10 Incredible Things to Do in Kyrgyzstan with Kids!
- 1 day ago
- 7 min read
There’s something wildly magical about Kyrgyzstan. Maybe it’s the endless mountain ranges, the wild horses galloping across open fields, or the feeling that you’ve stumbled into a place the rest of the world somehow forgot about.
Travelling through Kyrgyzstan with kids was like stepping into another world. From sleeping in traditional yurts beneath star-filled skies to watching eagle hunters carry on centuries-old traditions, every day felt raw, beautiful and completely unexpected.
If you’re dreaming of an adventurous family destination that feels truly off the beaten path, here are our favourite things to do in Kyrgyzstan with kids.
Kyrgyzstan ended up becoming one of our favourite family adventures to date, and these were the experiences that made it so unforgettable.
1. Sleep in a Traditional Yurt
Sleeping in a traditional yurt was easily one of the highlights of our trip. The kids absolutely loved it!
There’s something so cosy and magical about stepping inside after a long day exploring the mountains. The colourful handmade rugs, the warmth of the stove, the wooden frames and soft blankets make it feel both rustic and comforting at the same time.
At night, the silence is incredible. You can step outside and look up at thousands of stars stretching across the sky with almost no light pollution anywhere around you.
For kids, it feels like a real adventure. For adults, it’s a chance to slow down and experience a way of life that has existed here for centuries.
2. Visit Song Kul Lake
Song-Kul was probably the biggest highlight of our entire trip.
This place honestly feels unreal.
The dramatic landscapes, the snow-covered mountains, the endless blue skies, the wandering horses and cows grazing beside the lake — it all feels incredibly peaceful and untouched.
The drive there alone is spectacular, winding through mountain passes and wide open valleys before suddenly revealing this enormous alpine lake sitting high above the world.
The kids loved simply running free here. There’s so much space to explore, throw rocks into the lake, watch animals wander past and breathe in the fresh mountain air.
It’s one of those rare places that feels both wild and calming at the same time.
3. Watch an Eagle Hunting Show
Watching a traditional eagle hunting demonstration was one of the most fascinating cultural experiences we had in Kyrgyzstan.
The connection between the hunters, the horses, the dogs and the golden eagles is something truly special to witness. These traditions have been passed down through generations and are still very much alive today.
The kids were completely captivated watching the enormous eagles soar through the air before returning to their handlers with incredible precision.
Beyond the performance itself, it’s also an educational experience that gives you insight into how nomadic families have survived in these harsh mountain environments over centuries.
It’s a beautiful way to learn about Kyrgyz culture while supporting local families keeping these traditions alive.
You can pre-book your eagle hunting experience here → Eagle Show
4. Hiking in Jyrgalan
Jyrgalan Valley is one of the most stunning places we visited in Kyrgyzstan.
Not far from Karakol, this remote mountain region feels wonderfully untouched. Huge green valleys stretch endlessly between dramatic mountain peaks, and in many places you’ll barely see another person.
There are beautiful family-friendly walks here leading to waterfalls, alpine meadows and panoramic viewpoints. It’s quiet, raw and unbelievably beautiful.
If your family enjoys hiking and nature, this place absolutely deserves a spot on your itinerary!
Here’s where we stayed...Jyrgalan Yurt Lodge
5. Stay at Tash Rabat
Tash Rabat felt incredibly sacred and special.
Nestled deep in the mountains not far from the Chinese border, this ancient stone caravanserai once welcomed Silk Road traders travelling through the region centuries ago.
The setting alone is breathtaking. Rolling hills surround the historic stone building while horses graze quietly nearby.
Staying overnight here allows you to really soak in the atmosphere, and gives you time to aclimitase to the high altitude. Tash Rabat is located at an elevation of roughly 3,200 to 3,500 meters (10,500 to 11,500 feet) above sea level.
It’s hard not to imagine what life must have been like for travellers crossing these remote mountain routes hundreds of years ago.
6. Go Horse Riding in Song Kul or Bokonbayevo
Horse riding is such an important part of Kyrgyz culture, so if you get the opportunity, definitely take it.
We don’t have much horseback riding experience ourselves, but riding through the open landscapes around Song Kul with a local guide ended up being one of our favourite memories.
Riding through rolling hills surrounded by mountains while wild horses gallop nearby feels like stepping into another world.
Bokonbayevo is another fantastic place to experience horse trekking and nomadic culture.
Even a short ride is a fun experience for kids.
We booked our horse ride through this yurt stay... Yurt Camp Ali-Nur, Lake Song-Kul
7. Explore Skazka Canyon
Skazka Canyon is unlike anywhere else in Kyrgyzstan.
Also known as “Fairytale Canyon,” the bright red rock formations create an incredible contrast against the snowy mountains and deep blue waters of Lake Issyk-Kul nearby.
The kids absolutely loved climbing through the winding rock formations and hiking along the famous “Dragon’s Back” trail.
The views at the top are spectacular and completely worth the climb.
8. Take an Epic Road Trip Through the Mountains
Road tripping through Kyrgyzstan is honestly an experience in itself.
Some days we spent hours simply staring out the window in complete awe as the scenery constantly changed around us.
One moment you’re driving beside enormous lakes, the next you’re winding through dramatic mountain passes or watching wild horses gallop across open plains.
The roads can be rough in places, but that’s all part of the adventure.
Travelling by road gives you the freedom to stop at tiny villages, roadside yurts, hidden viewpoints and places you would otherwise completely miss.
For us, the journey became just as special as the destinations themselves, and the kids say it was definitely one of their favourite memories,
9. Visit Jeti Oguz
The enormous red sandstone cliffs dramatically rise from the surrounding green valleys and are famously known as the “Seven Bulls.”
According to local legend, the rock formations resemble seven bulls standing side by side.
The contrast between the deep red cliffs and the surrounding alpine scenery is absolutely stunning.
It’s an easy stop from Karakol and a beautiful place for families to wander, have a picnic by the river and take in the incredible views.
10. Visit a Local Market
One of the best ways to experience everyday life in Kyrgyzstan is by visiting a local market.
The markets here are vibrant, chaotic and full of life.
You’ll find everything from fresh produce and spices to handmade goods, musical instruments, material and horses!
If you get the chance to visit an animal market where people are buying, selling and bartering horses, sheep and livestock, definitely go. It is fascinating and gives you a deeper glimpse into the country’s strong nomadic traditions and agricultural lifestyle.
The kids found these markets endlessly entertaining and there was always something new to see.
Travel Insurance for Kyrgyzstan
Kyrgyzstan is an adventurous destination filled with remote mountain roads, hiking trails and high-altitude landscapes, so having good travel insurance is really important.
We never travel without travel insurance, especially when visiting remote destinations like Kyrgyzstan.
Check our recommended travel insurance here →
FAQs About Visiting Kyrgyzstan with Kids
What are the best months to visit Kyrgyzstan?
The best time to visit is usually between June and September.
Summer brings warm weather, green landscapes and easier access to mountain regions like Song Kul and Tash Rabat, which are often inaccessible during winter due to snow.
July and August are particularly beautiful for yurt stays and mountain adventures. We visited in September.
How do you get around Kyrgyzstan?
The easiest way to explore Kyrgyzstan is by road trip.
You can:
hire a car
rent a 4WD
hire a private driver
use shared taxis between towns
For families, hiring a car or driver gives you the most flexibility and allows you to experience the country at your own pace. Some of our favourite memories came from simply driving through the mountains and stopping at unexpected viewpoints along the way.
Read our full guide to hiring a car and road tripping through Kyrgyzstan here → Everything you need to know about hiring a car in Kyrgyzstan
How many days do you need in Kyrgyzstan?
Ideally, at least 10–14 days.
The country is larger than many people expect, and the mountain roads can make travel slower.
Two weeks gives you enough time to explore places like:
Bishkek
Issyk-Kul
Karakol
Jyrgalan
Song Kul
Tash Rabat
without rushing.
What language do they speak in Kyrgyzstan?
The main languages spoken are Kyrgyz and Russian.
It’s helpful to learn a few simple Russian phrases and definitly download Google Translate to help - although your phone wont work in most of the country.
Where is Kyrgyzstan?
Kyrgyzstan is a mountainous country located in Central Asia.
It borders:
Kazakhstan
Uzbekistan
Tajikistan
China
What currency do they use?
The currency used is the Kyrgyzstani Som (KGS).
Cash is still used everywhere, so don't rely on your credit card. Also, change all your Kyrgyzstani Som before leaving the country - not many other countries will exchange it.
How do you get to Kyrgyzstan?
Most international travellers fly into Bishkek, the capital city.
Flights commonly connect through places like:
Istanbul
Dubai
Tashkent
Almaty
Depending on your route, overland travel from neighbouring countries is also possible.
We actually entered Kyrgyzstan overland from Kazakhstan during our Central Asia travels, which was very easy.
Read about our journey through Kazakhstan here → Almaty Travel Guide: Things to Do, Where to Stay & Day Trips
After Kyrgyzstan, we continued onwards to Uzbekistan on an overnight bus — another unforgettable experience through Central Asia.
Read about our overnight journey from Kyrgyzstan to Uzbekistan here → How to Take the Night Bus from Bishkek to Tashkent - Tickets, Border Crossings & Family Tips
Is Kyrgyzstan safe for families?
We found Kyrgyzstan to be incredibly welcoming and safe.
The people were kind, generous and very family-oriented.
As with any destination, road safety and remote mountain driving require caution, but overall we felt very comfortable travelling there with kids.
Do you need a visa for Kyrgyzstan?
Many nationalities, including Australians - can enter Kyrgyzstan visa-free for short stays, but visa requirements vary depending on your passport.
Always check the latest official government advice before travelling.
Kyrgyzstan left a mark on us in a way few places ever have. Long after leaving, we still find ourselves dreaming about the endless mountain roads, wild horses and peaceful yurt nights, surrounded by snow, beneath the stars.
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