Kyrgyzstan

There is a high rate of crime in this country, such as muggings, robbery, pickpocketing and kidnapping. Foreigners can be targeted, and the risk increases at night. Always be aware of your personal safety, security and surroundings. Keep money and valuables secured and out of sight. Safeguard your important documents, such as your passport. You are required to be in possession of your passport and visa at all times.

Drink spiking has occurred in this country with substances that can cause unconsciousness, brain injury, serious illness or even death. Do not accept drinks or food from strangers and never leave your drinks out of your sight.

Thieves sometimes target travellers at airports. Be very cautious of anyone who could be posing as police or unsolicited drivers at airports. If you are stopped, ask for official identification. Be cautious of anyone being overly friendly.

This is a conservative country with conservative expectations of behaviour and dress. Avoid public displays of affection as they may attract unwanted attention.

Although not illegal, same-sex relationship are not generally socially acceptable in Kyrgyzstan.

Women should exercise extra security precautions, particularly if travelling alone. A common practice is the kidnapping of local women for marriage.

There are severe penalties for drug use and possession, including long prison sentences.

If possible, always book official taxis through a telephone dispatch service, and negotiate the fee before your ride. Do not get into a taxi that has other passengers.

Avoid using public transportation due to poor safety standards.

Road travel outside urban city areas can be unsafe. Roads may be in poor condition, and not clearly marked. Service stations are not widely available in rural areas. Take all the supplies you will need with you. Local transportation vehicles may be poorly maintained and unsafe. There is zero tolerance for any blood alcohol level when driving.

The road between Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan, and Almaty, Kazakhstan, is particularly dangerous, and there are many traffic accidents on this road. Do not travel on this road after dark.

Anyone trekking in this country should be aware of possible landslides, avalanches and falling rock. Use a reputable agency for booking a trekking trip. Do not go alone. Ensure travel and medical insurance if purchased before departing and ensure your travel insurance policy covers outdoor adventure activities, including medical evacuation. Medical facilities and supplies are limited. Medical care in remote areas is basic.

There is a high risk of earthquakes in Kyrgyzstan. Avalanches and landslides are also common in mountainous regions.

Do not take photos of government or military installations.

Declare your medical prescriptions and supplies when you arrive in this country. Make sure you do not exceed legal limits for possession of prescription drugs.

Avoid travel to the Kyrgyz-Uzbek and Kyrgyz-Tajik border areas and the Ferghana Valley, including the cities of Osh, due to the unstable and unpredictable security situation. Armed clashes may occur, and borders may be closed without notice. Border patrols for all three countries, Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan and Tajikistan, conduct operations in the border areas. In some border areas, landmines are also a risk.

Sitata reminds travellers to minimize safety risk by avoiding public and political gatherings and demonstrations in any city since even peaceful protests can escalate quickly and unexpectedly.