KYRGYZSTAN HIGHLIGHTS

Motorcycle 
During this trip, you will ride Yamaha XT 600 cc motorcycles. 
 

Difficulty of the journey 
A combination of factors can make this journey tough. First, there are the dirt roads combined with the 600cc engine. And secondly, the simple accommodation in different places. But off-road technically, this journey is not very complicated. 
 

Off Road & Distances 
About half of the route involves riding on unpaved roads. These are typically well-trodden gravel paths, but due to the rainy season, they can become quite challenging. Always exercise caution, especially on sharp bends. The high passes in this area are only open during the summer months; in other seasons, they are too snow-covered. During the summer, melting snow can flow over the roads, creating streams that may be harmless or potentially cause significant landslides. In such cases, you may need to find an alternative route, such as a short detour or even a river crossing with your motorbike. Flexibility is therefore an essential quality to bring on this trip. 
 

Overnight stays 
Kyrgyzstan is a sparsely populated country, with most of its inhabitants residing in a few larger cities. Consequently, along the way, you will typically find only basic guesthouses. Occasionally, we stay in homestays, where we live in people’s homes. We also spend a few nights in traditional Ger-Yurt tents. While these accommodations are quite simple, they offer a unique opportunity to connect directly with the local population. 

Climate 
We ride through two different climate zones. In the relative lowlands of Kyrgyzstan, it is dry and warm. During the day it is very hot but after sunset, it will cool down very quickly and become quite cold. 

Clothing 
Mandatories are a helmet, a warm motorcycle jacket with protective gloves, good sturdy motorcycle pants with protection, and sturdy high (mountain) shoes. Due to the large temperature differences, it can be useful to wear a motorcycle jacket with a removable lining. In colder parts of the mountains, you can also wear extra clothing under your jacket if necessary. Because you experience very hot, but also cold days, it is best to bring both summer gloves and winter gloves. Furthermore, a good pair of sunglasses is useful, and a helmet with a visor that protects against dust. If your motorcycle clothing is not waterproof, it is advisable to bring a separate rain suit. 

Pocket money and money matters 
In the city of arrival Osh, you can exchange cash at various places. It is also increasingly possible to withdraw money from an ATM locally.  

Visa 
A Visa is required since it is no longer needed for Kyrgyzstan. You will be permitted at the airport upon arrival to stay in the country for 60 days. More details about the trip and what to bring with you can be found in the travel handbook that you will receive about a month before departure.