My trip to Kyrgyzstan.

Kyrgyzstan is a former Soviet republic, most of whose territory lies in the mountains. Now the country has fully opened up to tourists and has lifted all restrictions on entry, testing and vaccines. Also, most countries, including Germany, do not require a visa. I traveled in spring 2022 and was very impressed by the country, nature and people.

The capital is Bishkek with a population of about 1 million people. The city is very green, the Soviet architecture has mostly been preserved. Mountain peaks are visible from many points. Already in the vicinity of Bishkek there are a lot of interesting things! The Ala Archa gorge, for example, is only 45 kilometers away, these are real high mountains! And in spring in May you can find poppy fields of amazing beauty!

The largest lake in Kyrgyzstan - Issyk-Kul is also called the brother of Lake Baikal. The water in the lake is just as cold and clean but slightly brackish, while in Lake Baikal it is fresh. Issyk-Kul is surrounded by mountains over 3500 meters high. But there are higher mountains in Kyrgyzstan! For example, the height of Pobeda peak is 7439 m!

In the surroundings of Issyk-Kul numerous canyons and valleys are worth visiting. The diversity of nature is amazing. Some of them are dry and loamy and look like the desert landscapes of Arizona in the USA, others are green and very similar to the Alps. I have visited 8 valleys and gorges of Kyrgyzstan and each one is beautiful and unique in its own way.

Some canyons can be traveled by car, others can be crossed on foot - trekking is easy without climbing. After hiking we rested in hot springs. I have to say that I had health problems, but after clean air, mountain hikes and mineral baths, I completely recovered.

The kind and friendliness of the people left me with a great desire to return here more than once. I invite you to visit this wonderful hospitable country with me!