Mountain bike rental in Kyrgyzstan, Bishkek

Cycling in Kyrgyzstan

A trip to Kyrgyzstan by bicycle is a unique experience not to be missed. Discover the warm hospitality of the Kyrgyz people and the breathtaking scenery that abounds in the country. You’ll have the chance to camp in a tent under a starry sky, or sleep by the stove in a traditional Kyrgyz yurt. After breakfast, you’ll set off to discover the hidden treasures of the Silk Road and enjoy spectacular views of the region’s pastures and gorges. You don’t need a visa to enter Kyrgyzstan, and can stay in the country for up to two months.

Road conditions: what type of bike should I use?

Kyrgyzstan is a very mountainous country. Apart from the main roads linking the main towns (Bishkek, Kochkor, Karakol, Osh), you’ll be driving on mountain trails whose condition varies greatly. Mud, rockslides, sand and fords are not uncommon. A mountain bike or gravel bike is therefore essential if you wish to discover the more authentic regions of Kyrgyzstan.

Even if they are asphalted, we recommend that youavoid driving on main roads where traffic is dangerous (many trucks, no bicycle lanes, etc.). It’s better to put the bike in a minivan or to hitchhike on these stretches, to have more time in the wilderness where you’ll be alone on the trails!

It’s worth noting that cycling in Kyrgyzstan can be difficult due to the steep gradients and poor road conditions, even for the fittest adventurer. But nothing is impossible with a minimum of training and a good bike!

It’s worth noting that the rental offer is not very developed, but the bikes are generally of good quality and adapted to the terrain.

The best cycling tours in Kyrgyzstan

Before setting off to explore the Kyrgyz mountains, we recommend you consult our EXPLORE KYRGYSTAN guide: a compendium of the country’s most beautiful trails, with over 50 sites of cultural and natural interest to visit. All altitude profiles and difficulties are detailed on high-resolution satellite maps. For those who prefer, the book is also available in ebook format, where you can also download the GPS tracks.

If you’re an experienced cyclist, then we recommend exploring the Celestial Mountains, Lake Son Kol or Lake Kol Suu. You’ll cross mountain passes at altitudes of over 3,000m in a landscape of rock and ice, devoid of vegetation. Then you’ll head off along wide, green valleys where a few shepherds live with their herds of horses and yaks. An opportunity to discover nomadic life in the pastures and taste Kyrgyz specialties in a traditional yurt.

If you prefer an easier tour, with a road bike or electric bike, we recommend you visit the capital Bishkek and let yourself be carried away by the atmosphere of the central Ala Too square or the Osh bazaar. If you’re more into nature, then you can take a trip around Lake Issyk Kul, with spectacular mountain views.

Please note that some border regions of Kyrgyzstan require a border permit, which you can order online here.

How much does it cost to rent a bike in Kyrgyzstan?

There are many possibilities for bike hire in Kyrgyzstan, from day trips with a guide to multi-day trips with or without assistance.

You’ll find rental agencies in Bishkek, Osh, Jirgalan, Karakol, Talas and Naryn. If you have a car, don’t hesitate to stop off in one of these towns, rent a mountain bike and set off on one of the trails in the book EXPLORE KYRGYZSTAN!

You can rent a road bike or mountain bike from €15 per day. For an electric bike, allow a minimum of €40 per day. Rates are often on a sliding scale depending on the rental period. Camping equipment costs at least €10 per day.

Bicycle rental in Bishkek

The biggest rental agencies are in Bishkek. Bikes are generally equipped with rear racks and are fully prepared for long-distance travel. Rental companies can supply you with a pump, repair kit, spare chain, pedals, brakes, etc.