You Can Travel to Kyrgyzstan. But Let’s Choose Safe Areas

Kyrgyzstan is a country in Central Asia. It was once a socialist state belonging to the former Soviet Union, known as Kirghizia. The safety in Kyrgyzstan is affected by both domestic and international situations, so there are relatively clear differences between safe and unsafe regions. Even in areas that are considered safe, there are some points to be careful about. As long as you do not forget these precautions, the security is sufficient to enjoy your travels.

1. The Northeast is a Region Suitable for Travel

Kyrgyzstan is an east–west elongated country, with Kazakhstan to the north and China's Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region to the east. These two neighboring countries are relatively stable, so even within Kyrgyzstan, the northern region maintains a level of safety that makes travel enjoyable. The capital Bishkek and Issyk-Kul are located in this northern part. In this area, if you simply keep in mind the usual precautions for overseas travel, you will not feel too much of the insecurity.

However, Kyrgyzstan's political situation is still influenced by Russia, and there are economically unstable areas. In 2010, a large-scale anti-government movement broke out in the capital Bishkek. There remains a possibility that security may become disrupted temporarily in the future.

2. The Southwest is a Region Best Avoided

Kyrgyzstan borders Tajikistan to the south and Uzbekistan to the west, and to the southwest is Afghanistan. Even within Kyrgyzstan, the southwestern regions are less safe. Particularly near the southwestern border, drug trafficking routes for criminal organizations are active, and many incidents have been reported. There are troubles between armed groups with firearms, so the security situation is not suitable for travel.

In addition, the activities of Islamist extremists, which are prevalent in Afghanistan and Iraq, can also have an impact here. While traveling in Kyrgyzstan, please pay attention to the latest security information.

3. Beware of Group Pickpocketing

The domestic economy in Kyrgyzstan has been in a poor state for some time. As a result, the number of unemployed and impoverished people has increased, and crime has become a security issue. Particularly common is the crime of pickpocketing. Although pickpocketing occurs even in relatively safe countries, in Kyrgyzstan it is notable that these crimes are often committed by groups.

In crowded places such as buses or markets, groups of several people target individuals, surrounding them to snatch away their belongings so they cannot escape. Victims may even feel endangered, and the act can be closer to mugging or robbery rather than mere pickpocketing. If you see any suspicious groups, leave the area quickly.

4. It Is Better Not to Stand Out as a Traveler

The northern and urban areas of Kyrgyzstan are relatively safe, and while you should be cautious of pickpocketing and bag snatching, violent crimes such as robbery or kidnapping are not very common. However, it is true that foreign travelers are mainly targeted for pickpocketing and bag snatching. Even in safe urban areas, be very careful with your luggage and valuables.

Also, if you wear clothing or flashy accessories that immediately mark you as a foreigner, you are more likely to be targeted. Even in safe city areas, avoid spreading out a large map; if possible, use locally purchased clothes or bags so that you do not stand out as a foreign traveler.

5. Watch Out for Police Scams

Kyrgyzstan, like other former Soviet countries in Central Asia, is known for having a large number of police officers. However, these officers can also contribute to making the security situation worse. There are many reports of police stopping travelers, asking to inspect belongings and then seizing valuables, or finding excuses to check visas and extort money.

Such incidents occur as frequently as pickpocketing, so please be very cautious. Even if a police officer stops you, you are not obliged to show anything other than your passport, so firmly refuse if necessary.

6. Avoid Being Out at Night as Much as Possible

Kyrgyzstan was originally part of the Silk Road grasslands and has long been home to nomadic peoples. As a result, even in cities, the population density is not high, and the streets and squares are spacious. To a Japanese person, these areas may feel very empty. While low population does not necessarily mean poor security, fewer people are around at night, so it is better not to be out late.

Furthermore, since many people in Kyrgyzstan are Muslims, there are many taboos regarding interactions between men and women. Some men mistakenly believe that foreign women can behave more freely, so female travelers, in particular, should be cautious about safety at night.

◎ Summary

Kyrgyzstan is basically a safe country, so you can enjoy your travels. However, the domestic security is also affected by international situations, particularly the activities of Islamist extremists. Although the major domestic political unrest in Kyrgyzstan has subsided, some instability still remains. Even while traveling, always gather information and be alert to ensure that unavoidable troubles do not occur.

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You Can Travel to Kyrgyzstan. But Let’s Choose Safe Areas