Is Central Asia on your Bucket List? It should be...
- Liv Tilley
- Jul 27, 2020
- 3 min read
Updated: Jul 31, 2020
Central Asia, "the 'stans", the Silk Road... The great unknown? Well, it doesn't have to be. The time I spent in this part of Asia was a game-changer for me, here are my top reasons why it could be for you too.
Visa restrictions have been eased in Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, and Uzbekistan meaning that it’s easier than ever before to enter these three countries. Check here to see if your country is included: For Kazakhstan; for Kyrgyzstan; for Uzbekistan.
The scenery is diverse and absolutely jaw-dropping. Think Teletubby Land on psychedelics meets the Garden of Eden. Mountains? Yes. Rivers? Check. Lakes? You bet. Vast steppe? That’s a yes. Desert? Yarp. Canyons? Aha. You get the idea.
Travelling on a budget is really easy. You’ll get a lot for your money, especially if you opt for the more authentic eateries and local transport.
Getting around isn’t as difficult as you might think. Renting a car is a popular option and granted does give you a bit more freedom but will set you back more pennies. Marshrutkas, night trains and hitchhiking are tried and tested methods of getting about - you’ll have the chance to meet the locals too.
The people are naturally curious and welcoming. Don’t be surprised if you’re invited to tea or even to stay the night. I even almost (or maybe did…) find myself married - this is more on the extreme scale but still, it counts.
There are some truly unusual foods to try. The truth is, the cuisine might not live up to the same expectations of countries like Italy and Japan, popular international favourites. However, there are some novel things to sample that you just can’t find anywhere else. Horsemeat, hearty plov, fermented mare’s milk (not for the fainthearted), and dairy products that defy the imagination are just some of the delicacies on offer.
The possibilities for adventures are probably endless. No matter your experience level there’ll be something for you. Day hikes or multi-day treks, lake swimming, canyon scrambling - there’s no shortage.
Horse riding? It probably doesn't get better than in Central Asia. If horse riding is your thing or you want to try it out then this is one of the most exciting regions to get in the saddle. With a rich history of equestrianism, you’ll be in safe hands with experienced instructors and guides. I still recommend going with a reputable company to ensure safety and that the horses are well cared for.
"What the what is that?". There are some really surprising buildings and landmarks that will leave you pondering just what was going through the architect’s mind. From traditional yurts to sci-fi inspired towers and even a modern pyramid that you can even go inside and explore, this is a place that’ll keep us guessing. "How many tiles did that take?", "Is that a giant vertical piano?", "Am I in space?", you have to see these beauties to believe them.
You might just have the place to yourself. I found that hardly any tourists visited some places and I often had places like these to myself. Quite the unique experience.
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