Already thinking about the holidays? If you’re planning a ski trip in Kyrgyzstan, Northen part of Kyrgyzstan is the number one must-experience and must-go-to Suusamyr, Karakol, Jyrgalan places and thanks to its famous amounts of soft powder snow from December to March.
Before you book a flight, here are “7” things you should tick off your checklist first to ensure you have a fun, safe and enjoyable ski trip to Kyrgyzstan:
1. Book your winter Kyrgyzstan Early
Avoid all possible disappointments and book that tour as early as possible. Mid-December is usually the start of the ski season in Kyrgyzstan, especially Suusamyr valley because of the high altitude 3 000m above sea level. You can expect many ski-fanatics to jump in on every open booking. Oftentimes, most accommodations will be booked out as early as there are not so many places for a relevant overnight. The valley Suusamyr does not offer hotels or guest houses like in Karakol and Jyrgalan. There is only one Suus lodge ski touring complex offering overnights and some huts from the ski base Too-Ashuu with basic conditions.
2. Prep Up by Pumping Up the Iron
If you’re into sports and stay active even during the off-season, you can skip this and go straight to the next item on our list. Otherwise, you’d be wise to make sure you’re snow fit for the holidays. Prep up and hit the gym starting today. Skiing powder day after day is a real workout for the whole body, and especially your legs. Start building up your stamina and strength so you have the endurance to make the most of each day. Instead of being sore and tired on day three, you’ll have enough energy to enjoy your whole trip and be able to tell your friends how much fun you’ve had.
3. Check Your Gear
Make sure your gear is just as ready as you are. Give your board/skis some love and have them serviced professionally. Have the edges sharpened and the base waxed. Inspect your bindings thoroughly to make sure everything is in working order and avoid any unwanted surprises. Because you will not able to find reliable ski equipment shops or repairing centers in Kyrgyzstan at all. It is not available to find also spare parts or renting companies for freeride ski equipment.
4. Invest in Boots that Fit
You will be on your feet a lot, so make sure you have fitted and comfortable boots to wear.. Having your boots fitted professionally will ensure you avoid tightness and rubbing that can get in the way of enjoying your day. Some places you may have a horse to use for lifting and riding the horse to reach some mountain slopes. So, be ready to have a new experience to do horseback riding in Kyrgyzstan.
5. Don’t forget to Bring Sun Protection
Surprisingly, the sun can still be damaging even during wintertime. Pack appropriate sun protection and sunscreen for your skin and your lips. Sunscreen can also help to protect you against windburn and lip balm is your friend in the snow! Also, get a good pair of sunglasses or snow goggles with UV protection. Your eyes can take a beating after a day of looking out at glare, and this can also cause migraines. Make it a point to invest in a decent pair.
6. Don’t check the Weather Forecast
The weather in Kyrgyzstan is unpredictable and the temperature changes very quickly from -5 to -20. Sometimes, it doesn’t snow and other times, it snows too much. You need to be happy with what you get, it is out of your control. Just enjoy it and relax.
7. Get Travel Insurance
You never know when an accident can happen. If you don’t have insurance, you’re leaving yourself vulnerable. Winter weather can cause havoc with transportation, so make sure you find the best travel insurance suitable for you. Make sure to read the fine print carefully, and look for snow sports specific cover. You’ll also want to check you’re covered for travel mishaps such as flight delays or cancellations, as well as coverage to lost or damaged snow gear.
Start ticking off the list now before you hit that new adventure winter in Kyrgyzstan. If you don’t have a tour program booking yet, the Kyrgyz Tourism company is more than happy to assist you. Contact us on our hotline for a quote: +996 706 363738
If you’ve found this list useful, you should also take a look at our backcountry ski tour program “Backcountry ski tour in northern Kyrgyzstan”
