This section is dedicated to take away all your "I wish someone had told me that before I went!" experiences. This way, you can spend less time settling in, and more time making new friends in your chosen hostel. We share our insider knowledge of tips, tricks and important things to look out for in Bokonbayevo.
Bokonbayevo, Kyrgyzstan, is a small village in the country, but the largest on the south shore of Issyk Kul, the second-largest alpine lake in the world. Many Russians and citizens from Central Asian countries spend their holidays near Issyk Kul. The lake’s north shore is where most resorts are located, in particularly in Cholpon Ata. Here you'll find nice sandy beaches, plus most nightlife and water sports activities. The south shore, on the other hand, attracts the more adventurous travelers. The latter is also the case with Bokonbayevo.
Some of the activities can be easily visited on a day trip or for a few hours from Bokonbayevo, such as Skazka Canyon (fairytale canyon) and Barskoon waterfall. Both sides are incredibly stunning and are must-visits when you are in the region. Bokonbayevo, Kyrgyzstan, is also the starting point of treks in the region, which can vary from one to several days. Gear can be rented in town or possibly through your Bokonbayevo, Kyrgyzstan hostel, if necessary.
While Bokonbayevo is a great starting point for hikes and treks in summer, in winter it is a good base for winter sports. The mountains in the region are becoming increasingly popular as a skiing destination among foreigners. In summer, most guests at Bokonbayevo, Kyrgyzstan hostels are from non CIS-countries, but the majority of Bokonbayevo, Kyrgyzstan hostel guests in winter still come from Central Asian countries.
There are hostels in Bokonbayevo, Kyrgyzstan, but they are not always called a hostel. More often, Bokonbayevo, Kyrgyzstan hostels call themselves guesthouses, offering both dorms and private rooms. Dorms are not always inside a "regular" building, but could be inside a yurt, which is best explained as a traditional but comfortable Central Asian tent. If you are traveling in winter and your preferred accommodation is a tent, you may want to reconsider, if it is open for bookings at all.
Written by local enthusiast for Bokonbayevo hostels
Martin Straatman
