Accommodation in
Kyrgyzstan,
Central Asia
The Kyrgyz are historically a nomadic people, a point best displayed on the high alpine grasslands of the interior. During June, July, August and early September many families head for the hills, taking their flocks to the best pastures available over the summer months. The remoteness of these pastures means there is no infrastructure, save what the families bring with them. One item that every family will bring is a yurt - a felt tent, sometimes elaborately decorated - that acts as the family living quarters. Staying in a yurt is a special experience and affords the visitor a privileged view of Central Asian life. It also allows you to experience some stupendous scenery, as many of the yurts are high up in the mountains, where visibility is best early in the day. If you're very lucky (or unlucky, depending on your point of view) you can try fermented mare's milk, a traditional summer drink on the grasslands. All yurt stays are basic, by their nature, though well worth it for the insight they afford. Bedding is included, as are all meals.