Before the encounter
Good travel in Kyrgyzstan starts before the camera comes out. Customs, dress, hospitality, sacred places and family spaces can change by region and situation.
Our vision is to be the leading agency in connecting and uniting communities based on tourism in Central Asia
We aim to foster sustainable development in the tourism sector by raising awareness of ecotourism and agrotourism, promoting responsible travel practices, and creating programs that actively engage and benefit local communities.
When you travel with Nomad's Land, you embrace our travel philosophy. Whether you are our client, partner, guide, or colleague, this page informs you of our vision, mission, and policies for developing sustainable tourism.
In 2024, our commitment to sustainable tourism was recognized with Travelife certification. We invite you to explore more about our efforts by reading our articles on other pages of our website, including Eco-projects, Blogs, and Partners.
Our vision is to be the leading agency in connecting and uniting communities based on tourism in Central Asia. We aim to foster sustainable development in the tourism sector by raising awareness of ecotourism and agrotourism, promoting responsible travel practices, and creating programs that actively engage and benefit local communities.
Our mission is to engage and collaborate with local communities, ensuring their active participation and consent in our initiatives. We aim to return a fair share of profits to the local community, supporting their socio-economic development. We prioritize community involvement, conserve biodiversity, and promote environmental sustainability by minimizing non-renewable resource consumption. We respect traditional cultures and social structures, partnering with local ecotourism initiatives and promoting the training and empowerment of local guides to foster sustainable tourism practices.
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Our Policies & Commitments
Our Ethical Code
Legal compliance
Our Labor Policy
The following statement of principles and intentions represents the Policy of the employees of the LLC "Nomad's Land Asia" under the trademark "Nomad's Land".
Our Policy against Child Exploitation
Child Sexual Exploitation Policy
Nomad's Land Asia LLC is committed to protecting children who can be part of our supply chain.
Our Policy about Sustainable Accommodation
Sustainable Accommodation Policy
Our company strives to promote sustainable accommodation.
Our Policy about Excursions
Policy about Excursions
Our Policy about Tours Involving Animals
All animals should receive disease prevention and veterinary treatment, appropriate shelter, nutrition, and humane treatment.
Our Health and Safety Policy
Our first and single biggest objective is the reduction of risk to health and safety as far as is practically possible.
Code of Good Practice: Aircraft Activities
As part of our commitment to advancing sustainable tourism, we encourage our tourism partners to improve their sustainability performance by providing them with the guidance below.
Code of Good Practice: Backcountry & Snow Sports
As part of our commitment to advancing sustainable tourism, we encourage our tourism partners to improve their sustainability performance by providing them with the guidance below.
Code of Good Practice: Heritage Sites
As part of our commitment to advancing sustainable tourism, we encourage our tourism partners to improve their sustainability performance by providing them with the guidance below.
Code of Good Practice: Horse Riding & Pony Trekking
As part of our commitment to advancing sustainable tourism, we encourage our tourism partners to improve their sustainability performance by providing them with the guidance below.
Code of Good Practice: Mountain Biking
As part of our commitment to advancing sustainable tourism, we encourage our tourism partners to improve their sustainability performance by providing them with the guidance below.
Code of Good Practice: Non Motorised Boating
As part of our commitment to advancing sustainable tourism, we encourage our tourism partners to improve their sustainability performance by providing them with the guidance below.
Code of Good Practice: Spa & Massage Activities
As part of our commitment to advancing sustainable tourism, we encourage our tourism partners to improve their sustainability performance by providing them with the guidance below.
Code of Good Practice: Visiting Traditional / Rural Communities
As part of our commitment to advancing sustainable tourism, we encourage our tourism partners to improve their sustainability performance by providing them with the guidance below.
Code of Good Practice: Volunteer Tourism
As part of our commitment to advancing sustainable tourism, we encourage our tourism partners to improve their sustainability performance by providing them with the guidance below.
Code of Good Practice: Walking, Hiking & Trekking
As part of our commitment to advancing sustainable tourism, we encourage our tourism partners to improve their sustainability performance by providing them with the guidance below.
Code of Good Practice: Wildlife Viewing on Drive / Walks
As part of our commitment to advancing sustainable tourism, we encourage our tourism partners to improve their sustainability performance by providing them with the guidance below.
Samuel Maret: Founder Bio & Media Profile
Samuel Maret
Founder of Nomad’s Land
Sustainable Tourism Strategist – Specialist in Central Asia
Samuel Maret is the founder of Nomad’s Land and a sustainable tourism strategist specializing in Central Asia.
Description
Tourism becomes sustainable only when economic development, environmental protection and the well-being of local communities are designed together from the start.
Nomad’s Land Media Kit
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- Nomad’s Land logo
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Sustainable travel, mountain culture and Silk Road journeys in Central Asia
Calculate the CO₂ emissions for your flight!
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Calculate Your Flight Emissions and Support Our Local Projects
As a Travelife Certified ecotourism agency, Nomad's Land is committed to responsible travel that minimizes environmental impact while creating lasting benefits for local communities and nature in Central Asia. Flights are often an unavoidable part of your adventure, which is why we make it simple for you to understand their climate footprint. Using our trusted flight calculator, you can quickly calculate the CO₂ emissions of your journey in just a few clicks.
Once you know your emissions, we invite you to fully compensate them by joining Nomad's Land’s projects. Your voluntary contribution directly supports our initiatives that combine ecosystem protection with the development of sustainable ecotourism and the empowerment of poor communities. These projects help restore natural habitats, promote responsible tourism practices, and improve livelihoods for local families — allowing you to offset your flight’s impact while actively contributing to the very destinations and communities you visit with us.
News & Stories
Silk Road Sleep: Tash Rabat as a Night Narrative
By late afternoon on the Kyrgyz Nomad Trail, the trailhead dust is long behind you. Your pack has settled; your breath has found a rhythm. The valley narrows, the river runs colder, and the air smells of wet stone and wool.
The 8-Day “First Full Season” KNT Sampler
From Bishkek, you board a rattling minibus at dawn, your pack wedged between knees, a creased map tucked under the strap like an old habit.
The Anti-Overtourism Himalaya Alternative
Decongested Trekking in the Tien Shan — Kyrgyzstan’s Big-Mountain Reset
I’ve guided and designed treks across the Central Asia, and I’ve lived in Kyrgyzstan long enough to see fashions in adventure rise and fall like weather on a
Community-First Trail Economics
Morning in Bishkek begins with a stamp on your permit and a hot samsa from a corner bakery near the bazaar.
Pamiri's mazar
Pamiri mazars are small sacred sites found throughout the valleys of the Tajik and Afghan Pamirs, especially in the Wakhan.
Inside a Traditional Pamiri House
Tucked high in the mountains of eastern Tajikistan, along the rugged spine of the Pamir range, lies one of Central Asia’s most isolated and fascinating cultural landscapes.
My Beautiful Jailoo
The jailoo, much like the alpine pastures of the Alps, are fragile paradises that must be respected.
Nomad’s Land Featured in NatGeo: Explore the Epic Kyrgyz Nomad Trail
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Adventure awaits—and National Geographic just spotlighted the Kyrgyz Nomad Trail (KNT), the longest hiking route in Central Asia (1,243 miles and counting!), with Nomad’s Land named as a trusted ecotourism partner.
Dive into the full story here: "This is the longest hiking trail in Central Asia—here’s what to know before you try it"
Why This Matters
The KNT isn’t just a trail; it’s a transformative journey through Kyrgyzstan’s wildest landscapes—from the shimmering Ala-Köl lake to the ancient Silk Road caravanserai of Tash Rabat. By summer 2025, it’ll grow by another 621 miles, unlocking remote valleys like the Arpa and the soaring Pamir ranges.
As a KNT partner, we’re proud to:
- Design sustainable hikes that support local shepherds and mountain communities.
- Offer exclusive access to hidden gems (think: the Engilchek Glacier, the world’s 6th longest non-polar ice river!).
- Prioritize safety—the trail is carefully routed away from conflict zones, with recent border agreements reopening stunning routes near Batken.
Hiking here is a real and serious challenge. Be respectful, hike responsibly, think sustainable, and create positive impact.
— Yuval Yellin, KNT Co-Creator
Ready to Trek?
We craft custom adventures for every pace—whether you’re chasing a week-long section or a month-long odyssey. June–September is prime time, and we handle visas, border permits, and logistics so you can focus on the magic.
Read article about the Kyrgyz Nomad Trail KNT : Kyrgyz Nomad Trail: Connecting People and Nature in Kyrgyzstan
and our article about the partnership with the KNT : Nomad's Land Connect People and Nature with Kyrgyz Nomad Trail
Read more about the Kyrgyz Nomad Trail in international media, including National Geographic and The New York Times.
Nomad's Land Connect People and Nature with Kyrgyz Nomad Trail
- Assist in exploration, mapping and marking new sections of the trail by leveraging your experience in sustainable tourism development.
Description
Nomad's Land's objectives for the development of the ‘Kyrgyz Nomad Trail’ project, in line with its principles of sustainable tourism, are as follows:
Kyrgyz Nomad Trail: Connecting People and Nature in Kyrgyzstan
The following article explores the creation and vision of the Kyrgyz Nomad Trail (KNT), a transformative trail aimed at fostering sustainable tourism, cultural and Natural preservation across K
Ak-Cholmok National Game
One of the oldest games of the Kyrgyz. The game can be played anywhere. Boys and girls play together. Players are divided into divisions according to age, and referees are chosen for the game. Each territory has its own name.
Festival of nomadic games in Talas region
On August 3, an impressive Festival of Nomadic Games took place in Talas Oblast, bringing together participants and spectators from all corners of the country.
Towards Nomadic Land: A Documentary by Lucas Garceau Bédard
From meticulously planning their trip from A to Z, our protagonists quickly realize that even the best-laid plans can go awry.
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In 2018, Nomad's Land had the pleasure of supporting a group of young Canadian an extraordinary adventure captured in the film "Towards Nomadic Land." This cinematic journey takes us deep into the heart of Kyrgyzstan, where five young adventurers in their twenties embark on a tumultuous expedition of backcountry skiing and cultural exploration.
The Mongolian Altai Eagle Festival
Nestled in the village of Altai, within the Bayan-Ölgii Provin
The snow leopard is the national symbol of Kyrgyzstan
Enigmatic and graceful, the snow leopard (or irbis) is a symbol of survival and beauty in the harsh conditions of the mountain peaks.
Travelife Certified Sustainability Award
Amsterdam, 19th of February, 2024. The Travelife Certified award was received today by Nomad's Land Asia (Kyrgyzstan).
Our sustainability through Travelife
Description
Embarking on a journey towards sustainability is not just a commitment at Nomad's Land; it's a fundamental ethos that shapes our every action.
Toguz Korgool is a Kyrgyz folk game
The first records of this game were found in the Egyptian pyramids, about 7 thousand years old.
Trainings for tourist facilities of Zheti Oguz district 2023
Description
On November 25-26, 2023 trainings were held in Kyzyl Suu for our owners of homestays and yurt camp from whole district Jeti Oguz
The main objective was to increase the potential of the district's tourist facilities in order to ensure the criteria of sustainable tourism and promotion of the region.
"Ordo" - Kyrgyz national game
Ordo is one of the most widespread games of the Kyrgyz people, which has survived from ancient times to the present day. The word "ordo" itself means "Khan's stake, khan's palace".
History of the Kyrgyz saddle
Kyrgyzstan prides itself on having preserved not only its authentic breed of horses. There are also craftsmen who know the secret of how to make an authentic Kyrgyz saddle.
Things you should know about a Kyrgyz wedding
Wedding rituals are part of the Kyrgyz culture, having a significant traditional component, which has absorbed many changes over the past decades.
Uzbekistan: 5 Unmissable Tourist Ideas
Uzbekistan is a magical country with a rich history, beautiful nature, and warm-hearted inhabitants. It is brimming with incredible places and experiences awaiting tourists.
Khumiy throat singing
Khumiy throat singing is a distinctive art form exclusive to select nationalities, including Mongols, Buryats, Kalmyks, Tuvans, Altaians, and Bashkirs.
The surprising properties of camel wool
The most interesting thing about a camel is its two humps, covered with a thick layer of thick hair. It is a reliable protection against temperature fluctuations, strong and cold winds, and dust and sand storms.
Cold desert under the shadow of rains - Gobi
The Gobi Desert is the sixth largest desert in the world and the second largest in Asia.
Ak Kalpak - heritage of the Kyrgyz people
Ak Kalpak (kalpak) - men's national headdress of the Kyrgyz, symbolizes mountains and purity and carries the heritage of ancestors and national philosophy.
Top 13 dishes of Kyrgyzstan that everyone should try.
Kyrgyzstan is known for its indescribably beautiful, breathtaking nature. During visiting Kyrgyzstan try the equally magical cuisine of the Kyrgyz people.
The history of the komuz
Music, songs, poems and stories passed down from generation to generation in the form of oral traditions reveal the life of the Kyrgyz people, their aspirations and experiences, happiness and joy, life and death.
Teskei Geopark in Issyk Kul region
Description
By working together, Nomad's Land and Geopark Teskei can create a synergistic relationship that promotes sustainable tourism, conserves natural and cultural heritage, and benefits both the local communities and visitors. This collaboration allows for a responsible and enriching tourism experience while supporting the long-term preservation of the Geopark's unique features.
"The Valley of Balls" - the unsolved mystery of Mangistau
"The Valley of Spheres" in Mangistau, Kazakhstan, remains one of the most mysterious and little-studied archaeological finds in the world.
Top 5 places to visit in Termez
Termez is a city in the center of Surkhandarya province in southern Uzbekistan, located on the right bank of the Amu Darya River, where it flows into the Surkhandarya River.
China reopens its borders with Kyrgyzstan
While the Irkeshtam border crossing was already open a few days ago, the Torugart border pass is now also open to tourists.
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China reopens Torugart and Irkeshtam border crossings
Turkmenistan reopens its borders
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We are pleased to announce that the borders of Turkmenistan are open to tourists. The State Migration Authority of Turkmenistan has started accepting applications from us for invitations for our guests. The procedure for obtaining a visa remains practically the same, except for some innovations.
Peak Skobelev
Skobelev Peak (Skobolev) is located at 5051 meters above sea level. It is definitely the highest peak in the Alayski Range. Access is easy from Suu Kashka Valley, and the ascent is technically not difficult.
Alaman Ulak, an ancient national Kyrgyz game
Alaman Ulak is one of the ancient national Kyrgyz games, there are no uniform rules for the competition.
Tushoo kesuu - rite of cutting the bonds
Tushoo kesuu is one of the most ancient Kyrgyz family traditions that has survived to this day. Tushoo kesuu is performed when a child turns one year old, when he starts taking his first steps.
Snow Report Kyrgyzstan - www.snowreport.kg
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As part of winter tourism development projects, we have implemented a new presentation tool for ski resorts in Kyrgyzstan and avalanche risk prevention.
Stay informed and safe with real-time snow reports and updated information on ski resorts, accommodations, opening hours, prices, ski lift facilities and avalanche risks in Kyrgyzstan.
The Juku valley
The Juku Gorge (Jukku, Zhuuku or Zaouka) is the longest gorge in the Terskei AlaToo range, famous for its varied nature, its beautiful views and its vast expanse.
1000 km of Unknown
Discover Kyrgyzstan in traveler mode from 1900. Alexis Lopez goes on the trail of Ella Maillart and tells us the first part of his adventure.
Chaïkhana Kori Navruz Palace, the world's biggest tea house
Still little known outside Tajikistan, the new Chaikhana of Dushanbe is a huge luxurious complex 120 meters wide and long. "chaikhana" translates from Persian to "tea house".
Nuts from Arslanbob
Arslanbob (Kyrgyz: Арстанбап; Russian: Арсланбоб; Uzbek: Arslanbob) is a village, valley, mountain range, and a large wild walnut forest in the Jalal-Abad Region of Kyrgyzstan.
All restrictions related to the coronavirus pandemic have been lifted for all arriving in Uzbekistan
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According to the decision of the Republican Special Commission, from June 10, 2022, temporary restrictions related to the coronavirus will be lifted on entering Uzbekistan by air, border stations and border checkpoints.
In this regard, the rules requiring foreign tourists to provide a negative PCR test result for coronavirus, a rapid test for coronavirus antigens and a vaccination certificate or passport are canceled.
The commission took into account the dynamics of the spread of the coronavirus in Uzbekistan, the number of hospitalized and discharged patients, a positive development in the number of citizens quarantined, as well as the epidemiological situation in the country, WHO recommendations and the Ministry of Tourism and Cultural Heritage.
Street art in art: The most famous works and the best representatives of style
Street arteries can be compared to futurists who created new art by protesting propaganda and academism. Street artists also blur the lines between professional and non-professional art.
Where’s a good bite?
French film crew prepares documentary about fishing in Uzbekistan.
Behind the scenes of the documentary "Gerard Depardieu: My Uzbek Dream"
After the documentary "Gerard Depardieu : My Uzbek Dream" was shoot, Arnaud Frilley reveals Uzbekistan, which fascinates with the beauty of its landscapes and cultural richness.
Uzbekistan opens for foreign tourists from March 16!
Description
In order to restore tourist flows with foreign countries as soon as possible, according to the decision of the Republican Commission, from March 16, 2022 in Uzbekistan:
* If you have passports/vaccination certificates for coronavirus infection, all persons are allowed to enter without PCR tests. In case of not having passports/ vaccination certificates, a person must have negative PCR test (with an electronic QR code), for a period of no more than 72 hours, or go to express tests when crossing the border or upon arrival on the territory of the Republic of Uzbekistan.
* All restrictions on the free passage of citizens of the Republic of Kazakhstan and citizens of the Republic of Uzbekistan through all land checkpoints on the border of the Republic of Uzbekistan with the Republic of Kazakhstan are lifted;
* Temporary restrictions for crossing the checkpoints on the border of the Republic of Uzbekistan with the Republic of Tajikistan are lifted. Measures are being taken to reopen all border crossing points.
The system of issuing electronic visas (E – VISA) for foreign citizens is also being resumed.
Link of the original article: https://t.me/uzbektourismofficial
Fully vaccinated travellers don't have to quarantine upon arrival in Nepal
- On-Arrival Visa Service and No Quarantine rule applies only to the Fully Vaccinated Travelers.
Description
Nepal is reopening its borders to tourists from all over the world. Here you will find all the information you need to enter the country.
Safe travels with Nomad's Land
In May 2021 the Kyrgyz Association of Tour Operators was officially approved by the World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC) to represent and confer the “SafeTrav
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For the safety of our customers, we are pleased to announce that we have received the Safe Travels stamp by the Association of Kyrgyz Tour Operators.
Turkish Airlines: Istanbul - Bishkek up to 3 times a day
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Turkish Airlines is operating twice a day on Bishkek Manas International airport. And 3 times a day on Thursday and Sunday.
Beyond the Glacier, a short film over the water in Central Asia
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Conflicts over water in Central Asia are at the heart of the short film Beyond the Glacier, directed by David Rodríguez Muñiz in 2019. An interesting documentary that takes the form of a journey, from the glaciers of Kyrgyzstan to the sea of Kyrgyzstan. Aral.
Petroglyphs, mirror of the peoples of Central Asia
Long neglected by scientists, the study of rock art represents a direct gateway to the imagination of peoples who have lived across the vast natural expanses of Kyrgyzstan and Kazakhstan.
Top 10 things to do in Karakol, Kyrgyzstan
Karakol is a great base camp for day tours or multi-day tours in the mountains near by. The trekking and horseback riding possibilities are limitless and it’s still possible to find places that are untouched by large tour groups.
Best Trekking Spots in Kyrgyzstan: Self-Guided Treks, Peaks, Remote Treks etc
Self-Guided Treks in Kyrgyzstan
My Top 10 Reasons to Come to Kyrgyzstan
My name is Alex and I have been working and living here in Kyrgyzstan since 2014 and I would like to welcome you to my 2nd home Kyrgyzstan. Enjoy my top 10 reasons to come to Kyrgyzstan!
Tash-Rabat to Chatyr Kol
This is a great hike from Tash Rabat to Chatyr Kol. It's long, so if you are taking camping equipment, you would probably want to do this in two days. There is a yurt camp at the end of the hike, so you can do this with a day pack.
Turkish Airlines: Istanbul - Bishkek 2 times per day
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Turkish Airlines is operating twice a day on Bishkek Manas International airport.
Snowy winter on Teskei range
Nestled within the heart of Central Asia, the Tien Shan Range stands as a majestic testament to nature's grandeur.
New tourism visa regulations in Kyrgyzstan
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Since 24th of July 2012, 44 new countries have been added in the Kyrgyz list of countries with non-visa regime for tourism purpose up to 60 days. European, US & Canadian countries are part of this list.
Discover Kyrgyzstan: A Video by Nomad's Land and Alpage Productions
In a little bit more than 4 minutes, you will have a glimpse of the real Kyrgyz nomadic lifestyle, the road to the incredibly beautiful Song Kul's lake, a woman milking the horses, get pulled by the perfect simplicity of the yurts, and t
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We are excited to share this amazing short movie made by Pierre-Armand Dussex (Alpage Productions) during his last visit in Kyrgyzstan this summer.
About nomadsland.ch site update
If the design changes are now almost done, we are exited about several awesome new features which are on the way.
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As you may have noticed, our website is currently going through a serious update.
Your feedback is very important for us
If you noticed something during your trip that did not comply with our policies, or if you have any questions, please contact our sustainability manager: office@nomadsland.travel.
Codes of Good Practice
Before the encounter
Good travel in Afghanistan starts before the camera comes out. Customs, dress, hospitality, sacred places and family spaces can change by region and situation.
Before the encounter
Good travel in Xinjiang (China) starts before the camera comes out. Customs, dress, hospitality, sacred places and family spaces can change by region and situation.
Before the encounter
Good travel in Kazakhstan starts before the camera comes out. Customs, dress, hospitality, sacred places and family spaces can change by region and situation.
Before the encounter
Good travel in Mongolia starts before the camera comes out. Customs, dress, hospitality, sacred places and family spaces can change by region and situation.
Before the encounter
Good travel in Nepal starts before the camera comes out. Customs, dress, hospitality, sacred places and family spaces can change by region and situation.
Before the encounter
Good travel in Pakistan starts before the camera comes out. Customs, dress, hospitality, sacred places and family spaces can change by region and situation.
Before the encounter
Good travel in Tajikistan starts before the camera comes out. Customs, dress, hospitality, sacred places and family spaces can change by region and situation.
Before the encounter
Good travel in Turkmenistan starts before the camera comes out. Customs, dress, hospitality, sacred places and family spaces can change by region and situation.
Before the encounter
Good travel in Kyrgyzstan starts before the camera comes out. Customs, dress, hospitality, sacred places and family spaces can change by region and situation.
Before the encounter
Good travel in Mongolia starts before the camera comes out. Customs, dress, hospitality, sacred places and family spaces can change by region and situation.
Before you travel
This page is preparation, not alarm. Health and safety in Kyrgyzstan depend on the route, season, altitude, remoteness, transport and your own medical situation.
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