Bishkek Getting Around

Getting Around

Kyrgyzstan's capital, like many places in the former Soviet Union, has an extensive network of minibuses, known as Marshrutkas. They typically have around 14 seats, with standing room for around ten extra people during busy periods. Marshrutkas are easily identifiable and display their number and basic route information (in Russian) on the front. To flag one down, simply hold out your right hand, parallel to the ground. Once you get on, pay the fare to the driver (typically five som; sometimes seven som for longer journeys). When you want to get off say, "asta naveetsa." Note that although there are bus stops Marshrutkas can be hailed anywhere and will drop you off at any point on their route. Bishkek also has a trolley bus system which is less extensive and generally slower. These only stop at designated bus stops. Travellers enter at the back door and leave at the front, paying the four som fare on the way out. As in Russia you may try to hail private cars who will easily, on negotiation, serve as taxis. Please do not antagonize taxi drivers and avoid boarding a taxi while intoxicated or under the influence of drugs. Drivers are generally decent folk but easily stirred to ire and even violence. Single women should under NO CIRCUMSTANCES board taxis at night.