The unofficial guide to Kyrgyz Republic based on 8 Volunteers' experiences

Volunteers provide a glimpse of what it's like to serve in Kyrgyz Republic, also known as Kyrgyzstan.

Training and support

If you accept an invite to serve for two years in the Kyrgyz Republic, you'll complete a three-month-long pre-service training that's designed to help you transition to the role of a Volunteer.

Maaike G. (2024-2026) shared how she was prepared for her new life overseas: "We had trainings every day on topics like safety, health, culture, and language. After our orientation, we packed up and went to our host family matching ceremony, where we met the kind Kyrgyz families who would be taking care of us for the next 10 weeks during pre-service training, and before we move to our permanent sites."

Want to get to know one of the incredible staff members who prepare Volunteer sites and provide ongoing support? Meet regional manager Almaz Asanov.

Empowering generations to come

Volunteers primarily support Education projects in Kyrgyz Republic, specifically collaborating with public school teachers like Umut. Through secondary projects, like afterschool clubs or teacher training, Volunteers can maximize their sustainable impact.

"I teach grades 5-11 alongside two English teachers. We have over 280 students, so I'm at a smaller school compared to other Volunteers. We are in a rural village located in the Ak-Talaa district in the center of the country. Besides my day-to-day English teaching, I actively participate in my students' volleyball and football training," said Jacob L. (2023-2025).

"In my spare time, I also work with the school administration to write grants to support our work. To date, we've secured new textbooks to support communicative methodologies, and we've opened a computer-based language lab to help students develop their listening and speaking skills," said John M. (2019-2020; 2022-2024).

Starting in 2024, Response Volunteers have been assigned to support eco-tourism projects that develop local tourism while carefully considering environmental conservation. These short-term, in-person specialist Volunteers undergo two weeks of concentrated training, which covers language and cross-cultural competence.

Learn more about Volunteer projects in Kyrgyz Republic.

Tips for integration

Effort goes a long way in terms of transforming Volunteers into valued community members. Consistently trying to speak the language will not only surprise and delight locals, but it also demonstrates a keen interest in belonging. There are plenty of non-verbal ways to connect and establish roots in your new home. Reliably showing up for others-whether that's to support your counterpart grading papers or a neighbor working in their garden-speaks volumes about your intentions.

"Language exchange and cooking have been great for integration. Informally, teaching each other our languages creates opportunities to connect. I also participate in formal language exchanges that allow me to regularly meet with friends, learn, and have equal relationships with others. Cooking and exchanging recipes has been a great way to connect with my host family," said Jenny T. (2022-2024).

"The main strategy I have used to integrate into my community is just trying to always be friendly and approachable. Even if I can't express myself with words, I can use my facial expressions and maintain an open and friendly attitude, which has helped me make connections in my community and has facilitated my integration," said Katherine H. (2024-2026).

"I think what helped my integration most of all was building rapport with students. From the start I took time every day and walked the halls of my schools to interact with my students, and visited them in their classrooms between classes," said David E. (2022-2024).

What to pack

Modest apparel in muted hues will help Volunteers fit in with the country's cultural expectations. Males typically wear trousers, a collared shirt, and a blazer while females wear midi-length skirts or trousers with tops that cover the shoulders and chest. Trainees are expected to adhere to the conservative dress code during pre-service training. Be sure to pack a swimsuit if you wish to enjoy the second largest alpine lake in the world, Lake Issyk-Kul, during time off. Post will provide Volunteers with items, such as a basic smartphone, power bank, and Yak-Tracks.

Other items to consider:

• A deck of playing cards
• Hiking boots
• A three-month supply of any approved prescriptions

See our complete packing guidance for Kyrgyz Republic.

Enduring dedication to Kyrgyz people

Ask any Volunteer what made their service memorable and most often than not they'll respond with "the people." In Kyrgyz Republic, it's not uncommon for a stranger to invite you to enjoy a cup of tea or jarma, a traditional drink crafted from crushed wheat. The kindness shown to Volunteers-often at times when they feel vulnerable or alone-inspire many to serve again.

After Brian M. served as a traditional, two-year Volunteer (2018-2020), he returned as a Response Volunteer (2024-2025): "My interest in returning to the country stemmed from the meaningful connections and shared experiences I forged during my initial service. Witnessing the incredible natural beauty of the country, as well as the hospitality and welcoming nature of Kyrgyz communities, inspired me to pursue the Response position and continue collaborating on projects that have the potential to support the growth of the tourism industry in sustainable and environmentally responsible ways."

Pamela L. followed her Volunteer service in country (2019-2020) by collaborating online with a Kyrgyz school through Peace Corps' Virtual Service (2021-2022): "With Virtual Service, I've appreciated that I can reach so many teachers and meet people whom I otherwise wouldn't be able to. I appreciate that my counterpart, the participants, and I can collaborate on creating lesson plans and presentations that will benefit them and directly address their particular needs."

Visit the National Peace Corps Association website to connect with other Volunteers who served in Kyrgyz Republic.

Want to serve as a Peace Corps Volunteer? Connect with a recruiter and explore opportunities here.