Common Scams & How to Avoid Them in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan

All Topics about Bishkek All Cities in Kyrgyzstan

1. Taxi Scams

Avoid overpriced or unofficial taxi services. Always use Yandex Taxi or Bison official apps.

Unfair Pricing: Some drivers may charge more than the app price
Unofficial Taxis: Unofficial taxis may not have meters or may refuse to use the app
Language Barrier: Communication difficulties may lead to misunderstandings about price

Be cautious when receiving change or exchanging money. Check Kyrgyzstani Som notes for irregularities.

Poor Quality Notes: Counterfeit notes may feel different, have incorrect textures, and colors
Wrong Sizes: Counterfeit notes may be larger or smaller than authentic ones
Incorrect Holograms: Check the hologram's watermark and serial number for authenticity

Be wary of unsolicited guides offering their services. Research and book authorized guides.

Inadequate Knowledge: Unauthorized guides may lack knowledge about Bishkek's attractions
Overcharging: Some guides may overcharge for their services or lead you to scammy shops
Language Skills: Communication difficulties may result in misunderstandings about the tour

Avoid eating from unhygienic street vendors. Stick to reputable restaurants or hotels.

Unsanitary Conditions: Street food vendors may lack proper hygiene practices
Foodborne Illnesses: Eating unsafe food can lead to severe illnesses such as food poisoning
Unfamiliar Ingredients: Some street foods may contain unknown ingredients that could cause allergic reactions

Buy from reputable shops or malls to avoid overpriced or counterfeit goods.

Overpricing: Shops may charge higher prices for goods than in legitimate stores
Counterfeit Goods: Some shops may sell counterfeit or low-quality versions of popular items
Language Barrier: Negotiating prices and identifying authentic goods can be challenging

Use ATMs located inside banks or shopping centers to avoid card skimmers. Monitor your account for any unusual activity.

Card Skimming: ATMs with card skimming devices can capture your card and pin information
Withdrawal Limits: Some ATMs may have lower withdrawal limits or charge high fees
Insecure Locations: ATMs in unsecured locations can be more susceptible to tampering

Buy sim cards from authorized stores or official counters at the airport. Be wary of offers on the street.

Malfunctioning Sim Cards: Sim cards sold by unauthorized vendors may have malfunctions, such as poor signal quality
Unauthorized Charges: Some unauthorized sim cards may have hidden charges or data limitations
Identity Theft: Your personal information could be compromised by using an unauthorized sim card

Book accommodations through reputable websites or hotels directly to avoid overpriced, substandard rooms.

Overpricing: Some accommodation providers may charge higher prices than listed online
Substandard Rooms: Rooms may be smaller, less clean, or lacking amenities as advertised
Location Inaccuracies: Accommodations may not be in the location provided or near landmarks as promised

Buy souvenirs from reputable shops or markets to avoid overpriced items.

Overpricing: Shops may charge higher prices for popular souvenir items
Counterfeit Items: Some shops may sell counterfeit or low-quality versions of popular souvenirs
Language Barrier: Negotiating prices and identifying authentic goods can be challenging

Be cautious when approached by charity collectors. Research legitimate charities to support.

Fraudulent Collectors: Not all collectors are genuine, and some may use your donations for personal gain
Lack of Impact: Your donation may not reach the intended recipients or have the intended impact
Unsolicited Approaches: Collectors may approach you aggressively or manipulate your emotions to get your money

Avoid restaurants with no menus or prices displayed. Research popular dining spots beforehand.

Hidden Charges: Restaurants may add unexpected charges to your bill
Poor Quality Food: Food quality may be poor or portions small compared to advertised sizes
Language Barrier: Communication difficulties may result in misunderstandings about the bill

Use official marshrutka (shared minibus) services to avoid overpricing or unsafe vehicles.

Overpricing: Some drivers may charge higher prices than the standard fare
Unsafe Vehicles: Vehicles may be poorly maintained or overcrowded, putting passengers at risk
Language Barrier: Communication difficulties may result in misunderstandings about the fare

Exchange currency at banks or authorized exchange offices to get fair rates.

Unfavorable Exchange Rates: Some unauthorized exchangers may offer unfavorable exchange rates
Hidden Fees: Exchange offices may charge hidden fees or markups on the exchange rate
Unauthorized Exchangers: Exchanging money with unauthorized exchangers can lead to loss of funds or compromised security

Book accommodations through Airbnb's official website to avoid overpriced, substandard listings.

Overpricing: Some hosts may charge higher prices than listed on the platform
Substandard Listings: Listings may be smaller, less clean, or lacking amenities as advertised
Location Inaccuracies: Accommodations may not be in the location provided or near landmarks as promised

Visit tourist attractions during official hours and buy tickets from authorized ticket booths.

Overpricing: Some vendors may charge higher prices for entrance fees
Counterfeit Tickets: Some tickets may be counterfeit or invalid, preventing entry to attractions
Unauthorized Guides: Tourist attractions may have unauthorized guides who offer tours for a fee