Where to Stay in Central Asia: My Favorite Accommodations Across 5 Countries

Written By Becca Rooney

Traveling through Central Asia was one of the most rewarding experiences of my life, from the bustling markets of Almaty to sleeping in yurts under starry skies near Song Kul. Along the way, I stayed in a wide range of accommodations: cozy hostels, boutique hotels, local guesthouses, and even remote yurt camps high in the mountains. I’m sharing the places I personally stayed across Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan, and Tajikistan, not just where I slept, but where I felt welcomed, inspired, and just downright comfortable. Whether you're planning your own Silk Road adventure or just curious, these are the spots I genuinely recommend.

Almaty, Kazakhstan, My Hostel Almaty

I stayed at My Hostel Almaty when I first landed in Kazakhstan. The place is simple, offering both private rooms and dorm beds that actually give you some privacy (hello, curtains!) and hot showers that felt like a luxury after days on the road. I stayed in one of the capsules and it was such a unique experience. (Check out my IG reel in my story highlight for more info.)

It’s not a wild party hostel or super social, but it was a good place with a central location, perfect for exploring for a few days before heading to Kyrgyzstan. They also have a kitchen you can cook in, which was a nice bonus. If you’re traveling solo and want somewhere low-key but friendly, this is a great choice.

Bishkek, Krygyzstan: Apple Hostel

If you're looking for a place in Bishkek that feels like home from the moment you arrive, Apple Hostel is it. This family-run spot is all about creating a welcoming, social atmosphere without the party chaos. I stayed in a private room, which was super comfortable and quiet, perfect for recharging. It had everything I needed, including air conditioning and a private bathroom, which made it feel more like a cozy guesthouse than a hostel.

What really makes Apple Hostel stand out is again the staff. They’re not just there to check you in, they genuinely care about your experience and are always happy to help with booking tours and transportation around Kyrgyzstan. Whether you want to explore the stunning mountains, visit Issyk-Kul lake, or experience local culture, they make organizing your trips super easy and stress-free. The range of tours they offer is also really helpful, especially if it’s your first time in the country.


This is a social hostel, but without the loud, chaotic party vibes. It’s the kind of place where you’ll naturally meet other travelers, swap stories, and share tips over breakfast or in the common areas. It was the perfect place to start my trip, especially because of how easy it was to connect with people.

The hostel also organizes a bunch of activities, like cooking classes, cultural tours, food walks, and evening events, so there’s always something to do if you’re in the mood to be social, but no pressure if you’re not.

Whatever you’re into, Apple Hostel has something for everyone. It’s the kind of place where you can relax, meet fellow travelers, and feel like part of the family.

I went with them on the Song Kol Horse trek and had an amazing time. You can see my reels about it here.

Karakol, Krygyzatan: Snow Leopard

Nestled in the heart of Karakol, Snow Leopard Hostel is the kind of spot that immediately makes you feel welcome and at ease. This family-run place strikes the perfect balance between cozy and social, offering clean, comfortable rooms with all the little comforts you need after a day of exploring.

The owner is super friendly and helpful. From helping me organize my Ala Kul trek to where to buy groceries, any questions I had, he was able to answer. He also allows guests to leave their bags at the hostel while hiking.

Whether you want to unwind in the cozy common room, or just swap stories with fellow travelers, Snow Leopard creates the perfect vibe to recharge and connect.

You can see my reels about it here!

Song Kul Lake Horse Trek: Yurts were booked through Apple Hostel

One of the absolute highlights of my time in Kyrgyzstan was the horse trek to Song Kul Lake, and booking it through Apple Hostel made the whole experience super smooth. The tour included: transport, meals, and guides.

We spent two nights in two different places. Both equally as beautiful.

The lake itself is unreal, massive, remote, and surrounded by rolling green hills and wild horses. The time spent at the yurts were perfect for relaxing and connecting with the locals or other travelers on the hikes by playing cards or soccer. The yurts were basic but cozy, with warm blankets and hearty home-cooked meals that hit the spot after the trekking through the mountains and working up an appetite.

I’d recommend this as one of the must do things in Kyrgyzstan. Just book it. You won’t regret it. But fair warning, your whole body will hurt by day 3, but the views make it worth it!

You can see my reels about it here!

Naryn, Krygyzstan: Guest House Tenir Too

I stayed at Guest House Tenir Too during my visit to Naryn, and it was exactly the kind of cozy, family ran, quiet base I was looking for between my mountain adventures. The house sits just off the main street, close enough to some cafes and restaurants, yet tucked into a quiet street so evenings felt peaceful.

The guest house itself is bright and modern, with spotless rooms, reliable air-conditioning, and free Wi‑Fi. One of my favorite features? There’s a sun terrace and patio where I’d sip tea in the morning and spot mountain peaks in the distance, it was a little peaceful hideaway in town.

Kel Suu, Krygyzstan: Kezgin Guesthouse

I stayed at Kezgin Guesthouse in Naryn before heading out to hike to Kel‑Suu Lake. This place is brand new and more modern than a yurt stay if that is what you are looking for.

The views right outside were stunning and in a great location to get to the hike. We had meals included and the staff was kind enough to pack us a to go lunch.

Osh, Krygyzstan: Cube House Osh

When I stumbled onto Cube House Osh, I was immediately struck by its slick, modern design, a boutique hideaway in the heart of southern Kyrgyzstan’s oldest city. It’s perched just across from a leafy riverbank park, with the historic Sulayman-Too hill rising nearby, it felt serene yet central, an ideal base while exploring Osh.

Inside, the rooms are clean, air-conditioned, and thoughtfully designed, each includes a TV, kettle, comfy bedding, and complimentary toiletries. And the staff? Super nice. I stayed her before and after my time in Tulpar Lake.

Tulpar Lake, Krygyzstan: Alay Travel / CBT yurt

I stayed near Tulpar Lake with Alay Travel (an agency) who runs Tulpar Lakes CBT yurt (check out their instagram here). Compared to Kel‑Suu, this spot had a more laid-back, communal vibe, plenty of space to wander by the lake, chat with other travelers, or just sit and take in the towering snow-capped peaks in the distance. The yurts were basic but comfortable, and the setting alone made it one of the most scenic places I stayed.

Meals were shared around a big tables, and even though everyone was heading in different directions, there was a sense of community. The team at Alay Travel were welcoming. They can help arrange horse treks, day hikes, or transport further south if you need it. There’s no Wi‑Fi out there, but honestly, it was kind of a relief to unplug and just slow down for a bit. Whether you’re on your way to climb Peak Lenin or just want to soak in some incredible landscapes, Tulpar Lake is definitely worth the stop.

Tashkent, Uzbekistan: Rakat Plaza

I spent a few nights at Rakat Plaza during my time in Tashkent. While it's technically a mid-range hotel, the vibe strikes a great balance between modern comfort and traveler-friendly energy. The rooms are spacious, air-conditioned, and have blackout curtains, perfect for recharging.

The hotel also features a peaceful pool and outdoor area, perfect for relaxing after a long day touring museums or wandering Chorsu Bazaar. The breakfast is a generous buffet, a welcome boost before getting back out there. Location-wise, it's about a 10‑minute drive from the airport and close to the Novza metro station, which made it easy to knock out a few sights at my own pace.

The staff here went out of their way to help me with everything, from organizing a doctors visit and taxi’s around town when my app wasn’t working. Little gestures like that really count when you’re on the road and dealing with language barriers.

Samarkand, Uzbekistan: Mövenpick

If you want to mix a bit of modern comfort with history, Mövenpick Samarkand is a perfect choice. It’s just a short walk from the city’s main attractions like Registan Square, so you can easily pop back for a rest throughout the day. The rooms are spacious and stylish, with everything you need to feel at home after a day of exploring, think good air conditioning, fast Wi-Fi, and a comfy bed. My favorite part? The black marble bathroom was a real standout!

The hotel lobby is the heart of the place, offering several cozy sections where you can have great conversations, enjoy a nice drink, or get lost in a book. Overall, the vibe is relaxed, with a lovely outdoor pool and tennis court, perfect for unwinding and shaking off the dust after wandering the bazaars or squeezing in some exercise. The lobby’s glass atrium floods the space with natural light, making it an ideal spot to sip coffee and watch the city go by.

If you want a hotel that offers a break from the hustle and bustle, but still keeps you close to all the historic magic, Mövenpick is a perfect fit.

Bhukara, Uzbekistan: Komil Boutique

Staying at Komil Boutique Hotel in Bukhara felt like stepping back in time. Nestled in the heart of the Old City, just a short walk from Lyab-i-Hauz Square, this 19th-century merchant house offers a unique blend of traditional Bukharan architecture and modern comforts. Each of the 21 rooms is individually decorated with intricate carvings, vibrant wall paintings, and high ceilings that capture the essence of old Bukhara. Despite its historical charm, the hotel provides amenities like air-conditioning, good wifi, and private bathrooms with hairdryers and slippers, ensuring a comfortable stay.

What truly sets Komil Boutique Hotel apart is breakfast buffet setting and room. It truly bring you to a place where people enjoyed in the 19th century. The serene courtyards and balconies also provide perfect spots to relax with a cup of tea, soaking in the tranquil atmosphere.

Whether you're exploring Bukhara's historic sites or simply seeking a peaceful retreat, Komil Boutique Hotel offers an authentic and memorable experience that combines the rich heritage of Uzbekistan with modern hospitality.

Fann Mountains, Tajikistan: Artuch Travel

If you're venturing into the Fann Mountains, Artuch Travel is the perfect agency turned family to book with. Located close to the village of Artuch, about 70 km from Panjakent, this camp offers a range of accommodations, from cozy cottages to more modern accommodation in their newer buildings, all set amidst the stunning backdrop of the mountains. The camp is close to a ton of hikes in the area where you can either go on day trips or multi day trips. I had the most incredible time there, from enjoying the untouched nature with barely any tourists to hanging out with all of the staff and their kids, it was one of the best experiences I have ever had.

Getting there is an adventure in itself. But don’t worry, Artuch Travel can organize everything for you. For those looking to explore further, Artuch Travel offers weekend tours, including guided hikes, meals, and transport, making it an excellent option for both seasoned trekkers and casual travelers, and for those continuing on in Central Asia as they have partners throughout the area.

Do you have any further questions? If so, please email hello@alexamcdonald.com! I’d be happy to offer you some personal tips!

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Becca Rooney
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