Osh Guesthouse

The guesthouse is well placed, near the bazaar and bus and taxi stations, and not too far from the mountains. It has a nice backpacker hostel feel, so it’s easy to meet other travelers. Staff can help in English and German, there’s a city map, and they offer lots of services, though they’re pricey. We’re backpackers and don’t expect much for a low price, but there were too many things that needed attention. There was mold near the beds and around 10-15 mosquitoes in our room because the screen was broken. Getting rid of them almost became a funny little hunt. Curtains separate the dorm from the rest of the area, but they don’t block the noise, so it affects everyone. One bathroom for up to eight travelers is barely enough, and the bathroom itself is very basic. Luggage storage costs extra, which doesn’t feel in the spirit of backpacking. The tours also seem expensive. One was 100 euros, about what we usually spend in three days for two people traveling in Kyrgyzstan. There’s potential here, but it still needs work.

I’d read plenty of positive reviews before booking an apartment through Osh Guesthouse. It was just around the corner from the hostel, on the fourth floor, and I found at least six cockroaches without even looking for them. The place was drab and dingy. At $20 a night it was cheap, but it was the worst place I stayed during my month-plus in Central Asia. When I mentioned the roaches at checkout, staff took just 50 som off, about US$0.70. I moved to another homestay at roughly the same price, and it was much, much cleaner. I wouldn’t recommend booking one of their apartments.

The private room was a much better deal than the shared one for almost the same price, and breakfast was included. Staff helped us with several things, including getting a Kyrgyz SIM, finding places to eat, travel advice, and sorting out our car. A good guesthouse.

We arranged a Pamir Highway trip through Osh guesthouse and the service was amazing. The driver was lovely and the car was great. We also needed extra help with our visa, and the team were really helpful and supportive. Thanks so much for everything!