Central Asia brings to mind images of yurt camps, ancient cities, ruins, and wild mountains. It also brings with it a lot of bad roads. We understand that and we buy cars specific to the region. We are not a huge international chain, we are a uniquely Central Asian company (with an American expat owner), so we understand Central Asia. Our cars are rugged, easily repaired here, and they are new models purchased from dealers. Central Asia is the trip of a lifetime, so pick an appropriate vehicle.
We have two offices; one in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan and the other in Almaty, Kazakhstan. We allow our cars (depending on model) to travel in Kyrgyzstan, Kazakhstan, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan. One way rentals between Almaty and Bishkek are available for a fee and delivery to other cities in Kyrgyzstan and Kazakhstan is also possible. With online payments you can securely book here and pay here.
Click here for Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan
Click here for Almaty, Kazakhstan
Click here for Terms and Conditions
Click here for Driving Laws and Tips
Why choose Iron Horse Nomads?
- Friendly service
- English speaking staff
- New cars (the newest rental fleet in Central Asia)
- Winter tires during snow season
- Durable, off-road ready tires (except economy cars)
- Fully insured cars
- Free lodging booking and tour planning assistance
- 24/7 availability by phone in emergencies
- Online booking
- Online payments
- Cars can travel in Kyrgyzstan, Kazakhstan, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan (depends on vehicle type)
Car Types
We have organized our fleet into classes typically with only one or two models in each class. (Each class title links to the specific page on our booking site.)
Expedition 4×4
World class 4x4s set up for the long haul. We use the Ford Ranger T6 model (2012-2015). This truck combines superior comfort inside, including good legroom in the rear seats, with rugged 4×4 ability. The truck beds are are enclosed with a steel, lockable cover to protect your gear and that doubles as a viewing platform or space for excess equipment. During the summer these run BFGoodrich All Terrain tires and during the winter SUV type studless winter tires. Ready to travel anywhere in Central Asia including difficult roads like Kel Suu and the Pamir Highway in Tajikistan.
Standard 4×4
Capable of travelling anywhere in Central Asia, our Standard 4x4s are a great value that retains the ruggedness necessary for back country travel while being smaller and easier to drive. Best for shorter trips and for those uncomfortable with larger vehicles. Our standard model is the UAZ Patriot. This modernized Russian SUV is perfect for Central Asia’s rough roads and mountain passes. Equipped with solid axles front and rear it also has a large luggage area to carry all your gear and comes with standard safety equipment like airbags and anti-lock brakes. Read more.
Crossover AWD
Not planning an expedition to the end of the earth, but want to get to a few more out of the way places along the road? A crossover SUV is a great way to travel. Efficient, easy to drive, and more than capable of tackling some gravel roads. Our Crossover of choice is the Renault Duster (Dacia Duster in Europe). Ours come with skid plates protecting you from damaging the car and good all season tires as well as dedicated winter tires once the snow starts. These cars are also fantastic for winter ski trips. Read more.
Economy Car
For driving in the city or just on easy roads around Issyk Kul or down to Osh there is no reason to deal with the weight and expense of an SUV. We use the Renault Sandero Stepway (raised suspension package) for all our run-around needs. Easy on the wallet and easy on the driver.
Russian 4×4
Want something a bit more challenging? Russian (or really Soviet) 4x4s have never fully modernized. It’s like driving a time capsule. We have Lada Niva 4x4s and UAZ Hunter 4x4s. The UAZ can go to Tajikistan, but the Ladas need to stay in Kyrgyzstan. These rugged SUVs provide a whole different experience (including sometimes breaking down). Tip your hat to the region’s Soviet history and give one a try.
Specialty vehicles like motorcycles and vans available on request.