Travel tips

Please respect and follow the local dress customs when visiting Pankisi Valley:

• Men should wear long trousers and not present themselves in shorts, topless or bare-chested at home or in public, regardless of how hot it is.

• Women should cover their shoulders and knees, and pack a light cotton scarf to cover hair when entering a mosque or church.

Please note that shoes or trainers are not worn inside Kist homes. Therefore please use the slippers provided and remember to remove your outdoor footwear before entering.

Behaviour

In social life, Muslims are expected to show restraint in their conduct and behaviour especially in relation to social interaction between men and women. Kissing or holding hands in public or other intimate behavior between couples is considered anti-social and should be avoided. This is also applicable to communal areas of your guesthouse where family members and their relatives may be present.

Most of the guest houses do not allow alcohol consumption. Please respect the wishes of your host family. Public drunkenness is to be avoided and guests are advised to drink responsibly at social gatherings.

When taking photos of people, please seek permission first to avoid embarrassment or cause offense. Always ask before you photograph a woman or child, and be sensitive when photographing places of worship.

Eating and drinking

Guest houses usually serve breakfast, lunch, and dinner on request, and can cater to special dietary needs. Some guest houses offer shared kitchen facilities that guests can use to cook their food. Eating Chechen cuisine is one of the highlights of a trip to Pankisi Valley, so be sure to accept an offer of a home cooked meal if offered.

• There are small shops in Pankisi Valley where you can purchase basic groceries and snacks.

• Clean, fresh drinking water is available from public taps dotted all around the valley – don’t forget to pack your reusable drinking bottle.

• Please note that most guest houses are dry and do not serve alcohol or permit drinking on the premises.

• Visitors are able to find cafés in the Pankisi Valley using Google Maps.

Nature and wildlife

Pankisi Valley is surrounded by rich nature with a great variety of fauna and flora. It is important to note that normal precautions regarding wildlife apply in the valley and the surrounding areas as there would be in any rural or natural setting. Wherever there are herds of sheep, there will be shepherd dogs to protect the sheep and caution should be taken approaching them.

ATM'S and Money

There are ATMs in Duisi however, it is recommended to bring enough cash with you to cover your expenses. Guest houses and shops in Pankisi Valley accept cash though credit card machines are starting to be used.

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