Horse Riding Through the Tien Shan Mountains
Enjoy two unforgettable days on horseback, following scenic mountain trails through Kilemche Valley, lush alpine pastures, and spectacular high-altitude landscapes.
Private Tour
Land Of Nomads Kyrgyzstan – 9 Days
Land of Nomads Kyrgyzstan 9 Day Tour is a guided journey through Kyrgyzstan. Embark on an epic 9-day journey through the heart of nomadic Kyrgyzstan. This comprehensive adventure combines three days of immersive horseback riding to Song-Kol Lake with overland exploration to the remote borderlands of Kel-Suu, cultural encounters with eagle hunters, and serene relaxation in alpine hot springs—all while traversing some of Central Asia's most spectacular and untouched landscapes.
Duration9 Days
Trip TypeCombined Tours
DifficultyModerate
Best SeasonMarch – November
Tour StylePrivate Tour
Overview
About This Tour
Land of Nomads Kyrgyzstan 9 Day Tour is a guided journey through Kyrgyzstan. Embark on an epic 9-day journey through the heart of nomadic Kyrgyzstan. This comprehensive adventure combines three days of immersive horseback riding to Song-Kol Lake with overland exploration to the remote borderlands of Kel-Suu, cultural encounters with eagle hunters, and serene relaxation in alpine hot springs—all while traversing some of Central Asia's most spectacular and untouched landscapes.
What you will love
Tour Highlights
Discover the Beauty of Song-Kol Lake
Ride across the breathtaking Jalgyz-Karagay Pass at 3,400 meters to reach the pristine Song-Kol Lake, surrounded by majestic mountains and peaceful nomadic pastures.
Authentic Nomadic Yurt Experience
Spend nights in traditional Kyrgyz yurts, enjoy homemade local cuisine, and experience the warm hospitality and centuries-old traditions of nomadic life.
Explore the Remote Kel-Suu Lake
Journey through the spectacular Kyndy Pass into Kyrgyzstan's remote borderlands and trek to the turquoise waters of Kel-Suu Lake, surrounded by towering cliffs and untouched wilderness.
Traditional Eagle Hunting & Ak-Say Canyon
Witness an impressive golden eagle hunting demonstration with a local berkutchi and explore the dramatic landscapes of Ak-Say Canyon near Issyk-Kul Lake.
Discover Skazka Canyon, Barskoon & Jeti-Oguz
Explore the colorful sandstone formations of Fairy Tale Canyon, admire the beautiful Barskoon Waterfall, and discover the iconic Seven Bulls red rocks of Jeti-Oguz Valley.
Trekking & Natural Hot Springs in Altyn Arashan
Trek through beautiful alpine forests into Altyn Arashan Valley, surrounded by snow-capped peaks, and relax in soothing natural hot springs after your mountain adventure.
Scenic Journey Around Issyk-Kul & Karakol
Travel along the breathtaking shores of Issyk-Kul Lake, discover Karakol's historic Dungan Mosque and Orthodox Church, and enjoy panoramic views of the majestic Tien Shan Mountains.
Day by day
Detailed Itinerary
Open each day to explore the route, experiences and practical details.
Bishkek city → Kyzart Pass → Kilemche Valley
Map data © OpenStreetMap contributors
Depart Bishkek for the scenic drive to Kyzart Village near Song-Kol Lake. After lunch at a local homestay, meet your horse and guide for your first riding experience along the gentle Chaar-Archa River trail. Next, arrive at Kilemche Pasture, a serene grazing area where you'll settle into a traditional yurt and enjoy dinner with nomadic hosts.
Drive Distance
280 km
Drive Time
4 hours
Activities
Kyzart Village, Horse Riding, Kilemche Pasture
Altitude
2,600 m
Horse Riding
4-5 hours
Accommodation Name
Traditional Yurt
Facilities
Shared outdoor WC
Internet / Wi-Fi
Wi-Fi Limited
Meals Included
Lunch, Dinner
Kilemche Valley → Song-Kol Lake
Map data © OpenStreetMap contributors
Ride to the summit of Jalgyz-Karagay Pass (3400m) for breathtaking first views of Song-Kol Lake. Descend to the lakeshore for lunch, then enjoy an afternoon ride along the western shore, visiting a nomadic family camp to observe traditional herding life. Afterward, overnight in a yurt at the lake.
Activities
Horse Riding, Jalgyz-Karagay Pass, Song-Kol Lake
Altitude
3,400 m at pass
Horse Riding
24 km (5-6 hours)
Cultural Experience
Nomadic family visit
Accommodation Name
Yurt at Song-Kol Lake
Facilities
Shared outdoor WC
Internet / Wi-Fi
Wi-Fi Available
Meals Included
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Song-Kol Lake → Kyzart Pass → Tash Bashat Village
Map data © OpenStreetMap contributors
Today is more resting day.After breakfast,drive to Kajyrty waterfall through 32 parrot pass.After lunch in Naryn city.Drive to Tash-Bashat Village in central Kyrgyzstan, checking into a guesthouse with modern amenities.
Drive Distance
230 km
Drive Time
4–5 hours
Activities
Horse Riding, Kara-Kiya Pass, Kyzart, Tash-Bashat Village
Transition
From nomadic to village life
Accommodation Name
Altay Hotel
Facilities
Private bathroom, hot shower
Internet / Wi-Fi
Wi-Fi Available
Meals Included
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Tash Bashat Village → At-Bashy Valley → Kyndy Pass → Kok-Kiya Valley
Map data © OpenStreetMap contributors
Journey south through the expansive At-Bashy and Bosogo Valleys, with a riverside picnic lunch. In addition, ascend Kyndy Pass (3500m) through a border checkpoint into the remote Ak-Say Valley. Arrive in Kok-Kiya Valley for overnight amidst dramatic mountain scenery.
Drive Distance
210 km
Drive Time
6–8 hours
Activities
At-Bashy Valley, Kyndy Pass, Kok-Kiya Valley
Altitude
3,500 m at pass
Road Conditions
170 km dirt road
Border Check
Kel-Suu permits verified
Accommodation Name
Guesthouse or Yurt
Facilities
Basic shared facilities
Internet / Wi-Fi
Wi-Fi Limited
Meals Included
Breakfast, Picnic, Dinner
Kok-Kiya Valley → Kel-Suu Lake → Naryn city
Map data © OpenStreetMap contributors
Trek along the river to the stunning Kel-Suu Lake, a turquoise gem surrounded by steep cliffs. Return for lunch before driving to Naryn City, the regional capital, for comfortable guesthouse accommodation.
Drive Distance
170 km
Drive Time
3–4 hours
Activities
Trek to Kel-Suu Lake, Drive to Naryn City
Trekking
14 km (4 hours)
Alternative
Horse riding option available
Accommodation Name
Guesthouse in Naryn
Facilities
Private bathroom, hot shower
Internet / Wi-Fi
Wi-Fi Available
Meals Included
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Naryn city → Ak-Sai Canyon → Issyk-Kul Lake
Map data © OpenStreetMap contributors
Drive through the dramatic Ak-Say Canyon to Bokonbaevo region for a golden eagle hunting demonstration. Learn about this ancient tradition before checking into a traditional yurt camp on Issyk-Kul Lake's southern shore.
Drive Distance
250 km
Drive Time
2–3 hours
Activities
Ak-Say Canyon, Eagle Hunting Demonstration, Issyk-Kul Yurt Camp
Setting
Lakeside yurt accommodation
Accommodation Name
Yurt Camp
Facilities
Shared
Internet / Wi-Fi
Wi-Fi Available
Meals Included
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Bokonbaevo Village → Fairy Tale Canyon → Barskoon Waterfall → Jeti-Oguz Gorge → Karakol city
Map data © OpenStreetMap contributors
Explore the fantastical formations of Skazka Canyon ("Fairy Tale Canyon"), hike to Barskoon Waterfall, and visit the iconic Jeti-Oguz Valley with its "Seven Bulls" red rock formations. Arrive in Karakol for hotel accommodation and restaurant dinner.
Activities
Skazka Canyon, Barskoon Waterfall, Jeti-Oguz, Karakol
Travel
150 km (3 hours)
Natural Sites
Three distinct landscapes
Accommodation Name
Hotel in Karakol
Facilities
Private bathroom, hot shower
Internet / Wi-Fi
Wi-Fi Available
Meals Included
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Karakol city → Altyn Arashan Valley
Map data © OpenStreetMap contributors
Trek into the Altyn Arashan Valley ("Golden Spa"), following the river through pine forests to the natural hot springs. Soak in the mineral-rich waters surrounded by snow-capped peaks including Palatka Peak (5,200m). Stay overnight in a guesthouse in the valley.
Activities
Trekking to Altyn Arashan Hot Springs, Guesthouse in Altyn Arashan
Altitude
2,500 m
Trekking
13 km (4-5 hours)
Key Experience
Natural hot springs relaxation
Note
Bring your swimsuit! Also you can take 4x4 drive instead of trekking
Accommodation Name
Guesthouse in Altyn Arashan
Facilities
Shared
Internet / Wi-Fi
Wi-Fi Limited
Meals Included
Breakfast, Picnic, Dinner
Altyn Arashan Valley → Karakol city → Bishkek city
Map data © OpenStreetMap contributors
Trek back to Karakol (4 hours descent). After a short city tour visiting the Dungan Mosque and Russian Orthodox Church, begin the scenic drive to Bishkek along the northern shore of Issyk-Kul Lake. Arrive by late afternoon.
Drive Distance
400 km
Drive Time
6–8 hours
Activities
Karakol city tour, scenic drive
Trekking
13 km (4 hours descent)
Scenic Finale
Pastoral gorges and lake views
Tour Ends
Bishkek late afternoon
Meals Included
Breakfast, Lunch
Visual Journey
Tour Gallery
Discover the landscapes, culture and unforgettable moments of this journey.
Journey at a glance
Tour Map & Route
Route overview
1,540 km real road route
Total Distance1,540 km
Total Drive Time~ 32 hours
Max Altitude3,500 m
Tour Duration9 Days
TransportCar · Horse · UAZ / 4×4
DifficultyModerate
Be Prepared
What to Pack
The right gear makes your journey more comfortable and enjoyable. Here’s what we recommend for this tour.
Small essentials for big adventures.
Clothing & Layers
Practical essentials for comfort in Kyrgyzstan.
Clothing & Layers
- Lightweight T-shirtsComfortable for warm daytime travel and activities.
- Long-Sleeve Base LayerUseful for cool mornings, evenings, and higher elevations.
- Warm Fleece or Insulated JacketMountain temperatures can drop considerably after sunset.
- Waterproof & Windproof JacketProtection from rain, wind, and changing mountain weather.
- Comfortable Trekking PantsSuitable for walking, horse riding, and outdoor activities.
- Thermal Base LayersRecommended for high-altitude tours and cold nights.
- Warm Hat & GlovesUseful for early mornings, mountain passes, and colder evenings.
- Sun Hat or CapProtection from strong daytime sun.
Footwear
Practical essentials for comfort in Kyrgyzstan.
Footwear
- Hiking or Trekking ShoesComfortable footwear with good grip for uneven terrain.
- Comfortable Everyday ShoesUseful for cities, villages, guesthouses, and relaxed evenings.
- Horse-Riding Suitable ShoesRecommended for tours that include or offer horse riding.
- Sandals or Flip-FlopsConvenient for yurt camps, guesthouses, showers, and hot springs.
Outdoor & Day Gear
Practical essentials for comfort in Kyrgyzstan.
Outdoor & Day Gear
- Reusable Water BottleHelps you stay hydrated throughout the journey.
- Small DaypackFor water, extra layers, camera equipment, and daily essentials.
- Headlamp or FlashlightParticularly useful at yurt camps and mountain accommodation.
Sun & Weather Protection
Practical essentials for comfort in Kyrgyzstan.
Sun & Weather Protection
- Sunscreen SPF 30+UV exposure is stronger at higher elevations.
- Sunglasses with UV ProtectionImportant for bright mountain conditions.
- Lip Balm with SPFHelps protect against sun, wind, and dry mountain air.
Health & Personal Care
Practical essentials for comfort in Kyrgyzstan.
Health & Personal Care
- Personal ToiletriesBring the personal items you normally require.
- Wet Wipes & Hand SanitizerUseful during long drives and stays in remote areas.
- Personal MedicationBring enough medication for the entire trip.
- Small First-Aid KitUseful for minor cuts, blisters, and everyday travel needs.
Hot Springs & Yurt Stays
Practical essentials for comfort in Kyrgyzstan.
Hot Springs & Yurt Stays
- SwimsuitUseful for tours visiting hot springs, lakes, or swimming areas.
- Sandals or Flip-FlopsConvenient around hot springs, showers, and yurt camps.
Documents & Money
Practical essentials for comfort in Kyrgyzstan.
Documents & Money
- Cash in KGSRecommended for small purchases and services in remote areas.
- Travel DocumentsKeep passport, insurance details, permits, and important documents accessible.
Electronics & Extras
Practical essentials for comfort in Kyrgyzstan.
Electronics & Extras
- Power BankCharging opportunities may be limited in remote areas.
- CameraKyrgyzstan offers exceptional landscape and cultural photography.
Know Before You Go
Travel Information
Money & Payments
Major towns and cities accept credit and debit cards, but in villages and remote areas cash in Kyrgyz Som (KGS) is essential.
Internet & Mobile Connection
Mobile internet works well in cities but can be unstable or unavailable in high mountain regions. A local SIM card is recommended.
Electricity
Kyrgyzstan uses 220V electricity with Type C and Type F sockets. Bring an adapter when required.
Language
Kyrgyz and Russian are the main languages. English is increasingly common in tourism, while a few local words are useful in rural communities.
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance should include emergency medical care and the outdoor or adventure activities in your itinerary.
Physical Requirements
Choose a tour that matches your mobility and fitness level. Some itineraries include long drives, walking, trekking or horse riding.
Altitude
Many journeys reach high elevations. Hydrate well, pace yourself and tell your guide if you feel unwell.
Weather & Clothing
Mountain weather changes quickly. Pack layers and weather-resistant clothing for sun, wind, rain and cold temperatures.
Faq
Have Questions?
Find answers to the most common questions about this tour.
Still have a question? Contact us — we’re happy to help!
Who is the Land Of Nomads Kyrgyzstan 9-Day Tour best suited for?
The 9-day Land Of Nomads Kyrgyzstan itinerary is ideal for travelers who want mountain scenery, nomadic culture, and a genuine horse-riding experience in Kyrgyzstan.
What level of activity should I expect on the Land Of Nomads Kyrgyzstan 9-Day Tour?
It combines horse riding with walking or hiking. Basic fitness is recommended, while the guide can adjust the pace to the group.
What accommodation is used during the Land Of Nomads Kyrgyzstan 9-Day Tour?
The program uses traditional yurt camps, local guesthouses, hotels and homestays, depending on the day. Exact facilities are shown in the detailed itinerary and may be simpler in remote mountain areas.
When is the best season for the Land Of Nomads Kyrgyzstan 9-Day Tour?
The standard Best Season is March–November. Mountain conditions vary by altitude, so the exact route and activities may be adjusted for weather and local conditions.
Are meals included on the Land Of Nomads Kyrgyzstan 9-Day Tour?
Meals are included as specified for each day in the itinerary. Please tell Kyrgyz Wonders in advance about vegetarian meals, allergies, or other dietary requirements.
Will I have internet or mobile coverage during the Land Of Nomads Kyrgyzstan 9-Day Tour?
Coverage is generally better in towns and villages, while remote valleys, mountain passes, yurt camps, and high-altitude areas may have weak or no signal.
What should I pack for Song-Kol Lake on the Land Of Nomads Kyrgyzstan 9-Day Tour?
Bring layered clothing, sun and weather protection, a refillable water bottle, personal medication, and closed-toe shoes suitable for riding, comfortable hiking shoes, a swimsuit, warm layers for cool yurt-camp evenings. Use the 8 What to Pack categories in the Tour Builder for the complete checklist.
Can the Land Of Nomads Kyrgyzstan 9-Day Tour itinerary be customized?
Yes. Private tours can be adjusted for your dates, group size, preferred pace, accommodation level, and selected activities, subject to weather and local conditions.
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