Experience Kyrgyzstan the way few travelers ever do—through a perfect blend of horse riding, trekking, and 4×4 off-road exploration across some of Central Asia’s most spectacular landscapes. This 9-day journey is crafted for the adventurous traveler who seeks authentic nomadic culture, remote nature, and the breathtaking beauty of Kyrgyzstan’s mountains, valleys, and alpine lakes.
Your adventure begins on horseback, crossing high mountain passes and staying in traditional yurts near Song-Kol Lake, where local herders still live by centuries-old traditions. From there, you transition into a rugged 4×4 road trip deep into Kok-Kiya and Ak-Say Valleys, leading you to the hidden turquoise gem of Kel-Suu Lake, one of the most remote and dramatic locations in the country.
The journey then continues toward Issyk-Kul Lake for an eagle hunting show, before exploring the iconic red canyons of Skazka, the thundering Barskoon Waterfall, and the legendary rock formations of Jeti-Oguz. A scenic off-road adventure to the alpine paradise of Altyn Arashan—famous for its natural hot springs—completes the experience before returning to Bishkek via the lush Semenovka and Grigorevka Gorges.
This tour is ideal for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and travelers wanting a true nomadic experience, blending horseback traditions with spectacular off-road landscapes and cultural immersion.
Ride through Kilemche Valley and cross the 3,400 m Jalgyz-Karagay Pass.
Overnight in traditional yurts at Song-Kol Lake, surrounded by grazing animals and nomadic life.
Scenic horse ride along the lakeshore with views of crystal-clear alpine waters.
Explore remote Kok-Kiya Valley and wild Ak-Say Valley, home to nomadic herders and yak pastures.
Visit Kel-Suu Lake, one of Kyrgyzstan’s most dramatic and isolated mountain lakes.
Drive through towering mountains, high passes, and untouched wilderness.
Experience a traditional eagle hunting demonstration in Bokonbaevo.
Stay in yurts and guesthouses hosted by local families.
Enjoy authentic Kyrgyz meals prepared with local ingredients.
Discover the red sandstone wonder of Skazka (Fairytale) Canyon.
Hike to Barskoon Waterfall, surrounded by dense pine forest.
See the legendary Jeti-Oguz and the famous “Broken Heart” rock formation.
Travel by 4×4 to the remote valley of Altyn Arashan.
Relax in natural hot springs in a stunning high-mountain setting.
Drive through Semenovka and Grigorevka Gorges, known for their lush meadows and alpine lakes.
Enjoy one last panoramic journey along the northern shore of Issyk-Kul Lake.
As the sun sets, settle into a yurt for the evening. You’ll enjoy a dinner prepared by local hosts, with a chance to interact with them and learn more about their culture. The night will be spent in the comfort of the yurt, surrounded by nature, offering a peaceful and authentic experience of rural Kyrgyzstan.
Lake.
End your day with a traditional dinner at the guesthouse
day.
End your day with a traditional dinner at the restaurant.
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After breakfast in Naryn, we depart for the Bokonbaevo region. Our journey takes us through the stunning and rugged landscapes of the Ak-Say Canyon. Here, you will witness the raw, majestic beauty of Kyrgyzstan’s nature, with its sculpted cliffs and vast, open spaces—a perfect opportunity for breathtaking photography. Upon arrival near Bokonbaevo, we will be treated to a demonstration of one of Central Asia’s most ancient and revered traditions: eagle hunting. You will witness the powerful bond between a hunter and his majestic golden eagle, learning about the techniques and cultural significance of this practice that has been passed down through generations on the Kyrgyz steppe. In the evening, we check into a traditional yurt camp on the southern shore of Issyk-Kul Lake. This is a quintessential Kyrgyz experience, allowing you to immerse yourself in the nomadic lifestyle. Enjoy a hearty dinner and the incredible silence under a vast, star-filled sky. |
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The next stop leads into the Barskoon Gorge, where a well-maintained trail ascends alongside a rushing river to the powerful Barskoon Waterfall. The path, surrounded by pristine nature, builds anticipation until the waterfall reveals itself, cascading down the mountainside. The mist from the crashing water is refreshing, and the thunderous sound fills the gorge. This site is also steeped in history, having been a notable stop on the ancient Silk Road. The iconic “Jeti-Oguz” (Seven Brock formation commands attention—a dramatic, rust-colored cliff face stretching across the horizon. A short distance away, the “Broken Heart” rock formation stands as a popular subject for photographers. You can embark on a hike up the opposing hill for a commanding panoramic view of the entire valley or wander through the lush, pine-dotted meadows at the canyon’s base. The final leg of the journey brings you to Karakol, the most vibrant and culturally diverse town on the shore of Issyk-Kul. The town showcases a unique blend of Russian Orthodox and Dungan Muslim influences. Upon arrival, you can explore the distinctive Dungan Mosque, an architectural marvel built without nails, resembling a Buddhist pagoda, before settling into your accommodation for the evening. |
A day of adventure and relaxation awaits in the Altyn Arashan Valley (translated as “Golden Spa”). The journey begins with a rugged and scenic 4×4 drive from Karakol, traversing a bumpy track that follows the Arashan River deep into the Terskey Ala-Too mountain range. The drive itself is an event, offering stunning views of pine forests, glacial streams, and soaring peaks.
Upon arriving in the high-altitude valley, you find yourself in a pristine alpine paradise surrounded by dramatic, snow-dusted mountains. The main attraction here is the series of natural hot springs, geothermally heated water channeled into simple, open-air pools. Soaking in these warm, mineral-rich waters while surrounded by the crisp mountain air and breathtaking scenery is a quintessential Kyrgyz experience, perfect for soothing muscles after days of trekking and riding.
The valley invites exploration on foot. You can take a gentle walk along the river, breathe in the fresh pine-scented air, and admire the views of the surrounding peaks, including the majestic Palatka (Tent) Peak. The silence is broken only by the sound of the river and the occasional whistle of a marmot. After a full day of immersion in this remote sanctuary, the 4×4 vehicle returns you to the comforts of Karakol for the night.
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The final day of the tour is a grand scenic finale as you journey back to Bishkek along the northern shore of Issyk-Kul Lake. The road itself is a highlight, offering continuous, spectacular views of the lake and the opposite mountain ranges. A key stop is made to explore the stunning Semenovka and Grigorevka Gorges, often considered among the most beautiful in the region. These parallel gorges feature incredibly green, wide valleys carpeted with lush meadows and framed by towering peaks. A short walk from the road leads you to the shores of the crystal-clear, turquoise lakes in Grigorevka, where the scenery is nothing short of picture-perfect. The vast, open space and the sheer scale of the landscapes provide a powerful and lasting final impression of Kyrgyzstan’s natural beauty. The journey continues westward, with the lake remaining a constant companion. You will stop for a final lunch at a local roadside café before the landscape gradually shifts from mountainous terrain to the fertile Chuy Valley. The tour officially concludes upon your arrival in the capital city of Bishkek, where you will be dropped off at a central location, filled with memories of nomadic plains, alpine lakes, and towering canyons. |
Ready to ride into the mountains of Kyrgyzstan?
👉 Fill out our booking form or contact us directly:
📩 kyrgyzwonders@gmail.com
Our team will assist with all details to make your nomadic adventure seamless and unforgettable.
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