This 7-day journey takes you through the wild heart of Kyrgyzstan. Ride horses to the celestial alpine pastures of Song-Kol Lake, visit the remote turquoise borderland waters of Kel-Suu Lake, and explore the dramatic red rock canyons of Ysyk-Kol’s southern shore. Experience authentic yurt stays, eagle hunting traditions, and the warm hospitality of nomadic culture. With flexible riding options for beginners, this tour adapts to your comfort level while delivering an unforgettable adventure in the heart of Central Asia.
HIGHLIGHTS OF THE TOUR
Your journey begins with a morning pickup from your hotel in Bishkek. Drive to Kyzart Village (approximately 3-4 hours). The route takes you through scenic mountain landscapes and traditional villages.
Upon arrival in Kyzart, meet your horse and guide for the next two days. No horse riding experience is required! Our horses are calm and well-trained, and your guide will give you a brief instruction before starting.
Begin your horseback journey with a gentle 4-5 hour ride to Kilemche Valley (2,600m). The trail follows the Chaar-Archa River through rolling hills and alpine meadows. The pace is slow and relaxed, giving you time to build confidence and enjoy the stunning scenery.
Settle into a traditional yurt camp for the night. Enjoy dinner prepared by local hosts, learning about nomadic culture firsthand.
|
Summary |
Details |
|
Drive Distance |
250 km |
|
Drive Time |
3-4 hours |
|
Horse Riding |
4-5 hours (gentle terrain) |
|
Experience Required |
None – beginners welcome! |
|
Accommodation |
Yurt Camp in Kilemche Valley |
|
Facilities |
Shared outdoor WC, no shower, no internet |
|
Meals Included |
Lunch, Dinner |
|
Altitude |
2,600m |
After breakfast at the yurt camp, saddle up for today’s ride to Song-Kol Lake.
Today’s ride is 5-6 hours through alpine landscapes. The trail ascends to the Jalgyz-Karagay Pass (3,400m), rewarding you with breathtaking first views of Song-Kol Lake below – a vast turquoise expanse set in a bowl of green meadows, surrounded by snow-capped peaks.
Descend to the lakeshore for lunch at a traditional yurt camp. After lunch, enjoy a relaxed ride along the lake’s western shore, visiting a local nomadic family’s camp to observe traditional herding and dairy production.
Return to your yurt camp for a hearty Kyrgyz dinner. As night falls, the lack of light pollution offers spectacular stargazing.
|
Summary |
Details |
|
Horse Riding |
5-6 hours |
|
Highest Point |
3,400m (Jalgyz-Karagay Pass) |
|
Accommodation |
Yurt Camp at Song-Kol Lake |
|
Facilities |
Shared outdoor WC, basic facilities, Megacom connection |
|
Meals Included |
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner |
|
Altitude |
3,016m at lake |
|
Note |
Nights are cold – pack warm layers |
After breakfast, bid farewell to Song-Kol Lake. Drive to Naryn city for lunch, then continue to Tash-Bashat Village (approximately 4-5 hours total drive).
The route takes you through scenic mountain landscapes and traditional villages.
Tash-Bashat is a village deeply connected to Kyrgyz traditions. Check into a guesthouse – your first night with private facilities and Wi-Fi after the yurt camps. Enjoy dinner and a comfortable rest.
|
Summary |
Details |
|
Drive Distance |
200 km |
|
Drive Time |
4-5 hours |
|
Accommodation |
Guesthouse in Tash-Bashat |
|
Facilities |
Private bathroom, hot shower, Wi-Fi |
|
Meals Included |
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner |
|
Note |
Hot shower and Wi-Fi – a welcome comfort! |
Today’s off-road adventure takes you deeper into the mountains toward remote Kel-Suu Lake, near the Chinese border. A border permit is required and included.
The drive (approximately 5-6 hours) takes you through the beautiful At-Bashy Valley, crossing Kyndy Pass (3,500m). Descend into the vast Ak-Say Valley, where you’ll see traditional yurts and herders tending to yaks and horses.
Arrive at your yurt camp near Kel-Suu Lake in the late afternoon. After visiting Kel suu lake,and coming back to yurtcamp.
|
Summary |
Details |
|
Drive Distance |
180 km |
|
Drive Time |
5-6 hours (off-road) 4-5 trekking time |
|
Accommodation |
Yurt Camp near Kel-Suu Lake |
|
Facilities |
Shared outdoor WC, no shower, no internet |
|
Meals Included |
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner |
|
Note |
Border permit included – keep passport ready |
After breakfast, depart Kel-Suu and drive north toward the legendary Ysyk-Kol Lake.
The drive takes you through Naryn City and over scenic mountain passes to the southern shore of Ysyk-Kol Lake (approximately 5-6 hours).
Arrive in Bokonbaevo, a village on the southern shore famous for eagle hunting traditions. Check into a lakeside guesthouse with beautiful views of the “Pearl of Central Asia.” Note:Long Driving
|
Drive Distance |
250 km |
|
Drive Time |
5-8 hours |
|
Accommodation |
Guesthouse in Bokonbaevo |
|
Facilities |
Private bathroom, hot shower, Wi-Fi |
|
Meals Included |
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner |
|
Altitude |
Ysyk-Kol: 1,607m |
Today you’ll explore the spectacular southern shore of Ysyk-Kol Lake.
Start with a captivating eagle hunting demonstration with a local berkutchi – an ancient nomadic tradition passed down through generations. Watch as the magnificent golden eagle responds to its master’s commands.
Continue to Skazka Canyon (“Fairy Tale Canyon”) – a surreal landscape of wind-sculpted sandstone in vibrant red, orange, and yellow hues, resembling castles, dragons, and mythical creatures.
Visit Barskoon Waterfall – a powerful cascade in a lush gorge. A short hike brings you close enough to feel the refreshing mist.
Drive to Jeti-Oguz Valley, famous for its dramatic red rock formations – the iconic “Seven Bulls” and the legendary “Broken Heart” rock.
Return to your guesthouse in Karakol for overnight.
|
Summary |
Details |
|
Drive Distance |
150 km |
|
Activities |
Eagle hunting show, Skazka Canyon, Barskoon Waterfall, Jeti-Oguz |
|
Accommodation |
Hotel in Karakol |
|
Meals Included |
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner |
After breakfast, begin your journey back to Bishkek.
Stop at the historic Burana Tower, an 11th-century Silk Road minaret. Climb to the top for panoramic views of the Chuy Valley and explore the open-air museum featuring balbals (ancient Turkic grave markers).
Continue to Bishkek (approximately 1.5 hours from Burana). The tour concludes with drop-off at your hotel or Manas International Airport.
|
Summary |
Details |
|
Drive Distance |
450 km |
|
Drive Time |
5-6 hours |
|
Activities |
Burana Tower climb, balbal stones |
|
Meals Included |
Breakfast, Lunch |
|
Tour Ends |
Bishkek (late afternoon) |
This tour is 100% customizable! You can:
Just tell us your wishes, and we will create your perfect Kyrgyzstan adventure!
During the tour, meals feature local Central Asian dishes prepared with fresh regional ingredients. Vegetarian meals can be arranged upon request — please notify us in advance about any dietary preferences or allergies.
• Major towns and cities accept credit and debit cards, but in villages and remote areas, cash in Kyrgyz Som (KGS) is essential. Budgeting around USD 10-20 per day is usually enough for small personal purchases.
• Mobile internet works well in cities but can be unstable or unavailable in high mountain regions. For better coverage, we recommend buying a local SIM card.
Suggested mobile provider: MEGACOM
• The electrical system operates on 220V with Type C and Type F sockets (standard European plugs). Please bring an adapter if your devices require one.
• We strongly advise having travel insurance that includes emergency medical care and coverage for outdoor and adventure activities.
• Kyrgyz and Russian are the main languages spoken. While English is commonly used in tourist areas, learning a few simple local words can enhance communication in rural communities.
• Currency exchange at the airport usually offers lower rates. For better value, exchange money at banks or licensed exchange offices in Bishkek. Your guide can help arrange this if needed.
Clothing – Layering System
|
Item |
Why |
|
Moisture-wicking base layers |
Keeps you dry while riding |
|
Fleece or insulated jacket |
Warmth on cool days |
|
Waterproof & windproof jacket |
Protection from rain and wind |
|
Comfortable trekking pants |
Avoid jeans – they chafe while riding |
|
Warm sweater, thermal underwear |
Nights at altitude can drop below freezing |
|
Sun hat + warm hat |
Sun protection + warmth |
|
Light gloves |
For cool mornings while riding |
Footwear
|
Item |
Why |
|
Sturdy closed-toe shoes |
Essential for horse riding (small heel recommended) |
|
Comfortable walking shoes |
For evenings and village walks |
|
Hiking boots |
For Kel-Suu trek (optional) |
Essential Gear
|
Item |
Why |
|
Daypack (20-30L) |
Carry water, camera, layers during rides |
|
Reusable water bottle |
Stay hydrated at altitude (1-2 liters) |
|
Headlamp or flashlight |
Essential for yurt stays (no electricity) |
|
Power bank |
Charge devices – limited outlets |
|
Sunscreen (SPF 30+) |
Intense sun at high altitude |
|
Sunglasses |
UV protection |
|
Sleeping bag liner |
Extra warmth and cleanliness in yurts |
|
Wet wipes & hand sanitizer |
For freshening up (no showers in yurts) |
|
Cash (USD or KGS) |
For souvenirs, tips, optional activities |
No Horse Riding Experience Required!
|
Question |
Answer |
|
Do I need experience? |
No – our horses are calm and well-trained for beginners |
|
What if I’m nervous? |
Your guide will give instructions and match you with a gentle horse |
|
Can I walk instead? |
Yes – you can hike while others ride (speak with guide in advance) |
Physical Requirements
Accommodation
|
Type |
Facilities |
|
Guesthouses |
Private bathroom, hot shower, Wi-Fi, comfortable beds |
|
Yurt Camps |
Shared outdoor WC, no shower, no electricity, wood stove for heat |
Food & Water
Mandatory – must cover horse riding and medical evacuation
IMPORTANT NOTES
WhatsApp us
