This 7-day journey takes you through the wild heart of Kyrgyzstan. Ride horses to the celestial alpine pastures of Song-Kol Lake, explore the dramatic red rock canyons of Ysyk-Kol’s southern shore, trek to the natural hot springs of Altyn Arashan, and discover the forested beauty of Chong-Kemin National Park. Experience authentic yurt stays, eagle hunting traditions, and the warm hospitality of nomadic culture. With flexible trekking options, this tour adapts to your comfort level while delivering an unforgettable adventure.
WHY YOU’LL LOVE THIS TOUR
Your journey begins with a morning pickup from your hotel in Bishkek. Drive south toward the dramatic Too Ashuu Pass (3,200m). The winding road offers spectacular views of alpine meadows, rugged peaks, and winding valleys. Stop at the summit for breathtaking photos.
Descend through the pass and continue to Kyzyl-Oi Village, a charming mountain settlement nestled in a valley, off the main tourist trail. Check into a local guesthouse, then take a leisurely walk around the village – an authentic glimpse into rural Kyrgyz life.
Enjoy a home-cooked dinner and overnight at the guesthouse.
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Summary |
Details |
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Drive Distance |
200 km |
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Drive Time |
4-5 hours |
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Activities |
Too Ashuu Pass scenic stop, village walk |
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Accommodation |
Guesthouse in Kyzyl-Oi Village |
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Facilities |
Shared bathroom, hot shower, Wi-Fi |
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Meals Included |
Lunch, Dinner |
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Altitude |
Too Ashuu Pass: 3,200m / Kyzyl-Oi: 1,800m |
After breakfast, drive 1 hour to Kyzart Village, the gateway to Song-Kol Lake. Here you’ll meet your horse and guide for the next two days. No horse riding experience is required! Our horses are calm and well-trained.
Today’s ride to Song-Kol Lake is 5-6 hours through alpine landscapes. The trail ascends gradually, rewarding you with breathtaking views of the turquoise lake set in a bowl of green meadows, surrounded by snow-capped peaks.
Settle into a traditional yurt camp on the lakeshore. Enjoy a hearty Kyrgyz dinner and spectacular stargazing.
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Summary |
Details |
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Drive to Kyzart |
1 hour |
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Horse Riding |
5-6 hours |
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Experience Required |
None – beginners welcome! |
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Accommodation |
Yurt Camp at Song-Kol Lake |
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Facilities |
Shared outdoor WC, basic facilities, no internet |
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Meals Included |
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner |
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Altitude |
3,016m |
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Note |
Nights are cold – pack warm layers |
After breakfast, enjoy a final morning ride back to Kyzart Village (4-5 hours gentle descent). Bid farewell to your horses and horseman.
Enjoy lunch in Kyzart, then board your vehicle for the drive to Bokonbaevo on the southern shore of Ysyk-Kol Lake (approximately 3-4 hours).
Check into a lakeside guesthouse with beautiful views of the “Pearl of Central Asia.”
|
Summary |
Details |
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Horse Riding |
4-5 hours (gentle descent) |
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Drive Distance |
180 km |
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Drive Time |
3-4 hours |
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Accommodation |
Guesthouse in Bokonbaevo |
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Facilities |
Private bathroom, hot shower, Wi-Fi |
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Meals Included |
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner |
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Note |
Hot shower and Wi-Fi – a welcome comfort! |
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.
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.
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Summary |
Details |
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Drive Distance |
150 km |
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Activities |
Eagle hunting show, Skazka Canyon, Barskoon Waterfall, Jeti-Oguz Valley |
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Accommodation |
Guesthouse in Karakol |
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Meals Included |
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner |
After breakfast, drive to to Ak-Suu Village – the starting point for your trek. Begin your trek to Altyn Arashan Valley (approximately 4-5 hours).
The trail follows the Arashan River upstream through dense pine forests, past glacial streams and waterfalls, with increasingly dramatic mountain views.
Upon arrival in the pristine Altyn Arashan Valley (2,500m), you’ll find the famous natural hot springs. Soak in the mineral-rich waters surrounded by snow-capped peaks including Palatka Peak (5,200m). This is the perfect reward after your trek.
Stay overnight in a guesthouse in the valley.
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Summary |
Details |
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Drive to Trailhead |
1.5 hours |
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Trekking |
4-5 hours |
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Activities |
Alpine trek, natural hot springs |
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Accommodation |
Guesthouse in Altyn Arashan Valley |
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Facilities |
Shared bathroom, basic facilities |
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Meals Included |
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner |
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Altitude |
2,500m |
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Essential |
Bring your swimsuit! |
After breakfast, enjoy a final morning soak in the hot springs, then trek back to Ak-Suu Village (approximately 4 hours descent).
Transfer to your vehicle and drive to Chong-Kemin National Park (approximately 3-4 hours). This protected natural area is known for its pristine beauty – forests, rivers, and dramatic mountain scenery.
Check into a forest guesthouse, offering a tranquil setting surrounded by pine trees and mountain views. Enjoy dinner and the peaceful atmosphere.
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Summary |
Details |
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Trekking |
4 hours (descent) |
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Drive Distance |
150 km |
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Drive Time |
3-4 hours |
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Accommodation |
Guesthouse in Chong-Kemin National Park |
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Facilities |
Private bathroom, hot shower, limited Wi-Fi |
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Meals Included |
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner |
After breakfast, depart Chong-Kemin and drive to Bishkek. En route, stop at the historic Burana Tower, an 11th-century Silk Road minaret. Climb the tower for panoramic views and explore the ancient balbal stones.
Upon arrival in Bishkek, enjoy a city tour exploring the capital’s highlights:
The tour concludes with drop-off at your hotel
This tour is 100% customizable! You can:
Just tell us your wishes, and we will create your perfect Kyrgyzstan adventure!
Clothing – Layering System
|
Item |
Why |
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Moisture-wicking base layers |
Keeps you dry while riding/trekking |
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Fleece or insulated jacket |
Warmth on cool days |
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Waterproof & windproof jacket |
Protection from rain and wind |
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Comfortable trekking pants |
Avoid jeans – they chafe while riding |
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Warm sweater, thermal underwear |
Nights at altitude can drop below freezing |
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Sun hat + warm hat |
Sun protection + warmth |
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Light gloves |
For cool mornings |
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Swimsuit |
Essential for Altyn Arashan hot springs! |
Footwear
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Item |
Why |
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Sturdy hiking boots (broken in) |
Essential for trekking |
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Sturdy closed-toe shoes |
For horse riding (small heel recommended) |
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Comfortable walking shoes |
For evenings |
Essential Gear
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Item |
Why |
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Daypack (20-30L) |
Carry water, camera, layers during activities |
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Reusable water bottle |
Stay hydrated (1-2 liters) |
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Headlamp or flashlight |
For yurt stay |
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Power bank |
Charge devices |
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Sunscreen (SPF 30+) |
Intense sun at altitude |
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Sunglasses |
UV protection |
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Sleeping bag liner |
Extra warmth in yurt |
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Wet wipes & hand sanitizer |
For freshening up |
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Cash (USD or KGS) |
For souvenirs, tips |
No Experience Required!
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Question |
Answer |
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Do I need horse riding experience? |
No – calm horses for beginners |
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What if I’m nervous? |
Guide gives instructions and matches you with a gentle horse |
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Is trekking difficult? |
Moderate – 4-5 hours with breaks |
Physical Requirements
Accommodation
|
Type |
Facilities |
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Guesthouses |
Private bathroom, hot shower, Wi-Fi |
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Yurt Camp |
Shared outdoor WC, no shower, wood stove |
Travel Insurance
Mandatory – must cover horse riding, trekking, and medical evacuation
IMPORTANT NOTES
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