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, take an off-road adventure to the natural hot springs of Altyn Arashan, and discover the forested beauty of Chong-Kemin National Park via the scenic Kyrchyn pasture. Experience authentic yurt stays, eagle hunting traditions, and the warm hospitality of nomadic culture.
WHY YOU’LL LOVE THIS TOUR
Your journey begins with a morning pickup from your hotel in Bishkek. Drive east and 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 ancient balbal stones.
Continue south into the Kyrgyz Ala-Too mountains, ascending the scenic Kalmak-Ashuu Pass (3,400m). From the top, enjoy breathtaking views before descending to Song-Kol Lake – a vast turquoise alpine lake surrounded by green meadows and snow-capped peaks.
Settle into a traditional yurt camp on the lakeshore. Enjoy a hearty Kyrgyz dinner and spectacular stargazing.
Summary | Details |
Drive Distance | 320 km |
Drive Time | 5-6 hours |
Activities | Burana Tower, Kalmak-Ashuu Pass, lake arrival |
Accommodation | Yurt Camp at Song-Kol Lake |
Facilities | Shared outdoor WC, basic facilities, no internet |
Meals Included | Lunch, Dinner |
Altitude | 3,016m |
Note | Nights are cold – pack warm layers |
Wake early to witness the sunrise over Song-Kol Lake – a magical moment as the first light touches the water. After breakfast, saddle up for a full day of horse riding around the lake.
Today’s ride is 4-5 hours along the shoreline and into the surrounding hills. The terrain is gentle and suitable for riders of all experience levels. No horse riding experience is required! Our horses are calm and well-trained.
As you ride, you’ll:
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 | 4-5 hours |
Experience Required | None – beginners welcome! |
Activities | Lakeside riding, nomadic family visits |
Accommodation | Yurt Camp at Song-Kol Lake |
Meals Included | Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner |
After breakfast, bid farewell to Song-Kol and drive toward the legendary Ysyk-Kol Lake.
En route, stop at Kajyrty Waterfall – a beautiful cascade tucked in the mountains. Take a short walk to enjoy the refreshing mist and peaceful scenery.
Continue to Ak-Say Canyon – a dramatic landscape of red rock formations sculpted by wind and water. Walk through this “Martian-like” terrain and capture stunning photos.
Arrive in Bokonbaevo on the southern shore of Ysyk-Kol Lake. Check into a lakeside guesthouse.
Summary | Details |
Drive Distance | 200 km |
Drive Time | 4-5 hours |
Activities | Kajyrty Waterfall, Ak-Say Canyon |
Accommodation | Guesthouse in Bokonbaevo |
Facilities | Private bathroom, hot shower, Wi-Fi |
Meals Included | Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner |
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.
Summary | Details |
Drive Distance | 150 km |
Activities | Eagle hunting show, Skazka Canyon, Barskoon Waterfall, Jeti-Oguz Valley |
Accommodation | Guesthouse in Karakol |
Meals Included | Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner |
After breakfast, drive to Karakol, then transfer to a classic Soviet-era 4×4 vehicle for a rugged off-road journey into the Altyn Arashan Valley (“Golden Spa”).
The 16-kilometer off-road journey winds through dense pine forests, crosses mountain streams, and climbs through dramatic terrain.
Upon arrival in the pristine alpine valley (2,500m), enjoy the famous 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.
Summary | Details |
4×4 Drive | 16 km off-road |
Activities | Soviet vehicle adventure, natural hot springs |
Accommodation | Guesthouse in Altyn Arashan Valley |
Facilities | Shared bathroom, basic facilities |
Meals Included | Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner |
Essential | Bring your swimsuit! |
After breakfast, descend from Altyn Arashan and drive to Karakol.
From Karakol, continue your journey along the scenic northern shore of Ysyk-Kol Lake toward Chong-Kemin National Park. En route, stop at Kyrchyn Pasture – a beautiful valley famous for hosting the World Nomad Games. The rolling green hills and panoramic mountain views are spectacular.
Continue to Chong-Kemin National Park, a protected natural area known for its pristine beauty – forests, rivers, and dramatic mountain scenery.
Check into a forest guesthouse for the night.
Summary | Details |
Drive Distance | 200 km |
Drive Time | 4-5 hours |
Activities | Kyrchyn Pasture, scenic drive |
Accommodation | Guesthouse in Chong-Kemin National Park |
Facilities | Private bathroom, hot shower, limited Wi-Fi |
Meals Included | Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner |
After breakfast, depart Chong-Kemin and drive to Bishkek (approximately 2-3 hours).
Upon arrival, enjoy a city tour exploring the capital’s highlights:
The tour concludes with drop-off at your hotel or Manas International Airport.
Summary | Details |
Drive Distance | 150 km |
Drive Time | 2-3 hours |
Activities | Bishkek city tour |
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!
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 |
Swimsuit | Essential for Altyn Arashan hot springs! |
Footwear
Item | Why |
Sturdy closed-toe shoes | For horse riding (small heel recommended) |
Comfortable walking shoes | For evenings and canyon walks |
Hiking boots | For waterfall and canyon walks |
Essential Gear
Item | Why |
Daypack (20-30L) | Carry water, camera, layers during activities |
Reusable water bottle | Stay hydrated (1-2 liters) |
Headlamp or flashlight | For yurt stay |
Power bank | Charge devices |
Sunscreen (SPF 30+) | Intense sun at altitude |
Sunglasses | UV protection |
Sleeping bag liner | Extra warmth in yurt |
Wet wipes & hand sanitizer | For freshening up |
Cash (USD or KGS) | For souvenirs, tips |
No Horse Riding Experience Required!
Question | Answer |
Do I need experience? | No – calm horses for beginners |
What if I’m nervous? | Guide gives instructions and matches you with a gentle horse |
Physical Requirements
Accommodation
Type | Facilities |
Guesthouses | Private bathroom, hot shower, Wi-Fi |
Yurt Camp | Shared outdoor WC, no shower, wood stove |
Travel Insurance
Mandatory – must cover horse riding and medical evacuation
IMPORTANT NOTES
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