From Kyrgyzstan’s majestic mountains and sparkling Issyk-Kul Lake to Kazakhstan’s vast steppes and the breathtaking Charyn Canyon, this group tour combines stunning nature, nomadic traditions, and authentic cultural encounters. Two countries, one adventure – a unique way to explore the heart of Central Asia!
Arrive at any time. Standard check-in at hotel after 14:00. Free time on your own. Welcome meet with the guide and group at 14:00. Briefing about the itinerary & travel plan. City tour in Bishkek. Welcome Dinner in the traditional restaurant where you can taste the national Kyrgyz cuisine. Note: it is highly recommended to book an extra night at the hotel, as most flights to Bishkek arrive late at night or early in the morning.
Breakfast in the hotel. Our journey begins with a visit of the Burana Tower, an ancient minaret in the Chuy Valley in the north part of Kyrgyzstan. The tower with funerary monuments, earthworks, remains of the castle and three mausoleums – that’s all what last out of the ancient Balasagyn town that was founded by Karakhanids at the end of the ninth century. Lunch in the Iskra village with Dungan family, the ethnicity of Chinese Muslims who had to flee China. You taste their national cuisine.
Then departure to Issyk Kul, the largest lake in Kyrgyzstan and one of the deepest in the world. We drive you to the hotel located on the lake shore.
First location at Issyk-Kul lake is visit the petroglyph museum. The 42 hectares of the museum are dotted with stones, tombs, balbals and various petroglyphs dated from the 2nd millennium BC until the 4th century AD.
Breakfast at hotel. Next location is Grigoriev and Semienov gorges. Picnic or lunch in the café on the road. Grigoriev and Semienov gorges are considered as one of the most famous attractions of the Issyk Kol region. You can go for a walk, enjoy the wild nature around you and spend a nice time in this beautiful place. After departure to Karakol, the administrative center of the Issyk-Kol region. Visits in Karakol: - Russian Orthodox cathedral - Dungan mosque
Dungan mosque
After breakfast, we set off from Karakol toward the breathtaking Jeti Oguz Gorge, where nature greets us with the striking red cliffs of the famous “Broken Heart.” Standing at the entrance to the gorge, this dramatic rock formation sets a romantic and mysterious tone for our visit. We’ll enjoy a leisurely hour-long walk, surrounded by fresh mountain air and sweeping views.
Our journey continues to the scenic Barskoon Gorge, a place celebrated for its cascading waterfalls. Among them, the enchanting “Tears of the Snow Leopard” captures both beauty and legend. Midway through the gorge, we’ll come across a unique monument dedicated to Yuri A. Gagarin, the world’s first cosmonaut, standing proudly amid the rugged landscape.
After breakfast, we head towards Kochkor village and pass by the south shore of the lake. On the road we visit the Skazka canyons which translate as the “Fairy Tale”. Here you can find objects of surprising shapes and sizes. A real skyscraper or an animal can appear in front of you.
Next, we meet an eagle hunter with his bird. You can appreciate the alertness and speed of the bird during the hunting. It is one of the oldest traditions of Kyrgyz nomads. Lunch in the guesthouse or café.
Our next stop is Kyzyl Tuu village where the local family reveals the secrets of yurt production. This family is engaged in this unique art from generation to generation. Continue to Kochkor.
After breakfast, we journey along winding mountain roads, climbing higher into the heart of Kyrgyzstan’s wild beauty until we reach the Kalmak Ashu Pass (3,447 m). From this lofty vantage point, Son Kul Lake shimmers in the distance, appearing like a small turquoise jewel set in the vast highland plains. As we descend toward the lake, its true grandeur unfolds — an expansive, dazzling mirror of sky surrounded by rolling green pastures. Upon arrival at our yurt camp, we are welcomed with the warmth and hospitality of the nomads, discovering their centuries-old traditions, way of life, and deep connection to the land. In the evening, we share a hearty dinner before spending the night in authentic yurts under a sky thick with stars.
Spend the morning soaking in all the beauty of Song Kul Lake. We set out for the scenic Chon-Kemin Valley, with a stop in the charming village of Kochkor. Here, we discover the rich tradition of felt-making, an art deeply woven into Kyrgyz culture. Guided by skilled local artisans, we take part in a hands-on workshop, crafting our own miniature ala-kiyiz — the colorful, patterned felt carpet beloved by nomads for generations. Opt for a stroll through the tranquil village, surrounded by sweeping mountain views. Later enjoy savoring a freshly prepared traditional dinner — a perfect ending to a day of culture and beauty.
Our journey to Bishkek takes us through the fertile Chuy Valley, framed by gentle hills and distant mountain peaks. Upon arrival in the capital, enjoy some free time to explore at your own pace. You may wish to browse the bustling local markets or charming souvenir shops — the perfect chance to pick up unique gifts and mementos of your Kyrgyz adventure. Farewell dinner.
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If you cancel at least 6 full day(s) before the scheduled departure time, you will receive a full refund.
If you cancel between 2 and 6 day(s) before the scheduled departure time, you will receive a 50% refund.
If you cancel within 2 day(s) of the scheduled departure, you will receive a 0% refund.
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