
from $80.00
Trekking tour to the scenic lake Kol-Ukok / 2 days
Trekking
This tour takes you deep into the heart of Kyrgyzstan, offering a rich mix of nature, history, and local traditions. You will visit mountain lakes like Issyk-Kul and Son-Kul, explore dramatic gorges and valleys, and hike through alpine landscapes. Along the way, you will stay in yurts, enjoy home-cooked meals with local families, watch eagle hunting demonstrations, and see how traditional felt carpets are made. From vibrant markets in Bishkek to peaceful nights under the stars, this journey offers a genuine taste of Kyrgyz life and its stunning natural beauty.
Day 1: Arrival in Bishkek
Upon arrival in airport, you will be transferred to the city and check into your hotel by 14:00. After a short rest, begin a sightseeing tour of the city’s main attractions, including Oak Park, Ala-Too Square, the Philharmonic Hall, the Manas Statue, Victory Square, and the vibrant Osh Bazaar. Enjoy your dinner at a local ethno-style restaurant.
Meals: Breakfast
Day 2: Bishkek – Issyk-Kul Lake
In the morning, depart for Issyk-Kul Lake (260 km), one of the largest alpine lakes in the world. Along the way, visit the historic Burana Tower, a remnant of the ancient city of Balasagyn. Lunch en-route in café. Continue to Cholpon-Ata and explore the open-air petroglyph museum featuring ancient rock carvings dating from 500 BC to 100 AD, depicting animals, hunting scenes, and rituals. Visit the local history museum before enjoying dinner and an overnight stay at the guesthouse on the northern shore of Issyk-Kul.
Meals: Breakfast
Day 3: Cholpon-Ata – Karakol
After breakfast, travel along the northern shore of Issyk-Kul Lake. Stop at the scenic Kyrchyn Gorge, known for hosting nomadic festivals. Take a short walk and tea break surrounded by alpine landscapes. Arrive in Karakol around lunchtime and try a local specialty - ashlyan-fu, a cold, spicy noodle soup. In the afternoon, visit the colorful Dungan Mosque and the historic Russian Orthodox Church. Enjoy a traditional dinner at a local ethno-style restaurant. Overnight at a hotel in Karakol.
Meals: Breakfast
Day 4: Karakol – Kochkor
Drive along the southern shore of Issyk-Kul Lake (280 km) toward Kochkor. On the way, stop at Skazka (fairy tale) canyon, known for its dramatic red rock formations. Continue to Bokonbaevo for an eagle hunting demonstration and lunch. Upon arrival in Kochkor, visit a local felt workshop to see how traditional Kyrgyz felt carpets are made. Enjoy dinner with a local family and spend the night in a family-run guesthouse.
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Day 5: Kochkor – Son-Kul Lake
After breakfast, transfer to Son-Kul Lake (140 km), located at 3,016 m above sea level. Spend the day experiencing nomadic life - ride horses, observe edelweiss flowers and learn about making kymyz (fermented mare’s milk). Son-Kul’s high-altitude plains are dotted with yurts and grazing animals during summer. Enjoy dinner and stay overnight in a traditional yurt camp.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 6: Son-Kul – Bishkek
Return to Bishkek (360 km), with a lunch stop along the way. The afternoon is free for shopping or relaxing. In the evening, enjoy a farewell dinner. Overnight at a hotel or guesthouse.
Meals: Breakfast
Day 7: Departure from Bishkek
Transfer to the airport (30 km). We hope you leave with wonderful memories of Kyrgyzstan’s stunning nature, rich culture, and warm hospitality. Safe travels and we hope to see you again!
Inclusions
Exclusions
Daily driving distances and times are arranged to ensure a comfortable pace with sufficient breaks
Day | Distance (km) | Driving Time (including stops) |
---|---|---|
Day 1 | 110 | 4 hours |
Day 2 | 265 | 6 hours |
Day 3 | 150 | 4.5 hours |
Day 4 | 280 | 7 hours |
Day 5 | 140 | 4.5 hours |
Day 6 | 360 | 7 hours |
Day 7 | 30 | 40 minutes |
Standard cost for the tour is (USD):
Trekking
Horseback riding
Combined
Cultural tour
Combined
Cultural tour
Cultural tour
Horseback riding
Combined
Combined
Trekking