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.

Itinerary

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

  • All transfers
  • Meals as specified in the itinerary
  • English-speaking guide for the whole trip
  • Entrance fees to all mentioned sites
  • Mineral water
  • Eagle hunting show
  • Felt carpet workshop in Kochkor

Exclusions

  • Travel insurance
  • International/domestic flight tickets
  • Accommodation in Bishkek 
  • Alcoholic beverages
  • Bank transfer fees
  • Services not mentioned in the program

Daily driving distances and times are arranged to ensure a comfortable pace with sufficient breaks

DayDistance (km)Driving Time (including stops)
Day 11104 hours
Day 22656 hours
Day 31504.5 hours
Day 42807 hours
Day 51404.5 hours
Day 63607 hours
Day 73040 minutes

Price 

Standard cost for the tour is (USD):

  • 1 person - US$ 2250
  • 2 people = US$ 1200 per person
  • 3 people = US$ 1000 per person
  • 4 people = US$ 800 per person
  • 5-6 people = US$ 750 per person

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