The jailoos are the pastures where Kyrgyz shepherds tend their flocks in the summer, and Son-Kul is the jewel of the jailoos, a stunning 270 km2 of sparkling water at 3016 m, surrounded by 3700 m mountains on all sides. For the fullest jailoo experience, approach the lake via the mountains enclosing the western end of Kochkor Valley, moving from jailoo to jailoo and staying with shepherd families in remote meadows far off the beaten path. Enjoy homemade jam, fresh cream, bread still warm from the oven, and the best kymyz (fermented mare’s milk) around. The route traverses remote Jumgal rayon, and reaches Son-Kul via Jalgyz-Karagai (Lonely Fir) pass on the north shore.

Itinerary

Day 1: Kochkor - Kyzart Pass - Kilemche 

After breakfast at Kochkor we head towards the west on the Kochkor - Jumgal road. Arrive at the Kyzart Pass, where you start the horseback riding.  Ride through the Kyzyl-Kiya jailoo, an enormous, relatively flat sea of grass. Continue over the Chaar-Archa Pass (3 061 m) into the Chaar-Archa Valley and have lunch by the racing river, with views of holy 4400 m Baba-Ata Mountain. Cross the river and follow the trail over verdant hills to Kilemche valley. Dine and sleep in a yurt. Horseback riding time: 5 hours 

Day 2: Kilemche - Song-Kol 

After breakfast at Kilemche, spend the morning climbing to Jalgyz Karagai pass (3400 m), over the Son-Kul Mountains and into the lake’s basin. The morning climb offers wonderful views of Kilemche jailoo, and the pass itself is rocky and exciting. Enjoy the panoramic view of the lake and descend to the lakeshore. Have lunch at Jaman Echki, follow the eastern shoreline of the lake to Batai-Aral. You will be greeted by the warmth and hospitality of a Kyrgyz shepherd family, eager to share their traditions and way of life with you. Dine and overnight in a yurt. 

Day 3: Song-Kol - Kochkor 

Take the opportunity to relax by spending some time at the lakeside, enjoying its refreshing ambiance. Have lunch and transfer to Kochkor (3 hours) via Kalmak-Ashuu pass (3446m). Arrive in Kochkor village with unforgettable memories. End of the tour. 

Inclusions:

• Transportation   
• Accommodation: 2 nights in a yurt
• Meals: Full board
• English speaking guide 
• Horses
• Mineral water 

Exclusions:

• Travel insurance
• International flight
• Visa support 
• Tax of bank
• Other services out of the program.

Price

• 1 person = $450
• 2 people = $280 per person
• 3 people = $250 per person
• 4 people = $230 per person
• 5-10 people = $210 per person
• 11 and more = $200 per person