"Kol-Ukok," meaning "The Lake in a Chest*," lies nestled between the steep slopes of the North-Eastern Terskei Ala Too Mountains, creating a picturesque haven. The lake's waters, cool and invigorating, reach a maximum depth of 17 meters. A diverse aquatic community thrives beneath the surface, featuring the graceful white fish and the majestic Savan trout, adorned with vibrant hues.

The lakeshore beckons with its serene and tranquil ambiance, offering a refuge from the outside world. En route to the lake, encounters with marmots and badgers punctuate the journey, while the symphony of mountain birds' melodic tunes or the regal calls of eagles, hawks, and griffins echo through the air. The realm is shared with inhabitants such as wolves, jackals, foxes, hares, and mountain goats, creating a harmonious balance in this natural sanctuary.

Nature's artistic touch is evident in the surrounding landscape, adorned with an array of captivating flowers, ranging from delicate forget-me-nots to the legendary edelweiss. Among these, plants like rhubarb and wild garlic have long served as vital sources of nutrients for generations. The warmth of hospitality awaits from the locals, descendants of ancient nomads who migrate with their cattle to this region from May to October.

Embarking on this immersive journey, you'll witness the shepherd's way of life, steeped in customs and family traditions. The tour unfolds the traditional production of Kyrgyz milk products, from the tangy kymyz (fermented mare milk) to the creamy airan (Kyrgyz yogurt) and the savory kurut (dried salty cheese). Additionally, you'll have the opportunity to observe the artistry of milking cows and horses and savor the aroma of freshly baked bread, completing the sensory tapestry of this enriching experience.
* Chest - a box made of wood that nomads used to keep their belongings

Itinerary 

Day 1: Bishkek – Kochkor – Lake Kol-Ukok

Begin your adventure at 8:00 am, departing from Bishkek towards Isakeev village in the Kochkor region. The 210-kilometer journey unfolds along smooth roads, promising a comfortable 3-hour ride. By 11:00 am, you will reach the starting point, where your seasoned guide and trusty steeds eagerly await. After a brief orientation on horseback riding, set off towards the Ters-Tor gorge, a scenic route that unfolds over the course of an hour. Pause by the Ters-Tor river for a delightful lunch (picnic), reflecting on your initial foray into horseback riding and refining your fundamental equestrian skills. Post-lunch; resume your journey astride your faithful companions, making your way towards the enchanting Lake Kol-Ukok. Dine and sleep in a yurt of local family. 

Day 2: Kol-Ukok – Kochkor – Bishkek

After breakfast you can already get a view of of the glacier mountain lake Kol-Tor from the surrounding mountains. To explore this second lake, you need to ride up half the way by horseback riding. For the last 200m distance take a hike up to the lake on the altitude of 3400m above sea level. Immerse yourself in the breathtaking natural splendor before retracing your steps to the yurt for a satisfying lunch. As the afternoon unfolds, mount your steeds once more, retracing your path back to Isakeev. From there, journey back to Bishkek, arriving around 8:00 pm, brimming with memories of an unforgettable Kyrgyzstan's rugged landscapes.

Inclusions:

• Accommodation (Sleep in a yurt)
• Meals: 1 lunch, 1 dinner, 1 breakfast
• English speaking guide 
• Transport to/back 
• Mineral water 

Exclusions:

• Travel insurance
• Picnic 
• Flight tickets
• Visa support 
• Tax of bank
• Other services out of the program.

Start planning your adventure today! Curious about our offerings?  Drop us a message for pricing. We are here to customize your dream trip!