Lakes, mountains and Kyrgyz

Embark on an unforgettable “Lakes, Mountains and Kyrgyz” tour through Kyrgyzstan’s diverse landscapes and rich heritage. From pristine alpine lakes to towering mountain peaks, this tour offers an unparalleled opportunity to experience the country’s natural beauty and deep-rooted nomadic traditions. Here’s a glimpse of what you can expect:

Highlights of Lakes, mountains and Kyrgyz:

1. Son-Kul Lake
   Known for its breathtaking altitude and serene surroundings, Son-Kul Lake offers an authentic experience of Kyrgyz nomadic life. Set against the backdrop of high mountain peaks, this picturesque lake is a perfect place for horse riding, stargazing, and experiencing the traditional yurt camps where you’ll spend a night under the stars.

2. Tash-Rabat Caravanserai
   Step back in time as you visit Tash-Rabat, a 15th-century caravanserai that once served as a key stop along the ancient Silk Road. This historic structure, built into the mountainside, is a reminder of Kyrgyzstan’s central role in global trade and cultural exchange.

3. Issyk-Kul Lake
   Often called the “Pearl of Central Asia,” Issyk-Kul is the second-largest saltwater lake in the world and a popular destination for travelers seeking beauty and tranquility. Surrounded by snow-capped mountains, the lake offers opportunities for boat rides, hiking, and visits to nearby petroglyph sites.

4. Nomadic Culture
   Kyrgyzstan’s rich nomadic heritage comes alive as you stay in traditional yurts, enjoy local meals cooked over an open fire, and meet artisans crafting items from felt, wood, and wool. This is a unique chance to immerse yourself in a culture that has survived for centuries.

5. Horseback Riding & Scenic Hikes
   Kyrgyzstan is known as the “Land of the Horse,” and what better way to explore its vast landscapes than on horseback? Traverse expansive meadows, gallop through valleys, and ride along mountain passes with expert guides. For those who prefer to explore on foot, guided hikes will reveal hidden gems in the country’s rugged mountains and valleys.

Ready for your adventure “Lakes, mountains and Kyrgyz”?
Pack your bags and prepare for a once-in-a-lifetime journey through the heart of Central Asia. This is more than a trip—it’s a chance to step into a world where history, culture, and nature intertwine in the most spectacular ways.

Here is the program by day hs03d14en

Day 1 / Arrival in Bishkek:

Arrival in Bishkek, greeted by your guide at the airport. Transfer to the city center for rest in a guesthouse. Later, drive 150 km to the village of Chon Kemin. Arrive mid-afternoon, take a 2-hour walk to explore the village. Dinner and overnight stay with a local family.

Day 2 / Transfer to Karakol:

After breakfast, leave the guesthouse for a hike in the red canyon of Konorchek. Lunch at a restaurant in Cholpon Ata or earlier. Continue to Karakol, located at the far end of Issyk-Kul Lake. Arrive, take a stroll around the town, and stay overnight at a guesthouse. Dinner included. (180 km)

Day 3 / Jeti Oguz Valley:

Start the day with a trek from the Irdik Valley, a lush green pasture at the base of the Teskey Ala Too Range. Pass through meadows and forests to reach the iconic red rocks of Jeti Oguz Valley. Picnic en route. Meet your driver near the Jeti Oguz sanatorium. 30-minute transfer to the yurt camp for overnight stay and dinner.

Day 4 / Transfer to Issyk-Kul’s South Shore:

Morning horseback ride over a 2800m pass into the Sutuu Bulak Valley. Meet your driver for a picnic lunch and continue to a yurt camp in Bokonbaeva. Arrive in the evening, with dinner and overnight in a yurt. (100 km)

Day 5 / Beach Day:

Visit a traditional eagle hunter to learn about their craft and the role of birds of prey in nomadic life. Take a hike through an arid landscape to a scenic beach for a picnic. Return to the same yurt camp in Bokonbaeva for dinner and overnight stay.

Day 6 / Transfer to Tash-Rabat:

Morning visit to a yurt craftsman for a demonstration. Continue to Kochkor for lunch with a Dungan family. Drive through the Dolon Pass (3030m) and reach Tash-Rabat, a 14th-century stone fortress, by late afternoon. Overnight and dinner in a yurt at 3200m. (320 km)

Day 7 / Horseback Ride:

Explore the pastures of the yaks on horseback, reaching a 4000m pass with panoramic views of Chatyr-Kul Lake. Picnic at the summit before returning to the yurt camp. Along the way, encounter herds of yaks. Dinner and overnight in the same yurt camp.

Day 8 / Transfer to Son-Kul Lake:

Head to Son-Kul Lake, a summer paradise for nomads. Drive via Naryn and the Moldo Ashu Pass to reach the lake at 3016m. Dinner and overnight in a yurt camp.

Day 9 / Free Day at Son-Kul Lake:

Explore the life of nomads at your leisure, visiting yurts and searching for petroglyphs. Picnic in the mountains. Optional horse rental and riding available. Watch demonstrations of traditional equestrian games. Overnight in the same yurt camp.

Day 10 / Transfer to Kizil Oy:

Drive over the Kara-Keche Pass (3325m), with a panoramic view of the coal mines below. Descend through the canyon into the Jumgal Valley. Picnic by the Kokomeren River before arriving at the charming village of Kizil Oy. Dinner and overnight stay with a local family.

Day 11 / Explore Kizil Oy Village:

Take a morning hike in the hills around the village, known for its warm summers. Lunch at the guesthouse. Spend the afternoon by the Kokomeren River. Dinner and overnight at the same location.

Day 12 / Off-Road to Toktogul:

Embark on a rugged off-road journey over Kirk Kiz Pass (3000m), traversing rivers, slopes, pastures, and nomadic camps. Meet locals and see their herds. Picnic on the way before arriving in Toktogul, a town near a reservoir. Dinner, overnight stay, and a performance of traditional Kyrgyz music.

Day 13 / Ak Kol Lake:

Morning drive (40 km) to begin a trek to Ak Kol Lake at 2800m. Enjoy a picnic by this alpine lake. Return to the vehicle and spend the evening at the beach. Dinner and overnight at the same guesthouse.

Day 14 / Return to Bishkek:

Drive back to Bishkek (4 hours). Lunch at a local restaurant, followed by free time for shopping or packing. Dinner at a restaurant and overnight in a guesthouse. (200 km)