Kazakhstan & Kyrgyzstan Grand Adventure | 21-Day Private Tour |

Upon arrival at Almaty International Airport, you will be warmly welcomed by your private driver/guide before transferring to your hotel in the city center.
Depending on your arrival time, begin your Central Asian adventure with a relaxed sightseeing tour of Kazakhstan's cultural capital. Visit the colorful Green Bazaar, where local vendors sell fresh fruits, dried nuts, spices, traditional sweets, and handmade souvenirs. Continue to Panfilov Park and admire the famous Zenkov Cathedral, one of the tallest wooden churches in the world built entirely without nails.
If time permits, take the cable car to Kok-Tobe Hill for panoramic views over Almaty and the snow-covered Tian Shan Mountains. In the evening, enjoy a welcome dinner featuring traditional Kazakh cuisine while your guide introduces you to the exciting journey ahead.
Accommodation: Guest house in Almaty
Meals: Dinner
Driving Distance: Airport transfer only (20–30 km)
Driving Time: 30–40 minutes
Maximum Altitude: 900 m
Road Conditions: Excellent paved city roads.
Notes:
• Airport meet & greet
• Green Bazaar
• Panfilov Park
• Zenkov Cathedral
• Kok-Tobe Hill (optional)
• Traditional Kazakh dinner

After breakfast, leave Almaty and head east through the vast Kazakh steppe toward one of the country's most spectacular natural wonders—Charyn Canyon National Park.
Upon arrival, explore the famous Valley of Castles, where millions of years of erosion have sculpted towering sandstone formations into dramatic natural castles and towers. Enjoy a scenic hike along the canyon floor, photograph the colorful cliffs, and take in breathtaking panoramic viewpoints.
After lunch, continue through picturesque mountain landscapes to the peaceful village of Saty, the gateway to Kazakhstan's most beautiful alpine lakes. Surrounded by forests and mountains, Saty is an ideal place to relax before tomorrow's adventure.
Dinner will be served at a cozy local guesthouse, where you will enjoy homemade Kazakh cuisine prepared with fresh local ingredients.
Accommodation: Traditional Guesthouse, Saty Village
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Driving Distance: 310 km
Driving Time: 5–6 hours
Maximum Altitude: 1,700 m
Road Conditions: Excellent asphalt roads throughout.
Notes:
• Charyn Canyon National Park
• Valley of Castles hike (2–3 km)
• Photography stops
• Scenic viewpoints
• Traditional village experience

Today is dedicated to exploring two of the most spectacular alpine lakes in Central Asia.
After breakfast, drive to Kolsai Lake National Park, where crystal-clear waters reflect dense pine forests and the surrounding Tian Shan Mountains. Enjoy a leisurely walk along the shoreline or, for those wishing to explore further, hike deeper into the valley for even more spectacular viewpoints.
Following lunch, transfer into specially prepared Soviet-style 4×4 vehicles for the off-road journey to the famous Kaindy Lake. The drive itself is an adventure, passing through rugged mountain tracks before reaching one of Kazakhstan's most unique landscapes. Kaindy Lake is renowned for its submerged spruce forest, where the trunks of ancient trees rise dramatically from the turquoise water.
Guests may also enjoy an optional horse ride around the lake before returning to Saty Village for dinner.
Accommodation: Traditional Guesthouse, Saty Village
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Driving Distance: 80 km
Driving Time: 2–3 hours
Maximum Altitude: 2,000 m
Road Conditions: Asphalt roads combined with rough off-road tracks to Kaindy Lake.
Notes:
• Kolsai Lake National Park
• Kaindy Lake
• 4×4 adventure
• Optional horse riding
• Short hiking opportunities
• Picnic lunch
• Excellent landscape photography

After breakfast, leave Kazakhstan and travel towards the Karkara border crossing before entering Kyrgyzstan. Along the way, enjoy spectacular mountain scenery and wide alpine valleys that once formed part of the ancient Silk Road.
Following immigration formalities, continue through the beautiful Karkara Valley before arriving in Karakol, the cultural capital of eastern Kyrgyzstan.
In the afternoon, visit the beautifully preserved Dungan Mosque, built entirely without nails by Chinese craftsmen, followed by the impressive Russian Orthodox Holy Trinity Cathedral. Finish the day with dinner at one of Karakol's famous traditional local restaurants.
Accommodation: Traditional Guesthouse, Karakol
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Driving Distance: 290 km
Driving Time: 6–7 hours
Maximum Altitude: 1,850 m
Road Conditions: Good asphalt roads; border crossing may require waiting time.
Notes:
• Kazakhstan–Kyrgyzstan border crossing
• Karkara Valley
• Dungan Mosque
• Holy Trinity Cathedral
• Local cuisine experience

After breakfast, transfer to the starting point of the Altyn Arashan trail. Begin a scenic hike through spruce forests, mountain rivers, wooden bridges, and beautiful alpine landscapes on your way to the spectacular Altyn Arashan Valley.
Surrounded by snow-capped peaks rising above 5,000 meters, enjoy one of Kyrgyzstan's most beautiful mountain valleys. Upon arrival, relax in the famous natural hot springs or explore the surrounding alpine meadows before enjoying a traditional dinner.
Accommodation: Guesthouse, Altyn Arashan
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Hiking Distance: Approx. 14 km
Hiking Time: 4–6 hours
Maximum Altitude: 2,600 m
Highlights:
Hike to Altyn Arashan Valley
Alpine forests and mountain rivers
Natural hot springs
Traditional mountain guesthouse
Spectacular alpine scenery

After an early breakfast, continue your trek from Altyn Arashan to the breathtaking Ala-Kul Lake. The trail climbs through alpine meadows and rocky mountain terrain before reaching the spectacular turquoise lake at an altitude of 3,560 meters.
Spend time enjoying panoramic glacier views, photographing one of Kyrgyzstan's most iconic mountain landscapes, and relaxing in the peaceful alpine environment before overnighting at a tent camp near the lake.
Accommodation: Tent Camp near Ala-Kul Lake
Meals: Breakfast, Picnic Lunch, Dinner
Hiking Distance: Approx. 12–15 km
Hiking Time: 6–8 hours
Maximum Altitude: 3,560 m
Highlights:
Trek to Ala-Kul Lake
High mountain landscapes
Glacier and alpine lake views
Picnic lunch
Overnight in a mountain tent camp

After breakfast, descend from Ala-Kul Lake through the beautiful Karakol Gorge. Meet your 4×4 driver at the trailhead and continue to the famous Jeti-Oguz Gorge, home to the striking Seven Bulls and Broken Heart rock formations.
After exploring the gorge, drive along the southern shore of Issyk-Kul Lake to the picturesque Barskoon Gorge, where you will enjoy dinner and overnight at a cozy guesthouse surrounded by mountain scenery.
Accommodation: Guesthouse, Barskoon Gorge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Hiking Distance: Approx. 14–16 km
Driving Distance: Approx. 180 km
Driving Time: 4–5 hours (after the hike)
Highlights:
Hike through Karakol Gorge
Meet with 4×4 driver
Jeti-Oguz Gorge
Seven Bulls Rock
Broken Heart Rock
Scenic drive along Issyk-Kul Lake
Overnight in Barskoon Gorge

This morning continue west along the southern shore of Issyk-Kul Lake towards one of Kyrgyzstan's most colorful natural attractions—Skazka (Fairytale) Canyon.
Spend time exploring the maze of vibrant red, orange, and yellow sandstone formations sculpted by centuries of wind and erosion into fantastic castles, towers, and mythical creatures. The canyon offers excellent opportunities for photography and easy hiking.
After lunch, continue to Bokonbayevo, a village famous for preserving Kyrgyz nomadic traditions. Here you will meet a local eagle hunter and learn about the centuries-old tradition of hunting with golden eagles. Depending on the season, you may witness a live eagle hunting demonstration and learn about the training of these magnificent birds.
Before sunset, enjoy a peaceful walk along the shores of Issyk-Kul Lake.
Accommodation: Yurt Camp in the southern shore of Issyk Kul lake.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Driving Distance: 130 km
Driving Time: 3–4 hours
Maximum Altitude: 1,800 m
Road Conditions: Excellent paved roads.
Notes:
• Skazka (Fairytale) Canyon
• Easy hiking
• Eagle hunting demonstration
• Issyk-Kul lakeshore

After breakfast, depart Bokonbayevo and begin one of the most spectacular mountain journeys in Kyrgyzstan. Travel along the southern shore of Issyk-Kul Lake before ascending the breathtaking Kalmak Ashuu Pass, one of the country's most scenic high-altitude roads and the main gateway to Song-Kol Lake.
As the road climbs above the tree line, enjoy panoramic views of rolling alpine meadows, dramatic mountain ridges, and vast summer pastures where herds of horses, sheep, and yaks graze freely. Stop at several scenic viewpoints to admire the untouched landscapes before descending towards the shores of Song-Kol Lake.
Upon arrival at Song-Kol Lake (3,016 m), you will be warmly welcomed by a local nomadic family at a traditional yurt camp. Spend the afternoon exploring the lakeshore, meeting local shepherds, and experiencing the unique lifestyle of the Kyrgyz nomads. Before dinner, you may choose to enjoy an optional horseback ride across the surrounding jailoo (summer pastures).
As night falls, witness an unforgettable sunset over the lake and admire one of the clearest star-filled skies in Central Asia.
Accommodation: Traditional Yurt Camp
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Driving Distance: Approx. 260 km
Driving Time: 6–7 hours
Maximum Altitude: 3,447 m (Kalmak Ashuu Pass)
Road Conditions: Good asphalt roads followed by mountain gravel roads over Kalmak Ashuu Pass.
Notes:
Kalmak Ashuu Pass
Song-Kol Lake
Scenic mountain viewpoints
Nomadic family experience
Sunset photography
Stargazing
Traditional yurt accommodation

Wake up to the peaceful atmosphere of Song-Kol Lake and enjoy a traditional breakfast at your yurt camp. This morning, set out on a scenic horseback ride across the vast alpine pastures toward Kyzart Village, following ancient nomadic trails surrounded by rolling hills, grazing horses, and spectacular mountain scenery.
After the ride, enjoy lunch before saying farewell to Song-Kol Lake. In the afternoon, continue by vehicle through breathtaking mountain landscapes towards the charming village of Kyzyl-Oi, passing dramatic gorges, winding mountain roads, and picturesque shepherd settlements along the way.
Arrive in Kyzyl-Oi by late afternoon and settle into a cozy local guesthouse. Enjoy a traditional homemade dinner while experiencing the warm hospitality of a Kyrgyz family.
Accommodation: Guesthouse, Kyzyl-Oi
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Driving Distance: Approx. 140 km
Driving Time: 3–4 hours
Horse Riding: 2–3 hours
Maximum Altitude: 3,016 m (Song-Kol Lake)
Road Conditions: Gravel roads around Song-Kol followed by mountain asphalt and gravel roads.
Notes:
Horse riding to Kyzart Village
Song-Kol Lake
Scenic mountain drive
Traditional nomadic landscapes
Kyzyl-Oi Village
Local family guesthouse
Traditional Kyrgyz cuisine
Spectacular mountain photography

Today is dedicated to one of Kyrgyzstan's most exciting cultural experiences—the Kyrgyz National Horse Games. After breakfast, spend the entire day at the festival grounds, where local horsemen gather to celebrate the country's rich nomadic heritage through traditional equestrian competitions.
Depending on the official program, enjoy spectacular demonstrations of Kok Boru, long-distance horse races, Er Enish (horseback wrestling), mounted archery, and other traditional games. Stroll through local handicraft stalls, sample authentic Kyrgyz cuisine, meet local families, and experience the vibrant atmosphere of this unique cultural event.
This is a fantastic opportunity to witness centuries-old traditions, capture unforgettable photographs, and gain a deeper understanding of Kyrgyz nomadic life.
In the evening, return to your guesthouse and enjoy a traditional homemade dinner prepared by your hosts.
Accommodation: Guesthouse, Kyzyl-Oi
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Driving Distance: Minimal local driving
Driving Time: Minimal
Maximum Altitude: Approx. 1,800 m
Road Conditions: Local paved and gravel roads.
Notes:
Kyrgyz National Horse Games
Kok Boru
Horse Racing
Er Enish (Horseback Wrestling)
Mounted Archery
Traditional Music & Dance
Local Handicrafts
Authentic Kyrgyz Cuisine
Cultural Photography Opportunities

Following breakfast, continue west through some of Kyrgyzstan's most scenic mountain landscapes. The road winds through the vast Suusamyr Valley, famous for its endless green meadows, grazing horses, and panoramic mountain scenery.
Stop at several viewpoints overlooking traditional summer pastures before crossing high mountain passes and descending towards the enormous Toktogul Reservoir, Kyrgyzstan's largest artificial lake. Its deep blue waters, surrounded by rugged mountains, create one of the country's most picturesque landscapes.
Enjoy lunch at a local café before continuing to Toktogul town. In the late afternoon, take a relaxing walk along the lakeshore or simply enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.
Dinner features traditional Kyrgyz cuisine, including freshly prepared lamb, salads, homemade bread, and seasonal produce.
Accommodation: Guesthouse in Toktogul
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Driving Distance: 250 km
Driving Time: 5–6 hours
Maximum Altitude: 2,200 m
Road Conditions: Mostly excellent asphalt with mountain curves.
Notes:
• Suusamyr Valley
• Toktogul Reservoir
• Scenic viewpoints
• Local villages
• Mountain photography
• Optional lakeside walk

After breakfast, drive south towards one of Kyrgyzstan's least-visited natural treasures—Sary-Chelek Biosphere Reserve, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve famous for its untouched forests, crystal-clear lakes, and exceptional biodiversity.
Upon arrival, begin exploring the reserve with an easy hike through walnut forests and alpine meadows leading to spectacular viewpoints overlooking the emerald waters of Sary-Chelek Lake. Depending on available time and weather conditions, additional viewpoints over the reserve's smaller lakes can also be visited.
The peaceful surroundings provide excellent opportunities for birdwatching, wildlife observation, and landscape photography.
Dinner and overnight at a cozy guesthouse operated by a local family.
Accommodation: Guesthouse, Sary-Chelek
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Driving Distance: 270 km
Driving Time: 5–6 hours
Maximum Altitude: 1,940 m
Road Conditions: Good asphalt roads with the final section on mountain gravel roads.
Notes
• UNESCO Biosphere Reserve
• Sary-Chelek Lake
• Short hiking trails
• Forest walks
• Wildlife observation
• Landscape photography

After breakfast, depart Sary-Chelek and travel through the fertile Fergana mountain region towards the legendary village of Arslanbob, home to the world's largest natural walnut forest.
Spend the afternoon exploring the forest with a local guide. Visit the famous Small Waterfall and, for those wishing to hike a little further, continue to the impressive Big Waterfall, surrounded by towering cliffs and dense woodland.
Visit a local family to experience traditional village life and enjoy homemade Kyrgyz dishes prepared using locally grown ingredients. Learn about walnut harvesting traditions, which have been passed down through generations for centuries.
The peaceful atmosphere of Arslanbob offers a completely different side of Kyrgyzstan compared to the alpine landscapes visited earlier in the journey.
Accommodation: Guesthouse, Arslanbob
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Driving Distance: 170 km
Driving Time: 4–5 hours
Maximum Altitude: 1,600 m
Road Conditions: Mostly asphalt roads with short local gravel sections.
Notes:
• World's largest natural walnut forest
• Small Waterfall
• Big Waterfall (optional hike)
• Local family visit
• Traditional Kyrgyz lunch
• Village walking tour
• Homemade walnut products

Following breakfast, continue south towards Osh, one of Central Asia's oldest continuously inhabited cities and an important Silk Road trading center for more than 3,000 years.
Upon arrival, visit the UNESCO-listed Suleiman-Too Sacred Mountain, an important pilgrimage site offering magnificent panoramic views over the city and surrounding Fergana Valley. Explore the museum located inside the mountain before walking through Osh's lively central bazaar, one of the largest traditional markets in Central Asia.
Discover local bakeries, spice stalls, handicraft shops, and traditional Uzbek restaurants, where you will enjoy dinner featuring freshly prepared plov, shashlik, and handmade lagman noodles.
The evening is free to explore Osh's lively streets or relax at your hotel.
Accommodation: Guesthouse, Osh
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Driving Distance: 180 km
Driving Time: 3–4 hours
Maximum Altitude: 1,100 m
Road Conditions: Excellent paved roads.
Notes:
• Suleiman-Too UNESCO World Heritage Site
• Osh Bazaar
• Silk Road history
• Local handicrafts
• Traditional Uzbek cuisine
• City walking tour

Today is one of the most scenic and adventurous drives of the expedition. After breakfast, leave the fertile Fergana Valley behind and begin climbing into the rugged interior of Kyrgyzstan.
The road winds through spectacular mountain landscapes, crossing several dramatic passes before reaching the remote region of Kazarman. This little-visited part of the country offers an authentic glimpse into rural Kyrgyz life, far away from the usual tourist routes.
Along the journey, stop at panoramic viewpoints overlooking deep river gorges, alpine valleys, and remote villages where traditional nomadic lifestyles continue largely unchanged. Depending on the season, shepherds can often be seen moving their livestock across the mountains, providing excellent opportunities for photography.
Enjoy a picnic lunch surrounded by pristine nature before continuing through one of Kyrgyzstan's most scenic mountain roads.
Arrive in Kazarman in the late afternoon and relax at a cozy local guesthouse, where a homemade dinner featuring traditional Kyrgyz cuisine will be served.
Accommodation: Guesthouse, Kazarman
Meals: Breakfast, Picnic Lunch, Dinner
Driving Distance: 300 km
Driving Time: 7–8 hours
Maximum Altitude: Approx. 3,400 m (Mountain Pass)
Road Conditions: Mountain asphalt with several gravel sections and winding roads.
Notes:
• Scenic mountain passes
• Remote villages
• Panoramic viewpoints
• Nomadic shepherds
• River valleys
• Photography stops
• One of Kyrgyzstan's most scenic drives

After breakfast, continue your journey across the heart of the Tian Shan Mountains towards Naryn.
Today's drive follows spectacular river valleys before ascending the famous Moldo-Ashu Pass, offering breathtaking panoramic views over endless mountain ranges. This road is considered one of Kyrgyzstan's finest scenic drives, with numerous opportunities to stop for photographs and short walks.
Continue along the mighty Naryn River, the longest river in Kyrgyzstan, flowing through dramatic canyons and wide alpine valleys.
Arrive in Naryn, a charming provincial town known as the gateway to the country's highest mountain regions. Depending on arrival time, enjoy a relaxed walk through the town or visit the riverside promenade before dinner.
Accommodation: Guesthouse, Naryn
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Driving Distance: 300 km
Driving Time: 7–8 hours
Maximum Altitude: 3,200 m
Road Conditions: Good asphalt mountain roads with occasional rough sections.
Notes:
• Moldo-Ashu Pass
• Naryn River
• Mountain panoramas
• Local villages
• Scenic photography
• Riverside walk (optional)

Following breakfast, leave the mountains behind and travel north towards Bishkek through the fertile Chuy Valley.
En route, visit the legendary Burana Tower, one of the most important historical monuments in Central Asia and the last remaining structure of the ancient Silk Road city of Balasagun. Climb the medieval minaret for panoramic views before exploring the archaeological site, ancient balbal stone statues, and the small museum.
Continue to Bishkek, the vibrant capital of Kyrgyzstan. Upon arrival, enjoy an introductory city tour including Ala-Too Square, Oak Park, Victory Square, and the city's wide Soviet-style boulevards.
Dinner will be served at one of Bishkek's finest traditional restaurants.
Accommodation: Guesthouse, Bishkek
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Driving Distance: 330 km
Driving Time: 5–6 hours
Maximum Altitude: 2,000 m
Road Conditions: Excellent paved highways.
Notes:
• Burana Tower (UNESCO Tentative Site)
• Balbal stone statues
• Silk Road history
• Ala-Too Square
• Oak Park
• Victory Square
• Bishkek city tour

After breakfast, drive to Ala Archa National Park, located just 45 minutes south of Bishkek. Nestled in the Tian Shan Mountains, the park is renowned for its dramatic alpine scenery, crystal-clear rivers, glaciers, and towering peaks rising above 4,800 meters.
Enjoy a scenic hike through the spectacular gorge, following the Ak-Sai River past dense juniper forests and alpine meadows. Depending on the group's fitness level, several hiking options are available, ranging from gentle valley walks to more challenging mountain trails leading toward waterfalls and glacier viewpoints.
Following a picnic lunch surrounded by pristine mountain scenery, return to Bishkek.
The afternoon is free for shopping at Osh Bazaar, visiting local souvenir shops, or relaxing at one of the city's cafés before a farewell dinner celebrating your unforgettable Central Asian adventure.
Accommodation: Guesthouse, Bishkek
Meals: Breakfast, Picnic Lunch, Dinner
Driving Distance: 90 km
Driving Time: 2 hours
Walking Distance: 5–12 km (depending on chosen trail)
Maximum Altitude: Approx. 2,600 m
Road Conditions: Excellent paved roads.
Notes:
• Ala Archa National Park
• Mountain hiking
• Glacier viewpoints
• Ak-Sai River
• Wildlife observation
• Osh Bazaar
• Farewell dinner

After breakfast, depart Bishkek and begin the final scenic drive back to Kazakhstan. Cross the Kyrgyz–Kazakh border before continuing across the open steppe towards Almaty.
Depending on the border crossing time, there may be an opportunity to stop at local roadside markets selling fresh fruit, honey, traditional snacks, and handmade souvenirs.
Upon arrival in Almaty, check into your hotel and enjoy a free afternoon for independent exploration. You may choose to revisit the Green Bazaar, stroll through the city's parks, enjoy local cafés, or simply relax after three unforgettable weeks exploring Central Asia.
In the evening, gather for a farewell dinner at one of Almaty's excellent restaurants to celebrate the successful completion of your expedition.
Accommodation: Guesthouse, Almaty
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Driving Distance: 250 km
Driving Time: 5–6 hours
Maximum Altitude: 1,200 m
Road Conditions: Excellent paved highways.
Notes:
• Kyrgyzstan–Kazakhstan border crossing
• Scenic steppe landscapes
• Free time in Almaty
• Last-minute shopping
• Farewell dinner

After breakfast, enjoy a relaxed morning depending on your flight schedule.
At the appropriate time, your private driver will transfer you to Almaty International Airport for your departure flight.
As your unforgettable journey through Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan comes to an end, take with you lasting memories of spectacular mountain landscapes, crystal-clear alpine lakes, authentic nomadic traditions, warm local hospitality, and extraordinary adventures across the heart of Central Asia.
We hope to welcome you back again for another adventure in the future.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: —
Transfer: Guesthouse – Almaty International Airport
Driving Time: 30–45 minutes
Road Conditions: Excellent paved city roads.
Notes:
• Private airport transfer
• End of services
• Assistance with departure procedures (if required)
• Departure from Almaty International Airport