Meet you at the airport or at your hotel. We begin our adventure by driving through the majestic Too-Ashuu Pass (3,180 m), offering stunning panoramic views of the Suusamyr Valley below. We descend into this vast alpine pasture, dotted with yurts and grazing herds, and continue to the quaint village of Kyzyl-Oy (1,800 m). On the way, we stop at the Kojomkul Museum, dedicated to a legendary strongman.
Meals: Lunch, Dinner.
Accommodation: Local guesthouse in Kyzyl-Oy.
Distance: ~220 km.
Altitude: From 800 m (Bishkek) to ~1,800 m (Kyzyl-Oy)

Today’s scenic drive takes us over the Kara-Keche Pass (3,380 m), one of Kyrgyzstan’s wildest and most rugged routes. By lunch, we arrive at the breathtaking Son-Kul Lake (3,016 m), a high-altitude jewel surrounded by summer nomadic camps. Afternoon walking or option to ride horses among real shepherds. Enjoy a warm welcome in traditional yurts, then spend the evening immersed in nomadic culture amid sweeping grasslands and serene mountain air.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
Accommodation: Traditional yurt camp on the shores of Son-Kul.
Distance: ~200 km
Altitude: From 1,800 m to ~3,016 m (Son-Kul)

Saddle up for a day-long horseback trek through mountain passes and rolling pastures as we descend from Son-Kul to Kyzart Village (~2,200 m). Your luggage will be carried by car to the village. This peaceful ride allows for deep connection with nature and nomadic traditions, accompanied by local horsemen.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
Accommodation: Guesthouse in Kyzart.
Distance (on horseback): ~20 km
Altitude Change: From 3,016 m to ~2,200 m

We journey southeast through Kochkor Village, where we will have option to visit a handicraft center to see traditional felt-making (optional). We drive along the Orto-Tokoy Reservoir, keeping an eye out for wild camels grazing nearby. By afternoon, we arrive at Issyk-Kul Lake’s southern shore, known for its tranquility and clear water — perfect for a swim.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
Accommodation: Yurt camp by Issyk-Kul Lake
Distance: ~200 km / 4-5 hrs of driving
Altitude Descent: From ~2,200 m to ~1,600 m

A day rich in culture and natural wonders. We begin with a demonstration of traditional eagle hunting (1 hour), then explore the surreal red sandstone formations of Skazka (Fairytale) Canyon. We continue through the majestic Jeti-Ögüz Mountains (Broken Heart Rock), famous for the “Seven Bulls” rock formations, before arriving in Karakol, a charming town nestled between the lake and the mountains.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
Accommodation: Guesthouse in Karakol.
Distance: ~190 km.
Altitude: ~1,700 m (Karakol).

Start the day with a cultural tour: the local Museum, Dungan Mosque, and the Russian Orthodox Church. After lunch in the village of Aksuu, we start our hike to the Altyn Arashan(2,450 m) valley, if you don’t like walking we can organise optional horse riding or rental of Soviet military truck. Here, thermal springs, pine forests, and towering peaks create an idyllic mountain retreat. Soak in hot springs and relax in the peaceful valley.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
Accommodation: Guesthouse in Altyn Arashan valley.
Distance: ~40 km (20 km drive + 14 km hike or off-road).
Altitude Gain: From 1,700 m to ~2,450 m.

Today we embark on a challenging and rewarding horseback trek (~20 km round-trip) to the stunning Ala-Kul Lake, a glacial lake at ~3,500 m tucked into the heart of the Terskey Ala-Too range. Picnic lunch with a view. This full-day excursion offers awe-inspiring views and unforgettable mountain scenery.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Return to Altyn Arashan guesthouse
Distance (on horseback): ~20 km round-trip
Altitude Gain: From 2,450 m to ~3,500 m

After breakfast, we descend back to Aksuu 3 - 4 hours by foot ( option to rent horses or take a Soviet 4×4 truck) meet our driver. We then journey along the northern shore of Issyk-Kul Lake, known for its beaches and resorts. Arrive in the lakeside resort town of Cholpon-Ata (~1,650 m). Visit the Petroglyph Open-Air Museum. If the weather allows possibility to ride a boat. Enjoy the beach and the city.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Guesthouse in Cholpon-Ata
Distance: ~220 km / 4-5 hrs of driving
Altitude: ~1,650 m

Enjoy a relaxing morning on the shores of Issyk-Kul Lake (alt. 1,607 m). Take time to swim in its crystal-clear waters or explore the cultural highlights of Cholpon-Ata. You may visit the Ruh Ordo Cultural Center, a unique complex reflecting spiritual diversity, as well as local museums and the lively bazaar. Cholpon-Ata is also known as the main host city of the World Nomad Games.
After lunch, depart for Chon-Kemin National Park. On the way, stop to explore the dramatic landscapes of Kok-Moynok Canyon, famous for its red sandstone formations. Continue driving through scenic mountain valleys until you arrive at the national park (alt. 1,700–2,200 m).
Driving distance: ~130 km
Driving time: 2.5–3 hours
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Guest house in Chon Kemin

After breakfast, enjoy a peaceful morning in the Chon-Kemin valley (alt. 1,700–2,200 m), surrounded by forested hills and wide alpine meadows. You may ride a horse or take a short walk around the village or simply relax and appreciate the quiet nature.
Depart from Chon-Kemin and drive toward Burana Tower, an ancient 11th-century minaret and one of Kyrgyzstan’s most important historical monuments. Explore the open-air museum of balbals (stone warriors) and learn about the ancient city of Balasagun, a key center on the Silk Road.
Then, continue your journey to Bishkek (alt. 800 m), arriving in the afternoon/evening. Check-in at the hotel and enjoy free time to rest or stroll around the city.
Driving distance: ~160 km
Driving time: 3–3.5 hours
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch. Dinner not included.
Accommodation: Hotel in Bishkek

A moderate fitness level is required for this tour.
Days 3 and 7 include long horseback rides (6–8 hours) through mountain passes.
Some walking on uneven terrain is expected throughout the trip.
You will spend time at high altitudes, including:
Son-Kul Lake: 3,016 m
Ala-Kul Pass area: up to ~3,900 m
Previous horse-riding experience is helpful but not necessary. Basic instructions will be provided.

A valid passport with at least 6 months of validity after your departure date.
Visa requirements depend on your nationality — please check with your local Kyrgyz embassy or consulate.

Please ensure you pack the following essentials:
Clothing
Warm layers — nights at Son-Kul and Altyn Arashan can drop close to 0°C, even in summer
Thermal or fleece jacket
Comfortable hiking or trekking shoes
Waterproof jacket / rain poncho
Light t-shirts and layers for warm daytime temperatures
Hat, sunglasses, sunscreen
Other Essentials
Daypack
Reusable water bottle
Swimsuit (Issyk-Kul Lake & optional hot springs)
Power bank (electricity is limited in remote areas)
Personal medications
Small first-aid kit (your guide also carries one)

Kyrgyzstan is a hospitable but conservative country, especially in rural areas.
Please respect local traditions, families, and nomadic culture.
Ask permission before photographing people, especially elders.
Modest clothing is recommended when visiting villages, religious sites, and family homes.

During this tour, you will stay in a combination of:
Hotels
Family-run guesthouses
Traditional yurt camps (Son-Kul & Altyn Arashan)
Important notes:
Yurt camps and remote guesthouses may have basic shared facilities.
Hot showers may be limited or available at scheduled times.
Mobile network and internet are weak or unavailable at Son-Kul and Altyn Arashan.
Yurts are warm and comfortable but not hotel-level accommodation — this is part of the authentic nomadic experience.

The tour includes three meals per day, mostly local homemade Kyrgyz cuisine.
Expect soups, rice dishes, dumplings, fresh bread, salads, and tea.
Vegetarian meals can be arranged with prior notice.
Vegan/gluten-free options may be limited in rural areas — please inform us of dietary needs in advance.

Transportation will be by private minivan or 4×4 vehicle depending on group size.
The roads to Son-Kul (via Kara-Keche Pass) and to Altyn Arashan are bumpy, unpaved, and slow — this is normal for these regions.
For Altyn Arashan, an optional Soviet off-road truck may be used for comfort or convenience.
Driving times can vary depending on weather and road conditions.

Summer season (June–September) offers ideal conditions for travel.
Daytime temperatures range from 15–30°C, depending on location.
At high altitudes, nights may drop to 0–8°C.
Mountain weather changes quickly — expect sun, wind, rain, or even light snow.

Please inform us in advance of any medical conditions, allergies, or dietary restrictions.
High altitudes may affect some travelers. Drink plenty of water and ascend slowly — your itinerary is designed to reduce altitude stress.
Your guide carries a first-aid kit and is trained in mountain terrain safety.

Please help us protect Kyrgyzstan’s fragile mountain environment:
Do not leave litter
Use water responsibly
Respect wildlife and nomadic property
Support local communities by purchasing handmade crafts directly from artisans when possible

Toilets at Son-Kul are outside (eco-toilets)
Hot showers not guaranteed at Son-Kul
Altyn Arashan has limited hot water

Most yurts do not have electricity or charging points
Charging available only in dining yurt (solar power)

Tap water is not recommended for drinking. Bottled or filtered water is provided.

In case of altitude sickness, extra horse or car will be arranged.