Winter Tour of Kyrgyzstan: Burana Tower, Issyk-Kul & Chon-Kemin

Depart Bishkek in the morning and travel toward Lake Issyk-Kul. En route, visit the Burana Tower archaeological site near Tokmok. Explore the historic minaret, the open-air collection of balbals and the small museum before continuing through the Boom Gorge toward Bokonbaevo. A lunch stop will be made along the way.
On arrival, meet a local host for a demonstration of traditional Kyrgyz yurt construction. Learn about the yurt’s design, interior and role in nomadic life. Later, visit a local hot-spring facility on the southern shore of Issyk-Kul. Dinner and overnight stay in Bokonbaevo.
Distance: Approximately 300–350 km
Driving time: Approximately 6–7 hours
Meals: Breakfast before departure; lunch at a local café en route; dinner in Bokonbaevo
Overnight: Yurt camp in Bokonbaevo
Altitude: Approximately 1,650–1,800 m above sea level

After breakfast, travel east along the southern shore of Issyk-Kul to Skazka Canyon, also known as Fairytale Canyon. Take a walk among its colourful sandstone formations, shaped by wind and water, and enjoy views of the surrounding landscape.
Return toward Bokonbaevo for a golden-eagle demonstration with a local berkutchi, a traditional eagle hunter. After lunch, continue to Chon-Kemin via Balykchy and the scenic Boom Gorge. Arrive in the valley in the evening and check in to a local guesthouse.
Distance: Approximately 250–300 km, including the visit to Skazka Canyon
Driving time: Approximately 5–6 hours
Meals: Breakfast at the accommodation; lunch at a local café; dinner in Chon-Kemin
Overnight: Guesthouse in Chon-Kemin
Altitude: Skazka Canyon — approximately 1,600–1,800 m; Chon-Kemin — approximately 1,500–1,700 m above sea level

Enjoy breakfast and a relaxed morning in Chon-Kemin. Depending on your interests and departure time, take a short walk in the valley or arrange an optional horseback ride. Later, return to Bishkek through the Boom Gorge. The tour ends with drop-off at your hotel, the airport or another agreed location.
Distance: Approximately 150–165 km
Driving time: Approximately 2.5–3 hours, excluding stops
Meals: Breakfast at the guesthouse; lunch in Bishkek at guests’ own expense
Overnight: None; the tour ends in Bishkek
Altitude: Chon-Kemin — approximately 1,500–1,700 m; Bishkek — approximately 800 m above sea level
Optional activities: Short walk in the valley or horseback riding in Chon-Kemin. Horseback riding should be arranged in advance; availability and cost should be confirmed.