KAZAKHSTAN & KYRGYZSTAN GRAND DISCOVERY

Upon arrival at Almaty International Airport, you will be warmly welcomed by your local representative before being transferred to your hotel. After some time to relax, begin your journey through Central Asia with a guided tour of Kazakhstan's cultural capital. Wander through the leafy avenues of Panfilov Park, admire the remarkable wooden Zenkov Cathedral, one of the tallest wooden churches in the world, and visit Republic Square, the symbolic heart of modern Kazakhstan. Continue to the bustling Green Bazaar, where the aromas of local spices, dried fruits, and traditional delicacies offer a true taste of local life, before stopping at the renowned Rakhat Chocolate Shop, a favorite among both locals and visitors.
This relaxed introduction provides the perfect first impression of Kazakhstan's rich history, vibrant culture, and warm hospitality.
Distance: Approx. 35 km
Driving Time: 1–1.5 hours
Highest Altitude: 900 m
Road Condition: Excellent asphalt roads
Accommodation: 3★ / 4★ Hotel – Almaty
Meals: Breakfast (CP)
Highlights:
Airport Meet & Greet
Panfilov Park
Zenkov Cathedral
Republic Square
Green Bazaar
Rakhat Chocolate Shop

After breakfast, leave the city behind and journey into the spectacular Tian Shan Mountains, where breathtaking alpine scenery awaits. Your first stop is the legendary Medeu Ice Skating Rink, beautifully nestled among towering mountain peaks. From here, board the scenic cable car ascending to Shymbulak Mountain Resort, one of Central Asia's premier alpine destinations.
Enjoy panoramic views stretching across snow-capped summits, deep valleys, and endless mountain ridges while breathing the crisp alpine air. Whether relaxing at one of the mountain cafés or simply soaking in the scenery, today's excursion offers a perfect balance of nature, comfort, and unforgettable landscapes before returning to Almaty.
Distance: Approx. 70 km
Driving Time: 2–3 hours
Highest Altitude: 3,200 m
Road Condition: Excellent mountain asphalt road
Accommodation: 3★ / 4★ Hotel – Almaty
Meals: Breakfast (CP)
Highlights:
Medeu Ice Rink
Shymbulak Mountain Resort
Scenic Cable Car
Tian Shan Mountains
Panoramic Viewpoints

Today's journey reveals two of Kazakhstan's most iconic natural treasures. Travel through the vast Kazakh steppe to the magnificent Charyn Canyon, a geological wonder often compared to the Grand Canyon. Walk through the dramatic Valley of Castles, where towering red sandstone cliffs sculpted over millions of years create an unforgettable landscape.
Later, continue to the peaceful shores of Kolsai Lake, often called the "Pearl of the Northern Tian Shan." Surrounded by dense pine forests and rugged mountain peaks, the lake offers a tranquil setting for a leisurely walk and spectacular photography. As the sun begins to set over the mountains, arrive in the charming village of Saty for an overnight stay.
Distance: Approx. 320 km
Driving Time: 5–6 hours
Highest Altitude: 1,818 m
Road Condition: Excellent asphalt roads
Accommodation: Guesthouse – Saty Village
Meals: Breakfast (CP)
Highlights:
Charyn Canyon
Valley of Castles
Kolsai Lake
Scenic Mountain Landscapes
Photography Opportunities

Begin the morning with a visit to the extraordinary Kaindy Lake, one of Central Asia's most unique natural wonders. Hidden deep within the mountains, the lake is famous for its crystal-clear turquoise waters and the haunting spruce trees rising from beneath the surface, creating an almost surreal landscape. A short journey by local 4×4 vehicles brings you to this unforgettable destination.
Leaving Kazakhstan behind, cross the scenic Kegen Border into Kyrgyzstan and continue towards the welcoming town of Karakol, beautifully situated between the majestic Tian Shan Mountains and the shores of Issyk-Kul Lake. The change in landscapes and cultures marks the beginning of your Kyrgyz adventure.
Distance: Approx. 250 km
Driving Time: 6–7 hours (including border crossing)
Highest Altitude: 2,000 m
Road Condition: Asphalt road with short off-road section
Accommodation: 3★ Hotel – Karakol
Meals: Breakfast (CP)
Highlights:
Kaindy Lake
Submerged Forest
4×4 Excursion
Kegen Border Crossing
Karakol

Prepare for one of the most memorable experiences of the tour as you board legendary Soviet UAZ 4×4 vehicles and venture deep into the spectacular Altyn Arashan Valley. The thrilling off-road journey winds through mountain rivers, rocky trails, and dense pine forests before revealing one of Kyrgyzstan's most breathtaking alpine landscapes.
Surrounded by towering snow-capped peaks, enjoy time to explore the valley on foot, breathe the fresh mountain air, and relax in the famous natural hot springs, where warm mineral waters provide the perfect reward after your adventure. In the afternoon, continue along the picturesque southern shore of Issyk-Kul Lake to the peaceful village of Bokonbaevo, renowned for its nomadic traditions and stunning lakeside scenery.
Distance: Approx. 220 km
Driving Time: 6–7 hours
Highest Altitude: 2,600 m
Road Condition: Asphalt roads with mountain off-road section
Accommodation: Guesthouse – Bokonbaevo
Meals: Breakfast (CP)
Highlights:
Altyn Arashan Valley
Soviet UAZ 4×4 Adventure
Natural Hot Springs
Alpine Landscapes
South Shore of Issyk-Kul Lake

After breakfast, begin the day with a visit to the spectacular Skazka (Fairy Tale) Canyon, where centuries of wind and rain have sculpted colorful sandstone cliffs into extraordinary shapes resembling castles, towers, and mythical creatures. The vibrant red, orange, and golden rock formations create one of Kyrgyzstan's most photogenic landscapes.
Continue with an authentic Golden Eagle Hunting Demonstration, offering a fascinating insight into one of the country's oldest nomadic traditions that has been passed down through generations. Witness the remarkable bond between hunter and eagle while learning about this unique cultural heritage.
Leaving the shores of Issyk-Kul behind, travel through dramatic mountain valleys and over scenic high-altitude passes towards the legendary Son-Kul Lake. As the landscape gradually transforms into endless alpine pastures, you'll arrive at Kyrgyzstan's most iconic high-mountain lake, where traditional felt yurts and grazing horses create an unforgettable nomadic setting. This evening, experience genuine Kyrgyz hospitality while spending the night in a traditional yurt camp beneath a sky filled with countless stars.
Distance: Approx. 290 km
Driving Time: 6–7 hours
Highest Altitude: 3,016 m
Road Condition: Good asphalt roads with mountain gravel sections
Accommodation: Traditional Yurt Camp – Son-Kul Lake
Meals: Breakfast (CP)
Highlights:
Skazka (Fairy Tale) Canyon
Golden Eagle Hunting Demonstration
Scenic Mountain Passes
Son-Kul Lake
Traditional Yurt Experience

Wake up surrounded by the breathtaking silence of Son-Kul Lake, situated at an altitude of 3,016 meters above sea level. Far from modern cities, this pristine alpine lake offers one of the most authentic nomadic experiences in Central Asia.
Spend the day exploring vast green jailoos (summer pastures), where local shepherds continue a centuries-old lifestyle, living in traditional yurts and herding horses, sheep, and yaks. Meet local families, learn about Kyrgyz customs and traditions, and enjoy the peaceful rhythm of mountain life.
For those seeking adventure, optional horseback riding across the rolling grasslands provides an unforgettable perspective of the surrounding mountains and endless open landscapes. As evening falls,enjoy one of the most spectacular sunsets in Kyrgyzstan before another peaceful night beneath an incredibly clear, star-filled sky.
Distance: Local sightseeing
Driving Time: Minimal
Highest Altitude: 3,016 m
Road Condition: Local gravel roads
Accommodation: Traditional Yurt Camp – Son-Kul Lake
Meals: Breakfast (CP)
Highlights:
Son-Kul Lake
Nomadic Lifestyle
Traditional Yurt Camp
Alpine Meadows
Horse Riding (Optional)
Spectacular Stargazing

After breakfast, bid farewell to the peaceful alpine landscapes of Son-Kul and begin your journey towards Bishkek, the vibrant capital of Kyrgyzstan. Descending through spectacular mountain passes, enjoy ever-changing scenery as remote highlands give way to fertile valleys and traditional villages.
En route, visit the impressive Burana Tower, one of the country's most important historical landmarks and a surviving monument of the ancient Silk Road city of Balasagun, founded more than a thousand years ago. Explore the archaeological site, ancient stone balbals, and panoramic viewpoints while learning about the fascinating history of this once-thriving trading center.
Upon arrival in Bishkek, discover the city's elegant boulevards, spacious parks, and Soviet-era architecture during a guided sightseeing tour. Visit Ala-Too Square, Victory Square, Oak Park, and the lively Osh Bazaar, where local vendors offer everything from fresh produce and spices to handmade felt souvenirs and traditional Kyrgyz delicacies.
Distance: Approx. 340 km
Driving Time: 5–6 hours
Highest Altitude: 3,400 m (Kalmak-Ashuu Pass)
Road Condition: Mountain gravel road followed by excellent asphalt
Accommodation: 3★ / 4★ Hotel – Bishkek
Meals: Breakfast (CP)
Highlights:
Kalmak-Ashuu Pass
Burana Tower
Ancient Silk Road History
Ala-Too Square
Osh Bazaar
Bishkek City Tour

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at your hotel before spending some free time at your own pace, depending on your flight schedule. Whether relaxing at the hotel or taking a final stroll through Bishkek, this is a perfect opportunity to reflect on the unforgettable experiences of the past nine days.
At the scheduled time, your driver will transfer you to Manas International Airport for your departure flight.
As your journey comes to an end, you leave with lasting memories of two remarkable countries—Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan—where breathtaking mountain landscapes, crystal-clear lakes, ancient Silk Road heritage, and the timeless traditions of the nomadic people combine to create one of Central Asia's most extraordinary travel experiences.
Distance: Approx. 30 km
Driving Time: 40–50 minutes
Highest Altitude: 800 m
Road Condition: Excellent asphalt roads
Accommodation: —
Meals:Breakfast (CP)
Highlights:
Breakfast at the Hotel
Airport Transfer
Departure from Bishkek