Hidden Valley Adventure: 3-day Horse Trek In Southern Issyk-kul
About this tour
Discover one of the least-visited regions of Issyk-Kul on this 3-day horse-riding adventure through the mountains and valleys of Toguz-Bulak and Temir-Kanat. Ride along ancient shepherd trails, meet a traditional eagle hunter, spend nights in a guesthouse and local family homestay, and experience authentic Kyrgyz nomadic culture. From panoramic views of Lake Issyk-Kul and alpine valleys to encounters with herders in remote summer pastures, this journey offers a genuine connection with the landscapes and people of rural Kyrgyzstan.
Highlights
• Ride through the hidden alpine valleys of Toguz-Bulak and Kok-Sai
• Enjoy panoramic views of Lake Issyk-Kul from mountain trails
• Explore Ustunku Dolina, an unspoiled valley rarely visited by tourists
• Visit remote summer pastures and meet local herders
• Taste traditional kymyz (fermented mare's milk)
• Ride to nearly 3,000 meters with views of the At-Jailoo glaciers
• Opportunities for galloping across wide-open mountain valleys
• Small groups and personalized guiding
Day-by-day itinerary
Day 1: Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan to Toguzbulak, Kyrgyzstan
Drive from Bokonbaevo to the Kok-Temir, the junction leading to Ustunku Dolina (Upper Valley), where a horseman and horses will be waiting to take you into the Toguz-Bulak and Kok-Sai mountains. On the meet an eagle hunter and witness the short demonstration and story of eagle hunting. Ustunku Dolina (sometimes referred as Kongur-Olon valley) is an 80–100 km long alpine valley sitting at 2,200 m elevation, home to 12 villages tucked behind a small mountain ridge along the southern shore of Lake Issyk-Kul. Largely unknown to tourism, it remains an unspoiled and authentic destination. Enjoy 3–4 hours of horse riding through the valley and up into the steeper mountain slopes, where sweeping views of the valley and lake await. A picnic lunch is served in the mountains. In the evening, descend to Toguz-Bulak village and spend the night at the Hidden Valley Guesthouse.
Day 2: Toguzbulak, Kyrgyzstan to Temir-Kanat, Kyrgyzstan
Ride from Toguz-Bulak to Temir-Kanat village along a quiet country road, taking in the beauty of the valley over 16 km. After lunch, continue riding east through the valley, with open stretches ideal for galloping. The afternoon includes a walk through the village and an introduction to local rural life. Overnight with a local family (homestay).
Day 3: Temir-Kanat, Kyrgyzstan
A full day trip into the Temir-Kanat mountains with views of a glacier. Ride up to around 3,000 m, from where you'll be rewarded with a panoramic view of Lake Issyk-Kul and view of the At-Jailoo glaciers. Along the way, meet herdsmen who spend their summers in the mountains with their families and livestock, and sample kymyz, traditional fermented mare's milk. Approximately 4–6 hours of riding. Return to the village in the evening. Overnight with a local family in Temir-Kanat.
Day 4: Temir-Kanat, Kyrgyzstan to Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan
In the morning transfer to Bishkek. On the way, visit the historic Burana Tower, a 10th–11th-century minaret and one of the most important remnants of the ancient Silk Road in Kyrgyzstan. Explore the archaeological site, see the stone balbals (ancient grave markers), and learn about the medieval city of Balasagun that once flourished here.
What's included
Languages spoken
Route & locations
Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan to Toguzbulak, Kyrgyzstan