A Beautiful 3 Day Journey Around Issyk Kul Lake
About this tour
His majesty Issyk Kul. A short but stunning 3 day version of the longer 5 day tour around the second largest alpine lake of the world. A perfect choice for those who want to see the best of the country but don’t have much time or are not accustomed to long trips. Take the best of Kyrgyzstan in the shortest period of time!
Day-by-day itinerary
Day 1: Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan to Cholpon Ata, Kyrgyzstan
Bishkek - Burana Tower - Konorchek canyon - Cholpon Ata town On the way, stop at the famous 11th century Burana Tower. This UNESCO World Heritage site will be of interest to history fiends. We’ll spend about 30 minutes here: climb on top of the tower, visit the archaeology museum and walk around to have a look at balbals (ancient stones with depictions). Resuming our way to Issyk Kul. On the way we're visiting the picturesque Konorchek canyon for a light but awesome hike. Moving on. Lunch on the way. Upon arrival in Cholpon Ata (central town of the lake’s north coast) we're checking-in to a hotel. Now we’re driving to the local dock to have a beautiful ship ride out on the lake. After roaming 4km away the ship will stop at the depth of 120 meters. In the hot season (May-September) you may dive into the water and enjoy a surreal swim (life jackets provided). In the other seasons you will have no less beautiful time on the ship enjoying the lake’s splendor and mountains all around. Free time. Dinner at a restaurant. Overnight (Olimp hotel or similar)
Day 2: Cholpon Ata, Kyrgyzstan to Jeti Oguz, Kyrgyzstan
Cholpon Ata - Grigoriev Gorge - Semyonov gorge - Karakol town - Jeti Oguz valley In the morning we’re starting to move towards the south coast of the lake. On the way we’re visiting the 2 stunning Grigoriev and Semyonov gorges to explore their wonderful landscapes and some hidden alpine lakes. Lunch after hiking. Moving on. Arrival in Karakol town that is located on the line between the north and south coasts. Short city tour: Dungan mosque (1910), Russian Orthodox church (1895). Resuming our way along the south coast towards Jeti Oguz valley. Driving deeper into the valley of flowers we’ll arrive at “Jailoo” (green summer pasture) where yurt camps are located. Now it’s time for a magnificent horseback voyage through forests and up the mountains to the lovely Maiden Braids waterfall. Free time for walking on the meadows. Dinner. Bonfire time outside and stargazing. Overnight in yurts (traditional Kyrgyz dwelling).
Day 3: Jeti Oguz, Kyrgyzstan to Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan
Jeti Oguz - Skazka canyon - Ak Sai village - Bishkek Today is the last day of our lovely journey and it offers you several more exciting activities to experience. In the morning after breakfast we’ll spend some time for a walk in Jeti Oguz. Resuming our way along the south coast. Visiting the fascinating Skazka (Fairy Tale) canyon for a charming hike. Moving on. Visiting Ak Sai village where we are going to witness a spectacular Eagle Hunting process (an eagle hunting for its prey). The Berkutchi (eagle’s owner) will tell you more precisely about this traditional way of hunting and after that you’ll participate in the archery part yourself. Picnic on the wild beach of Issyk Kul. Swimming and sunbathing. Short hike to the Canyon of Forgotten Rivers. Now it's time to head back to Bishkek (230km). Upon arrival in the capital city you'll be dropped off at your hotel (not included). This is the end of our intense but awesome tour, thank you very much!
What's included
Air-conditioned vehicle with a driver English-speaking guide Accommodation for 2 nights – Hotel or guest house, yurt (private) Meals: full board (B, L, D) All activities due to the itinerary Admissions (museums, parks etc.)
Flight tickets Accommodation on the 3th night Health insurance Other personal expenses
What to know
This tour can be customized. Please get in touch with me.
Route & locations
Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan to Cholpon Ata, Kyrgyzstan