Discovery Of Kyrgyzstan Tour
About this tour
A trip to Kyrgyzstan is an exciting adventure full of common discoveries. A journey into the heart of wild nature, between lakes, canyons, peaks with eternal snow and endless steppes, as explorers and knights discovered in their great crossing of Central Asia.
During the trip you will meet people with a different lifestyle. You will spend nights in yurts and houses of local families, taste delicious Kyrgyz cuisine, oriental bazaars, architectural monuments, meetings with shepherds.
You will see with your own eyes breathtaking passes, mountain pastures where herds of cows, sheep, horses and yaks graze, as well as the pearls of the Tien Shan mountains: the lakes, Issyk Kul and Song Kul.
You will see the country where life flows slowly, where people respect and honor the traditions of their ancestors, where women are engaged in needlework: weaving, knitting, creating felt items, preparing national dishes and where men develop crafts, hunt, build houses and graze livestock.
Discover a new culture, new people, new sensations - discover the incredible Kyrgyzstan with us. A total change of scenery and unexpected wonders
Day-by-day itinerary
Day 1: Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan
Flight to Bishkek, night on the plane
Day 2: Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan
I arrive, usually in the morning, in Bishkek. Transfer to hotel (in case of different flight from the group, transfer with driver but without guide). The rest of the program is to be modulated based on the arrival time of the flight. Meeting point for everyone at 11am in the hotel lobby. Let's first take a walk through the Osh market, the main bazaar and meeting point of the country's traders, a quite unique place, where you can see the bright rows of dried fruits, nuts, sweets and spices, as well as the meat department, that of bakeries or artisan shops. After visiting the Osh market, we head towards the city center. Stroll along the large shaded avenues of the city, discovering its monuments, museums, works, the presidential palace, the central ''Ala Too'' square, Panfilov Park and the monument to Lenin, Victory Park... Lunch and dinner in a traditional restaurant.
Day 3: Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan to Chong-Kemin National Park, Kyrgyzstan
Breakfast. This morning we will discover the Ala Archa national park, south of the city. The canyon, classified as a natural park, features an impressive gorge and great viewpoints Warm-up walk to Ala Archa waterfall (2800 m) Lunch box Then transfer to Chong Kemin Valley. After the ride we will head towards Chong Kemin Valley via the mountain road Dinner and overnight stay in guest house. Ala Archa: Distance: 8 km on foot/approximately 4 hours Altitude difference on foot: + 450 m. Negative height difference on foot: -450 m Night and dinner in guesthouse.
Day 4: Chong-Kemin National Park, Kyrgyzstan to Jyrgalan, Kyrgyzstan
After breakfast, transfer to the Grigor'evka gorge where we will begin our short walk towards the Kyrchyn pastures. (1h) The landscapes today are completely different, yesterday we were in the canyons of Colorado, today they remind us of the Alps. After the tour easy transfer to the agro-farm "Kyzyl Tash" in the village of Zharkynbaevo. This is a unique complex dedicated to the life of nomads, where you can learn a lot about the life of the Tchaban (herders). In a kind of museum, a local guide will talk about animal husbandry, sheep breeds bred in Soviet times, and also tell about the times when Kyrgyzstan was the largest supplier of high-quality wool and meat in the entire USSR . Lunch on a farm overlooking Issyk Kul Lake. We will enjoy grilled fish with vegetables. Transfer to Jyrgalan Valley. Arrival at Jyrgalan village, accommodation in guest house. Dinner and rest. Walk between Grigoryevka and Semenovka: Distance: 5km on foot/approximately 1h30 Altitude difference on foot: + 280 m. Negative height difference on foot: -280 m Road transportation time: approx. 5 hours/380 km GOOD TO KNOW : With our guests comfort is simple. Single rooms are not always available, so we will share rooms and bathrooms .
Day 5: Jyrgalan, Kyrgyzstan to Karakol, Kyrgyzstan
Transfer after breakfast to Karakol heading west via the northern shore of Lake Issyk-Kul. During the route swimming in the Aksu hot springs. Upon arrival in Karakol, visit the Prjevalski Museum, the first Russian explorer In the afternoon short city tour to the town of Karakol, where we will visit the famous Doungane Mosque and the Orthodox Church of the Holy Trinity. Both buildings have cultural and material value for Kyrgyzstan and its history. The program includes a visit to the regional historical museum and its gallery by Ella Maillart - great traveler who arrived in Central Asia in the 1930s Dinner with a Dungan family. Night in hotel. Road transportation time: approx. 1h30/70km
Day 6: Karakol, Kyrgyzstan to Ak Say, Kyrgyzstan
Road towards the Ak Say canyon and its "valley of the forgotten rivers". Along the way, we will stop to admire the sublime ocher cliff “Cœur Brisé”. Located at the entrance to the Jety Oguz valley, this natural jewel reveals all its romance. This lush valley is particularly popular with hikers for its magnificent views of mountains, waterfalls and caves. We will then take the hiking trails towards the picturesque Valley of Flowers.” Crossing pastures covered in pine forests, we will have the sensation of being in the heart of the Swiss countryside. The men on horseback driving the cattle and the yurts scattered here and there remind us that we are truly in one of the green valleys of Central Asia. Entering the valley of flowers, we continue on a narrow and dusty path that leads, through the alpine woods, to a small cool and shady paradise under the Devechi Kosy waterfall. Packed lunch in the heart of this environment. We will continue our route through the southern shore of Issyk Kul Lake and arrive at the lake shore, where we will spend the night. Walk in the Ak-Sai canyons: Distance: 10km on foot/approximately 2h30 Elevation difference on foot: + 200 m. Negative height difference on foot: -200 m Road transportation time: approx. 3 hours/160 km GOOD TO KNOW : Individual yurts are not always available, so we will share yurts and bathrooms .
Day 7: Ak Say, Kyrgyzstan
Breakfast at the camp. This morning we will enjoy a relaxing moment on the shores of Lake Issyk Koul. In some periods of the year the waters of the lake can reach 24 degrees, perfect for cooling off. We will then board our vehicles to reach the starting point of our excursion. We will follow the hiking trails of this splendid canyon to reach the highest point and admire the splendid 360° panorama. This amazing canyon is often called the "valley of forgotten rivers" here, because at the entrance we can observe the traces of dry rivers that flowed in this place many years ago. Packed lunch. Descending through winding paths, we will finally find the southern shore of the beautiful Issyk Kul Lake. Eventually we will find our yurt camp. At the end of the afternoon our guests will reveal to you all the secrets of eagle hunting. Dinner and overnight stay in a yurt. Walk to the Shatyly panorama: Distance: 10km on foot/approximately 2h30 Elevation difference on foot: + 200 m. Negative height difference on foot: -200 m GOOD TO KNOW : Individual yurts are not always available, so we will share yurts and toilets
Day 8: Ak Say, Kyrgyzstan to Song Kol Lake, Kyrgyzstan
Towards Lake Son Koul – paradise for lovers of the great outdoors Breakfast. Departure by road to reach the heart of Kyrgyzstan, Lake Son Koul. Along the way we will stop in one of the workshops in the village of Kyzyl Tuu to discover the techniques of building a yurt . The route is sometimes difficult, but after a few passages we will reach a true oasis of peace perched at more than 3000 m above sea level in the heart of the Tian Shan massif. Upon arrival we will settle into our lakeside yurt camp. Nomads live there for a few months in spring and summer with their herds of yaks and horses. A great opportunity to meet local shepherds and their families in the heart of breathtaking landscapes. The always friendly Kyrgyz families will invite us to taste the regional products, Airan (yoghurt) and Kumis (fermented national drink made from mare's milk). It is in this bucolic environment that we will have dinner and spend the night in the summer mountain pastures under the warm yurts . We will not see time pass: privileged moments spent with the inhabitants to learn more about their culture, their traditions, share their daily life, discover the work of the nomads, walk on the shores of the lake or on the ridges above it. .. Our yurt camp is located in the northern part of the lake (its most beautiful coast). Road transportation time: approx. 4-5h00 / 160km Attention! at night at 3,000 m GOOD TO KNOW : Individual yurts are not always available, so we will share yurts and toilets
Day 9: Song Kol Lake, Kyrgyzstan
Immersions in the nomadic lifestyle. Easy day walk (and encounters) at Tulpar Tash Pastures After breakfast we head west towards the lake and walk along the lake shore. Your driver guide will drive his car but you will be accompanied by the local English speaking guide. Small climbs and descents (max 50 m) await you before arriving at the Tulpar Tash Yurts camp. The lake shore is magnificent with herds of horses, yaks, cows, sheep and goats. Chance to visit shepherds and taste fermented mare's milk, cheese balls and simply cow's milk tea... Lunch in an Uzbek yurt camp (included in the price) After breakfast – free time. Dinner and overnight at Tulpar Tash yurt camp. Distance: 13 km on foot / 4-5 hours of walking Elevation difference on foot: + 150 m. Negative height difference on foot: - 150 m GOOD TO KNOW : Individual yurts are not always available, so we will share yurts and toilets
Day 10: Song Kol Lake, Kyrgyzstan to Kyzyl-Oi, Kyrgyzstan
Kizil Oï – village surrounded by imposing ocher mountains Breakfast at the camp. Departure by road towards the village of Kyzyl Oy, our last stop on our journey before Bishkek. After crossing the Karakeche pass at more than 3,600 m, we will immerse ourselves in the Jumgal valley and regretfully leave Son Koul lake behind us. We will stop at Chaek village, this small town in the middle of nowhere, to do some shopping. The road will then lead us towards a path that flows into a canyon where a splendid river with turquoise waters flows with magnificent green and ocher cliffs as a backdrop. The time has come to immortalize this extraordinary nature, photography enthusiasts will be won over. Upon our arrival we will be won over by the hospitality of the inhabitants of the village of Kyzyl Oi. They will open the doors for us for the night. For those who want to stretch their legs, the town is an excellent starting point for a short excursion upstream from the town to enjoy a beautiful view of the valley, the town, the river... Dinner and overnight stay in the home of local people. Road transportation time: approx. 5:00 / approx. 160 km GOOD TO KNOW : With our guests comfort is simple. Single rooms are not always available, so we will share rooms and bathrooms .
Day 11: Kyzyl-Oi, Kyrgyzstan to Bishkek City, Kyrgyzstan
Breakfast at the locals' home. We will board our vehicle to cover the last kilometers to Bishkek. The route runs alongside the Kekmeren River, which rises to the Tui Pass at over 3,500 m above sea level. On our journey we pass through two isolated villages in the upper part of the valley. Then we will descend the wide Chuy valley. We will arrive in Bishkek mid- day. For those who wish, head to the Osh market to make the latest purchases or for a moment of relaxation. Dinner at a local restaurant to celebrate your last evening in Kyrgyzstan. Road transportation time: approx. 5:00 / approx. 200km
Day 12: Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan
According to our flight schedule, transfer to Bishkek airport. Return flight Road transportation time: approx. 45 minutes / 30 km End of the journey.
What's included
The price includes: • Transfers to and from the arrival airport • Accompaniment by a local English-speaking guide • Guide services • Transportation (for you and your luggage) throughout the trip + private transfers to the start of the itinerary or first accommodation • Accommodation in double or twin room (separate beds) except guesthouse, homestay, yurt • Breakfasts, lunches and dinners (full board) • Visits, entrance fees to sites or parks and activities indicated in the program (and not optional or carried out in free time) • Local agency assistance during your trip 24/7 • Eagle hunting in the Ak-Say canyons • Demonstration of yurt building techniques at Kizil Tuu
The price does not include: • International flights • Airport taxes and fuel surcharges, to date • Optional cancellation and/or repatriation insurance • Single room supplement (not possible in guesthouses, homestays, yurts) • Visits and activities not included or carried out during free time • Meals listed as free in the program • Alcoholic beverages • Paid video and photo shooting on site • Lost, stolen and damaged baggage • Tips for guides, companions and drivers • Visa fees (if necessary) • Cancellation charges
What to know
DATES AND PRICES 2024 P/PERS IN EUROS: Rates per person in room: Double/Double – 1370 euros Rates per person in room: SGL – 1550 euros Accommodation: under the yurt, homestays, guesthouses and hotels. - Bishkek (3 nights): 4* hotel in Damascus . - Chong Kemin Valley: (1 night) in guest house - Jyrgalan Valley: (1 night) in guest house - Karakol: (1 night) in hotel - Yurt camp in Ak Say canyon (2 nights). - Song Koul Lake: (2 nights) under the yurt. - Kizil Oï (1 night): Homestay. Total: 11 nights * It is not possible to provide yurts and single rooms/guesthouses . The accommodation under the yurt is for 3-4 people on Song Kul Lake and Ak-Sai Canyons. * An additional night at the Bishkek-SGL hotel: 65 euros per room; Double/TWN: 80 euros per room. *Extra airport transfer – Bishkek or Bishkek - airport = 30 euros per vehicle *The program is guaranteed for groups of 4 or more *Maximum 8 people in a group. Departure dates 2024: 08-18.06-2024 (arrival in Bishkek on the night between 7.06 and 8.06) 31.08-10.09-2024 (arrival in Bishkek on the night between 30.08 and 31.08) CANCELLATION POLICY: 30 days or more 0% of the trip cost 30 – 15 days 50% of the cost of the trip 15-8 days 75% of the travel cost 1 – 7 days 100% of the travel cost Good to know: This trip contributes to sustainable tourism! This trip is not suitable for children under 7 years of age Hotels may change depending on availability. If the hotel changes, the category will be similar. Some days of the trip may be modified due to weather or safety conditions The guide is English speaking, if the trip is privatised, we can offer you separate dates, with the group and the French/German/Italian/Spanish guide, etc. Transfer time is approximate (average speed) and depends on weather and traffic. A shower and toilet can be outside for nights in the yurt or at home. Currency Exchange. If you intend to exchange dollars/euros for som (local currency), we recommend that you take 20, 50, 100 euro/USD banknotes without defects. For commission-free exchange, only clean and new banknotes are accepted. Travel: Generally limited to less than 5 hours of travel in a comfortable minibus. We draw your attention to the fact that the use of a seat belt is mandatory both at the front and at the rear in all vehicles you use during the journey, when they are equipped with one, regardless of the regulations in force in the country visited! This trip combines different types of accommodation in hotels, guesthouses, homestays, yurts Central Asian cuisine is generally healthy, quite varied and you will often have the opportunity to enjoy hearty traditional dishes. Keep in mind that mutton forms an important part of the local gastronomy and is often prepared in the form of small grilled skewers, kebabs or shashlik and dumplings. We find some flavors from the Middle East and even the Mediterranean and the influences are Chinese, Russian, Persian, Oriental, etc. Water: You have to be careful with water. Avoid drinking tap water in the city or water outdoors. Drink boiled water or water treated with Micropur or Hidroclonazone or drinks in closed bottles Altitude : check that you have no contraindications to staying at altitude. Do not leave without consulting a doctor, especially if your health condition requires regular treatment. (there is a night at 3000m) Sufficient cameras and films (you can find some on site but check the expiry date before buying them, there are only paper films and no slides anyway) + spare batteries. You will not need a light sleeping bag or sheet for accommodation in a yurt or with a local Equipment Small personal equipment: Sunglasses Thermal bottle (1 L min.) Backpack (25-35l) Flashlight and/or headlamp (waterproof if applicable) High protection sun cream Folding knife (to be placed in checked baggage) Toiletries (preferably biodegradable products) Quick drying towel Noise canceling hearing protection Hat or cap that covers the neck Personal pharmacy In addition to the usual medications, it is advisable to bring with you: antidiarrheal, analgesic, possibly vitamins, sunscreen, plaster, disinfectant, broad-spectrum antibiotic, cure for colds (nose, throat, bronchi, ears), anti-inflammatory product - mosquitoes in summer. CLOTHES : Warm clothing (warmer trousers, sweaters, fleece, windbreaker, gloves, hat). Rain coat Swimming suit Hiking shoes with high uppers, tennis shoes, sandals. Toiletries, towel and washcloth When visiting temples and villages, correct clothing that respects local customs is required: trousers and short-sleeved or loose-fitting t-shirts. No shorts, tank tops or dresses that are too tight or revealing. For women: Bermuda shorts must be replaced with cropped trousers. This tour can be customized. Please get in touch with me.
Route & locations
Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan