7 Day Tour "The Way Of Nomad"
About this tour
“The Way of Nomad” is a unique opportunity to explore Kyrgyzstan and experience ancient nomadic culture. During this extraordinary journey, you will follow the path of the nomads — from ancient campsites to modern yurt camps. You will not only witness, but actively take part in sacred ceremonies and centuries-old rituals that reflect the core of the Kyrgyz nomad lifestyle.
Day-by-day itinerary
Day 1: город Бишкек, Кыргызстан to Нарын, Кыргызстан
Meeting in Bishkek and start our journey to the Naryn region – one of the most high-altitude and authentic areas of the land of nomads. In just 1.5 hours, we will reach our first landmark of the Great Silk Road — the UNESCO-listed Burana Tower. Here you will visit a small museum with exhibits found at excavations and its fascinating collection of ancient stone balbals. Crossing the Boom Gorge, we arrive at a yurt camp in Naryn. Here, we will learn why the Kyrgyz revered water as sacred and how nomadic traditions were born high in the mountains. After dinner, we will explore the philosophy of Kyrgyz nomad lifestyle, the traditions of birth and coming of age, family values, and the rituals of seeing a nomad off on his final journey. Overnight at a traditional Kyrgyz yurt camp.
Day 2: Нарын, Кыргызстан to Ozero Sonkel', Кыргызстан
After breakfast, we gather our strength for a true high-mountain summer nomadic experience. Upon arrival at the traditional yurt camp on Song-Kol lake, a delicious lunch awaits us. Later, we take part in building a real nomadic dwelling — a yurt. Today, we will acquire our first nomadic skills. Dinner and overnight at a traditional Kyrgyz yurt camp..
Day 3: Ozero Sonkel', Кыргызстан to Таш-Рабат, Кыргызстан
After breakfast at the yurt camp, we will master the art of horseback riding. After a horseback ride to the lake, we will embark on an important mission — to deliver a valuable cargo, a symbol of trust and a part of a ritual for prosperity. We continue toward Tash-Rabat, a 15th-century caravanserai nestled high in the mountains. After an engaging tour and a meal, we continue to a traditional yurt camp, where dinner and an introduction to the traditions of the nomadic people await us. Overnight at a traditional Kyrgyz yurt camp.
Day 4: Таш-Рабат, Кыргызстан to Иссык-Куль, Кыргызстан
After breakfast, we take a walk to explore Tash-Rabat caravanserai, the ancient refuge of travelers and merchants. Later, we head towards the south shore of Lake Issyk Kul. Here, we will take part in Salburun, a traditional hunting practice that includes golden eagle hunting, archery, and the Kyrgyz Taigan hunting dog. Upon arrival at the yurt camp/guesthouse, we will take a walk along the lakeshore, followed by dinner and overnight stay at the yurt camp/guesthouse.
Day 5: Иссык-Куль, Кыргызстан to Karkyra Village, Каркара, Кыргызстан
After breakfast, our journey leads us to the Karkyra valley, home of the Cranes Migration. On the way, we visit masters of felt carpet-making, explore Karakol’s diverse culture with a visit to the Dungan Mosque, built without a single nail, and the Holy Trinity Cathedral, where a miraculous Greek icon is preserved, and stop by the Old Mill Museum, which houses artifacts dating back to the 5th century BCE. In the evening, we arrive in the Karkyra valley, where a cozy yurt camp and a delicious dinner await us.
Day 6: Karkyra Village, Каркара, Кыргызстан
After breakfast, we will set off on a hike to the Char-Kuduk Gorge. Upon our return, lunch will be served. Later, we participate in a boorsok (Kyrgyz bread) cooking masterclass and there will be an opportunity to try on traditional wedding outfits. Dinner and overnight at a traditional Kyrgyz yurt camp.
Day 7: Karkyra Village, Каркара, Кыргызстан to город Бишкек, Кыргызстан
After breakfast our journey is coming to an end. On the northern shore of Lake Issyk-Kul, in the village of Ornok, the guardians of the Museum of Nomadic Civilizations will welcome us and present the final symbol of the nomad. Over a farewell lunch, we will take photos to remember our expedition. Return to Bishkek.
What's included
Tour price includes transportation, driver’s expenses, Kel‑Suu border zone permits, horseback riding with guides at Song‑Kul and Kel‑Suu, accommodation in yurts/guesthouses as specified, and meals at yurt camps.
Not included: international flights, visa fees, travel insurance, personal expenses (souvenirs, drinks, optional excursions), and meals not specified in the program.
Languages spoken
What to know
Expect high-altitude conditions, authentic yurt accommodations, horseback riding activities, variable mountain weather, limited internet access, and traditional Kyrgyz meals. Moderate physical fitness is recommended.
Route & locations
город Бишкек, Кыргызстан to Нарын, Кыргызстан