8 Days Across Kyrgyz Lakes & Valleys
Overview:
Discover the natural beauty and rich cultural heritage of Kyrgyzstan on this 7-day adventure. From the high alpine lakes and nomadic traditions to the ancient Silk Road monuments and scenic mountain valleys, this journey offers an unforgettable blend of history, nature, and authentic local experiences.
Guesthouse x 6 nights
Highlights:
Too-Ashuu Pass & Suusamyr Valley: Scenic mountain drive and Kokomeren Riverwalk.
Son-Kul Lake: Stay in traditional yurts and optional horseback riding.
Issyk-Kul Lake: Relax by the lake and swim on the south shore.
Eagle Hunting Demo & Waterfalls: Witness nomadic hunting traditions and hike to Barskoon waterfalls.
Jeti-Oguz & Karakol: Explore red rock canyons, ancient churches, and mosques.
Jyrgalan Valley & Gorges: Hike through Semenov and Grigoriev Gorges' pristine landscapes.
Burana Tower: Visit a 10th-century Silk Road monument before returning to Bishkek.
Itinerary:
Day 1: Bishkek – Kyzyl-Oi Village
Upon arrival in Bishkek, our driver will meet and transfer you from the airport. The tour begins at 8 AM with a drive over the scenic Too-Ashuu Pass into Suusamyr Valley, stopping by the Kokomeren River and visiting the Kojomkul Museum. Arrive in Kyzyl-Oi, check into a local guesthouse, and enjoy a short evening walk to soak in the surrounding nature.
Accommodation | Guesthouse
Meal | Breakfast, Lunch or Picnic, Dinner
Day 2: Kyzyl-Oi – Son-Kul Lake
Depart Kyzyl-Oi for Son-Kul Lake, crossing the scenic Kara-Keche Pass and a regional coal mine. Arrive at vast nomadic pastures, where locals preserve their yurt-living traditions. Optional horseback riding offers panoramic lake views.
Accommodation | Yurts
Meal | Breakfast, Lunch or Picnic, Dinner
Day 3: Son-Kul – Issyk-Kul Lake - Bokonbaevo
Drive to Issyk-Kul’s south shore, crossing a scenic mountain pass. Stop in Kochkor for lunch and local souvenirs, then pass the Orto-Tokoi reservoir. Arrive in Bokonbaevo by late afternoon, relax at a guesthouse, or enjoy a swim in the lake.
Accommodation | Guesthouse
Meal | Breakfast, Lunch or Picnic, Dinner
Day 4: Bokonbaevo – Barskoon – Jeti-Oguz – Karakol
Visit an eagle hunter for a traditional demonstration, then hike to stunning waterfalls in Barskoon Valley, with views of Kumtor gold mine. Explore Jeti-Oguz’s red rock formations before reaching Karakol.
Accommodation | Guesthouse
Meal | Breakfast, Lunch or Picnic, Dinner
Day 5: Karakol – Jyrgalan Valley
Explore Karakol’s highlights, including the wooden Holy Trinity Church and the nail-free Dungan Mosque. Then, head to Jyrgalan Valley for a scenic walk through lush pastures and mountain views.
Accommodation | Guesthouse
Meal | Breakfast, Lunch or Picnic, Dinner
Day 6: Jyrgalan – Semenov & Grigoriev Gorges – Cholpon-Ata
Drive to Semenov Gorge, known for its untouched nature and Tien-Shan firs. Walk to Grigoriev Gorge, then visit Cholpon-Ata’s Open-Air Petroglyph Museum, featuring carvings from 2000 BC.
Accommodation | Guesthouse
Meal | Breakfast, Lunch or Picnic, Dinner
Day 7: Cholpon-Ata – Burana Tower – Bishkek
On the way to Bishkek, visit Burana Tower, a 10th-century Silk Road monument with a museum of ancient artifacts. Stay overnight in Bishkek, then transfer to the airport next day.
Accommodation | Guesthouse
Meal | Breakfast, Lunch or Picnic, Dinner
Day 8: Bishkek – Departure
Transfer to the airport.
Meal | Breakfast
✓ What's included
Accommodation for 7 nights
All meals (breakfast, lunch or picnic, dinner)
English-speaking guide for 7 days
All transportation according to the program
All entry fees where applicable
Water supply 1L per person per day
Eagle hunting demonstration
✕ Not included
International flights
Travel Insurance is mandatory to participate in this tour
Beverages
Except water and tea during meals
Personal expenses and purchases
Optional activities (horse riding etc.)
ⓘ Need-to-know
ⓘ Important Note for Day 1
The tour starts at 8:00 AM with a drive from Bishkek – Kyzyl-Oi Village. Early check-in accommodation in Bishkek is not included. If you wish to rest for a few hours before the tour begins, please email us in advance—early check-in can be arranged at an additional cost.
ⓘ Accommodation in the countryside is simple and basic, staying in guesthouses or yurt camps hosted by local families. It's a great way to experience authentic Kyrgyz hospitality and rural life.
ⓘ Travel Essentials
Insurance – Mandatory for all participants.
Dietary Requests – Vegetarian meals are available with prior notice.
Clothing & Gear – Bring warm clothes for cold nights, sunscreen & sunglasses for sun protection, and hiking shoes for trekking and walks.