The regal Issyk Kul. An impressive yet brief 3-day itinerary worth of the more extensive 5-day excursion encircling the world’s second-largest alpine lake. An ideal option for travelers seeking to experience the country’s highlights but have limited time or prefer shorter journeys. Experience the essence of Kyrgyzstan in the most efficient time frame!
Bishkek - Burana Tower - Konorchek canyon - Cholpon Ata town
Bishkek - In the morning you’ll be picked up from your hotel and we’ll head straight towards the Issyk Kul region (230km).
Burana Tower - 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.
Konorchek Canyons - On the way we’re visiting the picturesque Konorchek canyon for a light but awesome hike. Moving on. Lunch on the way.
Cholpon Ata - 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)
Cholpon Ata - Grigoriev Gorge - Semyonov gorge - Karakol town - Jeti Oguz valley
Cholpon Ata - In the morning we’re starting to move towards the south coast of the lake.
Grigoryevka - 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.
Karakol - 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).
Jeti-Oguz Canyon (Seven Bulls Rocks) - 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).
Jeti Oguz - Skazka canyon - Ak Sai village - Bishkek
Jeti-Oguz Canyon (Seven Bulls Rocks) - 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.
Bokonbayevo - 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).
Bishkek - 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!
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Accommodation on the 3rd night
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
