Issyk Kul Tours: 10 Day Journey Exploring Alpine Lakes in Kyrgyzstan

Embark on a 10-day journey exploring the stunning alpine lakes of Kyrgyzstan. Hike, visit ancient cities, stay in traditional yurts, and immerse yourself in Kyrgyz culture. Witness a master class on eagle hunting and experience the breathtaking natural wonders of the region.

Duration: 10 days
Cancellation: 24 hours
Highlights

Manas Airport – Ala-Archa – Bishkek, up to 120 km.

Ala-Archa National Park - Upon arrival at Manas Airport, transfer to Bishkek. After a few hours of rest at the hotel and lunch, drive to Ala-Archa National Park. This park, featuring the Ala-Archa River gorge and surrounding mountains, is a favorite spot for weekend picnickers, hikers, horse trekkers, skiers, and mountain climbers seeking challenging ice, rock, and mixed routes. Walk to Ak-Sai Waterfall and return to Bishkek. Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant.

Bishkek – Burana – Chon-Kemin, up to 170 km.

Burana Tower - Drive through the villages near the Kyrgyz Range mountains. Experience the fresh mountain air during the 1.5-hour drive to the Burana Tower. The tower, along with grave markers, earthworks, and remnants of a castle and three mausoleums, is all that remains of the ancient city of Balasagun, established by the Karakhanids at the end of the 11th to 13th centuries.

Konorchek Canyons - If the weather permits, enjoy a radial trek to Konorchek Canyons. Walk from the main road in Boom Gorge through a narrow dry gorge and a maze of rocks scattered over a dry riverbed. The canyons feature red sandstone columns reminiscent of the Grand Canyon in Colorado, USA.

Chon-Kemin National Park - Arrive at Chon-Kemin National Park for dinner and accommodation in a guest house.

Chon–Kemin – Semenov Gorge – Karakol, up to 200 km.

Issyk-Kul Lake - Travel to Semenov Gorge, located on the north shore of Issyk-Kul Lake.

Karakol - Upon arrival, enjoy a short city tour in Karakol. Dinner and accommodation at a hotel.

Karakol – Altyn-Arashan – Karakol, 30 km.

Altyn Arashan - Drive to the starting point for a hike to the hot springs of Altyn-Arashan. After a relaxing hot bath with radon water and lunch, return to Karakol by car. Dinner and accommodation at a hotel.

Karakol-Inylchek-Karakol, up to 250 km.

Karakol – Ala-Kul Lake – Karakol, up to 15 km.

Ala Kul Lake - Transfer to Karakol Gorge for a radial trek to Ala-Kul Lake. The ascent and descent take about 8-10 hours, with the lake situated at an altitude of 3533m. The round trip distance is 11 km with an elevation change of approximately 1000 meters. Dinner and accommodation at a hotel.

Karakol – Jeti-Oguz Gorge – Bokonbaevo, 200 km

Jeti-Oguz Canyon (Seven Bulls Rocks) - Visit the popular Jeti-Oguz Gorge, known for the Seven Bulls and Broken Heart rocks. Enjoy a walk for a panoramic view of the mountains.

Bokonbaevo – Son-Kul Lake, 250 km

Son Kul Lake - Continue driving to Lake Son-Kul, where the spirit of nomads can be felt. In summer, locals leave their villages to graze cattle in the lush meadows of Son-Kul Lake. Experience the nomadic lifestyle, where men ride horses and graze cattle, and women take care of household chores and produce dairy products. Enjoy natural, local food such as meat, milk, butter, and airan (local yogurt). Horses graze and breed freely in the Alpine-like meadows. Accommodation and dinner at a yurt camp on Son-Kul.

Son-Kul Lake – Kyzyl-Oi Village, up to 150 km

Kyzyl-Oi – Too-Ashu Pass – Bishkek, 200 km

Too-Ashu Pass - Travel to the natural treasure of Inner Tien-Shan, Suusamyr Valley, one of the best grasslands in Kyrgyzstan. The pass attracts alpinists, ski enthusiasts, and those who love fresh mountain air. The road passes through the majestic Too-Ashu Pass at an altitude of 3400m, connecting the north and south capitals. Enjoy stunning landscapes and views of Suusamyr Valley. Arrive in Bishkek and celebrate with a festive dinner at the ethno-restaurant Supara. Accommodation at a hotel.

What's Included
  • Lunch included
  • Dinner included
  • Breakfast included
What's Not Included
  • Alcohol
  • Insurance
  • Visa and other visa related fees
Additional Information

Kyrgyzstan is a captivating nation in Central Asia that captivates with its impressive mountain ranges, abundant nomadic history, and hospitable inhabitants. Whether your passion is trekking, discovering ancient metropolises, or residing in conventional yurts, we can tailor a tour to match your propensities and desires.
During the trip, you’ll be able to roam around some of the most reputable sights in the vicinity, including the mesmerizing high-altitude lakes of Issyk-Kul, Son-Kul, and Ala-Kul, along with the awe-inspiring natural attractions of Jeti-Oguz, Semenov Gorges, and the Inylchek Glacier. You’ll also be able to truly experience Kyrgyz life by touring local hamlets and staying with a host family. Moreover, you’ll have the extraordinary opportunity to attend a master class in the traditional practice of eagle hunting.
We’ll guarantee your trip is secure, relaxing, and authentically representative of Kyrgyzstan.

Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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up to 4 guests
1
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October 2024
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