Horse Riding to Song-Kol Lake
Ride through alpine landscapes to a celestial lake
Magical Kyrgyzstan 6 Day Tour combines Ysyk-Kol South Shore, Song-Kol, Ysyk-Kol. Enjoy a guided journey through Kyrgyzstan with local experiences, scenic routes and authentic stays.
Magical Kyrgyzstan 6 Day Tour combines Ysyk-Kol South Shore, Song-Kol, Ysyk-Kol. Enjoy a guided journey through Kyrgyzstan with local experiences, scenic routes and authentic stays.
Ride through alpine landscapes to a celestial lake
Sleep in traditional nomadic yurts under the stars
Skazka Canyon, Jeti-Oguz, Barskoon Waterfall
Trek to natural springs (or optional 4×4 for extra fee)
Forested valley, mountain rivers, panoramic views
Explore the capital's Soviet-era architecture and vibrant bazaars
No horse riding experience required!
Cross a high mountain pass with wide views over alpine valleys and the Song-Kol basin.
Open each day to explore the route, experiences and practical details.
Your journey begins with a morning pickup from your hotel in Bishkek. Next, drive to Kyzart Village (approximately 4-5 hours), the gateway to Song-Kol Lake. The route takes you through scenic mountain landscapes and traditional villages.
Upon arrival in Kyzart, meet your horse and guide for the next two days. No horse riding experience is required! Our horses are calm and well-trained.
Begin your horseback journey to Song-Kol Lake. Today's ride takes you through Tuz Ashuu to the lake (5-6 hours). The trail ascends through alpine landscapes, rewarding you with breathtaking views of the turquoise lake set in a bowl of green meadows, surrounded by snow-capped peaks.
Settle into a traditional yurt camp on the lakeshore. Enjoy a hearty Kyrgyz dinner and spectacular stargazing.
Wake early to witness the sunrise over Song-Kol Lake – a magical moment as the first light touches the water. After breakfast, enjoy a final morning ride back to Kyzart Village (3-4 hours gentle descent). Bid farewell to your horses and horseman.
Enjoy lunch in Kyzart, then drive to Bokonbaevo on the southern shore of Ysyk-Kol Lake (approximately 3-4 hours).
Check into a guesthouse with beautiful views of the "Pearl of Central Asia."
Today you'll explore the spectacular southern shore of Ysyk-Kol Lake:
First, we start with Eagle show. Traditional Eagleman’s will show the training with skin of fox.
Skazka Canyon ("Fairy Tale Canyon") – Surreal red, orange, and yellow sandstone formations resembling castles, dragons, and mythical creatures
Barskoon Waterfall – Powerful cascade in a lush gorge; short hike to feel the refreshing mist
Jeti-Oguz Valley – Iconic "Seven Bulls" red rock formation and the legendary "Broken Heart" rock
Drive to Karakol for overnight.
Today you have two options to reach the famous Altyn Arashan Valley ("Golden Spa"):
Option 2 – 4×4 Vehicle (extra fee): Take a classic Soviet UAZ 4×4 vehicle for a rugged off-road journey (1.5-2 hours). This option is easier and faster.
Upon arrival in the pristine alpine valley, enjoy the famous natural hot springs. Soak in the mineral-rich waters surrounded by snow-capped peaks including Palatka Peak (5,200m).
Stay overnight in a guesthouse in the valley.
After breakfast, enjoy a final morning soak in the hot springs, then trek back to Ak-Suu Village (approximately 4 hours descent). (If you used 4×4 on Day 4, you can also use 4×4 for return for extra fee.)
Transfer to Karakol for lunch, then drive to Chon-Kemin National Park (approximately 3-4 hours). This protected natural area is known for its pristine beauty – forests, rivers, and dramatic mountain scenery.
Check into a forest guesthouse, offering a tranquil setting surrounded by pine trees and mountain views.
After breakfast, depart Chon-Kemin and drive to Bishkek. En route, stop at the historic Burana Tower, an 11th-century Silk Road minaret. Climb the tower for panoramic views and explore the ancient balbal stones.
Upon arrival in Bishkek, enjoy a city tour exploring the capital's highlights:
Ala-Too Square – Main square with Independence Monument
Oak Park – Shaded alleys with bronze sculptures
Victory Square – Memorial to WWII heroes
Osh Bazaar – Vibrant market for last-minute souvenirs
The tour concludes with drop-off at your hotel or Manas International Airport.
Discover the landscapes, culture and unforgettable moments of this journey.
The right gear makes your journey more comfortable and enjoyable. Here’s what we recommend for this tour.
Before your journey, please review the following practical information to help you prepare for a comfortable and enjoyable trip through Kyrgyzstan.
Major towns and cities accept credit and debit cards, but in villages and remote areas cash in Kyrgyz Som (KGS) is essential.
Mobile internet works well in cities but can be unstable or unavailable in high mountain regions. A local SIM card is recommended.
Kyrgyzstan uses 220V electricity with Type C and Type F sockets. Bring an adapter when required.
Kyrgyz and Russian are the main languages. English is increasingly common in tourism, while a few local words are useful in rural communities.
Travel insurance should include emergency medical care and the outdoor or adventure activities in your itinerary.
Choose a tour that matches your mobility and fitness level. Some itineraries include long drives, walking, trekking or horse riding.
Many journeys reach high elevations. Hydrate well, pace yourself and tell your guide if you feel unwell.
Mountain weather changes quickly. Pack layers and weather-resistant clothing for sun, wind, rain and cold temperatures.
Find answers to the most common questions about this tour.
The 6-day Magical Kyrgyzstan itinerary is ideal for travelers who want mountain scenery, nomadic culture, and a genuine horse-riding experience in Kyrgyzstan.
It combines horse riding with walking or hiking. Basic fitness is recommended, while the guide can adjust the pace to the group.
The program uses traditional yurt camps, local guesthouses and hotels, depending on the day. Exact facilities are shown in the detailed itinerary and may be simpler in remote mountain areas.
The standard Best Season is March–November. Mountain conditions vary by altitude, so the exact route and activities may be adjusted for weather and local conditions.
Meals are included as specified for each day in the itinerary. Please tell Kyrgyz Wonders in advance about vegetarian meals, allergies, or other dietary requirements.
Coverage is generally better in towns and villages, while remote valleys, mountain passes, yurt camps, and high-altitude areas may have weak or no signal.
Bring layered clothing, sun and weather protection, a refillable water bottle, personal medication, and closed-toe shoes suitable for riding, comfortable hiking shoes, a swimsuit, warm layers for cool yurt-camp evenings. Use the 8 What to Pack categories in the Tour Builder for the complete checklist.
Yes. Private tours can be adjusted for your dates, group size, preferred pace, accommodation level, and selected activities, subject to weather and local conditions.
Tell us your preferred dates and group size. Our local team will prepare a personalized proposal.