Nomadic Kyrgyzstan – 11 Days

Your journey begins with a morning pickup from your hotel in Bishkek. Next, drive east and stop at the historic Burana Tower, an 11th-century Silk Road minaret. Climb to the top for panoramic views of the Chuy Valley and explore the ancient balbal stones.

Continue to the dramatic Kok Moinok Canyon, often called Kyrgyzstan's "Grand Canyon." Walk among the striking red sandstone formations sculpted by wind and water.

Arrive in Kochkor, a village famous for its traditional felt crafts. Afterward, check into a guesthouse.

After breakfast, drive to Kyzart Village, the gateway to Song-Kol Lake. Meet your horse and guide for the next two days. In addition, no horse riding experience is required! Our horses are calm and well-trained.

Begin your horseback journey with a 4-5 hour ride to Kilemche Valley (2,600m). Along the way, the trail follows the Chaar-Archa River through rolling hills and alpine meadows. The pace is slow and relaxed, giving you time to build confidence and enjoy the stunning scenery.

Settle into a traditional yurt camp for the night.

After breakfast, saddle up for today's ride to Song-Kol Lake via Tuz Ashuu Pass (3,400m). The trail ascends through alpine landscapes, rewarding you with breathtaking first views of Song-Kol Lake below – a vast turquoise expanse set in a bowl of green meadows, surrounded by snow-capped peaks.

Descend to the lakeshore for lunch at a traditional yurt camp. Finally, after lunch, enjoy a relaxed ride along the lake's western shore, visiting a local nomadic family's camp to observe traditional herding and dairy production.

Settle into your yurt camp at Song-Kol Lake for the night.

After breakfast, bid farewell to Song-Kol Lake. Next, drive to Tash-Bashat Village via the famous "32 Parrots" Pass (Terskey Torpok Pass), named for its numerous serpentine switchbacks offering spectacular mountain views.

Tash-Bashat is a village deeply connected to Kyrgyz traditions. Afterward, check into a guesthouse with private facilities and Wi-Fi.

Today's off-road adventure takes you deeper into the mountains toward remote Kel-Suu Lake, near the Chinese border. A border permit is required and included.

The drive takes you through the beautiful At-Bashy Valley, crossing Kyndy Pass (3,500m). Descend into the vast Ak-Say Valley, where you'll see traditional yurts and herders tending to yaks and horses.

Arrive at your yurt camp near Kel-Suu Lake in the late afternoon.

After breakfast, explore the magnificent Kel-Suu Lake. Walk along the shoreline, photograph the turquoise waters against towering cliffs, and absorb the profound silence of this remote location. Optional horse riding is available for an extra fee.

After lunch, drive to Naryn City (approximately 4-5 hours). Check into a guesthouse.

After breakfast, drive to Kochkor Village, then continue to the dramatic Ak-Say Canyon for a walk through its "Martian-like" landscapes of red rock formations.

Experience a captivating eagle hunting demonstration with a local berkutchi – an ancient nomadic tradition passed down through generations. Watch as the magnificent golden eagle responds to its master's commands.

Arrive in Bokonbaevo on the southern shore of Ysyk-Kol Lake. Check into a yurt camp.

Today you'll explore the spectacular southern shore of Ysyk-Kol Lake:

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 return to Karakol (trek back 4 hours, or 4×4 option for extra fee).

From Karakol, 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 for the night.

After breakfast, depart Chon-Kemin and drive to Bishkek. If time permits, stop at the historic Burana Tower (or if visited on Day 1, you may skip).

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.