Amazing 7 Days of Kyrgyzstan

Tour Code:
P212
NZ$3,829
Current Stock:

Duration: 7 Days | 6 Nights
Destination: Kyrgyzstan
Season: 10 June – 20 September. If other dates – we can make a program without Son Kul.

Kyrgyzstan is a landlocked country in Central Asia that is steeped in a rich history and culture. The country's mountainous landscapes, nomadic traditions, and welcoming people make it a hidden gem for travelers seeking a unique and authentic experience.

One of the most striking features of Kyrgyzstan is its breathtaking scenery. The country is home to numerous soaring peaks, including the towering Tian Shan mountains, which provide a stunning backdrop to the countryside. The lush green valleys dotted with yurts and grazing livestock, crystal clear alpine lakes, and rushing rivers add to the stunning beauty of the country. For adventure seekers, trekking and horse riding are popular activities, offering the chance to explore the stunning landscapes up close.

Kyrgyzstan's culture is also fascinating, with a strong nomadic tradition that has been preserved for centuries. The Kyrgyz people are known for their hospitality and welcoming nature towards visitors. They have a unique and fascinating culture that revolves around their nomadic lifestyle, with traditions such as horseback riding and yurt dwelling remaining a vital part of their daily lives. Their cuisine is also something to experience, with dishes such as beshbarmak (a traditional meat and noodle dish) and fermented mare's milk.

In addition to its natural and cultural offerings, Kyrgyzstan is also home to some significant historical sites. The ancient Silk Road passed through Kyrgyzstan, and visitors can explore the ruins of ancient cities such as Balasagun and Osh. The capital city, Bishkek, is a blend of old Soviet-era architecture and modern buildings, and its colorful bazaars and bustling streets provide a glimpse into everyday life in Kyrgyzstan.

Overall, Kyrgyzstan offers a unique and unforgettable travel experience, with its stunning landscapes, fascinating culture, and friendly people. Whether you're an adventure seeker, history buff, or simply looking to explore a new and exciting destination, Kyrgyzstan should be on your travel list.

Day 1: Bishkek
Your guide will pick you up at Manas International Airport and accompany you to the capital city of Kyrgyzstan, just a 30-minute drive from the airport. This entire day is dedicated to a guided tour of Bishkek. It includes visiting Pobeda Square (Victory Square), Duboviy Park (Oak Park), Central Ala-Too Square, National Philharmonic, and many others places of interest. But no tour of Bishkek is complete without visiting our Asian Bazaar! We will show it to you today and you will be able to take a lot of dynamic photos of bustling local life. This bazaar is a noisy and colorful tapestry of fabrics, produce, and people selling and buying goods. Night is at the hotel.

Day 2: Bishkek – Ala Archa – Burana – Chon Kemin
In the morning we will visit Ala Archa gorge. It is a Natural Park. At the Soviet Time only V.I.P. people had permission to go for a walk here. The Ala Archa gorge is on a spur of the Tien Shan Mountain range. It is just 45 km from Bishkek. You can have a short hiking tour to see a panoramic view of the gorge. Then you will be transferred to Chon Kemin gorge. On route to the gorge, you will visit Burana Tower. It is a minaret dating from the 11th century. You can climb to the top if you wish to experience the same view that Silk Road travelers saw themselves. Burana Tower served as a sign along the Great Silk Road to let travelers know there was a city and place to have a rest. Nearby you will see an open-air museum of Balbals (stone warriors). These grave-stones look like warriors as they were made in honor of brave soldiers who died for their Motherland. After your excursion there is a scenic transfer to Chon Kemin gorge. Night is at the guesthouse.

Day 3: Chon Kemin – Issyk Kul lake northern shore – Karakol
Today you will drive to the celestial Issyk Kul Lake, the second largest alpine lake in the world (1608 m above sea level). The lake is called "the pearl of Central Asia". For more than 1 500 years local people considered the lake to be a sacred one. You can come up to the lake and to see mountains all around it. Today you will drive along the whole northern shore and arrive to Karakol town. Also we will visit today a place with ancient stone patterns – petroglyphs. In Karakol we will visit the Dungan mosque. It was built in Chinese style without using a single nail. It will be followed by the visit of an old wooden Orthodox Church. Night is in a hotel.

Day 4: Karakol – Jeti Oguz – Issyk Kul southern shore – Kochkor
Today we will drive to Jeti Oguz gorge. It’s famous for its red rocks formations that have a name Seven Bulls – Jeti Oguz. Also you will see there the Broken Heart Mountain. If you want it is possible to go on a top of a mountain (20 minutes) to see a panorama view of the gorge. Then we continue our trip, breaking in Bokonbaeva village, where we will meet a local eagle-hunter. He hunts hares and foxes with the help of eagles (a traditional way of nomadic hunting). Night is in a guesthouse.

Day 5: Kochkor – Son Kul
In the morning we start our drive to the second largest lake in Kyrgyzstan – Son Kul Lake. This lake is surrounded by mountains and it is the highest alpine lake in Kyrgyzstan, situated at an altitude of 3013 meters above sea level. Kyrgyz nomads started to come to this wonderful area with their families for rest and relaxation. Herders of the Naryn region come to the lake to use it as a pastureland. After our arrival, you will be free to explore and enjoy the virgin nature of the lake and its surroundings. Overnight is in nomadic collapsible dwellings - yurts. They are made of a wooden skeleton, covered with felt coverings.

Day 6: Son Kul – Bishkek
At the morning we will drive to see amazing Moldo Ashu pass! It is one of the most amazing places! After it we will drive to the capital of Kyrgyzstan – Bishkek city. In Kochkor village you will spend some time with a family that will show you the way our national felt carpets are produced. Also you will visit a small handicraft museum there. They have many examples of silver decorations, coats made of wolves, horse saddle decorations, carpets and more. Afterwards you will be transferred to the capital of Kyrgyzstan – Bishkek city. Night is in a hotel.

Day 7: Bishkek – Airport
In the morning is transfer to airport.

Transport: 2-3 pax (Toyota Sequoia), 4-10 pax (Mercedes Sprinter)

Tour Price
• Price shown is for a person based on twin share accommodation, for the travel period indicated.
• All prices displayed are subject to availability and can be withdrawn or varied without notice.
• Prices are guaranteed once booking is confirmed by us and paid in full by the due date.
• Depending on your needs and group size (individual, couple, family, group, etc.) we will provide the final pricing for your tour.

Inclusions:
• Transport
• Accommodation: Bishkek – “Plaza” Hotel 4* Chon Kemin – “Jekshen” Guesthouse, Karakol – “Green Yard” Boutique hotel, Kochkor – “Mira” Guesthouse, Son Kul – “Nomad’s Dream” yurt camp (4 pax in 1)
• English speaking guide
• Entrances to all museums
• Horse riding in Chon Kemin
• Mineral water during the tour

Exclusions:
• Full board
• Single rooms
• Early check-in
• Travel insurance
• Visa and visa support

Please refer to our Standard Booking Conditions for booking terms and conditions.