Season: Jun – Sep
Duration: 14 days, 13 nights (8 days of trekking)
Region: Kyrgyzstan
Cost per person in USD: $ 2550 (4-10 pax)
Tour Code: GACA-KYRUCM-14
Fixed Departure 2025: 15-28 Jun, 13-26 July, 17-30 Aug
Level: Intermediate
Kyrgyzstan is home for the magnificent Tien Shan mountain range, which offers many trails for lovers of trekking. Hiking through the valleys, forests and mountain trails is a great way to spend a vacation and explore the natural beauty of the country.
Some information
1. LEVEL
For good walker. 5 to 7 hours of walking a day, +/- 1100 m of altitude difference on average per day. Accessible to children who are good walkers and motivated from the age of 12 (with their parents). Being able to easily walk 12 km (in plain) in 2 hours maximum. If this is not the case, within three weeks before departure we advise you to undertake a little training (2 to 3 times a week): 4 to 5 km of jogging or 2 to 3 hours hiking or biking. Your physical preparation will facilitate your stay and allow you to appreciate it even more.
2. LUGGAGE TRANSFER DURING HIKE
You only carry a backpack for the day with the necessary for your hike. Your luggage will be transferred by horses during the trek at Max 10 kg per luggage per person.
3. ACCOMMODATION
(1) Hotel 4 Nights
- 3-star : Day 1 & Day 13 Bishkek ~ My Hotel or similar; Day 7 Karakol ~ My Hotel or similar
- 4-star : Day 6 Сholpon Ata /Issyk Kul ~ Kapriz Resort Hotel or similar
- Note: Check in after 2pm, Check out 12noon
(2) Guesthouse 3 Nights
- Day 2 Chon Kemin ~ Kemin Guesthouse or similar
- Day 8 Bokonbaevo ~ Emily Guesthouse or similar
- Day 10 Kochkor ~ Mira Guesthouse or similar
(3) Tent 4 Nights
- Day 3 – Day 5, Day 9 ~ Own Sleeping bag & mat
(4) Yurt Camp 2 Nights ~ yurt capacity 4-5 people.
- Day 11 Kilemche ~ Toilets outside. No shower.
- Day 12 Son Kul ~ Toilets & shower outside. During the low season, you can be accommodated 2pax per yurt according to the availability.
Note
- The offered accommodation options are subject to availability.
- Reservations are made only after confirmation and payment.
- Set menu includes salad, soup, main course, bread, tea & water
Itinerary
Subject to changes
We may have to modify the indicated itinerary: either at the level of the organization (problem of overload of the accommodations, duplication of the groups, modification of the state of the ground, landslides, degraded trails, etc.), or directly because of the guide (weather, group level, etc.). These modifications are always made in your interest, for your safety and for a better comfort!
Day 1
Arrival Bishkek
Pick-up Manas Airport in Bishkek and transfer to the capital (check-in at the hotel after 14:00).
At 11am, we start our city tour in Bishkek – Ala- Too Square, Oak Park and the local market Osh bazar. In the evening, dinner in restaurant where you can taste delicious Kyrgyz national dishes.
Meals included: Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Hotel 3* (My Hotel or similar)
Note: it is highly recommended to book an extra night at the hotel, as most flights to Bishkek arrive late at night or early in the morning.
Day 2
Bishkek – Burana – Chon Kemin (distance 200 km, 3h)
After breakfast in hotel, transfer to visit Burana Tower, an ancient minaret in the Chuy Valley before head to the Tar Suu village located in Chon Kemin Valley, known for its beauty and the rich diversity of animals and plants. You go for a walk in the village to explore the lifestyle of the local people.
Dinner at the guesthouse.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Guesthouse (Kemin Guesthouse)
Day 3
Chon Kemin – Toru Aigyr (Trek 10 km, +750m, 4h)
After breakfast, transfer to start point near the Chon Kemin River for our 4-days trek to the north shore of Issyk Kul Lake.
The luggage is carried by the horses (You only take the necessary things for 4 days of the trek and the rest of the luggage you leave in the vehicle with your driver). The trek goes through the slopes of the mountains covered with fir trees, then through the forest to the pastures of Toru Aigyr. We set up our tents there. Dinner and overnight in a tent.
Meals included: breakfast, lunch, dinner
Accommodation: Tent
Day 4
Toru Aigyr – Kol Kogur Lake (Trek 11 km, +300m, -320m, 5h)
Hike towards Kol Kogur Lake at 2,500 meters on the northern slope of the Kungey Ala-Too mountains in a picturesque wooded area. It is considered to be one of the most beautiful mountain lakes in Northern Tien Shan. The lake has a trapezoidal shape.
On the shore of the lake, we set up tents, and enjoy the magnificent landscapes around us.
Meals included: breakfast, lunch, dinner
Accommodation: Tent
Day 5
Kol Kogur Lake – Kyzyl Aska (Trek 14 km, + 880m, -800m, 5-6h)
Cross the 3347-meter-high pass and descend towards the pastures of Kyzyl Aska, setting up our tents not far from the river.
Meals included: breakfast, lunch, dinner
Accommodation: Tent
Day 6
Kyzyl Aska – Сholpon Ata /Issyk Kul (Trek 11 km, -500m, 3-4h)
From Kyzyl Aska we continue our path to Achyk Tash, where we meet our driver and brings us to the north shore of Issyk Kul Lake, the pearl of the Kyrgyz land. Issyk Kul is the second largest alpine lake in the world after Titicaca. Its name means “hot lake” in Kyrgyz language.
Rest for the day or if you want, you can swim in the lake
Meals included: breakfast, lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Hotel 4* (Kapriz Resort Hotel or similar)
Day 7
Cholpon Ata – Grigoriev and Semenov gorges – Karakol (Distance 160 km, 3h)
Visit the Grigoriev and Semenov Gorge. You can go for a walk, enjoy the wild nature and picnic in the gorge or lunch in the cafe on the road.
As we arrive in Karakol, visit the Orthodox Church and the Dungan Mosque.
Meals included: breakfast, lunch, dinner
Accommodation: Hotel 3* (My Hotel or similar)
Day 8
Karakol – Jety Oguz – Barskoon – Bokonbaevo (Distance 150 km, 3-4h)
After a hearty breakfast, get ready to be wowed by the legendary Jeti Oguz Gorge! But first, a stop at the “Broken Heart” rock formation – a natural wonder that’s as romantic as it is impressive. Snap some pics, soak in the views, and let the legend of this unique landmark spark your imagination! 💔✨
After savoring a delicious lunch at a local café or guesthouse, our next stop is the enchanting Skazka Canyon! Prepare to be amazed by the whimsical rock formations – you might spot a towering skyscraper, a playful animal, or even a hidden dragon! Let your imagination run wild as you explore this otherworldly landscape.
In Bokonbaevo, we’ll have a unique encounter with a traditional eagle hunter! Witness the incredible bond between the hunter and their majestic bird, and learn about this ancient Kyrgyz tradition. Prepare to be awestruck by the eagle’s speed and precision!
Finally, we’ll settle into our cozy guesthouse for a delicious dinner and a well-deserved rest.
Meals included: breakfast, lunch, dinner
Accommodation: Guesthouse (Emily Guesthouse)
Day 9
Bokonbaevo – Kara Tumshuk – Ashuu-Tor – Kyzyl-Kia (3300 m) – Jazuu-Kechuu (trek 15km 7h, +1650m -580m)
After a hearty breakfast at our cozy guesthouse, we’re hitting the road! A short and scenic drive brings us to the charming village of Kara Tumshuk, where our 2-day hiking escapade begins!
Get those boots laced up and spirits high as we embark on a journey towards the stunning Ashuu-Tor jailoo! Along the way, we’ll find the perfect spot to enjoy a delightful picnic lunch surrounded by nature’s beauty.
As the day unfolds, prepare to be captivated by a breathtaking sunset over the legendary Issyk-Kul Lake! The vibrant colors painting the sky will be a memory to cherish forever.
Our final destination for the day is the serene Jazuu-Kechuu jailoo. We’ll pitch our tents under a blanket of stars, sharing stories and laughter around a crackling campfire. Get ready for a night of true wilderness magic!
Meals included: breakfast, lunch, dinner
Accommodation: Tent
Day 10
Jazuu-Kechuu – Boz-Salkyn (trek 10 km, -+390m -915m, 7h) / Bokonbaevo – Kochkor (ca. 120 km, 2h)
After a power breakfast, get ready to embrace Tash-Tar Ata! We’re embarking on an epic hike that’ll take us to dizzying heights of 3,600 meters! But don’t worry, the views are totally worth the effort.
Savour a delicious lunch while soaking in jaw-dropping views of Issyk-Kul Lake sparkling below.
From the summit, we’ll make our descent to the picture-perfect Boz-Salkyn jailoo. Here, our trusty driver will be waiting to whisk us away to the charming village of Kochkor.
Upon arrival in Kochkor, it’s time to kick back, relax those muscles, and enjoy a refreshing shower. You deserve it! We’ll cap off the day with a delicious dinner and a restful night in a cozy guesthouse.
Meals included: breakfast, lunch, dinner
Accommodation: Guesthouse (Mira Guesthouse)
[Day 11
Kochkor – Kyzart (ca. 70 km, 1h) / Kyzart – Kilemche (trek 17km 4-5h +200m)
After a hearty breakfast at our guesthouse, we’re hitting the road! Buckle up for a scenic drive to the charming village of Kyzart – our launchpad for an unforgettable two-day hiking adventure!
Get ready to be amazed by the Kilemche Valley! This place is so vibrant, its name literally means “carpet” in Kyrgyz. And trust us, it lives up to the hype! Imagine hiking through a valley blanketed with a kaleidoscope of wildflowers and lush mountain grasses. It’s like stepping into a real-life fairytale!
We’ve got a delicious picnic planned amidst the stunning scenery. Think fresh air, good company, and mouthwatering local flavors.
As the day winds down, we’ll reach our destination: a traditional shepherds’ yurt camp! Experience the nomadic life as we settle into these cozy dwellings and enjoy a hearty dinner under the starry sky.
Meals included: breakfast, lunch, dinner
Accommodation: Yurt camp
Note: 4-6 people per a yurt. Toilets are outside. No shower in the camp.
Day 12
Kilemche – Son Kul (trek 14 km, 5-6 h, +800 m, -400 m)
After a hearty breakfast, we’re back on the trail! Today’s adventure takes us to new heights (literally!) as we embrace the majestic Tuz Ashu pass, soaring 3,400 meters above sea level.
From the top of the pass, Son Kul Lake looks like a tiny sapphire gem nestled amongst the mountains. But as we descend, prepare to be awestruck as it transforms into a vast, shimmering expanse of blue – a sight you won’t soon forget! Once we reach our yurt camp, get ready for a truly immersive cultural experience! You’ll be welcomed with open arms by the nomadic families who call this stunning landscape home. Learn about their unique way of life, traditions, and maybe even try your hand at some of their daily activities.
After a delicious dinner featuring authentic nomadic cuisine, settle into your cozy yurt for a night under the stars. Drift off to sleep with the sounds of nature and wake up to the beauty of Son Kul Lake on your doorstep.
Meals included: breakfast, picnic lunch, dinner
Accommodation: Yurt camp
Note: 4-6 people per yurt. Toilets are outside. No shower in the camp.
Day 13
Son Kul – Bishkek (Distance 315 km, 5-6h)
Return to the capital after breakfast in the yurt, descending from Kalmak Ashu pass of 3400m, Boom gorge and Kochkor.
In Bishkek we will have time to visit the local market to buy some presents, and in the evening the farewell dinner awaits us.
Meals included: breakfast, lunch, dinner
Accommodation: Hotel 3* (My Hotel or similar)
Day 14
Bishkek – Airport – Departure (distance. 30 km, 40 min)
After one last delicious breakfast together, it’s time to say goodbye (for now!). We’ll transfer you to the airport, where you’ll begin your journey home, filled with memories of epic landscapes, incredible experiences, and newfound friends.
Safe travels, and until next time! 👋
P.S. Don’t forget to share your amazing photos and stories with us!
Meals included: breakfast
Price Per Person in USD$ 2550 (4-10 pax)
bTour Code: GACA-KYRUCM-14
| Departure Dates (Year 2025) | Twin (USD) | Single (USD) |
| 15-28 Jun, 13-26 July, 17-30 Aug | 2,550 | 2,920* |
* Single supplement except for yurt camps and guesthouse in Kyzart
Cost includes
- Group transfers in comfortable and air conditioned vehicle
- Experience driver
- English speaking local guide
- Accommodation described in the program
- Full board Meals (Day 1 Lunch till Day 14 breakfast)
- Visits indicated in the program
- Eagle hunting
- Horses for carrying the baggage during the trek (day 3,4,5,6,9 & 10)
- Tents during the trek (2 pax per tent)
- Briefing before departure
Cost excludes
- All airfare & taxes
- Airport transfer: USD 25 / way / car (1-2 pax), USD 45 / way / car (3-4 pax), USD 70 / way / car (5-10 pax)
- Personal gears (sleeping bag & mat)
- Expenses of a personal nature like laundry, phone calls, alcohol, beverages, cigarettes
- Travel Insurance
- Any costs arising out of unforeseen circumstances such as bad weather, landslides, road conditions and any other circumstances beyond our control.
- Tips for guide, driver etc.
- Optional activities
- Porters for luggage during the 2-day trek to Son-Kul-Lake (days 11, 12)
- Visa and Visa application fees
- Early check-in & late check-out**
- All those not mentioned in “the price includes”
Note
**Check-in after 14:00, check-out before 12:00
Early check-in on arrival day in Bishkek: 95 USD per DBL/TWN room
More Information
GUIDE
A local certified mountain guide.
GROUP
4 to 10 people.
START / END
Start: Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan
End: Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan
CONFIRMATION NOTICE
You will receive about two weeks before your departure, a confirmation notice specifying the time and place of the appointment, the name and contact information of the guide and the address of the first accommodation.
Extend your stay
You can extend your trip before or after the trek on request.
DATES
At your convenience, from mid June to mid September. Go out with friends or family at the dates that suit you. Customisation possible from 6 people. When you book the tour please give us one or two other departure dates in case your 1st choice is not possible. Price may differ from the above cost.
In your luggages
Packing for your Europe Summer Hike