Discover the enchanting beauty of Issyk-Kul and Son-Kol lakes, two of Kyrgyzstan's most stunning natural treasures. Issyk-Kul, known as the "Pearl of the Tian Shan," is a vast, turquoise lake surrounded by majestic mountains, offering serene beaches and vibrant local culture. Son-Kol, a high-altitude alpine lake, is a haven for adventure seekers and nature lovers, with its picturesque meadows, traditional yurts, and the rich nomadic lifestyle that still thrives in the area. Both lakes promise unforgettable experiences, whether you're seeking relaxation or an immersive cultural journey.
Tour itinerary
Bishkek – Burana - Chon Kemin- CholponAta- Karakol – AltynArashan- Jety-Oguz – Bokonbaevo – Kochkor- Son-Kul - Bishkek
Day 1. On the first day, we head to Chong-Kemin Valley. Along the way, we visit the Burana architectural complex, an important point on the Great Silk Road located 15 km off the main road. Afterward, we have lunch at a family house in Chong-Kemin and stay overnight at a local guesthouse. There is also an opportunity for horseback riding or strolling around the village.
Day 2. After breakfast, we depart for Karakol, which will take approximately 5 hours. On the way, we make a stop in Cholpon-Ata to visit the open-air gallery of petroglyphs. Then we continue our journey to Karakol and stop for lunch. Upon arrival in Karakol, we visit the Dungan Mosque and the Russian Orthodox Church. Dinner will be at a café, and accommodation will be provided at a guesthouse.
Day 3. In the morning, after breakfast, we depart from Karakol to Ak-Suu. We meet our hiking team and start trekking to the Altyn-Arashan. The first day of the ascent will lead us to a hot spring. Accommodation will be in a cabin or yurt. The trekking time will be approximately 4 hours.
Day 4. After breakfast in Altyn-Arashan, we head back to the village of Ak-Suu, where a driver will meet us. The incredible sight of snow on the peak of Pika Palatka (5260 m) or "Swallow's Nest," located under the open sky, will remain in our memories forever. Then we take a walk down the Arashan Gorge from the Altyn-Arashan resort, which will take about 3 hours. Dinner will be at a café, and accommodation will be provided at a guesthouse.
Day 5. After breakfast, we head to the Jety-Oguz Gorge (Seven Bulls), which will take approximately 1 hour. Then we visit the Kok-Jaiyk area (Valley of Flowers) for 2-3 hours. We have lunch in the yurt camp in Kok-Jaiyk valley and continue our journey to the southern coast of Issyk-Kul Lake, which will take about 2 hours. Dinner and overnight stay will be at a yurt camp near the village of Bokonbaevo.
Day 6. In the morning, we head to the Aituu's yurt camp, where we can witness an eagle hunting demonstration. Then we continue our journey to Song-Kul Lake. Upon arrival, we have lunch at a family house in the village of Kochkor, and evening settle in a yurt camp near Song-Kul Lake.
Day 7. This day is spent enjoying a refreshing and well-deserved rest by the lake. We observe or participate in the daily life of shepherds, milking mares, preparing traditional Kyrgyz dairy products like kymyz or ayran, and taking care of the livestock. Here we have dinner, walk along the lake shore, and hope for favorable legendary weather at Song-Kul Lake. Additionally, there is an opportunity for horseback riding.
Day 8. In the morning, we depart for Bishkek, which will take approximately 5 hours. Upon arrival in Bishkek, the tour concludes.