This short trekking adventure leads into the heart of Kyrgyzstan’s nomadic highlands. Starting from Kyzart village, the route crosses vast alpine pastures, scenic mountain passes, and remote valleys before reaching the spectacular lake Song-Kol at 3,016 meters.
The jailoos are the high mountain pastures where Kyrgyz shepherds bring their flocks during the summer months. Among them, Song-Kol Lake is the true jewel — a vast alpine lake covering 270 km², located at 3,016 meters above sea level and surrounded by mountains rising to 3,700 meters.
To experience the jailoos in their most authentic form, the trek approaches Song-Kol through the mountains on the western side of the Kochkor Valley, moving from one pasture to another and staying with shepherd families in remote alpine meadows far from tourist routes.
Along the way you will enjoy the simple but unforgettable flavors of nomadic life — homemade jam, fresh cream, warm bread from the oven, and traditional kymyz (fermented mare’s milk).
The route crosses the remote landscapes of Jumgal region and reaches Song-Kol via Jalgyz-Karagai Pass (“Lone Fir Pass”), descending toward the northern shores of the lake.
Activity: Trekking / Jailoo Hike
Duration: 3 Days
Route: Bishkek – Kyzart – Kilemche – Song-Kol – Bishkek
Total Distance: 43.4 km (hiking)
Total Ascent: 2,046 m
Total Descent: 2,403 m
Highest Elevation: 3,324 m
Lowest Elevation: 2,300 m
Season: June – September
Accommodation: Yurts
Group Size: 2–12 travelers
Level: Moderate
This trek includes daily hikes of 5–6 hours across mountain terrain with gradual climbs and descents.
The route crosses passes above 3,000 meters, so basic fitness and comfort walking in mountain conditions are recommended.
No technical climbing skills are required.
3-Day Trek to Song-Kol Lake
Morning departure from Bishkek toward the Jumgal region, driving through scenic mountain landscapes to Kyzart Pass (approx. 3–4 hours).
From Kyzart the trek begins across the vast Kyzyl-Kiya Jailoo, a wide alpine pasture that stretches like a green ocean across the mountains. The trail continues over Chaar-Archa Pass (3,061 m) and descends into the picturesque Chaar-Archa Valley.
Enjoy a picnic lunch beside a rushing mountain river with views toward the sacred Baba-Ata Peak (4,400 m).
In the afternoon cross the river and hike over rolling green hills to Kilemche Jailoo. The name Kilemche means “like a carpet,” referring to the endless grassy pastures covering the mountains, reminiscent of the patterns of a traditional Kyrgyz shyrdak felt carpet.
Dinner and overnight in a traditional yurt camp.
Driving time: 3–4 hours
Trekking time: 5–6 hours
After breakfast begin the ascent to Jalgyz-Karagai Pass (3,400 m). The climb offers magnificent views back toward the green pastures of Kilemche Jailoo.
The rocky mountain pass marks the entrance to the vast Song-Kol Basin. From here the famous alpine lake gradually appears, growing larger with every step as the surrounding mountains rise dramatically around it.
After a lunch stop near Jaman-Echki Valley, continue trekking along the lakeshore toward Tuz-Ashuu Jailoo.
Upon arrival you will meet a local Kyrgyz shepherd family, your hosts for the night.
Dinner and overnight in a traditional nomadic yurt beside the lake.
Trekking time: approx. 5 hours
Enjoy your final breakfast in the peaceful atmosphere of Song-Kol Jailoo.
The trek continues over Tuz-Ashuu Pass, offering spectacular panoramic views of both Song-Kol Lake and the Jumgal Valley.
Descend to Kyzart village, where lunch will be served in a local family homestay.
In the afternoon transfer back to Bishkek, arriving around 19:00.
Included
Not Included
Moments that stay with you
The tours start upon request, please contact us. The itineraries can be adjusted individually to fit into your schedule and provide you with the best experience. Furthermore, we are happy to create tailor-made tours according to your wishes.
After having solved all the questions and programs confirming we issue an invoice for payment. You can make a bank transfer or pay upon your arrival time in Bishkek before the trip starts.
Kyrgyzstan is a mountain country and some point you prefer to do walking and hiking. We recommend you train with sport or jogging 2-3 times a week in the run-up to your trip
No, this is not a fixed group departure. The trek is organized privately and can be arranged on the dates that suit your travel plans. Please contact us to schedule the tour.
No. You do not need to carry heavy luggage during the trek.
All meals and overnight stays are provided in yurt camps, so you only need to carry a small backpack with your personal items, warm clothing, water, and basic daily essentials.
We recommend bringing:
• A small day backpack (20–30 L)
• Warm clothing for mountain weather
• Personal items and toiletries
• Sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses
Your main luggage can stay in Bishkek or with the driver during the trek.
There are many clear mountain rivers and springs along the trekking route.
However, we recommend bringing a water filter bottle or purification tablets so you can safely refill water during the hike.
During the trek you will stay in traditional Kyrgyz yurt camps hosted by local shepherd families.
These simple but comfortable nomadic homes offer a unique cultural experience, including traditional homemade meals and hospitality.
The basic hints for travelers.
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