Alma-Ata (now Almaty):
Alma-Ata, meaning “Father of Apples,” is the former name of Almaty, Kazakhstan’s largest city and cultural hub. Nestled in the Trans-Ili Alatau mountains, Almaty was the capital until 1997. It blends modern life with a rich Silk Road history, offering experiences from mountain hikes to exploring vibrant markets like the Green Bazaar. Key attractions include the Central State Museum and Kok-Tobe Hill.
Charyn Canyons:
Located 200 km east of Almaty, Charyn Canyons are known as Kazakhstan’s “Grand Canyon.” The canyons feature stunning rock formations and the famous Valley of Castles. Visitors can hike, camp, and marvel at the unique landscape shaped by the Charyn River, offering a dramatic, colorful terrain.
Kyrgyzstan:
Kyrgyzstan is a mountainous country where 96% of the land is elevated. Its rugged roads, changing weather, and cash-based economy offer a sense of adventure. Highlights include Song-Kol Lake, a remote high-altitude gem, and Issyk-Kol Lake, one of the world’s deepest, with unfrozen waters year-round.
Itinerary Highlights:
Tour Highlights:
What to Bring: To ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience, please pack weatherproof warm clothing, trekking boots, a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen.
Start your journey from Almaty at 9:00 AM, heading towards the stunning Charyn Canyons. Be sure to prepare your lunch boxes and snacks for a planned picnic along the way.
Charyn Canyons Exploration:
Upon arrival, spend 2-3 hours exploring the dramatic landscapes of the Charyn Canyons. Enjoy a hike through the breathtaking scenery, including the famous Valley of Castles, before stopping for a scenic picnic lunch.
Afternoon – Continue to Saty Village:
After lunch, continue your journey to the village of Saty, where you’ll be welcomed by a local family at a cozy homestay. Experience authentic Kazakh hospitality with a homemade dinner and overnight stay in this charming countryside village.
Driving Distance: ~300 km
Driving Time: 5-6 hours
Saty Village Homestay
Nestled in the heart of the Kazakh countryside, Saty Village Homestay offers a warm and authentic experience, where local residents are eager to welcome you into their homes and share their traditional way of life.
Each homestay is unique, with simple, comfortable rooms featuring 3 to 4 beds. Shared bathroom and shower facilities are available, ensuring a cozy and communal atmosphere. The locals are happy to host both individuals and small groups, making you feel like part of the family.
Mealtimes are a special highlight, giving you the chance to fully immerse yourself in Kazakhstan’s rich culinary culture. You can watch or even assist your hosts as they prepare traditional dishes like pilaf, and then enjoy a hearty meal together, sharing stories over fragrant tea.
Conveniently located near the scenic Kol-Say and Kaiyndy Lakes, Saty Village Homestay provides an inviting, cultural escape, perfect for travelers seeking a genuine rural experience.
Start your day early with breakfast at 7:00 AM to make the most of your morning visit to the beautiful Kol-Say Lake.
Morning – Visit to Kol-Say Lake:
Enjoy a peaceful morning exploring the stunning surroundings of Kol-Say Lake before heading back for brunch.
Brunch and Travel to Kegen Border:
After brunch, begin your journey to the Kegen border crossing. Upon crossing into Kyrgyzstan, take a break for a picnic lunch in the wild, featuring coffee, snacks, and fresh fruit. For late afternoon arrive in Karakol town. Accommodation in the guesthouse. Dinner at local cafes.
Driving Distance: 220-230 km
Driving Time: 4-5 hours
Guesthouse
For your accommodations, we offer comfortable twin rooms with all the essentials to ensure a relaxing stay.
After breakfast, we will transfer you to the Ak-Suu Gorge, where you’ll switch from your minibus to an off-road Kamaz truck. Prepare for an exhilarating 13 km journey into the breathtaking mountain valley of Altyn-Arashan, which takes approximately 2 hours. This stunning valley is renowned for its natural hot springs and the towering snow-capped peak of Palatka (4,650 m).
Exploration of Altyn-Arashan:
Upon arrival, take some time to soak in the magnificent scenery and explore the valley. Enjoy your picnic lunch by the Altyn-Arashan River, surrounded by the beautiful landscape. (Be sure to prepare your lunch box or snacks in Karakol by visiting the local food stores and markets).
Downhill Hike to Ak-Suu:
After lunch, embark on a downhill hike back to Ak-Suu, following a 15 km trail along the Arashan River through lush forests and scenic mountain slopes. For those who prefer not to walk the entire distance, the off-road truck will trail behind and can pick up anyone who needs a break, ensuring a comfortable return to the minibuses.
Return to Guesthouse:
In the late afternoon, we will transfer you back to the guesthouse. Relax and unwind, and for dinner, you can explore local cafes for a taste of the regional cuisine.
Today, you will travel to Bokonbaevo, located along the stunning southern shore of Issyk-Kul Lake. This day offers a diverse range of landscapes, from the vibrant red canyons of Jeti-Oguz to the serene mountain waterfall at Barskoon.
Morning:
Start your day with a visit to Jeti-Oguz gorges, Barskoon Gorge, where you’ll take a short walk to the panorama view of Seven Bulls and scenic Barskoon Waterfall. After enjoying the fresh mountain air, settle down for a picnic lunch amidst the beauty of the gorge. (Be sure to prepare your lunch box or snacks in Karakol by visiting the local food stores and markets).
Afternoon:
Continue your adventure to Canyon Skazka, where you’ll meet local Golden Eagle hunters. Learn about the ancient Kyrgyz tradition of hunting with birds of prey, and witness these incredible eagles in action against the backdrop of this dramatic landscape.
Evening:
Arrive in the village of Bokonbaevo in the late afternoon. You’ll be welcomed into a charming yurtcamp, where a warm dinner awaits. Relax and enjoy the hospitality of the local yurtcamp which is located on the lakeshore of Issyk-Kul.
Driving Distance: ~160-170 km
Driving Time: ~3 hours
Yurt camp
Enjoy comfortable yurt camps equipped with shower facilities and flush toilets located in the garden. Each yurt accommodates 3 to 4 beds, providing a cozy and inviting atmosphere for your stay.
Begin your day with breakfast at 07:00 AM. For early risers, there’s an optional morning hike to the Shatyly Panorama to greet the sunrise. A short transfer will take you to the Boz-Salkyn mountain slopes, where you’ll embark on a gentle 3.5 km round-trip walk to the Shatyly viewpoint. From this vantage point, enjoy a breathtaking bird’s-eye view of Issyk-Kul Lake, soaking in the serenity of the early morning.
Mid-Morning:
Return to the car, where your team will greet you with freshly brewed coffee. After a light brunch, continue your journey to the legendary nomad’s land of Song-Kol Valley.
Afternoon:
On the way, stop for lunch in the village of Kochkor, where you can visit the local cafes and order your meals. Arrive at Song-Kol (3000m) in the afternoon, where you’ll be welcomed at a traditional yurt camp.
Evening:
Enjoy a hearty dinner and a peaceful night’s sleep in your yurt, surrounded by the expansive beauty of Song-Kol Valley.
Driving Distance: ~250 km
Driving Time: 4-5 hours
Yurt camp
For your overnight stay, we offer traditional yurts featuring 3 to 4 beds each. Please note that the restroom facilities are basic and located outside.
Begin your day by the tranquil lakeside, immersing yourself in the traditional nomadic lifestyle. After breakfast at 9:00 AM, take in the breathtaking beauty of Song-Kol Valley, with its wide-open spaces and serene mountain vistas.
Mid-Morning:
Travel through the spectacular 32-serpentine mountain pass, with a short stop to visit the Song-Kol Waterfall. Along the way, enjoy coffee breaks at scenic spots, allowing time to soak in the peaceful surroundings.
Lunch and Cultural Experience in Kochkor Village:
Continue to Kochkor village for lunch with a local family. During your visit, learn about the Kyrgyz tradition of felt carpet-making, and witness a demonstration of the intricate Shyrdak technique. This hands-on cultural experience will give you a deeper understanding of Kyrgyz craftsmanship.
Evening:
Arrive in Bishkek by late afternoon and check into your hotel. End of the tour
Driving Distance: ~350 km
| Departure | End | Status | Price | Book |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Jun 16, 2025 - Mon |
Jun 21, 2025 - Sat |
Available |
from 570 USD |
|
Jul 21, 2025 - Mon |
Jul 26, 2025 - Sat |
Available |
from 570 USD |
|
Aug 25, 2025 - Mon |
Aug 30, 2025 - Sat |
Available |
from 570 USD |
Inclusions:
Exclusions:
Kyrgyzstan offers visa-free entry to many nationalities. For detailed information on entry requirements, visit the official Kyrgyzstan E-Visa website: http://www.evisa.e-gov.kg.
For Kazakhstan, you can check the visa details here: https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/mfa/press/article/details/6764?lang=en.
We recommend checking visa requirements ahead of time, as visa-free entry may limited depending on your citizenship. If you’re not eligible for visa-free travel, feel free to contact us, and our team will assist you with any necessary documentation.
Once all questions are addressed and the itinerary is confirmed, we will issue an invoice for a 50% deposit to secure your booking. The remaining balance can be paid in cash when you meet our tour guide in Almaty.
During the tour, we provide comfortable stays in guesthouses and yurts, featuring Triple and Quadruple rooms. If you prefer Twin or Single rooms, an additional fee of $120 will apply.
The tour includes some light hiking, walking, and horseback riding (optional) in the mountain regions. The level of physical activity is moderate and suited to most travelers. Those preferring less activity can still enjoy the scenic beauty from our comfortable transport.
Feel free to adjust these questions and answers based on specific client needs or unique aspects of the tour program!
We recommend packing comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing, including layers for varying temperatures. Don’t forget sturdy walking shoes, sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat for sun protection. If you plan to swim in Issyk-Kul Lake, pack a swimsuit as well.
The tour will proceed only if the group reaches a minimum of six participants. If this number is not met, the tour will be canceled, and any prepaid amounts will be refunded to the original payment method upon request.
Please note that traditional Kazakh and Kyrgyz cuisine may not have a wide selection of vegetarian dishes. However, our team is committed to discussing your dietary preferences in advance and will work with you to find suitable options.
Additionally, if you have any specific allergies or intolerances, please inform us ahead of time so we can accommodate your needs.
During the summer months, Central Asia offers an abundance of fresh fruits and vegetables at local markets and bazaars. Furthermore, guesthouses that provide dinner can often prepare vegetarian meals upon request.
Overall, summer months in Kyrgyzstan are comfortable for travel, especially for those interested in outdoor activities. The mountain regions provide a pleasant escape from the heat, and the landscapes are vibrant with greenery and wildflowers.
Kyrgyz Republic. Bishkek city
Mon – Sat 9.00 – 18.00 Sunday CLOSED
© Kyrgyzstan tourism
