Discovering Kyrgyz Horizons

You begin your day with a cultural immersion at the ruins of the Burana Minaret. This remnant of the Jami Mosque, a witness to the 13th-century Tatar invasions, offers a unique panoramic view of the surrounding countryside from its summit. After visiting the adjacent museum, you travel to the Chon Kemin Valley. This protected nature reserve surprises with its striking contrasts, blending semi-desert areas, deep gorges, and icy peaks. Once settled in at your host's home, you have the opportunity to discover the wild beauty of these landscapes on a horseback ride departing from the house. You enjoy the tranquility of the mountains for your first night of this immersive experience.

You'll reach the shores of Lake Issyk-Kul, situated at an altitude of 1,609 meters. This veritable inland sea, nestled in the heart of the Tian Shan Mountains, impresses with its crystal-clear waters reflecting peaks exceeding 5,000 meters. In Cholpon-Ata, you'll visit the Ruh-Ordo Cultural Center, a unique place dedicated to spirituality and the world's major religions, offering a serene interlude overlooking the lake.

We then set off for the most beautiful petroglyph site in the country, located a few kilometers from Cholpon Ata . This open-air museum, also known as the Stone Garden, reveals petroglyphs as far as the eye can see, dating back to the Bronze Age up to the 4th century AD. From the site, we are treated to a breathtaking view of the lake and its mountains.

The adventure continues north, where a mountain track leads you into the Chong Ak-Suu Valley. After settling into your homestay, you'll embark on a hike through a wooded area. Your route follows the "Great White River," a powerful torrent that has carved its way through the landscape. You'll enjoy this immersion in nature before returning to your hosts for the evening to share a moment of local conviviality.

Your morning begins with a rejuvenating walk to Sut Bulak Lake, a natural gem nestled in the mountains. You then descend through the Semenovka Valley, following its stream to reach the Orto-Oruktu hot springs. This relaxing break allows you to enjoy mineral-rich waters renowned for their healing properties.

The journey continues to Karakol, a peaceful town on the shores of Lake Issyk-Kul. There, you'll discover a unique architectural heritage: the Holy Trinity Cathedral, a 19th-century wooden Orthodox church, and the Dungan Mosque, whose striking architecture is reminiscent of a Buddhist temple. A visit to the Przewalsky Museum completes this cultural afternoon. In the evening, you'll enjoy a special moment of sharing during a traditional dinner with a Dungan family. Your hosts will introduce you to the history and flavors of this people, originally from western China, who have been settled in the region for over 140 years.

Today you'll embark on a gradual hike to reach the Altyn Arashan site, nestled at an altitude of 3,000 meters. The trail follows the Arashan River, offering a complete immersion in the Kyrgyz wilderness. Once you arrive on this high-altitude plateau, you'll enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the snow-capped peaks of Mount Palakta. A support vehicle will provide logistical assistance for your comfort during this mountain stage.

After the exertion of the climb, you can take a well-deserved break in the site's natural hot springs. These baths, renowned for their healing properties, are perfect for relaxing your muscles while enjoying the breathtaking alpine scenery. You end this active day with a moment of complete relaxation surrounded by nature, before spending the evening in this pristine setting.

You continue your tour of the lake along the southern shore, a wilder and more pristine region. Your first stop takes you to the Jety-Oguz Valley, a spectacular gorge stretching for 37 km. Here you'll discover the famous red rock ridges known as the Seven Bulls, an iconic landscape of Kyrgyzstan. A few hours' hike allows you to immerse yourself in the lush vegetation of this unique natural site.

The adventure continues with the exploration of Skaska Canyon, whose name means "fairy tale." Formed by ancient volcanic eruptions, this labyrinth of multicolored rock formations overlooks the lake's waters. You'll wander among natural sculptures with surprising shapes before reaching the village of Bokonbayevo.

We are witnessing the traditional equestrian game: kok boru , when the riders will fight over the carcass of the decapitated goat.

In the late afternoon, you settle in at your hosts' place for a convivial evening on the south coast of Issyk-Kul.

Your morning begins with an immersion in the ancient art of falconry. You'll witness an impressive demonstration where a Kyrgyz eagle hunter, mounted on his horse, showcases the agility and precision of his golden eagle during a simulated hunt. Afterwards, you'll travel to the village of Kyzyl-Tuu, the cradle of local craftsmanship. A family of passionate artisans will share their expertise in yurt construction. You'll have the opportunity to actively participate in assembling the wooden frame of this iconic nomadic dwelling.

In the mid-afternoon, you'll reach the shores of a salt lake with a very high salt concentration. This unusual stop allows you to experience the natural buoyancy of its waters before ending the day with a refreshing swim in the fresh waters of Lake Issyk-Kul. This contrast in temperature and minerals is the perfect way to conclude a day rich in cultural discoveries.

In the evening in Kochkor we attended a traditional Kyrgyz folk show. The program included a storyteller of Manas (the legendary Kyrgyz heroes), traditional music and songs.

Early in the morning, we are transferred to the small village of Isakaev where our horseback riding trek will begin. We are greeted by our local guide, who will assist us during our ride.

After loading our supplies onto our packhorses, we begin our horseback trek along a trail. We cut across fields and cross a few streams before finally gaining altitude. With each step, new landscapes begin to unfold, giving way to less dense vegetation. Along the way, we can observe herds grazing in the jailoos (traditional sheepfolds). The last hour is a bit more challenging, with the ascent to the pass (3000m) that will lead us to our destination.

Finally, the waters of Kol Ukok are revealed to us. Their turquoise blue contrasts with the green colors of the valley.

We're staying at our host's place, in the yurt.

Two-day self-supported horseback riding trip . Logistics and your personal belongings are carried on packhorses.

We are going to visit Lake Kol Tor, located at an altitude of 3500m.

We follow the river until we reach a scree slope. We continue across this terrain, which becomes increasingly steep, and the grass longer. Be careful in wet weather, as the ground can be slippery.

We set off again towards Kochkor . The descent is intended to be easier and faster.

You'll stop in the mountain town of Naryn, bisected by the river of the same name, before continuing your journey into the highlands. The day will be marked by a true step back in time with the discovery of the Tach Rabat caravanserai. Nicknamed the Stone Hotel, this 15th-century building is one of the best-preserved sites on the legendary Silk Road.

Exploring its many rooms and vaulted corridors, you'll feel the original atmosphere that once welcomed merchant caravans heading to Kashgar. This historic monument, nestled in a secluded valley, testifies to the region's strategic importance for ancient trade. Enjoy the silence and majesty of the place and imagine the lives of travelers of bygone eras within this unique, rocky setting.

Day 11

Today, we will hike to the pass at 3950 m, from where we will have a view of Lake Chatyr-Kul , meaning "heavenly lake" in Kyrgyz. It is located between the peaks of At-Bashy and Torugart-Too, at an altitude of 3530 m, hence its name. As the third largest lake in the country, Chatyr-Kul impresses with its size and the clarity of its waters.

You reach the shores of Lake Son-Kul, a true natural gem and the country's largest freshwater reserve. Perched at an altitude of 3,016 meters in the heart of the Tian Shan Mountains, this immense alpine lake offers a constantly changing spectacle depending on the light. Its exceptionally pure, crystal-clear waters oscillate between deep blue, emerald green, and sometimes even orange hues at sunset.

The site, surrounded by vast pastures where herds graze freely, embodies the very image of the Kyrgyz high mountains. You can take advantage of this unspoiled environment to soak up the serenity of the place, far from any hustle and bustle. It's a privileged setting to observe the lifestyle of the nomads who settle here during the summer, offering a timeless interlude in a picture-postcard landscape.

This day is dedicated to discovering the ancestral way of life of Kyrgyz shepherds. You will share the daily life of your host family and participate in traditional tasks on the high-altitude farm. You will witness the milking of cows, the gathering of herds in the pastures, and the artisanal production of dairy products, staples of the nomadic diet.

After lunch, you have the option to extend your experience with a horseback ride across the surrounding steppes. This is the perfect opportunity to explore the lake's shores at your own pace and immerse yourself in the vast landscapes. Whether you choose to relax at the campsite or engage in active exploration, you'll experience an authentic immersion in the local culture.

After relaxing by the lake and admiring the magnificent scenery, we set off for the village of Kyzyl-Oi. Nestled at an altitude of 1800 meters, this hamlet takes its name from the surrounding reddish-hued mountains. The track leading there is sometimes bumpy, but it gradually reveals a completely different landscape.

In the afternoon, a walk in the surrounding area to appreciate the peaceful atmosphere of the place.

You begin the final leg of your journey to the capital. Leaving behind the verdant mountains and the warm welcome of the shepherds, you return to the vibrant energy of Bishkek. After settling into your hotel for some rest, you set off to explore the Osh Bazaar, one of Central Asia's most iconic markets. Among the colorful stalls overflowing with spices, dried fruits, and handicrafts, you'll be immersed in a unique atmosphere, perfect for finding those last traditional souvenirs.

At the end of the day, you'll enjoy a stroll through Ala-Too Square, the vibrant heart of the city. This historically significant place, the scene of the country's major revolutions, is now a favorite meeting point for local youth and families. You'll mingle with the crowds of people strolling around, soaking up the lively atmosphere of the capital before the end of your Kyrgyz adventure.

Breakfast at the hotel. We will then take you back to Bishkek International Airport. The return transfer can be arranged at your preferred time, depending on your flight schedule.