Hiking and horseback riding in Kyrgyzstan

This day marks the beginning of your three-day self-supported horseback riding adventure in the heart of Chon Kemin National Park. You'll set off at a gallop across fields, then enter the impressive Toru-Aygyr Gorge. As you ride, you'll traverse a beautiful fir forest, dotted with streams. The terrain will gradually become steeper as you gain altitude towards the pass. It's important to note that throughout this ride, your supplies and personal belongings will be carried by pack horses. You'll then cross the pass, where a spectacular panoramic view of the snow-capped peaks of Ala Too awaits. After lunch, you'll continue your trek towards the glacial lake of Kol-tor, nestled at an altitude of 3,000 meters. It's on the shores of this small mountain lake that you'll set up camp for the night.

You'll get back in the saddle this morning and head towards Jeltyibes, crossing the Kol-Tor Pass ($2200). The route includes a river crossing, and you might have the chance to meet local shepherds who settle in these high-altitude pastures during the summer. Along the way, a stunning viewpoint will open up overlooking the magnificent Lake Issyk-Kul. Upon arrival in Jeltyibes, you'll say goodbye to the team who accompanied you on these three days of riding. A vehicle will then pick you up and transfer you to the village of Tamchy. There, you can rest and enjoy the rest of the day relaxing and refreshing yourself in the waters of Lake Issyk-Kul.

Today you will take the main road towards the village of Kochkor. This village is particularly renowned for its local development initiatives and the preservation of traditional crafts. You will visit the women's cooperative, where you can observe the making of the famous felt rugs, called shirdaks. This ancestral craft is a vital element of Kyrgyz culture. In the evening, a wonderful experience awaits you: you will attend a traditional folk performance. The program includes a storyteller from Manas, recounting tales of legendary Kyrgyz heroes, accompanied by traditional music and songs.

Early this morning, you will be transferred to the small village of Isakaev, the starting point of your trek. Greeted by your local guide, who will assist you during these two days of self-supported walking, you will load your supplies onto packhorses before setting off on the trail. Your route will take you through fields and streams, gradually climbing in altitude. The landscapes will change, the vegetation becoming less dense, revealing vast high-altitude pastures, called jailoos , where you will observe herds grazing. The last hour of the trek will be more demanding with the ascent to the 3,000-meter pass that is your destination. Finally, the waters of Lake Kol Ukok will come into view, offering a striking contrast between the turquoise blue of the lake and the verdant colors of the valley. You will spend the night in a yurt at your host's home.

For those who wish, the day begins very early with an optional hike to another lake, Kol Tor , this time located at an altitude of 3,500 meters. This approximately 3-hour round trip initially follows the river before reaching a scree slope. The terrain becomes steeper and the grass higher, requiring caution, especially if the ground is slippery after rain. After about 1.5 hours of walking and crossing the pass, this magnificent little mountain lake will come into view. Once this option is complete, or if you have chosen to stay, you will begin the descent back to the starting point of the hike. The path is easier and faster. Upon arriving at the small village, you will be transferred to your guesthouse in Kochkor for a well-deserved rest, where the evening will be free.

Today, the itinerary takes you to Lake Son-Kul, often considered Kyrgyzstan's second natural wonder. This immense alpine lake, situated at an altitude of 3,016 meters in the heart of the Tian Shan Mountains, is the country's largest freshwater reserve. Son-Kul has long captivated the imagination of travelers. You will be amazed by the purity of its crystal-clear water, whose color constantly changes with the weather, shifting from intense blue to emerald green, and sometimes even orange. You will settle on its vast shores to enjoy this exceptional setting.

You can use this day to relax and discover the lifestyle of the family you are staying with. Witness the creation of the Koumis, the herding of the livestock, or even the milking of the cows.

We set off after lunch for a short horseback ride.

During the day we will have the chance to witness the preparation of a traditional dish, an opportunity to get involved and discover new flavors.

For this last day before returning to the capital, you'll begin with a visit to Konorchek Canyon. This pristine place is breathtaking: the scarlet rock formations rising all around you are reminiscent of the American Grand Canyon. The red sand columns create an intimate yet commanding atmosphere. You'll then hit the road again, leaving the verdant mountains where you discovered a warm and welcoming people with enduring traditions. Upon arrival in Bishkek, you'll check into your hotel for a short rest. In the afternoon, you'll visit Osh Bazaar, the most vibrant market in the country, where stalls overflow with the colors of Central Asia, selling dried fruits and spices. Finally, you'll end your day with a stroll through Ala-Too Square, the heart of Bishkek, a meeting place for Kyrgyz youth and the scene of key moments in the country's history.

Breakfast at the hotel. The return transfer can take place at your preferred time, depending on your flight schedule.