Hiking and nomadic traditions in the heart of Kyrgyzstan

This morning, you'll visit Konorchok Canyon, a pristine site where the red-hued rock formations evoke the landscapes of the Grand Canyon. The sand columns that rise around you create a striking atmosphere and give the place an intimate feel.

Arrival on the shores of Lake Issyk-Kul (1,609 m altitude), considered the second largest alpine lake in the world. A veritable inland sea, it is often called the pearl of Kyrgyzstan.

Surrounded by the chain of celestial mountains, its crystalline waters reflect the snow-capped peaks that rise above 5,000 m. From the neighboring mountains, numerous rivers descend and join the lake, crossing contrasting and harmonious valleys.

A visit to the Rouh-Ordo cultural center in Cholpon-Ata, a place that combines culture and serenity. In a peaceful setting, the complex is dedicated to the four major religions — Islam, Catholicism, Judaism and Buddhism — while also offering spaces dedicated to Greek philosophers and several prominent figures of Kyrgyzstan.

Arrival in Karakol, a small, peaceful town located near Lake Issyk-Kul. You take the time to visit the Holy Trinity Cathedral, a 19th-century Orthodox church, and then the Chinese mosque, whose architecture is reminiscent of Mongolian Buddhist temples and which was built by Dungan artisans.

For dinner, you are hosted by our Dungan family.

Arrival in the Jeti-Oguz Valley. Covered in dense vegetation, this gorge stretches for 37 km between Lake Issyk-Kul and the Celestial Mountains. Its red rock peaks, nicknamed "the Seven Bulls," form an iconic landscape that was featured on Soviet postage stamps in 1968.

Hiking in the valley.

A visit to Skazka Canyon, whose name means "fairy tale" in Kyrgyz. Its multicolored rock formations overlook Lake Issyk-Kul. The result of ancient volcanic activity, they create a landscape of varied shapes reminiscent of legendary scenery.

In the late afternoon, you settle in at your hosts' place in Bokonbayevo.

In Bokonbayevo, you can witness a falconry demonstration. The Kyrgyz eagle hunter, on horseback, demonstrates the bond he shares with his eagle and shows his hunting technique on small prey such as rabbits.

Next, you head towards the Ak-Sai canyons, nicknamed by the locals "valley of forgotten rivers".

Arrival at the village of Kyzyl-Tuu, renowned for the traditional construction of Kyrgyz yurts. A local family will show you how a yurt is built and, if you wish, you can participate in the various stages alongside the artisans.

You take the main road back towards the village of Kochkor, known for its local development initiatives. There you visit a women's cooperative where felt rugs (sherdaks) are made using a know-how passed down from generation to generation.

Day 5

Take a journey back in time with a visit to the ancient Tash Rabat Caravanserai. Located on the old road to Kashgar, this caravanserai—nicknamed the Stone Hotel —is among the best-preserved sites on the Silk Road. You can still feel its original atmosphere. Dating back to the 15th century, the building housed numerous rooms for the rest of merchants.

Day 6

Today, we will hike to the pass at 3950 m, from where we will have a view of Lake Chatyr-Kul , which means "heavenly lake" in Kyrgyz. The latter is located between the ridges of At-Bashy and Torugart-Too, at an altitude of 3530 m, hence its name.

Ranking as the third largest lake in the country, Chatyr-Kul impresses with its size and the clarity of its waters.

This morning, you'll set off towards Kel Suu Lake. The route is winding, you'll cross a wooden suspension bridge, and then enter the Kel Suu Valley. Crossing the river is only possible if weather conditions permit.

Assistance from a UAZ vehicle is planned if the passage becomes difficult.

As you approach the Chinese border, registration is required in order to continue the route.

Arrival at the campsite, where you will spend the night.

The next day you set off on a hike to the glacial lake Kel-Suu, located at an altitude of 3,500 m. This isolated place is well worth the effort and offers a unique setting, shaped by the surrounding mountains.

The lake has a special name: "Kel-Suu" means "the water that comes" in Kyrgyz. Sometimes its waters disappear and seep into underground caves; depending on the season and the year, the lake may therefore not be visible.

After breakfast, you resume your journey towards Naryn. The route is easier, including a small mountain pass. Along the way, you'll encounter shepherds and a few herds of yaks dotting the landscape.

Arrival in the town of Naryn, nestled between mountains and bisected by the Naryn River. Here you'll find greater comfort and enjoy a well-deserved break before continuing your adventure in Kyrgyzstan. Check into your hotel, relax, and then enjoy some free time with your guide, who will accompany you for a stroll through the town.

After breakfast, you leave Naryn for Eki-Naryn, the confluence of two branches of the Naryn River, the main tributary of the Syr Darya . Eki-Naryn is located in the heart of the mountains and offers a secluded setting, ideal for peacefully exploring the landscapes.

After settling into the yurt camp, you will set off to explore the surrounding area.

After lunch, you climb higher to admire the mountains and the surrounding valley. Along the way, you pass some shepherds setting up their camps for the summer season.

You leave the Eki-Naryn Valley and head towards Lake Son-Kul, considered the second wonder of Kyrgyzstan. This immense alpine lake, the country's main freshwater reserve, lies in the heart of the Celestial Mountains and sits at an altitude of 3,016 meters. It has long captured the imagination of travelers.

Its crystal-clear water varies depending on the light, changing from blue to green, sometimes with orange reflections.

You take advantage of this day to relax and observe the lifestyle of the family hosting you. Depending on the season, you may witness the preparation of koumiss or other dairy products, the rounding up of livestock, and the milking of cows or mares.

If you wish, you can go after lunch for a short horseback ride along the surrounding pastures.

After enjoying a relaxing moment by the lake and admiring the beauty of the landscape, you take the road towards the small village of Kyzyl-Oi.

You follow the Kokomeren River, which runs alongside the trail and offers a succession of contrasting landscapes. Upon arrival at the village, you set off for a walk to explore the surroundings and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of the place.

Your route today crosses vast steppes in the heart of the Celestial Mountains. You then continue through the Soussamir Valley, located at the confluence of the Karakol and Soussamir rivers.

Last day of travel before returning to the Kyrgyz capital. You leave the green mountains of Kyrgyzstan, where you discovered a warm and welcoming people with still very strong traditions, and arrive in Bishkek. Check into your hotel where you can relax for a while.

You're heading to the Osh Bazaar, considered one of the most vibrant markets in Kyrgyzstan. Stalls selling dried fruits and spices will fill your stroll amidst the colors and aromas of Central Asia. You'll also find plenty of traditional souvenirs.

A stroll through Ala-Too Square in the center of Bishkek. A favorite meeting place for Kyrgyz youth, it comes alive every evening with passersby. This square has also been the scene of several significant events in the country's history.

Breakfast at the hotel. You will then be transferred to Bishkek International Airport. The return transfer will be scheduled according to your flight time.