Horseback riding adventure at the alpine lake of Son-Kul

Your day begins with a visit to the ruins of the Burana Minaret, a former mosque destroyed in the 13th century. You ascend to the top of the structure to admire a panoramic view of the surrounding countryside before exploring the collections of the adjacent museum. Afterwards, you continue your journey to the Chon Kemin Valley. This nature reserve is distinguished by its striking contrasts, blending semi-desert areas, gorges, and glacial peaks. Once settled in at your host's home, you have the option of going on a horseback ride to explore the valley's wild landscapes. You spend the night in the heart of this mountain village.

You reach the shores of Lake Issyk-Kul, situated at an altitude of 1609m. This veritable inland sea, nestled in the heart of the Tian Shan Mountains, boasts crystal-clear waters reflecting snow-capped peaks over 5000m high. In Cholpon-Ata, you visit the Ruh-Ordo Cultural Center, a peaceful place dedicated to the coexistence of religions and the history of Kyrgyz thinkers.

Continuing your journey eastward, a stop at the Przewalsky Museum offers a chance to delve deeper into the exploration of the region. Next, you arrive in Karakol, a city with diverse architectural influences. There, you'll discover the wooden Holy Trinity Cathedral and a striking Dungan mosque resembling a Buddhist temple. To conclude the day, a Dungan family welcomes you for dinner. This shared meal provides an opportunity to learn more about the history of this community, originally from China, who have been settled here for over a century.

You rejoin the circular route to reach the southern shore of Lake Issyk-Kul, a wilder, more pristine region. Your first stop takes you to the Jety-Oguz Valley, a verdant gorge stretching for 37 km. There, you can admire the famous red rock cliffs known as the Seven Bulls, an iconic panorama of the country. A hike of a few hours allows you to immerse yourself in this high mountain landscape.

Further on, you'll explore the Skazka Canyon, whose name means "fairy tale." This natural site reveals multicolored rock formations in surprising shapes, sculpted by erosion and ancient volcanic activity. From the ridges, you'll enjoy contrasting views of the ochre rocks and the deep blue of the lake. In the late afternoon, you'll reach the village of Bokonbayevo to settle in with your hosts and share a pleasant evening.

Your morning begins with an immersion in a thousand-year-old tradition: a falconry demonstration. A Kyrgyz eagle hunter on horseback will showcase his raptor's skills during a traditional hunting session. You then head towards the Ak-Sai canyons, nicknamed the "valleys of the forgotten rivers." As you climb higher into the hills, you'll be rewarded with a spectacular panorama of Lake Issyk-Kul and the surrounding peaks.

The journey continues to Kyzyl-Tuu, a village renowned for its handicrafts. A local family will share their expertise with you during a yurt-building workshop, where you can participate in assembling the wooden frame. Finally, you'll reach Kochkor, a hub of local development. There, you'll visit a women's cooperative specializing in the production of shirdaks, traditional felt rugs. In the evening, a folk performance will conclude this culturally rich day, featuring songs, instrumental music, and epic tales told by the storytellers of Manas.

In the morning, a transfer by vehicle takes you from Kochkor to the village of Kyzart, where your local team awaits you with the horses. You then embark on a 4- to 5-hour horseback trek across the high plateaus towards Lake Son-Kul. Your route traverses vast steppes, iconic landscapes of Central Asia. During this ascent, you'll discover the summer pastures where Kyrgyz shepherds set up their camps. You'll ride through a wild and pristine landscape, typical of nomadic life, before reaching the shores of this high-altitude lake nestled at over 3,000 meters.

We set off for another horseback riding trip around Lake Son Kul, which becomes an uninhabited place from the beginning of October when the herders come down with their families and livestock.

We will probably encounter some shepherds or fishermen along our way.

You'll embark on another day of horseback riding, lasting 4 to 5 hours, across the high plateaus towards the Kilemche pastures. Depending on the weather, your route will be adjusted to cross the most suitable mountain passes. After this equestrian immersion, you'll meet your driver in the village of Kyzart and say goodbye to your team of local guides. Keep your eyes peeled along the way: it's not uncommon to encounter herds of free-roaming camels. Once you arrive at your destination, you'll enjoy a well-deserved moment of relaxation in a montcho, the traditional Kyrgyz bath, ideal for soothing your muscles after those hours in the saddle.

You begin the final leg of your journey to Bishkek. Leaving behind the mountain landscapes and nomadic atmosphere, you return to the vibrant energy of the Kyrgyz capital. After settling into your hotel for a short rest, you immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere of the Osh Bazaar. This iconic market is brimming with local flavors, from stalls selling spices and dried fruits to traditional handicrafts.

Your exploration continues in Ala-Too Square, the city's vibrant heart and a witness to the country's major historical events. There, you'll observe local life before visiting the National History Museum. The museum offers a comprehensive overview of the country's identity: the first floor is dedicated to centuries-old culture and nomadic traditions, while the second recounts key moments from the Soviet era.

Breakfast at the hotel. We will take you back to the international airport. The return transfer can take place at your preferred time, depending on your flight schedule.