In the heart of the Kyrgyzstan steppes

You leave the Kyrgyz capital and board a domestic flight to Osh.

Visit the sacred mountain of Sulaiman-Too, known as Solomon's Throne. This pilgrimage site holds great importance for local Muslims and remains associated with the biblical figure of Solomon. A UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2009, it reflects the spiritual history of the region.

You then continue with a visit to the History Museum, located nearby.

In the morning, you'll visit the Osh Bazaar, considered one of the most vibrant markets in Kyrgyzstan. Stalls overflowing with dried fruits and spices will fill your space as you stroll through the market, immersing you in the colors and aromas of Central Asia. You'll also find a wide selection of traditional souvenirs.

You take the road towards Jalal-Abad, the third largest city in the country. On the way, you stop at the historical site of Uzgen, where there are three mausoleums and a minaret dating from the 11th century.

During the day, you arrive in the small village of Arslanbob, where you spend the night. This village, located at an altitude of 1,600 meters, lies at the foot of a vast walnut grove that stretches over 60,000 hectares. The area offers an ideal setting for hiking and walks in nature.

Today, you'll embark on a hike through a walnut forest, which will lead you to the waterfalls. You'll enjoy lunch in the heart of this peaceful natural setting.

You continue along the winding road towards Lake Sary-Chelek. The journey crosses a varied mountainous landscape, marked by contrasting terrain. You have lunch along the way.

This morning, you set off on a hike to discover this alpine lake nestled at an altitude of 1,837 m.

The freshwater lake of Sary-Chelek is located 500 km from Bishkek and 300 km from Osh. This natural environment offers an ideal setting for walking, observing the scenery, and taking a break from everyday life.

A bit of history

The lake was formed approximately ten thousand years ago following a landslide. In 1959, the area was the subject of scientific studies aimed at protecting the flora and fauna. A legend tells of a beekeeper who spilled a bucket of honey into the lake, giving it a golden hue and the nickname Sary-Chelek, "yellow bucket." Other traditions attribute the lake's color to the surrounding trees, which turn orange-yellow in the autumn.

The lake stretches for 7.5 km, with a width ranging from 150 to 350 m. Its maximum depth reaches 234 m. Access is from the north or south: to the north, a route crosses the Talas Mountains and their canyons; to the south, a path leads to the site from the village of Arkyt, located 20 km away. Sary-Chelek boasts remarkable biodiversity: over 1,000 plant species, 160 bird species, and 34 mammal species, including deer, bears, lynx, and wolves. Hiking trails around the lake are available.

The road leads to Toktogul, an artificial lake of 284 km². The route reveals a contrast of colors and rock formations. You pass through the mining landscapes of Tashkomur, then the Lower Naryn Gorge with its red sandstone walls, before reaching the Toktogul reservoir.

After settling into your guesthouse, you can stroll around the village or enjoy a relaxing moment on the beach of the artificial lake.

Arriving in the Soussamyr Valley, which reveals landscapes emblematic of Kyrgyzstan, between high-altitude meadows and open horizons.

You continue your journey towards Kyzyl Oi , literally "Red Bowl". This village, located at an altitude of 1,800 m, owes its name to the surrounding red-hued mountains. The road, sometimes bumpy, gradually leads you towards a different landscape, marked by steep reliefs and deep valleys.

Arriving at the shores of Lake Son-Kul, considered the second wonder of Kyrgyzstan. This immense alpine lake is the country's main freshwater reserve. Located in the heart of the Celestial Mountains, it sits at an altitude of 3,016 meters and has captured the imagination of many travelers. Its crystal-clear water varies with the light and weather, shifting from blue to green, sometimes with orange highlights.

You take advantage of this day to relax and observe the lifestyle of the family hosting you. You witness the preparation of dairy products, the gathering of herds, or even the milking of cows.

Set off after lunch for a short horseback ride.

Day 11

You find your vehicle and take a Kyrgyz track. You cross the Teskeï-Torpok pass, nicknamed the 33 parrots (3,133 m), then cross the landscapes of the Korgo valley before joining the main road towards Naryn .

Arrival in the town of Naryn, a small town nestled between mountains and bisected by the Naryn River. You will have lunch there before continuing your adventure in Kyrgyzstan.

Take a journey back in time with a visit to the ancient caravanserai of Tash Rabat . Located on the old road to Kashgar, this caravanserai—known as the Stone Hotel —is among the best-preserved sites on the Silk Road . Its atmosphere allows you to imagine the passage of merchants and caravans. Dating from the 15th century, the building housed numerous rooms for travelers to rest in.

Day 12

Today, your excursion takes you to the Tash Rabat pass, from where you can enjoy a beautiful view of Lake Chatyr-Kul , whose name means "heavenly lake" in Kyrgyz. Located between the ridges of At-Bashy and Torugart-Too, it lies at an altitude of 3,950 m.

The third largest lake in the country, Chatyr-Kul is distinguished by its size and the clarity of its waters, offering a peaceful landscape to contemplate.

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 (shyrdaks) are made using a know-how passed down from generation to generation.

In the evening, you will attend a Kyrgyz folk show. On the program: stories of the Manas — the legendary heroes of the country — accompanied by traditional music and songs.

Arrival at the village of Kyzyl-Tuu, renowned for the traditional construction of Kyrgyz yurts. A family from the village will do us the honor of showing us how a yurt is built, and if you wish, you can help them with this activity.

Upon arrival at your hosts' home in Bokonbayevo, you will witness a falconry demonstration. The Kyrgyz eagle-catcher, on horseback, will demonstrate the bond he shares with his eagle and show his hunting technique on small prey such as rabbits.

A visit to the Skaska Canyon, whose name means "fairy tale" in Kyrgyz. Its multicolored rock formations overlook Lake Issyk-Kul. The result of ancient volcanic activity, these varied structures evoke landscapes worthy of a fairy tale.

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

Hiking in the valley.

Arrival in Karakol, a peaceful little town near Lake Issyk-Kul. You'll have time to visit the Holy Trinity Cathedral, a 19th-century Orthodox church, as well as the Chinese Mosque, whose architecture is reminiscent of Mongolian Buddhist temples and was built by Dungan artisans. You'll conclude your exploration with a visit to the Przewalsky Museum, dedicated to local history.

Hike to the Altyn Arachan Golden Spa, located at an altitude of 3,000 meters. Follow the trail along the Arashan River, gradually ascending to higher elevations. At the summit, a panoramic view opens up to the snow-capped peaks of Mount Palakta. Vehicle support is available to facilitate access if needed.

After this climb, you can enjoy a relaxing moment in the hot springs of Altyn-Archan, renowned for their beneficial properties.

For dinner, you are received by your Dungan family, who prepare a traditional meal and share with you the history of this Muslim people originating from Western China, who have been settled in the region for over 140 years.

You travel to the Ak- Suu gorge, located about fifteen kilometers east of Karakol. You then enjoy a bath in the Ak-Suu hot springs .

Upon arrival in Grigorievka , you will settle into the camp. You have the option of taking a small mountain track that goes up the Chong Ak-Suu valley for about 40 minutes, alongside the "great white river", a powerful torrent that crosses the valley.

For those who wish, it is possible to practice kayaking at the camp ( optional activity ).

A little adventure before concluding this Kyrgyz loop. This afternoon, you'll spend a few hours rafting down the Chuy River on an accessible route. You'll enjoy a beautiful panorama in the heart of the Chon Kemin Gorge.

You arrive in the verdant Chon Kemin Valley, a nature reserve that encompasses diverse landscapes, including semi-desert areas, glaciers, and gorges. Take the opportunity to explore the surroundings and appreciate the tranquility of the site.

The final day of travel before reaching the Kyrgyz capital. You leave the verdant mountains of Kyrgyzstan, having shared moments with a people deeply attached to their 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.