- Stay in a traditional yurt at the stunning Altyn-Arashan gorge.
- Discover the south shore of Ysyk-Kol Lake, with Fairy-tale canyons, the Barskoon Waterfall and the striking Jety-Oguz Valley.
- Take a thrilling ride on a Soviet UAZ truck through the breathtaking Altyn-Arashan gorge for an unforgettable adventure.
- Enjoy traditional Dungan Muslim Chinese cuisine and a classic Russian lunch prepared by renowned alpinist Lubov Danichkina.
Day 1. Visit Ysyk-Kol Lake
• Today you’ll visit Ysyk-Kol Lake, the “pearl of Central Asia.” Along the way, you’ll have the opportunity to visit the historic Burana Tower, exploring its ancient minaret and learning about the region’s fascinating history.
• You’ll then continue to Iskra Village for a traditional lunch with a local Dungan family, where you’ll enjoy the famous Central Asian dish, Lagman. Following lunch, you’ll visit the Kok-Moinok Canyons, where you can enjoy an easy walk and take in the stunning scenery.
• After exploring the canyons, you’ll continue east along the southern shore of Ysyk-Kol lake, enjoying panoramic views of the water and the mountains across the way. Finally, you’ll arrive at Bokonbaev Village for an overnight stay at a guesthouse, where you can rest and enjoy dinner.
Transfer:
Total: 280 km – 4-5 h.
Asphalt: 270 km
Dirt road: 10 km
Meals:
lunch at guesthouse,
dinner at guesthouse,
Overnight: guesthouse
WC: Shared/Private
Internet: Wi-Fi
Shower: Available
NOTES & RECOMMENDATIONS
Day 2. Explore the south shore of Ysyk-Kol Lake
• Start your day with a fascinating eagle hunting demonstration by a local Kyrgyz eagle hunter, experiencing this unique tradition firsthand. Afterward, drive to the stunning Fairy-Tale Canyons to explore their dramatic rock formations and colorful landscapes.
• Next, stop in Tamga Village for lunch at the home of the famous Soviet-era mountaineer Lyubov Danichkina. After lunch, continue to the impressive Barskoon Waterfalls before heading to the picturesque Jety-Oguz Valley, known for its striking red rock formations.
• In the evening, arrive in Karakol. If time allows, take a short city tour to explore its charming streets and local sights before enjoying dinner at restaurant.
Transfer:
Total: 150 km – 3-4 h.
Asphalt: 120 km
Dirt road: 30 km
Meals:
Breakfast at guesthouse,
lunch at guesthouse,
dinner at restaurant
Overnight: hotel
WC: Private
Internet: Wi-Fi
Shower: Available
NOTES & RECOMMENDATIONS
– The eagle hunting experience is a demonstration with explanations and staged hunting on animal skins. Real hunting on horseback is only available in winter.
– The eagle hunting demonstration is optional – if you prefer, you can skip it.
Day 3. Off-road trip to Altyn-Arashan gorge
. Embark on an unforgettable off-road journey in a rugged Soviet UAZ truck as you head toward the breathtaking Altyn-Arashan Gorge. Your adventure begins along a bumpy, scenic road that follows a sparkling river and winds through dense pine forests, immersing you in the natural beauty of the Kyrgyz mountains.
• Upon arrival, enjoy a hearty lunch at a cozy guesthouse surrounded by alpine scenery. Spend the afternoon relaxing in the natural hot springs, known for their soothing properties, or choose an optional horse ride through the valley. You can also simply unwind and admire the majestic Peak Palatka rising in the distance at 5,200 meters.
• The day ends with a traditional dinner and an overnight stay at the yurt, offering an authentic and peaceful Kyrgyz experience.
Transfer:
Total: 30 km – 2-3 h.
Asphalt: 18 km
Dirt road: 12 km
Meals:
Breakfast at hotel,
lunch at guesthouse,
dinner at guesthouse
Overnight: yurt
WC: Shared WC
Internet: Wi-Fi for payment
Shower: On request
NOTES & RECOMMENDATIONS
– Instead of driving in a UAZ, you can also trek or ride a horse to Altyn-Arashan for a more active adventure.
Day 4. Return back to Bishkek
• Wake up in Altyn-Arashan to a stunning mountain view and enjoy the morning at your leisure. Then, begin your return journey in a UAZ back to Karakol.
• Upon reaching Karakol, you’ll go for a lunch at restaurant in the town, giving you a final taste of local cuisine. Afterward, continue the journey along the northern shore of Ysyk-Kol Lake, taking in the sparkling waters and mountain vistas that line this famous “Pearl of Central Asia.”
• Arriving in Bishkek in the evening, this marks the conclusion of your Kyrgyzstan adventure, filled with horseback riding, off-road driving, hidden lakes, and the warmth of nomadic hospitality.
Transfer:
Total: 440 km – 6-7 h.
Asphalt: 428 km
Dirt road: 12 km
Meals:
Breakfast at hotel,
lunch at restaurant
NOTES & RECOMMENDATIONS
– The drive back to Bishkek is long but on asphalt roads, so please make sure to depart from Altyn-Arashan early.
– You’ll arrive back in Bishkek at around 8–9 PM.
