Best of Kyrgyzstan: Discover Finest Lakes, Steppe Land & Historic Towns – 8 days (SR-05)

Upon your arrival, our guide and driver will be there to welcome you and provide transportation to your hotel. Your Kyrgyz adventure will commence with a visit to Ala Archa Natural Park, which is located 45 kilometers away. Here, you can embark on a picturesque hike alongside the river, immersing yourself in the breathtaking mountain landscapes. Following a delightful picnic in this natural setting, you will return to the city. Along the way, you'll make stops at the Baytik Baatyr mausoleum and explore prominent city attractions such as Ala Too Central Square, the State History Museum, Bishkek's own White House, Parliament House, the Lenin Statue, and witness the Changing of the Guard ceremony. (D)

On the second day of your journey, you'll have the opportunity to experience genuine local hospitality and meet the individuals who continue to uphold the traditional nomadic lifestyle. Your route will take you through the picturesque Boom gorge, where you'll pass by the scenic Orto Tokoi water reservoir. Afterward, you'll traverse the Kalmak Ashuu mountain pass, reaching an elevation of 3,445 meters, and then enjoy a delightful lunch with a welcoming Kyrgyz family. The day will culminate with dinner and an overnight stay in a traditional yurt camp, allowing you to immerse yourself in the authentic nomadic culture. The total driving distance for the day will be approximately 360 kilometers (225 miles). (B,L,D)

Today's adventure will take you on a car journey to Naryn, where you'll traverse the majestic Moldo Ashuu mountain pass, reaching a breathtaking elevation of 3,665 meters. Along the way, you'll be treated to awe-inspiring panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. You'll pause for a delightful lunch with a local family in Naryn town, savoring the flavors of Kyrgyz hospitality.

Afterward, your journey will continue to Tash Rabat, where you'll explore an ancient Caravanserai. This historical site, dating back to the 15th century, was once a vital inn for merchants and travelers along the Silk Road. It's renowned as one of the best-preserved Silk Road sites globally, offering a captivating glimpse into the past. The day's driving distance will span approximately 280 kilometers (175 miles). (B,L,D)

Your journey will take you to Naryn, a town renowned for its traditional felt-making and the production of 'shyrdak' felt rugs. While in Naryn, you'll have the opportunity to explore the local culture further by visiting the Central mosque, central square, and an art gallery. If you're interested in acquiring shyrdaks, Kyrgyzstan offers a wide variety, with many of them featuring motifs inspired by nature, such as animal horns and mountains.

Subsequently, your adventure will continue as you make your way to Kochkor village, crossing over the Dolon pass, which reaches an elevation of 3,030 meters. In Kochkor, you'll have the chance to visit a handicraft museum-shop, where you can appreciate and purchase exquisite handmade crafts. The day's driving distance will cover approximately 230 kilometers (143 miles). (B,L,D)

Today, you will embark on an excursion to the breathtaking Jety-Oguz gorge, a location of scenic beauty. Nestled in a picturesque canyon on the northern slope of the Terskey Ala-Too range, roughly 25 kilometers southwest of Karakol, this gorge boasts an elevation of 2,200 meters. Its unique red sand rock formations make for incredibly photogenic landscapes.

Two of the most iconic rock formations in the region, the Broken Heart and Seven Bulls, have come to symbolize the beauty of the Issyk Kul region and are reminiscent of picture postcard-perfect scenes. To enrich your experience, you'll enjoy a traditional dinner with a welcoming local family and spend the night in a guesthouse. The total driving distance for the day will be approximately 270 kilometers (168 miles). (B,L,D)

Karakol, the fourth-largest city in Kyrgyzstan, stands as a significant tourist hub. It draws adventurers and nature enthusiasts exploring the high central Tian Shan mountains to the south and east, offering opportunities for hiking, trekking, skiing, and mountaineering.

During your visit to Karakol, you will have the chance to explore its diverse cultural and historical sites. This includes the Dungan mosque, a Russian Orthodox cathedral, and the Przhevalskii museum. Additionally, you'll visit some Scythian burial mounds and view ancient petroglyphs, gaining insight into the region's rich history.

Lunch will be enjoyed in a local café, offering a taste of Kyrgyz cuisine. Later, you'll have dinner and spend the night in a hotel located by the lakeshore, with time to relax and visit the beautiful lakeside beach. The total driving distance for the day will be approximately 150 kilometers (93 miles). (B,L,D)

On this day, your journey will take you along the northern lakeshore towards Bishkek, the capital city of Kyrgyzstan. Along the way, you'll make a fascinating stop at the Burana archaeological and architectural site. Burana is the historical city of Balasagun, which served as the capital of the Karakhanids State during the 10th to 12th centuries. Today, visitors can explore the remnants of an ancient minaret and the ruins of three mausoleums, providing a glimpse into the city's rich history.

Interestingly, Balasagun was of such significance that Genghis Khan's Mongol Horde spared the city from destruction. You'll have the opportunity to savour a local lunch with a welcoming family, enjoying Kyrgyz hospitality.

As the day comes to a close, you'll spend the night in a hotel in Bishkek, the final destination of your journey. The total driving distance for the day will be approximately 280 kilometers (175 miles). (B,L,D)

After breakfast, it will be time for your departure. You will be transferred to the airport for your flight back home, concluding your memorable journey through Kyrgyzstan. (B)