7 day | Wildlife Tour with Rangers in Kyrgyzstan

Embark on an early morning departure from Bishkek, traveling along the northern shores of Issyk-Kul Lake. Marvel at stunning views of the lake nestled between the towering peaks of the Kungey Ala-Too mountains. Stop at Boom Gorge for dramatic landscapes and striking canyon photos. Then, venture to Grigorievka and Semenovka Gorges, where lush alpine meadows and the sight of grazing livestock in traditional yurts offer a glimpse into Kyrgyz life. Arrive in Karakol, a city steeped in history and Russian influence, and enjoy a heartwarming home-cooked meal with a local Dungan family. Delight in traditional Dungan dishes like dumplings, savory stir-fried vegetables, and fried pastries. Overnight at a cozy Karakol guesthouse.

After breakfast in Karakol, head towards Turgen Gorge, passing stunning landscapes framed by the Tien Shan Mountains. Along the way, visit old Soviet meteorological stations and stop for photos of alpine vistas. Continue over the Chon-Ashuu Pass (3822 m) for panoramic mountain views. Relax in the natural hot springs near Enilchek Village, renowned for their healing properties. Explore Enilchek Village (2500 m), a Soviet-era settlement now home to only 30 families. Discover hidden petroglyphs at a peaceful site before reaching Kaindy Gorge (2600 m) for an overnight stay at the ranger station. Enjoy the tranquility of the surrounding wilderness under the stars.

After breakfast, begin your journey along the picturesque Enilchek River at Enilchek gorge (2700m), heading towards the serene At-Jailoo mountains (3100m). This area is known for its untouched natural beauty, with the river carving its way through dramatic mountain landscapes. Upon arrival at an old ranger house, enjoy a lunch picnic in the tranquil surroundings before embarking on an afternoon horseback riding adventure. During the day, you’ll also have the opportunity to set up photo traps to capture wildlife in its natural habitat.

The horseback riding offers two routes to choose from, tailored to different skill levels:

1. For beginners, the easy route follows flat terrain along the Enilchek River, allowing you to enjoy the stunning scenery at a relaxed pace. The ride is flexible, with an average duration of 1 to 1.5 hours one way, making it perfect for those seeking a gentle introduction to horseback riding.
2. For more experienced riders, the medium-difficulty route provides a more challenging experience. This trail crosses the river multiple times and includes steep ascents and descents as you climb towards At-Jailoo Mountain. The ride lasts approximately 1.5 to 2 hours one way, depending on your pace, readiness, and weather conditions, offering a rewarding adventure for those seeking a more dynamic ride.

Return to the ranger station in the late afternoon, where you’ll have a traditional Kyrgyz dinner. Overnight at the ranger house in Enilchek gorge (2700m).

After breakfast, head from Enilchek Gorge to Sary-Jaz Valley, covering 100 km. The first 70 km are paved, while the rest is rough terrain. Entering the Sary-Jaz region requires special permits due to its location in a restricted border zone. The valley stretches 140 km, with the Sary-Jaz River running 198 km through Kyrgyzstan. The river’s striking greenish-white waters contrast with the surrounding jagged peaks and alpine meadows. Reach Turuk Pass (3625 m), where you can see Khan-Tengri Peak (6995 m) – though visibility is not guaranteed due to weather conditions. Continue through Chaar-Kuduk Gorge (2600 m), a peaceful spot with pine-lined riverbanks. Arrive in Karakol for a traditional Kyrgyz dinner and an overnight stay at a guesthouse.

After breakfast, start your day with a visit to two of Karakol’s most iconic landmarks. The Dungan Mosque, built in 1910, is a stunning example of Chinese-style architecture, with its intricate woodwork and vibrant colors. It was constructed by the Dungan people, an ethnic group of Chinese Muslim origin who settled in the region in the 19th century. The mosque is unique because it was built without a single nail, using traditional Chinese architectural techniques. Next, explore the Trinity Orthodox Church, built in 1895 by Russian settlers. This wooden church, with its traditional Russian design, stands as a reminder of the region’s historical ties to the Russian Empire. It has been beautifully preserved and continues to serve as a place of worship for the local community. If it’s Sunday, don’t miss the Karakol Animal Market, one of the largest livestock markets in Kyrgyzstan, located just outside the city. Here, locals trade horses, cattle, sheep, and goats in a lively atmosphere full of bargaining and energy, offering a unique window into the daily life of the Kyrgyz people. Further, exploring Jeti-Oguz Gorge, famous for its striking red rock formations, including the “Seven Bulls” and the “Broken Heart.” Continue to Barskoon Gorge, known for its picturesque waterfalls and the Yuri Gagarin Monument, commemorating the cosmonaut’s visit to this region. After lunch, visit Skazka Canyon, where the unique rock formations resemble fairy-tale creatures and castles. Overnight in a guesthouse. Meals include breakfast, lunch, and dinner. 

Today we dedicate our day to explore our cultural heritage: felt carpet show, traditional eagle hunting demonstration (Bürküt Show) and installation our Kyrgyz dwelling – Boz-Üi in Kyrgyz.

Return to Bishkek in 4.5-5 hours through passing picturesque Ak-Say canyons, where we will hike for 30-40 m minutes to enjoy the panoramic view our pearl of Kyrgyzstan - Issyk-Kul lake. Transfer to hotel.