Experience with Kyrgyz Vibes Kyrgyzstan
September
6 days
Easy
Private
Kyrgyzstan
Embark on a 12-day journey that captures the very soul of Kyrgyzstan, blending the thrilling spectacle of the World Nomad Games with the country’s most breathtaking natural wonders. This tour is a deep dive into nomadic culture, from witnessing ancient sports at their most prestigious event to living the pastoral life in a yurt – boz-üi. A major highlight is the unforgettable horseback trek over the Tüz Ashuu Pass to the stunning Song Kul Lake, where you will spend a night in a traditional yurt camp with nomadic shepherds. The expedition continues to the remote and dramatic landscapes of Naryn, where you’ll ride to Kel-Suu lake, nestled near the Chinese border.
Airport Pickup: Begin your journey with a warm welcome as you arrive at the airport. Attend VI World Nomad Game opening ceremony at the Bishkek Arena. If you have time before ceremony, we can arrange a city tour in Bishkek. Transfer to hotel.
Accommodation: not included. | Meals: no.
After breakfast, we drive to Cholpon-Ata on the shore of the stunning Issyk-Kul Lake, the host city for the 2026 World Nomad Games. Upon arrival, dive into the festival atmosphere! The games are spread across four unique venues: the hippodrome for horse games, a sports center for indoor events, a beach area for wrestling, and the spectacular yurt village in Kyrchyn Gorge.
Accommodation: guesthouse | Meals: Breakfast.
Spend two full days immersed in the excitement of the World Nomad Games. We will take you to see events at all the different venues. Witness incredible displays of nomadic skill and strength, from traditional wrestling ("Alysh") and eagle hunting to the thrilling and iconic "Kok-Boru" (equestrian polo with a goat carcass).
Accommodation: 3 guesthouse | Meals: Breakfasts.
Arrive in Karakol, a city steeped in history and Russian influence, and enjoy the most popular dish - ash-lyamfu - a Dungan (Muslim Chinese) dish in a local cafe as a lunch. Next drive to Jyrgalan village, the distance of it is 1-1.5 hours to get there. We will hike to a small lake called Turnaluu Kol.
Hiking to Turnaluu Kol Lake
Distance: 13.3 km
Max. Elevation: 2,862 m
Min. Elevation: 2,205 m
Difficulty: Easy
Duration: 1.5-2 hrs one way
Accommodation: guesthouse | Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner.
Start the day by exploring Jeti-Oguz Gorge, famous for its striking red rock formations, including the “Seven Bulls” and the “Broken Heart.” Hiking in Jeti Oguz, famous for its red sandstone cliffs and panoramic views and keep hiking to Girls’ Braids waterfall (1,5-2 h of hiking one way).
Overnight: small cottages, twin rooms with private bathroom
Accommodation: a cottage | Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner.
After early breakfast we will drive to see Ak-Say canyons with the panoramic view of Issyk-Kul lake. Further, you will be transferred to Kyzart village
Accommodation: a guesthouse | Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner.
Day of hiking to the Tuz Achuu pasture. Transfer by vehicle to the starting point (the bridge) where we will center the local team. Along the ride, we discover magnificent views of the pastures of Chaar Archa. Picnic lunch. We gain height and arrive at the Tuz Achuu pass (3400m). We continue towards Tuz Achuu, surrounded by towering mountains and begin to see Song Kul Lake. Arrival at the lake and descent to the pastures of Tuz Achuu (3080m), crossing on our way several herds of cattle with their shepherds. On our arrival, meeting with the family of shepherds who welcome us for dinner and the night. Lunch boxes for lunch.
Distance: 16 km / approx 4-5h
Positive elevation: + 1100 m.
Negative elevation: - 200 m
Night and dinner at the yurt camp
Accommodation: a yurt camp | Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner.
After breakfast, take your time to appreciate the vastness and breathtaking beauty of lake Song-Kol. This stunning alpine lake is surrounded by lush meadows and towering mountains, making it the perfect place for relaxation. You can go on a hike or enjoy a horseback riding excursion, where you'll ride along the shores of the lake. After lunch, we drive to Naryn city, passing through the scenic Moldo Ashuu pass (3,400m), offering stunning mountain views and which is one of the scenic passes in Kyrgyzstan. Upon arrival, enjoy a traditional dinner in Naryn.
Accommodation: a guesthouse | Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner.
Our adventure begins with a hike to one of the alpine lakes in Naryn province, Köl-Tör Lake, located about 2.5 to 3 hours from Naryn city. The hike is approximately 30 minutes one way. Along the way, we’ll cross beautiful pastures that are perfect for photos. Today, we’ll also get closer to the stunning Kel-Suu Lake, located in the southern part of Kyrgyzstan near the China border. After crossing the border zone, you’ll experience the true remoteness of Kyrgyzstan, surrounded by snow-capped mountains. Tomorrow, we’ll continue our journey to reach the lake.
Accommodation: a guesthouse | Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner.
After breakfast, we will embark on a scenic ride around the Kel-Suu area, taking in the breathtaking landscapes of snow-capped peaks, alpine meadows, and crystal-clear streams. The hike will lead you closer to the stunning Kel-Suu lake, offering a lot of opportunities for photos and to experience the natural beauty of this remote region.
Accommodation: a guesthouse | Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner.
Transfer to Bishkek.
Accommodation: not included | Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner.
End of the tour
INCLUDED:
What to bring:
Since the weather is changeable and unpredictable at high altitudes, please take warm clothes with you.
The banks and exchanges are super strict in exchanging the foreign currency in Kyrgyzstan. Recently, cases of counterfeit 10, 20, and 50 USD banknotes have increased. Because of this, banks and exchange offices no longer accept these denominations. It would be great if you provide with 100 banknotes usd more in Kyrgyzstan side. Additionally, euros are not accepted due to recent fluctuations in the exchange rate. For your convenience, we strongly recommend bringing 100 USD bills (new design and issued in 2013 and in good condition without even any tiny stamps, even tiny torns, any dark spots and old banknotes) for exchange during your trip. Please find the attached photos of samples of the US banknotes.
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