Issyk-Kul
Lake adventure tour 12 days
Tour description
Prepare to be captivated by the breathtaking beauty of Issyk-Kul Lake, a
jewel nestled in the heart of the Tian Shan Mountains. Join us on an
unforgettable adventure to explore its diverse landscapes, rich history, and
vibrant culture.
Issyk-Kul Lake is cradled within the majestic Tian
Shan Mountains, which stretch across Central Asia. These towering peaks, some
reaching over 7,000 meters, offer-stunning views and a sense of
awe-inspiring grandeur.
The lake itself is a remarkable sight, its
turquoise waters reflecting the surrounding peaks and creating a breathtaking
canvas of nature's artistry. Its crystal-clear waters are a testament to the
region's pristine beauty.
Itinerary
This well-paced itinerary offers a mix of cultural immersion, breathtaking natural landscapes, and adventurous exploration through Kyrgyzstan’s iconic locations.
Day 1: Arrival in Bishkek
Activities:
Arrive in Bishkek and transfer to your hotel.
Explore Ala-Too Square, Oak Park, and the State History Museum.
Visit Osh Bazaar for a taste of local culture.
Overnight: Bishkek.
Day 2: Bishkek to Chong Kemin
Distance: 150 km (2.5-3 hours)
Activities:
Depart for Chong Kemin, a picturesque valley.
Enjoy a leisurely hike through the valley’s lush greenery.
Visit a local Kyrgyz family and learn about nomadic traditions.
Optional: Horseback riding or a river rafting experience.
Overnight: Guesthouse in Chong Kemin.
Day 3: Chong Kemin to Jeti-Ögüz
Distance: 300 km (5-6 hours)
Activities:
Drive through Boom Gorge towards Issyk-Kul Lake.
Stop at the famous Jeti-Ögüz Gorge, known for its "Seven Bulls" rock formation.
Take a short hike to admire the red rock cliffs and stunning alpine scenery.
Overnight: Yurt camp in Jeti-Ögüz.
Day 4: Jeti-Ögüz to Karakol
Distance: 40 km (1 hour)
Activities:
Visit Karakol's highlights, including the Dungan Mosque and Holy Trinity Orthodox Cathedral.
Stroll through the vibrant local bazaar.
Option to hike or relax at the hot springs in Ak-Suu Valley.
Overnight: Karakol.
Day 5: Karakol to Alaköl
Activities:
Start an early trek towards Alaköl Lake, one of Kyrgyzstan’s most stunning alpine lakes.
Enjoy panoramic views of the rugged mountains and pristine waters.
Camp near the lake or return to Karakol after the trek.
Overnight: Camp or guesthouse in Karakol.
Day 6: Karakol to Kochkor
Distance: 250 km (5-6 hours)
Activities:
Drive along the southern shore of Issyk-Kul Lake.
Visit Fairytale Canyon (Skazka Canyon) for its colorful, surreal landscapes.
Arrive in Kochkor and visit local artisans constructing felt products.
Overnight: Guesthouse in Kochkor.
Day 7: Kochkor to Kazarman
Distance: 300 km (6-7 hours)
Activities:
Travel through scenic mountain passes towards Kazarman.
Stop at Song-Kul Lake en route, where nomads graze their livestock in summer.
Explore Kazarman village and interact with locals.
Overnight: Guesthouse in Kazarman.
Day 8: Kazarman to Arslanbob
Distance: 330 km (7-8 hours)
Activities:
Drive through the rugged Fergana Range towards the lush walnut forests of Arslanbob.
Explore the world’s largest natural walnut grove and nearby waterfalls.
Overnight: Guesthouse in Arslanbob.
Day 9: Arslanbob Exploration
Activities:
Hike through the walnut forests to enjoy stunning views of the valley.
Visit sacred caves and interact with local communities.
Relax and enjoy a home-cooked meal with a local family.
Overnight: Guesthouse in Arslanbob.
Day 10: Arslanbob to Bishkek (via Toktogul)
Distance: 570 km (9-10 hours)
Activities:
Begin the scenic drive back to Bishkek, passing by the beautiful Toktogul Reservoir.
Stop at panoramic viewpoints and take breaks to enjoy the scenery.
Overnight: Bishkek.
Day 11: Bishkek Free Day
Activities:
Relax in Bishkek or take a day trip to Ala-Archa National Park for a short hike.
Shop for souvenirs and handicrafts in the city’s markets.
Overnight: Bishkek.
Day 12: Departure from Bishkek
Activities:
Transfer to the airport for your flight.
Optional morning visit to the Dordoi Bazaar for last-minute shopping.
This itinerary balances adventure, culture, and relaxation, giving you a full experience of Kyrgyzstan’s stunning landscapes and warm hospitality.
Inclusion and Exclusion
Includes
· Transportation in a 4WD vehicle
(with a maximum of 3 passengers per vehicle)
· driver’s lodging and meal
· lodging and meals
· 2 liters of water per person per
day
· National Park permit
· All entrance fees
Excludes
· meals out of program
· alcoholic drinks
· personal expenses
· Food and sleeping accommodations in Bishkek.
· Travel insurance,
Visa and tips.
Prices
Package tour – all included:
2500$ for 1 pax
1800$ for 2 pax
1300$ for 3 pax
Meal
Sleeping accommodation
National Park permits
Transport
Driver’s accommodations
Only transport and driver’s service:
1600$ for 1 pax
100$ for 2 pax
700$ for 3 pax
500$ for 4 pax
Transport
Driver’s accommodations
Date
This itinerary includes a good
opportunity to see a wide range of natural, cultural, and historical sites in
Kyrgyzstan, and Pamir of Kyrgyzstan. We would be happy to guide you on this
itinerary or to customize it for you.
Many of our tours are customized based on the interests, fitness levels,
time availability, and budgets of our guests.
We want you to have the best
visit possible to the above-mentioned countries so please tell us about your
preferences so we can plan the best visit for you.
Anytime for combined tour: 2025 tour season.
May – June – July – August – September – October – November
For group tour: 2025 tour season.
Start 5 May – finish 15 May
Start 20 May – finish 1 June
Start 5 June – finish 17 June
Start 20 June – finish 3 July
Start 10 July – finish 22 July
Start 1 August – finish 13 August
Start 20 August – 2 September
Start 10 September – finish 23
September
Start 1 October – finish 13
October
Tour duration
12 days 11 nights
Route
Bishkek
- Chong Kemin - Jeti-Ögüz - Karakol - Alaköl - Kochkor - Kazarman - Arslanbob -
Bishkek
Things to bring with
Bring with you trekking equipment
including
·
Good hiking shoes
·
Camera for taking wildlife pictures.
·
Sunscreen with high SPF for skin and lips
·
Sun glasses
·
Sun hat
·
Warm jacket
·
Sticks (if you use them regularly)
·
Sleeping bag
·
Gloves
·
Reusable water bottle
·
Personal medical kit
·
Headlamp
·
Some extra batteries
for your camera
·
Rain gear, jacket and
pants
Group size
From 1 to 10 people