Nomadic Trails of Kyrgyzstan
Itinerary: Bishkek – Song Kol – Bokonbaevo – Karakol – Altyn Arashan – Chon Kemin – Bishkek
Join this 6-day trip through Kyrgyzstan, where you’ll explore the country’s beautiful nature and rich culture. Visit the Burana Tower and Song Kol Lake, experience life with local shepherds, and watch a traditional eagle hunting demonstration in Bokonbaevo. Discover unique landscapes at Fairytale Canyon and Barskoon Waterfall, and enjoy the hot springs in Altyn Arashan. End your journey with a scenic drive through the Chon Kemin Valley.
Why This Trip is Unique
- Explore Song-Kol and Issyk-Kol Lakes
- Visit top sights around Issyk-Kol
- Experience traditional eagle hunting
- Stay in a yurt at Song-Kol Lake
- Relax in Altyn Arashan’s hot springs
- Stunning mountain views
- Visit Fairytale Canyon and Djeti Oguz
- Discover Kyrgyz history and culture
Requirements: waterproof warm clothes, sunscreen, hat and sunglasses
Day 1. Bishkek – Burana – Song Kol
Drive 302 km | 5 hours
Depart early from Bishkek and drive to Burana Tower to explore its historical ruins and minaret, a key Silk Road landmark. Afterward, continue your journey through the scenic Kalmak-Ashuu Pass, where you’ll enjoy sweeping views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Arriving at Song-Kol Lake, settle into a yurt camp by the lakeside. Spend the afternoon exploring the area, interacting with local nomadic shepherds, and experiencing their way of life. After a traditional Kyrgyz dinner, relax under the stars and enjoy an overnight stay in the yurt, fully immersed in the tranquility of the high-altitude lake
Accommodation: Yurt
Day 2. Song Kol – Bokonbaevo
Drive 230 km | 4 hours
Start your day by leaving Song-Kol Lake in the morning, taking in the serene beauty of the high-altitude landscape. Enjoy a peaceful walk along the lake’s shores or take in the panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. After lunch, drive to Bokonbaevo, a town by Issyk-Kul Lake. In the evening, attend an eagle hunting demonstration, where skilled falconers will showcase the ancient Kyrgyz tradition of hunting with golden eagles. After this captivating experience, enjoy a delicious Kyrgyz dinner before resting for the night
Accommodation: Guesthouse
Day 3. Bokonbaevo – Fairytale canyon – Barskon -Jeti Oguz – Karakol
Drive 180 km | 4 hours
Begin your day in Bokonbaevo and head to Fairytale Canyon, a mesmerizing place with vibrant red and orange sandstone formations resembling figures and animals. Explore the winding paths and enjoy the surreal beauty of the landscape. From there, travel to Barskoon, where you can hike to the Barskoon Waterfall and marvel at the natural beauty of the area. Next, visit Djeti Oguz, famous for the Seven Bulls rock formation. The valley offers a serene setting perfect for a short hike or a peaceful moment by the river. Finally, arrive in Karakol, where you can explore the Russian Orthodox Church. End the day with a traditional Kyrgyz dinner, tasting local delicacies like beshbarmak
Accommodation: Hotel
Day 4. Karakol-Altyn Arashan
Drive 60 km | 2 hours
Start your adventure with a morning departure from Karakol. After meeting your guide head out towards Altyn Arashan. Travel by 4×4 vehicle for the entire journey to reach the valley. The scenery along the way is stunning, with views of the rugged mountain terrain. Upon arrival in Altyn Arashan, check into your guesthouse or yurt camp, nestled in the picturesque valley. After settling in, relax and enjoy the natural hot springs that this area is famous for, known for their mineral-rich, therapeutic waters.For lunch, savor traditional Kyrgyz dishes such as lagman, shashlik, and fresh salads. Afterward, enjoy some leisure time—either soaking in the hot springs or exploring the immediate surroundings. As the evening sets in, enjoy a hearty dinner. Spend the rest of the evening stargazing or relaxing around the warmth of a bonfire or the guesthouse.
Accommodation: Guesthouse
Day 5. Altyn Arashan – Chon Kemin
Drive 330 km | 6 hours
After breakfast at Altyn Arashan, you’ll begin your journey to Chon Kemin by 4×4 vehicle. The drive takes around 2-3 hours, passing through stunning mountain ranges and river valleys, offering incredible scenic views along the way.
You’ll stop for a packed lunch or enjoy a meal at a local restaurant. Upon arrival in Chon Kemin, check into your guesthouse. In the afternoon, explore the area by taking a leisurely walk along the village , visit Chon Kemin National Park, or enjoy optional activities like horseback riding or a short hike. In the evening, savor a dinner at your accommodation.
Accommodation:Guesthouse
Day 6. Chon Kemin – Bishkek
150 km | 2-3 hours
After breakfast at Chon Kemin, depart for Bishkek, the capital city of Kyrgyzstan. The drive takes approximately 2 to 3 hours (about 80-100 kilometers) by 4×4 vehicle, passing through scenic landscapes and small villages. Upon arrival in Bishkek, you can take a short tour of the city, visiting notable landmarks such as Ala-Too Square, Oak Park, and the State History Museum. Enjoy some free time for shopping or a leisurely stroll in the city. The tour concludes with dinner at a local restaurant, followed by check-in at your hotel for the night.
Accommodation: Hotel
