This 8-day adventure offers a perfect blend of horseback riding, trekking, and scenic drives through Kyrgyzstan’s stunning landscapes. Starting in Bishkek, you’ll journey to Kyzart, where your horseback riding experience begins, leading you to the serene Kilemche Valley and the tranquil Song Kul Lake. Enjoy the traditional Kyrgyz hospitality in yurts and immerse yourself in the high-altitude beauty of these regions. You’ll then explore the picturesque landscapes surrounding Issyk Kul Lake, including Fairytale Canyon and Jeti Oguz, before arriving in Karakol. The next phase takes you on a trek to the famous Ala-Kol Lake, where you’ll be captivated by the stunning alpine scenery. After a relaxing stay at Altyn-Arashan and a trek through the Altyn Arashan Gorge, you’ll continue your journey to Chon Kemin and conclude with a visit to the historical Burana Tower. Your adventure ends in Bishkek, where you’ll explore the city and enjoy a farewell dinner.
Please note:
3-days horse riding
3-days trekking
Why This Trip is Unique
Itinerary: Bishkek – Kilemche – Song Kol – Bokobaevo – Karakol – Altyn Arashan – Chon Kemin – Bishkek
Requirements: Trekking boots, warm, waterproof clothes, sunscreen, hat and sunglasses
Day 1. Bishkek – Kyzart – Kilemche
Drive 120 km | 3 hours
Horse riding | 4 hours
Your journey begins with a drive from Bishkek to Kyzart, where the scenic road takes you through lush valleys and distant mountain ranges. Once in Kyzart, you’ll meet your horses and start your horseback ride towards Kilemche Valley. The ride leads you through expansive meadows and rocky hills, offering wonderful views of the surrounding mountain landscapes. Upon arrival in Kilemche, settle into a traditional yurt, where you’ll experience Kyrgyz hospitality and enjoy a home-cooked dinner that introduces you to local flavors and traditions.
Accommodation: Yurt
Day 2. Kilemche Valley to Song Kul Lake
Horse riding | 5 hours
After a hearty breakfast, mount your horse again and head towards Song Kul Lake. Your ride takes you through the scenic Jalgyz Karagai Pass, where the panoramic views of the towering mountains are nothing short of breathtaking. Arriving at Song Kul, you’ll enjoy a delicious lunch in a traditional yurt, then spend some time relaxing by the lake or interacting with the local herders and their flocks. This tranquil, high-altitude area is a perfect place to unwind and experience the serene beauty of Kyrgyzstan. In the evening, you’ll settle into a yurt by the lake, where you’ll spend the night surrounded by nature.
Accommodation: Yurt
Day 3. Song Kul to Bokonbaevo
Drive 190 km | 3 hours
Horse riding | 4 hours
Begin your day with a peaceful ride around Song Kul Lake, soaking in the serene atmosphere and enjoying the stunning morning views of the lake and surrounding mountains. Afterward, set out on horseback to Kyzart village, where you’ll conclude your riding adventure. Upon arrival in Kyzart, enjoy a hearty lunch at a local guesthouse, offering a chance to rest and reflect on the journey so far. After lunch, continue your trip with a scenic drive towards Bokonbaevo. On the way, take in the breathtaking views of Issyk Kul Lake and the majestic Terskey Ala-Too mountains.
Upon reaching Bokonbaevo, you’ll settle into a cozy guesthouse and have time to relax or explore the village.
Accommodation: Guesthouse
Day 4. Bokonbaevo – Fairytale canyon – Barskon – Jeti Oguz – Karakol
Drive 170 km | 3-4 hours
Start 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 dinner in restaurant, tasting local food
Accommodation: Hotel
Day 5. Karakol – Altyn Arashan
Trekking 16 km | 5-6 hours
Elevation +600
Start your trek from Ak-Suu Village (1900 m) in the early morning, heading towards Altyn Arashan. Enjoy the scenic views of green meadows, dense forests, and mountain peaks as you hike up. After trekking approximately 16 km and gaining 600 meters in elevation, you’ll arrive at Altyn Arashan (2500 m) by late afternoon. Relax in the natural hot springs, take in the beautiful surroundings, and decide whether to stay in a local guesthouse or set up camp for the night
Accommodation: Guesthouse
Day 6. Altyn Arashan – Ala Kol – Altyn Arashan
Trekking 20 km | 6 hours
Start your day with a filling breakfast—it’s going to be an adventurous one! Today, we’re heading to one of the most breathtaking spots in the region: Ala-Kol Lake. We’ll get an early start, following a steady trail that takes us to a stunning viewpoint. From here, you’ll catch your first glimpse of Ala-Kol, a beautiful alpine lake nestled at 3,500 meters above sea level. Stretching 5 kilometers long and 500 meters wide, its vivid colors and tranquil setting make it a favorite among trekkers.From the viewpoint, the trail continues along a ridgeline before descending to the lakeshore. Here, we’ll stop for a well-deserved picnic prepared by your guide—an ideal moment to relax, enjoy the scenery, and snap some incredible photos. After soaking in the beauty of Ala-Kol, we’ll begin our journey back to Altyn-Arashan. As we make our way down, you’ll get one last look at the stunning lake and the nearby Takyr-Gol glacier. The descent into the Altyn-Arashan Gorge takes about two hours and offers impressive views of the towering Terskey Ala-Too peaks, some reaching over 5,000 meters. Finally, the trail levels out, and we’ll return to the peaceful valley of Altyn-Arashan, wrapping up an unforgettable day in the mountains.
Accommodation: Guesthouse
Day 7. Altyn Arashan – Chon Kemin
Trekking 16 km | 5-6 hours
Elevation loss -600
Drive 334 km | 6 hours
Begin your day with breakfast in Altyn-Arashan, enjoying the peaceful surroundings of the valley. Afterward, take a final walk around before heading back along the trail to Ak-Suu village. From there, you’ll drive to Karakol for a short rest before continuing your journey to Chong-Kemin. The drive takes you through stunning landscapes, with open plains and mountain vistas along the way. By evening, you’ll arrive at a cozy guesthouse in Chong-Kemin, where a local family will warmly welcome you with a cup of tea. Spend the remainder of the day as you wish—relax in your room or explore the peaceful surroundings of the gorge.
Accommodation: Guesthouse
Day 8. Chon Kemin-Bishkek
Drive 148 km | 3 hours
After breakfast at the guesthouse in Chong-Kemin, you’ll set off for Bishkek. On the way, visit the Burana Tower, an ancient 11th-century historical complex, where you’ll learn about its rich Silk Road history and enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding area.Upon arrival in Bishkek, explore the city’s main attractions: the iconic Ala-Too Square, the impressive Central Mosque, and the vibrant Osh Bazaar, where you can immerse yourself in the local culture and pick up unique souvenirs.
In the evening, enjoy a delicious farewell dinner at a traditional restaurant before checking into your hotel. This marks the perfect end to your unforgettable Kyrgyzstan adventure.
Accommodation: Hotel