2-Day Tour: Horse Riding in Chon Kemin and Issyk-Kul Lake
This fully private 2-day tour takes you from a 1,000-year-old Silk Road tower to mountain horse riding in Chon Kemin Valley, dramatic canyon hikes, and the beautiful north shore of Issyk-Kul Lake. Join us and see Kyrgyzstan at its best.
Price from:
275 USD
/ per person
Category:
Cultural/Multi-Day
Season:
All year around
Duration:
/1 night
2 Days
Saddle up in the mountains. Relax by the lake.
This tour was designed for travellers who want to experience the real Kyrgyzstan without spending weeks on the road. In just two days, you will pass through three completely different landscapes — the green meadows of Chon Kemin Valley, the red rock walls of the Kok-Moynok Canyons, and the wide blue shores of Issyk-Kul Lake.
Chon Kemin is one of the most beautiful valleys in northern Kyrgyzstan. Tucked between forested ridges and snow-capped peaks, it sits just two hours from Bishkek yet feels like a different world. You spend the night here in a warm family-run guesthouse, waking up to mountain views and fresh air.
On day two, you visit Cholpon-Ata — an ancient town on the northern shore of Issyk-Kul that has been a place of human settlement for thousands of years. The petroglyphs here date back more than 3,000 years, and the Ruh Ordo cultural complex sits right on the water's edge with views that are hard to forget.
Your guide leads every moment of this trip. The tour is fully private and can be shaped around your group.
Chon Kemin is one of the most beautiful valleys in northern Kyrgyzstan. Tucked between forested ridges and snow-capped peaks, it sits just two hours from Bishkek yet feels like a different world. You spend the night here in a warm family-run guesthouse, waking up to mountain views and fresh air.
On day two, you visit Cholpon-Ata — an ancient town on the northern shore of Issyk-Kul that has been a place of human settlement for thousands of years. The petroglyphs here date back more than 3,000 years, and the Ruh Ordo cultural complex sits right on the water's edge with views that are hard to forget.
Your guide leads every moment of this trip. The tour is fully private and can be shaped around your group.
Highlights
Climb the 1,000-year-old Burana Tower — a legendary Silk Road minaret — and look out across the Tien-Shan Mountains from the top.
Ride horses through the open meadows of Chon Kemin Valley, one of the most peaceful and beautiful mountain valleys in northern Kyrgyzstan.
Relax in natural hot springs on the north shore of Issyk-Kul Lake and enjoy a boat ride across the waters of the world's second-largest alpine lake.
Discover ancient petroglyphs carved more than 3,000 years ago and explore the stunning Ruh Ordo cultural complex on the shores of Issyk-Kul.
Hike through the Kok-Moynok Canyons — wild red and orange rock formations carved by wind and water over millions of years.
Itinerary
(170 km | 4-5 hrs driving)
Day 1
Bishkek — Burana Tower — Kegety Gorge — Chon Kemin National Park
Your guide meets you at your hotel in Bishkek and you set off eastward, leaving the city behind for open степи and mountain views. The first stop is the historic Burana Tower — a Silk Road landmark dating back to the 9th–10th centuries. Walk among the ancient balbal stone figures as your guide brings the history of this site to life, then climb the tower for panoramic views stretching toward the Tien Shan mountains.
Continue to Kegety Gorge, a beautiful alpine valley known for its clear river, fresh mountain air, and forested slopes. A short walk takes you closer to the Kegety waterfall — a peaceful stop to stretch your legs, enjoy nature, and capture some of the best early photos of your journey.
By early afternoon, arrive in Chon Kemin National Park and settle into a welcoming family-run guesthouse. A freshly prepared homemade lunch is served, followed by time to relax.
In the afternoon, choose your preferred experience: a 2–3 hour guided horse riding journey through open meadows and gentle mountain trails, a relaxed horse carriage ride ideal for families, or a scenic hike for those who enjoy exploring on foot. Each option offers a different but equally rewarding way to experience the valley.
In the evening, enjoy a warm homemade dinner. Optional sauna and swimming pool access are available(extra). Overnight in a cozy guesthouse surrounded by quiet nature and a stunning night sky.
Meals: Lunch and Dinner
Accommodation: Family-run guesthouse in Chon Kemin
Continue to Kegety Gorge, a beautiful alpine valley known for its clear river, fresh mountain air, and forested slopes. A short walk takes you closer to the Kegety waterfall — a peaceful stop to stretch your legs, enjoy nature, and capture some of the best early photos of your journey.
By early afternoon, arrive in Chon Kemin National Park and settle into a welcoming family-run guesthouse. A freshly prepared homemade lunch is served, followed by time to relax.
In the afternoon, choose your preferred experience: a 2–3 hour guided horse riding journey through open meadows and gentle mountain trails, a relaxed horse carriage ride ideal for families, or a scenic hike for those who enjoy exploring on foot. Each option offers a different but equally rewarding way to experience the valley.
In the evening, enjoy a warm homemade dinner. Optional sauna and swimming pool access are available(extra). Overnight in a cozy guesthouse surrounded by quiet nature and a stunning night sky.
Meals: Lunch and Dinner
Accommodation: Family-run guesthouse in Chon Kemin
After breakfast your guide collects you and you set off east. The road passes through the dramatic Boom Gorge — a narrow rocky canyon where the Chu River cuts between high stone walls. It is a striking landscape and a natural photo stop on the way.
Your first stop is the Kok-Moynok Canyons, where you set off on foot into a striking landscape of red, orange, and purple rock formations shaped over millions of years. The terrain is easy and enjoyable to explore at a relaxed pace. Around one hour here is more than enough to fully experience the canyons, take in the dramatic scenery, and capture some truly memorable photos.
From the canyons, continue your drive toward the vast Issyk-Kul Lake, where the deep blue water appears dramatically against a backdrop of snow-capped peaks. Upon arrival in Cholpon-Ata, begin with a relaxed lunch before continuing to explore the area’s highlights. Visit the Ruh Ordo Cultural Center — a unique lakeside complex representing different world religions and cultural traditions in a peaceful setting by the shore. Afterwards, continue to the Cholpon-Ata Petroglyphs, where thousands of ancient engravings depict scenes of nomadic life dating back over 3,000 years. Between May and September, and depending on weather conditions, enjoy a short boat ride on the lake, followed by time to relax in nearby natural hot springs — a perfect way to unwind before the journey back.
In the late afternoon, begin your scenic drive back to Bishkek, arriving in the evening.
Meals: Breakfast and Lunch
Accommodation: Not included
Your first stop is the Kok-Moynok Canyons, where you set off on foot into a striking landscape of red, orange, and purple rock formations shaped over millions of years. The terrain is easy and enjoyable to explore at a relaxed pace. Around one hour here is more than enough to fully experience the canyons, take in the dramatic scenery, and capture some truly memorable photos.
From the canyons, continue your drive toward the vast Issyk-Kul Lake, where the deep blue water appears dramatically against a backdrop of snow-capped peaks. Upon arrival in Cholpon-Ata, begin with a relaxed lunch before continuing to explore the area’s highlights. Visit the Ruh Ordo Cultural Center — a unique lakeside complex representing different world religions and cultural traditions in a peaceful setting by the shore. Afterwards, continue to the Cholpon-Ata Petroglyphs, where thousands of ancient engravings depict scenes of nomadic life dating back over 3,000 years. Between May and September, and depending on weather conditions, enjoy a short boat ride on the lake, followed by time to relax in nearby natural hot springs — a perfect way to unwind before the journey back.
In the late afternoon, begin your scenic drive back to Bishkek, arriving in the evening.
Meals: Breakfast and Lunch
Accommodation: Not included
3-4 people
250 USD
2 people
300 USD
1 person
500 USD
Tour Booking
Price per person
Customise your tour
Flexible departures / customisable itineraries
Professional English-speaking guide
Private air-conditioned vehicle
Meals: 1B, 2L, 1D
1 night in a traditional yurt camp
All entrance fees to sites in the itinerary
Horseback riding(2-3 hours)
Visit to Issyk-Kul Lake with a visit to: Ruh Ordo, Petroglyphs, Boat Riding and Hot Springs
Bottled water throughout the tour
All fuel, road tolls, and parking
Hotel pick-up and drop-off in Bishkek
Inclusions
Not Included
Travel and health insurance (Recomended)
Personal expenses and souvenirs
Dinner on the last day
Accommodation on the last day
Tips for the guide (not required)
Any activities not listed in the itinerary
Itinerary
3-4 people
250 USD
2 people
300 USD
1 person
500 USD
Tour Booking
Price per person
Customise your tour
Flexible departures / customisable itineraries
Day 1
Bishkek — Burana Tower — Kegety Gorge — Chon Kemin National Park
Approx. 280 km — 4 to 5 hours of driving
Your guide meets you at your hotel in Bishkek and you set off eastward, leaving the city behind for open степи and mountain views. The first stop is the historic Burana Tower — a Silk Road landmark dating back to the 9th–10th centuries. Walk among the ancient balbal stone figures as your guide brings the history of this site to life, then climb the tower for panoramic views stretching toward the Tien Shan mountains.
Continue to Kegety Gorge, a beautiful alpine valley known for its clear river, fresh mountain air, and forested slopes. A short walk takes you closer to the Kegety waterfall — a peaceful stop to stretch your legs, enjoy nature, and capture some of the best early photos of your journey.
By early afternoon, arrive in Chon Kemin National Park and settle into a welcoming family-run guesthouse. A freshly prepared homemade lunch is served, followed by time to relax.
In the afternoon, choose your preferred experience: a 2–3 hour guided horse riding journey through open meadows and gentle mountain trails, a relaxed horse carriage ride ideal for families, or a scenic hike for those who enjoy exploring on foot. Each option offers a different but equally rewarding way to experience the valley.
In the evening, enjoy a warm homemade dinner. Optional sauna and swimming pool access are available(extra). Overnight in a cozy guesthouse surrounded by quiet nature and a stunning night sky.
Meals: Lunch and Dinner
Accommodation: Family-run guesthouse in Chon Kemin
Continue to Kegety Gorge, a beautiful alpine valley known for its clear river, fresh mountain air, and forested slopes. A short walk takes you closer to the Kegety waterfall — a peaceful stop to stretch your legs, enjoy nature, and capture some of the best early photos of your journey.
By early afternoon, arrive in Chon Kemin National Park and settle into a welcoming family-run guesthouse. A freshly prepared homemade lunch is served, followed by time to relax.
In the afternoon, choose your preferred experience: a 2–3 hour guided horse riding journey through open meadows and gentle mountain trails, a relaxed horse carriage ride ideal for families, or a scenic hike for those who enjoy exploring on foot. Each option offers a different but equally rewarding way to experience the valley.
In the evening, enjoy a warm homemade dinner. Optional sauna and swimming pool access are available(extra). Overnight in a cozy guesthouse surrounded by quiet nature and a stunning night sky.
Meals: Lunch and Dinner
Accommodation: Family-run guesthouse in Chon Kemin
After breakfast your guide collects you and you set off east. The road passes through the dramatic Boom Gorge — a narrow rocky canyon where the Chu River cuts between high stone walls. It is a striking landscape and a natural photo stop on the way.
Your first stop is the Kok-Moynok Canyons, where you set off on foot into a striking landscape of red, orange, and purple rock formations shaped over millions of years. The terrain is easy and enjoyable to explore at a relaxed pace. Around one hour here is more than enough to fully experience the canyons, take in the dramatic scenery, and capture some truly memorable photos.
From the canyons, continue your drive toward the vast Issyk-Kul Lake, where the deep blue water appears dramatically against a backdrop of snow-capped peaks. Upon arrival in Cholpon-Ata, begin with a relaxed lunch before continuing to explore the area’s highlights. Visit the Ruh Ordo Cultural Center — a unique lakeside complex representing different world religions and cultural traditions in a peaceful setting by the shore. Afterwards, continue to the Cholpon-Ata Petroglyphs, where thousands of ancient engravings depict scenes of nomadic life dating back over 3,000 years. Between May and September, and depending on weather conditions, enjoy a short boat ride on the lake, followed by time to relax in nearby natural hot springs — a perfect way to unwind before the journey back.
In the late afternoon, begin your scenic drive back to Bishkek, arriving in the evening.
Meals: Breakfast and Lunch
Accommodation: Not included
Your first stop is the Kok-Moynok Canyons, where you set off on foot into a striking landscape of red, orange, and purple rock formations shaped over millions of years. The terrain is easy and enjoyable to explore at a relaxed pace. Around one hour here is more than enough to fully experience the canyons, take in the dramatic scenery, and capture some truly memorable photos.
From the canyons, continue your drive toward the vast Issyk-Kul Lake, where the deep blue water appears dramatically against a backdrop of snow-capped peaks. Upon arrival in Cholpon-Ata, begin with a relaxed lunch before continuing to explore the area’s highlights. Visit the Ruh Ordo Cultural Center — a unique lakeside complex representing different world religions and cultural traditions in a peaceful setting by the shore. Afterwards, continue to the Cholpon-Ata Petroglyphs, where thousands of ancient engravings depict scenes of nomadic life dating back over 3,000 years. Between May and September, and depending on weather conditions, enjoy a short boat ride on the lake, followed by time to relax in nearby natural hot springs — a perfect way to unwind before the journey back.
In the late afternoon, begin your scenic drive back to Bishkek, arriving in the evening.
Meals: Breakfast and Lunch
Accommodation: Not included
Professional English-speaking guide
Private air-conditioned vehicle
Meals: 1B, 2L, 1D
1 night in a traditional yurt camp
All entrance fees to sites in the itinerary
Horseback riding(2-3 hours)
Visit to Issyk-Kul Lake with a visit to: Ruh Ordo, Petroglyphs, Boat Riding and Hot Springs
Bottled water throughout the tour
All fuel, road tolls, and parking
Hotel pick-up and drop-off in Bishkek
Inclusions
Not included
Travel and health insurance (Recomended)
Personal expenses and souvenirs
Dinner on the last day
Accommodation on the last day
Tips for the guide (not required)
Any activities not listed in the itinerary
MONEY&COSTS
The national currency is the Kyrgyz Som (KGS). In Bishkek and major towns, ATMs are widely available in shopping centers and on main streets, and you can pay by card in most restaurants and shops. Visa is the most widely accepted card, while MasterCard is less common and accepted only by specific banks. However, when traveling to the mountains or small villages, you must carry enough cash as ATMs are non-existent. We strongly recommend bringing new USD banknotes, as old or marked bills are often refused by exchange offices.
SAFETY
Kyrgyzstan is widely considered the safest and most open country in Central Asia, known for its stable political situation and hospitable locals. While the country is very safe, we recommend taking standard travel precautions just like anywhere else in the world: keep an eye on your belongings, avoid unlit streets at night, and always use official taxi services. Your safety is our top priority, and we work closely with trusted local partners to ensure a smooth and worry-free journey.
ENTRY&EXIT
Citizens of many developed countries can enter Kyrgyzstan visa-free for up to 60 days. If you are unsure about your specific visa requirements, simply contact us for assistance. We also arrange all special border permits required for your specific itinerary free of charge.
BEST TIME TO GO
Kyrgyzstan features a dry continental climate with a striking contrast between the valleys and the mountains. In major cities like Bishkek and the Ferghana Valley, summers can be intense, with daytime temperatures soaring between 30°C and 40°C (86°–104°F). However, since most of the country sits above 1,500 meters, the mountain air is much fresher and more comfortable, typically hovering around a pleasant 20°C–25°C (68°–77°F) during the day.
For outdoor enthusiasts, summer is the ideal season for trekking and jeep tours, granting full access to high-altitude pastures and breathtaking passes. Winter, on the other hand, transforms the landscape into a premier destination for skiing and snowboarding. Regardless of the season, mountain weather is unpredictable—at elevations over 3,000 meters, temperatures can drop below freezing even in July, so packing warm layers is essential for a comfortable journey.
For outdoor enthusiasts, summer is the ideal season for trekking and jeep tours, granting full access to high-altitude pastures and breathtaking passes. Winter, on the other hand, transforms the landscape into a premier destination for skiing and snowboarding. Regardless of the season, mountain weather is unpredictable—at elevations over 3,000 meters, temperatures can drop below freezing even in July, so packing warm layers is essential for a comfortable journey.
BEST TIME TO GO
Kyrgyzstan features a dry continental climate with a striking contrast between the valleys and the mountains. In major cities like Bishkek and the Ferghana Valley, summers can be intense, with daytime temperatures soaring between 30°C and 40°C (86°–104°F). However, since most of the country sits above 1,500 meters, the mountain air is much fresher and more comfortable, typically hovering around a pleasant 20°C–25°C (68°–77°F) during the day.
For outdoor enthusiasts, summer is the ideal season for trekking and jeep tours, granting full access to high-altitude pastures and breathtaking passes. Winter, on the other hand, transforms the landscape into a premier destination for skiing and snowboarding. Regardless of the season, mountain weather is unpredictable—at elevations over 3,000 meters, temperatures can drop below freezing even in July, so packing warm layers is essential for a comfortable journey.
For outdoor enthusiasts, summer is the ideal season for trekking and jeep tours, granting full access to high-altitude pastures and breathtaking passes. Winter, on the other hand, transforms the landscape into a premier destination for skiing and snowboarding. Regardless of the season, mountain weather is unpredictable—at elevations over 3,000 meters, temperatures can drop below freezing even in July, so packing warm layers is essential for a comfortable journey.
Frequently Asked Questions
The tour starts at 7:40 AM from the meeting place and lasts around 9-11 hours.
The best way to pay is cash (USD or local currency) directly to the guide on the day of the tour. We also accept card payments and can provide a payment link if needed.
The tour operates in all weather conditions. If it rains, we recommend bringing an umbrella or raincoat. If the weather is extreme, the boat ride may not be possible, but the rest of the activities will continue as planned.
Yes! You’ll have time to explore, take photos, and enjoy the scenery at Issyk Kul Lake, Burana Tower, and cultural sites.
- Professional English-speaking guide
- Comfortable sedan/minibus during the day
- Small-group tour (min 3 and max 15 passengers)
- Admission tickets to Burana Tower, Boat Tour, and Petroglyphs
- Small bottled water
- Comfortable shoes for walking and exploring
- Weather-appropriate clothing (hat/sunscreen in summer, warm layers in winter)
- Packed lunch (optional) if you’d like to have a meal during the boat ride
- Towel and swimsuit for the hot springs
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