3 Days Around Issyk-Kul Lake — Eagle Hunting, Yurt Stay, Canyons and Waterfalls
Fully private 3-day adventure around Issyk-Kul Lake combining culture, nature, horse riding, eagle hunting, waterfalls, canyons, and authentic yurt stays for travelers wanting the complete Kyrgyz experience.
Price from:
275 USD
/ per person
Category:
Cultural/Multi-Day
Season:
All year around
Duration:
/1 night
2 Days
Sleep in a yurt. Hunt with an eagle. Never forget it.
Experience the very best of Issyk-Kul Lake on this unforgettable 3-day private journey combining Kyrgyzstan’s most beautiful landscapes with authentic nomadic traditions. Travel around the world’s second-largest alpine lake while discovering ancient Silk Road monuments, dramatic red canyons, mountain waterfalls, lush alpine valleys, and charming lakeside towns.
Meet a traditional eagle hunter and witness one of Kyrgyzstan’s proudest cultural traditions, ride horses through scenic mountain trails, sleep in a traditional yurt near the lake, and enjoy a boat ride on the crystal-clear waters of Issyk-Kul.
Known as the “Pearl of Central Asia,” Issyk-Kul never freezes despite sitting high in the mountains, making it one of the most unique lakes in the world.
Throughout the journey, your guide ensures the trip remains private, relaxed, and flexible to your group’s pace and interests.
Meet a traditional eagle hunter and witness one of Kyrgyzstan’s proudest cultural traditions, ride horses through scenic mountain trails, sleep in a traditional yurt near the lake, and enjoy a boat ride on the crystal-clear waters of Issyk-Kul.
Known as the “Pearl of Central Asia,” Issyk-Kul never freezes despite sitting high in the mountains, making it one of the most unique lakes in the world.
Throughout the journey, your guide ensures the trip remains private, relaxed, and flexible to your group’s pace and interests.
Highlights
Explore the ancient Silk Road ruins of the famous Burana Tower.
Hike the red walls of Konorchek and explore the golden rock formations of Skazka — Fairytale Canyon.
In Bokonbayevo, hold a real hunting eagle on your arm — trained by a world champion.
Ride horses along the shore of Issyk-Kul — one of the world's deepest lakes. No experience needed.
Spend the night in a real yurt right on the shore of Issyk-Kul Lake.
Itinerary
280 km — 4-5 hrs driving
Day 1
Bishkek — Burana Tower — Konorchek Canyons— Bokonbaevo
Your guide picks you up from your hotel in Bishkek in the morning, and your journey begins toward the stunning shores of Issyk-Kul Lake, with the majestic Tien Shan Mountains gradually rising in the distance.
The first stop is the historic Burana Tower — a remarkable Silk Road landmark dating back to the 9th–10th centuries. Walk among the ancient balbal stone figures as your guide brings the story of Balasagun to life, then ascend the tower for sweeping panoramic views toward the majestic Tien Shan mountains.
For those looking to add a bit of adventure, you continue to Konorchek Canyons for a 2–3 hour hike through striking red rock formations shaped by wind and time. The walk is scenic and not too difficult, with plenty of beautiful viewpoints. If you prefer a more relaxed pace, this part can be skipped to spend more time by Issyk-Kul Lake.
In the afternoon, you arrive in Bokonbaevo village for the highlight of the day — a traditional eagle hunting demonstration. Meet a local hunter, learn why golden eagles were so important in nomadic life, and watch a live hunting demonstration as the eagle flies powerfully across the open landscape — a truly unforgettable moment and perfect for photos.
By evening, you reach your yurt camp near the lake. Check into your traditional yurts, enjoy a warm dinner with homemade Kyrgyz food, and end the day around a cozy bonfire under the open sky.
Meals: Lunch and Dinner
Accommodation: Yurt Camp Issyk Kul lake
The first stop is the historic Burana Tower — a remarkable Silk Road landmark dating back to the 9th–10th centuries. Walk among the ancient balbal stone figures as your guide brings the story of Balasagun to life, then ascend the tower for sweeping panoramic views toward the majestic Tien Shan mountains.
For those looking to add a bit of adventure, you continue to Konorchek Canyons for a 2–3 hour hike through striking red rock formations shaped by wind and time. The walk is scenic and not too difficult, with plenty of beautiful viewpoints. If you prefer a more relaxed pace, this part can be skipped to spend more time by Issyk-Kul Lake.
In the afternoon, you arrive in Bokonbaevo village for the highlight of the day — a traditional eagle hunting demonstration. Meet a local hunter, learn why golden eagles were so important in nomadic life, and watch a live hunting demonstration as the eagle flies powerfully across the open landscape — a truly unforgettable moment and perfect for photos.
By evening, you reach your yurt camp near the lake. Check into your traditional yurts, enjoy a warm dinner with homemade Kyrgyz food, and end the day around a cozy bonfire under the open sky.
Meals: Lunch and Dinner
Accommodation: Yurt Camp Issyk Kul lake
Bokonbaevo — Horse Riding — Skazka Canyon — Barskoon —Jeti-Oguz — Karakol
Day 2
180 km — 4-5 hrs driving
Wake up in your traditional yurt surrounded by the peaceful nature of Issyk-Kul Lake and enjoy a fresh breakfast to start the day. Afterward, set out for a short horseback riding experience, either through gentle mountain trails or along the lakeshore. This relaxed ride offers beautiful panoramic views and is suitable even for beginners, making it a perfect introduction to nomadic life.
Continue your journey to Skazka Canyon, also known as Fairytale Canyon, where colorful red and orange rock formations create a unique, almost surreal landscape. Enjoy an easy walk through the canyon as your guide shows you the most scenic viewpoints and hidden spots.
Next, head into the lush Barskoon Gorge, known for its alpine scenery and waterfalls. Together with your guide, take a short hike through forested trails to reach one of the waterfalls — a scenic spot perfect for photos, with fresh mountain air and beautiful natural surroundings.
In the afternoon, visit Jeti-Oguz Gorge, also called the Seven Bulls, famous for its striking red rock formations. Learn about the local legends behind these iconic cliffs while enjoying the views.
After a full and active day, you have the option to relax in natural hot springs — a perfect way to unwind. By evening, arrive in Karakol, check into your comfortable hotel, enjoy dinner, and rest for the night.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Accommodation: Hotel in Karakol
Continue your journey to Skazka Canyon, also known as Fairytale Canyon, where colorful red and orange rock formations create a unique, almost surreal landscape. Enjoy an easy walk through the canyon as your guide shows you the most scenic viewpoints and hidden spots.
Next, head into the lush Barskoon Gorge, known for its alpine scenery and waterfalls. Together with your guide, take a short hike through forested trails to reach one of the waterfalls — a scenic spot perfect for photos, with fresh mountain air and beautiful natural surroundings.
In the afternoon, visit Jeti-Oguz Gorge, also called the Seven Bulls, famous for its striking red rock formations. Learn about the local legends behind these iconic cliffs while enjoying the views.
After a full and active day, you have the option to relax in natural hot springs — a perfect way to unwind. By evening, arrive in Karakol, check into your comfortable hotel, enjoy dinner, and rest for the night.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Accommodation: Hotel in Karakol
After breakfast, begin your day with a short exploration of Karakol, a charming town shaped by different cultures over time. Visit the unique Dungan Mosque, built entirely of wood without nails in Chinese style, and the beautiful Holy Trinity Orthodox Cathedral, reflecting Russian influence. Your guide shares stories that help you understand the diverse history of this mountain town.
Leaving Karakol, continue toward the scenic Grigoriev and Semenov Gorges. These peaceful alpine valleys are filled with pine forests, rivers, and open meadows. Enjoy time for a gentle walk in nature, or for those interested, there is an optional short horseback ride (not included), offering a different perspective of the landscape.
In the afternoon, arrive in Cholpon-Ata and visit the open-air Rukh Ordo Cultural Center, where different cultures and traditions come together by the lake. Nearby, explore the ancient petroglyphs, with stone carvings dating back over 2,000 years.
From May to September, enjoy a relaxing boat ride on Issyk-Kul Lake, with a chance to swim in the clear, refreshing water — a perfect highlight to end your time by the lake.
Afterward, begin your comfortable return drive to Bishkek along the northern lakeshore. Arrival in the evening with drop-off at your hotel, marking the end of your journey.
Meals: Breakfast and Lunch
Accommodation: Not Included
Leaving Karakol, continue toward the scenic Grigoriev and Semenov Gorges. These peaceful alpine valleys are filled with pine forests, rivers, and open meadows. Enjoy time for a gentle walk in nature, or for those interested, there is an optional short horseback ride (not included), offering a different perspective of the landscape.
In the afternoon, arrive in Cholpon-Ata and visit the open-air Rukh Ordo Cultural Center, where different cultures and traditions come together by the lake. Nearby, explore the ancient petroglyphs, with stone carvings dating back over 2,000 years.
From May to September, enjoy a relaxing boat ride on Issyk-Kul Lake, with a chance to swim in the clear, refreshing water — a perfect highlight to end your time by the lake.
Afterward, begin your comfortable return drive to Bishkek along the northern lakeshore. Arrival in the evening with drop-off at your hotel, marking the end of your journey.
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
All accomondation as per itinerary
All entrance fees to sites in the itinerary
Horseback riding(1-2 hours)
Bathing in natural hot springs
Boat Tour in Issyk Kul lake
Live eagle hunting demonstration
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 — Konorchek Canyons— Bokonbaevo
280 km — 4-5 hrs driving
Your guide picks you up from your hotel in Bishkek in the morning, and your journey begins toward the stunning shores of Issyk-Kul Lake, with the majestic Tien Shan Mountains gradually rising in the distance.
The first stop is the historic Burana Tower — a remarkable Silk Road landmark dating back to the 9th–10th centuries. Walk among the ancient balbal stone figures as your guide brings the story of Balasagun to life, then ascend the tower for sweeping panoramic views toward the majestic Tien Shan mountains.
For those looking to add a bit of adventure, you continue to Konorchek Canyons for a 2–3 hour hike through striking red rock formations shaped by wind and time. The walk is scenic and not too difficult, with plenty of beautiful viewpoints. If you prefer a more relaxed pace, this part can be skipped to spend more time by Issyk-Kul Lake.
In the afternoon, you arrive in Bokonbaevo village for the highlight of the day — a traditional eagle hunting demonstration. Meet a local hunter, learn why golden eagles were so important in nomadic life, and watch a live hunting demonstration as the eagle flies powerfully across the open landscape — a truly unforgettable moment and perfect for photos.
By evening, you reach your yurt camp near the lake. Check into your traditional yurts, enjoy a warm dinner with homemade Kyrgyz food, and end the day around a cozy bonfire under the open sky.
Meals: Lunch and Dinner
Accommodation: Yurt Camp Issyk Kul lake
The first stop is the historic Burana Tower — a remarkable Silk Road landmark dating back to the 9th–10th centuries. Walk among the ancient balbal stone figures as your guide brings the story of Balasagun to life, then ascend the tower for sweeping panoramic views toward the majestic Tien Shan mountains.
For those looking to add a bit of adventure, you continue to Konorchek Canyons for a 2–3 hour hike through striking red rock formations shaped by wind and time. The walk is scenic and not too difficult, with plenty of beautiful viewpoints. If you prefer a more relaxed pace, this part can be skipped to spend more time by Issyk-Kul Lake.
In the afternoon, you arrive in Bokonbaevo village for the highlight of the day — a traditional eagle hunting demonstration. Meet a local hunter, learn why golden eagles were so important in nomadic life, and watch a live hunting demonstration as the eagle flies powerfully across the open landscape — a truly unforgettable moment and perfect for photos.
By evening, you reach your yurt camp near the lake. Check into your traditional yurts, enjoy a warm dinner with homemade Kyrgyz food, and end the day around a cozy bonfire under the open sky.
Meals: Lunch and Dinner
Accommodation: Yurt Camp Issyk Kul lake
Bokonbaevo — Horse Riding — Skazka Canyon — Barskoon — Jeti-Oguz — Karakol
Day 2
180 km — 4-5 hrs driving
Wake up in your traditional yurt surrounded by the peaceful nature of Issyk-Kul Lake and enjoy a fresh breakfast to start the day. Afterward, set out for a short horseback riding experience, either through gentle mountain trails or along the lakeshore. This relaxed ride offers beautiful panoramic views and is suitable even for beginners, making it a perfect introduction to nomadic life.
Continue your journey to Skazka Canyon, also known as Fairytale Canyon, where colorful red and orange rock formations create a unique, almost surreal landscape. Enjoy an easy walk through the canyon as your guide shows you the most scenic viewpoints and hidden spots.
Next, head into the lush Barskoon Gorge, known for its alpine scenery and waterfalls. Together with your guide, take a short hike through forested trails to reach one of the waterfalls — a scenic spot perfect for photos, with fresh mountain air and beautiful natural surroundings.
In the afternoon, visit Jeti-Oguz Gorge, also called the Seven Bulls, famous for its striking red rock formations. Learn about the local legends behind these iconic cliffs while enjoying the views.
After a full and active day, you have the option to relax in natural hot springs — a perfect way to unwind. By evening, arrive in Karakol, check into your comfortable hotel, enjoy dinner, and rest for the night.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Accommodation: Hotel in Karakol
Continue your journey to Skazka Canyon, also known as Fairytale Canyon, where colorful red and orange rock formations create a unique, almost surreal landscape. Enjoy an easy walk through the canyon as your guide shows you the most scenic viewpoints and hidden spots.
Next, head into the lush Barskoon Gorge, known for its alpine scenery and waterfalls. Together with your guide, take a short hike through forested trails to reach one of the waterfalls — a scenic spot perfect for photos, with fresh mountain air and beautiful natural surroundings.
In the afternoon, visit Jeti-Oguz Gorge, also called the Seven Bulls, famous for its striking red rock formations. Learn about the local legends behind these iconic cliffs while enjoying the views.
After a full and active day, you have the option to relax in natural hot springs — a perfect way to unwind. By evening, arrive in Karakol, check into your comfortable hotel, enjoy dinner, and rest for the night.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Accommodation: Hotel in Karakol
Karakol — Grigoriev Gorge — Cholpon-Ata — Bishkek
Day 3
Approx. 410 km — 6 to 7 hours of driving
After breakfast, begin your day with a short exploration of Karakol, a charming town shaped by different cultures over time. Visit the unique Dungan Mosque, built entirely of wood without nails in Chinese style, and the beautiful Holy Trinity Orthodox Cathedral, reflecting Russian influence. Your guide shares stories that help you understand the diverse history of this mountain town.
Leaving Karakol, continue toward the scenic Grigoriev and Semenov Gorges. These peaceful alpine valleys are filled with pine forests, rivers, and open meadows. Enjoy time for a gentle walk in nature, or for those interested, there is an optional short horseback ride (not included), offering a different perspective of the landscape.
In the afternoon, arrive in Cholpon-Ata and visit the open-air Rukh Ordo Cultural Center, where different cultures and traditions come together by the lake. Nearby, explore the ancient petroglyphs, with stone carvings dating back over 2,000 years.
From May to September, enjoy a relaxing boat ride on Issyk-Kul Lake, with a chance to swim in the clear, refreshing water — a perfect highlight to end your time by the lake.
Afterward, begin your comfortable return drive to Bishkek along the northern lakeshore. Arrival in the evening with drop-off at your hotel, marking the end of your journey.
Meals: Breakfast and Lunch
Accommodation: Not Included
Leaving Karakol, continue toward the scenic Grigoriev and Semenov Gorges. These peaceful alpine valleys are filled with pine forests, rivers, and open meadows. Enjoy time for a gentle walk in nature, or for those interested, there is an optional short horseback ride (not included), offering a different perspective of the landscape.
In the afternoon, arrive in Cholpon-Ata and visit the open-air Rukh Ordo Cultural Center, where different cultures and traditions come together by the lake. Nearby, explore the ancient petroglyphs, with stone carvings dating back over 2,000 years.
From May to September, enjoy a relaxing boat ride on Issyk-Kul Lake, with a chance to swim in the clear, refreshing water — a perfect highlight to end your time by the lake.
Afterward, begin your comfortable return drive to Bishkek along the northern lakeshore. Arrival in the evening with drop-off at your hotel, marking the end of your journey.
Meals: Breakfast and Lunch
Accommodation: Not Included
Professional English-speaking guide
Private air-conditioned vehicle
Meals: 1B, 2L, 1D
All accomondation as per itinerary
All entrance fees to sites in the itinerary
Horseback riding(1-2 hours)
Bathing in natural hot springs
Boat Tour in Issyk Kul lake
Live eagle hunting demonstration
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.
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.
HEALTH
To ensure a healthy trip, avoid drinking tap water or using it for brushing teeth; rely on bottled or filtered water instead. When it comes to food, it is safer to stick to freshly cooked, hot meals and fruits that you can peel yourself. These simple habits are your best defense against common stomach issues and will help you stay energized.
Before you travel, we recommend checking that your routine vaccinations—specifically Diphtheria, Hepatitis A, and Tetanus—are up to date. Since medical infrastructure in remote mountain areas can be limited, having comprehensive travel insurance that covers emergency evacuation is essential for your safety and peace of mind.
Before you travel, we recommend checking that your routine vaccinations—specifically Diphtheria, Hepatitis A, and Tetanus—are up to date. Since medical infrastructure in remote mountain areas can be limited, having comprehensive travel insurance that covers emergency evacuation is essential for your safety and peace of mind.
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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