Your guide meets you at your hotel in Bishkek, and your journey begins toward Issyk-Kul Lake.
Start with a visit to the historic Burana Tower, one of the most important Silk Road monuments. Walk through the ancient site, explore the balbal stones, and climb the tower for wide panoramic views, with the impressive Tien Shan mountain range rising in the distance.\

Continue east as landscapes slowly open into mountains. Along the way, enjoy an optional stop at Konorchek Canyon. Guests who enjoy light adventure can take an easy scenic hike through red rock formations, usually around 2 to 3 hours in total. Those who prefer a more relaxed pace can skip the hike and continue directly, allowing more time to arrive earlier at Issyk-Kul Lake and enjoy the peaceful lakeside setting.

By afternoon, arrive at the southern shore of Issyk-Kul. Here you experience one of the greatest highlights of Kyrgyz culture — a traditional eagle hunting demonstration. Feel the power of the golden eagle, learn about this ancient tradition, and take unforgettable photos with the bird.

In the evening, check into your cozy yurt camp by the lake. Enjoy dinner with peaceful views, followed by a bonfire to relax and share impressions of your first day.

Meals: Lunch and Dinner
Accommodation: Yurt Camp in Bokonbaevo

After breakfast, your guide meets you and the journey continues along the scenic southern shore of Issyk-Kul Lake.

Your first stop is one of Kyrgyzstan’s most photogenic natural wonders — Fairytale Canyon. This unique landscape of red sandstone formations has been shaped by wind and time into natural sculptures resembling castles, animals, and dramatic walls. Enjoy an easy walk through the canyon while your guide shows you the best viewpoints for photos.

Continue east toward Barskoon Gorge, one of the most beautiful valleys in the region. Surrounded by pine forests and mountain peaks, you will take a short hike to the Barskoon waterfalls, where fresh glacier water flows down into the valley. The walk can be adapted to your pace, making it comfortable and enjoyable.

After lunch, travel to Jeti-Oguz Gorge, one of the most iconic places in Kyrgyzstan. The famous red rock formations known as the “Seven Bulls” and “Broken Heart” create a dramatic natural setting. Here you can enjoy a relaxed walk and take in the wide mountain scenery. For those who want more activity, optional horseback riding toward Kok-Jaiyk Valley can be arranged.

In the evening, arrive in Karakol and check into your comfortable hotel. If you wish, your guide can include a stop at natural hot springs before dinner — a perfect way to relax after the day.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Hotel in Karakol

After breakfast, begin the day with a short city tour of Karakol, a town known for its unique cultural mix. Visit the Dungan Mosque, built in traditional Chinese style without nails, and the wooden Russian Orthodox Church. If you are interested, your guide can also include a visit to the local museum, where you learn about the historical influence of Russian and Chinese communities in Kyrgyzstan.

Leaving Karakol, continue your journey along the northern shore of Issyk-Kul Lake, where the landscape opens into wide views of water and mountains. Along the way, explore the beautiful Semenov and Grigoriev Gorges, known for their alpine scenery, rivers, and peaceful natural setting. Enjoy short walks, fresh mountain air, and time for photos.

Arrive in Cholpon-Ata for lunch at a local restaurant by the lake. Afterward, explore the Ruh Ordo cultural complex and the nearby open-air petroglyph site, where ancient rock carvings offer insight into early nomadic life. A boat ride on Issyk-Kul Lake with the opportunity to swim in the clear water using provided life jackets. For those looking to relax further, a visit to natural hot springs can also be arranged.

In the afternoon, continue driving toward Chon-Kemin Valley through scenic landscapes. Upon arrival, check into a comfortable family-run guesthouse. Enjoy a home-style dinner and a peaceful evening surrounded by nature.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Guesthouse in Chon-Kemin Valley

Start your morning in the peaceful surroundings of Chon-Kemin Valley with a traditional boorsok cooking masterclass. Learn how to prepare this local Kyrgyz bread and enjoy it fresh for breakfast, a warm and authentic way to begin your day.

After breakfast, choose one activity based on your mood and energy level. Options include a scenic hike into the alpine forest, guided horseback riding through the valley or along the river (2–3 hours), or a relaxed horse carriage ride through the countryside.

For those interested in cultural experiences, there is an opportunity to watch traditional Kyrgyz horse games such as Kok Boru, horse wrestling, Tyin Enmei, or Kyz Kuumai (can be arranged at additional cost). Rafting is also available as an optional activity for a more active experience.

This final day is designed to remain engaging and flexible, allowing you to enjoy the valley at your own pace before departure. In the afternoon, begin the drive back to Bishkek through scenic mountain landscapes, with drop-off at your hotel or airport.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Accommodation: Not included