Wild landscapes, hidden canyons, and waterfall trails — experience Issyk Kul beyond the usual.
This journey takes you along the southern shore of the lake, where landscapes feel more remote, natural, and authentic. Your guide will accompany you throughout the day, sharing insights, helping you explore, and making sure the experience feels smooth and enjoyable.
You will explore the Ak-Sai Canyons, a hidden natural wonder with red rock formations and wide panoramic views where the lake meets the mountains. Then continue to Barskoon Gorge, where you can hike through forest trails to beautiful waterfalls, choosing a route that matches your energy and comfort.
Along the way, you will stop at a hidden local place to enjoy traditional snacks, adding a small but authentic touch to the journey.
You will also enjoy lunch either in nature by the river or in a traditional yurt by the lake, depending on your preference. This tour is ideal for travelers who want a more adventurous and l
Highlights
Experience a full-day journey through mountains, lake, and remote landscapes
Explore the untouched southern shore of Issyk Kul, far from mass tourism
Hike to Barskoon Waterfalls with routes adapted to your fitness level
Enjoy lunch in nature or a traditional yurt by the lake
Discover the hidden Ak-Sai Canyons with dramatic “Mars-like” landscapes
Itinerary
3-4 people
100 USD
2 people
125 USD
1 person
200 USD
Tour Booking
Price per person
Book now
Pick-up and drop-off from your hotel in Bishkek
Bottled water and light snacks.
Lunch at a traditional yurt or in nature
Entry tickets to Barskoon Gorge and Ak-Sai Canyons
Photo stops at scenic viewpoints
Air-conditioned vehicle with a driver
Professional English-speaking horse guide.
Inclusions
Lunch(can be covered on the spot)
Personal expenses
Health Insurance
Not Included
Customise your tour
Flexible departures / customisable itineraries
Book a private tour
Bishkek
Your guide will meet you early in the morning at your hotel in Bishkek. We begin a scenic drive toward the southern shore of Issyk Kul Lake, passing through valleys and mountain landscapes.
Along the way, we stop at a hidden local spot, where you can enjoy traditional snacks such as kattama with sour cream and tea prepared in a samovar. If you prefer, a simple breakfast can also be arranged. Your guide will assist and make sure everything is comfortable before continuing the journey.
01
Ak Say Canyons
Our first main stop is the Ak-Sai Canyons, one of the most beautiful and lesser-visited places in the region. Here, your guide will lead you through a landscape of red rock formations and deep canyons, often compared to Mars. From the viewpoints, you will enjoy stunning panoramic views where the red canyon, blue lake, and snow-covered peaks come together. This is a perfect place for photos, short walks, and simply taking in the unique scenery.
02
Lunch
We then continue toward the lake for lunch. You can choose between a traditional yurt by the shore of Issyk Kul or a picnic-style lunch in nature near the river. This part of the day is relaxed and flexible — a chance to enjoy the surroundings, rest, and take in the peaceful atmosphere.
03
Next, we explore Barskoon Gorge, one of the most scenic mountain valleys in Kyrgyzstan.
Here, you can choose your hiking route depending on your comfort level — from an easy 30-minute walk to a more extended hike through forest trails. Your guide will support you throughout and help adjust the pace. At the waterfalls, you will feel the fresh mountain air and enjoy the views of cascading water surrounded by forest and cliffs — a rewarding and refreshing experience.
Barskoon waterfall
04
Eagle Hunting(optional)
For those interested, an optional eagle hunting demonstration can be arranged in Bokonbaevo village in the evening (additional cost). This offers a unique insight into traditional Kyrgyz hunting culture.
05
Return to Bishkek
After a full day of exploration, we begin our return journey to Bishkek. Sit back and relax as we drive back through the changing landscapes. You will arrive back late in the evening, around 10:00–11:00 PM, where your guide will drop you off at your hotel.
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.
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.
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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