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Best of Song Kul and Issyk Kul Lakes Tour in 4 Days
Dive into the heart of Kyrgyzstan with a journey to Song Kul and Issyk Kul Lakes, each offering its own unique experience. Song Kul, nestled within high-altitude meadows, invites you into a world of nomadic traditions and untouched landscapes, offering a serene escape into the life of Kyrgyz nomads. Meanwhile, Issyk Kul is surrounded by breathtaking mountains, waterfalls, canyons, and valleys, offering endless opportunities for exploration and adventure. This adventure not only showcases breathtaking landscapes but also immerses you in Kyrgyzstan's rich culture and history. Join us to explore these unique destinations, where stunning natural beauty meets vibrant cultural traditions, for memories that will last a lifetime.
Travelers from all over the world visit Song Kul Lake, nestled 3,200 meters above sea level among the Tien Shan Mountains, to immerse themselves in a true nomadic lifestyle and the pure, untouched beauty of nature. This enchanting destination offers a unique blend of traditional nomadic culture and breathtaking landscapes, where visitors can engage in horseback riding through the majestic mountains, learn to milk cows or horses, and spend a night in a traditional yurt equipped with modern amenities like toilets and showers with hot water. Experience the harmony of human and nature in Song Kul Lake.
From the tranquil highlands of Song Kul Lake, our journey brings us to the captivating shores of Issyk Kul Lake, where the beauty of nature meets authentic Kyrgyz culture. As we embark on a round trip around Issyk Kul, we delve into a world of natural wonders and historical richness. The journey reveals the mystical Skazka Canyons, the majestic Barskoon Gorge, and the picturesque Jeti Oguz Valley. We explore the historical depths of Karakol city, absorbing its local charm. The experience is enhanced by a night in a traditional yurt by the lake, offering a peaceful connection to nature. Highlighting the authenticity of the adventure, an eagle hunting demonstration introduces us to the ancient skills that have been passed down through generations. Circling Issyk Kul Lake, each stop weaves a story of natural beauty and cultural heritage, promising a memorable journey through one of Kyrgyzstan's most captivating landscapes.
What to expect
In the morning you’ll be picked up from a hotel to start your exciting tour. We’ll head towards Burana Tower to the small town of Tokmok (80km from Bishkek). Your guide will show you the mausoleums and other buildings discovered by archaeologists during excavations, you will have a chance to climb to the top of the ancient tower, where there is a beautiful view of the Chui valley and the Tien-Shan mountains open. Visit the small museum, which presents various archaeological artifacts, as well as an open-air museum, which contains ancient gravestones, rock drawings, and other interesting historical objects found on the territory of our country.
The Boom gorge is the connecting link between Chui valley and Song Kol lake. In the gorge flows one of the largest rivers of Tien-Shan – Chu. The river broke this large and picturesque gorge among the mountains. It will be our stop for the snacks and tea at one of the restaurants. National puff cakes with soar cream and tea boiled in russian samovar with unique taste.
Orto Tokoy reservoir is another picturesque place we will stop where you can enjoy the panoramic view to the first build reservoir surrounded by great dry mountains of Naryn region. This place is the only where you can witness camels in Kyrgyzstan because of the weather conditions.
After 2-3 hours driving we will finally start ascending to Song-Kol lake. The surrounding view changes color and texture all the time: from stony dunes to green hills. Here you can meet peacefully grazing mountain yaks - majestic animals that amaze with their power. Also in the vast meadows of the pass the mountain edelweiss grows. These beautiful flowers have become a real symbol of the mountains; lyrical works are dedicated to them. From the highest point, you can see the surrounding mountain peaks and the valley, from where the ascent began. There is an opportunity to estimate the scale of the done path and is breathtaking. Further, the road leads to descent, and hiking down is greatly accelerated. Very little remains until the meeting with the Song-Kul Lake. The journey through the Kalmak-Ashuu Pass is an exciting adventure.
Around 5 PM we will finally arrive at our yurt camp in Song-Kol lake. Check in to our yurts, have some rest after long drive. Have free time before dinner, and as soon as it gets dark we will make a fire and enjoy the lake and stars.
Begin your day with a gentle horseback ride in the morning, either up to a nearby mountain hill for spectacular views or along the tranquil shores of Song-Kol Lake. This peaceful start to the day allows you to connect with the calm beauty of the Kyrgyz landscape.
Next, you'll travel to Issyk-Kul Lake. On the way, you'll drive over the high Terkey Torpok Pass. This road is famous for its many tight turns and it goes very high, over 3000 meters above sea level.
You'll stop for lunch in Kochkor village. Here, you can enjoy a meal with a local family or at a village restaurant, tasting traditional Kyrgyz food.
After lunch, you'll depart for Bokonbaevo village, located on the picturesque north shore of Issyk-Kul Lake. This part of the journey will take you through more of Kyrgyzstan's stunning landscapes, providing opportunities to admire the natural beauty of the region.
In Bokonbaevo village, prepare for an enthralling eagle hunting demonstration. You'll have the unique opportunity to witness skilled hunters and their magnificent eagles in action. This showcases the remarkable bond between humans and these majestic birds of prey. It's a chance to capture the ancient tradition of eagle hunting and its significance in Kyrgyz culture.
The day's excitement continues as you delve into more aspects of Kyrgyz nomadic culture. Experience the age-old tradition of dog hunting and try your hand at archery. Participate in these practices and gain insights into the hunting techniques and skills that have been passed down through generations.
After a day filled with cultural experiences and adventures, you'll have well-deserved time to rest and relax in the comfortable Bel Tam yurt camp. It's a peaceful and tranquil setting where you can unwind and reflect on the day's activities.
Embark on an adventure of a lifetime on the third day of your tour and awaken your senses with a sumptuous breakfast in a traditional yurt. Get ready to marvel at the enchanting beauty of Kyrgyzstan as we drive towards Skazka Canyon. The canyon is a fairy tale land of majestic rock formations and sculptures carved by nature's winds. Get ready to be awestruck by the surreal landscape, with rocks resembling the Great Wall of China, mythical creatures, and even entire castles! The colors of the rocks are just as spellbinding, with hues ranging from rich reds to muted grays.
Next, we venture into the heart of the Barskoon Valley, surrounded by towering mountains, cascading waterfalls, and lush spruce forests. Get up close and personal with the awe-inspiring chain of Barskoon waterfalls, with three waterfalls to choose from depending on your preference. Take in the breathtaking views and let the sound of the gushing water soothe your soul.
Get ready for a journey through history as we visit Jeti-Oguz Canyon, known for its stunning sandstone formations shaped like seven bulls and the "broken heart." This famous landmark has inspired countless poems, paintings, and music videos and is a must-visit for any traveler to Kyrgyzstan. Do 2-3 hours of horseback riding to Kok-Zhaik valley and to its waterfall(optional).
After a day filled with wonder and adventure, unwind in the comfort of natural hot springs surrounded by stunning mountain scenery. Recharge your batteries and enjoy a delightful dinner at a top-rated restaurant before retiring for the night in a 3-star hotel. With so much to see and experience, this day promises to be an unforgettable adventure that will stay with you forever!
Cholpon Ata - Bishkek
Embark on a journey through the heart of Karakol and uncover the town's rich history and vibrant culture. Your knowledgeable English-speaking guide will take you on a tour of the most interesting and lesser-known sites, including the charming Dungan Mosque, the striking Russian Orthodox Church, and the bustling Bugu Bazaar. As you explore the streets and markets, you'll hear the fascinating stories and legends of Karakol, gaining a unique insight into the daily life of the town.
Next, escape to the stunning Grigoriev & Semenov Gorges and immerse yourself in the beauty of the Tien-Shan mountains. As you wander the slopes blanketed in red poppies and listen to the soothing sounds of mountain streams, you'll have the opportunity to taste traditional Kyrgyz cuisine in a cozy yurt. Horse lovers can even take a leisurely ride on horseback, soaking in the breathtaking landscape. Afterwards, we will continue through the Grigoriev Gorge to the Semenovskaye Gorge, surrounded by lush spruce forests and fragrant herbs.
Get ready for a truly awe-inspiring experience as we set sail on the world-renowned Issyk-Kul Lake, the second largest alpine lake on the planet. Surrounded by towering peaks of the Tian Shan Mountains, you'll be enchanted by the clear and cool waters, perfect for a refreshing swim. Take in the stunning scenery, and capture memories to last a lifetime.
Before reaching Bishkek, we visit the Ruh Ordo Cultural Complex, a testament to Kyrgyzstan’s diverse spiritual heritage, and explore ancient Petroglyphs, offering a glimpse into the lives of the region's early inhabitants. Finally, we conclude our journey in Bishkek, ensuring a smooth drop-off at your hotel, where you can unwind and reflect on the remarkable adventure and the seamless blend of nature, culture, and history experienced over these four days.
What is included?
Overnight in yurt and 3 star hotel
TOUR PRICES
1300 USD
Private tour for one person
800 USD
Group of 2 people
600 USD
Group of 3-4 people
BY REQUEST
Group of 5 and more people