Day trip to Issyk Kul lake: Barskoon waterfall and Ak-Sai canyons
Explore the wild south shore of Issyk Kul with canyon views, waterfall hikes, and a relaxed lakeside experience away from the crowds.
Price from:
50 USD
/ per person
Category:
Day Tour
Season:
All year around
Duration:
/ (Half Day)
6 hours
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
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
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
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
This part of the day is relaxed and flexible — a chance to enjoy the surroundings, rest, and take in the peaceful atmosphere.
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.
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
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.
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.
You will arrive back late in the evening, around 10:00–11:00 PM, where your guide will drop you off at your hotel.
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