Kyrgyzstan, Land of the Nomads “The last frontier”
Starting from
Direct nomadic local support
👥 Group Pricing
Overview
This is a remote adventure trip and sometimes the itinerary does not go as planned, toilets,(sometimes not available) accommodation, transport and roads may not be to western standards, bottled water is not always available, food is basic,( we will try our hardest to accommodate specific dietary requirements but this is not guaranteed) Duration 14 days.
Highlights
Bishkek and the vibrant Osh Bazaar
Burana tower and the ancient city of Balasagun
Yurt stays, nomadic culture and rich traditions
Vast and unique alpine landscapes
Serene high-altitude lakes, Song Kul and Issyk Kul and Kol Su
Ak Sai Plateau and Kyzyl Bel Pass
Kok Kiya Valley Valley and the At Bashy Range
Silk road heritage
Itinerary
Arrival in Bishkek
Itinerary Day 1: Arrival in Bishkek Arrive in Bishkek, the bustling capital of Kyrgyzstan, nestled at the foot of the Tien Shan mountains. Transfer to our guest house. Settle in, freshen up, and enjoy some downtime before joining your fellow travelers to enjoy a welcome dinner at a traditional Kyrgyz restaurant, where you'll savor local dishes such as beshbarmak (noodles with lamb or beef) and manty (steamed dumplings). This is the perfect opportunity to meet your fellow travelers and guides and trip brief about the upcoming adventure. Guest House (D)
Journey to Song Kul Lake
Today, embark on a scenic drive toward Song Kul Lake, a high-altitude gem (3,016 meters above sea level) nestled amidst the nestled within the Songköl Too mountains. passing through picturesque landscapes of rolling hills, green pastures, and nomadic villages. Along the way, stop to visit the ancient city of Balasagun and the Burana Minaret which once dominated this great silk road city. Arriving at Song Kul Lake, our first tranquil escape into nature and the vast, serene beauty of the lake surrounded by grazing horses and herds of sheep and yaks. Upon arrival, check into your yurt camp, where you'll experience authentic nomadic living. In the evening, savor a hearty dinner prepared with fresh local ingredients and unwind under the stars in this remote, peaceful environment. Driving 4-5 Hrs/ Yurt Camp (B/L/D)
Explore Around Song Kul Lake, Drive to Naryn
After breakfast, set out on a leisurely exploration around Song Kul Lake, encountering nomadic families tending to their herds. The surrounding mountains provide a stunning backdrop and we may spot yaks, marmots, and eagles soaring overhead. We’ll have plenty of opportunities to take in the breathtaking views, before we begin the drive to Naryn, a historic town located in a long, narrow valley surrounded by mountains. Settle into your accommodation and enjoy dinner, sampling more of the region's cuisine. Driving 3-4 hrs/ Guest House (B/L/D) Hiking 10 km 500m ascent 3-4 hrs
Drive from Naryn to Kel Suu Lake
After a hearty breakfast, you’ll begin your journey from Naryn to the stunningly remote Kel Suu Lake.The road climbs steadily as you ascend onto the Ak-Sai Plateau, a vast, windswept plain at an elevation of around 3,000 meters, characterized by its open, barren beauty, with rolling hills. As we continue, you’ll pass through the Kyzyl-Bel Pass, where a police checkpoint marks the border region near China to have our documents checked. Beyond the pass, the landscape becomes increasingly rugged as we descend into the Kok Kia Valley dominated by the imposing At-Bashy Mountain Range with towering, jagged peaks provide a striking backdrop for the adventure to come. Check into the yurt camp before venturing out for a short hike or optional horse ride to explore the lake's glistening shores vibrant blue waters and towering cliffs. This hidden gem is one of the most isolated and beautiful spots in Kyrgyzstan. Enjoy a traditional dinner and settle in for the night under the stars. Driving 4-5 hrs Yurt Camp (B/L/D) Optional 4 hrs hiking or 3 hrs horse ride
Hiking in the At-Bashy Valley to the shores of Kel Su
Today, embark on a challenging hike through the At-Bashy Valley. The trail takes you through lush alpine meadows and across rivers, ascending to a high-altitude pass (4000 meters). The ascent is steady, offering stunning views of the surrounding peaks and valleys. After reaching the pass, you’ll be rewarded with spectacular panoramic vistas of Kel Suu Lake. We descend from the pass to follow the lake to our campsite for the night. Set up camp and relax with a well deserved meal. Wild camp, tents (B/L/D) Hiking 17 km 700 m ascent 5.5-6.5 hrs
Exploring the Eshek-Art Pass
Today’s adventure takes you to the Esheget Pass, a historic Silk Road trade route that once connected Kashgar in China with Osh in Kyrgyzstan. The hike winds us through a long wild valley through alpine meadows,following an ancient trade route once bustling with merchants and caravans. Enjoy the stunning mountain vistas as you walk through history to cross a pass at 3800m descent to our Kok-Kiya riverside camp for a well earned rest. Wild camp, tents (B/L/D) Hiking 16 km 400m ascent 5-6 hrs
Return to Meder's Yurt Camp
Begin our descent back down the At-Bashy Valley, the jagged edges soften replaced with green hills that descend into the banks of the Kok-Kiya River. The river itself meanders gently through the valley, with crystal-clear waters sparkling in the sunlight. A final river crossing takes us to Meday's Yurt Camp, where we will be greeted by warm hospitality after days of exploration and have the chance to spot wildlife before relaxing and unwinding after a long day, reflecting on the adventure so far. Yurt camp (B/L/D) Hiking 17 km descent 200 m 4-5 hrs
Trek to a remote river valley
Prepare for a challenging trek to a remote river valley. The terrain becomes more rugged as you traverse through the mountains, we cross a pass at 3600 m with stunning views of untouched wilderness all around. Descending to join a river junction, through remote landscapes far from any roads or villages. At the end of the day, we set up camp by a peaceful riverbank, surrounded by rugged cliffs, where you can relax and stargaze under the vast night sky. Wild camp, tents (B/L/D) Hiking 17km 400m ascent 5-6 hrs
Final night in Ak-Sai Uruu Valley
Our final day of hiking zig zags to cross a high mountain pass to soak in the last of the breathtaking mountain scenery before gradually descending a long valley back to Meder's Yurt Camp through stunning vistas arriving at camp, To spend our last night in the Tuyak Boto Valley, sharing stories and reflecting on unforgettable adventures. Yurt camp (B/L/D) Hiking 14 km 600m ascent 5.5-6.5 hrs
Farewell to Meder's and Drive to Issyk Kul Lake
Say farewell to Meder and his family before embarking on a scenic drive to Issyk Kul Lake, one of the largest and deepest lakes in Central Asia. Upon arrival, you’ll have time to relax on the sandy shores of this picturesque lake, surrounded by towering mountains. Enjoy a peaceful afternoon, perhaps taking a swim or enjoying a lakeside walk before dinner. Driving 5-6 hrs Yurt camp (B/L/D)
Optional Hiking to a Panorama or relax at the lake
After breakfast, set out on a hike to a scenic viewpoint overlooking Issyk Kul Lake. The trail leads you through rolling hills and offers stunning panoramic views of the lake, with the snow-capped Tien Shan mountains in the distance. The hike takes approximately 3-4 hours, offering a perfect balance of activity and relaxation. Return to your camp in the afternoon and enjoy a final lakeside dinner. Yurt camp (B/L/D) Hiking 10 km 400m ascent 3-4 hrs
Return to Bishkek
After breakfast, begin your journey back to Bishkek, Upon arrival, you’ll have some free time to explore the city, shop for souvenirs, or simply relax. In the evening, gather with your fellow travelers for a farewell dinner, celebrating the incredible adventure you’ve shared in Kyrgyzstan. Driving 5-6 hrs Guest house (B/L/D)
Departure - Airport
After breakfast, transfer to Manas International Airport for your departure flight, carrying with you unforgettable memories of your Kyrgyz hiking adventure. (B)
🎒 What to Take
Bags:
• Day pack
• Main luggage/cargo bag
• Dry bags or plastic bags (for clothes and electronics and sleeping bag)
Hygiene:
• Wet wipes, hand sanitiser
• Compact wash kit and travel towel
• Insect repellent
• Sunblock, lip salve
Water:
• Water bottle with filter (e.g., Water-to-Go) or water purification tablets (bottled water is not always available)
• Additional 1 Ltr bottle
First Aid & Medications:
• Personal first aid kit:
Ibuprofen, paracetamol, Imodium, antihistamine, Motion sickness medication, Blister treatment, Insect repellent, Electrolytes, Feminine hygiene products, Any personal medication (inform leader of any medication you are taking)
Clothing:
• Hiking boots
• footwear for river crossings and evening camp (e.g., crocs/sandals/flip flops)
• Hiking trousers (no cotton or jeans)
• Shorts
• Short sleeve base layers
• Long sleeve shirts/base layers
• Mid layer fleece
• Waterproof jacket and trousers
• Puffer jacket
• Warm hat and gloves
• Thermal base layers (for cold conditions and to sleep in)
• Sunglasses,
• Sun hat, scarf, or buff
• Underwear
• Comfortable travel and evening wear (can be left at hotel in Bishkek)
Camping Gear
• Sleeping bag 3 season
• Mats, provided (but you can bring your own)
• Tents provided (but you can bring your own)
• Dry bags or plastic bags to store sleeping bag/kit
• Camping pillow (optional for extra comfort)
• Headlamp with extra batteries
Miscellaneous:
• Trekking Poles
• Power bank/solar charger (to charge devices)
• Trash bags (to pack out any waste)
• Energy snacks (e.g., trail mix, energy bars available locally)
• Ear plugs
• Lunch box for snacks