BEST OF ISSYK
KUL & BEYOND
Season: May-October
2026
Main information
  • From $1250
    Price per person
  • 6 DAYS
    By car and hiking during the tour
  • Tour type
    Cultural,
    adventure, hiking T
  • (170) kilometres
    Distance of the itinerary
  • Beginner
    Level of difficulty - for beginners
  • Bishkek city
    Start and end of the tour
What awaits you on this tRIr
Join us on an unforgettable journey through the heart of Kyrgyzstan, where ancient history, dramatic mountain landscapes, alpine valleys, and vibrant local culture come together in one immersive adventure. This tour takes you from the lively streets of Bishkek to the serene beauty of Issyk-Kul, the towering peaks of Altyn Arashan and Jeti Oguz rock formations. 
Experience breathtaking nature, visit centuries-old landmarks, explore colorful bazaars, and discover the very best this region has to offer.
Day 1: Arrival in Bishkek – Ala-Archa National Park (Half-Day Tour)
Upon arrival at the airport, you will be transferred to your hotel in Bishkek (40 minutes). Early check-in, time to rest, and breakfast at the hotel.
In the afternoon, depart for a half-day tour to Ala-Archa National Park (1-hour drive). Enjoy scenic mountain views, fresh air, and light walking in the gorge.
Return to Bishkek for an overnight stay.
Accommodation: Hotel in Bishkek
Meals: Breakfast 
Day 2: Bishkek – Burana Tower – Chong Kemin National Park
After breakfast, depart from Bishkek and drive approximately 150km to Chong Kemin National Park.
On the way, stop at Burana Tower, an ancient minaret dating back to the 10-11th century , a remarkable monument of the Silk Road.
Continue to Chong Kemin National Park, enjoy the scenic valley, peaceful nature, and mountain landscapes.
Overnight stay in local guest house . 
Accommodation: Guesthouse in Chong Kemin
Meals: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner
190km , 3-3,5 hours drive
Day 3: Chong Kemin – Karakol (Northern Issyk-Kul Route)
After breakfast, depart from Chong Kemin and drive toward Karakol, traveling approximately 350 km along the northern shore of Issyk-Kul Lake.
Along the way, visit the Rukh Ordo Open Air Museum, showcasing traditional Kyrgyz architecture and culture.
Enjoy scenic views of Issyk-Kul — the world’s second-largest alpine lake, known for its crystal-clear water and dramatic mountain backdrop.
Arrive in Karakol and check in to a guesthouse.
Accommodation: Guesthouse in Karakol
Meals: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner 
290km , 4-4,5 hours drive 
Day 4: Karakol – Altyn Arashan Valley
Early breakfast, depart from Karakol to Altyn Arashan Valley, driving approximately 20 km by a classic Soviet UAZ vehicle, designed for mountain terrain . 
Enjoy the beautiful alpine scenery, dense forests, crystal-clear streams, and natural hot springs that make Altyn Arashan one of Kyrgyzstan’s most charming mountain valleys.
Accommodation: Guesthouse in Altyn Arashan
Meals: Breakfast, lunch box , dinner 
20km – 1,5 hours drive  
Day 5: Altyn Arashan – Karakol – Jeti-Oguz – Fairy Tale Canyon – Bokonbaevo Village
After breakfast, depart from Altyn Arashan and drive approximately 20 km back to Karakol.
Continue to Jeti-Oguz Gorge, located about 30 km from Karakol, famous for its striking red rock formations and scenic mountain views.
Next, visit the Fairy Tale Canyon, known for its colorful, sculpted cliffs and unique natural shapes.
Proceed to Bokonbayev Village, where you will stay overnight in a traditional yurt camp.
Accommodation: Yurt Camp 
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch , Dinner 
210km , 4-4,5 hours drive 
Day 6: Bokonbayevo – Bishkek – City tour & Osh market
Experience a traditional Eagle Hunting Show, where skilled Kyrgyz hunters demonstrate the ancient art of falconry with majestic golden eagles.( optional activity) 
Depart from Bokonbaevo in the morning and drive to Bishkek.
Upon arrival, enjoy a short city tour of Bishkek, exploring its main streets, parks, and landmarks.
Visit Osh Bazaar, one of the largest and most vibrant markets in the city, offering local food, souvenirs, and traditional products.
End of tour . 
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: — (end of tour or optional)
300km , 5-6 hours drive 
Cost of tour
2 pax – 1750$ per person
English speaking driver/ guide)

3 pax – 1450$
English speaking driver/ guide – 1 person

4 pax – 1410$
English speaking driver/ guide – 1 person

5 pax – 1290$
( with guide )

6 pax and more – 1250$
( with guide )
Tour price includes
  • Accommodation in hotels, guesthouses, and yurt camps (twin occupancy)
  • Full board meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner as per itinerary)
  • Comfortable transportation throughout the tour
  • English-speaking driver / guide during the entire tour ( separate guide from 5 pax ) 
  • Entrance fees to all included attractions 
  • All transfers according to the itinerary
  • Water ( 1 litre per day ) 
  • Early check in on day 1


What’s Not Included
  • International flights
  • Horseback riding tour (optional, paid locally)
  • Eagle hunting show ( optional )
  • Night on day 7
  • Meals not mentioned in program 
  • Personal expenses 
  • Travel insurance
  • Tips for guides and drivers 
WHAT TO BRING?
  • Comfortable clothes (Layers)
    Breathable, flexible clothing that can be layered to adjust easily to changing temperatures and weather conditions throughout the day.
  • Trekking shoes / sneakers
    Sturdy, comfortable footwear with good grip and support, ideal for walking on uneven terrain and long hours on your feet.
  • Warm jacket
    A lightweight but insulating jacket to keep you warm in cooler temperatures, wind, or early morning and evening conditions..
  • Hat + sunglasses
    Sun-protective accessories to shield your face and eyes from strong sunlight and reduce glare during outdoor activities.
  • Sunscreen
    High-SPF sun protection to prevent sunburn and skin damage during prolonged outdoor exposure.
  • Personal meds
    Any personal medications you require, including essentials for allergies, chronic conditions, or motion sickness.
  • Power bank
    A portable charger to keep your phone or devices powered throughout the day for photos, navigation, or emergencies.
  • Water bottle
    A reusable bottle to stay hydrated during the trip, especially during physical activity and warm weather.