Day 4 — Explore Kaindy and Kolsai Lakes
We’ll start the day with a short drive to Kaindy Lake (Kazakhstan’s Kolsai Lakes National Park). Situated among magnificent pine forest at an altitude of 2000m, it’s renowned for it’s unique appearance. An earthquake triggered a landslide that led to the flooding of a forest. Submerged trees now rise eerily above the water’s surface, creating a stunning and surreal landscape. We’ll have our lunch here before heading to Kolsai Lakes. The lakes consist of 3 alpine lakes boasting emerald waters surrounded by the snowcapped TianShan Mountains. We’ll take short hikes to the lakes before heading back to Saty Village for the night.
Accoms: Guesthouse
Meals: B, L, D
Day 5 — Saty Village – Boarder Crossing – Karakol, Kyrgyzstan
Say goodbye to the beautiful Kazakhstan as we head into Kyrgyzstan today! Enroute, we’ll stop for a picnic lunch at the scenic valley of Karkyra. Upon arrival, we’ll visit the Dungan Mosque, where we’ll learn more about the community’s history and culture.
Accoms: Hotel
Meals: B, L
Day 6 — Karakol – Kok Jaiyk Valley – Jety Oguz
The day starts with a short 1 hour drive to our next destination on the trip. Upon settling in our yurt camp, we’ll start the hike up along the Jety Oguz River to the panoramic viewpoint of Oguz Bashy Peak, located in the heart of the Tian-Shan Mountain Range. As we ascend, we’ll be treated to increasingly stunning views of the surrounding mountain peaks. Enjoy picnic lunch at the viewpoint! Hike back down to our yurts and enjoy the rest of the day with our nomad host.
Accoms: Yurt Camp
Meals: B, L, D
Day 7 — Kok Jaiyk – Bokonbaevo
After breakfast, we’ll drive to Bokonbaevo village, stopping at Skazka Canyon enroute. Known for its unique rock formations and vibrant colours, Skazka offers stunning views of Lake Issyk-Kul and the Tian Shan Mountains, making it one of Kyrgyzstan’s highlights.
Located next to Issyk-Kul Lake, Bokonbaevo village — rich in culture heritage and customs — will be where our yurt camp is for the night. We’ll visit a local musician’s family to experience traditional Kyrgyz music and instruments. After lunch, we’ll get to observe an eagle hunting demonstration, an ancient practice passed down generations! And before the day ends, swim in the clear waters of Issyk-Kul, Kyrgyzstan’s largest lake, or just take a short walk along the banks and soak in the vastness of the landscape.
Accoms: Yurt camp
Meals: B, L, D
Day 8 — Bokonbaevo – Song Kul Lake (3016m)
As we leave Bokonbaevo, we’ll drive along winding roads that hug the southern shore of Issyk-Kul Lake, offering stunning views of the shimmering water and surrounding mountains. As we climb higher in altitude, the scenery shifts to expansive pastures and panoramic views. The serene blue waters of Song Kul Lake come into view, set against a backdrop of towering mountains. We’ll have lunch at our yurt camp, and will have the afternoon free to explore the beautiful area. Sample fresh airan (yogurt) and kumis (Kyrgyz’s national drink of fermented mare’s milk).
Accoms: Yurt camp
Meals: B, L, D
Day 9 — Song Kul Lake
We’ll set off on a 4-hour horseback ride through the scenic mountains at Song Kul Lake. Our journey leads us up to a mountain pass at 3,500m, where we can admire that panoramic view of the lake and surrounding peaks. The afternoon will be yours to relax, and hang out. Talk to the locals, play their games, or even go for a swim!
Accoms: Yurt camp
Meals: B, L, D
Day 10 — Song Kul Lake – Bishkek
Enjoy your last traditional breakfast in a yurt. We’ll make the 5-hour drive back to Bishkek today. Catch a few ZZZs, or watch the stunning scenery fly by. You’ll have the afternoon to explore this vibrant city, before we meet up for our final team dinner at night!
Accoms: Hotel
Meals: B, L, D
Day 11 — Fly Home
This marks the end of the exciting adventure to Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan. Catch your flight and make your way back to SG. (Or stay for an extra few days – up to you!)
Accoms: N/A
Meals: B
The Travel Intern leading a tour