Discover Issyk-Kul and Song-Kul Lakes 2026

OVERVIEW

This comprehensive Kyrgyzstan tour offers a perfect balance of ancient history, dramatic alpine landscapes, and authentic nomadic traditions. Starting from the capital city of Bishkek, the journey follows the legendary Great Silk Road, beginning with a visit to the 11th-century Burana Tower and the lush Chon-Kemin Valley. Travelers will explore the northern and southern shores of Issyk-Kul, the world’s second-largest alpine lake, discovering the petroglyphs of Cholpon-Ata, the hidden Suttuu Bulak Lake within Semenov Gorge, and the rugged beauty of Karakol.

The adventure reaches new heights with a rugged 4×4 expedition in a Soviet-era UAZ to the high-altitude Altyn-Arashan hot springs, where you can soak in thermal waters beneath the towering Peak Palatka (5,260m). The itinerary continues through the surreal red rock formations of Jeti-Oguz (Seven Bulls) and Skazka (Fairy Tale) Canyon, followed by a deep dive into Kyrgyz heritage with a traditional eagle hunting demonstration in Bokonbaevo. The final highlight is the pristine Song-Kul Lake, where you will experience the true shepherd’s lifestyle staying in a traditional yurt camp at 3,000 meters, before crossing the scenic Kalmak-Ashuu Pass back to Bishkek.

This itinerary is specifically designed for travelers seeking authentic cultural immersion. By staying in yurts and homestays, you directly support local communities while experiencing the same landscapes traversed by Silk Road merchants centuries ago.

TRIP ESSENTIALS

Tour Type: auto

Total Duration:  6 days

Best Season:  June – August

Level of Difficulty:  easy

Maximum Altitude on the Trip:  3 400 meters ASL

Start and End Point:  Bishkek

Transport: jeep/minivan/minibus depending on the size of the group

Best group size:  4- 12 persons

TRIP ITINERARY

Bishkek – Burana tower – Chong Kemin – Karakol – Altyn-Arashan – Jeti-Oguz gorge – Barskoon Waterfall – Skazka canyons – Bokonbaevo village – Song-Kol lake – Bishkek

Day 1

Bishkek – Chong-Kemin 

This day drive to Chong-Kemin Valley. Visit the Burana Tower architectural complex (10^th-11^th century, an important point on the Great Silk Road) on the way (15 km from the main road, 1 hour). Upon arrival to Chong-Kemin have lunch at home stay.  Accommodation in a local guesthouse. Optional: horse riding or walk around the village.

Transfer time: 3-4 hours

Burana visit: 1 hour

Optional in Chong-Kemin: horse riding

Day 2

Chong-Kemin – Karakol

Morning transfer to Karakol by northern lake shore of Issyk-Kul lake, on the way make a stop to visit Burana tower, architectural complex of 10-11 century, important point on the Great Silk Road.  Then make a stop to visit open-air museum in Cholpon-Ata and have a lunch. Continue your way to Karakol and visit on your way Semenov Gorge and Suttuu Bulak Lake (if it is open). Dinner at café, B&B at guest house.

Transfer time: 5-6 hours

Petroglyphs visit: 1 hours

Day 3

Karakol – Ak-Suu – Altyn-Arashan

Morning after breakfast transfer from Karakol town to Ak-Suu. Transfer further by the UAZ Soviet car. At the Altyn-Arashan resort is possible to take a thermal water bath. You will never be able to forget the sight of the snow on Peak Palatka (Tent) 5260 m or “Swallow’s Nest Pool”, nestling beneath the open sky. Spend day enjoying the gorge. Dinner and accommodation at yurt camp.

Transfer time: 2-3 hours

Day 4

Karakol – Bokonbaevo

Morning drive back to Karakol. Make a stop for a lunch in city and lead to Bokonbaevo village, on the way we will make several stops, 1st stop will be at Jety-Oguz gorge (Seven bulls gorge). 2nd stop will be at Barskoon waterfall and last stop Skazka Canyons (Fairy Tale canyons). Dinner and B&B will be at yurt camp.

Transfer time: 3 hours

Visit to Skazka Canyon: 1 hour

Day 5

Bokonbaevo – Song-Kul Lake

After breakfast, head to the Ak-Sai canyons, then visit the golden eagle demonstration, and have lunch with a Kyrgyz family. After lunch, transfer to Son-Kol Lake. Dinner and spend the night in a traditional yurt camp.

Transfer time: 5-6 hours

Visit to Ak-Say Canyon: 1 hour

Day 6

Song-Kul Lake – Kalmak-Ashuu pass – Bishkek

Morning drive to Bishkek. Lunch on the way. On our journey, we will have the opportunity to visit the beautiful Kok Moynok canyon. Upon arrival, hotel accommodation.

Transfer time: 5-6 hours

Visit to Kok Moynok Canyon: 1 hour

DATES & PRICING 2026

Looking for different dates? Private departures are available on your preferred dates. Inquire now to book your private tour at travel@visitkyrgyzstan.kg