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Authentic Kyrgyzstan: Song-Kol & Karakol Road Trip

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  • 5 days
  • Road Trip
  • June-September

Introduction

Set off on a 5-day adventure through Kyrgyzstan’s most captivating sights. Explore the historic Burana Tower, immerse yourself in nomadic life at Song-Kol Lake, and witness the ancient tradition of eagle hunting in Bokonbaevo. Discover the natural wonders of Fairytale Canyon, Barskoon Waterfall, and Djeti Oguz Valley. Relax in the hot springs of Altyn Arashan before returning to Bishkek, where your journey ends with unforgettable memories of Kyrgyzstan’s beauty and culture.

Duration: 5 days

Tour category: Road Trip

Best season: June-September

Group Size: 4-6 pax

Accommodation: one night in the yurts, three nights in the guesthouses

Highlights: Burana, Son-Kol Lake, Skazka canyon, Barskoon, Jeti-Oguz, Altyn Arashan

Requirements: Waterproof warm clothes, hat, sunglasses and sunscreen

Price Includes

  • Transportation: 4WD SUV/minibus depending on the size of the group
  • English speaking tour guide
  • Full board meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner)
  • Accommodation double & triple rooms 4 nights
  • Eagle hunting show & archery
  • All entrance fees
  • Off-road vehicle to Altyn Arashan

Price Excludes

  • Hotel in Bishkek
  • SNG supplement for accommodation
  • Activities outside of the program

Itinerary

Day 1. Bishkek-Burana-Song Kol Lake

Drive 302 km-5 h

Depart early from Bishkek and drive to Burana Tower to explore its historical ruins and minaret, a key Silk Road landmark. Afterward, continue your journey through the scenic Kalmak-Ashuu Pass, where you’ll enjoy sweeping views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Arriving at Song-Kol Lake, settle into a yurt camp by the lakeside. Spend the afternoon exploring the area, interacting with local nomadic shepherds, and experiencing their way of life. After a traditional Kyrgyz dinner, relax under the stars and enjoy an overnight stay in the yurt, fully immersed in the tranquility of the high-altitude lake

Day 2. Song Kol-Bokonbaevo

Drive 230 km-4 h

Start your day by leaving Song-Kol Lake in the morning, taking in the serene beauty of the high-altitude landscape. Enjoy a peaceful walk along the lake’s shores or take in the panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. After lunch, drive to Bokonbaevo, a town by Issyk-Kul Lake. In the evening, attend an eagle hunting demonstration, where skilled falconers will showcase the ancient Kyrgyz tradition of hunting with golden eagles. After this captivating experience, enjoy a delicious Kyrgyz dinner before resting for the night

Day 3. Bokonabevo-Skazka canyon-Barskoon-Djeti Oguz-Karakol

Drive 180 km-4 h

Start your day in Bokonbaevo and drive to Fairytale Canyon, known for its striking red and orange sandstone formations. Wander along the winding paths and take in the surreal landscape. Then, continue to Barskoon, where you’ll have the opportunity to hike to the beautiful Barskoon Waterfall. Afterward, visit Djeti Oguz, famous for the Seven Bulls rock formation. This peaceful valley is perfect for a short hike or just relaxing by the river. In the evening, you’ll arrive in Karakol, where you’ll enjoy a delicious traditional Kyrgyz dinner.

Day 4. Karakol-Altyn Arashan-Karakol

Drive 60 km-3 h

Leave Karakol and head to Altyn Arashan, a beautiful valley known for its natural hot springs and stunning mountain views. The drive takes about 1.5 to 2 hours, passing through the Tian Shan mountains and along the Ak-Suu River. Once in Altyn Arashan, relax in the hot springs, surrounded by meadows and peaks. You can also take a short hike to explore the area further. After a relaxing soak, enjoy a light lunch or picnic before returning to Karakol. The journey back takes another 1.5 to 2 hours. In Karakol, end your day with a delicious dinner and check into your accommodation for the night.

Day 5. Karakol-Bishkek

Drive 420 km-6-7 h

After breakfast, head to the weekly animal market in Karakol, where you can experience the vibrant atmosphere and local culture. Spend some time exploring the market before starting your journey to Bishkek. On the way, stop for a lunch break at a local cafe or street food stalls, where you can taste some of the region’s specialties. Continue the drive, enjoying the scenic views along the way. Arrive in Bishkek in the late afternoon, marking the end of your tour.

Departure time : 9 AM

Return time: 18 PM

Dates (2025) Availability Price
May 20 — May 24 Available $500
May 28 — June 1 Available $500
June 4 — June 8 Available $500
June 11 — June 15 Available $500
June 18 — June 22 Available $500
June 25 — June 29 Available $500
July 2 — July 6 Available $500
July 9 — July 13 Available $500
July 16 — July 20 Available $500
July 23 — July 27 Available $500
July 30 — August 3 Available $500
August 6 — August 10 Available $500
August 13 — August 17 Available $500
August 20 — August 24 Available $500
August 27 — August 31 Available $500
September 3 — September 7 Available $500
September 10 — September 14 Available $500
September 17 — September 21 Available $500
September 24 — September 28 Available $500

FAQ

How can I book any tour?

When you decide which program suits you, we recommend that you contact us by filling out a short form on the tour description page, or write to us about your wishes at our email address kyrgyzlandscapes@gmail.com Our program manager will contact you or accept a pre-order

What is included in the tour price?

All necessary transport and transportation, accommodation, all necessary equipment, meals as indicated in the program description, all necessary passes, etc. Explore our exciting destinations! All details are listed on the specific tour description page under the heading «Tour includes».

What is not included in the tour price?

The price does not include plane, train or intercity bus tickets, other transportation and transportation services other than those specified in the program, tips for staff or other expenses not included in the program

What form of payment do you accept?

Usually our clients pay in cash upon arrival at our place, but payment by bank transfer is also possible

Are there any changes to the program?

In the event of an unforeseen situation, when some service cannot be implemented or changes in the route occur for reasons beyond the control of our company, we will make an alternative version of our program that is not inferior to the previous one

What to pack?

Your packlist will depend on your planned itinerary, activities, and length of stay.  Here are some things people often find helpful:

•Thermal underwear

•Lightweight warm clothes for «layering»

•Rain/windproof jacket with a hood

•Waterproof boots/walking shoes

•Slip on shoes/sandals

•«Beanie» hat

•Hat with a brim

•Sunglasses with UV protection

•Sunscreen with high SPF

•First aid kit

•Flashlight/ headlamp and spare batteries

•Insect repellent— There is a mosquito season in the mountains, and some lower regions may have ticks.

•Russian-English/English-Russian dictionary

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