From 1020€ / person
6 days
Kyrgyzstan natural beauty and nomad culture
Central Asia's geography is often not well known and is referred to as the Stans countries. Kyrgyzstan, which was part of the USSR in the 20th century is one of them, and one of the most accessible to visitors. This small country offers a great diversity in terms of landscapes with all its magnificent mountains, peaks, lakes, grasslands and rivers. For those interested in nomadic life, meeting the Kyrgyz shepherds will be an amazing experience. Visit Kyrgyzstan and dive in its open grasslands and nomadic culture!
History
Kyrgyzstan was once a nomadic land with a clanic organization, and a few towns in the valleys used as welcomed stops on the Silk Road. These small communities that often lived far away from each other, separated by summits and rivers, entered the big history frame when the country was integrated into the USSR. Kyrgyzstan then started using the Russian alphabet and adapting it to Kyrgyz language, Soviet buildings were erected in the biggest cities, and even far remote shepherd families were organized into collective farms called kolkhozes. Maybe you'll get the chance to see their remains, in ruins in the middle of the mountains...
Itinerary
After a short sightseeing in Bishkek, the capital city, you'll visit Kyrgyzstan and reach the large Issyk Kul lake. Enjoy its natural beauty and discover some historical remains. From easy hikes to cultural visits, you'll reach Karakol on the other side of the lake and come back to Bishkek. Finish your trip in the beautiful Ala Archa national park close the capital.
Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Bishkek
Today you’ll fly to Bishkek. Upon arrival your driver will bring you to your hotel for the check in.
This afternoon sightseeing of Bishkek with the visits of the museum of fine arts and the National museum. Bishkek has the best preserved Soviet Union architecture in all of the -stans countries.
Day 2: Bishkek – Issyk Kul Lake ~260 km (B, L)
After your breakfast transfer to Issyk Kul Lake – the pearl of Kyrgyzstan. En route visit Burana Tower. You’ll have lunch at a Kyrgyz family in Tokman town then keep on driving to Issyk Kul valley through the Boom Canyon.
You will visit petroglyphs of Paleolithic era and the local museum in Cholpon Ata.
Overnight at hotel close to Issyk Kul Lake.
Day 3: Issyk Kul – Cholpon Ata – Grigorevka Gorge – Karakol (B)
This morning transfer to Grigorevka gorge full of lush green Alpine meadows and fir trees, for an easy hike in the gorge. Then you will visit N.M Przhevalski museum , the Russian explorer of the Asian continent. You will then reach Karakol town and start a tour of the city, visiting the Dungan Mosque and Karakol’s cathedral.
Day 4: Karakol – Bishkek (B) ~400km
Today you will drive to Bishkek. On the way you’ll stop on the southern shore of Issyk Kul lake at Skazka canyon (also known as Fairy Tale canyon) to go hiking.
Day 5: Bishkek – Ala Archa – Bishkek (B) ~40 km
After breakfast you will drive to Ala Archa National Natural Park located in the picturesque gorge of Ala Archa. On the way to the park you’ll make a short stop at the traditional Kyrgyz cemetery and go for an excursion to the Gumbez (mausoleum) of Baitik Baatyr, the local respected tribal leader. You can then trek up the Ak Sai gorge to enjoy views on the magnificent peaks of the Kyrgyz Alatau Ridge (Tien Shan Mountains). In the afternoon you’ll go back to Bishkek
Day 6: Bishkek Departure (B)
Today is time to say goodbye, your driver will bring you to the airport for a flight to your next destination.
Information
Inclusions:
- Hotels with breakfast (B)
- Yurt camp in Cholpon Ata with breakfast (B)
- Lunch (L) when mentioned
- Private driver
- English speaking guide
- Entrance fees
Exclusions:
- Visa
- International & domestic flights
- Meals
- Personal expenses
- Tips to guide and driver
- Insurances
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