4-Day Tour of Song-Kul and Issyk-Kul Lakes with Cultural Insights
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About This Tour in Bishkek
Why Visit Bishkek?
Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan offers a wealth of attractions, cultural experiences, and activities for visitors. From historic landmarks to modern attractions, Bishkek provides an unforgettable travel experience with something to discover around every corner. Explore local cuisine, discover unique culture, and create lasting memories in this remarkable destination.
Getting to Bishkek
You can reach Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan by air, train, or road depending on your starting location. The city offers various transportation options including taxis, public transit, and private transfers to help you reach your destination. Many hotels can arrange airport transfers, and local transportation options vary by location.
Cancellation Policy
Additional Information
- Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
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Meeting and Pickup
Meeting Point
“Travelers who do not require pickup should meet at Please arrive 10 minutes before the scheduled start time. Look for a sign with Orient-Tours to identify your guide.”
End Point
“Travelers who do not require pickup should meet at Please arrive 10 minutes before the scheduled start time. Look for a sign with Orient-Tours to identify your guide.”
Pickup Information
Pickup Option: Pickup available or meet at start point
Pickup Time: 30 minutes before departure
Custom pickup locations may be available. Please contact the supplier for details.
Itinerary
Bishkek - Burana Tower - Orto-Tokoy - Song-Kul lake
In the morning you’ll be picked up from a hotel to start your exciting tour 2 hours
In the morning you’ll be picked up from a hotel to start your exciting tour. We’ll head towards Burana Tower to the small town of Tokmok (80km from Bishkek). Your guide will show you the mausoleums and other buildings discovered by archaeologists during excavations, you will have a chance to climb to the top of the ancient tower, where there is a beautiful view of the Chui valley and the Tien-Shan mountains open. Visit the small museum, which presents various archaeological artifacts, as well as an open-air museum, which contains ancient gravestones, rock drawings, and other interesting historical objects found on the territory of our country.
The Boom gorge is the connecting link between Chui valley and Song Kol lake 3 hours
The Boom gorge is the connecting link between Chui valley and Song Kol lake. In the gorge flows one of the largest rivers of Tien-Shan – Chu. The river broke this large and picturesque gorge among the mountains. It will be our stop for the snacks and tea at one of the restaurants. National puff cakes with soar cream and tea boiled in russian samovar with unique taste. Orto Tokoy reservoir is another picturesque place we will stop where you can enjoy the panoramic view to the first build reservoir surrounded by great dry mountains of Naryn region. This place is the only where you can witness camels in Kyrgyzstan because of the weather conditions.
After 2-3 hours driving we will finally start ascending to Song-Kol lake 5 hours
After 2-3 hours driving we will finally start ascending to Song-Kol lake. The surrounding view changes color and texture all the time: from stony dunes to green hills. Here you can meet peacefully grazing mountain yaks - majestic animals that amaze with their power. Also in the vast meadows of the pass the mountain edelweiss grows. These beautiful flowers have become a real symbol of the mountains; lyrical works are dedicated to them. From the highest point, you can see the surrounding mountain peaks and the valley, from where the ascent began. There is an opportunity to estimate the scale of the done path and is breathtaking. Further, the road leads to descent, and hiking down is greatly accelerated. Very little remains until the meeting with the Song-Kul Lake. The journey through the Kalmak-Ashuu Pass is an exciting adventure.
Around 5 PM we will finally arrive at our yurt camp in Song-Kol lake 6 hours
Around 5 PM we will finally arrive at our yurt camp in Song-Kol lake. Check in to our yurts, have some rest after long drive. Have free time before dinner, and as soon as it gets dark we will make a fire and enjoy the lake and stars.
Song Kul lake - Kochkor - Bokonbaevo
Begin your day with a gentle horseback ride... 2 hours
Begin your day with a gentle horseback ride in the morning, either up to a nearby mountain hill for spectacular views or along the tranquil shores of Song-Kol Lake. This peaceful start to the day allows you to connect with the calm beauty of the Kyrgyz landscape.
Next, you'll travel to Issyk-Kul Lake 3 hours
Next, you'll travel to Issyk-Kul Lake. On the way, you'll drive over the high Terkey Torpok Pass. This road is famous for its many tight turns and it goes very high, over 3000 meters above sea level. You'll stop for lunch in Kochkor village. Here, you can enjoy a meal with a local family or at a village restaurant, tasting traditional Kyrgyz food.
After lunch, you'll depart for Bokonbaevo village, located... 1 hour
After lunch, you'll depart for Bokonbaevo village, located on the picturesque north shore of Issyk-Kul Lake. This part of the journey will take you through more of Kyrgyzstan's stunning landscapes, providing opportunities to admire the natural beauty of the region. In Bokonbaevo village, prepare for an enthralling eagle hunting demonstration. You'll have the unique opportunity to witness skilled hunters and their magnificent eagles in action. This showcases the remarkable bond between humans and these majestic birds of prey. It's a chance to capture the ancient tradition of eagle hunting and its significance in Kyrgyz culture.
After a day filled with cultural experiences and... 8 hours
After a day filled with cultural experiences and adventures, you'll have well-deserved time to rest and relax in the comfortable Bel Tam yurt camp. It's a peaceful and tranquil setting where you can unwind and reflect on the day's activities.
Bokonbaevo - Fairly Tale Canyon - Barskoon waterall- Jeti Oguz - Karakol
Embark on an adventure of a lifetime on... 2 hours
Embark on an adventure of a lifetime on the third day of your tour and awaken your senses with a sumptuous breakfast in a traditional yurt. Get ready to marvel at the enchanting beauty of Kyrgyzstan as we drive towards Skazka Canyon. The canyon is a fairy tale land of majestic rock formations and sculptures carved by nature's winds. Get ready to be awestruck by the surreal landscape, with rocks resembling the Great Wall of China, mythical creatures, and even entire castles! The colors of the rocks are just as spellbinding, with hues ranging from rich reds to muted grays.
Next, we venture into the heart of the... 2 hours
Next, we venture into the heart of the Barskoon Valley, surrounded by towering mountains, cascading waterfalls, and lush spruce forests. Get up close and personal with the awe-inspiring chain of Barskoon waterfalls, with three waterfalls to choose from depending on your preference. Take in the breathtaking views and let the sound of the gushing water soothe your soul.
Get ready for a journey through history as... 2 minutes
Get ready for a journey through history as we visit Jeti-Oguz Canyon, known for its stunning sandstone formations shaped like seven bulls and the "broken heart." This famous landmark has inspired countless poems, paintings, and music videos and is a must-visit for any traveler to Kyrgyzstan. After a day filled with wonder and adventure, unwind in the comfort of natural hot springs surrounded by stunning mountain scenery. Recharge your batteries and enjoy a delightful dinner at a top-rated restaurant before retiring for the night in a 3-star hotel. With so much to see and experience, this day promises to be an unforgettable adventure that will stay with you forever!
Karakol - Semenov/Grigoriev Gorges - Cholpon Ata - Bishkek
Embark on a journey through the heart of... 2 hours
Embark on a journey through the heart of Karakol and uncover the town's rich history and vibrant culture. Your knowledgeable English-speaking guide will take you on a tour of the most interesting and lesser-known sites, including the charming Dungan Mosque, the striking Russian Orthodox Church, and the bustling Bugu Bazaar. As you explore the streets and markets, you'll hear the fascinating stories and legends of Karakol, gaining a unique insight into the daily life of the town.
Next, escape to the stunning Grigoriev & Semenov... 2 hours
Next, escape to the stunning Grigoriev & Semenov Gorges and immerse yourself in the beauty of the Tien-Shan mountains. As you wander the slopes blanketed in red poppies and listen to the soothing sounds of mountain streams, you'll have the opportunity to taste traditional Kyrgyz cuisine in a cozy yurt. Horse lovers can even take a leisurely ride on horseback, soaking in the breathtaking landscape. Afterwards, we will continue through the Grigoriev Gorge to the Semenovskaye Gorge, surrounded by lush spruce forests and fragrant herbs.
Get ready for a truly awe-inspiring experience as... 2 hours
Get ready for a truly awe-inspiring experience as we set sail on the world-renowned Issyk-Kul Lake, the second largest alpine lake on the planet. Surrounded by towering peaks of the Tian Shan Mountains, you'll be enchanted by the clear and cool waters, perfect for a refreshing swim. Take in the stunning scenery, and capture memories to last a lifetime.
Before reaching Bishkek, we visit the Ruh Ordo... 1 hour
Before reaching Bishkek, we visit the Ruh Ordo Cultural Complex, a testament to Kyrgyzstan’s diverse spiritual heritage, and explore ancient Petroglyphs, offering a glimpse into the lives of the region's early inhabitants. Finally, we conclude our journey in Bishkek, ensuring a smooth drop-off at your hotel, where you can unwind and reflect on the remarkable adventure and the seamless blend of nature, culture, and history experienced over these four days.
We’re on our way back to Bishkek 4 hours
We’re on our way back to Bishkek.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cancellation policy?
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
How do I book this tour?
Click the "Book Now" button on this page to complete your reservation through Viator's secure booking platform. You'll receive instant confirmation via email.
Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Please check the age requirements and physical fitness level requirements listed in the tour details above. Some tours may have age restrictions or require a certain level of physical fitness.
