Duration: 10 days
The Wild Heart of Kyrgyzstan
Location:Issyk-kol
Activity Level: Medium To High
Group size: 6-8 pax
Book your trip
By signing up, you agree to our Privacy Policy
“
This is not just a tour—it’s the result of years of exploration. Every trail has been tested, every detail carefully planned. This route is wild, remote, and almost untouched, known only to local rangers.
Getting here isn’t easy—it takes expert logistics and off-road vehicles to reach these hidden landscapes. But that’s what makes it special.
Most importantly, safety comes first. Every step is designed for a secure yet unforgettable adventure.
This is more than a trip. It’s a true expedition. Are you ready?
Getting here isn’t easy—it takes expert logistics and off-road vehicles to reach these hidden landscapes. But that’s what makes it special.
Most importantly, safety comes first. Every step is designed for a secure yet unforgettable adventure.
This is more than a trip. It’s a true expedition. Are you ready?
DATES
1 - 10 MAY
1 -10 OCTOBER
1 -10 OCTOBER
Discover the raw beauty of Kyrgyzstan on this 10-day journey through its most remote and stunning landscapes. The tour includes a unique horseback riding expedition to a mountain lake, nestled deep in the heart of the Tien Shan mountains. As you trek through rugged valleys and alpine meadows, you'll have the chance to witness the region's diverse wildlife, including ibex, marmots, and golden eagles. Along the way, stay in traditional guesthouses and campsites under the stars, immersing yourself in the peaceful solitude of the Kyrgyz wilderness. This adventure is a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural experiences, and wildlife exploration, offering a truly unforgettable escape.
Tour Highlights
- 4-Day Horseback AdventureRide through wild mountain trails and cross rivers.
- Wildlife EncountersSpot ibex, snow leopards, wolves, and bears.
- Nomadic ExperienceStay in a remote shepherd houses and meet with locals
- Off-Road ExpeditionsTravel by 4x4 to hidden landscapes.
- Epic ViewsCapture stunning landscapes and wildlife.
- Shepherd’s DinnerExperience a traditional meal where locals prepare lamb in an authentic way.
PROGRAM
Arrive in the capital before lunchtime and check into your hotel. Enjoy free time and a guided city tour to discover the vibrant culture of Bishkek. End your day with a warm welcome dinner.
Stay at hotel
Stay at hotel
Start your journey with a scenic 6-hour transfer from Bishkek to Karakol along the north shore of Issyk-Kul Lake. Upon arrival, take time to prepare for your upcoming adventure into the remote areas.
Stay at hotel
Stay at hotel
Drive 4 hours to an abandoned Soviet town in a remote area via a high pass at 3822 m with stops along the way. During the journey, Kyrgyz soldiers will check our border permits and passports. Upon arrival, stay at a local family’s house, explore the abandoned town, and observe remnants of Soviet heritage. In the afternoon, visit a wild hot spring before dinner.
Stay at local family
Stay at local family
In the morning, begin a 20 km horse riding journey through a breathtaking valley. Along the way, cross the river multiple times—though in May, the water remains shallow. The landscapes will remind you of Canada or Alaska, with towering peaks and vast wilderness. This valley is home to bears, mountain goats, and even the elusive snow leopard, offering a truly wild and unforgettable experience.
Stay at tent (3000m)
Stay at tent (3000m)
Today, ride through a small high pass into one of the most wild and untouched parts of the country. Before sunset we will reach a stunning alpine lake at 3000m, surrounded by dramatic mountain landscapes. The journey will cover 18-20 km on horseback, offering breathtaking views along the way. End the day with a delicious dinner by the lake, enjoying the serenity of this remote paradise.
Stay at tent (3000m)
Stay at tent (3000m)
After breakfast and a peaceful morning by the lake, begin the horseback journey back. The trail will take you gradually uphill, with some steeper sections along the way. Enjoy the stunning mountain views as you retrace your path through the remote wilderness. By evening, arrive at the same campsite as the previous night and rest under the stars.
Stay at tent (3000m)
Stay at tent (3000m)
Ride back through Terekty Valley towards the abandoned Soviet town, passing through breathtaking landscapes one last time. Before dinner, unwind at a wild hot spring, where you can relax and soak in the natural warmth. In the evening, enjoy a home-cooked meal, take a refreshing shower, and rest in the comfort of a local family’s house with nice facilities.
Stay at local family
Stay at local family
Today, travel by cars to one of the most breathtaking valleys in Kyrgyzstan - Sary-Jaz valley, offering panoramic views of snow-covered 5000m peaks. If the sky is clear, you’ll also catch a glimpse of the legendary Khan Tengri (7000m).
Upon arrival at a cozy shepherd’s house, experience true Kyrgyz hospitality. As part of a cultural experience, the shepherds will prepare a traditional dish, starting with the ritual of slaughtering a small sheep, a deep-rooted local tradition.
For accommodation, you can choose to stay in the shepherd’s house or in a tent under the stars.
Stay at shepherd house
Upon arrival at a cozy shepherd’s house, experience true Kyrgyz hospitality. As part of a cultural experience, the shepherds will prepare a traditional dish, starting with the ritual of slaughtering a small sheep, a deep-rooted local tradition.
For accommodation, you can choose to stay in the shepherd’s house or in a tent under the stars.
Stay at shepherd house
Drive 4 hours back to Karakol, passing through scenic landscapes along the way. Upon arrival, check in to your hotel and enjoy a well-deserved rest before dinner. Take time to relax or explore the town at your own pace.
Stay at hotel
Stay at hotel
Travel back to Bishkek along the scenic south shore of Issyk-Kul Lake. Along the way, visit Aksay Canyon, meet a local eagle hunter, and take in the stunning views of Issyk-Kul Lake. Upon arrival in the capital, check in to your hotel and enjoy a final farewell dinner, celebrating the unforgettable journey.
Stay at hotel
Transfer to airport by the morning 11th of may
Stay at hotel
Transfer to airport by the morning 11th of may
PRICE
2000 € per person
What included
- Transfers
- Guide
- Meal 3 times in a day
- Accommodation (twin) for single room + 250€
- All camping equipments
(tents, mats, sleeping bag) - Horses with horse guides
- Border permits
- SIM card with internet
- Traditional Lamb Preparation
- Fee for national park
Not included
- Flights and visa
- Insurance
Recomendation
-
Passport and necessary travel documents (visa, if required) - Travel insurance (optional)
- Lightweight, breathable clothing suitable for layering (considering varying temperatures)
- Sturdy hiking boots or trekking shoes
- Waterproof jacket and pants
- Warm layers for cooler evenings and higher altitudes
- Sun protection (sunscreen, sunglasses, wide-brimmed hat)
- Personal toiletries and medications
- Reusable water bottle and water purification tablets or filter
- Portable power bank for charging electronic devices
- Camera or smartphone for capturing the stunning landscapes
- First aid kit
- Own sleeping bag, sleeping pad (optional)
- Trekking poles for added stability on trails
- Backpack around 50-60L
FAQ
May was chosen as the ideal time for this tour for several reasons. In summer (June to September), river levels rise significantly, making crossings much more difficult, especially for those without experience. Since we will be crossing rivers 3-4 times in one direction, early May provides safer and easier conditions. Additionally, the weather is comfortable, neither too hot nor too cold. Another advantage is the chance to see a variety of wildlife, including mountain ibex, snow leopards, wolves, bears, and many other animals in their natural habitat.
Yes, this tour is suitable for beginners. We will provide calm and well-trained horses, making it easier for first-time riders. However, having some prior experience is always helpful to feel more comfortable during the ride. Our guides will also provide basic riding instructions before we start.
We will have a cook traveling with us who will prepare fresh meals every day. The menu includes a variety of local and international dishes. If you are vegan or have specific dietary preferences, we can accommodate that—just let us know in advance.
Cell phone coverage is limited or unavailable in most remote areas of the tour. You will be off the grid for most of the journey, allowing you to fully disconnect and enjoy nature. However, in some locations, there might be weak signals depending on your mobile provider.
To book the tour, you need to make a deposit, provide a copy of your passport, and book your flight ticket. Once we receive the deposit and your details, we will confirm your spot in the group.
Rest of the payment you need to do with cash on arrival
Rest of the payment you need to do with cash on arrival
We will use different types of vehicles depending on the terrain. For traveling between cities, we will use a comfortable minibus. In remote and off-road areas, we will switch to 4x4 vehicles such as Toyota Land Cruiser and Toyota 4Runner to ensure a safe and smooth journey through the rugged landscapes.
In early May, the weather will be quite mild since it's almost the end of spring. During the day, temperatures will be around +11°C, while at night, they can drop to +3 to 0°C. There won’t be any snow in the areas we visit, but evenings can get chilly. A warm jacket is essential, especially for nights in the mountains.
If you need to cancel your booking, the following refund rules apply:
- More than 30 days before the tour – Full refund (minus transaction fees).
- 15-29 days before the tour – 50% refund.
- 7-14 days before the tour – 30% refund.
- Less than 7 days before the tour – No refund.