Kyrgyzstan Backpacking Tour

Day 1: Arrival in Bishkek & Drive to Song Kul

• Arrival in Bishkek: Once you land, head straight to Song Kul Lake.
• Stop at Burana Tower: Visit this 11th-century monument and learn about the region’s history.
• Reach Song Kul Lake: Arrive in the evening and settle in at a traditional yurt camp by the lakeshore.
• Dinner: Enjoy a local nomadic dinner with your host family.
• Optional Activity: Short horse ride around the lake to admire the sunset over the mountains.

Day 2: Explore Song Kul & Journey to Issyk Kul

• Morning Horse Trek: After breakfast, enjoy a morning horse ride around the lake or visit a nearby nomadic settlement to observe their way of life.
• Lunch at the Yurt Camp.
• Afternoon: Drive toward Issyk Kul Lake, stopping at the famous Fairy Tale Canyon.
• Fairy Tale Canyon: Explore the vibrant red rocks and unique formations in the canyon. It's a great spot for photos and short hikes.
• Evening: Check into a guesthouse near Issyk Kul’s southern shore. Relax by the lakeside.

Day 3: Issyk Kul Exploration & Eagle Hunting

• Morning: Attend a live Eagle Hunting demonstration near Issyk Kul. Learn about the centuries-old tradition of hunting with trained eagles and witness a live demonstration.
• Mid-Day: After the demonstration, travel to Karakol, a small town near the base of the Celestial Mountains.
• Evening: Prepare for the next day’s trek. Stock up on trekking supplies (food, water, and essentials) in Karakol.
• Stay: Overnight at a cozy guesthouse in Karakol.

Day 4: Trek Begins - Karakol Valley

• Start of the Trek: Begin your 3-night adventure through the Celestial Mountains.
• Trek to Karakol Valley: Ascend through the valley with mesmerizing mountain views. Karakol Valley is known for its scenic beauty, alpine meadows, and wildflower-covered hills.
• Evening Camp: Camp overnight in tents at a designated campsite. Dinner will be provided.

Day 5: Trek to Ala Kul Lake

• Trek to Ala Kul Lake: Continue your trek to the stunning Ala Kul Lake, a high-altitude, glacial lake surrounded by towering peaks.
• Lunch at the lake.
• Afternoon: Relax by the lake or hike to higher vantage points for breathtaking views.
• Evening Camp: Overnight camping at Ala Kul.

Day 6: Trek to Altyn Arashan

• Morning: Trek through mountain passes and descend towards Altyn Arashan.
• Altyn Arashan Hot Springs: Arrive at the famous hot springs of Altyn Arashan. Soak in the natural mineral springs and rejuvenate your body after several days of trekking.
• Evening: Camp near Altyn Arashan or stay in a nearby guesthouse.

Day 7: Rest in Karakol or Explore Surroundings

• Return to Karakol: After a restful night at Altyn Arashan, head back to Karakol.
• Optional Day Trip: Explore the nearby Jeti Oguz gorge, known for its red cliffs, or head to the peaceful Barksoon Gorge.
• Evening: Return to Karakol and relax with a delicious local meal. You can also opt for a relaxing evening at Issyk Kul Lake with wine or a good book.
• Stay: Overnight at a guesthouse in Karakol.

Day 8: Return to Bishkek

• Drive Back to Bishkek: After breakfast, begin the scenic journey back to Bishkek.
• Lunch en route.
• Explore Bishkek: Once back in the capital, you can spend the evening exploring Bishkek’s local markets, cafes, and cultural landmarks.
• Optional: Enjoy craft beer and local Kyrgyz cuisine at one of Bishkek's popular food joints.
• Departure: Depending on your flight schedule, head to the airport for your onward journey.

Things to Carry :

Clothing-

1. Quick Dry Warm lower or Track Pants. 

2. Full sleeves T-shirts/ Sweatshirts.

3. Pair of thick woolen socks. 

4. Thermal Body warmer Upper & Lower. 

5. Personal Medicines if any

6. Warm jacket closed at the wrist & neck.

7. Full sleeves sweater. 

8. Rainwear ( Jacket & Pants ). 

9. Pair of Warm Gloves. 

10. Woolen cap. 

Toiletries-

1. Personal toiletries kit (Small Towel, Toilet paper, paper soap, Bar soap, toothbrush, toothpaste, cold cream, etc.)

2. Sun screen lotion small pack. 

3. Lip Balm small pack. 

Refunds and Cancellation Policy :

• If cancellations are made 15 days before the start date of the trip, 10% of the ticket value will be charged as cancellation fees.
• If cancellations are made 7-15 days before the start date of the trip, 20% of the ticket value will be charged as cancellation fees.
• If cancellations are made within 0-7 days before the start date of the trip, 50% of the booking value will be charged as cancellation fees. No refund 2 days before the start of camping.
• In case of unforeseen weather conditions or government restrictions, certain activities may be canceled and in such cases, the operator will try his best to provide an alternate feasible activity. 
• Due to the current covid-19 situation if an event is canceled due to government restrictions we will provide a voucher worth your ticket amount or will refund the amount in 7-9 working days.

Advisory :

• Pay attention to the tour leaders or instructors in order to enjoy a safe and sound experience.
• Roaming during the night is not permitted without our permission.
• Wearing any valuables, ornaments, jewelry, etc. is prohibited.
• You should strictly follow the code of conduct, to avoid troubling our fellow travelers or other people from our group or outside.
• Identity proof (must).
• Toiletries (Napkin, facewash, tissue paper, etc).