Fragrance of Kyrgyzstan
From yurts to snow-capped peaks, the nomadic spirit of Kyrgyzstan awaits you
Duration
10 days
From
€1,290/pers.
Ideal seasons
Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep
Style
Guided tour
Comfort
Charm & Character
Travelers
Couple, Solo, With friends
The spirit of travel
This journey through Kyrgyzstan invites you to cross a territory of contrasts, between large alpine lakes, verdant valleys and high pastoral plateaus. You explore preserved landscapes, marked by nomadic culture and a way of life closely linked to the mountains. Throughout the circuit, you share simple moments with local people, discover Kyrgyz traditions and progress at a pace that leaves room for emotion, contemplation and exchange.
Between nature, gentle adventure and local immersion, this route takes you from the shores of Issyk-Kul to the pastures of Son-Kul, passing through colorful canyons, artisan villages and yurt camps. An itinerary designed for those who wish to experience an authentic journey, blending cultural discovery, walks, encounters and open horizons.
The stages of your journey
Highlights
Day-by-day itinerary
Welcome and departure for Chon Kemin National Park
Aéroport International De Manas → Bishkek
Upon arrival at Manas Airport, your driver welcomes you and ensures everything runs smoothly. You are then transferred to your hotel to begin your stay in complete peace of mind.
You stop to visit the ruins of the Burana Minaret, an ancient Jami mosque destroyed in the 13th century during the Tatar invasions. You then climb to the top of the minaret, where you enjoy a clear view of the surrounding countryside. The visit continues with the associated museum, which allows you to better understand the history of the site.
You arrive in the lush Chon-Kemin valley, a nature reserve distinguished by the diversity of its landscapes mixing semi-desert areas, glaciers and gorges.
On the way to the Issyk Kul mountains
In the morning, you discover the beauty of the surroundings on horseback, departing from your host's home where you will spend the night. For those who prefer to stay on foot, this experience can be replaced by an accessible hike around the village.
From Chon-Kemin
Next, you head to Konorchek Canyon, a preserved site where scarlet rock formations evoke the American Grand Canyon. The red sand columns that stand all around create an intimate and spectacular atmosphere. In case of heavy precipitation, a visit to Konorchek Canyon can be replaced by discovering the Ruh-Ordo cultural center.
Le Canyon De Konorchek → Kyrchyn
You reach the shores of the Issyk Kul Lake (1,609 m altitude), the world's second largest alpine lake. A true inland sea, it is often called the pearl of Kirghizistan. Surrounded by the Celestial Mountains chain, snow-capped peaks exceeding 5,000 m are reflected in its clear waters. From the surrounding mountains, numerous rivers descend towards the lake by crossing valleys with distinctive character.
North of Kyrchyn, you take a mountain trail that climbs up the Chong Ak-Suu valley for approximately 40 minutes. You then settle in with a local family for an immersion into the local way of life.
Visit to Karakol
You head back down into the Semenovka valley and walk along the stream before rejoining the main road.
Kyrchyn (Semenovskoe) Gorge, Süttüü-Bulak → Karakol
To Karakol
You arrive in Karakol, a peaceful town located near Lake Issyk-Kul. You take the time to visit the Holy Trinity Cathedral, a 19th-century Orthodox church, as well as the Chinese Mosque, a building with a style reminiscent of Mongolian Buddhist temples, built by Dungan craftsmen.
You then head towards the hot springs of Orto-Oruktu, renowned for their mineral waters with beneficial properties.
On the way, a stop is planned at a fish farm, where you will have the opportunity to fish for your lunch.
Arrival in Karakol, a small peaceful town on the shores of Lake Issyk-Kul. We take time to visit the Holy Trinity Cathedral, a 19th-century Orthodox church; the Chinese Mosque with the appearance of a Mongolian Buddhist temple, built by Dungan Chinese craftsmen.
Along the way, you make a stop at the Przewalsky Museum, which retraces the history of the discovery of the wild horse in the Gobi Desert.
Discovery Day
Early in the morning, you discover Karakol's historical museum, where you have the opportunity to explore the exhibition dedicated to Ella Maillart's expedition, which traveled through Central Asia. You then continue your tour of the lake by taking the circular road leading to the southern shore. Wilder than the northern coast, this region offers the opportunity to discover remarkable new natural sites.
You arrive in the Jety Orguz valley. Covered in dense vegetation, this gorge stretches 37 km between Lake Issyk-Kul and the Celestial Mountains. Its impressive red rock ridges, nicknamed "the 7 bulls", make up an emblematic landscape, which was already featured on Soviet postage stamps in 1968. You then enjoy a hiking trip through the heart of the valley.
Jeti-Oguz Valley → Skazka Canyon
You visit the Skaska canyon, whose name means "fairy tale" in Kyrgyz. Its multicolored rock formations dominate Lake Issyk-Kul. Resulting from ancient volcanic eruptions, these natural sculptures with varied shapes evoke landscapes worthy of a tale.
Skazka Canyon → Kyzyl-Tuu
A family from the village will have the honor of showing us how a yurt is built, and if you wish you can help them with this activity.
At the intersection of two rivers
You join the main road heading towards the village of Kochkor, known for its local development initiatives. You visit the women's cooperative there, where felt carpets (sherdaks) are made, following a craft passed down from generation to generation.
After lunch, you leave Kochkor to reach Eki-Naryn, a place where two arms of the Naryn river, the main tributary of the Syr-Daria, meet.
You then cross the Dolon pass, located at over 3,030 meters above sea level. This passage connects the Issyk-Kul region to the Naryn basin and offers wide panoramas of the Tian Shan mountains. The road alternates between steep climbs and descents, allowing you to observe the valley and surrounding mountain ranges, with their snow-capped glaciers.
After settling into the yurt camp, you enjoy a short ride around the camp.
You visit the women's cooperative, where traditional felt carpets (sherdaks) are made, testifying to the region's craft expertise.
In the city of Naryn
Discovery of Pastoral Life at Son Kul
Day 8: Today, you set off on horseback along the shores of the lake, to enjoy the landscapes and the tranquility of the pastures.
You then have lunch with your hosts, followed by free time in the afternoon to take a walk by the water or simply share everyday moments with the Kyrgyz herders.
You retrieve your vehicle and take the main road towards Son-Kul Lake. You cross the Moldo Ashuu pass (3,346 m) and traverse open landscapes before settling with a family of shepherds. You reach the shores of Son-Koul Lake, often considered the second wonder of Kirghizistan. This immense alpine lake constitutes the country's first freshwater reserve. Located in the heart of the Celestial Mountains, it peaks at 3,016 meters altitude and has long fueled travelers' imagination. Its crystalline water, of great purity, changes hue throughout the day, shifting from blue to green and sometimes taking on orange-tinged reflections.
Visit of Bishkek, the capital of Kyrgyzstan
Installation at your hotel, where you take time to rest.
You set out to visit the capital and start with the Osh Bazaar, considered one of the liveliest markets in Kyrgyzstan. As you walk through the aisles, stalls of dried fruits and colorful spices brighten your journey and recall the atmosphere of Central Asia. You will also find many traditional souvenirs there.
You then stroll through the Ala-Too Square, in the heart of Bishkek. A privileged meeting place for Kyrgyz youth, it comes alive every evening with passersby who come to stroll. The square has also been the setting for several major events in the country's political history.
Last day of travel before reaching the Kyrgyz capital. You leave the lush mountains where you met a people attached to their traditions, then arrive in Bishkek.
Dive into the heart of Kyrgyzstan's history with a visit to the National History Museum. You will discover a rich past steeped in traditions: the first floor is dedicated to secular Kyrgyz culture, while the second chronicles the major events of the Soviet period.
Good to see you again and see you next time!
Bishkek → Aéroport International De Manas
You are then driven to Bishkek international airport. The return transfer is carried out at the time corresponding to your flight.
Price per person
Indicative price per person, based on double room. Each trip is customized according to your preferences.
This trip can be tailored to your preferences
This itinerary provides an excellent foundation for discovery, but it can be fully customized. Our local advisors build each trip tailored to your budget, dates and preferences.
Not included
- International Transport
- Passport fees
- Repatriation insurance
- Travel Insurance
- Extra drinks / alcohols
- Meals in Bishkek
- Phone calls
- Any excursion not mentioned in the program
- Single room supplement
Included
- Airport / hotel / airport transfers
- 1 night in 3-star hotel in Bishkek, breakfast included
- 1 night in a local hotel in Karakol
- 2 nights in a guest house
- 2 nights with a host family, in a host's yurt
- 2 nights with a local family
- 1 night in yurt camp
- Full board during the excursion
- Mineral water
- Vehicle + driver
- Essence
- English-speaking guide
- Local Equestrian Guides
- Horse rental
- Entrance fees for the parks and museums mentioned
- Camping kitchen equipment (tables and camping chairs) and bedding (sleeping bag)
Your accommodations
My Hotel Karakol
Rich Hotel
Practical Information
Registration is considered firm and final after payment of a deposit of 30% of the total price and acceptance of the specific terms of sale.
The balance must be paid no later than 45 days before the departure date.
See our specific terms of sale for full details.
In the event of cancellation by the traveller, the following fees apply:
- More than 60 days before departure: 40% of the total price (deposit retained)
- Between 60 and 30 days before departure: 50% of the total price
- Less than 30 days before departure: 100% of the total price
We strongly recommend taking out cancellation insurance. See our specific terms of sale for full details.
The information below concerns entry requirements for tourism stays in Kyrgyzstan. Entry requirements may vary depending on your nationality. We recommend verifying the conditions with the embassy or consulate of Kyrgyzstan in your country of residence, as well as with your own country's authorities, before departure.
Passport
To enter Kyrgyzstan, your passport must be valid for a minimum of six months from the date of entry and must contain at least one blank page for immigration stamps.
The document must be in good condition (no damaged, torn, or altered pages).
Tourism entry requirements
Entry requirements for tourism stays depend on your nationality and the applicable bilateral agreements between Kyrgyzstan and your country of citizenship.
Verify the specific conditions with the embassy or consulate of Kyrgyzstan in your country of residence to determine whether you require a visa or whether an exemption applies, and the maximum duration of stay permitted.
The authorities may request:
an exit ticket from the territory (return flight or onward travel),
proof of sufficient financial resources for the duration of your stay,
a confirmation of accommodation booking.
Registration with local authorities
Any traveller staying in Kyrgyzstan is required to register with the immigration services within five working days of arrival.
In practice, this registration is generally completed automatically by the hotel or accommodation provider. If staying with a private individual (private rental, host family), it is the responsibility of the host or the traveller to complete this formality at the local registration office (ОВИР).
It is advisable to keep a copy of the registration certificate, which may be requested during police checks or when leaving the territory.
Travel with children
Minors must hold their own valid passport covering the duration of the stay.
When a minor travels without one of their parents, an authorization to leave the territory may be required according to the regulations of the country of residence.
Health and vaccines
No vaccination is mandatory to enter Kyrgyzstan. However, certain vaccinations are recommended for preventive purposes, including:
typhoid and hepatitis A, due to local sanitary conditions,
rabies, particularly for travellers planning activities in rural or mountainous areas,
tick-borne encephalitis, for hikers visiting forested or high-altitude areas.
It is advisable to consult a doctor or international vaccination centre before departure.
To participate in our trips, it is strongly recommended that you have assistance and repatriation insurance as well as medical expense coverage abroad.
Your local agency encourages you to review the specific contract developed with our partner CHAPKA ASSURANCES and AXA ASSISTANCE.
To subscribe to an insurance policy, learn about coverage and rates, follow the link below.
CAP EXPLORER: The complete insurance solution designed to travel peacefully!
Choose the plan that suits you best:
Explorer'Multirisque
Explorer'Annulation
Explorer'Assistance
Explorer' Complementary Credit Card
Specific to our trips, we strongly recommend subscribing to one of these.
If you choose to subscribe to one of these plans, the policy detailing all coverage and claim reporting procedures are available on the insurer's website.
Your local agency will be aware of it, but only the participant is responsible for complying with the claim reporting procedures. The participant must therefore keep this policy with them throughout the duration of their trip.
Chapka — Cap Explorer
Our insurance partnerTravel with peace of mind with our partner Chapka. Cancellation, repatriation, medical expenses, baggage… All the coverage for a worry-free trip.
Travel with peace of mind — I'll handle the insuranceFrequently asked questions
Non, les ressortissants français peuvent séjourner jusqu'à 60 jours au Kirghizistan sans visa. Passeport valide au moins 6 mois après l'entrée requis. Une destination particulièrement accessible pour découvrir le Tian Shan et la culture nomade. Vérifiez les conditions à jour avant le départ.
Rendez-vous dans la section Mes Voyages pour retrouver tous vos projets.
Vous pouvez envoyer un message à votre hôte directement depuis le Salon de Thé.
Pour un voyage sur mesure de qualité, comptez entre 110 et 180 euros par jour et par personne, incluant hébergement, repas, transports internes et guide. Les vols internationaux (500-900 euros A/R, souvent via Istanbul) sont en supplément. Le Kirghizistan est l'une des destinations de montagne les plus abordables au monde.
Vos documents sont accessibles dans l'onglet Documents de votre voyage.
Absolument. Nous adaptons chaque circuit au profil des voyageurs. Pour les familles, nous privilégions des rythmes détendus, des hébergements familiaux, des activités ludiques et pédagogiques, et des transferts privés confortables. Nos guides locaux francophones savent capter l'attention des enfants avec des anecdotes adaptées à leur âge.
C'est simple. Vous échangez avec notre équipe locale pour définir vos envies, votre budget et vos dates. Vous recevez une proposition d'itinéraire détaillée sous 48 heures. Vous ajustez ensemble chaque détail jusqu'à la version parfaite. Vous confirmez et partez l'esprit tranquille. Votre agence locale reste disponible 7j/7 pendant toute la durée du voyage.
En cas d'urgence, contactez immédiatement votre agence locale.
Le paiement s'effectue généralement en deux fois.
Notre agence fait partie du réseau Nomadays, immatriculé en France. Vous bénéficiez de la garantie APST (Association Professionnelle de Solidarité du Tourisme) qui couvre 100% de vos fonds. Paiement sécurisé, assurance rapatriement incluse, et assistance francophone 24h/24 sur place pendant tout votre séjour.
Let's talk about your adventure — Issyk-Kol Region
Our travel expert, Nomade, based in Bishkek
Kyrgyzstan isn't just visited. It's lived in, over a shared cup of tea in a yurt, at the pace of horses, wind, and human connection.
— Nazira
