
Trek and horse
Horseback riding and trekking in the heart of summer jailoos, between high-altitude lakes and nomadic traditions.
Duration
11 days
From
€1,570/pers.
Ideal seasons
Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep
Style
Guided tour
Comfort
budget
Travelers
Solo, With friends, Couple
The spirit of travel
This circuit offers you complete immersion in the heart of Kirghizistan, combining horseback riding, trekking and local encounters. In Chon Kemin National Park, you set off on a three-day self-guided horseback ride, accompanied by an attentive local team, at the pace of horses and vast open spaces. Forests, open valleys and mountain passes create a setting conducive to disconnecting and observing pastoral life.
The journey continues with a two-day trek to discover the high-altitude lakes of Kol Ukok and Kol Tor, nestled in preserved environments. On the high plateaus, particularly around Son Kul lake, you meet shepherds settled in jailoos during the summer and share moments of daily life, between traditions and hospitality.
Accessible to false beginners, this circuit is aimed at travelers in good physical condition, wishing to experience a nature adventure combining local immersion, varied landscapes and cultural discovery, without particular technical difficulty.
The stages of your journey
Highlights
Day-by-day itinerary

Welcome and Departure for Chon Kemin National Park
Aéroport International De Manas → Bishkek
Upon your arrival at Manas International Airport, your driver warmly welcomes you and accompanies you as you exit.
You then take the road for your transfer to your hotel.
You stop to visit the ruins of the Minaret of Burana, 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.
Bishkek → Le parc national Chon-Kemin
You arrive in the lush landscape, a nature reserve characterized by the diversity of its landscapes, between semi-desert areas, glaciers and gorges. You then take time to stroll around the surroundings, in the heart of this preserved natural environment.

Adventure on horseback in the Toru-Aygyr gorge
Le parc national Chon-Kemin → Toru-Aygyr
You begin this equestrian adventure by galloping across fields, before venturing into the Toru-Aygyr gorge. As you progress, the landscape transforms, revealing a forest of fir trees dotted with streams. Gradually, you gain altitude and move along sloping terrain until you reach the pass.
3-day horse trek independently in Chon Kemin national park, with logistics and personal belongings carried by pack horses.

View of the small lake nestled in the mountains
Today, you cross the pass, which offers a panoramic view of the high snow-capped peaks of Ala Too.
Toru-Aygyr → Kol-tor
After lunch, you resume your trek towards the small glacial lake of Kol-tor, located at 3,000 meters altitude. The camp is set up on the shores of the lake, where you spend the night.

Horseback Ride on the Shores of Lake Issyk Kul
From Kol-tor
You ride back on towards Jeltyibes, passing through the Kol-Tor pass at 2,200 metres altitude. The route crosses a river and offers the opportunity to meet herders who have settled for the summer in these high-altitude pastures. Along the way, a viewpoint opens up over the Issyk-Koul Lake.
Jel-Tiybes → Tamchy
At Jeltyibes, you bid farewell to the support team, before being transferred to the village of Tamchy. You then spend the rest of the day relaxing and unwinding in the waters of Lake Issyk Kul.

Route to the artisanal village of Kochkor
You head back onto the main road towards the village of Kochkor, recognized for its local development initiatives.
You visit the women's cooperative, where traditional felt carpets (sherdaks) are made, testifying to the region's artisanal craftsmanship.
In the evening, you attend a traditional Kyrgyz folk show. On the program: a Manas storyteller, traditional music and songs that immerse you in the country's epic tales and legends.

Hiking towards Lake Kol Ukok
Kochkor → Kol Ukok
Early in the morning, you are transferred to the small village of Isakaev, the starting point of your trek. Upon arrival, you are welcomed by your local guide, who accompanies you throughout these two days of hiking. After loading the logistics onto pack horses, you begin the trek on a trail crossing fields and streams, before gradually gaining altitude. As you walk, the landscapes evolve and the vegetation becomes sparser. Along the way, you can observe herds grazing in the surrounding jailoos. The last hour of trekking is more demanding, with the ascent of the pass located at 3,000 meters altitude, leading to your destination.
The waters of Kol Ukok then appear, whose turquoise hue contrasts with the verdant shades of the valley.
Installation at your host's, under the yurt.
2-day trek independently, with logistics and your personal belongings carried by pack horses.

Hiking to another small lake
Arrival in the small village, then transfer to your guest house for some well-deserved rest. Free evening.
From Kol Ukok
For those who wish (optional), an excursion allows you to reach Kol Tor lake, located at 3,500 meters altitude. Departure takes place at dawn for a walk of approximately three hours round trip. The route first follows the river before reaching a scree slope. The progression then continues on increasingly marked terrain, with a steeper slope and taller grass. In case of rain, caution is advised, as the ground can become slippery. After approximately one and a half hours of walking and crossing the pass, this small mountain lake reveals itself.
To Kochkor
You head back on the road towards Kochkor. The descent takes place at a smoother and faster pace.

Relaxation on the shores of Lake Son Koul
Arrival on the shores of Son-Koul Lake, one of the emblematic sites of Kyrgyzstan. This vast alpine lake constitutes the country's main freshwater reserve. Nestled in the heart of the Tian Shan Mountains, it is located at 3,016 meters altitude and has long nourished the imagination of travelers. Its crystal-clear waters are distinguished by their color variations over time, oscillating between blue and green, and sometimes taking on orange hues depending on the light and weather conditions.
Day 9
You take this day to relax and discover the lifestyle of the family hosting you. You can attend the preparation of kumiss, the herding of livestock or the milking of cows, so many moments of pastoral daily life.
After lunch, and depending on your wishes, it is possible to leave for a short horseback ride.
During the day, you have the opportunity to attend the preparation of a traditional dish, a convivial moment that allows you to get your hands dirty and discover new flavors.

On the way to Bishkek and visiting the city
You are discovering the Konorchek canyon, a preserved site with rock formations in scarlet hues, evoking certain landscapes of the American Grand Canyon. The red sand columns that rise all around create an atmosphere that is both mineral and intimate.
Last day of travel before reaching the Kyrgyz capital. You leave the lush mountains of Kyrgyzstan after discovering a welcoming people and traditions still deeply rooted, then arrive in Bishkek. Upon arrival, you will be settled in your hotel, with time planned for you to rest.
You head to the Osh Bazaar, the liveliest market in Kyrgyzstan. As you walk through, stalls of dried fruits and spices succeed one another, offering an immersion in the colors of Central Asia. You will also find many traditional souvenirs from the country.
A stroll through Ala-Too Square, in the center of Bishkek. A meeting place for Kyrgyz youth, it comes alive every evening with locals who come to walk there. This square has also been the scene of many significant episodes and revolutions in the country's history.

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 & Visa Fees
- Repatriation Insurance
- Travel Insurance
- Extra drinks / alcohols
- Meals in Bishkek
- Phone calls
- Any excursion not mentioned in the program
- Supplement for "single" room
- Early check-in
Included
- Airport / hotel / airport transfers
- 1 night in a 3-star hotel in Bishkek with breakfast included
- 5 nights staying with locals, including 3 nights in a yurt
- 1 night in yurt camp
- 2 nights under tent, in camping
- 1 night in a guest house
- Full board during the excursion
- Mineral water
- Vehicle + driver
- Essence
- English-speaking guide
- Local guide
- Grooms
- Pack horses for equipment transport during self-sufficient days
- Equestrian equipment with Kyrgyz trekking saddles
- Entrance fees for parks and museums mentioned
- Kitchen equipment (mess tent, camping tables and chairs) and sleeping gear (tent, sleeping bag, ground mat), sanitary tent
Your accommodations

Camping - Sous tentes
Guesthouse à Tamchy
Yurt Camp Kol Ukok
Grand 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 — North and Bishkek
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







