Located in the mountains of Kyrgyzstan, Song Kul is a high-altitude, alpine lake perfect for hiking and horseback riding, although the area is covered in snow for the majority of the year.

The winters are harsh, but in spring the landscape bursts into life. Nowhere is greener than the slopes around this beautiful lake and dozens of nomadic shepherd families come here to set up camp with their flocks. Homestays offer accommodation and the opportunity to have a more authentic experience as you stay with local families, staying in traditional yurts.

Reaching Song Kul Lake isn’t the easiest task, but it is worth the effort, with access from Suusamyr and Kazarman by 4WD, horse or hike.