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Of all the hikes in Kyrgyzstan, this trek from Issyk-Kul Lake to the Naryn region is one of the absolute best. The beauty of this trekking route is hard to put into words; it's surrounded by towering snowcapped mountains, lush fir tree forests, wildflowers, hot springs, yurt camps, and herds of grazing horses.

We will also drive to Song-Kul, the second largest alpine lake, situated at an altitude of 3,016 metres, where you can experience the traditional nomadic lifestyle that still thrives today.

Good to know

  • Kyrgyzstan owned & operated
  • Leading trekking specialist
  • Top rated on Trip Advisor
  • Book direct for best prices

What's included

  • Included Accommodation
  • Included Guided excursions
  • Included Ground transfers
  • Included All meals
  • Included Camping equipment
  • Included Support
Days

14

Starting from

$1,292 pp

Contact us now for more information about this trip
This tour is operated by
Kyrgyz Guided Tours

Speak to Asel for expert travel advice

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Destinations
Kyrgyzstan
Activity
Adventure, Backpacking, Hiking & Trekking, Active, Walking, Camping, Nature & Wildlife, Culture, Responsible Travel, Slow Travel
Tour Type
Custom itinerary, Private guided tour
Physical Level
Moderate

Detailed itinerary

What you'll see and do

This is a customisable trip

Use the following itinerary for inspiration. Remember: all days, hotels and activities can be altered to suit your requirements. A Kyrgyz Guided Tours travel specialist will be happy to advise.

Bishkek to Issyk-Kul lake

After breakfast in Bishkek, we drive to the 13th century Burana Tower en route to the southern side of Issyk-Kul lake, which is the second largest alpine lake in the world after Titicaca in Peru. Here we'll spend the night at our lakeside family guesthouse

Meals: Breakfast, Dinner.

Brief and warm up hike

After breakfast we'll set out on a short warm-up hike and our tour guide will briefly explain about route and safety requirements.

When we arrive to Zhazy Kechuu pasture, we will have a lunch and we will prepare for the next trekking day. This day trekking starts from 1700 m to 2400 m with elevation gain of 700 m.

Accommodation: Camping

Meal: Full Board

Trekking from Issyk-Kul to Naryn

After breakfast you'll embark on an exhilarating 8-day adventure through the stunning landscapes of Kyrgyzstan. Starting from the breathtaking Shamshy Gorge, you’ll traverse alpine meadows, ascend towering passes, and immerse yourself in the rich culture of local shepherds.

Your journey begins with a leisurely trek to Kok Bel Pass, where you'll be surrounded by the grandeur of the alpine mountains. Each day brings new challenges and rewards, from the breathtaking views at the 3,896-meter Tosor Pass to the serene Uch Emchek pasture, where you’ll spend a night nestled in the embrace of the mountains.

As you continue through the Zhyluu Suu valley, you’ll discover hidden waterfalls and the inviting warmth of natural hot springs, providing a perfect respite after a day of trekking. The trail leads you to the stunning Teshik Kol Lake, where you can take in the beauty of two shimmering mountain lakes before making your way to Karakaman Gorge, a place of spectacular scenery and tranquility.

Your adventure ramps up as you cross the Balgard River towards Jakyp Bolot Pass, navigating through striking landscapes and challenging terrains. The highlight comes at Jakyp Bolot Pass itself, standing at 3,960 meters above sea level, offering jaw-dropping vistas of the snow-capped peaks of the Tien-Shan mountain range.

The trek culminates with a rewarding journey down to the Jalgyz Karagai pasture before you finally descend to the charming town of Naryn. Here, you’ll enjoy a well-deserved rest and a taste of local hospitality at the Khan-Tengri Hotel.

Naryn to Son Kul

After breakfast we'll meet our vehicles to drive to Son Kul Lake (180 km, 4 hrs) through Moldo Ashu Pass at 3,340m. We'll arrive in time for lunch in our Yurt Camp. The lake has spectacular view and the most beautiful Sunset. You can feel real nomad vibe in Song-Kul and get to know local shepherds’ life.

The following day enjoy a free day at Son Kul Lake. There's a two to three hour hike, or you can simply explore this traditional place and take photos. Spend your last night with a campfire among your new friends.

Accommodation: Yurt Camp. Meals: Full Board

Return to Bishkek

Breakfast. It‘s time to say goodbye to locals and continue our journey back to Bishkek. We will come to Bishkek through Kochkor region and on the way to Bishkek we will have multiple stops from Panorama Views.

  • Bishkek

    Bishkek

  • Lake Issyk Kul

    Lake Issyk Kul

  • Naryn

    Naryn

  • Song Kul Lake

    Song Kul Lake

    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...
  • Bishkek

    Bishkek

Speak to a Kyrgyzstan specialist about this trip

Kyrgyz Guided Tours

Contact us now for more information about this trip

Talk to us

What's included

Included Accommodation

Accommodation based on twin sharing room.

All tents and camping equipment while trekking: crockeries, gas etc.

Included Guided excursions

Fully escorted with expert trekking guide.

Porters to carry equipment and food.

Included Ground transfers

All ground transportation and transfers

Included All meals

All meals, freshly prepared by your own cook, while trekking

Included Camping equipment

Tents and other camping equipment.

(Sleeping pads and sleeping bags are not provided but can be rented.)

Included Support

24/7 emergency support while travelling.

Reviews

What people are saying about Kyrgyz Guided Tours

Soumiya L
11/09/2024

Kyrgyz guided tours planned our trip really well. They were very accommodating and customized our trip based on our preferences. Our guide Motez was the best, very sweet and helpful. He took us around all the places and showed us the best views and experiences in the country. The accomodations booked were very good, loved all our stays. This was one of the best trips for us. I highly recommend booking your trip with kyrygz guided tours.

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Giovanni Mereghetti
21/09/2024

Wonderful trip to still virgin lands and inhabited by extraordinary people. Thanks to the organization of Kyrgyz guide Tour the trip became a daily discovery. Very professional they proved - first in the person of Ilyas during the organization, and then during the trip with the excellent Altyn - a high-level team. I will return to these places ... :-)

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Arghya M
10/07/2024

The views were amazing. Kyrgyzstan is a virgin country to explore. Our guide - driver Erkin was marvellous. He attended to all our needs and has become my friend at the end of our journey. You may contact Ilyas or Erkin who will chalk a complete itinerary for you addressing your tastes and preferences.

Read more

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