Kazakhstan & Kyrgyzstan
Join The Adventure
15th - 22nd June /2026
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- Combine this trip with Turkmenistn & Uzbekistan -
7th - 15th June /2026
1,890
8 days
Tour Highlights
Almaty
Jety-Oguz Valley
Charyn Canyon
Eagle hunting
Stay in yurt
Son-Kul Lake
We're excited to introduce one of our newest and most popular destinations for 2026 — a journey into Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan. Imagine walking through canyons that look like a fairytale, staying in yurts under starry skies, and discovering the nomadic traditions of Central Asia.
Want to explore more of Central Asia while you're in the region? Join our Turkmenistan & Uzbekistan Adventure for a one-of-a-kind overland journey the week before this trip! These experiences will give you everything you’re looking for in Central Asia.
Itinerary
Day 1:
Arrival in Almaty-Almaty city tour
Upon arrival at Almaty airport, transfer to the hotel for check-in. After some rest, depending on the arrival time of the group, embark on a guided city tour. The tour will include visits to the Green Market, the iconic Zenkov Cathedral, Koktobe Hill with panoramic views of the city, and the famous Medeo ice-skating rink nestled in the mountains.
Overnight in Almaty.
Day 2:
Almaty – Charyn canyons – Saty village
Early in the morning, depart from Almaty for Charyn Canyon, one of Kazakhstan's most breathtaking natural wonders. The journey takes approximately 4-6 hours, depending on road conditions and traffic.
Upon arrival, take a walk through the Valley of Castles, the canyon's most famous and picturesque section. The walk is around 2 km down to the valley, where a river flows amidst stunning rock formations.
After exploring the canyon, continue the journey to Saty Village, where you'll spend the night in a cozy guesthouse, experiencing local hospitality.
Overnight Saty Village.
Day 3:
Saty – Kolsay lake – Karakol
Early in the morning, depart from the guesthouse and drive to Kolsai Lake, one of the most scenic lakes in Kazakhstan, surrounded by lush forests and mountains. Upon arrival, enjoy a walk along the lakeshore, soaking in the tranquil beauty of the landscape. For those seeking a more adventurous experience, optional horseback riding is available.
After spending a few hours at the lake, continue the journey towards the Kazakhstan-Kyrgyzstan border to cross into Kyrgyzstan. From there, drive to the town of Karakol, a cultural hub nestled at the foot of the Tian Shan mountains.
Upon arrival, enjoy a folk music show showcasing traditional Kyrgyz music and instruments.
Overnight in Karakol.
Day 4:
Karakol – Jetyoguz – Barskoon – Skazka – Aksay canyons
In the morning, leave Karakol to visit the Dungan Mosque with its pagoda-style architecture and the Russian Orthodox Church made of wood. Continue to the Jety-Oguz Valley, known for its striking red rock formations like the "Seven Bulls". Drive along the southern shore of Issyk Kul Lake to Barskoon Valley, where a short hike leads to scenic waterfalls at 2,500 meters. After a coffee break, visit the Skazka Canyons, famous for their unique sandstone formations.
Overnight in Issyk Kul Lake.
Day 5:
Aksai canyons – Naryn
After breakfast, drive to a panoramic viewpoint offering stunning views of the Skazka Canyons, snowcapped mountains, and Issyk Kul Lake from one spot. A 30-minute walk to the hilltop provides the best vantage point. Continue through the canyons to Kyzyltuu village (about one hour's drive) to watch a yurt assembling show, learning about the Kyrgyz nomadic tradition. After the 30-minute demonstration, proceed along the southern shore of Issyk Kul Lake, following the Kashgar–Bishkek road to reach Naryn for the night.
Overnight: Naryn
Day 6:
Naryn – Kolsuu lake
Early in the morning, depart from Naryn, refuel, and head towards Köl-Suu Lake. Though the distance is only 160 km, the unpaved, rugged road takes around 5-6 hours, passing through three scenic mountain passes, two of which rise over 3,000 meters. Along the way, cross several border checkpoints, pre-arranged with passport details in advance. Upon arrival, take a 4-5 km walk or an optional horseback ride to the stunning alpine lake. Return to the yurt camp for dinner and overnight stay, sharing yurts with four people per tent.
Overnight in Kolsuu Lake
Day 7:
Kolsuu - Sonkul
Early morning leave Kolsuu lake, drive back till Naryn after proceed further to Sonkul lake, at arrival free time.
Overnight in a Sonkul
Day 8:
Sonkul – Bishkek-Departure
Son-Kul Lake – Burana Tower – Bishkek
In the morning, depart from Son-Kul Lake at a leisurely pace and drive towards Bishkek. Along the way, stop at Burana Tower, a 24-meter-high minaret built in the 10th century by the first empire to adopt Islam as the state religion. After exploring the historical site, continue to Bishkek for a short city tour, followed by drop-off at the hotel or airport.
What's included ?
Airport pick-up and drop-off
All breakfast and some dinners
All transportation
All accommodation
All entrance fee
English-speaking local guide
folk music, yurt show
Excluded
International flights to Almaty and from Bishkek
Personal expenses
Tips for local guides
Travel Insurance
Visa fee
Lunches
Frequently Asked Questions
1
Is this Adventure for me?
If you're looking for a unique Adventure filled with breathtaking nature, rich culture, and authentic experiences, then absolutely;
Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan are for you!
2
How does the booking process work?
Your spot will be secured as soon as we receive your deposit payment. This deposit is refundable up to 7 days after your booking.
To know more about our booking policy, please check our
3
How do I get visa?
Most nationalities can enter Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan visa-free for up to 30 days. However, If a visa is needed, our team will assist you with the process and provide all the necessary information.
4
What is the minimum/maximum number of participants on this trip?
We do have a guarantee of departure for this trip.
And we take a maximum of 12 people + crew for each tour.
5
How do I get there?
Our Adventure begins in Almaty, Kazakhstan on the afternoon of the 14th, so we recommend booking flights that arrive in Almaty in the morning or before to ensure a smooth start. The journey will end in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan, where you can plan your onward travel.
6
What are the optional activities?
Optional activities include rafting on the last day en route to Bishkek, horseback riding, boat rides in Kolsuu, and various hiking opportunities. Additionally, optional demonstrations such as an eagle-hunting show and the traditional national horseback game Kok Boru are available for an immersive cultural experience.
