Highland Wonders of Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan in 10 days
Embark on an unforgettable journey through Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan, exploring the
breathtaking landscapes of the Tien Shan Mountains. Visit Almaty’s highlights, the dramatic
Charyn Canyon, and the alpine Kolsai and Kaindy Lakes. Experience the adventure of
Altyn-Arashan Gorge, the serenity of Issyk-Kul and Son-Kul Lakes, and the remote beauty of
Kel-Suu Lake. Discover historic sites like Tash-Rabat Caravanserai and enjoy authentic nomadic
culture along the way.
Itinerary for 10 days
1 Day
Almaty
After breakfast, your guide and driver will meet you in the hotel lobby and take you on a scenic drive (approximately 25 km) to Shymbulak Ski Resort.
Enjoy a visit to the resort and a cable car ride, offering spectacular views of the snow-capped peaks of the Tian Shan Mountains.
In the afternoon, return to the city for a sightseeing tour of Almaty. The program includes visits to Panfilov Park, the iconic Zenkov Cathedral, the Central State Museum (closed on Tuesdays), and Republic Square.
2 Day
Almaty – Charyn Canyon – Kolsai Lakes (Overnight at a hotel in Saty Village / Kolsai area)
After breakfast, depart from Almaty for a scenic
drive to Charyn Canyon (approximately 200 km, 3–4 hours). Explore the dramatic landscapes of this natural wonder, often referred to as the “Grand Canyon of Kazakhstan.” Enjoy a walk through the canyon, where you will see its impressive rock formations shaped by wind and time, followed by a short rest to take in the views. Afterwards, continue the journey to Saty Village and visit the picturesque Kolsai Lake (approximately 90 km from Charyn Canyon). Take a leisurely walk along the lake and enjoy the peaceful mountain scenery. In the evening, arrive in Saty Village for an overnight stay at a local guesthouse or hotel in the Kolsai area.
3 Day
Kaindy Lake – Kegen Border Crossing – Karakol
After breakfast, drive to the stunning Kaindy Lake (approximately 30-45 minutes to drive from Saty/Kolsai). This lake is famous for its submerged forest and crystal-clear mountain waters. Enjoy a walk along the shore and take in the unique scenery.
After visiting the lake, continue to the Kegen border crossing between Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan (approximately 109 km / 2 hours). Complete the border formalities, and you will be met by your Kyrgyz guide on the other side. From the border, drive to Karakol (approximately 120 km / 2 hours). Upon arrival, enjoy a brief city sightseeing tour of Karakol, including its main landmarks. After the tour, check in at your hotel
and relax.
4 Day
Karakol – Southern Shore of Issyk-Kul Lake
Start the day with an early departure from Karakol to the Altyn-Arashan Mountains (approximately 35 km/2-3 hours by UAZ (old soviet transportation) 4x4 due to the rough, bumpy mountain road). Enjoy an adventurous ride throug stunning landscapes as you ascend into the mountains. Arrive at the impressive Altyn-Arashan Gorge, and hike to a panoramic viewpoint to admire the towering
snow-capped peaks, majestic fir forests, and drifting clouds. This is a perfect spot for photos and to soak in the serene mountain scenery. Possibility to go to hot springs After the excursion, return to Karakol (approximately 35 km / 2-3 hours ) and check in at a local guesthouse for your overnight stay.
Note* Possibility to do kayaking for extra fee.
5 Day
Karakol - south shore of Issyk-Kul lake, 180 km,
3-4 hours of driving.
After breakfast at your guesthouse in Karakol, depart for the southern shore of Issyk-Kul Lake (approximately 180 km / 3–4 hours). Along the way, visit the striking Djety-Oguz Gorge, known for its dramatic red rock formations, and explore the Kok-Zhaiyk Valley, where you can enjoy a scenic hike to a picturesque waterfall.
Continue to the enchanting Barskoon Gorge. Take a walk through the lush Tien Shan spruce forest to discover two spectacular waterfalls, where cascading water creates thundering sounds and shimmering rainbows. Next, explore the magical “Fairy Tale” Canyon, wandering along its narrow trails and marveling at the unique rock formations and peaks. End the day with check-in at the cozy Tong Marina Hotel, perfectly situated for relaxation along the southern shore of
Issyk-Kul Lake.
6 Day
Southern Shore of Issyk-Kul Lake – Son-Kul Lake (Approx. 300 km / 4-5 hours of driving)
After breakfast, depart from the southern shore of Issyk-Kul Lake and head towards the breathtaking Son-Kul Lake. Along the way, enjoy a fascinating eagle-hunting show, a traditional Kyrgyz spectacle showcasing the skill of local hunters and their majestic birds. Stop to explore the scenic Aksay Canyons, with their dramatic rock formations, and have lunch en route.
Continue the journey to Son-Kul Lake, a high-altitude alpine lake surrounded by rolling pastures. Experience an authentic overnight stay in traditional yurts, immersing yourself in the unique nomadic lifestyle and tranquil mountain scenery.
7 Day
Son-Kul lake - Kek-Kiya (5-6 hours journey)
Depart from Son-Kül and begin the scenic journey toward the Kek-Kiya (Kok-Kiya) Valley — a drive of approximately 200 km and around 5–6 hours through dramatic mountain landscapes and high-altitude passes.
Enjoy a hearty breakfast before setting off toward the Kek-Kiya Valley, a remote and breathtaking region nestled in the Naryn area of Kyrgyzstan. Along the way, savor the spectacular views of alpine meadows, rugged mountain peaks, and winding river valleys that make this part of the Tien-Shan so unforgettable.
Upon arrival at the yurt camp in the Kek-Kiya Valley, take time to soak in the panoramas and relax in this peaceful, remote setting. In the evening, you’ll have excellent opportunities for photography capture the glow of the sunset over the
mountains and rivers, and enjoy the tranquil light as day turns to dusk.
If the skies are clear after dark, don’t miss the chance to photograph the dazzling night sky, rich with stars and the Milky Way stretching across the high-altitude heavens.
Overnight:Stay in a yurt camp or guest house.
8 Day
Kek-Kiya - Kol-Suu lake - Naryn
After breakfast, set off on a trek from Kek-Kiya to the remote and breathtaking Kel-Suu Lake, one of Kyrgyzstan’s most stunning high-altitude lakes. The trail winds through dramatic mountain valleys, across rivers, and along lush alpine meadows. (Horse riding is available for an additional fee.) As you approach Kel-Suu Lake, admire its famous narrow gorge and the striking turquoise waters
surrounded by steep cliffs. Spend time exploring the area, taking photos, and soaking in the serene, untouched mountain scenery. Return to Kek-Kiya in the afternoon and spend the night in a comfortable guesthouse.
9 Day
Kek-Kiya – Tash-Rabat – Naryn (Approx. 7–8 hours of driving)
After breakfast, depart from Kek-Kiya and drive to the historic Tash-Rabat, a well-preserved 15th-century caravanserainestled high in the mountains. Explore this remarkable stone complex, which once provided shelter for Silk Road travelers and their caravans. Take in the stunning alpine meadows and rugged mountain peaks surrounding the site, and learn about the rich history and culture of the region.
After visiting Tash-Rabat, continue the drive to Naryn (approx. 7–8 hours in total). Check in at your hotel and enjoy an evening of rest and relaxation.
10 Day
Naryn – Bishkek (Approx. 316 km / 5–6 hours of driving)
After breakfast at your hotel in Naryn, depart for Bishkek, the capital of Kyrgyzstan. Enjoy a scenic drive through the mountain passes, rolling valleys, and picturesque villages of central Kyrgyzstan. Along the way, make stops to take photos of the dramatic landscapes, stretch your legs, and soak in the natural beauty of the Tien Shan mountains. You may also have the opportunity to visit local markets or small roadside villages to experience the authentic Kyrgyz lifestyle. Arrive in Bishkek in the afternoon. Check in at your hotel and enjoy some free time to relax, explore the city, or take a leisurely walk in the capital before the evening.
Almaty
After breakfast, your guide and driver will meet you in the hotel lobby and take you on a scenic drive (approximately 25 km) to Shymbulak Ski Resort.
Enjoy a visit to the resort and a cable car ride, offering spectacular views of the snow-capped peaks of the Tian Shan Mountains.
In the afternoon, return to the city for a sightseeing tour of Almaty. The program includes visits to Panfilov Park, the iconic Zenkov Cathedral, the Central State Museum (closed on Tuesdays), and Republic Square.
After the excursion, return to your hotel.
2 Day
Almaty – Charyn Canyon – Kolsai Lakes (Overnight at a hotel in Saty Village / Kolsai area)
After breakfast, depart from Almaty for a scenic
drive to Charyn Canyon (approximately 200 km, 3–4 hours). Explore the dramatic landscapes of this natural wonder, often referred to as the “Grand Canyon of Kazakhstan.” Enjoy a walk through the canyon, where you will see its impressive rock formations shaped by wind and time, followed by a short rest to take in the views. Afterwards, continue the journey to Saty Village and visit the picturesque Kolsai Lake (approximately 90 km from Charyn Canyon). Take a leisurely walk along the lake and enjoy the peaceful mountain scenery. In the evening, arrive in Saty Village for an overnight stay at a local guesthouse or hotel in the Kolsai area.
3 Day
Kaindy Lake – Kegen Border Crossing – Karakol
After breakfast, drive to the stunning Kaindy Lake (approximately 30-45 minutes to drive from Saty/Kolsai). This lake is famous for its submerged forest and crystal-clear mountain waters. Enjoy a walk along the shore and take in the unique scenery.
After visiting the lake, continue to the Kegen border crossing between Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan (approximately 109 km / 2 hours). Complete the border formalities, and you will be met by your Kyrgyz guide on the other side. From the border, drive to Karakol (approximately 120 km / 2 hours). Upon arrival, enjoy a brief city sightseeing tour of Karakol, including its main landmarks. After the tour, check in at your hotel
and relax.
4 Day
Karakol – Southern Shore of Issyk-Kul Lake
Start the day with an early departure from Karakol to the Altyn-Arashan Mountains (approximately 35 km/2-3 hours by UAZ (old soviet transportation) 4x4 due to the rough, bumpy mountain road). Enjoy an adventurous ride throug stunning landscapes as you ascend into the mountains. Arrive at the impressive Altyn-Arashan Gorge, and hike to a panoramic viewpoint to admire the towering
snow-capped peaks, majestic fir forests, and drifting clouds. This is a perfect spot for photos and to soak in the serene mountain scenery. Possibility to go to hot springs After the excursion, return to Karakol (approximately 35 km / 2-3 hours ) and check in at a local guesthouse for your overnight stay.
Note* Possibility to do kayaking for extra fee.
5 Day
Karakol - south shore of Issyk-Kul lake, 180 km,
3-4 hours of driving.
After breakfast at your guesthouse in Karakol, depart for the southern shore of Issyk-Kul Lake (approximately 180 km / 3–4 hours). Along the way, visit the striking Djety-Oguz Gorge, known for its dramatic red rock formations, and explore the Kok-Zhaiyk Valley, where you can enjoy a scenic hike to a picturesque waterfall.
Continue to the enchanting Barskoon Gorge. Take a walk through the lush Tien Shan spruce forest to discover two spectacular waterfalls, where cascading water creates thundering sounds and shimmering rainbows. Next, explore the magical “Fairy Tale” Canyon, wandering along its narrow trails and marveling at the unique rock formations and peaks. End the day with check-in at the cozy Tong Marina Hotel, perfectly situated for relaxation along the southern shore of
Issyk-Kul Lake.
6 Day
Southern Shore of Issyk-Kul Lake – Son-Kul Lake (Approx. 300 km / 4-5 hours of driving)
After breakfast, depart from the southern shore of Issyk-Kul Lake and head towards the breathtaking Son-Kul Lake. Along the way, enjoy a fascinating eagle-hunting show, a traditional Kyrgyz spectacle showcasing the skill of local hunters and their majestic birds. Stop to explore the scenic Aksay Canyons, with their dramatic rock formations, and have lunch en route.
Continue the journey to Son-Kul Lake, a high-altitude alpine lake surrounded by rolling pastures. Experience an authentic overnight stay in traditional yurts, immersing yourself in the unique nomadic lifestyle and tranquil mountain scenery.
7 Day
Son-Kul lake - Kek-Kiya (5-6 hours journey)
Depart from Son-Kül and begin the scenic journey toward the Kek-Kiya (Kok-Kiya) Valley — a drive of approximately 200 km and around 5–6 hours through dramatic mountain landscapes and high-altitude passes.
Enjoy a hearty breakfast before setting off toward the Kek-Kiya Valley, a remote and breathtaking region nestled in the Naryn area of Kyrgyzstan. Along the way, savor the spectacular views of alpine meadows, rugged mountain peaks, and winding river valleys that make this part of the Tien-Shan so unforgettable.
Upon arrival at the yurt camp in the Kek-Kiya Valley, take time to soak in the panoramas and relax in this peaceful, remote setting. In the evening, you’ll have excellent opportunities for photography capture the glow of the sunset over the
mountains and rivers, and enjoy the tranquil light as day turns to dusk.
If the skies are clear after dark, don’t miss the chance to photograph the dazzling night sky, rich with stars and the Milky Way stretching across the high-altitude heavens.
Overnight:Stay in a yurt camp or guest house.
8 Day
Kek-Kiya - Kol-Suu lake - Naryn
After breakfast, set off on a trek from Kek-Kiya to the remote and breathtaking Kel-Suu Lake, one of Kyrgyzstan’s most stunning high-altitude lakes. The trail winds through dramatic mountain valleys, across rivers, and along lush alpine meadows. (Horse riding is available for an additional fee.) As you approach Kel-Suu Lake, admire its famous narrow gorge and the striking turquoise waters
surrounded by steep cliffs. Spend time exploring the area, taking photos, and soaking in the serene, untouched mountain scenery. Return to Kek-Kiya in the afternoon and spend the night in a comfortable guesthouse.
9 Day
Kek-Kiya – Tash-Rabat – Naryn (Approx. 7–8 hours of driving)
After breakfast, depart from Kek-Kiya and drive to the historic Tash-Rabat, a well-preserved 15th-century caravanserainestled high in the mountains. Explore this remarkable stone complex, which once provided shelter for Silk Road travelers and their caravans. Take in the stunning alpine meadows and rugged mountain peaks surrounding the site, and learn about the rich history and culture of the region.
After visiting Tash-Rabat, continue the drive to Naryn (approx. 7–8 hours in total). Check in at your hotel and enjoy an evening of rest and relaxation.
10 Day
Naryn – Bishkek (Approx. 316 km / 5–6 hours of driving)
After breakfast at your hotel in Naryn, depart for Bishkek, the capital of Kyrgyzstan. Enjoy a scenic drive through the mountain passes, rolling valleys, and picturesque villages of central Kyrgyzstan. Along the way, make stops to take photos of the dramatic landscapes, stretch your legs, and soak in the natural beauty of the Tien Shan mountains. You may also have the opportunity to visit local markets or small roadside villages to experience the authentic Kyrgyz lifestyle. Arrive in Bishkek in the afternoon. Check in at your hotel and enjoy some free time to relax, explore the city, or take a leisurely walk in the capital before the evening.
Tour fees can vary based on group size
Tour fees can be calculated on an individual basis
- Transportation with English-speaking driver - guide
- (4 pax -one 4 WD transportation)
- (5-6 pax - two 4 WD transportation)
- Accommodation for 10 nights with breakfast in twin rooms (4*-3*)
- Entrance fees to sites listed
- Permission to preborder zone
- Meals from day 2 to day 10
- Meals in Bishkek
- Horse-riding 100 USD per person for one day on day 5
- Soft drinks
- International air tickets
- Beverages
- Tips and gratuities
- Any personal expenses
- Any services not included in the above itinerary
- Felt carpet show $45
- Free cancellation - 90 days prior to meeting time (Taxes and transaction fee is not refundable)
- 50% Refund - 40 to 50 days prior to meeting time
- No Refund - Within 30 days prior to meeting time
Tour payment can be made by transfer or through the link with a credit card
Prepayment should be 20% from total cost of a tour
Prepayment is not refundable
Prepayment should be 20% from total cost of a tour
Prepayment is not refundable
- If a place of visit is closed to visitors it will be replaced with an alternative. During major events, accommodation may be changed and replaced with a similar category
- Sequence of itinerary and hotels given is subject to changes without prior notice.
- Hotel accommodation is subject to availability. No reservations are made before confirmation received from client. If mentioned hotels are not available, we will substitute them with other hotels of similar class.
- Domestic flights are subject to change in timing and availability. If mentioned flight is not available, it will be changed to convenient one depending on tour program