9 Days: Altyn Emel & Heavenly Lakes
Day 1: Almaty – Altyn Emel National Park – Overnight in Altyn Emel
Departure from Almaty towards the vast landscapes of Altyn Emel National Park. Along the way, enjoy changing scenery from steppes to desert mountains.
Explore the park’s famous natural highlights, including unique rock formations and wide open valleys.
Overnight near Altyn Emel, surrounded by nature and silence.
Day 2: Altyn Emel – Charyn Canyon – Saty Village – Overnight in Saty
Continue the journey to the spectacular Charyn Canyon. Walk through the famous Valley of Castles, where wind and time have shaped dramatic red rock formations.
After exploring the canyon, drive to the mountain village of Saty.
Evening rest in a cozy guesthouse.
Overnight in Saty village.
Day 3: Kaindy Lake – Kolsai Lake – Overnight in Saty
Visit the unique Kaindy Lake, known for its submerged forest and turquoise waters. A short walk leads you to the lake, surrounded by alpine scenery.
Later, head to Kolsai Lake for a scenic hike along the shore, through pine forests and mountain landscapes. This is one of the most beautiful hiking days of the trip.
Return to Saty village for overnight.
Day 4: Saty – Karakol – Karakol City Tour – Overnight in Karakol
Cross the border into Kyrgyzstan and continue to Karakol.
After arrival, enjoy a city tour highlighting Karakol’s multicultural heritage:
Holy Trinity Orthodox Church
Dungan Mosque
Local markets and historical streets
Overnight in Karakol.
Day 5: Jety-Ögüz Gorge – Maiden Braids Waterfall – Ak-Suu Hot Springs – Overnight in Karakol
Travel to the famous Jety-Ögüz (Seven Bulls) Gorge, one of Kyrgyzstan’s iconic natural landmarks.
Enjoy a short hike to the Maiden Braids waterfall, surrounded by red cliffs and green valleys.
In the afternoon, relax in the Ak-Suu hot springs (optional).
Return to Karakol for overnight.
Day 6: Karakol Ski Base – Issyk Kul South Shore – Barskoon Gorge – Fairy Tale Canyon – Bokonbaevo – Overnight in Bokonbaevo
Start the day with a visit to the Karakol ski base area and nearby viewpoints.
Continue along the scenic south shore of Issyk Kul Lake.
Stop at Barskoon Gorge for a short hike to waterfalls, then visit the colorful Fairy Tale Canyon, famous for its unusual sandstone formations.
Arrival in Bokonbaevo village for overnight.
Day 7: Eagle Hunting Show – Song Kul Lake – Overnight in Yurts
In the morning, experience a traditional eagle hunting demonstration, showcasing Kyrgyz nomadic culture.
Afterward, drive into the high mountains to Song Kul Lake, a remote alpine lake surrounded by rolling pastures and nomadic yurts.
Overnight in traditional yurts near Song Kul Lake.
Day 8: Song Kul – Kok Moinok Canyons – Burana Tower – Bishkek – Overnight in Bishkek
Descend from Song Kul and head toward Bishkek.
Visit the Kok Moinok Canyons, known for their impressive red sandstone formations.
Later, explore the Burana Tower, an ancient Silk Road monument with stone balbals.
Arrival in Bishkek for overnight.
Day 9: Bishkek City Tour – Farewell
City tour of Bishkek, including main squares, parks, and local highlights.
Free time for souvenirs and final walks.
End of the program. Farewell and departure.
Price Information
Price includes:
- All accommodations (guesthouses & local stays)
- All meals
- Drinking water throughout the trip
- All entrance fees to national parks and attractions
- Comfortable transportation
- English-speaking driver-guide
- All guide’s expenses (food, accommodation, fuel, etc.)
Not Included:
- Optional activities (hot springs, museums)
- Personal expenses
- Travel insurance
- Border fees (if applicable)
Price
$3760/ 1 person
$2240/ 2 people
$1735/ 3 people
$1482/ 4 people