9-Day Kazakhstan & Kyrgyzstan Nature & Nomadic Adventure
Day 1: Almaty – Altyn Emel National Park – Aktau & Katutau Mountains – Basshi
Our adventure begins with an early departure from Almaty towards the vast landscapes of Altyn Emel National Park.
Today we explore the spectacular Aktau and Katutau Mountains, some of the most unusual geological landscapes in Kazakhstan. The colorful clay hills, volcanic-looking formations, and endless open spaces create an almost otherworldly atmosphere.
We will have time to walk around, take photographs, and enjoy the dramatic scenery of the national park.
In the evening, we arrive in Basshi Village, the main gateway to Altyn Emel National Park.
Overnight in Basshi.
Day 2: Singing Dune – Charyn Canyon – Saty Village
We start the morning with a visit to the famous Singing Dune, one of the most iconic natural attractions of Altyn Emel.
The enormous golden dune rises above the surrounding steppe and offers spectacular panoramic views. When the sand moves under the right conditions, the dune can produce a distinctive humming or “singing” sound.
Afterward, we leave Altyn Emel and drive towards Charyn Canyon, one of the most impressive natural landmarks of Kazakhstan.
We explore the famous Valley of Castles, where towering red sandstone walls form spectacular shapes resembling ancient fortresses.
In the afternoon, we continue towards the mountain village of Saty, located near Kolsai and Kaindy Lakes.
Overnight in Saty.
Day 3: Kaindy Lake – Kolsai Lake – Saty
oday is dedicated to some of the most beautiful mountain landscapes of Kazakhstan.
In the morning, we travel to the mysterious Kaindy Lake, famous for its turquoise water and the trunks of spruce trees rising dramatically from the lake. Surrounded by the Tian Shan Mountains, Kaindy is one of the most natural places in the region.
After Kaindy, we continue to Kolsai Lakes National Park.
We spend the rest of the day enjoying the spectacular scenery of the Kolsai Mountains, alpine forests, and crystal-clear mountain lakes. There will be time for walking, photography, and simply enjoying the peaceful mountain environment.
In the evening, we return to Saty Village.
Overnight in Saty.
Day 4: Saty – Karakol – Karakol City Tour – Hot Springs
After breakfast, we depart from Saty and continue our journey towards Kyrgyzstan.
We cross the Kazakhstan–Kyrgyzstan border and make our way to Karakol, one of the most interesting towns in eastern Kyrgyzstan.
After arrival, we explore Karakol on a relaxed city tour, visiting its historical and cultural landmarks and getting a first impression of this unique mountain town.
In the evening, we head to the hot springs, where you can relax and recover after the journey while surrounded by the spectacular mountains of the Tian Shan.
Overnight in Karakol.
Day 5: Karakol – Jeti-Oguz – Barskoon Waterfalls – Skazka Canyon – Bokonbaevo
Today we continue along the southern shore of Lake Issyk-Kul, one of the largest alpine lakes in the world.
Our first major stop is the legendary Jeti-Oguz Valley, famous for its striking red sandstone cliffs. The name means “Seven Bulls”, referring to the distinctive rock formations.
We then continue to the beautiful Barskoon Valley, where mountain trails lead to impressive waterfalls surrounded by forests and high peaks.
Later, we visit Skazka Canyon, also known as Fairy Tale Canyon. Wind and water have sculpted the colorful sandstone into fantastic shapes, creating a natural landscape that looks almost like a fairy-tale world.
By evening, we arrive in Bokonbaevo, a traditional village on the southern shore of Issyk-Kul.
Overnight in Bokonbaevo.
Day 6: Eagle Hunting Show – Song-Kul Lake – Yurt Camp
The morning begins with one of the most authentic cultural experiences of the journey — a traditional eagle hunting demonstration.
We will see how Kyrgyz eagle hunters preserve the ancient nomadic tradition of training and hunting with golden eagles, an important part of Kyrgyz cultural heritage.
After the show, we continue our journey deeper into the mountains towards Song-Kul Lake.
Located at an altitude of around 3,000 meters, Song-Kul is surrounded by vast green pastures, mountains, and traditional nomadic camps. In summer, local shepherds bring their livestock here and live in yurts, continuing a lifestyle that has existed in Central Asia for centuries.
In the evening, enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of the lake, the open mountain landscape, and the traditional Kyrgyz yurt experience.
Overnight in a traditional yurt at Song-Kul.
Day 7: Song-Kul – Chon-Kemin Valley – Shabdan
Enjoy a relaxed morning at Song-Kul Lake.
Take some time to walk around the lake, photograph the surrounding mountains, and experience the peaceful atmosphere of the highland pastures before we begin our descent.
After lunch, we leave Song-Kul and continue towards the beautiful Chon-Kemin Valley, a region known for its forests, rivers, mountain landscapes, and traditional villages.
By evening, we arrive in Shabdan, where we will spend the night.
Day 8: Chon-Kemin National Park – Horse Riding or Hiking – Shabdan
Today is dedicated to exploring the natural beauty of Chon-Kemin National Park.
You can choose between two activities depending on your preference:
Horse Riding:
Enjoy a traditional horseback journey through the mountain valleys and open landscapes, experiencing the region in the same way generations of local nomads have travelled through these mountains.
Hiking:
For those who prefer walking, enjoy a scenic hike through the valleys and forests of Chon-Kemin, surrounded by spectacular mountain views.
The day is designed to be relaxed and active, giving you time to enjoy nature away from the main tourist routes.
Overnight in Shabdan.
Day 9: Chon-Kemin – Bishkek – Bishkek City Tour – End of Tour
After breakfast, we leave the peaceful landscapes of Chon-Kemin and drive towards Bishkek, the capital of Kyrgyzstan.
Upon arrival, we explore the city on a Bishkek city tour, visiting its main landmarks, squares, parks, and historical sites.
This final day gives us an opportunity to experience the contrast between the remote mountain landscapes of Kyrgyzstan and the lively atmosphere of its capital.
After the city tour, the journey comes to an end.
End of the tour in Bishkek.
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)