With 90% of the country above 1500m in altitude, Kyrgyzstan, the “Switzerland of Central Asia” is the perfect destination for adventurers and nature enthusiasts thirsty for epic mountain scenery. Kyrgystan is home to thousands of glaciers, storied nomadic horseback cultures, and ancient beliefs that mountains, glaciers, rivers, and lakes have souls. Islam also plays a role in the land of disappearing lakes, snow leopards, and wild horses that gallop through the grasslands.
While in Kyrgystan you’ll have a chance to dive deep into this ancient nomadic culture that has been revived after more than a century. Set out across the central Asian plains and take in the stunning beauty until you feel that you can’t absorb more splendor.
Feel the emotion of haunting tunes played on traditional nomadic instruments and meet the welcoming people who bring this majestic land to life. Sense the pulse of history in your veins—without compromising on your contemporary comforts. Immerse yourself in the breathtaking nature and return home with part of Kyrgyzstan in your heart.
Day 1
Arrival at Bishkek
Welcome to the magical land of Kyrgyzstan! Upon landing at the airport, our guide will be there to warmly welcome you. We’ll arrive at the lively city of Bishkek, and dedicate our time to explore this unique city and prepare for our upcoming adventures in the high mountains. We’ll get to know our team, who will accompany us in the coming days on our journey to the high mountains.
Towards the evening, we’ll head out for a shared meal at one of the local and excellent restaurants that Bishkek has to offer.
Dinner and overnight: Bishkek
Day 2
Bishkek to Chon Kemin
After breakfast, pick up our fully equipped 4WD rental cars and begin our journey. We will depart from the bustling city towards the Chon Kemin Valley. On the way, we’ll pass through one of the lush valleys in the region, traveling along the border between Kyrgyzstan and Kazakhstan, crossing the mighty Chu River that flows between them. After 3 hours we will dive headfirst into the spirited nomadic game of Ylak Tartysh. Picture two teams, a goat, and a whole lot of excitement!
As the day unfolds, our journey will lead us to the stunning Chon Kemin valley, where we’ll be treated to dinner and a cozy overnight.
Dinner and overnight: Chon Kemin area
Day 3
Sonkul – High Mountain Wonders Await
After breakfast, we’ll set off to Sonkul. Enjoy a jaw-dropping drive through the dramatic Boom Gorge and Kochkor, featuring a heart-pounding crossing over the 33 Parrots pass. Along the way, we’ll make pit stops to admire enchanting waterfalls.
Our final destination is Son-Kul, a place where crystal-clear lake waters are embraced by the majestic Son-Kul and Moldo Too mountain ranges.
In the afternoon embark on an easy hike around the lake before enjoying a local dinner and sleeping in traditional Yurts.
Dinner and overnight: Son-kul – Yurts
Day 4
Dive into Ancient History
Following breakfast, prepare for an epic road trip to Tashrabat. We’re in for a breathtaking journey, crossing the enchanting Moldo Ashuu pass and Melsis pass.
As the sun begins to set, we’ll reach Tashrabat, a captivating ancient Caravan Serai. The night’s rest will be in traditional Yurts, adding a touch of authenticity to your adventure.
Dinner and overnight: Tashrabat – yurts
Day 5
Kelsuu Lake – Discover Mystical Waters
After breakfast, get ready for another memorable drive leading us to the mystical Kelsuu Lake. Along the way, you’ll be amazed by the stunning Aksai range with its glorious snow-capped peaks. Kelsuu Lake promises a one-of-a-kind Zodiac boat ride on its turquoise waters. We’ll enjoy dinner and experience a night’s rest in Yurts, embracing the Kyrgyz wilderness.
Dinner and overnight: Kelsuu – yurts
Day 6
Naryn – A Scenic Mountain Drive
In the morning, we’ll say goodbye to the captivating Kelsuu Lake and set off for Naryn. Brace yourself for a day filled with striking sights as we cross rivers, witness glaciers, and marvel at unique geological formations.
After an inspiring day, we’ll arrive in Devin for dinner and a restful night at a hotel.
Dinner and overnight: Naryn area
Day 7
Kajisay – Adventure Amidst the Tien Shan Mountains
Following breakfast, we’re off to explore the heart of the ice-capped Tien Shan Mountains. Our journey takes us through remote regions, picturesque valleys, and majestic mountain ridges. As we conquer the famous Jalpak pass, we’ll continue our route to Lake Issykul, where we’ll spend the night in a local village.
Dinner and overnight: Issyk Kul
Day 8
Karakol – Gorges and Valleys Exploration
Our day kicks off with breakfast in serene Kajisay. From here, we’ll hop on a captivating drive, heading northeast. As we traverse rivers, visit hidden lakes, and absorb the breathtaking landscapes, we’ll delve into the charming Barskoon and Jety Ogyz Gorges, each with its own unique natural beauty.
The evening brings us to Karakol, where you’ll enjoy dinner and a comfy night’s stay at a hotel.
Dinner and overnight: Karakol area
Day 9
Karakol – Altyn Arashan Adventure
After breakfast, we’re ready to meet our drivers for an unforgettable 4WD old Russian military off-road vehicle journey to Altyn Arashan. Picture lush greenery, Alpine meadows, and pristine landscapes as we venture into this magnificent gorge. At the top of the gorge, go on a short hike and rejuvenate in a hot spring bath. Later, enjoy lunch along the beauty of the gorge before returning to Karakol.
In the evening, prepare for a home-cooked Dungon dinner complemented by an enthralling Folklore Show with Manaschi.
Dinner and overnight: Karakol area
Day 10
Cholpon Ata – Lake Issykul Exploration
Enjoy a relaxed breakfast at the hotel before meeting our drivers for the day’s adventures. Today, we’re heading to Cholpon Ata, stopping at the scenic Semenovska Gorge and Grigorevska Gorge along the way.
This afternoon we enjoy a boat ride and swimming activities on the stunning Lake Issykul.
Dinner and overnight: Issyk Kul (north)
Day 11
Bishkek – Rafting and Farewell Dinner
After breakfast, gear up for an adrenaline-pumping rafting experience on the Chu River.
As we make our way back to Bishkek, it’s time to say farewell to your trusty 4WD vehicles.
In the evening, we’ll gather for a heartwarming farewell dinner and spend the night at the hotel.
Dinner and overnight: Bishkek
Day 12
Departure from Bishkek – Relive Your Kyrgyz Adventure
In the early morning, we’ll make arrangements for your smooth transfer to the airport as you begin your journey back home, cherishing the incredible memories from your Kyrgyz adventure.
The authentic experiences, attention to detail, and expert guides you expect from Vered Hasharon—now in Kyrgyzstan, Morocco, and Namibia!
With over 50 years of proven experience crafting exclusive travel worldwide, we know how to deliver iconic adventures that go above and beyond the standard tour. Now, we’re leveraging that experience to give you access to some of the world’s hidden gems. Our expert guides have been working in Kyrgyzstan, Morocco, and Namibia for 20+ years, getting to know the people, the landscapes, and the cultures firsthand so they can give you a unique insider’s perspective into these vibrant ancient cultures and thrill you with their unparalleled natural beauty.
At Vered Hasharon, we make every moment count. You get the best of both worlds–the adventure you crave and the peace of mind that everything has been taken care of, down to the tiniest details. All that’s left for you to do is to sit back and enjoy the trip as you stimulate your senses in these unforgettable journeys through history and time.
Treat yourself this summer—explore the Silk Road on Vered Hasharon’s Kyrgyzstan trips!
Float through the waters of the Disappearing Lake on our proprietary Zodiac boats, and spend the night in the area so there’s time to enjoy Kyrgystan’s secret garden at leisure. And our ending night is an unforgettable surprise—but no spoilers!
Unique local accommodation: We offer exclusive glamping sites that give you the chance to immerse yourself in Kyrgyzstan’s natural beauty. Equipped with comfortable beds and pillows, warm quilts, soft linens, warm showers, and bathrooms, you can enjoy nature in absolute comfort. And when we’re in cities you’ll enjoy charming, unique, and top-quality hotels.
Forget about napping on tour buses! On our trips, your heart will expand as you self-drive your own rental 4WD vehicle through breathtaking landscapes, from grassy expanses to narrow canyons and steep mountain passes.
You don’t need any previous off-roading experience as our experienced guides will lead you safely through any obstacles on the way to the beautiful hidden places accessible only via off-road routes and mountain passes.
We include all the highlights you expect and much more!
From Tash Rabat on the Silk Road, to a secret vista of the Disappearing Lake; from the breathtaking canyons that frame the Issyk Kol Lake to mountain passes in the heart of Tien Shan, you’ll have the chance to experience everything that amazing Kyrgyzstan has to offer.
We don’t leave anything to chance. Every group is accompanied by four staff members at all times, including a VHS guide and three professional Kyrgyz staff members. Two high-power jeeps follow the group to bring you the goodies that will keep you pampered and happy throughout the trip, and evacuate group members if needed.
Our Kyrgyzstan trip includes everything and provides 3 meals a day. Breakfasts will take place where we overnight, and most dinners as well. As we travel to remote and beautiful places, most of our lunches are prepared as picnics. We have a mobile kitchen, ensuring that we can prepare delicious food using the finest local ingredients, wherever we are during lunchtime. Trust us that all picnics will take place next to a beautiful river or another amazing location.