Colours of Kyrgzystan
Discover the spectacular landscapes of one of Central Asia’s most picturesque countries. From the white peaks of the Tien Shan mountain range and the deep-blue of Lake Issyk-Kul, to the striking red cliffs of Djety-Oguz and the green alpine meadows of Chon Kemin valley, this tour explores the country’s most colourful highlights and the nomadic lifestyle of some of its inhabitants.
9 nights from £2195pp
Call us on 01756 706505 (+44 1756 706505) to discuss this holiday
Colours of Kyrgzystan Itinerary
Day 1: Fly to Bishkek
Fly overnight from London (regional connections available) to Bishkek, via Istanbul, with Turkish Airlines. (N)
Day 2: Bishkek
Early morning arrival. Transfer to the Orion Hotel Bishkek for 2 nights (including immediate occupancy). Afternoon sightseeing tour of Bishkek with a visit to Osh Bazaar. (B, L)
Day 3: Chon Kemin valley
Drive to Chon Kemin valley. On arrival, have lunch at a local guest house. This afternoon, walk through a village and enjoy panoramic views of the valley, where alpine meadows are surrounded by mountain peaks. There will be an opportunity to take a gentle hike within the Chon Kemin gorge. (B, L, D)
Day 4: Lake Issyk-Kul
Drive to the northern shore of Lake IssykKul, via Boom gorge. Visit the prehistoric petroglyphs that lie around the nearby town of Cholpon-Ata and stay overnight at the Karven Issyk-kul hotel (or similar). (B)
Day 5: Karakol
Take a boat ride on the lake then travel to a nearby gorge for a walk among the stunning scenery. In the afternoon, drive around the northern lake shore to Karakol, stopping en route at a museum dedicated to the great Russian explorer Nikolay Przhevalsky. Stay for 2 nights at the Green Yard Guest House (or similar). (B)
Day 6: Karakol
Travel to the Djety-Oguz gorge, known for the ‘Broken Heart’ and ‘Seven Bulls’ red rock formations. Return to Karakol to visit the wooden church and mosque. (B)
Day 7: Bokonbaevo village
Drive along the southern shores of Lake Issyk-Kul, stopping at several scenic viewpoints along the way. Stop at Fairy Tale canyon, where it is possible to take a hike (weather permitting). On arrival at Bokonbaevo village, visit a workshop and see a carpet making demonstration. Continue to the shores of Lake Issyk-Kul for an overnight stay in a yurt camp*. (B, D)
Day 8: Chonkurchak
This morning, meet a local eagle hunter to learn about this tradition followed by a show. Later, travel to Chonkurchak via Burana Tower, an ancient 24-metre minaret. Stay overnight at Supara Chunkurchak. (B, D)
Day 9: Bishkek
Day at leisure to relax in this green mountain setting or enjoy a walk through the pristine scenery. Drive back to Bishkek this afternoon and stay overnight at Orion Hotel Bishkek. (B)
Day 10: Fly to London
Morning transfer to the airport and fly to London, via Istanbul, with Turkish Airlines. (B)
Meal basis
As per itinerary – B: Breakfast, L: Lunch, D: Dinner, N: No meals.
Important information
*Yurt camp
Please note that the yurt camp accommodation on day 7 is very basic and has shared bathroom facilities.
Discovery tour
Kyrgyzstan is a rewarding wilderness destination and accommodation should be considered basic outside of Bishkek. A reasonable level of fitness is required for this tour, due to several gentle hikes. This tour is therefore best suited to the hardier traveller.
Single supplement
From £445pp.
Private & tailor-made travel
This itinerary can be taken privately on a date that suits you, for which guideline prices are shown. Alternatively, it can be tailored to your exact requirements.
Tour Highlights
- Scenic boat ride on Lake Issyk-Kul, the second highest navigable lake in the world
- Walk beneath the striking red sandstone cliffs of Djety-Oguz
- Discover the prehistoric petroglyphs at Cholpon-Ata
- Stay overnight in a yurt on the shores of Lake Issyk-Kul
- Learn about the ancient art of hunting with eagles
- Stay in 3- & 4- star accommodation
- Small group size - maximum 26 people
Price Includes
Basic accommodation throughout
Small group size - maximum 26 people
International flights
Transfers in air-conditioned vehicles
Experienced local tour manager
9 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 3 dinners
Guided sightseeing
All entrance fees
- Back to the Central Asia Tours Page...
- Back to the Cox and Kings Page...