4 Days in the Heart of UNESCO: Sary-Chelek and the Hidden Lake Kara-Kamysh

• Expedition Start: Meet-up at 7:00 AM and departure at 7:30 AM. Prepare for a full day as we drive along one of the most beautiful roads in Central Asia.

• Above the Clouds: We will conquer the majestic Too-Ashuu Pass (3180 m). From the summit, a panorama opens up to the high-altitude Suusamyr Valley, where thousands of horse herds graze in summer.

• Power of Water: Next stop is the marble Chychkan Canyon, where a rushing river cuts through the cliffs. This is an ideal spot for lunch and photos.

• Turquoise Sea: We descend towards the Toktogul Reservoir. The contrast between the blue water and the desert mountains creates spectacular landscapes.

• Arrival: In the evening, we arrive at Arkit village, surrounded by walnut forests. Check-in at a cozy guesthouse and enjoy a traditional home-cooked dinner.

Included: Transfer, Guide, Lunch (en route), Dinner, Guesthouse Accommodation.

• The Main Gem: After breakfast, we head deep into the Sary-Chelek Biosphere Reserve. Our main focus is Sary-Chelek Lake ("Yellow Bowl"), located at 1873 m and surrounded by dense spruce and walnut forests.

• 5-Lakes Trek: Sary-Chelek is actually a chain of lakes. Your guide will lead a light trek to see the smaller lakes: Kylaa-Köl, Iiri-Köl, Aram-Köl, and others. Each boasts a unique color and character.

• Relaxation: Free time for meditation by the water. Optionally (extra cost), you can arrange a motorboat ride on the lake or a short horseback ride.

• Evening: Return to Arkit for dinner and reflection on the day’s stunning views.

Included: Transfer, Guide, Breakfast, Picnic Lunch, Dinner, Eco-Fees, Guesthouse Accommodation.

• Hidden Route: Today we venture into a wilder, more secluded part of the reserve—to Kara-Kamysh Lake (Kara-Suu). The road is scenic and often requires off-road transport, adding an element of adventure.

• Kara-Kamysh: This lake captivates with its pristine beauty. Unlike Sary-Chelek, there are fewer tourists, enhancing the feeling of wilderness. The lake was formed by a massive rock slide.

• Picnic and Walks: We will have a picnic lunch on the shore and enjoy walks, offering unique photo opportunities of the crystal-clear water and surrounding rock formations.

• Return: We return to our base in Arkit in the evening for a final dinner and unwinding.

Included: Transfer (Off-Road/4x4), Guide, Breakfast, Picnic Lunch, Dinner, Eco-Fees, Guesthouse Accommodation.

• Secret Lake: Immediately after leaving Arkit, we make a stop in the Itagar Gorge to visit another hidden wonder—Saz-Köl Lake. Its greenish waters framed by cliffs provide a beautiful final chord to our time in the reserve.

• Beach Break: On the way back, we stop at the shore of the Toktogul Reservoir. You will have the opportunity to swim in the warm water (seasonal) and refresh yourself before the long drive.

• Journey Home: Transfer back to Bishkek via the Chychkan Gorge and Too-Ashuu Pass. Lunch en route. Arrival in the capital late in the evening.

Included: Transfer, Guide, Breakfast, Lunch (en route).