Best of Kazakhstan & Kyrgyzstan: Lakes, Canyons & Tian Shan Mountains (10 Days)

Welcome to the southern capital of Kazakhstan! After arriving and refreshing at the hotel, we head straight to the heart of the Zailiyskiy Alatau mountains. Our first stop is the legendary Medeo Gorge and the Shymbulak Ski Resort. As the cable car lifts you higher, hold your breath and admire the panoramic views of the city framed by snow-capped peaks. At the top (3,200m), it feels like the whole world is at your feet. It’s a paradise for nature lovers—walk along snowy slopes, breathe the crystal-clear air, and enjoy the mountain silence. In the afternoon, we conquer another peak—Kok-Tobe Hill. A scenic cable car ride takes you to the best viewing platform in the city. From here, Almaty fits in the palm of your hand: sparkling skyscrapers, winding rivers, and cozy parks create a breathtaking sunset panorama.

• Included: Accommodation, lunch, (Dinner is not included) entrance tickets to Shymbulak and Kok Tobe cable cars.

We leave the city behind and drive towards the Charyn Canyon, often called the "Grand Canyon of Central Asia." The 3-hour drive flies by as the landscape shifts to dramatic steppes. We will hike through the Valley of Castles, marveling at the red rock formations sculpted by wind and time, and walk along the rushing Charyn River. Next, we venture into the mountains to discover the mystical Kaindy Lake. Formed by an earthquake in 1911, this "Sunken Forest" is famous for the submerged spruce trunks rising eerily from the turquoise water. Located at 2,000 meters, it is a true hidden gem of the Tien Shan. By evening, we arrive at Saty village to experience authentic local hospitality in a cozy guesthouse.

• Included: Accommodation (guesthouse), breakfast, lunch box/cafe, dinner, ecological fees for Charyn and Kaindy National Parks.

Start the day with a visit to the "Pearls of the Northern Tien Shan"—the Kolsai Lakes. These three alpine lakes are surrounded by dense pine forests and reflect the mountain peaks like a mirror. We will take a relaxing walk along the shores of Kolsai-1, soaking in the tranquility of pristine nature. After crossing the border into Kyrgyzstan, we head to the fairytale valley of Jyrgalan. Nestled deep in the mountains, this village is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Upon arrival, we settle into a traditional yurt camp or a cozy guesthouse. Jyrgalan is famous for its endless green pastures, and today includes a horseback riding adventure. Saddle up and ride through meandering trails, breathing in the fresh mountain air. We end the day with a hearty traditional dinner.

• Included: Accommodation (yurt camp/guesthouse), breakfast, lunch, dinner, horseback riding tour.

Today is for adventure! We leave Jyrgalan and board a rugged 4WD military truck (UAZ or Gaz-66) to conquer the rough mountain road to Altyn Arashan. This gorge is famous for its natural hot springs set against a backdrop of spruce forests and snowy peaks. Relax your muscles in the healing thermal waters—the ultimate reward for the bumpy ride. Later, we descend to Karakol town, a cultural melting pot on the eastern shore of Issyk-Kul Lake. We will visit the unique Dungan Mosque (built without a single nail) and the wooden Russian Orthodox Church. Dinner will feature the famous local dish, Ashlan-Fu, or other regional specialties.

• Included: Accommodation (hotel), breakfast, dinner, 4WD transfer to Altyn Arashan, hot springs fee.

We embark on a journey along the southern shore of Issyk-Kul. Our first stop is Jety-Oguz ("Seven Bulls"), famous for its massive red sandstone cliffs. We will hike to a panorama point to see the "Broken Heart" rock formation. Next, we visit the Barskoon Valley to see two majestic waterfalls. Feel the mist on your face as you stand before these powerful cascades.

After that we follow dirrectly to Arabel Plateau (3,850 m) – On the Roof of the World! We'll reach the glacial Arabel Plateau at an altitude of 3,850 meters! Experience absolute freedom among the snow-capped peaks (even in summer!). Right here, amid the majesty of the Tien Shan, a well-deserved picnic awaits! It'll be a picknick you'll never forget!

The highlight of the evening is the Skazka (Fairytale) Canyon. Walking here feels like landing on Mars: bizarre rock shapes and vibrant red, orange, and yellow clay landscapes create a photographer's paradise. We finish the day in Bokonbaevo village, where we will dive into culture with a live ethnic music show performed by local masters. Sleep tonight in a traditional yurt on the lake shore.

• Included: Accommodation (yurt camp), breakfast, lunch, dinner, ethnic music show.

After breakfast, we meet a real Berkutchi (Eagle Hunter). You will witness a demonstration of this ancient nomadic art and learn how eagles are trained to hunt foxes and wolves. We continue with a short hike in the atmospheric Ak-Sai Canyons for panoramic views of the lake, followed by a swim in the crystal-clear waters of Issyk-Kul. After lunch in Kochkor village (famous for felt crafts), we begin our ascent to the high mountains. Our goal is Son Kul Lake, located at a staggering 3,016 meters. This alpine lake is surrounded by lush pastures (jailoo) where nomads graze their herds in summer. There is no electricity or internet here—only pure nature, millions of stars, and silence. We sleep in authentic felt yurts.

• Included: Accommodation (yurt camp), breakfast, lunch, dinner, Eagle Hunting demonstration.

Wake up to a sunrise over the high-altitude steppe. We drive over the spectacular 33 Parrots Pass and stop at a beautiful waterfall on the Terskey River. After a lunch stop in Naryn city, we head deep into the border zone to reach the Kok-Kya Valley. This is one of the most remote and wild parts of Kyrgyzstan. Our destination is the vicinity of Kel-Suu Lake, the "Pearl of the Ak-Sai Valley." We check into a guesthouse or yurt camp near the river, surrounded by towering cliffs that look like medieval fortresses.

• Included: Accommodation (guesthouse/yurt), breakfast, lunch, dinner.

Today we explore one of Kyrgyzstan's most mysterious locations. We embark on a horseback ride (or hike) to Kel-Suu Lake (3,500m). Hidden among jagged cliffs near the Chinese border, this glacial lake is famous for its unstable nature—sometimes it disappears underground, but usually, it shines with an unreal turquoise color. Weather permitting, we will take a boat ride between the sheer cliffs—an unforgettable experience. After a picnic lunch in this wild landscape, we descend back to the valley and drive to Naryn city to enjoy the comfort of a hotel and a hot shower after our high-altitude adventures.

• Included: Accommodation (hotel), breakfast, lunch, dinner, horseback riding to the lake, optional boat ride (weather permitting).

We leave the mountains behind and drive to the capital, Bishkek. Watch the landscape transform from rugged gorges to green valleys and finally to urban scenery. Upon arrival, we check into our hotel and head out for a Bishkek City Tour. We will visit Ala-Too Square, watch the changing of the guard at the flagpole, and stroll through the oak parks and boulevards. The city has a unique mix of Soviet architecture and modern vibrancy. In the evening, we gather for a Farewell Dinner. It’s time to toast to new friends, share photos, and celebrate the completion of an epic 10-day expedition across two countries.

• Included: Accommodation (hotel), breakfast, lunch, farewell dinner (Dinner is not included).