Kyrgyzstan Explorer: Enilchek Ghost Town, Jyrgalan Valley & Nomadic Culture(7-Day)

Route: Bishkek – Burana Tower – Chon Kemin (220 km)

Your adventure begins! After arrival or meeting in Bishkek, we head towards the majestic mountains.

• Kegety Gorge: Our first nature stop is the picturesque Kegety Gorge, famous for its waterfalls and panoramic views.

• Burana Tower (UNESCO): We step back in time at the Burana Tower, an 11th-century minaret from the Karakhanid Empire. This ancient Silk Road monument is one of the oldest structures in Central Asia, surrounded by cryptic "balbal" stone warriors.

• Arrival in Chon-Kemin: We arrive at the Chon-Kemin National Park, a lush valley known for its pine forests. You will have leisure time to walk in the village and breathe the fresh mountain air before a hearty welcome dinner.

Included: Lunch, Dinner, Entrance tickets to Burana Tower. Accommodation: Guesthouse in Chon-Kemin.

Route: Chon Kemin – Kok Moinok – Karakol (340 km)

After a delicious breakfast, we start our journey to the eastern tip of Lake Issyk-Kul.

• Kok-Moinok Canyons: A hidden gem! We make a stop to explore these vibrant, Mars-like red canyons. It’s a photographer's paradise with unique clay textures and labyrinths.

• Scenic Drive: The road takes us along the mountain chains, passing through the Boom Gorge and along the lake's shore, showcasing alpine meadows and forested slopes.

• Karakol City: In the evening, we arrive in Karakol, the adventure capital of Kyrgyzstan. We check into a comfortable hotel and head to the best ethnic cafe in town to taste the famous Ashlan-Fu or other Dungan/Kyrgyz specialties.

Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner. Accommodation: Hotel in Karakol.

Route: Karakol – Chon Ashuu Pass (3800m) – Enilchek – Jyrgalan

Warning: This is a day of extreme adventure!

• The High Pass: We tackle the challenging road over the Chon-Ashuu Pass, reaching a breathtaking elevation of 3,900 meters. You will be surrounded by glaciers and eternal snow.

• Enilchek Ghost Town: We descend into the secret valley to visit the abandoned Soviet mining town of Enilchek. Once a bustling settlement, it is now nearly deserted, creating a surreal, cinematic atmosphere perfect for unique photography.

• Hot Springs: Nearby, we will relax in natural wild hot springs (weather/water level permitting) right by the riverbed.

• Jyrgalan Valley: After the expedition, we transfer to the fairy-tale valley of Jyrgalan for a peaceful evening in the mountains.

Included: Breakfast, Lunch (picnic/guesthouse), Dinner, Sauna. Accommodation: Cozy Yurt Camp or Guesthouse in Jyrgalan.

Route: Jyrgalan Valley – Karakol

Wake up in Jyrgalan, a hidden gem known as a freeride paradise in winter and a "Kumis therapy" haven in summer.

• Active Morning: Today is about immersing yourself in untouched nature. You can hike to the Kok-Bel Waterfall or enjoy an unforgettable horseback ride to Lake Turaluu Kol, surrounded by lush green pastures.

• Relaxation: Breathe in the scent of pine trees and enjoy a picnic with a view.

• Return to Hub: In the late afternoon, we transfer back to Karakol for a restful night before our South Shore adventure.

Included: Breakfast, Packed Lunch, Dinner, Horseback riding. Accommodation: Hotel in Karakol.

Route: Karakol – Jeti Oguz – Barskoon – Skazka – Bokonbaevo (250 km)

We embark on the famous South Shore route, packed with geological wonders.

• Jeti-Oguz (Seven Bulls): We visit these iconic red sandstone cliffs and hike to the panorama point to see the "Broken Heart" rock formation.

• Barskoon Waterfalls: A drive up the gorge to see impressive waterfalls, historically significant as the route of Yuri Gagarin (the first cosmonaut).

• Skazka (Fairy Tale) Canyon: A must-see location with whimsical clay shapes resembling castles and dragons, created by wind erosion. The colors here are mesmerizing.

• Ethno-Night in Bokonbaevo: We arrive at the village of Bokonbaevo. The highlight of the evening is a Traditional Folklore Show featuring local musicians. You will sleep in a traditional yurt, experiencing the true nomadic lifestyle.

Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Musical Ethno-Show. Accommodation: Yurt Camp in Bokonbaevo.

Route: Bokonbaevo – Ak Sai Canyons – Bishkek

Our final day is dedicated to the ancient traditions of the Kyrgyz people.

• Eagle Hunting Show: We meet a real Berkutchi (Eagle Hunter). You will witness a thrilling demonstration of how Golden Eagles hunt and learn about the bond between the bird and the nomad.

• Ak-Sai Canyons: A stop at the "Valley of Forgotten Rivers" for a short panoramic walk and final views of Lake Issyk-Kul's azure waters.

• Return to Bishkek: We drive back to the capital, full of memories. We gather for a farewell dinner to celebrate the end of our expedition.

Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Eagle Hunting demonstration. Accommodation: Hotel in Bishkek