The Alpine Jewels Expedition: Son Kul & Kel Suu Lakes (3-Day 4×4 Adventure)

Son Kul Lake
Son Kul Lake nothen side

The Ultimate 2-Lake Expedition: Son Kul & Kel Suu 4×4 Tour

Discover Kyrgyzstan’s most spectacular high-altitude lakes in this action-packed 3-day jeep tour. Sleep in traditional yurts at Son Kul Lake (3016m) and venture deep into the remote border zone to witness the emerald waters and vertical cliffs of Kel Suu Lake. Highlights include the famous 33 Parrots Pass, Kok-Moinok Canyons, and horseback riding. A true off-road adventure for nature lovers!

820 $

Per person

3 Day

Duration

Jun - Sep

Available

Kyrgyzstan

Country

Itinerary

Day 1: Red Canyons & The Song of the Alpine Lake

Route: Bishkek – Kok Moinok – Orto Tokoi – Kalmak Ashuu Pass – Son Kul Lake (320 km)

Your expedition begins with a morning pick-up from your hotel. We leave the city heat behind and head into the cool embrace of the Tian Shan mountains.

  • Kok-Moinok Canyons: Our first stop is a hidden gem often missed by standard tours. These vibrant red and yellow sandstone canyons offer a Mars-like landscape perfect for unique photography.

  • Orto-Tokoi Reservoir: We drive past this stunning azure reservoir, a mirror reflecting the surrounding peaks.

  • Ascent to Son Kul: We cross the majestic Kalmak Ashuu Pass (3,446 m). As we descend, the vast panorama of Lake Son Kul opens up. Sitting at 3,016 meters, this alpine lake is surrounded by lush jailoos (summer pastures) dotted with nomad yurts.

  • Nomadic Night: We arrive at a traditional yurt camp. Tonight, you will experience the true nomadic lifestyle, enjoy a dinner of local delicacies, and marvel at the Milky Way, which shines incredibly bright at this altitude.

Included: Lunch, Dinner, Accommodation in a Yurt Camp.

 

 

Day 2: The Serpentine Road & The Wild Frontier

The Valley of Kok Kyaya river

Route: Son Kul – 33 Parrots Pass – Naryn – Kel Suu Lake (approx. 280 km, mostly off-road)

After a rustic breakfast, we begin our journey to one of Kyrgyzstan's most remote locations.

  • 33 Parrots Pass (Terskey Torpok): We exit Son Kul via one of the most famous and photogenic passes in the country—a winding serpentine road that drops dramatically into the valley. We will stop at the Son Kul Waterfall for a refreshing break.

  • Journey to the Border Zone: After a stop in Naryn town, the real off-road adventure begins. We drive into the deep At-Bashy region, approaching the Chinese border. The landscapes change to rugged, wild cliffs and valleys. Note: We will pass through a military checkpoint (Border Permit required).

  • Arrival at Kel Suu: By evening, we reach the Kel Suu valley. This area feels untouched by time. We settle into our yurt camp surrounded by towering cliffs.

Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Accommodation in a Yurt Camp.

 

Day 3: The Jade Lake & Return to Civilization

Pass 33 Parrots

Route: Kel Suu Lake – Naryn – Bishkek (approx. 450 km / Long driving day)

Warning: Today requires an early start due to the long distance back to the capital.

  • Expedition to Kel Suu: After breakfast, we embark on the highlight of the trip—visiting Lake Kel Suu. Depending on the trail conditions and your preference, we will reach the lake on horseback or by hiking (approx. 2 hours round trip).

    • The Lake: Kel Suu is famous for its emerald-green water (color depends on season) and the sheer limestone cliffs that rise vertically from the water, creating a fjord-like appearance. If water levels permit, you can take a boat ride into the caves (optional).

  • The Long Road Home: After lunch at the camp, we begin the long transfer back to Bishkek. We will make short stops for rest and snacks in Naryn.

  • Arrival: We arrive in Bishkek late in the evening (approx. 21:00 – 22:00), concluding an intense but unforgettable expedition.

Included: Breakfast, Lunch at yurt camp, Horseback riding to the lake, Transfer to Bishkek.

Map

Price

2 pax – $1050 per person twin room accommodation

3 pax – $870 per person twin room accommodation

4 pax – $720 per person twin room accommodation

  • Transportation through the whole route
  • English speaking guide-driver
  • Accommodation according to the itinerary based on twin shared room
  • Entrance fees to all of the sights
  • Meals full board  program
  • Horse for the horse back riding towards the Kel Suu lake
  • Entrance fee to Burana towe
  • Horseman in Kel Suu lake regeon
  • Water 1l per day per person
  • Local taxes
  • Alcohol beverages
  • Excursions not included in the program
  • Tips for driver and other personnel
  • Any personal expenses: international calls, bar, souvenirs, etc.ар, 

Additional Info

  • Passport (domestic or international), but it must be the one for which the border pass is issued.
  • Refillable water bottle
  • Hat & gloves (especially from May–June and Sept–Oct)
  • Warm jacket + sweatshirt + raincoat.
  • Comfortable shoes (sneakers or trekking boots) + sandals or flip-flops for the shower and beach.
  • Sunglasses 
  • Sunscreen 
  • Comfortable pants for horseback riding
  • Personal hygiene products (personal first aid kit with products if you take them on a regular basis) 
  • Swimsuit 
  • Mosquito spray 
  • Charger for phone or camera 
  • Beach towel.

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They trusted Us!

Our dear clients about our guides and tours.

Aymeric Marchadier
We had an amazing time discovering Kyrgyzstan with our guide, Sergey ! He was truly exceptional — knowledgeable, friendly, and always attentive to our needs. Thanks to him, we experienced the country’s incredible landscapes and culture in the best possible way. We couldn’t have asked for a better guide. Highly recommended!
Afnas AG (optimus.93)
We visited Kyrgystan for 8 days from UAE (June 24th - July 2nd, 2023), We were crafted with a wonderful itinerary according to our needs with really lovely stays. I must say the whole trip was an unforgettable experience and Kyrgyzstan is still running in our minds. I express our huge sincere thanks to Sergei who guided us throughout the trip.
Adrian
Adrian
Local Expert on Google
We had a great time with Sergej during our three-week trip through Kyrgyzstan. His sense of humor, local knowledge, and reliability contributed to unforgettable experiences during our trip. Sergej has a keen sense for tourists' needs and was always concerned about our well-being. We can wholeheartedly recommend him as a tour guide. Thank you for your guidance, Sergej.
Andre Fritzsch
Andre Fritzsch@username
Wir hatten eine Tour durch Kasachstan und Kirgistan mit Guide Sergej. Es war eine wundervolle und abwechslungsreiche Reise. Alles war zu unser vollsten Zufriedenheit vorbereitet und organisiert. Vielen Dank noch einmal an Sergej.

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