What Makes This Journey Special?
This itinerary is an expedition into one of Kyrgyzstan’s most remote regions, where the road itself becomes part of the journey. You’ll pass through several natural zones—green valleys of Chong-Kemin, canyons, the high‑altitude lake Son Kul, Naryn passes, and finally Kel‑Suu, a lake hidden among sheer cliffs and inaccessible to mass tourism.
The route is designed so that you gradually immerse yourself in the atmosphere: from a gentle start with comfortable transfers to wilder, more isolated locations.
There’s no rush, but there is a sense of true travel, space, and silence. This tour is for those who want not just to see Kyrgyzstan, but to live it through the road, nature, and changing landscapes.
Tour Program
6 days traveling through central and inner Tian‑Shan with a visit to Kel‑Suu—one of the country’s rarest and most impressive sites.
Day 1
Bishkek → Burana → Chong‑Kemin
Meet at Manas Airport and depart toward Tokmak. Light breakfast on the way.
Visit Burana Tower, a historic complex from the Great Silk Road era.
Continue to Chong‑Kemin Gorge. Walk through the valley, relax outdoors, dinner.
Overnight in a guesthouse.
Day 2
Chong‑Kemin → Kok‑Moynok → Kokor → Son Kul
After breakfast head to Kok‑Moynok canyons for walks, photo stops, and panoramic views.
Drive to Kokor, lunch, then continue to Lake Son Kul.
Stay in a yurt camp; evening horse walk along the lake shore.
Dinner and overnight in yurts.
Day 3
Son Kul → Naryn → Kel‑Suu
Breakfast, then depart for Naryn.
Pass through the picturesque “33 Parrots” section—a winding road with waterfalls and viewpoints.
Lunch in Naryn, then drive to the Kel‑Suu area—the most remote point of the route.
Check in, dinner, and rest.
Overnight in a guesthouse or yurts.
Day 4
Lake Kel‑Suu
Hike to Lake Kel‑Suu. The lake opens gradually—narrow, surrounded by high cliffs, with water that shifts from blue to turquoise.
Free time: walks, photo sessions, boat rides.
Lunch.
Optional bath (extra fee).
Dinner and overnight on site.
Day 5
Kel‑Suu → Chong‑Kemin → Issyk‑Ata
Depart toward Bishkek.
Lunch in Chong‑Kemin, then head to the resort area of Issyk‑Ata.
Check in and relax; visit pools—an opportunity to unwind after the road.
Dinner and overnight at the complex.
Day 6
Issyk‑Ata → Bishkek → Departure
Breakfast, then return to Bishkek.
Short city tour of the town, souvenir shops.
Transfer to Manas Airport. End of tour.
Expedition to Lake Kel-Suu
6 days / 5 nights
Dates: June 16 to June 21; June 23 to June 28; June 30 to July 5
Format: Individual tour
Group size: Up to 4 people
Transport: Jeep
Start/Finish: Bishkek
Important Information
Pricing & Reservations
To receive a price quote tailored specifically for your group, please submit a request and we will prepare an individual offer.
Alternatively, send us an email at Sales@atc.kg, and our manager will contact you to arrange the booking.
The cost of the tour: $1,150
Important Tour Information:
— Groups are formed in advance; individual bookings are possible upon request.
— Prices are listed per person.
— Rates may vary depending on the season, selected accommodation level, and additional services.
— For corporate and private groups, pricing can be customized based on your preferences.
What’s Included in the Price?
– Accommodation as per itinerary (guesthouses / yurts / hotel)
– Meals as per itinerary
– Transport (jeep with driver)
– Guide services
– Entrance tickets along the route
– Horse walk at Son Kul
– Signature picnic
Not Included in the Price:
– International flights
– Bath at Kel‑Suu
– Extra fee for single occupancy rooms
– Personal expenses
– Alcoholic beverages
– Tips
Note
Prices may adjust depending on season, accommodation level, and weather conditions—especially around Kel‑Suu.
Frequently Asked Questions
What to Take with You? (April – October)
In the Kyrgyz Republic, summer means bright sunshine, mountain winds, and cool nights. To make your trip comfortable and easy, make sure to pack the right clothes and essentials.
Clothing
It’s hot in the valleys during the day, so bring lightweight cotton or linen clothing that breathes and protects from the sun. A hat, cap, or scarf is a must. Sunglasses and sunscreen with high SPF will help you avoid sunburn. In the mountains, the heat gives way to coolness — in the evening and morning you’ll need a warm sweater or windbreaker. A light raincoat or jacket will come in handy in wet weather.
Footwear
For city walks — comfortable sneakers.
For the mountains — sturdy trekking boots with good soles.
For relaxing by lakes or in yurts — light flip-flops or sandals.
First Aid Kit
Each group is provided with a basic first aid kit, antiseptic, and wet wipes from our tour company — we take care of your health and safety. You should bring your own personal medicines and any specific medications you may need. Don’t forget sunscreen and mosquito repellent.
Electronics & Photography
Our buses are equipped with chargers for your devices, but we recommend bringing your own as well. Don’t forget your smartphone with a camera and a power bank — in the mountains, power outlets may not be available. We suggest downloading offline maps and guides in advance.
If you want to capture the best moments of your trip, you can use the services of our professional photographer and videographer. You’ll get beautiful photos and videos as a keepsake.
Preparing for Your Trip
Before traveling to the Kyrgyz Republic, it’s important to plan everything well so that nothing distracts you from enjoying the beauty of the country.
Visa
Citizens of most CIS countries do not need a visa — just take your passport and head for adventure! For tourists from other countries, an e-visa can be obtained via the website eVisa.kg — it’s fast and convenient, and we are always ready to assist with instructions.
Currency
The national currency in the Kyrgyz Republic is the som (KGS). It’s best to exchange money at official exchange offices or banks in Bishkek and other major cities. In the mountains and small settlements, cash is often the only payment method, so bring enough soms with you.
Weather
Summer weather is changeable: hot sun in the valleys is replaced by coolness in the mountains, and short rains are possible. Before your trip, check the forecast to know exactly what to pack. Evenings and nights in the mountains can be chilly, so don’t forget warm clothes.
Communication
Our comfortable buses have Wi-Fi, so you can always stay connected. Most hotels also offer internet. If you want stable connectivity on the go, we can provide you with a tourist SIM card at a good rate. Even without it, urban areas have good coverage, and mobile networks work in most popular tourist spots in the mountains.
What Are the Etiquette Tips?
Hospitality and respect for traditions are highly valued in the Kyrgyz Republic. When entering a house or yurt, it is customary to remove your shoes. Do not refuse offered food — it’s a sign of respect to the hosts. In rural areas, dress modestly and behave politely, respecting local customs.
What Dishes Are in Kyrgyz Cuisine?
Beshbarmak — boiled meat with noodles, a symbol of Kyrgyz cuisine.
Lagman and manty — popular meat dishes with an Eastern touch.
Kymyz — fermented mare’s milk, a traditional nomadic drink.
Flatbread baked in a tandoor — served with almost every meal.