We invite you on a tour:
“Where the Clouds Are Born: A Journey through Mountains and Lakes”
Tour Program
Four days in the heart of Kyrgyzstan — not just a trip, but a living film made of landscapes. Expect the icy waterfalls of Barskoon, the turquoise mirror of the high-mountain Ala-Kul Lake, the red cliffs of Jeti-Oguz, misty pine gorges, and pastures where herds of horses roam. At every turn — panoramas of the snowy Tian Shan peaks, alpine meadows bursting with flowers, rivers rushing over stones, and a starry sky that feels closer than ever. This tour is for those who want to leave behind the city trails and feel the breath of the real mountains.
Day 1
Fairy Tale Canyon & the Southern Shore of Issyk-Kul
06:00–07:00 — Meeting point near the Eternal Flame. Today we’ll head out along the very heart of Issyk-Kul.
07:00–08:00 — Departure toward Issyk-Kul via the southern shore. Short stop for shopping on the way. Passing through Boom Gorge — granite cliffs, sharp turns, and the roar of the mountain river. Breakfast in Boom: fragrant tea brewed with spring water in a samovar and hot kattama (layered bread with onion) — the perfect start of the day. After the pass, Issyk-Kul reveals itself — shimmering like a mirror, spread between the sky and mountain ranges. Along the way: pastures with yurts, herds of sheep and horses, fields of wildflowers. Sometimes the road goes right along the water — wild, stony, untouched.
14:00–15:00 — Lunch en route. After lunch — a short walk to the lakeshore. Here you just want to stop and breathe deeper. The landscape seems designed for meditation. Visit to Fairy Tale Canyon, where wind and rain have sculpted whimsical red-rock formations and patterns.
16:00–19:00 — Arrival in Tosor village. Overnight stay in a guesthouse with eco-yurts and cottages.
19:00–21:00 — Dinner at the guesthouse. Optional horseback ride through the scenic surroundings with mountain panoramas (please inform your guide in advance).
21:00 — Free time and rest. Tomorrow: mountains, waterfalls, and glacial lakes await.
Day 2
Barskoon — Waterfalls Among the Sky and Pines
07:00–08:00 — Breakfast at the guesthouse. Departure for Karakol.
09:30–11:00 — Drive to Barskoon Gorge (~1.5 hrs). The road runs along Issyk-Kul’s southern shore, especially beautiful in the morning — mist over the water, swaying boats, herds of horses against the blue mountains. On the way, the monument to Yuri Gagarin greets you like a sign: you’re ascending higher than usual.
11:00–16:30 — Trekking along Barskoon Waterfalls (~13 km · Moderate · Elevation gain ~500 m). Trail passes several waterfalls: roaring “Leopard’s Tears,” majestic “Manas’ Bowl.” Step by step, higher into pine forests, rocky ledges, and alpine air filled with the scent of firs, damp earth, and icy streams. Picnic by the creek — everything tastes better here.
16:30–19:00 — On the way to Karakol, stop for a trek in Jety-Oguz Gorge. See the famous red rock formations “Seven Bulls” and “Broken Heart.” Trail winds through alpine meadows, yurts, pine forests, and a rushing river. Evening sunlight paints the cliffs golden. ~10 km walk (round trip) with photo stops. The return drive offers cinematic lake views at sunset.
19:00 — Arrival in Karakol, a cozy town with traces of 19th-century charm.
20:00–21:00 — Dinner at “Dastorkon” restaurant: lagman, kuurdak, pomegranate salads, and oriental desserts. Overnight stay at a local hotel.
Day 3
Ascent to Ala-Kul & Descent Through the Clouds
06:00–07:00 — Early breakfast at the hotel: omelet with cheese, flatbread, honey, tea.
07:00–09:00 — Off-road transfer to Altyn-Arashan valley. The ride follows a wild river, with jeeps confidently climbing rocky slopes and crossing streams. The higher you go, the quieter it gets, filled with pine scent and mountain chill.
09:00–15:00 — Trekking to Ala-Kul Lake (~14 km round trip · Elevation gain ~900 m · High difficulty). A challenging trail with steep climbs, rocks, and sometimes snow even in summer. But the scenery is breathtaking — valleys, glaciers, alpine meadows. At 3,900 m, Ala-Kul appears: turquoise, silent, guarded by snowcapped peaks. Picnic at the shore.
15:00–17:00 — Descent back to Altyn-Arashan. Easier pace, more photo stops. River noise and cool winds accompany you.
17:00 — Overnight stay in a yurt camp in Altyn-Arashan, among peaks, fir forests, and rushing streams.
19:00 — Dinner at the yurt camp. A rewarding evening meal after a full day of trekking. Quiet night in the mountains.
Day 4
Return Journey & Farewell to the Mountains
06:00–07:00 — Early breakfast: fresh bread, honey, homemade yogurt, thyme tea.
08:00–11:00 — Descent to Karakol by off-road vehicles. A spectacular ride along mountain passes and rocky tracks.
11:00 — Arrival in Karakol. Short city tour: lively local bazaar, elegant Dungan Mosque built without nails. Departure along the northern shore of Issyk-Kul — now you’ve seen both sides of the lake.
14:00 — Lunch en route.
19:00–20:00 — Arrival in Bishkek. Farewell to the group.
Where the Clouds Are Born: A Journey through Mountains and Lakes
Duration: 3 nights / 4 days
Highlights: trekking, folklore, workshops, canyons, ethnography, excursions
Group size: 8–12 people
Important Information
Pricing
Tour Information:
— Group size: 8-12 people
— Groups are formed in advance; private bookings are available upon request.
Important:
— Prices are quoted per person for the specified group size.
— Rates may vary depending on the season, chosen accommodation level, and additional services.
— For corporate and private groups, pricing can be calculated based on your preferences.
What’s Included in the Price?
Transportation
Private transfers by comfortable minibus throughout the route
Off-road transfer (Oasic) to Altyn-Arashan Gorge
Guide Services
Professional guide accompanying the group throughout the journey
Tour photographer capturing the key moments of the trip
Excursion Program & Activities
Trekkings:
• Jeti-Oguz Gorge
• Barskoon Waterfalls
• Hike to Ala-Kul Lake
Stop at Issyk-Kul beach
Visits to viewpoints and monuments
Cultural and natural locations along the route with immersion into local traditions
Accommodation
1 night in a guesthouse in Tosor village
1 night in a hotel in Karakol
1 night in a yurt camp in Altyn-Arashan
Meals
Breakfasts included throughout the trip Dinners in Tosor and Altyn-Arashan
Not Included in the Price:
— International flights
— Medical insurance
— Additional beverages
— Personal expenses and souvenir
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.