What Makes This Journey Special?
This route isn’t just a trip — it’s a deep dive into the heart of mountainous Kyrgyzstan. Every day feels like a new scene from a living film: waterfalls, red cliffs, alpine meadows, and a turquoise lake sitting at 3,900 meters.
You don’t just watch — you walk, feel, and breathe it all in. The silence of the forest, the roar of the river, tea by the waterfall, stars above the mountains — all genuine. No rush, no crowds, no stage sets.
This is a journey of contrasts and rhythm: from a gentle start in Ala-Archa to the climb up Ala-Kul, ending with a bittersweet return. There are no tourist displays here — only living culture, people, earth, and sky becoming a part of you.
Tour Program
Five days in the heart of Kyrgyzstan — more than just a trip, it’s a film of living landscapes. You’ll encounter the icy waterfalls of Barskoon, the turquoise mirror of the high-altitude Ala-Kul, the red cliffs of Jeti-Oguz, misty pine gorges, and pastures where herds of horses roam.
At every turn, panoramic views of Tian Shan’s snow-capped peaks, alpine meadows waist-high with flowers, rivers rushing over stones, and a starry sky that feels within reach.
This tour is for those who want to step off the city path and truly breathe in the spirit of the mountains.
Day 1
Airport – Bishkek – Ala-Archa National Park
Arrival at Manas International Airport. The fresh morning air of the Chui Valley greets you as your guide meets you. An unforgettable week lies ahead.
A smooth drive to Bishkek (35 km) passes through fields where the sunrise paints the sky in copper tones. The mountains gradually draw closer, merging with the city skyline.
After a short rest, the journey continues to Ala-Archa National Park (40 km). As the road climbs higher, the city fades into the distance, giving way to coniferous forests and rocky gorges. The air is filled with the scent of spruce and sun-warmed earth.
The trek to Ak-Sai Waterfall begins at the alpine camp and follows the rushing river upstream. With every step upward, you’ll see lush fir trees, alpine meadows, rugged rock terraces, and breathtaking views of the glacier and the summit of Semenov-Tian-Shansky Peak. Lunch at a local restaurant.
Return to Bishkek. City tour. Dinner at a local restaurant. Overnight at the hotel.
Day 2
Bishkek — Red Cliffs and Alpine Landscapes of Jeti-Oguz — Karakol
The morning begins with preparations and departure from Bishkek to Karakol (400 km). Breakfast at the hotel. On the way, stop to visit the Burana Tower — a monument of the Karakhanid era. The road then winds through the Boom Gorge, where steep granite cliffs and the roar of the mountain river accompany every turn. Beyond the pass, Issyk-Kul reveals itself — a shimmering mirror stretched between the sky and the surrounding mountain ranges.
Along the route are pastures dotted with yurts, herds of horses, and colorful fields of flowers. At times, the road runs right along the lakeshore — wild and untouched nature within arm’s reach.
A stop in Cholpon-Ata includes a visit to the Rukh Ordo Cultural Center and the open-air Petroglyph Museum.
The journey continues along the northern shore of Issyk-Kul toward Karakol.
Lunch en route. After a short rest, transfer to Jeti-Oguz, where the legendary red rock formations await: the “Seven Bulls” — a massive ridge sculpted from crimson stone — and “Broken Heart,” a red monolith wrapped in local legends.
A trail leads deeper into the gorge: green meadows, the sound of the river, coniferous forests, and summer pastures with yurts. In the afternoon light, the cliffs turn gold. A scenic walk through the valley with gentle ascents and many photo stops.
By evening — return to Karakol. Dinner at a local restaurant. Check-in and rest.
Day 3
Karakol – Altyn-Arashan
Early morning. Breakfast at the hotel. Early departure to Altyn-Arashan (35 km), located at an altitude of 3,200 m, by off-road vehicles (UAZ or GAZ). Although the distance is short, the off-road journey takes about 2.5 hours each way. The route leads through dense spruce forests and high-mountain valleys.
Picnic lunch in nature. Leisurely walk through the gorge.
Descent from Altyn-Arashan and return to Karakol. Dinner at a local restaurant. Overnight at the hotel.
Day 4
Karakol — Barskoon — Bishkek (400 km)
Breakfast at the hotel. After breakfast – a city tour: the Dungan Mosque, the Orthodox Church, the lively local bazaar, and a visit to the handicraft center.
Then the journey continues to Barskoon Gorge (80 km), famous for its picturesque waterfalls with poetic names such as “Leopard’s Tears,” “Old Man’s Beard,” “Champagne Splash,” and “Manas’ Bowl.” The road once again follows the southern shore of Issyk-Kul.
Next, a stop to visit Skazka Canyon, known for its whimsical formations of clay and rock. The canyon’s multicolored layers of minerals and sediment create a unique and dramatic landscape.
Afterward, transfer to Bishkek (329 km). Hotel check-in. Dinner at a local restaurant. Overnight stay.
Day 5
Transfer to Manas International Airport (35 km).
Journey Through Mountains and Lakes
Duration: 5 days / 4 nights
Tour Route: Bishkek — Ala-Archa — Tokmok — Karakol — Jeti-Oguz — Barskoon — Bishkek
Season: April — November
Tour Type: Trekking + Cultural
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.
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?
Transportation:
— Private transfers by comfortable car or minibus throughout the entire route
— Airport meet & greet and drop-off
— Off-road transfer (UAZ) to Altyn-Arashan Gorge
Accompaniment:
— Professional guide accompanying the group throughout the journey
Excursions & Activities:
— Trekking:
• Ala-Archa National Park
• Jeti-Oguz Gorge
• Barskoon Waterfalls
— Stop at the Issyk-Kul lakeshore for relaxation
— Visits to scenic viewpoints and landmarks
— Cultural and natural attractions along the route with immersion into local traditions
Accommodation — based on double occupancy:
— 2 nights in a hotel in Bishkek
— 2 nights in a hotel in Karakol
Meals:
— Full board throughout the tour (three meals per day)
— Bottled water 1.5 L per person
Not Included in the Price:
— International airfare
— Rental or purchase of trekking poles
— Medical insurance
— Additional beverages
— Personal expenses and souvenirs
Tour Notes:
Trekking shoes and warm clothing are required, as it can be cold in the mountains.
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.