Highlights of Kyrgyzstan and Kazakhstan - 9 Days
Who is this trip for
Genders
- Female45%
- Male55%
Average age
Start / End
- Bishkek
- Almaty
Physical rating
Group size
1 - 16Meals included
16Highlights
- Learn about the diverse cultures of Central Asia
- Soak in the breathtaking mountain scenery
- Connect with the locals during yurt and village guesthouse stays
- Wander the Soviet streets of Bishkek
- Take in the beauty of Song Kul Lake and Kaindy Lake
- Trek to the sunken forest
- Learn how yurts are built.
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Summary
Discover a part of the world that's getting noticed for its beautiful landscapes and its warm people. This nine-day tour takes you off the beaten path and into the cultures of Kyrgyzstan and Kazakhstan. Begin in Bishkek enjoying city time with optional activities that get you closer to the colourful and artsy culture here. Spend two nights in a traditional yurt and get to know the welcoming families of the nomadic Kyrgyz culture. Finish in Almaty but not before driving through the stunning Charyn Canyon.
Itinerary
Day 1
Bishkek
Welcome to Kyrgyzstan's artsy capital and cultural hub, situated at the base of the Tian Shan mountain range. There are no planned activities until the evening welcome meeting, so get out there and explore!
Day 2
Bishkek/Chon Kemin
After breakfast, embark on a city tour of Bishkek before travelling to the serenity of Chong-Kemin Valley. Along the way, stop at one of Kyrgyzstan's oldest sights, the Burana Tower and learn about this ancient structure, rare in nomadic culture. Tonight, stay in a cozy guest house run by Karal Dobo Villagers. Soak in the stunning scenery while exploring the village and savour a home-cooked traditional dinner.
Day 3
Chong-Kemin/Song Kul
In the morning, opt for a hike to the nearby mountains or explore the famous gorges of Chong-Kemin. In the afternoon, enjoy the scenic drive along the Kalmak-Ashuu mountain pass to Song Kul Lake. Immerse yourself in Kyrgyz culture with an overnight stay in a traditional yurt. Experience daily nomadic life and wander the breathtaking landscape. With an altitude of 3,016 meters above sea level, it's possible to experience four seasons in one day! Indulge in delicious home-cooked cuisine for dinner, then get cozy in the yurt around the stove.
Day 4
Song Kul/Tamga
Tamga village was once famous for its Soviet-era military sanatorium, where Soviet cosmonauts relaxed and recovered after space flights.
Day 5
Tamga/Karakol
This morning we head to Ak-Orgo Workshop Centre, a G for Good supported organization, to observe how traditional yurts are built and learn about the importance of this Kyrgyz craft. Continue the drive to Jety Oguz, where we stop to visit the beautiful Seven Bulls rock formations, enjoy a picnic lunch with a stunning view and hike to the Jety Oguz viewpoint. Finish the drive to Kyrgyzstan's 4th largest city - Karakol and enjoy a city tour upon arrival, visiting notable sites like the Russian Holy Trinity Orthodox Church and the pagoda-style Dungan Mosque, built by Chinese Muslims in the early 20th Century.
Day 6
Karakol/Saty Village
Cross the border into Kazakhstan on the journey to Saty Village, part of the Kolsay Lakes National Park. On arrival, jump in a 4x4 vehicle for the ride to Kaindy Lake, then embark on a trek to explore the sunken forest. Soak in the bright hues and marvel at the eerie sight of submerged trees. Spend the night in a homestay and indulge in traditional Kazakh meals for a true Kazakh experience.
Day 7
Saty Village/Almaty
Depart early this morning for Almaty, the former Kazakh capital, stopping along the way to marvel at Charyn Canyon. Boasting stunning shades of red, orange, and brown, the Charyn Canyon is a natural wonder comparable in beauty to the Grand Canyon. On arrival in Almaty, join your CEO for an orientation walk around your hotel.
Day 8
Almaty
Explore the amazing city of Almaty on a city tour, visiting sights such as Independence Square, Zenkov Cathedral, Panfilov's Park, and the striking WWII memorial. Enjoy a free afternoon to continue the adventure through Almaty. Opt to climb Green Hill for panoramic views, visit the local markets, or sip coffee in one of the plentiful cafés.
Day 9
Almaty
Depart at any time.
What's Included
Accommodation
Hotels (3 nts), village guesthouse (3 nts), yurt (1 nt, multishare up to 4 people per yurt), village homestay (1 nt)
Meals
Breakfasts: 8, Lunches: 3, Dinners: 5
Vegetarian options are available on all meals throughout the adventure.
Vegetarian options availableLocal Guide
GuidedThis adventure is led by a local guide throughout. The main language of this adventure is English. Please contact us for other languages available.
Wifi
Wifi is available during the adventure. In some areas and / or accommodation / transport Wifi may be free.
Dates & Prices
Sep 25
from £1,014Apr 26
from £1,224May 26
from £1,224Jun 26
from £1,400Jul 26
from £1,567Aug 26
from £1,567Sep 26
from £1,400May 27
from £1,224Jun 27
from £1,224Jul 27
from £1,224Aug 27
from £1,224Sep 27
from £1,224Apr 28
from £1,224May 28
from £1,224Jun 28
from £1,224Jul 28
from £1,224Aug 28
from £1,224Sep 28
from £1,224
- Save 2%Tue 2 Sep 2025 > Wed 10 Sep 2025Guaranteed Departure🔥1 space of 16 left£1,379£1,351
- Save 26%Tue 16 Sep 2025 > Wed 24 Sep 2025Guaranteed Departure🔥2 spaces of 16 left£1,379Best offer£1,014
- Save 2%Sat 27 Sep 2025 > Sun 5 Oct 2025Guaranteed Departure🔥1 space of 16 left£1,379£1,351
Customer reviews & ratings
It's once of the best trips. We made some great friends, visited places that to us was very exotic and backed with interesting history. Was a great mix of scenic and cultural tour. We would not have been able to do this on our own, so thank you G-Adventures! We have been recommending already. The trip was well organised, good value with knowledgeable, personable guide.
Nikita Oct, 2024 VerifiedI am totally satisfied. Excellent programme and guide.
Lauri Oct, 2024 Verified
Essential trip information
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