Kel Suu Lake Group Tour – Secret of Kyrgyzstan

Bishkek (30 km / 35 min)

Upon arrival at Manas International Airport, our tour guide will meet you at the arrival gates. A transfer to the city will take approximately 30-40 minutes. Check-in at the hotel is at 14:00 (early check-in is not included).

We will begin a sightseeing tour of Bishkek, which will cover:

• The Monument of Kyrgyz National Hero Manas
• Kurmanjan Datka Monument
• Oak Park
• Opera and Ballet Theatre

The sightseeing tour will conclude at Victory Square. After the tour, we will visit ZUM (the Central Department Store) to shop for souvenirs.

(No meals)

Chon-Kemin – Karakol (305 km / 6 hours)

Today, we head towards Karakol City, traveling along the northern shore of the stunning Issyk Kul Lake.

Issyk Kul is a tectonic lake and the second-largest alpine lake globally, following Titicaca in South America. The lake stretches for 182 km in length and is 58 km wide, with a maximum depth of 668 meters. During the summer, the water temperature can reach 20-25°C.

As we drive, you’ll enjoy the ever-changing landscapes and picturesque views.

Along the way, we’ll stop at two important cultural sites: the Nomad Museum and the Open-air Petroglyphs Museum.

The Nomad Museum offers an enriching experience where visitors can dive into Kyrgyzstan’s rich cultural history. From the Altai nomadic exhibits to fascinating ethnographic collections, this museum offers a vivid glimpse into the region’s past.

The Petroglyphs date back to the Sak-Usun period (9th-8th century BC to the 3rd-5th century AD). Located near the Kungey Alatoo Mountains, the site offers breathtaking views of the lake.

We continue our journey to Karakol Town, where a short afternoon sightseeing tour will take you to visit the Dungan Mosque and the Russian Orthodox Church.

Karakol was established in 1869 as a Russian military garrison and grew rapidly as explorers passed through it on their way to the Tian Shan mountains.

Overnight in Karakol.

(Breakfast – guest house)

Karakol – Djety Oguz Gorge – Svetlaya Polyana – Kajy-Say (130 km / 2-3 hours)

Today, we drive towards Kochkor Village, making stops along the way to explore the stunning Djety Oguz Gorge with its famous “Seven Bulls” and “Broken Heart” rock formations. The gorge, named for its unique red sandstone and rocky cliffs, is surrounded by lush forests of Tien Shan spruces, creating a picturesque setting.

After a walk through the gorge, we head to the village of Svetlaya Polyana, where we will meet a local Komuz maker.

The Komuz, a traditional Kyrgyz three-stringed instrument similar to a small guitar, is an integral part of Kyrgyz folk music. Typically crafted from apricot or juniper wood, this instrument has been a cultural staple for centuries.

The master will demonstrate how the Komuz is made and explain its significance in Kyrgyz culture. You’ll also have the chance to enjoy some herbal tea with honey from the master’s personal apiary.

We then continue to Kajy-Say Village, where we will stay in a yurt camp or guest house.

Dinner and overnight stay.

(Breakfast – hotel, lunch – local family, dinner – yurt camp/guest house)

Kajy-Say – Canyon Skazka – Son Kul Lake (285 km / 5-6 hours)

After breakfast, we visit Skazka Canyon, one of the most remarkable places in Kyrgyzstan. This canyon is renowned for its extraordinary sandstone formations that have been shaped over centuries of erosion. The canyon’s name, “Skazka,” meaning “fairytale” in Russian, is inspired by the fantastical shapes of the rocks, which many say resemble animals, famous landmarks, or mythical characters.

Next, we continue our journey to Son Kul Lake, driving through the Kalmak Ashuu Pass (3447 m), a stunning route that offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.

We stop for lunch in Kochkor Village before continuing the drive.

Son Kul is an alpine lake located in the Tien Shan Mountains at an elevation of 3016 meters. The area around the lake is used as a pasture for cattle from nearby villages such as Kochkor, Naryn, and Jumgal. During summer, Son Kul is considered the best Kyrgyz jailoo (pasture), and the road to the lake winds through scenic mountain passes, creating a feeling of isolation. Son Kul Lake, translating to “Last Lake” in Kyrgyz, is a hidden gem nestled among the high peaks.

Optional activities include:

• Horseback riding
• Horseback riding games
• A demonstration of yurt setting and traditional Kyrgyz nomadic life.

Accommodation in a local comfortable yurt camp, where you can experience the life of a nomad and learn about Kyrgyz traditions and culture.

(Breakfast – yurt camp/guest house, lunch – local family, dinner – yurt camp)

Son Kul Lake – Naryn Town (150 km / 2.5-3 hours)

Today, we head towards Naryn, the most mountainous region of Kyrgyzstan, traveling via the Moldo Ashuu Pass (3200 m). Naryn is famous for its delicious traditional Kyrgyz dishes, especially the finest meat, offering a unique taste of the country’s culinary heritage.

We will spend the night in a hotel.

(Breakfast – yurt camp)

Naryn – Kel Suu Lake (150 km / 5-6 hours)

After breakfast, we begin our journey towards one of Kyrgyzstan’s hidden gems – Kel Suu Lake.

Although the distance is not long, the road conditions may extend the travel time.

We will reach Kel Suu by late afternoon, where our camp will be set up upon arrival, with all necessary facilities prepared for you. You can pick up your tent and settle in comfortably.

The evening offers some free time to explore the surroundings before dinner.

Nestled in a remote location by Kyrgyzstan’s standards, Kel Suu Lake stretches over 10 km through a dramatic mountain gorge, reaching close to the Chinese border. The name Kel Suu means “incoming water,” which is fitting, as the lake sometimes disappears, flowing into underground caves and grottoes. Not everyone is fortunate enough to witness the full beauty of the lake.

We will spend the night in tents or a yurt camp.

(Breakfast – yurt camp, lunch – lunch box, dinner – yurt/tent camp)

Kel Suu Lake – Naryn Town (on foot 8 km / 2-3 hours one way) (drive 150 km / 3.5 hours)

Today, we delve into the hidden gem of Kyrgyzstan – Kel Suu. From the tent camp, you have the option to either walk or drive up to the lake, with the walk taking approximately 2-3 hours. The terrain is not too challenging, but the altitude of 3200-3300 m above sea level can make the hike more difficult. Make sure you have proper hiking boots for the journey.

Once at the lake, take time to relax, explore the area, and enjoy a lunch box by the shores as you immerse yourself in the stunning natural beauty of this treasure.

In the evening, we pack up and head towards Naryn. The drive takes us about 3.5 hours, and we arrive late in the evening, checking into a hotel for the night.

(Breakfast – tent camp, lunch – lunch box)

Naryn Town – Bishkek City (350 km / 5 hours)

After breakfast, take some time to explore the surroundings of Naryn town. Enjoy a walk to appreciate the nature and scenery before heading back to Bishkek.

On the way, stop at Kochkor village to visit a local women’s cooperative where traditional felt items are made. Here, you can learn about the process of felt production and see a variety of crafts.

Optionally, watch a demonstration of felt-making techniques.

Afterward, continue the drive to Bishkek, where you will check into your hotel.

Optionally, you can explore Osh Bazaar (closed on Mondays).

To round off the day, enjoy a farewell dinner at a local restaurant.

Optionally, you can enjoy a folklore show.

Overnight stay at a hotel.

(Breakfast – hotel, dinner – local restaurant)

Bishkek – Airport (30 km / 40 minutes)

After breakfast at the hotel, transfer to the airport to catch your flight.

(Breakfast – hotel)