Kyrgyzstan Small Group Tour 6-day

Bishkek – Burana Tower (UNESCO Site) – Chon Kemin Valley (190 km, 4 hours)

The journey starts with an excursion to Burana Tower, a historical landmark representing the legacy of Manas and his enduring heritage. Your guide will recount tales of Manas’s 40 loyal companions, the Choro, and explain the tower’s significance in the epic narrative.

Following the Burana visit, we travel to Ala Kush yurt camp in the picturesque Chon Kemin Valley. Here, you’ll have the opportunity to experience horseback riding and try lifting an Ulak, much like the young Manas once did. The stories of Manas and his deep connection to this region will enrich the experience.

Additional Information:

• Groups of 1 to 4 people: Horse games will not be held, but guests can enjoy horseback riding and watch a video presentation of the games.
• Groups of 5 or more: Horse games will be organized.
• Private games: Available upon request for an extra fee.

After a fulfilling day, we’ll settle into the yurt camp, enjoy a traditional dinner, and spend the night in cozy yurts. A cultural photoshoot with unique objects is complimentary, while horseback riding is offered at an additional charge.

Meals: Dinner

Chon Kemin Valley – Karkyra Valley (300 km, 7 hours)

Following breakfast, we’ll embark on a scenic drive along the northern shore of Issyk-Kul Lake, admiring its crystal-clear waters and the surrounding mountain landscapes. Our route takes us to Kyrchyn Valley in the heart of the Semyonov Gorge, a historic site where the World Nomad Games have been hosted three times. Here, you’ll discover the cultural importance of these games and their role in Kyrgyz traditions.

From there, we continue to the beautiful Karkyra Valley. Upon arrival, you’ll participate in the traditional preparation of the ritual dish “Ash,” reminiscent of the feast described in the epic of Khan Koketei. Guests can also get hands-on experience making boorsoks (fried bread) and helping prepare an authentic Kyrgyz dinner.

Meals: Breakfast / Dinner

Karkyra Valley

The morning begins with a deep dive into Kyrgyz nomadic culture, spending the first part of the day engaging in traditional games. You’ll have the chance to try activities like Toguz Korgool or Ordo while learning about the pastimes typical of life on the jailoo (summer pasture). We’ll also share stories about the legendary contests held in honor of Koketei and invite you to participate in various outdoor experiences.

After lunch, guests can enjoy their free time by choosing from a range of camp activities.

Complimentary: Hiking, sauna and bath, swings, movie screenings in the bar, archery.
Additional cost: Horseback riding, kumyz tasting.

In the evening, we’ll gather to meet a Manaschi — a skilled storyteller and keeper of the Manas epic — who will captivate us with a mesmerizing recital. The day ends with a traditional dinner at the camp.

Meals: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner

Karkyra Valley – Karakol (120 km / 2.5 hours)

Today, we journey to the town of Karakol, where we’ll explore its rich cultural diversity and discover how it reflects the unifying spirit of Manas, a symbol of Kyrgyz unity.

While in Karakol, we’ll visit the Historical Museum, the Dungan Mosque, and the Holy Trinity Church. These landmarks provide a deeper understanding of the town’s history and the harmonious coexistence of its different cultural communities.

After exploring Karakol, we continue our adventure to Issyk-Kul Lake:

• Summer: Enjoy swimming and a relaxing boat ride.
• Winter: Experience a boat ride while listening to fascinating stories about the lake’s cultural and historical significance.

In the evening, we’ll return to Karakol and enjoy an authentic local folklore performance.

Meals: Breakfast

Karakol – Jeti Oguz Gorge – Fairy Tale (Skazka) Canyon – Southern Shore of Issyk-Kul (250 km, 6 hours)

After breakfast, we set off toward Jeti Oguz Gorge, renowned for its striking “Seven Bulls” rock formations. Here, we delve into the military campaigns of Manas and dress in traditional nomadic attire for a memorable photoshoot.

Next, we continue to Fairy Tale Canyon, where we take a scenic walk, hearing captivating tales about the connection between this place and the epic story of “Manas.”

Later, we meet an eagle hunter and take part in a fascinating masterclass on training and hunting with these majestic birds of prey. Learn about the vital role Golden Eagles play in the life of the Kyrgyz nomads.

Our journey then leads us to the village of Bokonbaev, where we end the day with a masterclass on the traditional Kyrgyz dance “Kara-Jorgo,” followed by a delicious dinner.

Meals: Breakfast / Dinner

Southern Shore of Issyk-Kul – Bishkek (300 km / 5 hours)

Today, we focus on the rich nomadic culture of the Kyrgyz people. After breakfast, we visit a workshop where traditional shyrdaks (felt carpets) are made. Here, you’ll discover the symbolic meanings behind the intricate patterns and the detailed process of crafting these carpets.

Next, we head to the village of Kyzyl-Tuu, where we’ll learn about the art of Kyrgyz yurt making. We’ll explore the significance of yurts in the nomadic lifestyle and the deep symbolism behind their structure.

Following this, we continue our journey to Bishkek. Along the way, we’ll share stories about Manas’s migration to the Talas Valley and the historical importance of these events in Kyrgyz history.

We arrive in Bishkek in the evening and conclude the tour at the agreed-upon location.