Nomads Life Group Tour

From Bishkek to Naryn: Journey into the Heart of Nomadic Heritage

Our expedition begins in Bishkek, where researchers gather before setting off toward the Naryn region—one of the highest and most culturally rich areas of this nomadic land.

Just an hour and a half into our journey, we’ll arrive at our first historical stop: the iconic Burana Tower, a remarkable remnant of the Great Silk Road.

We’ll enjoy lunch in the village of Kochkor, known for its warm hospitality, before continuing through the striking Boom Gorge.

By evening, we’ll settle into a traditional yurt camp near Naryn, where preparations begin for our high-altitude nomadic adventure.

Here, we’ll explore why water was held sacred by the Kyrgyz people and how the traditions of nomadic life emerged in the mountains.

After a hearty dinner, we’ll delve into the philosophy of nomadic existence—examining rites of passage from birth to adulthood, family values, and the farewell rituals that accompany a nomad’s final journey.

Km / h / altitude – 350 km / 8 hours / 2040 m asl

Meal: Lunch, Dinner. 

Accommodation: Yurt camp

From Naryn to Son Kul: Stepping into the Nomadic World

Our day begins with a nourishing breakfast as we prepare for the journey ahead—to an authentic high-altitude summer camp of Kyrgyz nomads.

Upon reaching the yurt camp by the serene waters of Son Kul Lake, we’ll be welcomed with a delicious traditional lunch.

In the afternoon, we’ll dive into hands-on experience by helping construct a genuine yurt—the iconic home of nomadic peoples. This will mark our first steps in learning the ways of the nomad.

As evening falls, we’ll gather for a traditional dinner under the open sky, where we’ll begin to unravel the first layers of the nomadic civilization’s timeless wisdom.

Km / h / altitude – 150 km / 4 hours/ 3000 m asl

Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner. 

Accommodation: Yurt camp

From Son Kul to Tash Rabat: In Search of the Nomad’s Code

We begin the day with breakfast in the yurt camp, gathering energy for what lies ahead.

This morning, we’ll learn the basics of horseback riding—an essential skill of the nomadic lifestyle. As we ride along the shores of the majestic Son Kul Lake, another secret of the nomads will quietly unfold before us.

Our journey then takes on a special purpose: we’ll carry a symbolic cargo, representing trust and forming part of a ritual intended to bring prosperity.

Continuing onward, we set course for our next destination—a camp near the ancient Tash Rabat caravanserai. En route, we’ll pause to enjoy a traditional nomadic snack known as gulazyk.

As evening falls and we arrive at the yurt camp, a warm dinner accompanied by storytelling awaits us. It is here that we will complete our mission, handing over the precious cargo to the host of the nomadic dwelling.

The night concludes with an introduction to traditional nomadic games—offering not just entertainment, but clues to unlocking the next piece of the mysterious Nomad’s Code.

Km / h / altitude – 250 km / 6 hours / 3100 m asl

Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner. 

Accommodation: Yurt camp

From Tash Rabat to the Southern Shore of Issyk Kul: Tracing the Path of the Ancients

Over breakfast, our host from the nomadic camp will reveal a special part of the precious cargo we delivered the night before—another clue in our unfolding journey.

We then set out to explore the historic Tash Rabat caravanserai, once a vital haven for merchants and travelers on the Silk Road.
With each step, we draw closer to unlocking the deeper mysteries of nomadic civilization.

En route, we’ll pause for a traditional nomadic meal before beginning our descent from the highland pastures into the lush valley below. Our path leads us to the sunlit southern shores of Issyk Kul Lake.

Here, we’ll take part in the age-old tradition of Salbuurun, witnessing the skill of eagle hunters, testing our aim with bow and arrow, and meeting the legendary Kyrgyz Taigan hunting dog.

As the day winds down, we’ll arrive at our lakeside yurt camp. A peaceful walk along the lake’s edge will be followed by a hearty dinner and a night under the stars in our yurts.

Km / h / altitude – 350 km/ 5 hours / 1800 m asl

From the Shores of Issyk Kul to the Karkyra Valley: Following the Path of the Cranes

We begin the day with breakfast overlooking the shimmering waters of Issyk Kul, as local legends guide us toward our next destination—the Karkyra Valley, known as the route of the Cranes’ Migration.

Our first stop is the village of Zhenish, where we’ll uncover the art and symbolism behind traditional Kyrgyz carpets—shyrdak and ala-kiyiz—crafted using time-honored techniques.

The journey then leads us to Karakol, a crossroads of nomadic and settled cultures. After a flavorful lunch in the city, we’ll explore its rich heritage: visiting the serene Dungan Mosque and discovering the incredible story of a Greek icon now housed in the Holy Trinity Cathedral.

Before reaching our final highland camp, we’ll make a stop at the Old Mill Museum, home to rare artifacts—from ancient military armor to everyday items of nomadic life dating back to the 5th century BCE.

As our Cranes’ Migration climbs to stunning altitudes, we’ll encounter the myths and majesty surrounding Khan Tengri, the fabled ruler of the skies.

Upon arriving at the yurt camp in the Karkyra Valley, we’ll close the day with dinner and a tasting of traditional nomadic drinks—raising a toast to the journey and the wisdom carried on the wings of the cranes.

Km / h / altitude – 215 km / 4 hours / 2200 m asl

Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner. 

Accommodation: Yurt camp

Karkyra Valley: The Final Chapter of the Nomads’ Code

After breakfast, we’ll embark on a scenic hike through the breathtaking Char-Kuduk Gorge, taking in the raw beauty of the highlands one last time.

Upon returning to camp, a warm lunch will be waiting for us—fuel for the festive preparations ahead. The atmosphere will begin to shift as we knead dough for boorsoks and lay out traditional attire in anticipation of a special celebration rooted in age-old wedding customs.

As evening falls, we’ll come together for a vibrant farewell dinner. Here, the explorers will unite the final pieces of the Nomads’ Code, unveiling the deeper meaning and timeless wisdom at the heart of nomadic life and civilization.

From Karkyra to Bishkek: Carrying the Spirit of the Nomad Home

After breakfast, we begin the final leg of our journey. Though the expedition is nearing its end, one last discovery awaits us.

On the northern shore of Issyk Kul, in the village of Ornok, we will receive the final symbol of the nomadic legacy—passed on by the guardians of the Museum of Nomadic Civilizations.

During our farewell lunch with the museum’s keepers, we’ll take a final group photo, capturing the spirit of the adventure we’ve shared.

As we return to Bishkek—the place where this path first began—we carry more than memories. Each of us brings back a piece of the nomadic soul, forever woven into our own story.

Km / h / altitude – 470 km / 8 hours / 800 m asl

Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.