Kyrgyz Multi-Activity Quest: Nature and Adventure

We depart from Bishkek and head towards the Suusamyr Valley. Along the way, we will make a stop at a local bazaar to purchase supplies for our five days of horseback riding.

Following that, we will take a scenic route through the Toho Ashuu Pass. After passing through the tunnel, you'll be greeted by stunning views of the Suusamyr Valley. We will drive half of the valley to reach Otmok, where our pack horses and equestrian guide will be ready for us.

• Transfer: 45 minutes
• Accommodation: tent

On the first day of our 5-day trek through the central Tian-Shan massif, we will hike to the base of the Jaisan Pass.

Our campsite will be situated near a few small glacial lakes, where ancient petroglyphs can be found on the rocks. The horses will transport our gear and cooking supplies.

• Hiking duration: 4 to 5 hours
• Elevation increase: +600m
• Lodging: Tent

Hike to the Jaisan pass, which is at an altitude of 3500 meters, and then we will make our way down into the Ters valley. There’s a chance to spot wildlife such as ibex and other animals.

• Duration of hike: 5 to 6 hours
• Elevation change: +300m ascent / -900m descent
• Lodging: Yurt

Following breakfast in the yurt, we will head to Lake Borukorboz. We'll enjoy a picnic by the lake before returning to the camp to watch the nomadic sport "Kokboru," where horsemen compete for a goat carcass to score points.

After the game, we'll prepare a dinner featuring goat meat.

• Walking duration: 4-5 hours
• Lodging: Yurt

Today, we will bid farewell to our shepherd companions and proceed with our horseback riding adventure towards Toktogul. Before we tackle the second pass, which is over 3400m high, we will visit the Sharkiratma waterfall.

After crossing the pass, we'll descend into another gorge known as Japyrtmak.

• Riding duration: 4-5 hours
• Lodging: Tent

This will be the longest day, featuring a gradual yet consistent climb along the Uzun Kiya ridge.

After riding two passes, we will make our way down to the Kodul Gorge. You'll experience the warmth of the Ketmen Tyube Valley, where the scenery transforms dramatically. A stunning view of Lake Toktogul awaits you.

We'll set up camp in tents close to the beekeepers.

• Horseback riding duration: 6-7 hours
• Lodging: Tent

On the final day of our horseback riding tour, we visit Lake Toktogoul. Those who are feeling adventurous can swim alongside the horses, which are good swimmers.

Some of the younger horses might hesitate to enter the water, but with a bit of encouragement, we can motivate them to swim.

• Riding duration: 4 hours
• Lodging: Homestay

A two-hour drive will take you to the village of Suussamyr, which serves as the starting point for a mountain biking adventure toward Son-Kul.

After riding several villages, you'll ride alongside the Kokomerene River, winding through a stunning canyon adorned with red ochre hues. In the evening, we'll set up camp by the riverbank.

• Transfer: 2 hours
• Mountain biking: 4 hours
• Lodging: Tent

Rise and enjoy breakfast early in the morning. It's important to begin your day early to experience the refreshing morning air while cycling.

You'll ride the entire Joumgal Valley before reaching the Kara Kéché Gorge.

• Mountain biking duration: 5 hours
• Lodging: Tent.

Today's stage will be the most challenging, featuring a climb to a pass at 3,300 meters before descending to Lake Son Kul, which sits at an elevation of 3,016 meters. Kara Kéché is the largest coal mine in Kyrgyzstan, and along the way, you'll encounter open mines where old, abandoned Soviet machinery can be seen.

Your hard work during the climb will be rewarded with stunning views of Lake Son Kul.

In the evening, you will stay with a nomadic family who spend their summer tending to their herds of horses and sheep in this beautiful region of the country.

• Mountain biking: 5 hours
• Accommodation: Yurt

Today, we will cycle on mountain bikes along the southern edge of Song Kol Lake, then make a gradual ascent to the 32 Parrots Pass before descending into the Torpu Sai Valley.

Afterward, you will be transferred by car to Kochkor.

• Mountain biking: 5 hours
• Accommodation: Homestay

We'll head to Bokonbaev to witness an eagle hunting demonstration, followed by some evening shopping at the local bazaar. In the afternoon, we’ll visit the Ak-Sai canyons by Lake Issik-Kul, where we’ll enjoy a walk through the canyons and have a chance to swim.

We'll spend the night camping by the lake.

• Accommodation: tent

Return to Bishkek, with a stop to visit the Burana Tower along the way. In the evening, a farewell dinner will take place at a traditional restaurant.

In the mid-10th century, Kyrgyzstan was part of the powerful Karakhanid state, which promoted the growth of crafts, trade, construction, and the establishment of new cities. Balasagun was one of these emerging cities, known for the Burani settlement named after the Burana Tower. The ruins of this historic settlement are situated 12 km from Tokmak, featuring remnants of various structures scattered throughout the area. The central part of the settlement takes on an irregular rectangular shape, with the Burana Tower located to the east of the main ruins. This baked-brick minaret is considered one of the most significant architectural achievements in Central Asia during the 10th and 11th centuries.

Museum: In the fall of 2016, a new museum was inaugurated to commemorate the 1000th anniversary of Zhusup Balasugun. The museum showcases a variety of earthenware, ranging from tiny cups to large vessels with capacities exceeding 100 liters. Additionally, ceramic and bronze lamps are also featured prominently.

• Transfer time: 5 hours
• Accommodation: Guesthouse

Transfer to the airport. End of services