Whispers of the Steppe: Kyrgyz Nomadic Experience

We depart from Bishkek and head towards the Suusamyr Valley. Along the way, we will make a stop at a local bazaar to gather supplies for our five-day hike.

Following that, we’ll take a scenic route through the Too Ashuu Pass. After passing through the tunnel, you'll be treated to stunning views of the Suusamyr Valley.

We'll travel half of the valley to reach Otmok, where our pack horses and equestrian guide will be ready to assist us.

• Travel time: 45 minutes
• Lodging: tent

On the first day of our 5-day trek in the central Tian-Shan massif, we will hike to the base of the Jaisan Pass. Our campsite will be near a few small glacial lakes, where ancient petroglyphs can be observed on the rocks.

The horses will transport our luggage and cooking supplies.

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

Hike to the Jaisan pass at an altitude of 3500 meters, after which we will descend 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 / -900m
• Lodging: Yurt

Following breakfast in the yurt, we will head to Lake Borukorboz for a picnic by the water.

Afterward, we’ll return to the camp to watch the traditional nomadic sport of 'Kokboru,' where horsemen compete to score goals with a goat carcass. After the game, we will cook dinner featuring goat meat.

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

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

After we cross the pass, we'll make our way down to another gorge known as Japyrtmak.

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

This will be the longest day, featuring a gradual yet consistent climb along the Uzun Kiya ridge. After navigating two passes, we will descend into the Jylan Bazar gorge.

You'll experience the warmth of the Ketmen Tyube valley, where the scenery transforms dramatically. Prepare to be amazed by the stunning views of Lake Toktogul.

• Hiking duration: 6-7 hours
• Lodging: Tent

On the final day of the hiking tour, we will make our way down to Toktogoul. You will be staying with a host who is a French teacher and also manages an NGO focused on promoting traditional felt crafts.

In the afternoon, you'll have the opportunity to swim in Toktogoul Lake.

• Horseback riding duration: 4 hours
• Lodging: Homestay

In the morning, you'll observe the process of creating felt and 'Shirdak' carpets.

In the afternoon, explore the local bazaar.

• Lodging: Homestay

We will travel along the route to the village of Kyzart, located in the Joumgal region. During our trip, we'll enjoy the scenic twists and turns of the Kokomerene River as it flows through a stunning canyon adorned with ochre and red colors.

We’ll pause for a picnic by the river before continuing our journey to Kyzart.

• Travel time: 5 hours
• Lodging: with local families

After breakfast, the vehicle takes us to the starting point of our hike to Song Kol Lake. We will drive a section of the Kilemche jailoo before ascending to the Tuz Ashuu pass, which is situated at an elevation of 3,400 meters.

Following that, we will descend to our yurt camp at Bakdoolot's, who was our previous guide and a French teacher, married to a horse breeder. Welcome to Song Kol.

• Hiking duration: 5 hours
• Lodging: yurt.

The day at Song Kol is open for you to relax in this serene location and explore the nomadic lifestyle of the Kyrgyz people.

If you're interested in learning to ride horses, this is the perfect spot to start, featuring wide-open spaces and gentle horses that are responsive to riders.

• Lodging: yurt

We make our way down to the village of Kyzart by way of the Kara Kya Pass.

After enjoying lunch at a local's home, we proceed to Lake Issyk Kul, which is the second largest high-altitude lake in the world, following Lake Titicaca.

• Lodging: Homestay

Return to Bishkek, with a stop along the way to explore the Ak-Sai canyons and the Burana Tower. In the evening, enjoy a farewell dinner at a traditional restaurant.

In the mid-10th century, Kyrgyzstan was part of the Karakhanid state, a powerful entity that promoted the growth of crafts, trade, and construction, leading to the establishment of new cities. One such city was Balasagun, which included the Burani settlement named after the Burana Tower. The ruins of this notable settlement are situated 12 km from Tokmak, featuring remnants of various buildings scattered throughout. The central area of the settlement takes on an irregular rectangular shape, with the Burana Tower positioned to the east of the main ruins. This baked-brick minaret is among the most significant architectural landmarks in Central Asia from the 10th and 11th centuries.

Museum: In the fall of 2016, a new museum was inaugurated to celebrate the 1000th anniversary of Zhusup Balasugun. The museum features a hall displaying pottery in various shapes and sizes, ranging from tiny cups to large vessels exceeding 100 liters. Noteworthy exhibits include ceramic and bronze lamps.

• Transfer: 5 hours
• Accommodation: Guesthouse

Transfer to the airport. End of services.