Kyrgyzstan Wilderness
June 20-30, 2025
Join me on a adventure-packed, small-group trip through the breathtaking wilderness of Kyrgyzstan. Through trekking, horseback riding, and cross-country road trips, we’ll explore the stunning natural landscapes & experience the rich culture that this off-the-beaten-track destination has to offer.
Kyrgyzstan Wild Group Trip
June 20-30, 2025*
10 nights / 11 days
All-inclusive** wilderness adventure
Group size: 7 adventurous humans (+ me!)
Price: 3950 USD per person (shared room) — get 200 USD off when you book & pay in full before Feb 1!
*I selected these dates as they should allow most of you to only take off 7-8 work days. :) If you require an early departure on June 29, let me know as I may be able to accommodate!
**International flights not included. See ‘Inclusions & Exclusions’ below for more details.
EARYLY BIRD DISCOUNT: Get $200 off when you book & pay in full by Feb 1
Come with me on a bucket-list wilderness adventure in Kyrgyzstan!
On this 10-night/11-day trip, we will be exploring the most beautiful destinations in Kyrgyzstan through an action-packed itinerary.
Picture yourself trekking through misty pine forests, horseback riding across valleys of wildflowers; swimming in turquoise alpine lakes tucked between towering mountain peaks, watching sunset across glowing red and orange canyons, sleeping in traditional nomadic yurts, and enjoying delicious Kyrgyz meals together prepared by your local hosts (the food & hospitality here is amazing!).
See below for complete itinerary, inclusions, and some FAQ!
This once-in-a-lifetime bucket list safari adventure is priced at 3950 USD per person (for one spot in a shared yurt/room).
Fill out the application below to start the process & get your spot in line to book. I’ll get back to you in the next 1-2 days with next steps!
ITINERARY*
*This is a sample itinerary! Dates, activities, and hotels are subject to change (for a comparable alternative) if weather or any other extenuating circumstances so require to ensure the best possible experience for travelers.
Day 1: Arrival in Bishkek
Overnight in Bishkek
Welcome to Kyrgyzstan! Arrive in Bishkek, the country's capital, and transfer to your hotel. Depending on your arrival time, you’ll have the chance to explore some of Bishkek’s landmarks, such as Ala-Too Square, the central hub of the city, or the lively Osh Bazaar, where you can sample local produce, spices, and Kyrgyz delicacies. In the evening, enjoy a welcome dinner at a local restaurant, where you’ll get a taste of traditional Kyrgyz cuisine such as Plov (rice pilaf), Lagman (noodle soup), or Manty (dumplings).
Day 2: Bishkek to Song-Kol Lake
Overnight in a Yurt Camp at Song-Kol Lake
After breakfast, we depart for Song-Kol Lake, a stunning high-altitude destination surrounded by endless grassy plains and snow-capped peaks. We’ll stop for a special lunch with a local family that will teach us about the Dungan (Muslim-Chinese) ethnic minority in Kyrgyzstan, and serve us an authentic homemade meal. After lunch we will journey onward to Song-Kol Lake, situated at 3000 meters above sea level and surrounded by expansive alpine meadows and yurt camps. Enjoy a horseback ride along the shore as the sun sets over the mountains, and settling into our cozy yurts for the night to experience the peace of nomadic life.
Day 3: Song-Kol Lake
Begin the day with breakfast at the yurt camp, followed by a relaxed horseback ride in the mountains and pastures surrounding Song-Kol Lake. We’ll pass by Jalgyz-Karagai Pass (3,400 m.) Take in the breathtaking scenery of meadows, wildflowers, and grazing herds of horses, cows, and yaks, before we reach a stunning panoramic view of the valley below and the distant Kilemche Valley. Enjoy sunset and dinner back at the yurt camp, and if the weather permits, some of the best stargazing in the world.
Day 4: Song-Kol Lake to Kel Suu
Overnight in a Yurt Camp at Kel Suu
Today, we set off on a scenic drive towards Kel Suu Lake, a remote and hidden gem near the border with China. The journey will take us through rugged mountain passes and peaceful valleys. Upon arrival, you’ll be greeted by towering peaks and the crystal-clear waters of the river, surrounded by pristine nature. Overnight in a cozy yurt camp, where you’ll experience the tranquility of this off-the-beaten-path destination.
Day 5: Exploring Kel Suu Lake
Overnight in Kel Suu
Rise early for a horseback riding trek to Kel Suu Lake, nestled high up in the mountains surrounded by mountain peaks. The turquoise alpine waters are perfect for swimming, and we will also take a boat ride to explore the lake's hidden corners, dramatic cliffs, and rock formations. Enjoy a delicious picnic lunch on the shores before returning to the yurt camp via horseback. As evening falls, gather around a campfire for an unforgettable stargazing experience—Kel Suu’s remote location makes it one of the best spots in Kyrgyzstan for astrophotography (weather permitting). Overnight in the yurt camp.
Day 6: Kel Suu to Tash Bashat
Overnight in Tash Bashat
Today, we journey towards Tash Bashat, an area renowned for its unique geological features and cultural heritage. Along the way, enjoy the views of expansive valleys and rugged landscapes. Once in Tash Bashat, learn about the nomadic lifestyle and local traditions through cultural activities, providing a fascinating insight into Kyrgyzstan's past. Overnight in a local yurt or guesthouse.
Day 7: Tash Bashat to Ak Say Canyon
Overnight in Naryn or Bokonbaev
After breakfast, we head to Ak Say Canyon, an otherworldly landscape full of unique rock formations that glow orange and red at sunset. On the way, we’ll stop in Naryn or Bokonbaev for a traditional lunch and a chance to meet a local eagle hunter. Witness a demonstration of this ancient skill, a deep-rooted tradition in Kyrgyzstan. In the afternoon, we’ll hike up to a viewpoint in Ak Say Canyon to watch the sunset over the dramatic landscape. We spend the night in Bokonbaev.
Day 8: Skazka Canyon & Altyn Arashan
Overnight in Altyn Arashan
This morning, we rise early for a visit to Skazka (Fairytale) Canyon, a surreal landscape with colorful, wind-eroded rock formations that feel like scenes from another planet (and resemble the spines of dragons, eliciting fascinating legends that have given the site the nickname “Fairytale Canyon”). After breakfast, we drive to Baskoon Waterfall, where you can take a short hike to enjoy the spectacular view of the cascading falls. Continuing our journey, we drive to Altyn Arashan, a pristine valley nestled in the Tian Shan mountains. Explore the area and soak in the natural hot springs—perfect for relaxing after a day of exploration. Tonight, enjoy the peace and quiet of Altyn Arashan’s remote beauty while staying in a comfortable guesthouse or yurt.
Day 9: Ala-Kul Lake Trek & Karakol
Overnight in Karakol
After breakfast, embark on a half-day trek to Ala-Kul Lake, one of the most scenic destinations in Kyrgyzstan. The hike to the lake offers stunning views of the surrounding peaks and valleys, with the turquoise waters of Ala-Kul serving as the perfect reward at the end of our trek. After returning to the camp for lunch, we drive to Karakol, a charming town known for its unique blend of Russian and Kyrgyz architecture. Spend the night in Karakol, where you can explore the town or relax after your adventure.
Day 10: Karakol to Bishkek
Overnight in Bishkek
Today, we drive back to Bishkek, taking in the final views of the picturesque landscapes along the way. Once we arrive in Bishkek, you’ll have some free time to shop for souvenirs or visit any sites you may have missed on Day 1. In the evening, enjoy a final farewell dinner at a local restaurant, where you’ll reflect on the highlights of your Kyrgyzstan adventure with your fellow travelers. Overnight in Bishkek.
Day 11: Departures
After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your onward flights, filled with unforgettable memories from your Kyrgyzstan adventure.
Trip Highlights:
Song-Kol Lake: Experience Kyrgyz nomadic culture and horseback riding by one of the country’s most beautiful high-altitude lakes.
Kel Suu Lake: Discover the hidden beauty of this remote alpine lake, surrounded by dramatic cliffs and pristine nature.
Tash Bashat: Explore ancient caves and learn about Kyrgyz culture through local traditions.
Ak Say Canyon & Skazka Canyon: Hike through some of the most stunning and surreal landscapes in Kyrgyzstan.
Altyn Arashan: Relax in natural hot springs surrounded by breathtaking mountain scenery.
Ala-Kul Lake: Trek to one of Kyrgyzstan’s most stunning alpine lakes, surrounded by towering peaks.
INCLUSIONS:
All transportation throughout the trip (private vehicle, local transfers)
Accommodation in guesthouses, yurts, and tents
Meals: All meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) during the trip
Guided excursions and activities (horseback riding, hiking, eagle hunting demonstration, stargazing, etc.)
Local guides and support staff
Entrance fees and permits for parks and protected areas
EXCLUSIONS
International flights
Travel insurance (trip & travel health insurance is mandatory for this adventure!)
Visas (Kyrgyzstan is visa-free for most nationalities… yay!)
Tipping for drivers/guides
Airport transfers that are not on the designated arrival/departure dates
This trip is great for:
Photographers and aspiring photographers who want to develop their skills in some of the most beautiful and diverse landscapes on earth (this is also a great destination for drone photography/videography)
Outdoor enthusiasts with a love for nature, camping, hiking, and being “off the grid”
Adventure-seekers who desire off-the-beaten track travel experiences that are away from the tourist crowds, away from technology & cell service, in a part of the world that most people have never visited (or even heard of!)
Cultural enthusiasts who love connecting with locals, learning & being open-minded about local customs/rituals, and trying local foods
Sustainable travelers who are excited to venture into untouched nature, and enjoy unpretentious travel with simple accommodations, home-cooked meals, limited access to technology/electricity (no fluff, just raw beautiful adventure)
EARYLY BIRD DISCOUNT: Get $200 off when you book & pay in full by Jan 15
About Kyrgyzstan
Kyrgyzstan is peacefully tucked between China to the east, Kazakhstan to the north, and Tajikistan and Uzbekistan to the south and west. Along with heartwarming hospitality & very few tourists, Kyrgyzstan is known for its pristine natural landscapes —ranging from towering mountains ranges (including some of the highest peaks in the world), turquoise alpine lakes, mystical waterfalls, and lush forests filled with Kyrgyz mountain horses and crystal clear rivers.
Kyrgyzstan is one of the most awe-inspiring destinations for outdoor adventure lovers, photographers, and cultural explorers alike. With its dramatic landscapes, rich history, and unique blend of nomadic traditions, this hidden gem promises an unforgettable experience for anyone seeking a true connection with nature and the local people.
A Land of Majestic Mountains and Scenic Beauty
With over 94% of its territory is covered by mountains, including the towering peaks of the Tien Shan and Pamir mountain ranges, Kyrgyzstan is a paradise for adventure-seekers. The rugged, snow-capped summits—such as Pobeda Peak (7,439 meters), Lenin Peak (7,134 meters), and Khan Tengri (6,995 meters)—form some of the most spectacular mountain vistas in the world. The diverse terrain includes alpine meadows, glaciers, and valleys that are home to numerous pristine freshwater lakes and rivers.
Kyrgyzstan is also home to over 1,900 lakes and more than 40,000 rivers, many fed by meltwater from the surrounding glaciers, which create unique ecosystems and biodiversity. Due to the rich sediments of the glacial runoff, these lakes and rivers often appear electric blue in color — a fascinating natural phenomenon to witness in the remote wilderness.
Cultural Richness and Traditions
The Kyrgyz people have a rich cultural history to experience. Nomadic herding and villages are still evident in daily life, and can be seen across the country in even the most remote areas. Visitors can experience the warmth of local hospitality and explore vibrant villages where centuries-old customs are still practiced, from horse games, to traditional yurts, to the art of eagle hunting. The country's culture and cuisine is heavily influenced by its Islamic heritage, yet there is also a blend of Russian, Mongolian, Turkish, and other Central Asian traditions.
In addition to its natural beauty, Kyrgyzstan’s diverse ecosystems and landscapes — ranging from dry deserts to lush green valleys covered in wildflowers — provide a unique opportunity for photographers and videographers to capture stunning vistas, wildlife, and people.
Practical Information
Area: 198,500 square kilometers (94% mountains, average elevation 2,750 meters above sea level)
Population: Over 6 million people
Capital: Bishkek
Language: Kyrgyz (state), Russian (official)
Currency: Kyrgyz Som (1 USD ≈ 69 KGS)
Climate: Sharply continental, with cold winters and warm summers. In late June, temperatures range from 77°F to 95°F (25°C to 35°C) in the lowland regions like Bishkek, and 50°F to 68°F (10°C to 20°C) in the mountainous high-elevation areas.
Time Zone: GMT +6
Kyrgyzstan is a true bucket-list destination for adventure-seekers and outdoor enthusiasts. Together we will conquer mountain peaks, soak in the beauty of untouched nature, swim in alpine lakes, ride horses though towering canyons, experience some of the warmest hospitality in the world… all in a destination where few tourists ever dare to venture. Sounds amazing right?? I thought so. See you there!
ACCOMMODATIONS:
Accommodations for this adventure are basic but comfortable & unique, ranging from traditional nomadic yurts (my personal favorite), to local homestays & guesthouses, to small mountain lodges. Bathrooms are shared in guesthouses and yurt camps, and are private in hotel rooms. Showers are available in all accommodations except most yurt camps. Laundry service, WiFi, spas (except for natural springs & saunas) are not available… which makes this the truly epic, unforgettable, off-the-beaten track adventure it is!
For our stays in yurt camps, each yurt is very spacious with cot beds (you won’t be sleeping on the floor) & a fireplace inside for extra warmth, and can accommodate 4-6 people and are divided between genders. Toilets are in an outhouse, and only bucket showers (or washing in the beautiful rivers and lakes nearby) are available. There is always a cozy yurt designated for enjoying meals together & relaxing together. Personally, yurts are my favorite in Kyrgyzstan — it’s the most authentic, unique, fun experience to have in wilderness. No modern luxuries, but an unforgettable bucket list adventure. I can’t wait to experience this with you!
MEALS:
Meals are prepared by our local hosts, and typically include hot stews, pastas, soups, dumplings, fruit, and local desserts (and of course, lots and lots of tea). Ingredients are mostly fresh and organic, including potatoes, carrots, legumes, local herbs, and meats. Meals can be made vegetarian by request, but please contact me for any specific dietary requirements!
Non-alcoholic beverages such as water, tea, coffee, and soft drinks when available, are included. But please remember that we are visiting very rural, very remote areas of the country — don’t expect to find your preferred snacks, sodas, or barista coffee here! We will stop at several restaurants during the trip, but mostly we will be eating the meals cooked (often in yurts!) by our sweet local host-families.
PAYMENT POLICY:
1000 USD deposit is required to secure your spot and is non-refundable
Pay in full: Option to make full 3950 USD payment (per person) today (Early Bird Discount: Get 200 USD off when you book & pay in full before February 1!)
Pay in 2 installments: Option to pay 1000 USD deposit today to reserve your spot, payment 2 of $2950 by April 15, 2025.
*If final payment is not made by April 15, your spot will no longer be reserved and will be offered to those on the wait list
CANCELLATION POLICY:
The 1000 USD deposit is non-refundable
Cancellations made before March 15: refund for 50% of booking (minus non-refundable deposit)
Cancellations made after March 15: non-refundable as accommodations/tours have already been booked**
**Emergencies, although rare, can happen! Please book trip insurance (required for this trip) to keep you protected in case of unexpected emergencies.
ROOM OCCUPANCY POLICY:
All hotel rooms will be booked on a double occupancy basis (i.e. 2 people sharing a room, with the exception of our yurt stays where the capacity is 4 pax per yurt). Friends/couples may share a room at request; solo travelers will be paired with another solo traveler (of the same gender) based on questionnaire responses/Get To Know You calls — the best way to make new friends!
There is a limited number of single room upgrades available for an additional $750.
For our stays in yurt camps, each yurt is very spacious with cot beds (you won’t be sleeping on the floor) & a fireplace inside for warmth, and can accommodate 4 people and are divided between genders. Personally, yurts are my favorite in Kyrgyzstan — it’s an very authentic, unique wilderness experience!
Unless by specific request for couples/friends, I will not assign mixed-gender rooms.
FLIGHT INFORMATION
The international airport in Kyrgyzstan for our trip is Manas International Airport (FRU) in the capital city of Bishkek. You’ll want to arrive at FRU by evening of June 20, 2025. If you arrive a day early or stay a day late and wish to book extra nights at our hotel in Bishkek (price not included), I can help arrange this for you.
We will have a welcome dinner on the 20th & you won’t want to miss it! If you have no other option but to book a flight that arrives late at night on the 20th, you will miss the dinner, but we’ll still pick you up from the airport & you can meet the group in the morning.
You can book your departure flight out of FRU anytime on June 30.
If you have any questions about flight or arrival/departure times, send me an email at grouptrips@thewayfaress.com!
VISAS FOR KYRGYZSTAN
Most nationalities do not require a visa to travel to Kyrgyzstan for tourism.
To check your country’s visa requirements, please check online at the official government website or a reputable visa website like https://www.visahq.com/kyrgyzstan/. If you do need a visa, you can typically apply online for an E-Visa.
LONGER STAYS
Want to extend your trip in Kyrgyzstan? If you’re eager to continue the adventure, visit more sites, enjoy more trekking, or even explore more of the Stans nearby, let me know and I will be glad to help you as best as I can with bookings and travel planning.
If you expect to arrive a day early or stay a day after the trip, and want to book at the same accommodations as the group, please let me know ASAP as rooms are limited at the hotel.
QUESTIONS?
Contact me at grouptrips@thewayfaress.com with any questions and I’ll get back to you ASAP!
