Tour program: Day 1
In the Saddle to the Peaks of Impressions

Period: June 15 – September 15
Days: 7 | Nights: 6
Tour Route: Bishkek – Karakol – Turgen – Altyn-Arashan – Karakol – Bishkek

One of the best ways to enjoy the beauty of mountain landscapes is horseback riding. It is not only a wonderful way to spend time but also an excellent remedy for many ailments. Horses are incredibly confident and agile animals. In particular, the Kyrgyz horse is known for its exceptional endurance and adaptability to mountainous conditions. You will enjoy one-day or multi-day horseback journeys deep into valleys and gorges. This equestrian route passes through picturesque valleys, mountain passes, alpine meadows, and glacial lakes of the Tien Shan. The journey combines the freedom of movement on horseback, the beauty of wild nature, and the chance to immerse yourself in the nomadic spirit.

Day 1

Bishkek – Skazka Canyon – Karakol
Distance: 410 km
Elevation Gain: +1000 m

Arrival in Bishkek.
Meeting with the driver at the airport.
Breakfast.
Driving through Boom Gorge, a gateway to the breathtaking mountain landscapes of the Tien Shan.
Lunch.
Swimming on a wild beach on the southern shore of Issyk-Kul Lake.
Arrival in Karakol, a city known for its unique architecture that blends historical and cultural traditions. Karakol is famous for its wooden churches, old buildings, and scenic natural landscapes.
Accommodation in a guesthouse.
Dinner at “Altyn-Kumara” café.

Day 2

Turgen – Boz-Uchuk (2,500 m a.s.l.)
Distance: 13 km
Elevation Gain: +800 m
Overnight: Tent camping

Breakfast.
Departure from Turgen and transition through forested trails to the Boz-Uchuk Valley. Along the way—dense spruce forests, mountain rivers, and pastures with herds of horses.
Lunch.
Rest stop near mountain lakes.
Evening dinner by the campfire.

Day 3

Boz-Uchuk – Jerghez (2,700 m a.s.l.)
Distance: 15 km
Elevation Gain: +200 m
Overnight: Tent camping

Breakfast.
The road leads through a wide valley surrounded by snow-capped peaks.
Lunch.
Along the way, we may meet shepherds grazing yaks and sheep.
Evening—overnight stay in the upper Jerghez Valley, traditional Kyrgyz dinner.

Day 4

Jerghez – Almaluu (3,100 m a.s.l.)
Distance: ~11 km
Elevation Gain: +400 m
Overnight: Tent camping on alpine meadows

Breakfast.
Trekking along mountain trails over passes offering stunning views of the Tien Shan valleys and glaciers.
Lunch.
Almaluu is famous for its blooming meadows, pure spring water, and a small waterfall.
Dinner by the campfire.

Day 5

Almaluu – Altyn-Arashan (2,500 m a.s.l.)
Distance: 17 km
Descent: -600 m
Overnight: Yurt or guesthouse

Breakfast.
Descent into the famous Altyn-Arashan Gorge—one of the most beautiful places in the Tien Shan.
Lunch.
Evening relaxation in natural hot springs and rest in cozy yurts.
Dinner.

Day 6

Altyn-Arashan – Ala-Kul Lake (3,500 m a.s.l.) – Karakol
Distance: ~15 km
Elevation Gain: +1,000 m

Breakfast.
Radial trek to Ala-Kul Lake. The final and most exciting day—hiking to the turquoise glacial lake Ala-Kul, where we can enjoy panoramic views of the mountain ranges and snowy peaks.
Lunch.
Descent to Altyn-Arashan Gorge.
Transfer to Karakol by off-road vehicle.
The stunning scenery and winding mountain road will captivate any nature lover!
Dinner at “Saymaluu” café.
Overnight stay in a guesthouse or hotel.

Day 7

Karakol – Bishkek
Distance: ~420 km
Elevation Change: -820 m

Breakfast.
Transfer to Bishkek.
Lunch at a café in Boom Gorge.
Transfer to the airport.

Tour Price (USD):

Number of People

Price (USD)

2

1700

3-4

1400

5-6

1100

7-8

1000

9-10

950

11-12

900

Prices include transportation.
Maximum group size: 12 people.
Prices are based on double occupancy.
The tour is designed for a morning arrival in Bishkek; if arriving in the evening or afternoon, we can discuss and adjust the itinerary.

What Makes This Route Special?

✅ Suitable for both experienced and novice riders
✅ Stunning landscapes: forests, passes, hot springs, glacial lakes
✅ Opportunity to experience nomadic life and try national dishes
✅ Unique combination of adrenaline, adventure, and serenity

Included in the Tour Price:

  • Transfers according to the itinerary
  • Accommodation (guesthouses and tents)
  • Breakfast, lunch, dinner, and packed lunches throughout the tour
  • Guide services
  • Hot springs entry fee
  • Souvenirs

Not Included in the Tour Price:

  • International airfare
  • Early check-in or late check-out at hotels
  • Travel insurance
  • Visa support and visa fees
  • Meals not specified in the program

Important to Know:

90% of Kyrgyzstan’s territory consists of mountains, half of which are rugged highlands above 3,000 meters. Be prepared for altitude changes of 300 to 1,000 meters. Temperatures range from +38°C to +5°C.

Recommended Packing List:

  • Raincoat or waterproof jacket
  • Windbreaker or light jacket
  • Hat or cap
  • Insect repellent
  • Short- and long-sleeved shirts
  • Comfortable shorts and extra socks (summer and warm)
  • Jeans or pants
  • Sweater
  • Sunglasses and sunscreen
  • Sturdy hiking shoes
  • Light shoes for city excursions
  • Small hiking backpack
  • Personal first aid kit
  • Personal hygiene items
  • Swimwear
  • Headlamp or flashlight with extra batteries
  • Camera
  • Lightweight hiking backpack and crossbody bag for documents.