Tour program: Day 1
Off-Road Tour “Around Issyk-Kul” – 2 Days
Season: May – October
Route: Cholpon-Ata – Skazka Canyon – Barskoon Gorge – Jeti-Ögüz Gorge – Karakol – Cholpon-Ata (600 km)
Duration: 2 days
Start & Finish: Hotel in Cholpon-Ata and nearby areas
Tour Overview:
Day 1: Through the Canyon Lights to the Heights of Arabel
Morning:
Early departure from Cholpon-Ata towards Balykchy. A short stop for coffee and panoramic views from the western shore of the lake. Next, we head to the magical Fairy Tale Canyon (Skazka), where nature has sculpted sandstone into castles, towers, and mystical shapes. Enjoy a walk through this surreal landscape.
Afternoon:
Transfer to the foothills of the Terskey Ala-Too mountains, to the Barskoon Gorge. Visit the scenic waterfalls “Leopard’s Tears” and “Champagne Splash.”
Then begins an ascent along an old dirt road to the Arabel Lakes. The road winds through high-mountain pastures until it reaches the Suek Pass — a realm of wind and vast open skies.
Evening:
Descent into the Jeti-Ögüz Valley, one of the most picturesque places in Kyrgyzstan.
Stop at the legendary rock formations “Seven Bulls” and “Broken Heart”, wrapped in myths of love and
battle.Accommodation in cozy yurts at the foot of the mountains. Traditional dinner and evening by the fire under the stars.
Day 2
Day 2: Temples, Mountains & Hot Springs
Morning: Breakfast at the yurt camp.
A light walk through the blooming Kok-Jaiyk Valley to the hidden mountain waterfall “Maiden’s Braids.”
Transfer to Karakol, a cultural capital of the eastern Issyk-Kul.
Explore its architectural gems:
— The unique Dungan Mosque built in Chinese style without a single nail
— The historic Holy Trinity Orthodox Church, preserving the spirit of past eras
Lunch: Authentic natoinal cuisine.
Afternoon:
Swimming and relaxation in the thermal waters of Oruktu hot springs — a natural treat for body and
soul. Then we head to the Semyonov Gorge, known for its spruce forests and shepherd settlements.
The route crosses a mountain pass into the Grigoriev Gorge, where the sun sets behind snow-covered
peaks. Return to your hotel by sunset.
Tour price
Included in the price:
• Transport
• Water
• Driver-guide
Not included in the price:
• Meals
• Overnight stay in yurts
Number of people | Price per vehicle (USD) |
Up to 6 people | $500 |
What to Bring?
What to Bring:
✔ Comfortable shoes
✔ Warm clothing (mountain weather can be unpredictable)
✔ Swimsuit and towel for hot springs
✔ Camera or phone for capturing moments
This journey offers you a chance to experience diverse nature and rich culture of the Issyk-Kul region —
all in just two days!