OVERVIEW
Experience the magic of Kyrgyzstan’s winter landscapes on a journey from lively Bishkek to the snowy peaks of Ala Archa Canyon, the cultural treasures of Burana Tower, and the peaceful village life of Chon Kemin. Explore the northern shores of the majestic Issyk Kul Lake, discover ancient petroglyphs, and stay in a warm, luxurious yurt camp in the stunning Karkara Valley. Continue to charming Karakol, where you’ll visit beautiful wooden temples and enjoy panoramic views from the ski resort. Admire the iconic red cliffs of Djety Oguz, meet local families, witness traditional eagle hunting (optional), and learn about Kyrgyz nomadic culture. Conclude your adventure with scenic mountain passes, handicraft cooperatives, and one last taste of Bishkek’s vibrant culture. A perfect blend of nature, snow adventures, traditions, and authentic local encounters.
Trekking 
Family 
Culture 
Adventure & Nature 
Day 1: Airport – Bishkek city. Bishkek city – Ala Archa canyon – Bishkek city (120 km / 2,5 hours).
Meeting at the airport with local team and transfer to the city. Early check-in is not included. Little rest at the breakfast area and start tour in Bishkek and surroundings.
Firstly, we drive to the natural park Ala Archa for light walk, relaxing and meeting Kyrgyzstan winter nature. After walk transfer back to Bishkek and have a half day city tour.
Walk around snowy Ala Too Square, Kurmanzhan Datka Monument, main governmental buildings, Old Square with Parliament House and Lenin’s Monument. Finish at the Victory Square dedicated WWII.
Overnight in a hotel.
(No meal included today)
Day 2: Bishkek city – Chon Kemin Valley (170 km / 3 hours).
After breakfast, we leave Bishkek and drive along the Chui valley. Snow-capped mountains on the side looks fantastic and inspire for the trip with positive emotions.
One-hour drive to Burana Tower (UNESCO site) near Tokmok town.
Optionally: horseback riding games near Burana Tower. After excursion, drive to Chon Kemin valley.
Upon arrival, get accommodated in a guest house. Lunch. Options to do:
1) Walking around the village and meet local people. Playsnowballs with children.
2) Renting horses and ride up to the closest mountains (extra cost).
3) Horseback riding games nearby (extra cost).
4) Setting up yurt (nomadic house) (extra cost).
Dinner and overnight at the guest house.
Meals : (Breakfast – hotel, lunch – guest house, dinner – guest house)
Day 3: Chon Kemin valley – Issyk Kul Lake (180 km / 3 hours).
After breakfast, drive to Issyk Kul Lake via Boom gorge and to the Northern shore of Issyk Kul Lake.
Lunch in a café of Cholpon Ata town. Here we have several visits:
1) Open air Petroglyphs site with panoramic view to the Issyk Kul lake and snow moutnains.
2) Local historical museum.
After excursions, drive to the hotel and get accommodation in the resort area on the shore of Issyk Kul lake.
Dinner in the restaurant and overnight.
Meals: (Breakfast – guest house, lunch – cafe, dinner – resort)
Day 4: Issyk Kul Lake – Karkara valley (200 km / 3-4 hours).
Continue drive along the north shore of Issyk Kul Lake.
Today we reach beautiful area at the border with Kazakhstan – Karkara. Our jeeps goes along the mountain road, through piles of snow and reach Karkara region.
Here we stop at the luxury warm yurt camp with private facilities.
Time to explore the area walking along the canyon up and down, climb up closest hill to see panoramic view or use local good areas for ski touring and/or snowmobiling (with driver). The level of snow covers from 60 to 120 cm.
Lunch and dinner in Karkara camp.
Meals: (Breakfast – resort, lunch – yurt camp, dinner – yurt camp)
Day 5: Karkara valley – Karakol town (120 km / 3 hours).
Transfer to Karakol town.
Visit Museum of N. M. Przhevalski on the way to Karakol. Then inside Karakol stop by Dungan mosque – a unique building in a style of the Chinese pagoda which is functioning as mosque up to now and Russian Orthodox Holy Trinity Church built of wood.
Excursion to the Karakol ski base to take funicular to the panoramic view and admire landscapes of the Tup valley from 3000 m asl.Lunch in a café of Karakol town.
Accommodation in a guest house. Dinner in a local Dungan family. Overnight.
Optionally: cooking master class.
Meals: (Breakfast – yurt camp, lunch – cafe, dinner – dungan family)
Day 6: Karakol town – Djety Oguz gorge – Bokonbaev village – Kochkor village (250 km / 5 hours).
After breakfast, drive to Djety Oguz gorge to admire the landscapes and to take some photos.
At the beginning of the gorge we face with famous “Broken Heart Rock”. Walking up further to panorama to see those famous Seven Red Bulls rocks in white colors around.
Drive along the south shore of Issyk Kul to Bokonbaev village. Arrival and lunch in a local family house.
Optionally: Here you could meet eagle hunter to see demonstration of hunting with birds of prey. Such demonstration during winter time has unique sharm as birds are in their best shape for the hunting season and feel themselves very good.
After continue drive to Kochkor village.
Arrival and accommodation in a guest house. Dinner and rest.
Meals: (Breakfast – hotel, lunch – local family, dinner – guest house)
Day 7: Kochkor village – Bishkek city (200 km / 4 hours).
In the morning we visit local women cooperation and see products they produce and sell. Souvenir shop-museum is one of the most popular in our country.
Drive back to Bishkek city via Kuvaky pass and spectacular view to the frozen Orto Tokoi water reservoir.
Lunch en route.
Arrival to Bishkek. Visit ZUM Department store for the last shopping (if necessary), accommodation in a hotel and ready for the last dinner.
Dinner in a local restaurant.
Optionally: Folklore show during the dinner.
Meals: (Breakfast – guest house, lunch – cafe, dinner – restaurant)
Day 8: Bishkek city – airport. (35 km / 40-45 min)
Early breakfast. Today in Bishkek your trip concludes.
Meals: (Breakfast – hotel)
End of service
Our services include :
- Accommodation on DBL/TWN base - 7 nights in total
- Meals – full board (B - 7, L - 6, D - 6)
- Transport from arrival till departure on Jeeps 4WD Toyota Land Cruiser Prado or similar
- Mineral water (1l/day/pax)
- Tour escort guide (English speaking) except the last day
- Entrance and ecological fees during all the tour
Our services do not include :
- Any flights (International & Domestic) and airport tax
- Single supplement
- All personal expenses
- Tips for guide and driver
- Eagle hunting demonstration in Bokonbaev village
- Snowmobile excursion in Karkara valley – 100 USD per person
- Photo/video fees at museums
- Alcohol drinks
- Farewell folklore show during dinner in Bishkek
- Surcharge for Chritsmas, New Year Eve, (if any)
Clothes and equipment:
Please take into consideration that in winter time the temperature in Bishkek city reaches up to +10 oC and in the mountains the temperature decreases to -25 oC. Be prepared for unexpected changes of the weather and severe cold experience.
|
CITY |
HOTEL |
NIGHTS |
|
Bishkek |
My Hotel 3*/Bridges 3* or similar |
2 |
|
Chon Kemin |
Ashuu GH |
1 |
|
Cholpon Ata |
Karven 4* / Raduga or similar |
1 |
|
Karkara |
VIP yurt glamping (2 pax in one yurt) |
1 |
|
Karakol |
Matsunoki/Green Yard 3* or similar |
1 |
|
Kochkor |
Guest house |
1 |
Kazakhstan, the largest landlocked country in the world, offers a rich tapestry of cultural heritage, breathtaking landscapes, and a blend of modernity with tradition. Here's a comprehensive travel guide to help you explore this diverse Central Asian gem :
Before You Go :
Visa Requirements : Check the visa requirements for your nationality before planning your trip.
Travel Insurance : It's advisable to have travel insurance to cover any unforeseen events.
Currency : The currency used is the Kazakhstani Tenge (KZT). Credit cards are widely accepted in major cities, but it's recommended to carry cash, especially in rural areas.
Language : Kazakh and Russian are the official languages. While English is gaining popularity, especially in urban areas, it's helpful to learn some basic phrases in Russian.
Best Time to Visit :
The best time to visit Kazakhstan is during the spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is mild and comfortable for outdoor activities.
Summers (July to August) can be hot, especially in the southern regions, while winters (December to February) can be extremely cold with temperatures dropping below freezing.
Getting There :
By Air : The main international airports are in Nur-Sultan (formerly Astana) and Almaty, with direct flights available from major cities worldwide.
By Train : The Eurasian rail network connects Kazakhstan with neighboring countries like Russia, Uzbekistan, and China.
By Road : If you're in a neighboring country, you can enter Kazakhstan by road. However, make sure to check visa and border crossing requirements.
Getting Around :
Public Transport : In major cities like Nur-Sultan and Almaty, you can rely on buses, trams, and metros for getting around.
Taxis : Taxis are widely available, but make sure to negotiate the fare before starting your journey.
Renting a Car : Renting a car is a convenient option, especially if you're planning to explore rural areas. However, be prepared for long distances between destinations.
Top Destinations :
Nur-Sultan (Astana) :
Visit the Bayterek Tower for panoramic views of the city.
Explore the Khan Shatyr Entertainment Center, a giant tent-like structure housing shops, restaurants, and entertainment facilities.
Don't miss the Astana Opera House and the Palace of Peace and Reconciliation.
Almaty :
Take a cable car ride to Kok Tobe Hill for stunning views of the city.
Visit the Central State Museum to learn about Kazakhstan's history and culture.
Explore the vibrant Green Bazaar for local produce, souvenirs, and traditional Kazakh cuisine.
Charyn Canyon :
Marvel at the stunning rock formations and go hiking or camping in this miniature version of the Grand Canyon.
Don't miss the Valley of Castles, famous for its unique rock shapes.
Lake Kaindy :
Admire the surreal beauty of this submerged forest and turquoise lake, created after an earthquake in 1911.
Go snorkeling or diving to explore the sunken trees beneath the crystal-clear waters.
Altyn Emel National Park :
Discover the Singing Dunes, where the sand emits a peculiar sound when disturbed by the wind.
Spot rare wildlife such as the Przewalski's horse and the goitered gazelle.
Cultural Etiquette :
Respect local customs and traditions, especially in rural areas.
When visiting religious sites, dress modestly and remove your shoes before entering mosques.
It's customary to greet people with a handshake and maintain eye contact during conversations.
Cuisine :
Sample traditional Kazakh dishes like Beshbarmak (boiled meat with noodles), Plov (pilaf), and Shashlik (grilled meat skewers).
Don't miss trying Kumis, a fermented mare's milk drink, and Baursak, deep-fried dough balls served as a snack or dessert.
Safety Tips :
Kazakhstan is generally safe for tourists, but exercise caution in crowded areas and beware of pickpockets.
Respect local laws and regulations, especially regarding photography and alcohol consumption.
Be mindful of your belongings, especially in tourist areas and crowded markets.
Kazakhstan offers a diverse range of experiences, from modern cities to pristine natural landscapes. Whether you're exploring the futuristic architecture of Nur-Sultan, hiking in the majestic Charyn Canyon, or experiencing the nomadic way of life on the vast steppes, Kazakhstan promises an unforgettable adventure. Embrace the warmth of Kazakh hospitality and immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of culture and history that this fascinating country has to offer.
Kazakhstan
Winter of Dreams in Kyrgyzstan
Reference #: WTP0886
- Ala Archa National Park
- Snowy Mountain Walk
- Bishkek Winter City Tour
- Burana Tower
- Silk Road Landmark
- Immersion in Chon Kemin Valley
- Issyk Kul Lake
- Warm Yurt Camp in Karkara Valley
- Snow Adventures
- Karakol Highlights
- Djety Oguz Gorge
- Broken Heart Rock & Red Cliffs
- Eagle Hunting Demonstration
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Experience the magic of Kyrgyzstan’s winter landscapes on a journey from lively Bishkek to the snowy peaks of Ala Archa Canyon, the cultural treasures of Burana Tower, and the peaceful village life of Chon Kemin. Explore the northern shores of the majestic Issyk Kul Lake, discover ancient petroglyphs, and stay in a warm, luxurious yurt camp in the stunning Karkara Valley. Continue to charming Karakol, where you’ll visit beautiful wooden temples and enjoy panoramic views from the ski resort. Admire the iconic red cliffs of Djety Oguz, meet local families, witness traditional eagle hunting (optional), and learn about Kyrgyz nomadic culture. Conclude your adventure with scenic mountain passes, handicraft cooperatives, and one last taste of Bishkek’s vibrant culture. A perfect blend of nature, snow adventures, traditions, and authentic local encounters.