Winter Wonderland: Skiing and Kayaking on the Shores of Issyk-Kul

Itinerary

This tour offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the beauty of Kyrgyzstan, enjoy outdoor sports, explore breathtaking landscapes, and connect with the local culture. Be prepared for unforgettable adventures and experiences that will stay with you long after the trip ends.

On the first day, we will meet at the airport upon your arrival or gather in the city before heading to Chon-Kemin. Along the beautiful mountain road, we will make several stops to enjoy panoramic views. We will also visit the popular and stunning Kegety Gorge. Continuing our journey, we will pass by the Burana Tower.

The Burana Tower is a minaret from the 10th-11th century, located in the Chui Valley in northern Kyrgyzstan. It is situated 80 km from the capital city of Bishkek and 12 km southwest of the town of Tokmok. The tower is part of the protected archaeo-architectural complex “Burana Tower” and is recognized as a cultural heritage site. It is one of the oldest structures in Central Asia.

Upon arrival in the valley, we will have some leisure time to relax. If desired, we can take a light walk in the area. In the evening, we will enjoy dinner together.

Included: Lunch, dinner, entrance tickets to the Burana Tower

We will start the day with breakfast at our guesthouse in Chon-Kemin and get ready for a thrilling journey to Karakol.

During the transfer, we will make a stop at the picturesque Kok Moinok Canyons – a unique and visually stunning natural formation. These canyons get their name from the nearby village of Kok-Moinok.

We will then pass through two gorges, where you can witness the classic beauty of Kyrgyzstan’s alpine meadows, forested slopes, rivers, and mountain lakes.

In the evening, we will arrive in the city of Karakol and check into our hotel for a comfortable stay.

Dinner will be served at an excellent ethnic cafe in the city, where you can taste authentic Kyrgyz cuisine and immerse in the local cultural atmosphere.

Included meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner.

During these days, we will fully immerse ourselves in the thrilling experiences offered by the Karakol Ski Resort.

After a hearty breakfast, we will make our way to the slopes, where we will acquire our ski passes and hit the ski runs. Whether you are an experienced skier or a beginner, the resort offers a wide range of trails suited to different skill levels. Feel the rush of adrenaline as you navigate the slopes and enjoy the stunning mountain views around you.

But skiing is not the only option at the resort. For those who prefer snowboarding, you can try out the snowboard runs and showcase your freestyle skills. The resort also provides access to off-piste areas, where you can explore untouched snow and create your own adventure.

At lunchtime, we will take a leisurely break to refuel and relax. Afterward, we will continue our exploration of the slopes, taking advantage of the prime conditions for skiing and snowboarding.

In the evening, we will descend into the town, where we will enjoy a delicious dinner. To further unwind and relieve any tension, we will visit the nearby hot springs and indulge in their warm, therapeutic waters.

Included meals: Breakfast, hot springs, dinner

We will start the day with breakfast at our guesthouse in Karakol and get ready for new adventures.

Our first stop will be in Teplikeyenka, where we will visit the unique Old Mill Museum. This museum is located in a picturesque village and showcases a restored wooden mill, giving you the opportunity to learn about the history of local flour production and the traditions of the local people.

After the museum tour, it’s time for an exciting kayaking experience. We will head to the lake, where you can enjoy the beautiful waterfront scenery and feel the thrill of kayaking. Immersing yourself in the calmness of nature, kayaking allows you to relax and unwind.

After enjoying the water activities, we will return to Karakol. In the evening, you’re free to explore the city, visit local attractions, or try various local culinary delicacies.

Dinner will be arranged with a Dungan family near Karakol.

Included meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner, entrance to museum, kayaking

Breakfast. Transfer to Bokonbaevo Village. Our plans include a visit to the famous Jeti-Oguz Gorge, where we will hike up to a panoramic viewpoint with a view of the entire valley. Afterwards, we will head towards Bokonbaevo Village, with our next stop planned in the picturesque Barskoon Gorge, where we will visit two beautiful waterfalls. Our next stop is in one of the most visited canyons of the southern shore of Issyk-Kul Lake called Skazka (Fairy Tale). The reason for its popularity is the easy accessibility of the canyon and its stunning landscapes and contrasts. Soil erosion, continuing for thousands of years, has created various whimsical stone and clay formations in the canyon. Skazka Canyon is composed of colorful clays, minerals, and rocks, which add to the beauty of this place. We will then continue our journey to Bokonbaevo Village. Accommodation and after dinner, we will have a meeting with local ethno musicians.
Dinner. Overnight in a yurt camp.
Meals included: breakfast, lunch, dinner

After a leisurely breakfast, we embark on a journey to the city of Bishkek, but along the way, we have several exciting stops planned.
Our first stop will be to meet a berkutchi – a hunter who uses eagles for hunting. We will witness an exhilarating eagle show and learn more about traditional hunting and the greatness of these magnificent birds.
Next, we will make an atmospheric stop at Ak Sai Canyons, where we will be greeted with breathtaking panoramas. With an easy walk, we will be able to enjoy the stunning views around us. On the way back, we can take a stroll along the shores of Issyk-Kul Lake, enjoying its beauty and refreshing atmosphere.
Afterwards, we will continue our journey to Bishkek, where dinner awaits us. Returning to the capital, we will be able to experience the atmosphere of the city and relax from our exciting adventures.
Meals included: breakfast, lunch, eagle show

Transport

Guide

Meals

Kayaking

Accommodation 

2 persons

$ 1250 per person twin room accommodation
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4 persons

$ 850 per person twin room accommodation
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