This 9-day journey takes you through the highlights of southeastern Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan, combining vibrant cities, dramatic canyons, alpine lakes, and authentic nomadic culture. Begin in Almaty with a city tour, then explore Charyn Canyon, Kolsay and Kaindy Lakes before crossing into Kyrgyzstan. Discover Karakol and hike to the hot springs of Altyn Arashan, travel along Issyk-Kul Lake with visits to Jety-Oguz and Skazka Canyon, and experience traditional eagle hunting. Continue to the remote beauty of Son-Kul Lake, staying in yurts and enjoying horse riding and nomadic life. The journey ends in Bishkek with cultural sightseeing and Silk Road heritage at Burana Tower.

Upon arrival in Almaty, Kazakhstan’s cultural and former capital, you will be met and transferred to your hotel. After some rest, begin a full-day city tour exploring the highlights of this green and lively city set against the backdrop of the Trans-Ili Alatau Mountains. Visit Panfilov Park and the striking Zenkov Cathedral, one of the world’s tallest wooden buildings. Continue to Republic Square, Abai Opera House, and enjoy panoramic views from Kok-Tobe Hill (by cable car or drive). Lunch will be in a local restaurant, followed by a leisurely walk through central streets and parks. In the evening, enjoy a welcome dinner introducing Kazakh cuisine.

Meals: Lunch, Dinner
Overnight: Hotel in Almaty

Today you depart Almaty and drive toward the spectacular Charyn Canyon, often compared to the Grand Canyon for its dramatic rock formations. Walk through the famous Valley of Castles, where wind and water have shaped towering red cliffs into surreal forms. After lunch, continue to the lush mountain area of the Kolsay Lakes, a chain of crystal-clear alpine lakes surrounded by pine forests and snow-capped peaks. Enjoy a gentle walk along the lakeshore before driving to the nearby village of Saty, where you will spend the night in a cozy local guesthouse.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Overnight: Guesthouse/Hotel in Saty Village

In the morning, visit the unique Kaindy Lake, famous for its submerged forest, where spruce trees rise eerily from turquoise water. After exploring the area, drive toward the Kegen border crossing. After border formalities, you will meet your Kyrgyz team and continue the journey into Kyrgyzstan. Drive along scenic mountain roads to Karakol, a charming town with a multicultural heritage. Upon arrival, visit the Dungan Mosque, built without nails in Chinese architectural style, and the historic Russian Orthodox Holy Trinity Church.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Overnight: Hotel/Guesthouse in Karakol

Today is dedicated to one of the most beautiful alpine valleys in Kyrgyzstan – Altyn Arashan, meaning “Golden Spring.” You will hike approximately 11 km one way, with an elevation gain of about 600–700 meters, passing through forests, mountain rivers, and open meadows with stunning views of snow-covered peaks. The valley is famous for its natural hot springs, where you can relax and soak after the hike. In the late afternoon, return to Karakol on foot. For those who prefer not to hike, a special 4WD Russian vehicle can be arranged to reach Altyn Arashan.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Overnight: Hotel/Guesthouse in Karakol

After breakfast, drive to the striking Jety-Oguz Gorge, known for its red sandstone formations, including the famous Seven Bulls and Broken Heart rocks. Continue along the southern shore of Issyk-Kul Lake to Skazka (Fairy Tale) Canyon, where colorful cliffs and shapes resemble castles and animals. In the evening, arrive in Bokonbaevo and meet a local berkutchu (eagle hunter) for a traditional eagle hunting demonstration, offering insight into this ancient nomadic practice. Dinner and overnight near the lakeshore.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Overnight: Lakeshore Yurt Camp/Guesthouse in Bokonbaevo

Today you travel inland toward the Ak-Sai Canyon, also known as the Canyon of Forgotten Rivers, a remote and dramatic landscape shaped by wind and water. Continue to Kochkor village, where you will visit a local women’s cooperative and learn about traditional felt carpet (shyrdak) making, an important part of Kyrgyz nomadic culture. In the afternoon, drive through mountain passes to the high-altitude plateau of Son-Kul Lake (3,016 m), a pristine alpine lake surrounded by endless pastures and summer nomad camps.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Overnight: Yurt Camp at Son-Kul Lake

Spend a full day immersed in the peaceful atmosphere of Son-Kul. Horse riding along the lakeshore is included, offering a true taste of nomadic life. Other optional activities include meeting local herders, learning about yurt life, helping with daily nomadic chores, short hikes to nearby hills for panoramic views, or simply relaxing and enjoying the vast landscapes and changing light over the lake. In the evening, enjoy a traditional dinner in the yurt and stargazing under the clear mountain sky.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Overnight: Yurt Camp at Son-Kul Lake

After breakfast, drive toward Bishkek, the capital of Kyrgyzstan. En route, stop at the historic Burana Tower, a minaret dating back to the 11th century and a key site along the ancient Silk Road. Explore the open-air collection of balbals (stone warriors) and enjoy views over the Chuy Valley. Continue to Bishkek for hotel check-in. In the evening, enjoy a farewell dinner with the team in a local restaurant.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Overnight: Hotel in Bishkek

In the morning, enjoy a city tour of Bishkek. Visit Ala-Too Square, the State History Museum, Oak Park, and other key landmarks reflecting the city’s Soviet and modern history. Continue to Osh Bazaar, one of the largest and most colorful markets in Central Asia, perfect for souvenir shopping. After the tour, transfer to the airport for your onward flight.

Meals: Breakfast

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