Multi-day tour
Around Issyk-Kul
About the tour
An exciting journey around the legendary Lake Issyk-Kul, the world’s second-largest high-altitude lake. This is a complete route around the lake with visits to the main attractions of both shores.
You will see the Fairy Tale Canyon, the red rocks of Jety-Oguz, the Grigoryev Gorge, the Semenov Gorge, thermal springs, and much more. This tour will introduce you to the culture, nature, and hospitality of Kyrgyzstan.
Gallery
What's included
Full circle
Travel around the entire lake along both shores
Accommodation
4 nights in guest houses and yurts
Full board
All meals and national cuisine
Duration
5 days / 4 nights
Tour program
Day 1: Bishkek - South Shore
Fairy Tale Canyon, the red rocks of Jety-Oguz
Day 2: Karakol and surroundings
Karakol city, Barskoon Gorge
Day 3: North Shore
Grigoryev Gorge, Cholpon-Ata
Day 4: Thermal springs
Relax at the thermal springs
Day 5: Transfer to the hotel
Arrival in the capital
Price
1 person
$450 per person
2 people
$400 per person
3 people
$380 per person
4+ people
$350 per person
Before the trip
Frequently asked questions
- We select an experienced local supplier and horse handler.
- Equipment: we check helmets for all riders.
- We check load capacity (rider up to 100–110 kg, partner up to 80 kg).
- Distance: approximately 16 km per day. Operation time: 6 hours in mountain conditions; 8 hours on the direct track.
- We do not use birds listed in the Red Book (falcons).
- We check that the proper equipment is available (hood/cap, etc.).
- We do not remove birds from their usual habitat.
- We ensure tourists wear suitable clothing (no hanging elements).
- Drones are not allowed during filming.
- As guides, we hire only local people and provide a fair and safe working environment that supports and respects local communities.
- When hiring guides, we ensure fair pay and working conditions.
- We provide each guide with clear, specific tour instructions.
- All our guides know health and safety rules, how to provide first aid, and what to do in emergencies.
- We hire only qualified guides to accompany our guests when visiting sensitive cultural sites, heritage places, or ecologically sensitive areas.
- All transport used for our tours is selected based on the number of guests and the goals of the itinerary.
- We comply with all requirements of the Kyrgyz Republic law (insurance, permits, etc.).
- We monitor safety and the technical condition of vehicles (including seat belts).
- We track drivers’ driving time.
- We verify drivers’ competence, experience, and reviews.
- We ensure comfort and cleanliness of transport.
- We check the availability of a first-aid kit, a fire extinguisher, and other necessary equipment.
- We follow safe-driving obligations and traffic rules.
- We check that we have the required documents to enter border areas.
- We choose vehicle size and type depending on group size.
- We optimize routes so that vehicle travel time does not exceed what is necessary.
- We select accommodation facilities according to company standards, tour specifics, the budget, and traveler needs.
- All accommodations we work with are owned by local residents, and 100% of their staff are representatives of the local community.
- All our properties are in good technical condition and meet health and safety standards—for example, every place has a first-aid kit and fire-safety equipment.
- Meals are always high-quality and fresh; whenever possible, ingredients are grown and produced in Kyrgyzstan. Meat, vegetables, and dairy products are purchased from farmers living near the accommodation.
- Use locally produced food and drinks, and promote local shopping as much as possible during tours and excursions.
- We respect guests’ dietary preferences (by prior request: we prepare meals considering dietary requirements and allergies, for example vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, lactose-free, etc.).
- We minimize food waste—for example by optimizing portion sizes.
- We reduce single-use individual water bottles. Instead, we provide water from a large dispenser and ask our clients to use reusable bottles. Regardless of conditions, our water is always absolutely safe.
- When serving food at venues and during hikes, we do not use disposable tableware. We use reusable cups, mugs, plates, and utensils.
- For us, guest well-being and satisfaction are extremely important.
- We provide high-quality and truthful information about our products and services.
- We protect private data and guest confidentiality.
- We inform guests before arrival about how to prepare for visiting our country and the specific tour.
- We encourage guests to visit local restaurants and shops and buy local souvenirs.
- We regularly assess our guests’ satisfaction and take action to improve our services and products. In case of complaints, we review them and respond quickly.