Kyrgyzstan: Lakes, Valleys, Canyons and Nomadic life

Arrival in Bishkek, Long bus trip to Bishkek (12-14 hours with stops). Checking into a lovely hostel famous among foreign travelers. Walking in the city center, visiting the Ala Too square, a bustling city bazar and an authentic restaurant of Kyrgyz cuisine.

Early in the morning we take a bus to Issyk Ata, hot springs 2700 meter above sea level. We will swim in the springs, explore shepherd’s paths to the waterfall and the ancient carving of Buddha Sakyamuni, the founder of Buddhism. Night in a simple hotel near the springs.

Departure to the town of Karakol (6-7 hours), near the Issyk kul lake, via the picturesque Bom canyon. We will walk around one part of the picturesque lake, those interested can swim in the lake (water is about +15 Celsius). Then we walk to the nearby Museum of ancient petroglyphs. Night in a local hotel.

We continue our drive around the Issyk kul lake, turn to the snow covered mountains near the Barskoon river and arrive in a stunningly beautiful plato with lakes 4000 meters above sea level, to permafrost mountains and lifeless mountain tundra. We will walk near the lakes, then drive down to 3000 meters and spend the night in a small family run hotel. This place has no mobile coverage, asphalt or electricity. But the family has a good sauna and make delicious plov. Next morning we move to the Oto-Tokoy water reserve where camels graze, and proceed to the town of Kochkorka. If we arrive late we will spend the night in a local hotel. If we arrive earlier we will proceed to the mesmerizing Son-Kul lake (2 hours) and spend the night in the yurt with local shepherds. Next morning we take off to explore the lake and the beautiful meadows with mountain rivers and ride horses and donkeys. We spend another night in yurts, heated by a small stove, and enjoy local food and tea. Next morning we take off to the village of Chaek. During 10-12 hours trip we will visit canyon of Koko Meren mountain river with breathtaking landscapes and go through lifeless Suusamyr valley. We spend a night in a small hotel in Toktogul or Karakol where we will enjoy mare's milk - kumis, and fresh trout cooked on the open fire.

In the morning we drive further south and have lunch near the Toktogul water reserve. After about 6 hours we arrive in Sary Chelek national park, famous for its blue lakes. Here we spend the night in a simple house near the river. Next morning we ascend to the main lake where we spend a relaxing day, and might ride boats. Those interested can swim in unbelievably clear waters of about +15 Celsius. Night in the same house near the river.

In the morning we go to the city of Osh (4 hours) where we will visit the holy Sulaiman-to mountain with the medieval mosque and bathing houses on top. According to local legends, in one of these caves, lived Zarathoustra - the famous zoroastrian prophet. Night in Osh. Morning flight to Bishkek and back home.