Holidays with Downtown

Meet the shepherds in the green valley of Soussamir and the alpine lake of Son Kul. You discover pastoral life. It is in an unusual setting at an altitude of 7,545 feet that the shepherds welcome you in their yurts. On foot or on horseback, discover the Kyrgyz landscapes.

Day 1: Bishkek

After Immigration and Customs formalities at Kishkek airport you’ll be met by your driver for a transfer to your hotel downtown.

Day 2: Bishkek, Suusamyr Valley, Kyzyl-Oi

Your guide will meet you at your hotel at 9 a.m. Together, you leave for the magnificent valley of Sousamir. Then, continue to the small village of Kyzyl-Oi, located at an altitude of 6,905 feet. The village takes its name from its surrounding mountains, with shades of red. The road that leads us there is a bit bumpy, but gradually we enter a completely different setting. Walk in the surroundings during the afternoon. [B/L/D]

Day 3: Kyzyl-Oi, Son-Kul Lake

Arrival on the banks of Son-Kul Lake, the second wonder of Kyrgyzstan. This immense Alpine lake is the country's first freshwater reserve. Located in the middle of the celestial mountains, it rises to an altitude of 9,895 feet and has long stimulated the imagination of foreign travelers. Its crystal-clear water is of incredible purity and changes color over time, passing from blue to green, sometimes turning orange. This afternoon you may go for a short horseback ride, after lunch. Rest of the day at leisure. [B/L/D]

Day 4: Son-Kul Lake

Take advantage of this day to relax and discover the way of life of the family with whom you are staying. Attend the creation of dairy products, the gathering of herds or even the milking of cows. [B/L/D]

Day 5: Son-Kul Lake, Kochkor, Chon-Kemin National Park

We take the main road to the village of Kochkor, renowned for its local development initiatives. Visit the women's cooperative where felt carpets (sherdaks) are made. Then, attend a traditional Kyrgyz folklore show including a storyteller of Manas (legendary Kyrgyz heroes) and traditional music and songs. After the show, continue to Chon-Kemin National Park. Arrive in the green valley of Chon Kemin, a nature reserve offering a diversity of landscapes reconciling semi-desert, glaciers and gorge. Take the opportunity to stroll around and take in the fantasic scenery. Continue to the camping place for dinner and overnight. [B/L/D]

Day 6: Chon-Kemin National Park, Bishkek

This morning we get on our mounts and ride on the pastures of Chon Kemin. We stop to visit the ruins of the Burana Minaret, a Jami mosque destroyed in the 13th century during the Tartar invasions. Climb to the roof of the minaret where you can enjoy the splendid view of the surrounding countryside. Then, visit the associated museum before leaving the green mountains of Kyrgyzstan where you discovered a warm people with traditions still so persistent to this day. Return to the Kyrgyz capital for check-in and overnight at your hotel. [B/L]

Day 7: Bishkek

Early morning transfer to the airport to board your flight back home. [B]

[B] = Breakfast | [B/L] = Breakfast and Lunch | [B/L/D] = Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner