Connect with nomadic traditions, breathtaking landscapes, and warm hospitality.
Experience two cultures, one mountain range, and endless adventure.
One-of-a-kind cross-border tour through the heart of Central Asia.
Tour itinerary
Embark on an unforgettable 5-day journey through the dramatic landscapes of southeastern Kazakhstan and northeastern Kyrgyzstan. Travel through alpine lakes, red rock canyons, flower-covered valleys, and authentic nomadic villages, crossing two fascinating Central Asian cultures along the way
5-Day Cross-Border Adventure
From Almaty to Bishkek via the Heart of the Tian Shan
Embark on an unforgettable 5-day journey through the dramatic landscapes of southeastern Kazakhstan and northeastern Kyrgyzstan. Travel through alpine lakes, red rock canyons, flower-covered valleys, and authentic nomadic villages, crossing two fascinating Central Asian cultures along the way.
Full details of the tour
Your adventure begins in Almaty, Kazakhstan’s vibrant cultural hub. Depart early and head eastward through the semi-desert steppe, gradually gaining elevation as the landscapes become greener and the mountains rise in the distance. Short stop at Charyn Canyon, often dubbed the “Grand Canyon of Central Asia,” to explore the Valley of Castles and admire surreal red rock formations.Scenic drive through the foothills of the Tian Shan Mountains with stops for photos. Arrive in Saty, a peaceful Kazakh village nestled near the Kolsai Lakes National Park. In the afternoon, hike or take a short drive to Kolsai Lake I, a gem of turquoise water surrounded by thick spruce forest. Explore village life in Saty
Distance: ~290 km
Altitude: Almaty (700 m) → Saty (1,300 m)
Accommodation: Guesthouse in Saty
Meals: Lunch, Dinner
Distance: ~290 km
Altitude: Almaty (700 m) → Saty (1,300 m)
Accommodation: Guesthouse in Saty
Meals: Lunch, Dinner
Cross into Kyrgyzstan via the Kegen Border, passing panoramic mountain landscapes and remote highland pastures. Photo stops in the Jyrgalan Valley and views of the distant Teskey Ala-Too mountain range. Cultural visit in Karakol, a charming town with strong Dungan, Russian, and Kyrgyz influences. Visit the Dungan Mosque (Chinese-style wooden mosque). Explore the Russian Orthodox Church.
Distance: ~270 km (including border crossing at Kegen)
Altitude: Saty (1,300 m) → Karakol (1,700 m)
Accommodation: Cozy guesthouse in Karakol
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Distance: ~270 km (including border crossing at Kegen)
Altitude: Saty (1,300 m) → Karakol (1,700 m)
Accommodation: Cozy guesthouse in Karakol
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
A short but scenic drive takes you to the dramatic Jeti-Ögüz Gorge, named after the "Seven Bulls" red sandstone formation. This area is famous for its alpine meadows, pine forests, and healing springs. Hike to panoramic viewpoints. Horseback riding to waterfalls or deeper into the gorge. Relax in a traditional yurt camp and experience nomadic hospitality under the stars
Distance: ~35 km
Altitude: Karakol (1,700 m) → Jeti-Ögüz (2,200 m)
Accommodation: Yurt camp
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Distance: ~35 km
Altitude: Karakol (1,700 m) → Jeti-Ögüz (2,200 m)
Accommodation: Yurt camp
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Drive along the southern shore of Issyk-Kul Lake, the second-largest alpine lake in the world. The route is framed by snowcapped peaks and offers plenty of scenic and cultural stops. Visit Skazka (Fairy Tale) Canyon, an otherworldly landscape of colorful sandstone formations. Stop at Manjyly-Ata, the “Valley of Sacred Springs”. Swim or relax by the shores of Issyk-Kul. Arrive in Bokonbaeva, a traditional village known for preserving ancient Kyrgyz customs. Watch a demonstration of traditional eagle hunting. Enjoy a home-cooked Kyrgyz dinner and storytelling with your hosts.
Distance: ~150 km
Altitude: Jeti-Ögüz (2,200 m) → Bokonbaeva (1,800 m)
Accommodation: Yurt stay in the southern beach of Issyk Kul lake
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Distance: ~150 km
Altitude: Jeti-Ögüz (2,200 m) → Bokonbaeva (1,800 m)
Accommodation: Yurt stay in the southern beach of Issyk Kul lake
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Begin the day with a scenic drive along Issyk-Kul’s western shore, passing villages and open landscapes. Hike in Konorchek Canyon (approx. 2–3 hours): This hidden gem offers surreal landscapes of red sandstone towers and dry riverbeds reminiscent of the American Southwest. It’s a photographer’s paradise and a peaceful escape into raw nature. Then continue driving to Burana Tower, a 9th-century minaret and one of Kyrgyzstan’s most important Silk Road monuments. Opportunity to see local handicraft shops and stop at roadside fruit markets. Arrive in Bishkek, the capital of Kyrgyzstan, in the late afternoon. End of tour.
Distance: ~300 km
Altitude: Bokonbaeva (1,800 m) → Bishkek (800 m)
Accommodation: End of tour / optional hotel in Bishkek
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Distance: ~300 km
Altitude: Bokonbaeva (1,800 m) → Bishkek (800 m)
Accommodation: End of tour / optional hotel in Bishkek
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Visual journey
explore stunning images and videos of breathtaking scenery, cultural experiences, and memorable adventures.
Pricing details
The more people in the group, the lower the price per person. This is because many costs are shared.
2 people
$1500 per person
3 people
$2200 per person
3 people
$1200
4 people
1000 per person
- Included to the price
- All transportation with the driver.
- English-speaking guide.
- All meals as listed.
- Horse riding in Jeti Oguz
- Rent of horses and porters
- Accommodation (yurts, guesthouses, hotels)
- Entrance fees and activities (hot springs, museums, eagle hunting demonstration)
- Not included to the price
- International flights
- Travel insurance
- Visa fees (if applicable)
- Alcoholic beverages and personal expenses
- Tips for guide and driver(according to your wishes)
Why choose this kyrgyz-kazakh adventure?
Discover Central Asia in 10 unforgettable days of stunning landscapes, rich culture, and diverse cuisine that create lifelong memories.
- Unparalleled beautyWitness breathtaking landscapes, from soaring mountains to vast steppes.
- Cultural immersionConnect with local communities and traditions through authentic experiences.
- All-inclusive easeRelax and enjoy – everything is taken care of, from accommodation to activities.
- Unique itineraryExplore hidden gems and experience a journey unlike any other, traversing two captivating countries.
Requirements and notes for the tour
The tour ranges from 800 m to 2,300 m in elevation.
No extreme altitude, but slight acclimatization may be felt on Day 3.
No extreme altitude, but slight acclimatization may be felt on Day 3.
We will cross from Kazakhstan to Kyrgyzstan on Day 2 via the Kegen border checkpoint.
Please keep all documents accessible and allow for border control procedures.
The border is open seasonally (typically May–October).
Please keep all documents accessible and allow for border control procedures.
The border is open seasonally (typically May–October).
Some sections involve unpaved or winding mountain roads.
Vehicles are 4x4 or off-road-ready, and driven by experienced drivers.
Vehicles are 4x4 or off-road-ready, and driven by experienced drivers.
Accommodation includes local guesthouses and traditional yurts.
Facilities in mountain areas are basic but clean and cozy.
Some nights may have shared bathrooms and limited Wi-Fi access.
Facilities in mountain areas are basic but clean and cozy.
Some nights may have shared bathrooms and limited Wi-Fi access.
Most meals are included and feature local Kazakh and Kyrgyz cuisine.
Vegetarian and other dietary options available on request.
Vegetarian and other dietary options available on request.
Passport with at least 6 months’ validity.
Visa (if required): Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan allow visa-free access for many nationalities (EU, UK, USA, etc.).
If a visa is required, it must be arranged in advance.
Visa (if required): Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan allow visa-free access for many nationalities (EU, UK, USA, etc.).
If a visa is required, it must be arranged in advance.
This tour includes light to moderate hiking (Konorchek, Kolsai, Jeti-Ögüz).
Participants should be able to walk 2–4 hours at high altitudes (up to 2,300 m).
Participants should be able to walk 2–4 hours at high altitudes (up to 2,300 m).
Comfortable trekking shoes or hiking boots
Warm layers (nights can be cold, especially in mountain areas)
Waterproof jacket and sun protection (hat, sunscreen, sunglasses)
Daypack for short hikes
Reusable water bottle
Warm layers (nights can be cold, especially in mountain areas)
Waterproof jacket and sun protection (hat, sunscreen, sunglasses)
Daypack for short hikes
Reusable water bottle
No vaccinations are required, but routine immunizations should be up to date.
Please inform us in advance of any dietary restrictions or medical conditions.
Please inform us in advance of any dietary restrictions or medical conditions.
Overnight upgrade in Bishkek after tour
Extension trips to Ala Archa Gorge or Son-Kul Lake
Extension trips to Ala Archa Gorge or Son-Kul Lake
Secure your spot
Questions about your trip? We're here to help plan your adventure in Kyrgyzstan and Kazakhstan. Call or email us!
+996 555 123 456 (Kyrgyzstan)
+7 777 987 654 (Kazakhstan)
inquiries@adventuretour.com
+7 777 987 654 (Kazakhstan)
inquiries@adventuretour.com
Almaty, Kazakhstan (Head Office)
