Expert travel storyteller Jordan Adkins, founder of InspiredByMaps.com, brings a decade of adventures across 101 countries and 450+ UNESCO sites into rich, off-the-beaten-path narratives, melding ecological expertise with genuine, seasoned travel insights. His full bio can be found here.
When you step foot in Kyrgyzstan, you feel a different magical energy; a world of adventure and mystery with its rugged terrain and majestic landscapes that will leave you dumbstruck. This magical region of the globe is tucked away in the center of Central Asia, bounded to the north by Kazakhstan, to the east by China, to the southwest by Tajikistan, and to the west by Uzbekistan.
From the snow-capped peaks of the Tien Shan mountains to the turquoise waters of Lake Issyk-Kul, Kyrgyzstan’s natural beauty is unparalleled, and here’s why: this distant part of the world is home to over 88 mountain ranges, offering endless opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts – trekkers, bikers, climbers, and even strollers who love to walk the distances to the Tien Shan mountains or the highest peak, Jengish Chokusu, standing at a staggering 7,439 meters tall and so on.
For thousands of years, Kyrgyzstan’s rugged mountains and wide open spaces have given a distinct nomadic lifestyle, which is why the Kyrgyz people have a deep history that blends nomadic and settled cultures, and they take great pleasure in their legacy. Families still reside in yurts, the Kyrgyz people’s traditional movable homes, depending on their flocks of sheep and animals for subsistence.
Imagine encountering a nomadic family who greeted you with open arms into their traditional yurt, giving you a glimpse of what it’s like to be a nomad as you assist the family in moving their yurt to a new grazing area and milking their cows and livestock.
You will be astounded by the hospitality of these simple yet experienced people, who will serve you delicious traditional food while telling you centuries-old stories about their cultures and customs. The best part is learning how to perform a native Kyrgyz instrument, the Komuz. Though it was not a fancy lifestyle, you will be thankful for having attempted something fresh and authentic that will remain with you for a long time.
And, where were we?
Aha, the Silk Road, a historical trade path linking China and Europe, passed through Kyrgyzstan, leaving a legacy of varied cultures and faiths – mosques, mausoleums, and caravanserais dotting the landscape are reminders of the country’s part in the Silk Road’s past.
Kyrgyzstan is a nation that lives on an adventure, beckoning the daring to start on a voyage of adrenaline-pumping activities such as galloping on horses through the mountains, crossing alpine meadows, and getting glimpses of the horizon’s snow-capped summits.
Alternatively, the most adventurous can go sledding at the Karakol ski resort, which offers a superior skiing experience in Central Asia. White-water rafting on Kyrgyzstan’s wild rivers is a must-try experience for those seeking even more adventure; it will get your heart racing and your spirits soaring in this land of brave adventurers.
However, there is an ocean of leisurely-inspired activities for those wanting a more peaceful pace, and Kyrgyzstan has plenty to offer you as well. Lake Issyk-Kul, the world’s second-largest alpine lake, is a famous sunbathing and swimming location where you can wash away all your worries and thoughts.
What about Altyn Arashan’s hot springs? This breathtaking location allows you to unwind and refresh your body and mind in natural mineral water. Mind-blowing!
All of these experiences are wonderful, but the pain is that organizing these trips and determining what activities to do and how much they will cost can be time-demanding and vexing. But there is positive news: if you choose to travel on a group trip, you won’t have to do all of these things.
We have done the legwork for you by providing you with the 6 best tours to discover Kyrgyzstan with ease because these tours have been crafted by industry experts who have traversed the path you want to travel and have made it so simple that the only hard work you need to do is select which dates suit your calendar and voila!
And don’t forget how much money you’ll save while still having a great time traveling with like-minded people and wonderfully sharing memories and experiences. Isn’t this amazing? Well, having said all of that, let’s get to the 6 best tours to discover Kyrgyzstan with ease.
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Walking in Kyrgyzstan
Explore!
Explore Travel Services will guide you on an exciting journey! This European trip organizer, as the name suggests, has over four decades of expertise in planning and leading trips both within and outside of Europe.
Their proclivity for discovering hidden gems of places that the general public has yet to discover is akin to a private organization to which only they have access. What else would you expect from a company that has been around for so long?
Explore believes that visitors should not just observe a country, but should immerse themselves in its culture and way of life. After all, what was the point of starting this journey in the first place? The company promises a memorable experience by bringing you in contact with the local people and their traditions.
Set out on an exciting journey into the heart of Kyrgyzstan’s unspoiled wilderness and semi-nomadic culture; lace up your boots and prepare to experience the breathtaking majesty of the Tien Shan mountains on several exhilarating day treks.
Your trip starts in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan’s bustling capital. Nestled at the foot of the towering Tien Shan range, Bishkek is a modern metropolis with broad, tree-lined boulevards and open parks and a rich past dating back to the Silk Road.
You’ll learn about the clay fort constructed by the Khan of Kokand in 1825, only to be demolished by the Russians 43 years later as you walk through Oak Park and experience the city’s major landmarks and buildings. Bishkek, on the other hand, did not remain down for long; it was rebuilt in 1878 and has been developing ever since.
It’s time to submerge yourself in Kyrgyzstan’s lively culture by visiting the bustling market of Osh, which is a sensory overload, packed with colorful booths and bustling throngs of natives doing their daily buying. Take your time absorbing it all in, meet the locals and engage with them by purchasing a few souvenirs to remember your journey.
The true journey starts when you leave the city and travel to the breathtaking Ala Archa Gorge in the Tien Shan Mountains. This rugged terrain is home to a wide range of creatures, including the elusive Marco Polo sheep and the vicious snow leopard.
The six-kilometer walk will lead you through pine woods and mountain fields, as well as past gushing waterfalls and craggy rocks. This will appeal to the group’s adventurers; you’ll walk through the gorges of the Tien Shan mountains, travel around the coasts of enormous Lake Issyk Kul, and even stay the night in a traditional yurt tent that will make you feel like a local.
This trip is for a party of 16 people ranging in age from 16 to 85. It is wholly guided and family-friendly, with a price tag of $1310 per individual. It covers 9 days of accommodation, meals, and transportation.
Kyrgyzstan: Tian Shan Gorge Trek
Exodus Travels
Exodus Travels, the bold European travel company that has taken thrill-seekers on mind-boggling excursions for the past 45 years, invites you to join them on an adrenaline-pumping journey. Nothing beats the sensation of venturing into unknown territory, immersing oneself in new cultures, and welcoming hidden views – whether a majestic mountain range, harsh desert, or verdant rainforest.
We completely agree; the thrill of discovering new environments is nothing short of amazing. Since their first journey to the Himalayas Mountains, Exodus Travel has continually pushed the envelope, and they now have an amazing collection of over 500 exciting trips covering 90 nations.
Your journey will take you through magnificent landscapes of cascading rivers and cascades, with breathtaking views of the royal Lake Issyk-Kul and the snow-drenched summits of the Tian Shan Range.
These sights will steal your breath away, leaving you speechless and filled with amazement as you make your way through the rugged terrain, listening to the rustling of leaves in the wind and the singing of birds in the treetops, immersing yourself in the natural beauty that surrounds you.
The first phase of your journey will lead you through a succession of rugged, rarely explored gorges that only the most daring of visitors have seen. But don’t fear, you’re up for the task – after all, adventure is in your blood!
You’ll enter Jety-Oguz Gorge, famous for its immense beauty, and it’s here that the real magic happens – you’ll be surrounded by surreal red mountains and crystal clear streams as you make your way through the lush green landscape, taking in the beautiful color blends, feeling like a free bird with a call to adventure.
On another day, you’ll have the opportunity to walk to the foot of Karakol Peak, the region’s highest peak, for a truly unforgettable experience, as well as rejuvenate in Altyn Arashan’s thermal baths, discover how to make traditional ‘lagman’ noodles in a family home, and take a walking tour of Bishkek to learn about the city’s rich and fascinating history.
Before your trip to Juukuchak Gorge, you will have more opportunities to soak in the majesty of this country and explore the deep on your own. You could swim in the lake’s crystalline waters or lounge on its sandy beaches in the scorching heat; the option is completely yours.
Your reliable tents will be erected and ready for you when you arrive. You’ll get to know your experienced trekking leaders and the devoted camp employees who will look after you throughout your wild adventure.
You can stretch your legs and explore the rugged terrain around you because this is your opportunity to immerse yourself in the raw, unadulterated beauty of the world around you – to hear the rustling of leaves in the wind, smell the fresh scent of pine, and feel the pulse of adventure coursing through your veins.
This trip takes a party of 16 people ranging in age from 16 to 99. It is wholly guided with a price tag of $5149 per individual. It covers 15 days of accommodation in camping style, meals, and transportation.
Kyrgyzstan & the Tian Shan Mountains
World Expeditions
Venture into the world with World Expeditions, the small-group travel company that has been creating extraordinary adventures since 1975. For over four decades, they have explored every corner of the globe, from the highest peaks to the deepest jungles, and have always upheld their commitment to responsible tourism and community support.
Join a group of intrepid travelers and embark on an authentic journey of cultural discovery, trekking through breathtaking landscapes and immersing yourself in unique and untouched natural beauties. Meet locals along the way and build lasting connections, experiencing the world in a way that few others have.
World Expeditions is backed by some of the most experienced and respected adventurers in the world, who continuously push the boundaries with groundbreaking itineraries and reinvent standards of travel. Explore off the beaten path, uncover hidden gems, and make memories that will last a lifetime with World Expeditions.
On this trip, you will experience the adventure of a lifetime as you visit the majestic Alatoo Square, the State Museum, and the cultural-ethnographic complex ‘Manas Ayily.’ This tour promises to take you on a voyage of discovery and investigation that will leave you breathless and awestruck as you learn about the enchantment of the mountains, the captivating culture, and the people who live here.
You’ll travel to the distant Son-Kul Lake, where you’ll be introduced to Kyrgyz nomadic life and taste the freshest airan (yogurt) and kumis – the national drink made from fermented mare’s milk – all while experiencing the unique way of life that has been handed down from generation to generation.
And tonight, you’ll slumber in a yurt camp in the summer mountain meadows, encircled by the Tian Shan Mountains’ rugged majesty.
The most thrilling aspect of your stay will be learning how to build up a yurt – the traditional Kyrgyz shelter resembling the one you spend the previous night in. The yurt is a sign of nomadic living in the highlands, constructed of a multi-pieced wooden structure and covered with several fleet coverings of sheep fleece.
Finally, the ultimate measure of your daring spirit beckons you. On a particular day, you’ll walk over Telety Peak (3,800m) and down to Karakol Canyon (2500m). Hiking up the mountain is a difficult task, but the limited route with a modest ascent and only two fairly high slopes make it possible. At the summit of the mountain, you will be awarded breathtaking panoramic vistas that will leave you speechless.
This tour takes 16 people ranging in age from 16 to 80. It is completely guided and family-friendly, with a price tag of $2780 per individual. It covers 15 days of accommodation with camping style, meals, and transportation.
Highlights of Kyrgyzstan and Kazakhstan
G Adventures
Indulge yourself in the realm of G Adventures, the trendsetter of small-group travel that takes you to the center of each location. G Adventures has been forging paths to distant regions of the world for over 30 years, offering unique experiences that only a few brave travelers have been able to enjoy.
G Adventures believes in travel with a reason, and their motto is “G for good,” which means they are committed to giving back to the places they tour.
As you set out on your adventure, you can be confident that you’re not just booking a holiday, but a chance to make a difference in the world. With G Adventures, you can visit amazing places, embark on thrilling experiences, and create memorable journeys while traveling with trust and peace of mind.
Explore the breathtaking scenery and friendly people of Kyrgyzstan and Kazakhstan on this exciting nine-day trip that will take you off the main route and submerge you in these countries’ distinct cultures.
Following a substantial meal, you will embark on a city tour of Bishkek before heading to the peaceful Chong-Kemin Valley. Visit the Burana Tower, one of Kyrgyzstan’s oldest buildings, and learn about its interesting past along the way.
You will spend the night in a cozy guest house operated by the friendly Ashuu villagers, and you will be served a delicious traditional supper while admiring the village’s breathtaking scenery.
As the sun rises, you must decide whether to climb the surrounding mountains or investigate the renowned Chong-Kemin gorges. This allows you to investigate the surroundings while following your daring instincts and getting the most out of a solitary excursion; the heroic decision is entirely yours.
Later in the day, you’ll enjoy a scenic journey along the Kalmak-Ashuu mountain pass to the stunning Song Kul Lake. This is where you’ll completely submerge yourself in Kyrgyz culture, sleeping in a traditional yurt and marveling at the breathtaking scenery, feeling energized for the journey ahead.
On another morning, travel to Almaty, the former Kazakh capital, where you’ll gaze at Charyn Canyon, a natural wonder with striking shades of red, orange, and brown that rival the Grand Canyon in beauty. When you arrive in Almaty, take a city tour to see sites like Independence Plaza, Panfilov’s Park, and the eye-catching WWII monument.
This tour takes a group of 20 people ranging in age from 12 to 99. It is wholly guided and family-friendly, with a price tag of $1429 per individual. It covers 9 days of accommodation, meals, and transportation.
On The Shore of The Pearl Ysyk-Kul Lake
Nomads Yurt
Nomads Yurt is an exceptional tour company that will take you on an adventure unlike any other across Central Asia’s captivating landscapes with its immersive excursions that are intended to provide a full experience of the region’s distinct nomadic history, customs, and culture.
You’ll travel through remote regions of the region, accompanied by breathtaking scenery, snow-capped mountains, and expansive terrains that will take your breath away every step of the way, you’ll be submerged in ancient civilizations, exotic scents, and a kaleidoscope of colors that will captivate you.
The mix of spa, health and cosmetic therapies at Nomads Yurt elevates your experience to a whole new level of opulence and rejuvenation. You’ll luxuriate in treatments that will leave you feeling rejuvenated, energized, and completely pampered in the center of Central Asia’s wilderness.
The trip starts with a visit to Cholpon-Ata, a gorgeous resort town encircled by spectacular scenery and breathtaking landscapes.
From there, you’ll travel to the Burana Tower, where you’ll see some of the most ancient treasures and historical wonders as you explore and learn about the tower’s history and the surrounding area, you’ll be taken on a journey to the days of the Silk Road, when traders and travelers roamed the region, giving it the light that it still has today.
The amazing engineering skills of the ancient people who constructed it, as well as the intricate details and craftsmanship that went into its creation, will astound you – a real inspiration.
When you reach in Cholpon-Ata, the trip continues as you tour the Petroglyphs Museum, where you’ll see some of Central Asia’s oldest rock art. The meticulous details of the ancient sculptures, which stretch back thousands of years, will captivate you and take you back in time to the days of the nomadic tribes that once wandered the area.
After an exciting art discovery, you’ll be ready to snowboard down the slopes of Karakol, where you’ll start on a city trip to see some of the most stunning sites, including the Dungan Mosque and the busy Bugu Bazaar. The vivid colors, exotic fragrances, and noises of the bustling market will encircle you here.
This tour takes a group of 14 people from 3 to 90 years old. It is completely guided and family-friendly, with a price tag of $570 per individual. It covers 5 days of accommodation, meals, and transportation.
Essentials of Kyrgyzstan
Flo Tours
Flotours is a travel business that specializes in providing customers with unique and unforgettable travel experiences. They offer a variety of tours and packages that appeal to all kinds of travelers, from action seekers to those looking for a more relaxing getaway.
Their tours transport visitors to famous Central Asian locations such as Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Turkmenistan, and Tajikistan. The business is dedicated to delivering environmentally responsible and sustainable travel experiences that help both local populations and the environment.
Flotours is a travel business that specializes in providing customers with unique and unforgettable travel experiences. They offer a variety of tours and packages that appeal to all kinds of travelers, from action seekers to those looking for a more relaxing getaway.
Their tours take visitors to famous Central Asian locations such as Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Turkmenistan, and Tajikistan. The business is dedicated to delivering environmentally responsible and sustainable travel experiences that help both local populations and the environment.
Set out on an unforgettable road journey to Karakol, the administrative center of the Issyk-Kul area, in your trusted car. The route will take you along the south side of Issyk Kul Lake, the world’s second-largest mountain lake, making your adventurous trip to Kyrgyzstan’s center rewarding.
Keep an eye out for local nomadic yurt structures as you travel, as well as groups of cattle and sheep browsing in the open area filled with green and looking up at the clear skies.
The Skazka (Fairy Tale) Canyon will be your next stop, where you will be amazed by the colorful sandy landforms that provide some of the finest views of Issyk-Kul Lake, ensuring adequate energy surges and enthusiasm to explore. But perhaps the most fascinating element of Kyrgyzstan is its pastoral culture, which has been practiced for as long as time can tell.
You can experience it up close and personal in the different nomadic camps spread throughout the countryside, unlike anywhere else on the planet. The locals will greet you with open arms, asking you to enjoy a meal and learn about their culture.
This trip is for a party of 16 people ranging in age from 12 to 99. It is completely guided and family-friendly, with a price tag of $1695 per individual. It covers 6 days of accommodation, meals, and transportation.
Conclusion
These are the six best trips to explore Kyrgyzstan with ease; they are highly recommended by travelers who have traveled the same route you want to take. There is so much to learn and explore in Kyrgyzstan, but the real pleasures are found in true adventure.
If none of these tours work for you in Kyrgyzstan, please do not worry. There is a wide variety of tour options in the country, and we are confident that there will be something that fits your needs and interests.
Take a look at all the group tours in Kyrgyzstan now, which you can sort by private or group, maximum sizing, budget, dates and much (much more). The team at TourRadar is also always more than happy to answer any questions, provide further information or assist in any way in finding the perfect tour for you.
