From CAD $2,079
Guarantee
Small Group
Average
Rating
(21 reviews)
Experience Overview
Discover a part of the world that's getting noticed for its beautiful landscapes and its warm people. This nine-day tour takes you off the beaten path and into the cultures of Kyrgyzstan and Kazakhstan. Begin in Bishkek enjoying city time with optional activities that get you closer to the colourful and artsy culture here. Spend two nights in a traditional yurt and get to know the welcoming families of the nomadic Kyrgyz culture. Finish in Almaty but not before driving through the stunning Charyn Canyon.
Highlights
- Learn about the diverse cultures of Central Asia
- Soak in the breathtaking mountain scenery
- Connect with the locals during yurt and village guesthouse stays
- Wander the Soviet streets of Bishkek
- Take in the beauty of Song Kul Lake and Kaindy Lake
- Trek to the sunken forest
- Learn how yurts are built.
Trip Details
Product Code: 1737
Tour Type: Small Group
Accommodation: Budget
Transport: Private van, walking.
Guide Language: English
Travel Styles:
Classic
Supplier Code: AYKK
Starts: Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan
Finishes: Almaty, Kazakhstan
Duration: 9 days
Departures: Guaranteed
Physical rating:
Average
Includes
Activities
- Your G for Good Moment: Yurt Building Demonstration, Barskoon Your Welcome Moment: Welcome Moment - Meet Your CEO and Group, Bishkek Your Local Living Moment: Overnight in a Yurt, Song Köl Your Local Living Moment: Tamga Village Stay, Tamga
- Bishkek City Tour
- Burana Tower
- Home-cooked traditional dinner
- Overnight in a Yurt
- Free time in Chong-Kemin
- Song Kul Lake
- Lunch with Local Family in Kochkor
- Skazka "Fairytale" Canyon
- Tamga Village Stay
- Yurt Building Demonstration
- Jety Oguz & the Seven Bulls
- Karakol City Tour
- Russian Orthodox Cathedral
- Dungan mosque
- Saty Village Stay
- 4x4 ride to Kaindy Lake
- Charyn Canyon
- Almaty City Tour
- Independence Square, Zenkov Cathedral, Panfilov's Park
- WWII memorial
- Free time in Almaty
Accommodation
- Hotels (3 nts), village guesthouse (3 nts), yurt (1 nt, multishare up to 4 people per yurt), village homestay (1 nt)
- 8 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 5 dinners
Transport
- Private van, walking.
Group Leader
- CEO (Chief Experience Officer) throughout.
Price
Price per person: (Double Occupancy) CAD $2079 (CAD $231 /day)
Itinerary
Day 1: Bishkek
Arrive at any time.
Welcome to Kyrgyzstan's artsy capital and cultural hub, situated at the base of the Tian Shan mountain range. There are no planned activities until the evening welcome meeting, so get out there and explore!
Exclusive inclusions: Activity - Your opportunity to meet your CEO and fellow travellers, and learn more about your tour. Opt to join the group for a local meal afterwards. Don't forget to see the notice in the lobby (or ask reception) for the official time and place to meet up with the group.Accommodation - Grand Hotel Bishkek
Day 2: Bishkek/Chon Kemin
After breakfast, embark on a city tour of Bishkek before travelling to the serenity of Chong-Kemin Valley. Along the way, stop at one of Kyrgyzstan's oldest sights, the Burana Tower and learn about this ancient structure, rare in nomadic culture. Tonight, stay in a cozy guest house run by Karal Dobo Villagers. Soak in the stunning scenery while exploring the village and savour a home-cooked traditional dinner.
Meals included: Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner
Exclusive inclusions: Activity - Check out some of the main highlights of this Soviet-esque capital city. Learn about the history of the city and daily life.Transport - Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.Activity - Visit the historical site of Burana and climb the stairs to check out the view from the top. A large minaret, along with some grave markers and remnants of a castle and mausoleums, are all that remain of the 9th century city of Balasagun.Accommodation - Chon Kemin Guesthouse
Day 3: Chong-Kemin/Song Kul
In the morning, opt for a hike to the nearby mountains or explore the famous gorges of Chong-Kemin. In the afternoon, enjoy the scenic drive along the Kalmak-Ashuu mountain pass to Song Kul Lake. Immerse yourself in Kyrgyz culture with an overnight stay in a traditional yurt. Experience daily nomadic life and wander the breathtaking landscape. With an altitude of 3,016 meters above sea level, it's possible to experience four seasons in one day! Indulge in delicious home-cooked cuisine for dinner, then get cozy in the yurt around the stove.
Meals included: Breakfast,Dinner
Exclusive inclusions: Transport - Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.Activity - Enjoy overnighting in a traditional felt yurt. Get comfortable in this multi-share round tent that fit up to 4 people and cozy up by the stove. Experience daily life of the nomads and sample some of their delicious cuisine.
Day 4: Song Kul/Tamga
Spend the morning soaking in all the beauty of Song Kul Lake before departing for Kochkor to enjoy lunch together with a local family. After lunch, head to the breathtaking Skazka Canyon, also known as Fairytale Canyon. Walk through the striking rock formations and take some beautiful photos. Afterward, head to Tamga village in the clutches of the Terskey Ala-Too and celestial Issyk-Kol' Lake, where you'll spend the night at a village guesthouse and get to know the local community members.
Tamga village was once famous for its Soviet-era military sanatorium, where Soviet cosmonauts relaxed and recovered after space flights.
Meals included: Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner
Exclusive inclusions: Transport - Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle. Stop halfway in Kochkor village for a Kyrgyz felt-making workshop.Activity - Enjoy an intimate lunch with local family in Kochkor Village.Activity - On the Southern Shore of Lake Issyk Kul, visit the breathtaking Skazka Canyon, also known as the Fairytale Canyon. It's nickname speaks for itself, with natural rock formations that tower like princess castles in faraway lands.Activity - Spend the night at a guesthouse in Tamga Village situated along Issyk Kul Lake. Surrounded by mountains and often used as a base for trekking, this village offers a touching glimpse into local Kyrgyz life.Accommodation - Anyutaika Guesthouse
Day 5: Tamga/Karakol
This morning we head to Ak-Orgo Workshop Centre, a G for Good supported organization, to observe how traditional yurts are built and learn about the importance of this Kyrgyz craft. Continue the drive to Jety Oguz, where we stop to visit the beautiful Seven Bulls rock formations, enjoy a picnic lunch with a stunning view and hike to the Jety Oguz viewpoint. Finish the drive to Kyrgyzstan's 4th largest city - Karakol and enjoy a city tour upon arrival, visiting notable sites like the Russian Holy Trinity Orthodox Church and the pagoda-style Dungan Mosque, built by Chinese Muslims in the early 20th Century.
Meals included: Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner
Exclusive inclusions: Activity - Visit the Ak-Orgo workshop, a G Adventures-supported project working to preserve Kyrgyz traditions and create employment opportunities in Barskoon. Observe how traditional yurts are built.Activity - Visit the stunning Seven Bulls in the Jety Oguz mountain area. Watch as the bright red sandstone seemingly changes color hues as the sun reflects off the unique rock formations. We'll have a picturesque picnic lunch in the valley that is blanketed in colorful flowers in the spring. Then hike to the Jety Oguz view point on a 1.5 hour roundtrip moderate hike.Transport - Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle. Stop first in Barskoon village before continuing on to Karakol.Activity - Jump on a mini-bus and see what Karakol has to offer. Stop by the Russian Orthodox Cathedral to admire the unique architecture. This beautiful wooden church was built in 1895, after the old structure was destroyed by an earthquake, and is still used for services on Sundays. Next, visit the colourful Dungan Mosque originally built in 1910 that almost resembles a Buddhist temple. This is the only mosque in the area and definitely worth checking out.Accommodation - Caravan Hotel Karakol
Day 6: Karakol/Saty Village
Cross the border into Kazakhstan on the journey to Saty Village, part of the Kolsay Lakes National Park. On arrival, jump in a 4x4 vehicle for the ride to Kaindy Lake, then embark on a trek to explore the sunken forest. Soak in the bright hues and marvel at the eerie sight of submerged trees. Spend the night in a homestay and indulge in traditional Kazakh meals for a true Kazakh experience.
Meals included: Breakfast,Dinner
Exclusive inclusions: Transport - Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.Activity - Ready for a little more ink in your passport? Grab your bags and get ready to check another country off your bucket list.Activity - Be immersed in Kazakh culture during a homestay near the Kolsay Lakes National Park. Eat a traditional dinner and marvel at the mountain range and forests surrounding the village.Accommodation - Saty Village Guesthouse
Day 7: Saty Village/Almaty
Depart early this morning for Almaty, the former Kazakh capital, stopping along the way to marvel at Charyn Canyon. Boasting stunning shades of red, orange, and brown, the Charyn Canyon is a natural wonder comparable in beauty to the Grand Canyon. On arrival in Almaty, join your CEO for an orientation walk around your hotel.
Meals included: Breakfast
Exclusive inclusions: Transport - Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.Activity - Enjoy the views of the beautiful Charyn Canyon. Breathe the fresh air and snap a few photos of this stunning landscape.Transport - Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.Accommodation - Otrar Hotel
Day 8: Almaty
Explore the amazing city of Almaty on a city tour, visiting sights such as Independence Square, Zenkov Cathedral, Panfilov's Park, and the striking WWII memorial. Enjoy a free afternoon to continue the adventure through Almaty. Opt to climb Green Hill for panoramic views, visit the local markets, or sip coffee in one of the plentiful cafés.
Meals included: Breakfast
Exclusive inclusions: Free_time - Enjoy the afternoon free to explore Almaty.Activity - Get to know Almaty on a city tour, visiting the most stunning sights. Stop by the colourful Ascension Cathedral, constructed entirely of wood without the use of any nails. It survived an earthquake in 1911 and continues to stand today. Walk through Panfilov's Park and the historical part of the city. Visit the new part of Almaty known as Independence Square, and stop by the WWII Memorial.Accommodation - Otrar Hotel
Day 9: Almaty
Depart at any time.
Meals included: Breakfast
Exclusive inclusions: Activity - Not ready to leave? Your CEO can help with travel arrangements to extend your adventure.
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Tour Operator
G Adventures
G Adventures, founded in 1990 by Bruce Poon Tip, is a global adventure travel company specializing in small-group tours that emphasize authentic, sustainable, and culturally immersive experiences. Originally launched as GAP Adventures (“Great Adventure People”), the company pioneered the concept of community-driven travel by offering affordable trips that connect travelers with local communities while minimizing environmental impact. Today, G Adventures operates in more than 100 countries, offering a wide range of itineraries across themes such as active adventures, wildlife, wellness, family, and National Geographic–partnered tours, while maintaining a strong commitment to responsible tourism and social enterprise through its Planeterra Foundation.
In Business Since 1990
Reviews
Yiyun S., - Traveled, October 2023
Beautify scenary and local hospitality
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 12/11/2023
Christopher K., - Traveled, September 2023
I'm happy with the G Adv style, but I expect several of our friends would find it too hectic.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 11/29/2023
Rachel H., - Traveled, September 2023
Excellent itinerary, organisation and very smooth booking process.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 11/16/2023
Russel M., - Traveled, September 2023
Fun trip visiting places which would be difficult to do if travelling independently
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 10/29/2023
Laura E., - Traveled, August 2023
We had a magnificent time in the Stans. Because it would be difficult for us to navigate without support, we chose G Adventures (we have not been with G before) and were extremely impressed with the tour we had with Bek. He was knowledgeable, friendly, flexible and supportive
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 09/30/2023
Helen B., - Traveled, August 2023
Very safe and professional tours Good range of departure dates and destinations
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 10/25/2023
Mollika T., - Traveled, September 2023
Fantastic value! The trip was thoroughly organized from booking to the end of the trip. Customer service and the app are excellent
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 10/25/2023
Marcus N., - Traveled, September 2023
I really didn't know what to expect of Kyrgyzstan, but it was a truly memorable trip, and I think a lot of that was down to our guide Leila.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 10/16/2023
Collected by G Adventures Helen B., - Traveled, August 2023
Very safe and professional tours Good range of departure dates and destinations
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 10/05/2023
Divya C., - Traveled, August 2023
This trip was put together really well, it felt like a proper adventure and I enjoyed the travel to remote locations and stays in the Yurt and village guest houses. I felt we went to some remote and challenging places, that are off the beaten track
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 09/30/2023
Julie Ann Christine K., - Traveled, August 2023
I had so much fun. Great mix of experiences and the pace was good
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 10/03/2023
Jack S., - Traveled, August 2023
I recommend G Adventures as for this style of trip, in a country which is not known by many from the west, it really helps having a guide like Ilyas who is a fluent English speaking local, alongside a detailed itinerary which contains all the major attractions
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 10/01/2023
Jade G., - Traveled, August 2023
Very good guides( good english, well prepared and organized), interesting countries to travel
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 10/15/2023
Yasmin F., - Traveled, August 2023
It was my 4rd trip with G and so far I only had good experiences
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 09/29/2023
Kristine Y., - Traveled, August 2023
Good value, interesting itineraries and attracts like-minded people
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 10/07/2023
Marie M., - Traveled, July 2023
Brilliant way to visits countries that otherwise you may not go but required confidence to take part
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 09/29/2023
Kate W., - Traveled, July 2023
Another amazing G trip - lovely oriole, spectacular scenery and Bec was amazing
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 09/14/2023
Sophie V., - Traveled, July 2023
G Adventures always delivers ln what it promises. It also solves problems in a fast and efficient way if problems arise. And you know you will find people interested in the same things as you are.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 08/26/2023
LinnŽa F., - Traveled, July 2023
This kind of travel is not for everyone, but for those looking for an organized group tour with a lot of places to see, I think G Adventures offers a good deal.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 10/02/2023
Gabrielle R., - Traveled, July 2023
Leila is a magnificent guide. She is knowledgeable, honest, genuine, funny, and just a really good person. The itinerary in Kyrgyzstan is fantastic. As a nature and mountain lover, this is exactly what I wanted to experience and so much more.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 09/04/2023
Ashleigh D., - Traveled, July 2023
I love that G Adventures use adventure style travel and try to create authentic experiences in the places explored. This is my 3rd G Adventures and it always seems as though their is a commitment to preserving the environment and ensuring a safe and positive experience. This style of travel is excellent for solo travellers and I feel you make many friends
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 08/08/2023
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