Kazakhstan - Kyrgyzstan Group Tour
8 days Kazakhstan - Kyrgyzstan group tour
TOUR DETAILS
-
Period
May - October -
Tour length
8 days / 7 nights -
Tour Starts/ Ends
Almaty / Bishkek -
Price of the tour
1575 USD
KAZAKHSTAN & KYRGYZSTAN TOUR HIGHLIGHTS
Step off the beaten path and uncover the natural and cultural wonders of Central Asia on this unforgettable journey through Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan. From the modern pulse of Almaty to the untouched serenity of Kyrgyz mountain valleys, this adventure weaves together breathtaking landscapes and timeless traditions.
Marvel at the surreal beauty of Charyn Canyon, the crystal waters of Kolsay and Kaindy Lakes, and the snow-dusted peaks of the Tian Shan Mountains. In Karakol, discover wooden cathedrals and Dungan heritage; in Bokonbaevo, witness the ancient art of eagle hunting. Stay in cozy guesthouses and traditional yurts, savor homemade meals, and experience the warmth of nomadic hospitality.
A journey of contrasts and connections, this trip reveals the heart of Central Asia, where emerald lakes, red canyons, and open skies tell stories as old as the Silk Road itself.
Itinerary: Almaty – Charyn Canyon – Kolsay Lakes – Kaindy – Karakol – Djety-Oguz gorge – Skazka – Bokonbaevo village – Kochkor – Bishkek
TOUR HIGHLIGHTS
Kazakhstan - Uzbekistan Tour Itinerary
Day 1. Almaty, arrival
We arrive in Almaty early in the morning and transfer to the hotel for rest after the flight. Later we begin a full-day discovery of Kazakhstan’s largest city, set against the backdrop of the snowy Tien Shan mountains. Our first stop is the colorful Green Bazaar, followed by a stroll through Panfilov Park, home to the striking wooden Zenkov Cathedral and the moving Memorial of Glory and Eternal Flame.
Next, we ride up to Kok Tobe Hill, crowned by the city’s TV tower, where sweeping views over Almaty open before us. We descend by the famous cableway and continue into the mountains. At Medeo, the world’s highest skating rink, we pause before ascending by cable car to Shymbulak Ski Resort, reaching 3,200 meters for breathtaking alpine panoramas. Return to the hotel in the evening. Overnight in Almaty.
breakfast
Almaty - Charyn Canyon - Kolsay Lakes by road, 440 km
After breakfast, we set out eastward toward one of Kazakhstan’s most breathtaking natural wonders Charyn canyon . Often called the “little brother” of the Grand Canyon, this spectacular gorge stretches for more than 150 km. Within two hours, we reach the famous Valley of Castles, where centuries of wind and rain have sculpted the sandstone cliffs into shapes resembling ancient fortresses. We’ll walk down into the canyon for about 40 minutes until we reach the Charyn River, surrounded by vivid red and orange walls — a perfect spot for photos and quiet admiration.
Lunch will be served at a cozy café near the canyon, offering a chance to relax before we continue our journey to the Kolsay lakes — a pristine mountain paradise nestled in the northern Tien Shan range. On arrival in the late afternoon, you’ll be greeted by fresh mountain air and serene alpine scenery. Check into a welcoming guesthouse, enjoy a home-style dinner, and rest after a day filled with adventure and stunning landscapes.
breakfast, lunch, dinner
Day 3 Kolsay Lakes - Kaindy - "Kegen" land border - Karakol by road, 250 km
After breakfast, we check out and set off to Kaindy lake, a mystical place formed after a powerful earthquake in 1911. A landslide created a natural dam, flooding a spruce forest whose ghostly trunks still rise from the turquoise water. This hauntingly beautiful “sunken forest” must be seen to be believed.
We walk from the slope down to the lake for breathtaking views, or, alternatively, ride on horseback (optional, arranged by locals). On the way back, we stop at a village home for a hearty, homemade lunch. In the afternoon we continue to the Kegen border. After crossing into Kyrgyzstan and completing formalities, we drive to Karakol, a charming town at the foot of the Tien Shan mountains. Overnight at the hotel.
breakfast, lunch
Day 4. Karakol & Jety-Oguz Gorge
This morning we discover Karakol’s cultural gems. We start at the colorful Dungan Mosque, built entirely of wood without a single nail, then step into the wooden Russian Orthodox Cathedral of the Holy Trinity. Our final stop is the museum of Nikolay Przhevalsky, the Russian explorer who mapped much of Central Asia.
Later we drive into the mountains to the famous Jety-Oguz Gorge (“Seven Bulls”), where dramatic red cliffs rise above the lush spruce forests. Here we admire the striking rock formations known as the “Seven Bulls” and the “Broken Heart.” The vivid contrast of red sandstone and dark green woods makes this one of the most beautiful places in Kyrgyzstan. Return to Karakol for hotel check-in and rest.
breakfast
Day 5. Karakol - Skazka canyon - Bokonbaevo village - Kochkor village by road, 250 km
After breakfast, we follow the southern shore of Lake Issyk-Kul toward the Skazka (“Fairytale”) Canyon. Shaped by wind and water over millions of years, the red and yellow clay has been sculpted into towers, castles, and ridges—some resembling the Great Wall of China. A short walk here feels like stepping into another world.
Continuing to Bokonbaevo village, we meet local eagle hunters and watch a traditional falconry demonstration, an ancient practice that has been passed down for generations. Lunch with a hunter’s family offers a taste of rural hospitality.
In the evening, we reach Kochkor, a village famous for its felt handicrafts and warm welcomes. Dinner and overnight in Kochkor.
breakfast, lunch, dinner
Day 6. Kochkor - Bishkek by road, 200 km
This morning we immerse ourselves in Kyrgyz traditions with a felt-making master class in Kochkor. Skilled artisans demonstrate how colorful shyrdaks (felt carpets) are crafted, and we join in to learn about the symbolism behind their intricate designs.
Afterward, we return to Bishkek, arriving in the afternoon. The rest of the day is free: a perfect chance to explore the lively Osh Bazaar, where stalls overflow with fragrant spices, dried fruits, textiles, and handicrafts. It’s the ideal place to experience the rhythm of local life and perhaps pick up some souvenirs. Overnight in Bishkek.
breakfast
Day 7 Bishkek
After breakfast we set off on a guided city tour of Bishkek. We’ll begin with the Monument to Manas, the legendary hero of Kyrgyz epics, then head to Ala-Too Square to watch the solemn Changing of the Guard. At the State Historical Museum we trace the story of Kyrgyzstan, while statues of Kurmanjan-Datka and Lenin remind us of the country’s contrasting past. A walk through leafy Oak Park, dotted with sculptures and the Fine Arts Gallery, offers a pleasant pause. Our tour ends at Victory Square, a moving memorial to World War II.
Free afternoon. Overnight in Bishkek.
breakfast
Day 8 Bishkek, departure
Breakfast at the hotel and check-out before 12:00. Transfer to the international airport for your onward flight — carrying with you warm memories and vivid impressions of your unforgettable journey through Central Asia.
breakfast
Tour Information
Tour price includes:
- Accommodation at the hotels listed below, or at similar properties of the same category, in double/twin rooms with breakfast. Early check-in on Day 1 in Almaty is included; check-in at other hotels is at 14:00, check-out at 12:00.
- Accommodation at the guest house in Kolsay (twin accommodation).
- Meals – daily breakfasts, 3 lunches, and 2 dinners as per the program.
- Entrance fees to the monuments and museums mentioned in the itinerary.
- Falconry demonstration and felt-making master class in Kyrgyzstan.
- Services of English-speaking local guides for sightseeing.
- Comfortable air-conditioned transportation throughout the tour, including all airport–hotel–airport transfers.
* Tickets for high-speed trains are subject to availability and cannot be guaranteed in advance.
Tour price does not include:
- International flight tickets.
- Meals not mentioned above.
- Medical expenses and travel insurance.
- Porterage at hotels, railway stations, and airports.
- Tips for guides and drivers.
Cost of the tour is 1575 USD upon twin sharing basis
Supplement for single accommodation is 270 USD
A tailor-made version of this trip is also available on request
We offer a private tour. Price Per Person in USD.
| Pax | 3★ Hotels (USD) | 4★ Hotels (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | 5203 | 5473 |
| 2-3 | 2869 | 3004 |
| 4-5 | 1850 | 1950 |
| 6-7 | 1494 | 1602 |
| 8-9 | 1282 | 1403 |
| 10-11 | 1164 | 1277 |
Supplement for single accommodation +220 USD / +287 USD
Accommodation
| City | Hotels 3★ |
|---|---|
| Almaty | Grand Sapphire 3★ or similar |
| Kolsay Lakes | Alban / Taushelek Guesthouse |
| Karakol | Green Yard 3★ or similar |
| Kochkor | Nomad Lodge Hotel / Bagysh Hotel |
| Bishkek | Bishkek Boutique 3★ or similar |
Transportation (by group size)
| Group Size | Vehicle |
|---|---|
| 1–2 travelers | Chevrolet Lacetti or similar |
| 4 travelers | Hyundai Starex minivan (6 seats) |
| 6–8 travelers | King Long minivan (10 seats) or similar |
| 9–14 travelers | Eurise minivan (18 seats) or similar |
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If you would like to customize your tour please don’t hesitate to contact us. We are happy to organize a custom tour or to provide a modified itinerary based on one of the tours provided by the tour operators.
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Tour updated: 24.10.2025