Kyrgyzstan and Kazakhstan Summer Adventure

Upon early arrival in Bishkek, check in to your hotel for breakfast and some free time. In the afternoon, embark on a drive to the stunning Chong Kemin Valley, a protected reserve boasting diverse flora and fauna amidst an alpine landscape. En route, visit the 10th-century Burana Tower and its archaeological museum. Check in at a family-run guesthouse in Tarsuu village, and before dinner, take a leisurely stroll to gain insights into rural Kyrgyz life. (B, D)

This morning, partake in a half-day warm-up hike to Kalmak-Ashuu Gorge with a mountain picnic lunch. In the late afternoon, travel to Kochkor in the Naryn region, a crossroad of the Great Silk Road. Stay overnight and have dinner at a homestay. (B, L, D)

After breakfast, your driver takes you to the Kyzart Pass, the trek's starting point between Kochkor and the Jumgal region. The trail ascends, offering panoramic views from the 3061-metre Chaar Archa Pass. Descend briefly into a narrow valley, then climb to the Kyzyl Bel Pass at 3014 metres. Rest and overnight at a shepherd's yurt. (B, L, D)

14.5km, 4-6 hours of trekking, altitude: 2,550m

Embark on a morning climb to the 3325-metre Jalgyz Karagai Pass, offering breathtaking views of Song-Kul Lake and the surrounding mountains. The route continues southwest, descending from the pass into Jaman Echki Valley. (B, L, D)

19.5km, 5-6 hours of trekking, altitude: 3,016m

Explore Song-Kul, a stunning alpine lake encircled by Central Tien-Shan ridges, devoid of trees due to high altitude. Learn about nomadic life, visiting local shepherd families engaged in household tasks, from milking mares to crafting dairy products. Spend the day observing daily routines and enjoy a leisurely walking tour in the nearby mountains. (B, L, D)

In the morning, travel to the Kok-Kiya valley near the China border, enjoying stunning views of the At-Bashi Range and Eki-Naryn Canyon along the way. (B, L, D)

Embark on a half-day trek to Kel-Suu Lake in the Kok-Kya valley, situated at 3,500 metres above sea level. The lake, known for occasional disappearances into underground caves, is surrounded by towering cliffs with numerous caves and alcoves. The trek covers 16 kilometres over six hours or 3-4 hours on horseback, concluding in Kochkor before evening. (B, L, D)

Travel to Karakol along the southern shore of Issyk-Kul Lake. Enjoy lunch at a local family's residence in Bokonbaevo village, with the opportunity for a swim in the lake. Decide on the spot whether to embark on a 2-3 hour hike at either Skazka Canyon or Barskoon Gorge. (B, L, D)

After breakfast, travel to Karakol Gorge and start a hike to Sirota from the bridge. Enjoy a picnic lunch along the way. Continue the hike to Sirota Hut, where dinner and overnight accommodations in a tented camp will be provided. (B, L, D)

Hike to Ala-Kul Lake, enjoy a lakeside picnic with breathtaking views, and descend to Altyn Arashan Valley. The valley, at 3,000 metres, is a pristine nomadic and wildlife habitat, showcasing Kyrgyzstan's beauty with the snow-capped Palatka Summit at 4,260 metres. Explore natural hot springs with healing properties, offering the option for a relaxing dip. (B, L, D)

Descend to the Karakol River after breakfast and walk along the river through the Karakol Gorge. Conclude the trek and drive to Karakol using a 4x4 Russian truck (UAZ). Enjoy the evening at leisure. (B, L)

Begin your day with an early breakfast and drive to the Kyrgyz-Kazakh border. Cross into Kazakhstan, meet your guide, and transfer to Saty village for a two-night stay in a family-owned guesthouse. After lunch, embark on a 2-3 hour hike to Kaindy Lake, known for its submerged trees formed by an earthquake-triggered landslide. Return to the guesthouse for dinner and an overnight stay. (B, L, D)

After breakfast, head to Kolsai Lakes, known as the "Pearls of the Northern Tien-Shan." The largest lake is easily accessible, while the highest lake, surrounded by fir-wood and alpine meadows, requires some walking. The vertical drop between the lakes is about 700 meters. Explore the area, home to rainbow trout and wildlife like Marals, mountain goats, wolves, and bears. Return to the guesthouse before evening for an overnight stay. (B, L, D)

After breakfast, head to Charyn Canyon. Marvel at the expansive panorama and stroll through the intricate maze of Castles Valley at the canyon's bottom. The canyon, a global natural marvel, features steep slopes with fanciful towers made of sedimentary rocks. Explore the 2 km "Valley of Castles" and reach a refreshing oasis on the Charyn River. Afterwards, capture another panoramic view from an observation point before heading back. Conclude the exploration and journey to Almaty. (B)

In the afternoon, explore Independence Square and the National Museum of Kazakhstan (closed on Tuesdays). Visit the vibrant Green Bazaar, Panfilov Park with the Zenkov Cathedral and the Memorial of Glory and Eternal Flame. Stroll along Arbat and Panfilov streets, known for local artists, and experience the clean and artistically adorned metro. Conclude the day at Kok Tobe Hill, home to a 372-meter-tall TV Tower, featuring a panoramic viewing deck, souvenir shops, and a bronze monument dedicated to the Beatles.(B)

Transfer to the airport for departure. (B)