Blue Pearls of Kyrgyzstan

Meet at 11:30 a.m. in your hotel lobby, where your guide will be waiting for you. You will then head to Ala-Archa National Park, a vast mountainous area located about forty kilometers south of Bishkek, to take a short hiking trip.

4-day self-guided trekking, with horses carrying your logistics and personal equipment.

A new stage brings you closer to your objective. You progress along a rocky path up to the Jalgyz Karagai pass (3 400 m), from where you observe below the landscape reflected in the blue waters of the lake.

You then continue to the Tuz Ashuu pastures.

After breakfast, you walk along the north shore of Son Kul Lake. During the hike, you observe herds of sheep, cattle and especially horses, which roam freely in these vast spaces.

This morning, you are leaving for a hike along the south shore of Son Kul lake, offering panoramic views of the lake. This immense alpine lake constitutes the country's main freshwater reserve. Located in the heart of the Celestial Mountains, it rises to 3,016 m in altitude and has long fueled the imagination of foreign travelers. Its crystalline water changes color throughout the day, shifting from blue to green and sometimes taking on orange hues.

Vehicle transfer in the morning.

You visit the women's cooperative, where traditional felt carpets (sherdaks) are made, demonstrating the region's craft expertise.

In the evening, you attend a traditional Kyrgyz folk show. On the program: a Manas storyteller, traditional music and songs that immerse you in the country's epic and legends.

Early in the morning, you are transferred to the small village of Isakaev, the starting point of your hike. You will meet your local guide, who will accompany you during these two days of trekking. After loading the logistics onto pack horses, you begin your ascent along a trail. You cross the fields, ford a few streams, then gradually gain altitude. The landscapes evolve progressively, giving way to sparser vegetation. Along the way, you spot herds of animals grazing in these jailoos. The last hour requires a bit more effort, as you cross a pass at 3,000 m before reaching your destination.

The waters of Kol Ukok finally reveal themselves, in striking contrast with the green meadows of the valley. You will be accommodated with your host, under the yurt.

2-day hiking in self-guided mode. Logistics and personal belongings are carried on pack horses.

You then head back on the road towards Kochkor. The descent is easier and proceeds at a faster pace.

A family from the village will have the honor of showing us how to build a yurt, and if you wish you can help them with this activity.build a yurt, and if you wish you can help them with this activity.

You visit the Skaska canyon, whose name means "fairy tale" in Kyrgyz. Its multicolored rock formations dominate Lake Issyk-Kul. Resulting from ancient volcanic eruptions, these natural sculptures with varied shapes evoke landscapes worthy of a fairy tale.

Arrival in Karakol, a peaceful small town located near Lake Issyk-Kul. You take time to visit the Holy Trinity Cathedral, a 19th-century Orthodox church, as well as the Chinese Mosque, whose architecture recalls Mongolian Buddhist temples and was built by Dungan craftsmen.

Vehicle transfer to the trek's starting point, from the city of Karakol to the camp. After arriving at camp, you begin hiking towards Lake Ala-Kul (3 522 m). The stage requires some effort, but the route is progressive leading to the Ala-Kul glacial lake (3 600 m), nestled in the heart of the mountains. The turquoise of its waters contrasts with the mineral peaks surrounding it, creating a peaceful atmosphere. Elevation gain: +1 000 m. Approximately 4 to 5 hours of hiking

Departure around 8 a.m. You continue climbing to admire Lake Ala-Kul ("colored lake"), approximately 3 km long and known for its color variations, from turquoise to black depending on the light. You continue to the pass (approximately 1 hour 30 minutes of hiking), from where a wide panorama opens onto the Terksey-Alatoo range and its peaks.

The descent begins with a fairly steep section, then continues gently through Keldike valley, amid herds of livestock. You then reach Arachan valley and settle at the campsite, at 2,500 m altitude. Possibility of swimming in the hot springs located nearby. The campsite is located near the Altyn Arachan thermal station, composed of a few wooden cabins. Meals included. Night under canvas. Elevation gain: +300 / -1,300 m. Between 6 and 7 hours of hiking — 17 km

Installation at your guesthouse for a moment of rest.

For dinner, we are welcomed by our Dungan family, who will offer us a traditional meal, and introduce us to the history of this Muslim people originally from western China, who came to settle in the region over 140 years ago.

You visit the Ruh-Ordo cultural centre of Cholpon-Ata, a place where culture and serenity come together. In a peaceful environment, the complex is dedicated to the four major religions: Islam, Catholicism, Judaism and Buddhism. You also discover spaces dedicated to Greek philosophers as well as several prominent figures from Kirghizistan.

You visit the Osh Bazaar, one of the liveliest markets in Kirghizistan. Stalls of dried fruits and spices follow one another, creating a typical Central Asian atmosphere. You'll also find many traditional souvenirs from the country.

You continue with a stroll through Ala-Too Square, in the heart of Bishkek. A privileged meeting place for Kyrgyz youth, it comes alive every evening when residents come to stroll there. The square has also been the setting for several landmark events in the country's history.

Breakfast at the hotel.