Wonders of Kyrgyzstan

At 11:30 am, you meet your guide in the lobby of your accommodation and head towards Ala Archa National Park. You enjoy a pleasant hike in the heart of the mountains, before returning to the capital at the end of the day.

You stop to visit the ruins of the Burana Minaret, an ancient Jami mosque destroyed in the 13th century during the Mongol invasions. You then climb to the top of the minaret, where you enjoy a clear view over the surrounding countryside. The visit continues with the associated museum, which allows you to better understand the history of the site.

You will set off on horseback to discover the beauty of the surrounding area, departing from your host's home where you will spend the night.

You reach the shores of Lake Issyk-Kul (1,609 m above sea level), considered the world's second largest alpine lake. A true inland sea, it is often called the pearl of Kirghizistan. Surrounded by the Celestial Mountains range, snow-capped peaks exceeding 5,000 m are reflected in its clear waters. From the surrounding mountains, numerous rivers join the lake through contrasting valleys.

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.

North of Grigorievka, you take a mountain trail that climbs up the Chong Ak-Suu valley for approximately 40 minutes. You then settle in with a local family before heading out on a hiking excursion through the wooded valley. The route follows the "great white river", a powerful mountain torrent that accompanies your walk.

In the evening, you join your hosts to share a pleasant moment together.

In the morning, you set off for a walk in the surrounding area and discover the Sut Bulak lake, a peaceful site nestled in the heart of the mountains. You make your way back down to the Semenovka valley and follow the course of the torrent before returning to the main road.

New destination, the hot springs of Orto-Oruktu known for their healing properties, rich in minerals. On the way, we stop at a fish farm, where we will fish our lunch.

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 live in the region more than 140 years ago.

Arrival in Karakol, a small peaceful town located near Issyk-Kul lake. You take time to visit the Holy Trinity Cathedral, a 19th century Orthodox church, as well as the Chinese Mosque, whose architecture is reminiscent of Mongolian Buddhist temples and was built by Dungan craftsmen. You end your discovery with the Przewalsk Museum, dedicated to local history.

You set off on a hiking trip to the Golden Spas of Altyn Arachan, located at 3,000 meters above sea level. The trail follows the Arashan River and the ascent is gradual, at the pace of the valley. Upon arrival, you enjoy a remarkable panorama of the snow-capped peaks of Mount Palakta. Vehicle assistance is provided to facilitate access if necessary.

After this ascent, you take time to relax in the hot springs of Altyn-Arachan, renowned for their healing properties and their peaceful setting.

You continue your tour around the lake by taking the circular road that leads towards the southern shore. Wilder than the northern coast, this region invites you to discover natural sites with striking landscapes, which you explore as you drive along the road.

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

In the late afternoon, you settle in with your hosts of the day in Bokonbayevo, for a stop marked by hospitality and sharing.

Upon arrival at your host's place in Bokonbayevo, you will attend an Eagle hunting demonstration. The Kyrgyz eagle hunter, on horseback, presents the complicity that unites him with his eagle and shows his hunting technique on small prey such as rabbits.

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

In the mid-afternoon, you will head to the salt lake, a small lake with high salinity neighboring its big brother Lac Issyk-Koul where you can swim before diving into the fresh and warm waters of Issyk-Kul.

You visit the women's cooperative, where traditional felt carpets (sherdaks) are made, showcasing the region's traditional craftsmanship.

Located 25 km from Kochkor, you visit the Chong Tuz salt mines, once exploited during the Soviet period. Today you walk through its galleries which serve as a sanatorium, and discover an unusual site that will fascinate many.

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.

Travel back in time with a visit to the ancient Tach Rabat Caravanserai. Located on the route to Khasgar, the Tach Rabat caravanserai, the Stone Hotel, is probably the best-preserved site on the Silk Road, and you will be able to feel its original atmosphere here. Dating from the 15th century, it featured many rooms used to shelter merchants.

Day 11

You take advantage of this day to relax and observe the lifestyle of the family hosting you. You attend the preparation of dairy products, the gathering of herds, or even the milking of cows, to better understand the organization of pastoral life.

If you wish, you can leave after lunch for a short Horse riding, an opportunity to ride along the pastures and appreciate the tranquility of the landscapes.

After a moment of relaxation by the lake, and time to appreciate the beauty of the landscape, you take the road towards the small village of Kyzyl-Oi. Located at 1,800 meters altitude, it owes its name to the surrounding mountains with red hues. The road, sometimes bumpy, gradually leads you towards an entirely different scenery.

In the afternoon, you leave for a ride in the surroundings to discover the landscapes that surround the village.

You are visiting the Osh Bazaar, considered one of the most vibrant markets in Kyrgyzstan. As you walk through the aisles, stalls of dried fruits and colorful spices fill the atmosphere and evoke the flavors of Central Asia. You will also find a wide selection of traditional souvenirs.

You are strolling through Ala-Too Square, in the heart of Bishkek. A favorite meeting place for Kyrgyz youth, it comes alive each evening with passersby who come to wander. This square has also been the scene of several significant events in the country's history.

Dive into the heart of Kyrgyzstan's history with a visit to the National History Museum. Here you discover a rich past steeped in tradition: the first floor is dedicated to centuries-old Kyrgyz culture, while the second recounts the main events of the Soviet period.

Breakfast at the hotel.