Kyzyl-Oi, meaning "red basin", is a charming village situated on the ancient Silk Road at 1800 metres elevation. Tucked into the valley of the Kokomeren River, the village reveals itself beyond impressive ochre-coloured mountains. Located tens of kilometres from other settlements, along the trail from Suusamyr Valley to Kochkor, Kyzyl-Oi offers a true mountain retreat far from the beaten path. If you enjoy hiking or horseback riding off the main trails, make a stop in the region to explore the rugged terrain of the surrounding area.

History

Kyzyl-Oi is one of the rare villages that existed on the ancient Silk Road in Kyrgyzstan during the 1900s. In that era, before the Soviet period, nomadic culture prevailed, which explained the scarcity of settlements of this kind. Kyzyl-Oi was then an important waypoint for merchants travelling this route towards China.

Discovering the Village

Kyzyl-Oi means "red basin", named after the red mountains that surround it. Its unique landscape and peaceful atmosphere make Kyzyl-Oi a perfect stopover during a journey between Kochkor and Suusamyr Valley.

In the village, comprising only a dozen or so houses, peace reigns. Everyone here knows each other and will be delighted to welcome you and help you organise your explorations in the surrounding valleys.

Nestled beneath a curtain of peaks and sharp ridges, the small village offers numerous hiking possibilities. On foot or horseback, the surroundings lend themselves readily to exploration. Let yourself be soothed by birdsong and the murmur of streams, then follow the Kokomeren River to enjoy extraordinary views. Although the landscape appears somewhat arid, it is quite easy to find pockets of verdure where you can rest in the shade of trees. Around the next hillside, you might stumble upon a pretty waterfall, just the thing to cool off. These days, closest to nature, can only delight you and allow you to recharge.

Among the most popular horseback trekking routes is the one between Char Valley and Kumbel Pass to Balik Köl. You should allow approximately six hours of riding.

Climate

Generally, it is very cold in Kyzyl-Oi, especially in winter as in all high-altitude villages. Be sure to wrap up warmly and bring waterproof clothing—you're never safe from a sudden downpour. Nevertheless, the cold doesn't stop the sun from beating down strong, so don't forget sunscreen, a hat or cap either.

Kyzyl-Oi is situated on the route between Suusamyr Valley and Kochkor. It is generally reached by vehicle. The village is an ideal stopover to rest in an exceptional natural setting.

Here, drivers can take you to nearby villages or to the start of certain treks. The region is generally explored on foot or horseback.

What to Do and See in Kyzyl-Oi?

• Enjoy the warmth and hospitality of the local population
• Explore the surroundings on foot or horseback through canyons and mountains to discover the region's magnificent landscapes.
• Recharge near the Kokomeren River