Blue Pearls of Kyrgyzstan

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

4-day autonomous trekking, with logistics and personal belongings carried by pack horses.

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

You then continue to the Tuz Ashuu pastures.

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

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

Vehicle transfer in the morning.

You will visit the women's cooperative, where traditional felt carpets (sherdaks) are made, showcasing 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 walking. After loading the logistics onto pack horses, you begin the ascent on a trail. You cross the fields, cross a few streams and gradually gain altitude. The landscapes gradually change to give way to clearer vegetation. Along the way, you spot herds coming to graze 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 sharp contrast with the lush meadows of the valley. Settlement at your host's place, under the yurt.

2-day hike in autonomy. 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 a yurt is built, and if you wish you can help them in this activity.

You visit the Skaska canyon, whose name means "fairy tale" in Kyrgyz. Its multicolored rock formations overlook 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 on the shores of Lake Issyk Kul. You take time to visit the Holy Trinity Cathedral, a 19th-century Orthodox church; the Chinese mosque with the appearance of a Mongolian Buddhist temple, built by Dungan Chinese craftsmen.

Vehicle transfer to the trekking starting point, from the city of Karakol to the camp. After your arrival at the camp, you begin hiking towards Lake Ala-Kul (3 522 m). The stage requires some effort, but the route is progressive to the glacial Lake Ala-Kul (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 8am. 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 which a wide panorama opens up over the Terksey-Alatoo range and its peaks.

The descent begins with a fairly steep section, then continues peacefully through Keldike valley, among cattle herds. You then join Arachan valley and settle at the camp, at 2,500 m altitude. Possibility of swimming in the hot springs located nearby. The camp is located near the Altyn Arachan thermal station, made up 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 live in the region more than 140 years ago.

You visit the Ruh-Ordo cultural centre in 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 notable figures from Kirghizistan.

You are visiting the Osh Bazaar, one of the liveliest markets in Kirghizistan. Stalls of dried fruits and spices succeed one another, creating a typical Central Asian atmosphere. You will also find many traditional souvenirs from the country.

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

Breakfast at the hotel.