Issyk-Kul is the heart of Kyrgyz tourism: a vast, deep-blue lake at about 1,600 m, surrounded by the snowy ridges of the Tian Shan. Thanks to its size and slightly salty water it does not freeze in winter, which is why it is often called the “warm lake”. In summer its beaches attract visitors from all over the region; in the other seasons it is quiet and spectacular.
The north shore, with the resort town of Cholpon-Ata and its open-air museum of ancient petroglyphs, is the more developed side. Karakol at the eastern end is the base for the red rocks of Jeti-Oguz, the Karakol and Altyn-Arashan valleys and, in winter, the ski slopes. The wilder south shore is known for the Skazka (“Fairy Tale”) canyon, small villages, felt-making workshops and eagle hunters around Bokonbaevo.
The drive from Bishkek to the lake takes about three to four hours, and to Karakol about six to seven. Our Issyk-Kul tours range from comfortable multi-day circuits to cultural experiences and private transfers, and can easily be combined with Son-Kul.
Issyk-Kul, Karakol, Kochkor and Son-Kul
Eight days around Issyk-Kul and up to the high-altitude lake Song-Kul – with nights in yurts, an eagle hunter show and genuine nomadic hospitality.
Ala-Archa National Park and the Karakol valleys (Ala-Kul, Altyn-Arashan)
A compact but demanding mountain trip: acclimatisation in Ala-Archa, then the classic trek over the Ala-Kul pass to the Altyn-Arashan hot springs.
Ala-Archa National Park, Chuy region (about 40 km from Bishkek)
A guided day in the mountains just an hour from Bishkek: spruce forests, a glacier river and the Ak-Sai waterfall trail, with lunch in the park.
Chuy valley: Burana Tower near Tokmok and the Konorchek canyons near the Boom Gorge
Silk Road history and red-rock scenery in one day: the 11th-century Burana Tower with its balbal stones, then a hike through the Konorchek canyons.
Issyk-Kul region: Cholpon-Ata, Karakol, Jeti-Oguz and the south shore
A compact loop around Issyk-Kul: petroglyphs in Cholpon-Ata, the wooden cathedral and Dungan mosque of Karakol, the red rocks of Jeti-Oguz and Skazka canyon.
Karakol and the Karakol ski resort, eastern Issyk-Kul
Two days on the slopes of the Karakol ski resort, a soak in hot springs and the winter shores of Issyk-Kul – transport, guide and guesthouse included.
Bokonbaevo area, south shore of Issyk-Kul
A half-day cultural experience on the south shore of Issyk-Kul: meet an eagle hunter and his golden eagle, try traditional felt-making and cook a Kyrgyz meal with a local family.
Manas International Airport – Bishkek
Meet-and-greet at Manas International Airport and a private car to your hotel in Bishkek – or back to the airport for your flight. Available day and night.
Bishkek – north shore of Issyk-Kul – Karakol
A private car with driver from Bishkek (or Manas Airport) to Karakol along the north shore of Issyk-Kul, with short stops for photos and lunch.
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