Central Asia's north doesn't do subtle. Eight days between Kyrgyzstan and Kazakhstan means alpine valleys, nomadic yurt stays, ancient towers, and canyon rims that'll make your jaw do the work. Bishkek's buzzing streets kick things off, Charyn Canyon's dramatic gorges close them out, and somewhere in between you'll learn to build a yurt. Not bad for a week.
Travel Style
Classic
Service Level
Standard
Physical Grading
2 - Light
What's Included
Your G for Good Moment: Ak-Orgo Visit and Yurt Building Experience, Barskoon
Your Welcome Moment: Welcome Moment - Meet Your CEO and Group, Bishkek. Guided tour of Bishkek. Free time in Bishkek. Included traditional dinner. Lunch in yurt camp. Hands-on Kyrgyz traditional dish preparation. Lunch at Ak Orgoo. Free time in Karakol. Visit to Charyn Canyon. Free time in Almaty. Visit Osh Bazaar. Visit Victory Square & WWII Memorial. Visit Burana Tower. Guided hike in Kek Sai. Visit to Skazka Canyon. Visit to Barksoon Village with yurt building experience. Overnight in a yurt. Visit Panfilov Park & Zenkov Cathedral. Visit Green Bazaar. All transport between destinations and to/from included activities.
What are the main highlights of this trip?
Hit Bishkek's highlights from Ala-Too Square to the stalls of Osh Bazaar, Sleep in a mountain yurt camp in the shadow of the ancient Burana Tower, Hike panoramic valleys, try Kyrgyz cooking, and yes — build an actual yurt, Gawp at Fairytale Canyon's red rocks before crossing into Kazakhstan, End on a high with Charyn Canyon's dramatic gorges and the buzz of Almaty
How large will the group be?
Max 16, avg 14
What meals are included in this trip?
7 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 2 dinners
What are the modes of transportation on my trip?
Private vehicle, walking.
Where will we stay during the trip?
Hotels/guesthouses (5 nts), yurts (2 nts). Please note that there will be shared bathroom facilities when staying in the yurts.
Itinerary
Bishkek
Welcome to Bishkek, the vibrant gateway to Kyrgyzstan’s mountains and nomadic culture! Arrive anytime and take a moment to settle in, refresh, and soak up the city’s unique energy. Stroll through leafy boulevards, admire Soviet-era architecture, or relax in one of the city’s cafes as you prepare for the adventures ahead.
Bishkek
Start the day with a visit to Ala-Too Square, the heart of Bishkek, and take in the surrounding landmarks. Continue to Osh Bazaar, a lively market where colorful spices, fresh produce, and local crafts offer a true taste of daily life in Bishkek. Next, visit Victory Square and the WWII Memorial, reflecting the country’s history and resilience. The afternoon is free to explore the city, visit local cafés and simply enjoy the rhythm of Bishkek at your own pace.
Bishkek/Kek Sai
Depart Bishkek and journey to the historic Burana Tower, exploring the ancient minaret and the surrounding open-air balbal stones, remnants of centuries-old nomadic culture. Continue to your yurt camp, where the afternoon is yours to settle in and take in the views. In the evening, enjoy an included dinner featuring traditional Kyrgyz dishes.
Kek Sai
After breakfast, enjoy a guided hike, reaching a stunning viewpoint over the surrounding valley. Take in the sweeping landscapes before returning to the yurt camp. Enjoy lunch at the camp, then spend the afternoon learning about the nomadic lifestyle and trying your hand at traditional games. In the evening, dive into Kyrgyz culture with a hands-on cooking experience, preparing Oromo and baursak before enjoying them for dinner under the stars.
Kek Sai/Karakol
Depart for the striking Fairytale Canyon, where jagged rock formations and colorful cliffs make for a landscape straight out of a storybook. Spend time exploring the canyon, taking in the dramatic scenery and snapping photos along the way. Continue to Barskoon Village to learn about local sustainable initiatives and even participate in yurt building, providing a hands-on glimpse into Kyrgyz traditions. Stop for lunch before driving to Karakol, where you’ll check in to your hotel. The rest of the day is free to relax or explore the town at your own pace.
Karakol/Almaty
Depart Karakol and journey to the border, where you’ll cross into Kazakhstan on foot, a small adventure marking your entry into a new country. On the Kazakh side, meet your vehicle and continue toward Charyn Canyon. Take time to explore the dramatic landscapes of Charyn Canyon, often called the “Grand Canyon of Central Asia,” before continuing on to Almaty. Check in to your hotel upon arrival and enjoy the rest of the day at leisure to relax or unwind after your journey.
Almaty
Start the morning with a visit to Panfilov Park, home to the colorful Zenkov Cathedral, before strolling through the park and soaking in the city’s history. Next, head to the Green Bazaar for a guided walk through bustling stalls overflowing with fresh produce, spices, and local treats — a true taste of daily life in Almaty. The afternoon is free to explore Almaty at your own pace and enjoy the city's unique atmosphere.
Almaty
Enjoy your final moments before departing at any time.
Is travel insurance required for my trip?
Travel Insurance: Travel insurance is compulsory in order to participate on any of our trips. When travelling on a group trip, you will not be permitted to join the group until evidence of travel insurance has been sighted by your CEO, who will take note of your insurance details. When selecting a travel insurance policy please bear in mind that all clients must have medical coverage and that we require a minimum coverage of USD 200,000 for repatriation and emergency rescue. We strongly recommend that the policy also covers personal liability, cancellation, curtailment and loss of luggage and personal effects. If you have credit card insurance we require proof of purchase of the trip (a receipt of credit card statement) with a credit card in your name. Contact your bank for details of their participating insurer, the level of coverage and emergency contact telephone number.
Terms, conditions and restrictions apply; pricing, availability, and other details subject to change and/ or apply to US or Canadian residents. Please confirm details and booking information with your travel advisor.
