Issyk Kul Lake and Altyn Arashan Highlights in 4 Days

The tour begins with a drive from Bishkek to the southern shore of Issyk-Kul Lake. Enjoy scenic mountain and lakeside views along the way. Upon arrival, experience authentic nomadic culture with a traditional Eagle Hunting show and stories about Kyrgyz traditions. Dinner and overnight in a guesthouse or yurt camp.

After breakfast, we explore the natural highlights of Issyk-Kul’s south shore. Walk through the Fairy Tale (Skazka) Canyon with its surreal, colorful rock formations. Continue to the Barskoon Waterfalls hidden in spruce forests, followed by a visit to the iconic red cliffs of Jeti-Oguz. Evening transfer to Karakol for overnight stay.

The highlight of the tour and the most adventurous day. In the morning, we switch to a military off-road vehicle and travel to the remote Altyn-Arashan Gorge. The rugged road follows rocky mountain tracks and river crossings. Upon arrival, relax in natural hot springs and enjoy walks through alpine meadows. Evening return to Karakol.

In the morning, explore Karakol city, including the Dungan Mosque and the Orthodox Church. Then drive along the northern shore of Issyk-Kul. In Cholpon-Ata, enjoy a lakeside walk and a relaxing boat cruise on Issyk-Kul Lake. After the cruise, return to Bishkek, marking the end of the tour.