Quick Details:
- Duration: 1 Night +
- Departure Location: Bishkek or Almaty
- Ages: All Ages
- Availability: Year-round
- Activities: Beach, Hiking, Yurt Stay, Horse Riding, Boat Ride, Gorge Exploration, Museum the Ruh Ordo
- Included: Guide, excursion, entry fee, transfer (round trip), hotel, breakfast
- Excluded (can be added): Lunch, Dinner, Horse riding, Yurt stay, Boat ride
- Suggestion: Take a Burana Tower 1-day tour on the way to Issyk Kul
Itinerary
Morning Departure from Bishkek
Start your adventure with a scenic drive from Bishkek to Issyk Kul Lake (around 4 hours of drive), passing through beautiful landscapes, villages, and mountain views. On the way, enjoy an introduction to the history and significance of Issyk Kul, a key destination for locals and travelers alike.
Arrival and Relaxation at Issyk Kul
Upon arrival, take a relaxing stroll along the shores of Issyk Kul, the second-largest saline lake in the world. Depending on the season, you can enjoy a refreshing swim in the crystal-clear water or simply relax on the beach.
Lunch and Visit to a Local Museum
Enjoy a local lunch in a local restaurant before heading to the Museum of the Ruh Ordo located in Cholpon-Ata city, dedicated to the famous Kyrgyz writer Chinghiz Aitmatov. Learn about the cultural and literary heritage of the region while exploring the museum’s exhibits.
Grigor’yevskoye Gorge Hike
Next, head to the nearby Grigor’yevskoye Gorge, famous for its stunning scenery and natural beauty. Take a moderate hike through the gorge, passing through lush valleys, alpine meadows, and clear streams. Take a lunch in the traditional yurt (the steam fish is popular dish there)
Hiking in Semenov Gorge
This picturesque valley is known for its lush green meadows, towering pine forests, and crystal-clear streams flowing through the gorge. Visitors can explore scenic hiking trails, enjoy horseback riding, or simply relax amidst the tranquil beauty of the Kyrgyz mountains.
Skazka Canyon
Also known as Fairy Tale Canyon, is a breathtaking natural wonder near Issyk Kul Lake in Kyrgyzstan. Its unique, colorful rock formations resemble castles, animals, and fantastical shapes, carved by wind and water over centuries. A visit to Skazka Canyon offers a magical experience of hiking through its surreal landscapes, perfect for photography and exploration.
Night Stay in the Hotel or in the Traditional Yurt
After a day of activities, relax in the cozy yurt, surrounded by nature, and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of the lake region in the hotel. Experience the traditional Kyrgyz way of living by staying in a yurt for the night is possible.
Exploration (Horse Riding as an option)
After a restful, we will discover the area. You can try the popular Kyrgyz activity – Horseback riding around the lake, offering unique views of the mountains and surrounding scenery.
Boat Ride
On the second day, enjoy a tranquil boat ride on the waters of Issyk Kul (as an option), taking in the stunning landscape from the lake. After the boat ride, take some final moments to enjoy the beauty of Issyk Kul before heading back to Bishkek in the afternoon.
Explore Golden Sands and the Ferris Wheel
Head over to the Golden Sands area, a popular resort destination known for its fun activities. Experience the panoramic views of the lake and surrounding landscape from the Ferris wheel, or enjoy other exciting attractions available in the area.
Tour Highlights
- Scenic drive to Issyk Kul Lake and Grigor’yevskoye Gorge
- Relaxation and swimming at Issyk Kul’s pristine beaches (summer)
- Traditional yurt stay for an authentic Kyrgyz experience (optional)
- Exciting Ferris wheel ride at Golden Sands with breathtaking views
- Hiking and exploring the stunning Grigor’yevskoye Gorge or “Skazka” Canyon
- Visit the Ruh-Ordo open-air Museum
- Try the boat ride on Issyk Kul Lake with a panoramic lake and mountain views
Full description
Read about the tour
Issyk Kul Lake is one of Kyrgyzstan’s top destinations, offering a variety of activities surrounded by stunning natural beauty. This 1-night tour from Bishkek provides the perfect mix of adventure, relaxation, and cultural experiences. Your journey begins with a scenic drive to Issyk Kul, where you’ll enjoy the refreshing lake, beautiful beaches, and surrounding mountains.
Summer activities
During the summer, you can enjoy a swim in Issyk Kul Lake, one of the largest saline lakes in the world, or simply relax on the golden sands of the beach. For those seeking fun, a visit to Golden Sands Resort offers activities like riding the Ferris wheel, where you can capture panoramic views of the entire area.
Gorge of Issyk-Kul
The tour also includes a visit to Grigor’yevskoye Gorge, a natural wonder located nearby. This beautiful gorge offers scenic trails and stunning vistas that are perfect for nature lovers and photographers alike. You’ll have the opportunity to hike through the gorge, marvel at its alpine meadows, and soak in the peaceful atmosphere of the region.
Gorge for hiking
Moreover, visitors can visit another amazing place for hiking – Semënov Gorge, located on the northern shore of Issyk-Kul Lake, is a stunning natural gem and a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts. Just a short drive from Cholpon-Ata, Semënov Gorge offers an unforgettable experience, showcasing the pristine charm of Kyrgyzstan’s landscapes.
Fairy Tail
You can visit Skazka Canyon, also called Fairy Tale Canyon, which is a mesmerizing destination famous for its vibrant, otherworldly rock formations. Located near Issyk Kul Lake, this geological marvel captivates visitors with its intricate natural sculptures that evoke stories from a fairy tale. Exploring the canyon is an unforgettable journey into a landscape shaped by time and imagination.
Museum of Aitmatov
A visit to the Ruh-Ordo Museum enriches your cultural experience, allowing you to learn about one of Kyrgyzstan’s most influential writers and his impact on the country’s history. In the evening, you’ll enjoy a stay in a traditional yurt, where you can immerse yourself in Kyrgyz culture while resting for the night.
Enjoy the lake
On the second day, a peaceful boat ride on Issyk Kul Lake gives you a unique view of the surrounding landscape. After the boat ride, you’ll have some free time to explore more of the lake’s beauty before returning to Bishkek. This overnight tour combines the best of nature, culture, and fun, making it an unforgettable adventure in Kyrgyzstan.
Bishkek - Issyk-Kul (Cholpon-Ata)
Cholpon-Ata - Grigor'yevskoye Gorge
Book with confidence
- No Cancellation Fees
- No Change Fees
- No Booking Fees
- Your Money is Protected – Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the day of departure
FAQ
What should I bring for the Issyk Kul and Grigor'yevskoye Gorge tour?
Bring comfortable hiking shoes, swimwear for the beach (during summer), a jacket for cooler evenings, sunscreen, and a camera for capturing beautiful landscapes.
Is the hike in Grigor'yevskoye Gorge suitable for all ages?
Yes, the hike is moderate and can be enjoyed by all ages. However, some parts of the trail may be more challenging, so it’s important to wear proper footwear and stay hydrated.
Is the Ferris wheel at Golden Sands open year-round?
The Ferris wheel is open seasonally, typically in the summer months. However, other activities in Golden Sands can be enjoyed year-round, depending on the season.
Can I swim in Issyk Kul Lake in the winter?
Swimming is popular during the summer months when the water is warmer. In the winter, while swimming is not recommended due to cold temperatures, the lake remains a beautiful place to visit.
Is the yurt stay comfortable?
Yes, the yurts are equipped for comfort and provide a cozy, unique experience. They are perfect for enjoying the night sky and a restful sleep after a day of adventure.
Can I visit the Ruh-Ordo Museum year-round?
Yes, the Museum of Aitmatov is open year-round and offers an insightful experience into the life and works of Kyrgyzstan’s most famous writer.
Get your tour with us
Ready to experience the beauty of Issyk-Kul? Secure your spot today and embark on an unforgettable adventure!
