Epic Trip from Bishkek to Osh via Issyk-Kul and Song-Kol Lakes

DAY 1: BISHKEK TO ISSYK-KUL LAKE 

Driving time/distance: 4 hours, 180 km

Begin your adventure with a scenic drive from Bishkek to the enchanting Issyk-Kul Lake. En route, visit the historic Burana Tower, a 9th-century Silk Road monument, and learn about its fascinating history. Continue your journey to the southern shore of the lake, stopping at the breathtaking Fairy Tale Canyon, where vibrant rock formations ignite the imagination. Arrive at Bel Tam Yurt Camp and enjoy a traditional lunch in a cozy yurt. Spend your afternoon immersed in unique Kyrgyz culture – watch an eagle hunting demonstration (optional), enjoy a relaxing horseback ride along the lake (optional), or take a refreshing dip in the clear waters. End the day with dinner and an overnight stay at the yurt camp, under a canopy of stars.

Accommodation: shared yurts in Bel-Tam yurt camp (3-4 people in a yurt)
Facilities: Wi-Fi (free of charge), hot shower, and western-style toilets

DAY 2: JETI-OGUZ VALLEY & OGUZ BASHY PEAK HIKE 

Driving distance/time: 140 km / 2 hours
Hiking distance/time: 6 km / 4 hours

Travel to the stunning Jeti-Oguz Valley, famous for its red sandstone cliffs like the “Broken Heart” and “Seven Bulls.” On the way, stop at the picturesque Barskon Waterfalls, an idyllic spot for photos. Arrive at the yurt camp in Kok Jaiyk Valley and enjoy a hearty lunch. Afterward, set out on a hike through alpine meadows adorned with wildflowers and herds of grazing livestock. Reach the viewpoint for the majestic, glaciated Oguz Bashy Peak. Return to the yurt camp for dinner and a restful evening surrounded by natural beauty.

Accommodation: shared yurts in Golden yurt camp (3-4 people in a yurt)
Facilities: Wi-Fi (free of charge), hot shower, traditional Russian-style sauna (banya), and western-style toilets

DAY 3: JOURNEY TO KOCHKOR TOWN 

Driving distance/time: 260 km, 4 hours

Start the day with a gentle morning hike to a hidden mountain waterfall near Jeti-Oguz. Continue your drive to Kochkor Town, stopping along the way to savor the scenic landscapes of rolling hills and rural villages. Arrive at a family-run homestay, where you’ll be welcomed with warm hospitality. Spend the afternoon exploring the village and participating in a shyrdak (felt carpet) workshop (optional), led by skilled artisans, offering a glimpse into Kyrgyz traditions.

Accommodation: shared twin rooms in a guest house/hotel
Facilities: Wi-Fi (free of charge), hot shower, and western-style toilets

DAY 4: KOCHKOR TO SONG-KOL LAKE

Driving distance/time: 90 km, 3 hours

Depart for Song-Kol Lake, a serene alpine haven cherished by Kyrgyz nomads for its untouched beauty and vast summer pastures. Upon arrival, settle into a cozy yurt for lunch, savoring freshly prepared traditional dishes. Spend the afternoon riding horses (optional), along the lake’s shimmering shores or enjoying a peaceful walk amidst the idyllic scenery. As night falls, experience the warmth of Kyrgyz hospitality.

Accommodation: shared yurts in Rakhima yurt camp (3-4 people in a yurt)
Facilities: Wi-Fi (available at an additional cost for 200 KGS), solar panels, hot shower, traditional Russian-style sauna (banya), and western-style toilets

DAY 5: SONG-KOL LAKE TO KAZARMAN 

Driving distance/time: 210 km, 6 hours

Embark on an unforgettable drive through the rugged Moldo Ashuu Pass, marveling at its dramatic switchbacks and colorful mountain vistas. The route offers spectacular views of traditional yurts scattered across rolling hills. Descend into the peaceful Kazarman Village, where you’ll unwind in a friendly local homestay. Relax with a home-cooked dinner and experience the simplicity of village life.

Accommodation: shared twin rooms in a guest house
Facilities: Wi-Fi (free of charge), hot shower, and western-style toilets

DAY 6: KAZARMAN TO ARSLANBOB

Driving distance/time: 240 km, 6 hours

Leave Kazarman behind and journey across the stunning Kaldama Pass to reach Arslanbob Village, home to the world’s largest walnut forest. On arrival, explore the village’s picturesque trails and waterfalls, immersing yourself in its tranquil atmosphere. Hike to the Panorama Hill, which offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. Enjoy a traditional dinner at the guesthouse, where you’ll also spend the night.

Accommodation: shared twin rooms in a guest house
Facilities: Wi-Fi (free of charge), hot shower, and western-style toilets

DAY 7: ARSLANBOB TO OSH CITY 

Driving distance/time: 200 km, 5 hours

Start your day with a hike to the 80-meter Arslanbob Waterfall and soak in the bird’s-eye view of the village from the top. Afterward, return to the guesthouse for lunch before driving to Osh City. Along the way, visit the Uzgen Minaret and Mausoleum, an architectural gem from the Karakhanid era. Arrive in Osh in the evening, where your journey concludes with a comfortable hotel stay.

This trip offers an ideal blend of breathtaking landscapes, cultural immersion, and unforgettable adventures, making it the ultimate journey through Kyrgyzstan.

Price for the Epic trip from Bishkek to Osh via Issyk-Kul and Song-Kul Lakes:

Included: 

• Private 4×4 off-road car with English-speaking driver (4 people in one car)
• Driver’s meals and accommodations
• Fuel

Not included:

• Your accommodation (Approximately 30-35 USD per person per day)
• Meals: lunches on the way, dinners (10-14 USD per person per day)
  
• Eagle show (optional, can be arranged for an extra 70 USD for a group)
• Bottled water, soft/hard drinks, coffee (10-15 USD per person for entire trip)
• Sightseeing entrance tickets (10-15 USD per person for entire trip)
• Tour Guide (Available for 120 USD per day including his meals and accommodations)
• Tips
• Insurance

*Please let us know in advance if you are vegetarian/vegan or if you have food allergies.

Summer 2026 Group Tours are open for booking!

Lock in your trip with a $100 deposit now.

If you have any questions or booking issues,  please contact us.

*If the group doesn’t fill up, your deposit will be fully refunded.