Kyrgyzstan · 10 - 17 September 2025
8 Day Kyrgyzstan Expedition
It's wild, it's vast, and it's absolutely stunning
BOOK NOW
Overview
This 8-day adventure through Kyrgyzstan is a journey into the heart of Central Asia's nomadic culture and stunning landscapes. Starting from Osh, you'll explore the historic Uzgen Minaret, hike through the vast walnut forests of Arslanbob, and marvel at the alpine beauty of Sary Chelek Lake. As you traverse the Suusamyr Valleynand drive along the turquoise Naryn River, you'll witness the rustic charm of remote villages like Kyzart and experience nomadic life in a yurt near the beautiful Song Kul Lake. Discover traditional crafts in Kochkor, snap a photo with a golden eagle in Bokonbaevo, and wander the surreal rock formations of Skazka Canyon. The journey wraps up with visits to Jeti Oguz rocks, the petroglyphs of Cholpon Ata, and a final exploration of the capital of Bishkek. This immersive itinerary blends cultural encounters, breathtaking hikes, and insights into Kyrgyzstan’s rich Silk Road heritage.
Highlights
Experience Kyrgyz Traditions
From a cuisine shaped by rugged landscapes and lifestyles to practices steeped in tradition, get a more intimate glimpse into the beautiful culture of Kyrgyzstan.
Horseback Riding In Beautiful Sceneries
From a traditional yurtstay, embark on a horseback ride to one of Kyrgyzstan's most beautiful locales- Song Kul Lake.
Take in Wild Landscapes
Despite its meager size, Kyrgyzstan features a myriad of landscapes from snowcapped peaks to forested valley and desertic scenes.
Itinerary
Previous
Next
Osh | Arslanbob
Day 1: Osh to Aslanbob
In the morning, hit the road toward Arslanbob, stopping at Uzgen Minaret, a stunning relic of the Karakhanid Dynasty on the way. This ancient minaret, built in the 11th century, is a striking remain of the Silk Road's influence in the Fergana Valley region. Take time to explore the adjacent mausoleums and snap some photos.
On arrival in Arslanbob, we'll have a wander through this charming Uzbek village, known for its sprawling walnut forests — the largest in the world, and if anyone's feeling up to it, a hike to a panoramic viewpoint that offers breathtaking views of the lush forest and snow-capped peaks.
In the evening, experience local hospitality with a traditional dinner and overnight stay at a homestay, where you'll get a glimpse of village life.
Drive time: 3-4 hours
Accommodation: Homestay
Included
Lunch
Dinner
Osh | Sary Chelek | Toktogul
Day 2: Sary Chelek
Following a local breakfast at the homestay, we will drive to Sary Chelek, a striking alpine lake, nestled at 1,873 meters above sea level, and part of the Sary Chelek Biosphere Reserve. On the way, stop at local markets to pick up fresh fruits and vegetables for a picnic.
After our picnic, we'll have time to hike along the shores, breathing in the crisp mountain air. in the afternoon, we will return to the village, and then continue to Karakul. If time allows, push on to Toktogul, a lively town famous for its namesake reservoir.
Drive time: 9-10 hours
Accommodation: Hotel
Included
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Chaek Village | Suusamyr Valley | KyzArt
Day 3: Chaek Village, Suusamyr Valley, & KyzArt
Today, we travel along the Naryn River, known for its turquoise waters, and pass through the Suusamyr Valley, a sweeping grassland ringed by mountains. In the summer, you’ll spot nomadic herders with their yurts and livestock dotting the landscape.
In the later part of the day, we will arrive to Kyzart, a quiet village offering a glimpse of traditional Kyrgyz life and enjoy a homecooked Kyrgyz dinner.
Drive time: 4-5 hours
Accommodation: Guesthouse
Included
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
KyzArt | Song Kul Lake
Day 4: Horse Trek to Song Kul Lake
After an early breakfast, we will embark on a horse trek to the beautiful Song Kul, a remote lake, where nomads still graze their herds and live in traditional yurts during summer.
Tonight we will once again stay the night in a lovely traditional yurt.
Accommodation: Yurtsay
Included
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
KyzArt | Naryn | Kochkor | Bokonbaevo
Day 5: Eagle Hunting in Bokonbaevo
Travel through the picturesque valleys of Naryn and the Orto Tokoi Reservoir, a serene water body surrounded by mountain views to reach the town of Kochkor.
Kochkor is well-known for handmade felt products, which make great souvenirs crafted by local artisans.
In the afternoon we will arrive in Bokonbaevo. Here, we meet a local eagle hunter who will explain the tradition of golden eagle hunting, a tradition passed through generations.
Drive time: 3-4 hours
Accommodation: Guesthouse
Included
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Skazka Canyon | Barskoon Falls | Jeti Oguz | Karakol
Day 6: Skazka Canyon, Barskoon Falls, & Jeti Oguz
After breakfast, we will continue along the southern shores of Lake Issykul to explore Skazka Canyon (Fairytale Canyon), famous for its surreal, red sandstone formations. Hike among the uniquely sculpted rock formations and listen to local legends.
A bit further on, we will reach the start of a short hike to Barskoon Waterfalls, giving you the opportunity to stretch your legs at these refreshing cascades surrounded by dense forest.
In the afternoon, we will reach the beautiful Jeti Oguz. Famed for its flaming red rocks, we will take time to visit the “Seven Bulls” rock formation and the "Broken Heart" — both steeped in folklore.
In the early evening we will reach Karakol and explore the charming town with its wooden Orthodox church and Dungan mosque.
Drive time: 5-6 hours
Accommodation: Guesthouse
Included
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Cholpon Ata | Chon Kemin | Chonkurchak | Bishkek
Day 7: Onward to Bishkek
Today we head west along the northern shore of Lake Issykul, stopping in Cholpon Ata along the way, famed for itsancient petroglyphs dating back to the Saka period — a fascinating glimpse into early nomadic life.
From Cholpon Ata (time permitting, of course) we will try to make an exploration of the beautiful Chon Kemin Valley, known for its meadows, forests, and horseback riding opportunities.
In the later part of the day, arrive in the capital of Bishkek, known for its Soviet architecture and bustling bazaars. Farewell dinner in a local restaurant.
Drive time: 5-6 hours
Accommodation: Hotel
Included
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Bishkek
Day 8: Departures from Bishkek
Departures from Bishkek throughout the day.
For those staying a little longer, there is the possibility to arrange an additional day tour of the cit.
Accommodation: None
Included
Breakfast
What's included
What's Included
All meals as indicated on the itinerary
English speaking guide
4WD transportation
Accommodation on twin room sharing basis in hotels, guesthouses & homestays
Night in a traditional yurt on a quad sharing basis
What's Not Included
Kyrgyzstan visa fee (if applicable)
Personal kit and equipment
Sleeping bag (rental available)
Alcoholic beverages
Travel insurance
Tips to local staff
Hosts
Nicole Smoot
Expedition Lead
Nicole Smoot is a travel adventurer and photographer born and raised in the Alaskan mountains. She enjoys bad taxidermy, post-soviet bunkers, spelunking, and homemade wine. Nicole’s adventures include surviving a bear attack, a glacial cave collapse, and utilizing a ceasefire to move a tour through Northern Afghanistan. She became the first foreign woman to summit Shah Foladi Mountain. Additionally, she has discovered and cataloged petroglyphs, cave drawings, and glacial cave location data.
Nicole maintains a proprietary network across Central Asia, the Middle East, and North Africa. She has consulted for various Ministries of Tourism and NGOs on tourism development. Despite the challenges, Nicole gravitates to regions often overlooked due to geopolitical strife and lack of tourism infrastructure. Her photography can be seen in National Geographic, Alaska Airlines Magazine, Lonely Planet, and at The.Adventures.Of.Nicole on Instagram.
Next Departures
8 Day Kyrgyzstan Expedition
The World's Most Epic Road Trip
FROM$1,600.00/pp
Extras & Options
Single Supplement
Opt for a private room when it's available. Subject to availability.
FROM$330.00/pp
ADD THISFAQs
Is Kyrgyzstan Safe to Visit?
Kyrgyzstan is generally safe to visit. The main concerns while traveling in Kyrgyzstan are the risk of injury during outdoor activities and altitude sickness.
Where are the Start & End Points on this Expedition?
This 8 Day Kyrgyzstan Expedition will begin in Osh, Kyrgyzstan, and end in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan.
What Is The Difficulty Level Of This Kyrgyzstan Expedition?
This Kyrgyzstan expedition is rated as moderate. We will be staying in simple homestays and guesthouses many of the nights and even a yurtstay.
What are the Entry Requirements for Kyrgyzstan?
Many nationalities can enter Kyrgyzstan visa-free for up to 60 days, while several others can obtain an e-visa.
Do I Need Travel Insurance to Join this Kyrgyzstan Expedition?
To join any Safar Expeditions departure you will need to carry an active travel insurance plan.
We recommend using IATI travel insurance for medical coverage and an evacuation plan from Global Rescue.
Prescriptions and over-the-counter meds are usually possible to find in in Osh and Bishkek, but we still recommend to make sure to bring any meds you need or may need with you.
What Currency Is Used In Kyrgyzstan & How Can I Pay For Things?
The Kyrgyz Som (KGS) is the official currency of Kyrgyzstan. The value of the Som fluctuates a little but seems to have steadily stayed around 80-90 KGS to $1 USD for the past couple of years.
Is There A Kyrgyzstan Packing List & Prep Guide?
Yes, we do provide a suggested packing list and preparation guide for our Kyrgyzstan expedition that can be viewed here.
What Is The Food Like & Can You Accommodate Dietary Restrictions?
The food you'll encounter during your time in Kyrgyzstan will much of the time be simple and traditional. In the cities and towns, we will have the chance to try different Kyrgyz and Central Asian dishes in local restaurants. In more remote areas we'll mostly be eating homecooked meals provided by the homestays we'll staying in. You can expect flavorful soups and salads, plov (a traditional Central Asian take on fried rice), noodle dishes, and meat dishes. Of course, almost any meal in Kyrgyzstan is accompanied by a hot glass of chai.
Please let us know of any dietary restrictions or allergies in advance so that we can accommodate your needs.
Will I Have Internet Access & Electricity?
SIM cards are available for purchase in Osh from numerous carriers for quite cheap. Internet can be intermittent in parts of the country, as we will have some nights where we won't have access to mobile internet or Wi-Fi.
You can expect to have electricity most nights of the expedition.
Is There a Minimum Number of Participants Necessary for the Expedition to Run?
Yes, a minimum of 3 passengers will need to be on this expedition in order to run. If the minimum isn't reached, we will contact you about the potential to still operate the trip but at an additional charge or you will be given the option to cancel and your deposit/payment can either be returned to you or applied toward a different expedition of your choosing.