Kazakhstan & Kyrgyzstan
Exploration Tour
Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan Explorer
Summary
Type: Exploration Tour
Duration: 11 Days
Best Time to Travel: May – October
Places you'll discover
Speak to our friendly Travel Experts
Quick Enquiry: Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan Explorer
Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan Explorer - Itinerary
The landlocked Central Asian countries of Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan are still relatively new to tourism and as such they represent exciting destinations to explore. The area around Almaty is one of natural beauty with stunning lakes, canyons and gorges.
Both countries have dramatic and rugged landscapes – from Issyk Kul Lake, the second largest alpine lake in the world to the breath-taking Ak Sai Gorge with its views of the Tien Shan Mountains.
Day 1
Almaty


Arrive and transfer to the hotel.

Sightseeing tour of Almaty, set at the foot of the emerald Tian-Shan Mountains. Visit the Central Museum, Independence Monument in Republic Square and the Central mosque.
Day 2
Almaty

Visit Big Almaty Lake situated in a canyon in the Zailiskiy Alatau Mountains.

Hike around the lake before returning to Almaty.
Day 3
Almaty

Drive to the Charyn Canyons stretching over 150kms with vertical cliffs.

Explore the yellow and red sandstone Castles Valley.
Day 4
Almaty


Excursion to Medeo, situated in a mountain gorge near Almaty and Chymbulak, a popular ski resort. Take the cable car up to an altitude of 3,160 metres.

Return to Almaty and a city tour including Zenkov’s Orthodox Cathedral and the Great Patriotic War Memorial.
Day 5
Almaty – Bishkek

Depart for the Kyrgyzstan border on the edge of the great Kazakh Steppe.

Arrive in Bishkek and a guided tour of the State History Museum, Ala Too Square, Parliament House and Lenin’s Monument.
Day 6
Bishkek


Drive to the 12th century Burana Tower, part of the ancient town of Balasagun – one of the capitals of the Karakhanid Empire.

Lunch with a local Russian family before driving to Issyk Ata Gorge.
Day 7
Bishkek

Visit Ala Archa National Park set in Ala Archa Gorge home to wild goats, deer and marmots and the increasingly rare snow leopard.

Hike to Ak Sai Gorge for breath-taking views of the Tien Shan Mountains.
Day 8
Bishkek – Issyk Kul Lake


Depart Bishkek for Issyk Kul Lake, the world’s second largest alpine lake after Lake Titicaca.

Enjoy the lake scenery, go for a swim or relax on the beach by the lake.
Day 9
Issyk Kul Lake

Optional of a one hour boat ride on the lake. Drive to Chon Ak Suu or Grigorrievskoe Gorge.

Walk around the area before returning to the hotel where the rest of the day is free.
Day 10
Issyk Kul Lake – Bishkek

Drive to the Cholpon Ata Petroglyphs, also known as the Stone Garden. Visit the History Museum.

Return to Bishkek by road. En route we pass through Boom or Evil Spirit Gorge.
Day 11
Bishkek

Transfer to Manas Airport for your onward flight.
Additional Information
What's Included?
- Room accommodation in twin share
- Private transportation by car/ minivan
- Experienced English speaking Kazakh and Kyrgyz guides
- Drinking water in car / minivan
- Daily breakfast and meals as mentioned in itinerary
- Entrance and sightseeing fees as mentioned in the itinerary
- Airport arrival and departure transfers
What's Not Included?
- International Flights
- Drinks during meals
- Optional tours
- Visas
- Any personal expenses such as laundry, hotel phone etc
- Tips and gratuities
Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan Explorer Summary
Details
Type: Exploration
Duration: 11 Days
Best Time to Travel: May – October
Places you'll discover
Speak to our friendly Travel Experts