Welcome to
Bishkek
Issyk Kul Two Day Tour with Yurt Stay
- Max Travelers8 people
- CategoryBus Tours, Car Tours
Overview
This is the only 2-day Issyk-Kul tour where everything is truly included – all four meals, yurt accommodation, entrance fees, and hotel transfers – so there are no hidden costs along the way. You’ll experience the real nomadic Kyrgyzstan, not just see it: watch an eagle hunting demonstration by a local berkutchi, try traditional archery, and fall asleep in an authentic felt yurt right on the shore of the world’s second-largest alpine lake. The route covers the most spectacular natural sights of the south shore – the colorful Ak-Sai canyons, the fairy-tale rock formations of Skazka Canyon, and the “Tears of the Snow Leopard” waterfall in Barskoon Gorge – with short, easy hikes suitable for most fitness levels. Small groups, home-cooked Kyrgyz meals, and a guide who shares the history and culture of the region make this an immersive introduction to Kyrgyzstan in just two days.
Gallery
What's included
D1: lunch, dinner at yurt camp. D2: breakfast, lunch. Tea & water with all...
Hotel pickup and drop-off in Bishkek
Lunch
Eagle hunting demonstration and archery
Dinner
English-speaking guide
Breakfast
Entrance fees to Skazka Canyon, Ak-Sai Canyon and Barskoon Waterfall
Transport in a comfortable air-conditioned vehicle
1 night in a traditional yurt camp (shared yurt, bedding provided)
What's Not included
Personal expenses and souvenirs
Travel insurance
Itinerary
Scenic drive through the dramatic Boom Gorge along the Chu River, with mountain views and a short rest stop for coffee and snacks on the way to Issyk-Kul
Stop for a traditional Kyrgyz lunch at a local restaurant - your first taste of authentic local cuisine. Lunch is included.
Short, easy hike to a hilltop viewpoint with sweeping views over the colorful Ak-Sai canyons on one side and the blue expanse of Issyk-Kul Lake on the other - a perfect photo spot.
Free time in the lakeside: swim in Issyk-Kul Lake or stroll along the shoreline, depending on the season. Then meet a local berkutchi (eagle hunter) for an eagle hunting demonstration - learn about the ancient bond between hunter and bird, take photos with the eagle, and try traditional archery. The day ends with a homemade dinner and an overnight stay in a traditional felt yurt by the lake.
Guided walk through the famous Fairy Tale Canyon, where wind and water have sculpted red and orange sandstone into shapes resembling castles, animals, and dragons - one of the most photogenic places in Kyrgyzstan.
Short hike through alpine forest to the waterfall, surrounded by mountain scenery and a crystal-clear river. In winter, the waterfall freezes into a spectacular wall of ice. Afterwards, enjoy a traditional lunch served in a yurt or a local cafu00e9, depending on the season (included).
Final photo stop at a panoramic viewpoint overlooking the turquoise Orto-Tokoy Reservoir, framed by mountains, before the drive back to Bishkek (hotel drop-off at approximately 21:00u201322:00).
Good to know
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Wear comfortable closed walking shoes; the walks in Skazka Canyon and Barskoon Gorge (about 1u20131.5 km each, up to 100u2013150 m elevation gain, 40u201360 minutes) are on uneven rocky ground.
Before departure check the weather forecast for Bokonbaevo, not Bishkek: the south shore of Issyk-Kul is cooler and windier, and evenings at the yurt camp are cold even in summer. Bring a warm jacket, layers and a rain jacket.
Bring sunscreen, a hat and 1u20132 liters of drinking water per person for the walks.
Seatbelts are provided in the vehicle and must be worn at all times.
Minimum age 7; children must be accompanied by an adult. Senior travelers are welcome if comfortable with 1u20131.5 hours of easy walking per day.
Eagle demonstration: the eagle is handled only by an experienced local berkutchi (traditional Kyrgyz eagle hunter) who owns and trains the bird. Guests may take a photo with the eagle on a protective glove provided by the berkutchi, who places the bird himself and stays beside the guest at all times; no feeding or unsupervised handling, children only together with a parent. Eagle hunting is a recognised part of Kyrgyz nomadic heritage and the demonstration is conducted in line with local regulations with the welfare of the bird as a priority.
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.