Private road trip · 5 days
Song-Kol & Issyk-Kul, 5 days
A compact private journey from lakeside canyons to the high pastures of Song-Kol.
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Duration
5 days
Start / finish
Bishkek → Bishkek
Season
June–September for the high-mountain section
Difficulty
Easy to moderate; short walks are optional
Group
Private tour
Stays
Guesthouse and yurt camps
Day by day
The route
Driving and walking times are practical estimates. Weather and road conditions can change the rhythm of a mountain day.
- Day 1
Bishkek, Burana and Chon-Kemin
Meet your driver-guide at Manas International Airport in Bishkek, then leave for the Burana Tower and the remains of the old settlement around it. Continue to Chon-Kemin for lunch with a local family and an unhurried first evening in the valley.
- Day 2
South shore of Issyk-Kul
Follow the quieter southern shore of Issyk-Kul. Walk in the Ak-Sai canyons, meet a local eagle hunter for a demonstration, then settle into a yurt camp near Bokonbaevo.
- Day 3
Across Kalmak-Ashuu to Song-Kol
Turn inland and climb through the Kalmak-Ashuu Pass to Song-Kol. The road opens onto wide summer pastures around the lake, with time to walk near camp after arrival.
- Day 4
A full day at Song-Kol
Keep the day open for the lake and the jailoo. Walk from the camp, spend time with the host family, or arrange a horse ride if you would like one.
- Day 5
The 33 Parrots road to Bishkek
Descend the mountain switchbacks known locally as the 33 Parrots. Break the return journey with a short walk to a waterfall before arriving back in Bishkek.
The practical details
Included and not included
The final quote lists every stay, meal and activity agreed for your version of the tour.
Included
- Private car with an English-speaking driver-guide
- Fuel and all driving described in the program
- Help booking guesthouses and yurt camps
Not included
- Personal expenses
- Optional activities unless they are added to your quote
- Anything not listed in your confirmed itinerary and quote
Private tour price
Price on request
Tell us your dates and group size for a tailored quote.