Early departure from Bishkek for a full and eventful day. The first stop is Kok-Moynok Canyon, a less touristy but incredibly scenic spot where you’ll take a short 40–60 minute hike among striking red sandstone cliffs and sand formations. Lunch is planned en route in a cozy café in Kaji-Sai or Tamga village.
In the afternoon, visit the famous Skazka (Fairy Tale) Canyon, one of the natural highlights of the southern shore of Issyk-Kul. You’ll walk through a maze of clay and sand formations shaped like castles, dragons, and towers, each sculpted by time and wind.
After the excursion, continue to Tamga or Tosor for check-in at a comfortable guesthouse or traditional yurt. Spend the evening relaxing by the lake — enjoy the serene atmosphere, warm sauna, campfire, and stargazing under the clear mountain sky.
🏡 Overnight in Tamga or Tosor (guesthouse or yurt stay)

After breakfast, depart for the picturesque Jeti-Ögüz Gorge, famous for its striking red rock formations — the “Seven Bulls” and “Broken Heart.” Enjoy a short walk and photo stops surrounded by dramatic mountain scenery.
Continue to Karakol for a brief city tour, including visits to the beautifully preserved Dungan Mosque and the wooden Holy Trinity Orthodox Church, both remarkable examples of local architecture and culture.
Enjoy lunch in Karakol — we recommend trying authentic Dungan or Uyghur cuisine, such as handmade lagmannoodles, plov, and samsa.
In the afternoon, relax in the region’s hot springs, with the option of visiting open-air or indoor thermal pools surrounded by nature.
Later, drive to Jyrgalan (approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour) — a serene high-mountain village popular among eco-tourists and hikers. Take a leisurely walk through the village or enjoy a short trek along the river before settling in for the evening.
🏡 Overnight in Jyrgalan (cozy guesthouse with mountain views)

After breakfast, depart towards the northern shore of Issyk-Kul, following a scenic route with breathtaking views of the lake and surrounding mountains.
Enter the Grigoriev Gorge for a gentle hike through lush alpine meadows and pine forests, with opportunities for photos along the way. Weather permitting, enjoy a relaxing tea break or picnic in the fresh mountain air.
Continue to Cholpon-Ata for lunch, followed by a visit to the Ruh Ordo Cultural Center — a unique open-air complex showcasing exhibits dedicated to world religions, art, and Kyrgyz heritage, beautifully set on the shore of Issyk-Kul.
In the afternoon, begin the return journey to Bishkek through the dramatic Boom Gorge, arriving in the capital by evening.
🏡 Arrival in Bishkek (evening)