Song-Kul & Kel-Suu Lakes

Song-Kul & Kel-Suu Lakes

Days

4

From / per pax

US$ 813 US$

Start and end in Bishkek

Places You’ll See

Song-Kul Lake

Song-Kul Lake is a picturesque alpine lake situated in the midst of Tian Shan mountains. It is located at the altitude of 3016 meters above sea level and its depth reaches 22 meters in some spots. Son-Kul feeds off of small mountain rivers.

The lake is situated in a mountain plain surrounded by meadows. These meadows, or zhailoo, as the locals call them, have been used as grazing fields for livestock since the ancient times. Numerous petroglyphs found at the shore of the lake are the evidence of that. Local shepherds bring livestock to the lake for the summer and stay in yurts.

That is why the tourists visiting the area can luckily experience multiple colors of the Kyrgyz culture: not only do they get to stay in a national dwelling – yurt, but they also have a chance to satisfy their thirstiness with the traditional Kyrgyz drink – kumis. It is made of mare milk in accordance with the special technology and has a vast number of health benefits.

Because of the low temperatures, large amounts of snow precipitation – snow covers the fields of the region for roughly 130-160 days a year, and road closures, Song-Kul is unavailable for tourism during the winter months.

Kel-Suu Lake

The high-mountain lake Köl-Suu is located in the southern part of the Ak-Sai Valley at an altitude of 3,514 meters above sea level. The lake attracts tourists from all over the world with its untouched beauty, surrounded by sheer cliffs and emerald-colored water.

The lake was formed as a result of a strong earthquake. Its name translates to "coming water," which is fitting, as the lake has the unique characteristic of disappearing into underground caves and grottos, only to fill up again later.

In summer, the air temperature ranges from 14-16 degrees during the day, while at night it can drop below zero. Even during this period, snow may fall. The water temperature in summer is around 6-8 degrees.

The approach to the lake is quite marshy, and it can only be accessed by an off-road vehicle. Since the lake is located near the Kyrgyz-Chinese border, a border permit is required.

Kok-Moinok Canyons

Kok-Moinok Canyons, located 160 km east of Bishkek near the village of the same name, are a mesmerizing natural wonder shaped by wind and water. Nestled in the floodplain of the Chu River, these unique clay and sandstone formations, with their vivid red and yellow hues, reveal a landscape carved over thousands of years.

Intricate ledges, terraces, and winding passages stretching up to 2.5 km create the surreal atmosphere of an alien city, complete with microscopic caves and stunning natural sculptures. Legend has it that Lake Issyk-Kul’s waters once flowed through these lands, leaving behind striking salt deposits as evidence. Visitors are treated to breathtaking views of the canyons and Boom Gorge, making it a perfect destination for hiking and photography.

Be prepared for changing weather conditions and bring a jacket, even in the summer, to fully enjoy the adventure in this ever-changing and enchanting place.

Itinerary

Day 1: Song-Kul Lake

07:00 departure from Bishkek. Departure from Almaty is also possible

12:00 lunch in the village of Kochkor

16:00 arrival at Song-Kul Lake and accommodation in yurts. Optional horseback riding and tasting of kumis, a fermented dairy drink made from mare’s milk

19:00 dinner and overnight stay in yurts

Day 2: yurt camp

07:00 breakfast

08:00 departure from the camp

12:00 lunch in the village of Naryn

18:00 arrival at the yurt camp and rest

19:00 dinner and overnight stay

Day 3: Kel-Suu Lake

07:00 breakfast

08:00 departure from the camp by UAZ vehicle or horseback

09:00 arrival at Kel-Suu Lake, excursion. If boats are available, a boat ride or a visit to the valley on the opposite shore is possible for an additional fee

12:00 lunch with lunchboxes

15:00 return trip to the yurt camp

16:00 arrival at the camp, departure to the village of Naryn

20:00 arrival at a guest house or small hotel, dinner

Day 4: Kok-Moinok Canyons and return to Bishkek

07:00 breakfast

08:00 departure from the village of Naryn

11:00 visit to Kok-Moinok Canyons

13:00 lunch at a roadside café

17:00 return to Bishkek. Transfer to Almaty is also possible

What's Included

  • Transport
  • English-speaking guide / driver
  • Border permits
  • Accommodation
    • Song-Kul Lake: yurt
    • Kel-Suu Lake: yurt
    • Naryn Village: guest house or hotel
  • Meals according to the program
  • National parks entrance fees
  • Water

What's Excluded

  • International flights
  • Alcoholic drinks
  • Insurance
  • Boat ride on Kel-Suu Lake (~$20 per person)
  • Visit to the opposite shore of Kel-Suu Lake (~$80 per person)

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