Kyrgyzstan Spring Tour
Discover Kyrgyzstan as its valleys turn green, snow still crowns the Tien Shan and the country’s best-known landscapes remain wonderfully quiet.
The Kyrgyzstan Spring Tour takes you on a complete journey around Issyk Kul Lake, combining red rock canyons, forested mountain gorges, local traditions and welcoming family-run accommodation. You go horse riding in Chon Kemin, hiking through the otherworldly formations of Konorchek Canyon, explore the northern and southern shores of Issyk Kul and spend a night in a traditional yurt in the Kok Jaiyk Valley.
Spring offers a different experience from Kyrgyzstan’s busy summer season. The lower valleys begin to turn green, the mountains are often still covered in snow and popular places such as Skazka Canyon, Barskoon Waterfall, Jeti Oguz and the gorges near Karakol receive far fewer visitors.
The journey balances active days with cultural encounters. You visit the ancient Burana Tower, walk through alpine valleys, relax in hot springs and meet local artisans and eagle hunters. This tour is ideal for adventurous travellers who want to experience Kyrgyzstan’s landscapes and nomadic culture.
If you’re from Belgium or the Netherlands, you can read the description in Dutch.
Kyrgyzstan Spring Tour Departures 2027:
April 11th – April 18th
May 9th – May 16th
Tour price: €1600 per person
→ Book by December 1st, 2026, and receive a 5% early-booking discount!
Limited places available – reserve your spot now!
WOULD YOU LIKE TO SEE MORE OF CENTRAL ASIA IN SPRING?
During this 8-day tour, you’ll experience Kyrgyzstan in Spring. If you have more time, you can also combine it with the 13-day Spring Tour in Uzbekistan, combining the legendary Silk Road Cities with remote mountain trails, desert camps and local village life!
The 8-day Kyrgyzstan SPRING TOUR at a glance
- Duration: 8 days/7 nights
- Group: Small international group (maximum 10 travellers)
- Arrival & Departure: Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan
- Main highlights: Burana Tower, Chon Kemin, Konorchek Canyon, Issyk Kul Lake, Grigorievka and Semenovka Gorges, Karakol Gorge, Jeti Oguz, Kok Jaiyk, Barskoon, Skazka Canyon, Shatyly Panorama and Ak Sai Canyon
- Activities: scenic walks, one longer 16 km day hike, a half-day horse ride, hot springs, felt-making and an eagle-hunter demonstration
- Activity level: Easy – moderate
- Accommodation: 6 nights in local guesthouses and one night in a yurt camp
- Guide: experienced English-speaking local tour guide, arranged by my trusted local partner Emir from E2 Travel.
The reviews below are from travellers who joined the previous Journal of Nomads Spring Tour.
Why visit Kyrgyzstan in Spring?
Kyrgyzstan changes quickly between winter and summer. In April and May, the lower valleys and foothills begin to wake up while the high peaks remain white. The contrast between fresh green landscapes, red sandstone canyons and snow-covered mountains is especially striking around Issyk Kul. You also experience many of Kyrgyzstan’s best-known places without the summer crowds.
What makes this tour speciaL?
Many Kyrgyzstan itineraries focus on long summer drives and high-altitude treks. This journey takes a slower route around Issyk Kul and combines accessible outdoor activities with time in villages, guesthouses and mountain valleys. You see both shores of the lake, experience a wide variety of landscapes and still have time for genuine cultural encounters.
The route supports local guesthouses, yurt camps, guides, drivers, craftspeople and families. The group stays small, which creates a personal atmosphere and gives the guide more freedom to adapt activities to the weather and interests of the travellers.
Why travel with journal of nomads?
I first arrived in Kyrgyzstan in 2017 while hitchhiking from Europe to Asia. What was meant to be a short visit turned into nearly a year of living and travelling around the country. I have continued returning to its mountains, valleys and communities ever since.
I have been organising Kyrgyzstan tours since 2018, long before the country started appearing on most travelers’ radar. The itineraries are shaped by places I know personally, feedback from previous travellers and the practical experience of local teams. This spring route was designed to show how rewarding Kyrgyzstan can be outside the main summer trekking season.
Journal of Nomads is not a large, anonymous tour operator. I remain your personal point of contact before, during and after the journey, help you prepare and work directly with my local team. My aim is to offer an adventurous and authentic experience while being honest about modest accommodation, changing weather and the flexibility that travel in the Kyrgyz mountains sometimes requires.
8-day Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Bishkek, onward to Burana Tower and Chon Kemin, overnight in guesthouse.
Day 2: Konorchek Canyon hike and Cholpon-Ata hot springs, overnight in guesthouse.
Day 3: Grigorievka and Semenovka Gorges to Karakol, overnight in guesthouse.
Day 4: Day hike in Karakol Gorge, overnight in guesthouse.
Day 5: Jeti Oguz and Kok Jaiyk Valley, overnight in yurt camp.
Day 6: Barskoon Waterfalls and Skazka Canyon to Bokonbaevo, overnight in guesthouse.
Day 7: Felt-making, Shatyly Panorama Hike and Ak Sai Canyon, overnight in guesthouse.
Day 8: Eagle-hunter demonstration and return to Bishkek, the tour finishes in the late afternoon (no lodging included).
Note: This itinerary can be modified in case of weather conditions and other unforeseen circumstances.
DAY 1: Arrival in Bishkek, to Burana Tower and Chon Kemin
Welcome to Bishkek, the capital city of Kyrgyzstan! Your adventure begins at 10 am as you meet the group at Ala Too Square in central Bishkek. After loading the van, drive for one hour to the Burana Tower, an ancient minaret that once stood near Balasagyn, an important city on the Silk Road. Explore the archaeological site and learn about the region’s trading history before sharing lunch with a local family.
Continue into the Chon Kemin Valley, a broad mountain landscape of meadows, rivers and forested slopes. After checking in at the family-run guesthouse, there is time for a relaxed horse riding trip through the valley.
Meals included: Lunch, dinner.
Accommodation: Shared room in guesthouse.
Facilities: Electricity, Wi-fi, hot shower
Day 2: Chon Kemin to Konorchek Canyon and Cholpon Ata
After breakfast, drive to the trailhead for the Konorchek Canyon. The 8-km walk follows a dry riverbed between dramatic red sandstone walls before opening into a maze of eroded towers and ridges.
Continue towards Issyk Kul, one of the world’s largest alpine lakes. Follow its northern shore to Cholpon-Ata, check in at the guesthouse and relax in the nearby hot springs. The warm water is especially welcome after a cool spring day outdoors.
Meals included: Breakfast & lunch.
Accommodation: Shared room in guesthouse.
Facilities: Electricity, Wi-fi, hot shower
DAY 3: Grigorievka and Semenovka Gorges to Karakol
Travel along the northern side of Issyk Kul and turn into the neighbouring Grigorievka and Semenovka Gorges. Rivers, pine forest and snow-covered peaks make these valleys especially photogenic in spring. Depending on snow and road conditions, explore the most accessible sections on foot and stop at panoramic viewpoints.
Continue to Karakol, the cultural centre of the Issyk Kul region. The town combines Russian architecture, Dungan heritage and a strong mountain culture. In the evening, visit a local restaurant to taste dishes and specialities from the region.
Meals included: Breakfast & lunch.
Accommodation: Shared room in guesthouse.
Facilities: Electricity, Wi-fi, hot shower
DAY 4: Day hike in Karakol Gorge
Drive from Karakol to the entrance of Karakol Gorge for the longest hike (16 km) of the journey. The trail follows the river into the Tien Shan, passing pine forest, open slopes and views towards the glaciated mountains deeper in the valley.
The planned route leads to a waterfall before returning along the same trail. Snow, mud or high water can affect the route in spring, so the guide may adapt the hike. Return to Karakol for a second night at the guesthouse.
Meals included: Breakfast & lunch.
Accommodation: Shared room in guesthouse.
Facilities: Electricity, Wi-fi, hot shower
Day 5: Karakol to Jeti Oguz and Kok Jaiyk Valley
Leave Karakol for Jeti Oguz, known for the red sandstone cliffs called the Seven Bulls. Walk around the rock formations and hear the local legends connected to the valley before travelling farther into the mountains.
Continue towards the Kok Jaiyk Valley, a peaceful alpine landscape surrounded by forest and high peaks. Spend the night in a traditional shared yurt. The facilities are simple, but the setting and warm Kyrgyz hospitality make this one of the most memorable nights of the tour.
Meals included: Breakfast, lunch, dinner.
Accommodation: Shared yurt.
Facilities: Outdoor toilets.
Day 6: Barskoon Waterfalls and Skazka Canyon to Bokonbaevo
Follow the southern shore of Issyk Kul to Barskoon Gorge. Take a walk through the pine-covered valley towards its waterfalls. The precise route depends on trail and snow conditions, particularly during the April departure.
Continue to Skazka Canyon, also known as Fairytale Canyon. Wind and water have shaped the sandstone into ridges, towers and formations in shades of red, orange and yellow. After exploring the canyon on foot, travel to Bokonbaevo and settle into a family-run guesthouse.
Meals included: Breakfast, lunch & dinner.
Accommodation: Shared room in guesthouse.
Facilities: Electricity, Wi-fi, hot shower
Day 7: Felt making, Shatyly Panorama and Ak Sai Canyon
Begin the day with a local family of artisans and learn how traditional shyrdak felt carpets are made. Watch the process and take part in the workshop while hearing how felt remains connected to Kyrgyz nomadic life.
Drive into the foothills and walk to the Shatyly Panorama for wide views over Issyk Kul and the snow-covered mountains beyond. After lunch, explore Ak Sai Canyon, sometimes called the Valley of Forgotten Rivers. Its layered cliffs, dry gullies and quiet location create a striking contrast with the lake nearby.
Meals included: Breakfast, lunch & dinner.
Accommodation: Shared room in guesthouse.
Facilities: Electricity, Wi-fi, hot shower
Day 8: Eagle hunter demonstration and return to Bishkek
Before leaving the Issyk Kul region, meet a local eagle hunter and learn about the relationship between the hunter and the golden eagle. The demonstration offers insight into a tradition that has been passed through generations in Kyrgyzstan.
Drive back to Bishkek with a lunch stop along the way. You’ll arrive in the city at around 17h00. Those who wish can join an optional farewell dinner in Bishkek.
Most international flights leave early in the morning. You can spend the evening in Bishkek before travelling to the airport or book an additional night and fly the following day. Accommodation in Bishkek is not included, but recommendations are provided after booking.
Meals included: Breakfast, lunch.
Avoid scheduling a tightly timed flight on the final day. The earliest departure time should be around 10 pm. Mountain roads and traffic can delay the planned arrival, and an additional night in Bishkek is a safe option before an international departure. I can help organizing your accommodation in Bishkek if needed.
TOur Costs
Price for the 8-day Kyrgyzstan Spring Tour: €1600 per person
Departure is guaranteed from 4 people on.
What’s included in this price?
- English-speaking tour leader
- All transportation: van with experienced driver
- All accommodation mentioned in the itinerary (shared rooms)
- All meals mentioned in the itinerary
- All activities and entrance fees for the sites mentioned in the itinerary
What’s not included in this price?
- International airfares to and from Kyrgyzstan
- Airport transfer to and from the airport (you’ll receive an info guide with detailed information on how to get from and to the airport)
- Visa fees if applicable
- Medical or travel insurance (mandatory to join this tour). I recommend SafetyWing, HeyMondo or IATI Backpacker if you want a good insurance provider (in case you don’t have one yet).
- Accommodation in Bishkek on Day 8 (you’ll receive recommendations in the info guide upon booking)
- Dinners in Cholpon-Ata, Karakol and Bishkek (we want to leave you the option to choose your own meal those evenings)
- Alcoholic beverages and soft drinks
- Personal expenses (such as souvenirs, snacks,…)
- Optional activities not mentioned in the itinerary
FAQ: WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW about THE Kyrgyzstan Spring TOUR
In case you have more questions about this tour, don’t hesitate to contact me.
Booking & Cancellation
Confirm your participation with a deposit of €350 per person. Deposits can be made via a standard bank transfer in EUR or via online transfer (Wise) in EUR or USD. As soon as I receive your booking, I’ll send out the payment details. Your booking is only confirmed once the deposit has been paid.
The remaining tour costs can be paid either in cash on the first day of the tour or via online transfer (fees might apply) at the latest three weeks before the start of the trip.
If you have any more questions or want more info, please contact me here!
Cancellation policy
If for any reason you can’t join this tour, we’ll refund your deposit – minus €100 administrative costs – if you cancel at the latest 3 months before the start date of the tour.
In case we have to cancel this tour due to unforeseen circumstances beyond our control (pandemic, political reasons, natural disasters,…), or not enough bookings, you’ll receive a full refund of the tour costs (minus transaction costs). Flight costs, visa costs, insurance and other personal expenses are not reimbursed. We’re not responsible for and therefore don’t refund any flight cancellations and/or flight expenses.
Reviews Journal of Nomads Tours in partnership with E2 Travel
Below are reviews from travelers who joined previous Journal of Nomads tours in partnership with E2 Travel. You can also find them on Google Reviews.
I was happy with all the events and activities we attended, including the felt-making workshop. I must admit that it was not something I was particularly looking forward to beforehand, but I ended up thoroughly enjoying it and was very happy to have taken part.
Our guides were local people-and cheers to working with locals! They were such a kind, welcoming and accommodating team. They made our group feel completely at ease, and what a group we were! We often sang together, and there was a happy and fun atmosphere throughout the entire tour. Although we came from different countries and backgrounds, we all got along wonderfully and shared so many great moments.
The accommodation exceeded my expectations, which I was obviously very happy about.
The World Nomad Games are a truly unique spectacle that everyone interested in culture, sportsmanship and history should experience at least once. They were definitely one of the highlights of the tour. The opening ceremony was probably one of the most beautiful events I have ever witnessed.
Kyrgyzstan means raw nature, immense landscapes, countless mountains, wild horses, gentle animals and kind people.
I cannot emphasise enough how happy I am that I joined this tour. Thank you, Cynthia, and the entire wonderful team in Kyrgyzstan-you guys rock!”
Planning a trip to Kyrgyzstan can feel overwhelming, but from the very beginning, Cynthia was incredibly helpful, accommodating, and kind. She made the whole process so easy and worked with us to include everything we wanted to see, while putting together the best possible itinerary.
We honestly weren’t sure what to expect from Kyrgyzstan, but every experience completely exceeded our expectations. From the beautiful scenery to the accommodation and the wonderful guides, everything was fantastic.
Cynthia was always quick to respond to every question I had, and she did so with so much patience and kindness. You can really tell how much care goes into creating these experiences.
I would absolutely recommend these tours to anyone visiting Kyrgyzstan. We had an unforgettable trip and couldn’t have asked for a better experience!”
In Kazakhstan, Bakhtiar-also known as Bruce-made every day really enjoyable. He was a wonderful guide and such a great person to travel with. We were genuinely sad to say goodbye to him after four days.
The Ala Kul trek was one of the most memorable experiences I have ever had. The scenery speaks for itself, but sharing it with like-minded travellers made it even more special. We were guided by hardworking local people who kept us safe, well-fed and supported throughout the trek.
Thank you to Cynthia, Emir and everyone else in Central Asia who helped make this such an amazing experience.”
Although every day had a plan, the journey never felt overly touristy. There was enough flexibility to make sure we had the best possible experience.
Emir is incredibly knowledgeable and personable, and he made everyone feel welcome. He also has a great sense of humour. He and the driver made the perfect team, which is especially important when travelling through Kyrgyzstan.
I learned so much and got even more out of the trip than I had hoped for. I would recommend Emir to anyone. Thank you, Emir!”
Travelling through both countries with such exceptional guides made the experience particularly memorable. Our time in Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan could not have been better, and I would highly recommend this tour.”
The landscapes were spectacular, and the horse-riding experience was highly memorable—although we did bring home some sore bottoms as souvenirs! What really made the journey an all-time favourite, however, was the hospitality of our hosts and the excellence of our guides.
They looked after us incredibly well and were always ready to help. They made the entire journey as enjoyable and fun as possible. They were also wonderful with our boys, from playful horseback wrestling and fun riding to jokes and fascinating conversations.
By the end of the trip, it felt as though we were saying goodbye to good friends.
A special mention must go to Goga, who is a real asset to the team and a first-class tour leader. We will recommend this trip to everyone and hope to return one day.”
On the first day, they took us on an additional excursion to Kol Tor Lake. It was beautiful and virtually free of tourists, so we enjoyed some peaceful time beside the lake by ourselves. Later, local people invited us to try fermented horse milk and offered us some sweets, which became a lovely spontaneous cultural experience.
We stayed at a wonderful yurt camp situated away from the busier part of the Kok Kiya Valley. It gave us the special feeling that we were almost alone in this immense landscape.
The following day, we enjoyed a relaxed hike to Kel Suu Lake. We had plenty of time to take in the beautiful views and enjoy lunch near the lake.
I would recommend this experience to anyone travelling to Kyrgyzstan.”
We had a fantastic guide arranged by Emir who was incredibly likeable, sociable and funny. We saw so much, and he brought us to some truly beautiful places. It was the ultimate way to discover Kyrgyzstan.
We also had an amazing driver who not only drove extremely well but was wonderful company throughout the journey.
I’m very grateful for this experience and for the lovely group with whom I got to share it.”
The tour was well planned, and Emir could not have been friendlier or more knowledgeable. His calm and professional approach helped everything run smoothly despite the busy circumstances.
I would highly recommend him for any tour of Kyrgyzstan.”
The food and accommodation were great, and we got to see so many beautiful highlights of Kyrgyzstan. We also experienced the incredible spectacle of the World Nomad Games, which made the journey even more special.
I can’t wait to return to this amazing country!”
The horses used during the riding tour appeared well cared for and well trained. They were also suitable for beginners without previous horse-riding experience. The surroundings were beautiful, and I would happily recommend the tour.
Afterwards, we joined another tour to Kel Suu, including the necessary transfers.
Communication with Cynthia was excellent, and she was consistently helpful. This was particularly reassuring and appreciated as a solo traveller.”
I normally travel solo and was therefore slightly nervous about joining an organised tour. However, it turned out to be a wonderful first group-tour experience.
The itinerary would have been very difficult, if not impossible, for me to organise and complete independently. I really appreciated having everything arranged while never feeling as though I was taking part in a typical package tour. We encountered very few other travellers in most of the places we visited.
I would recommend this journey to experienced travellers who are comfortable occasionally staying in simple accommodation and who appreciate the opportunity to experience local life.”
Our driver was very experienced with the difficult off-road sections. His careful driving meant that we felt comfortable and safe throughout the entire journey. It was an excellent experience.”
Communication before the tour was also clear and helpful. Everything had been arranged properly, allowing us to concentrate fully on the trek and enjoy the mountain experience.
I loved it.”
The programme was active without feeling overwhelming, and the journey introduced us to an impressive variety of places in Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan.
Please don’t think about it for too long-book the trip and go!”
The mountain landscapes were spectacular, and the trek offered a challenging but incredibly rewarding way to experience this part of Kyrgyzstan.
Our guide Joomart was fantastic and made the journey even more enjoyable. We had a wonderful time with him throughout the trek.”
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