2 Day Private Tour in Issyk Kul Lake of South Coast

Nestled in the heart of Kyrgyzstan, the picturesque Issyk Kul Lake region beckons adventurers seeking a captivating blend of culture and outdoor exploration. This private 2-day tour promises to unveil the breathtaking beauty of the area, from the historic Burana Tower to the stunning Konorchek Canyons. Guests will have the opportunity to experience traditional yurt life, savor local cuisine, and witness the thrilling art of eagle hunting. But the real allure lies in the chance to discover the enchanting Skazka Canyon, where the true essence of this remarkable destination is revealed.

This experience made our list of the 3 Best 2 Day Tours In Bishkek.

Good To Know

• A 2-day private tour that explores the Issyk Kul Lake region, including visits to Burana Tower, Konorchek Canyons, Skazka Canyon, and a traditional yurt camp.
• The tour offers a personalized experience with diverse activities, such as hiking, eagle hunting demonstrations, and culture.
• Accommodation in a traditional yurt camp provides an opportunity to experience Kyrgyz culture and connect with nature.
• The itinerary includes visits to UNESCO-listed historical sites, stunning natural landscapes, and unique cultural experiences.
• The tour includes transportation, meals, and admission tickets, ensuring a seamless and hassle-free adventure.

Tour Overview

The 2 Day Private Tour in Issyk Kul Lake of South Coast offers a comprehensive exploration of the stunning natural beauty and cultural richness of Kyrgyzstan’s Issyk Kul region.

Guests will embark on a two-day journey, beginning with a visit to the historic Burana Tower and a hike through the Konorchek Canyons.

Accommodation is provided in a traditional yurt camp, allowing for an immersive cultural experience.

The second day showcases the Skazka Canyon and an exciting eagle hunting demonstration in Ak Sai Village, culminating in a return to Bishkek.

With a private tour format, personalized attention, and diverse activities, this tour promises an unforgettable adventure in the heart of Central Asia.

Itinerary Highlights

Seamless pickup from Bishkek kicks off the 2-day adventure, leading travelers to the captivating Burana Tower – an 11th-century UNESCO heritage site.

Visitors can climb the tower and explore the museum for about 30 minutes. Next, the group embarks on a light hike through the stunning Konorchek Canyons, stopping for lunch at a roadside café.

The day culminates at the Bel Tam Yurt Camp, where guests can unwind, enjoy a delicious dinner, and experience a cozy overnight stay on the shores of Issyk Kul Lake.

On the second day, the group ventures to the otherworldly Skazka Canyon for a morning hike, then heads to Ak Sai Village to witness a thrilling eagle hunting demonstration and participate in archery.

After a picnic and short hike, the tour returns to Bishkek.

Group Size and Inclusions

Since this is a private tour, only your group participates, providing a personalized experience.

The tour includes the following:

• Dinner, breakfast, and 2 lunches to fuel your adventures.
• Pickup from your hotel in Bishkek to start the journey.
• Admission tickets to various historical and natural sites along the way.

With a dedicated tour just for your group, you can expect a seamless and tailored experience as you explore the stunning landscapes and cultural highlights of the Issyk Kul region over the course of 2 days.

Visiting Burana Tower

Burana Tower stands tall as a UNESCO-listed 11th-century minaret, inviting visitors to climb its 45 meters and explore the on-site museum.

The tower’s towering presence is a testament to the region’s rich history, offering a glimpse into the architectural prowess of the Karakhanid dynasty.

Guests can ascend the tower’s winding steps, taking in panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes.

Inside the museum, they’ll discover a collection of ancient artifacts, including carved tombstones and fragments of the original structure.

With just 30 minutes allotted for this stop, visitors can enjoy the tower’s captivating history before continuing their journey through the Issyk Kul region.

Exploring Konorchek Canyons

After visiting the historic Burana Tower, the tour continues with a light hike through the Konorchek Canyons.

Nestled in the foothills of the Tian Shan mountains, these dramatic canyons offer a scenic respite. Hikers can enjoy:

1. Towering red rock formations carved by erosion over millennia.
2. Opportunities to spot wildlife like mountain goats scaling the cliffs.
3. A picnic lunch at a roadside cafe, providing a chance to savor local cuisine.

The hike showcases the region’s natural beauty and provides a chance to stretch one’s legs before arriving at the yurt camp for the night.

Staying at Bel Tam Yurt Camp

At the end of the day’s adventures, the tour arrives at the Bel Tam Yurt Camp, nestled along the wild shores of Issyk Kul Lake. Guests can unwind and take in the serene natural surroundings.

The camp offers traditional Kyrgyz yurts as accommodation, providing a truly immersive cultural experience. As the sun sets, guests gather around the campfire for a delicious dinner of local cuisine and enjoy the tranquility of the lakeside setting.

It’s a chance to disconnect from the outside world and connect with the stunning landscape. The overnight stay at the Bel Tam Yurt Camp is a highlight of the two-day tour, offering a unique and memorable experience.

Discovering Skazka Canyon

The next morning, the group sets out to explore the captivating Skazka Canyon, also known as the "Fairy Tale Canyon."

This geological wonder, carved by the elements over centuries, features striking red, yellow, and white hues that create a surreal, almost dreamlike landscape.

The hike through the canyon offers three key highlights:

1. Towering rock formations and sculpted walls that create a maze-like trail to navigate.
2. Panoramic views from the canyon’s rim, providing a bird’s-eye perspective of the vibrant colors and unique shapes below.
3. Opportunities to spot local wildlife, including birds of prey and small mammals, thriving in the arid environment.

Witnessing Eagle Hunting

After exploring the captivating Skazka Canyon, the group travels to the nearby Ak Sai Village, where they witness a thrilling display of traditional eagle hunting. The villagers demonstrate their centuries-old skill, showcasing the majestic birds’ agility and strength as they swoop down to catch prey. Visitors even have the opportunity to participate in archery, seeing the local culture. Following the exhibition, the group enjoys a picnic and takes a short hike, before cooling off with a refreshing swim.

Activity	Duration
Eagle Hunting Demonstration	30 minutes
Archery Participation	30 minutes
Picnic	1 hour
Short Hike	30 minutes
Swimming	45 minutes

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Customize the Itinerary to Suit My Interests?

Yes, the tour can be customized to suit your interests. The tour provider offers a flexible itinerary, allowing you to adjust the activities and destinations based on your preferences for an enhanced, personalized experience.

Is Any Special Equipment Required for the Hiking Activities?

The hiking activities require proper footwear like hiking boots or sturdy sneakers. Warm layers, sun protection, and water are also recommended. Trekking poles may be useful for navigating the uneven terrain in the canyons.

Are There Opportunities to Interact With Local Families?

Yes, the tour includes opportunities to interact with local families. Visitors can witness an eagle hunting demonstration and participate in archery activities in Ak Sai Village, providing a chance to engage with the local community.

How Difficult Are the Hiking Trails in the Canyons?

The hiking trails in the canyons are moderate in difficulty, suitable for most fitness levels. Guests can expect some elevation changes and uneven terrain, but the experienced guides will lead the way and ensure everyone’s safety and enjoyment.

Can I Extend the Tour to Include Additional Days or Activities?

The tour operator allows customers to customize the itinerary and extend the duration of the tour. They can add extra days or activities like horseback riding, fishing, or visiting additional historical sites in the region.

Sum Up

This captivating 2-day private tour in the Issyk Kul Lake region offers an immersive cultural experience and outdoor adventure. Travelers will explore historic landmarks, hike through stunning canyons, spend a night in a traditional yurt camp, and witness a thrilling eagle hunting demonstration, all while surrounded by the breathtaking natural beauty of this picturesque landscape.