The Ultimate Adventure Through Kyrgyzstan
Journey through this incredible land of nomads, yurts, eagles and vast steppes, venturing to remote Tash Rabat along the ancient Silk Road
What's Included?
Activities & Certified Guides
All itinerary activities with local, expert, English-speaking guidesAccommodation
2 nights in a comfortable city hotel and 6 nights in yurt campsMeals
All breakfasts, lunches and dinners throughout the tripTransfers
All airport and local transfers, plus luggage transfers throughoutEquipment, Permits & Fees
All equipment for kayaking, cycling and horseriding plus all permits and entry feesSmall Like-minded Groups
Solo-friendly by design, join our small n’ sociable groups of up to 14 like-minded, active and outdoorsy people…
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What's it like?
Experience the great Kyrgyz wilderness as you kayak the majestic Issyk Kul Lake, hike the red-hued Skazka Canyon and cross Song Kul's vast steppe on horseback
Get off the beaten path as you trek from Tash Rabat to the isolated Panda Pass (4025m), among the mountains of Tian Shan
Embrace the simple nomadic lifestyle as you bunk down in cosy yurts nestled in remote spots beneath a blanket of stars
This alternative to our best-selling trekking trip is ideal for those wishing to experience a wider variety of activities while exploring Kyrgyzstan
Key Information
Day 1
Welcome to Kyrgyzstan
If you arrive on one of the early flights this morning, meet your driver at the airport and hop on short transfer to your central hotel in Bishkek. Join your guide and fellow adventurers for a welcome briefin, then head into the city on foot to grab your first tasty traditional Kyrgyz lunch. Later, walk through the huge Osh Bazaar and the pleasant city parks, then return to your hotel to freshen up. Tonight, you'll gather again for a welcome dinner offering a mix of the best local dishes and drinks – then get a good night's sleep ahead of your epic overland adventure through Kyrgyzstan.
Day 2
Kayak to your yurt camp on the Issyk Kul lakeshore
Driving
Kayaking
Leave Bishkek behind and hit the road towards the wild southern shore of Issyk Kul, the second-biggest mountain lake in the world situated at an altitude of 1607m. Immensely large, unfathomably deep, and totally out-of-this-world, Issyk Kul is without doubt one of the most unique locations on earth – you'll see red sand beaches, pristine clear water, and snowy mountain views all in one place. Reach a hidden cove and tuck into a picnic lunch, before meeting your kayaking guide for an introduction and safety briefing ahead of your afternoon kayak session. Hit the water and paddle along the scenic shores, with the backdrop of high peaks: Kungoi Ala-Too ('sunny slopes') to the north and Terskei Ala-Too ('shady slopes') to the south. Eventually, you'll reach Tong Beach, the location of the authentic locally run yurt camp which will be your home for the next two nights. Relax on the pristine sands, perhaps enjoying a swim just steps away from your own lake-front yurt, before tucking into a delicious Kyrgyz dinner with your fellow travellers.
Day 3
Nomads, eagles, waterfalls and the epic Skazka canyon
Hiking
Driving
Grab breakfast then prepare for a busy day exploring some of the best highlights of Issyk Kul's southern shore. First, take a short transfer to the picturesque pasturelands of Turasu, where you'll meet one of the region's few remaining eagle hunters for a fascinating demonstration of how he uses his eagles to hunt. Next, head towards Barskoon, one of the most magnificent alpine valleys of Kyrgyzstan. Refuel with a tasty picnic before a short but steep hike through the famous Tien Shan fir trees and wonderful fragrant pastures dotted with edelweiss flowers and barberry bushes, to reach the impressive Barskoon Falls. Back at the vehicles, prepare for a dramatic change of scenery as travel from verdant valleys to the striking red shades of Skazka Canyon (also known as Fairytale Canyon), with colourful sedimentary rocks which seem to be from another planet. You'll be back to your yurt camp in time for dinner and perhaps even a sunset swim and drink by the lake.
Day 4
Along the Silk Road to remote Tash Rabat (3150m)
Hiking
Driving
After breakfast you'll hit the road, crossing the scenic Naryn region in the heart of Kyrgyzstan. Although you'll be in the vehicle for most of today, prepare to be blown away by the scenery you'll encounter along the way – expect towering peaks, vast plains, huge swathes of woodland, high passes and remote villages as you go. There'll be a few stops for you to stretch your legs such as Kyzyl Tuu village, where you'll meet a family who has been crafting yurts for generations, as well as Kochkor, where you can learn about the Shyrdak felt carpets at the local women’s cooperative (a traditional craft that's on the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage list). Eventually, you'll reach the remote and isolated site of Tash Rabat, the highest caravanserai in the world at 3150m, nestled in a beautiful valley. This 15th-century monument used to welcome a multitude of Silk Road merchants and travellers and you can visit the original network of small rooms that served as bedrooms, prison cells, pantries and prayer halls. Acclimatise with a short hike to a panoramic viewpoint above the valley before settling in your simple but cosy yurt camp, which is managed by a herder’s family. Tuck into a warm meal then fall asleep in the peace of this remote corner of the world.
Day 5
Epic trek to Panda Pass (4025m) at the border with China
Trekking
Sauna
Wake early and fuel up for the most challenging day of this trip. Climbing up to a 4025m-high pass is no easy task, but the reward and views will be worth the effort. You'll be hiking for around 12km one way, returning along the same path and covering the same distance on the way back. Leaving Tash Rabat caravanserai, the trail first weaves through verdant pasturelands and as you gradually gain altitude, the scenery changes to a barren, rocky environment – the high mountain kingdom of yaks, marmots, wolves and vultures. The final section is the biggest haul as you'll trek up a steep incline on loose scree for about 45 minutes before you reach Panda Pass. Soak in the stunning views – on a clear day, you'll spot Chatyr Kul Lake and China – then retrace your way back along the ancient path once walked by ancient Silk Road traders. At the end of this long day, relax and soothe your sore legs with a natural hot sauna that will be prepared for you back at the yurt camp.
Day 6
Cycling, kayaking and stargazing at Song Kul Lake
Cycling
Kayaking
Driving
Rest your legs this morning as you enjoy the drive south towards Song Kul, the nomadic gem of Kyrgyzstan. This high mountain steppe is surrounded by snow-capped mountains with a pristine lake at its centre. Sprawling meadows and numerous 4000m peaks looming above are all part of the spectacular scenery you'll find here, resembling places like Alaska, Mongolia or Iceland. During summer, nomads from the nearby regions move their yurts and livestock there, transforming Song Kul into a lively local hub where you'll witness locals living side-by-side with their flocks amidst total wilderness. By afternoon you'll be out kayaking on the blue lake and pedalling scenic cycling trails among the verdant pasturelands (if you prefer to take it easy, you're welcome to simply soak up the beauty of the lakeshore and relax in this wonderful landscape – but do note that the water is usually very cold for swimming, between 10 and 15°C). You'll spend the next two nights in a stunning (and award-winning!) yurt camp, which combines Kyrgyz style with comfort in unity with nature. In the late evening, if it's a clear night, prepare to witness one of the starriest skies you’ll ever see!
Day 7
Horseback riding with Song Kul's nomads
Horse Riding
If you experience horse riding only once in your lifetime, then it should be at Song Kul Lake. The nomadic atmosphere of this place, the dazzling vistas, plus the culture of the local herders are all hard to beat so we recommend giving today's activity a go, even if this is your first time. Once the horses are saddled, you'll ride through golden hills, zig-zagging through stony outcrops and crossing the rolling pastures overlooking the vast waters of Song Kul. Nomads, conquerors, and Silk Road merchants have traversed these landscapes for millennia and it almost feels like nothing has changed since. There are no paved roads, only grazing animals and the occasional yurt. You'll be out for around 5-6 hours with your horses and guides, enjoying a picnic with an epic view of the lake. In the afternoon, look for old petroglyphs made on the scattered rocks by the ancestors of Kyrgyz shepherds centuries ago. Back at the camp, relax over a dinner around the bonfire with music and games.
Day 8
Journey across the mountains and spa time in Bishkek
Driving
Sauna
Leave Song Kul after breakfast for the drive back to Bishkek city, stopping along the way to snap some last photos of the breathtaking landscapes of Kyrgyzstan. Once in the city, you're in for a treat – head to a modern spa centre for some well-deserved pampering, where you can enjoy Russian saunas, hammam, a salt cave, pools and more (entry to the spa complex is included and you'll be divided by gender, but massages and other special treatments are to be paid additionally). Refreshed and rejuvenated, join your group and guide for a farewell dinner in town.
Day 9
Time to head home
Wave goodbye to Kyrgyzstan and head back to the airport in time for your flight home. Transfers to Bishkek Airport are included any time you choose to depart today.
The Area
Logistics
Starts
Manas International Airport, Bishkek
10:00 on Day 1
Ends
Manas International Airport, Bishkek
Any time on Day 9
Transfers
Airport transfers are included for arrivals at any time on or before Day 1, and at any time on or after Day 9 (provided you have supplied your arrival and departure details in advance).
Please note there will be a welcome briefing at the hotel in Bishkek at 11:30am on Day 1 followed by lunch and a city orientation tour, so please aim to arrive before then. If this is not possible, you can join the group later that day and your guide can brief your separately.
Travel options
There are regular flights to Kyrgyzstan from major airports across the UK and Europe, usually with a brief stopover in Instanbul.
Day 1
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Day 2 – Day 7
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Day 8
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Day 9
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
What is the food like?
Traditional Kyrgyz food revolves around bread, meat and various dairy products. The preparation techniques and major ingredients have been strongly influenced by the nation's ancient, nomadic way of life, so many of the cooking techniques are conducive to the long-term preservation of food. If you get the chance, be sure to join in with the cooking and learn more about the local specialities. Start your mornings with a hearty breakfast featuring warm porridge (oatmeal), farm-fresh eggs, succulent sausages, freshly baked bread, sweet and tangy jams, and a selection of juicy, ripe fruits. For lunch, savour a packed feast including a flavourful sandwich accompanied by an assortment of local delicacies – think sun-dried fruits, crunchy nuts, and other regional treats. As the day winds down, experience traditional Kyrgyz cuisine at dinner, enjoying hearty stews, flavourful noodle dishes, and authentic soups. Each meal will be a celebration of local flavours and traditions, making your trip a true immersion in the culture and cuisine of this remarkable region.
As the local economy is traditionally based on animal rearing and breeding, vegetarianism is still largely unheard of. Your host can arrange vegetarian meals if requested, but please be aware that the variety of products and choice of meals may be more limited. For other dietary requirements (including vegan, gluten-intolerance and lactose-intolerance, which are difficult to cater for on this trip), please check with your host.
Strictly gluten-free (coeliac) diets in particular are a challenge to cater for, as many gluten-free alternatives (such as gluten-free bread) are not yet available in Kyrgyzstan. On this itinerary in particular, there are limited catering facilities whilst camping and staying in yurts and guesthouses, making it difficult to avoid cross-contamination of foods.
What is the accommodation like?
Bishkek
The first and final nights of the trip will be spent in Bishkek, usually at the comfortable 3-star Navat Hotel. Its central and convenient location makes it easy to explore the capital city. The hotel has a shared lounge, a spacious terrace and a bar. You'll stay in twin-share rooms equipped with a TV, fridge, air conditioning, hairdryer, tea set, telephone, safe, minibar, toiletries, slippers, bathrobe and towels. Free WiFi is available throughout. Occasionally, depending on availability, you may be staying at the 4-star Damas International instead – a modern hotel located in the centre of Bishkek. Your host will advise you of the details of your hotel in Bishek ahead of your departure.
Issyk Kul
Two nights will be spent in a simple but cosy beachfront yurt camp, right on the shores of Issyk Kul Lake. You'll usually stay at Bel Tam Seaside Yurt Camp, one of the best places to stay near the lake, which offers you the chance to experience the real Kyrgyzstan and get an insight into local life. This authentic accommodation is built with natural materials and although the twin-share yurts are basic, they'll feel cosy and comfortable. They come with heating, power and warm beds with big heavy blankets to snuggle up under at night. Bathroom facilities (including hot water, showers and eco-friendly toilets) can be found in the shared area of the camp. Breakfast is continental and traditional Kyrgyz cuisine is served for dinner in the common area, which also provides access to free WiFi. Time and weather permitting you'll also have the opportunity to relax or swim at the pristine and calming beach, just steps away from your yurt. Stargazing is also spectacular here, as there is very little light pollution. On a clear night, pull your blankets outside and settle down on the grass, watching for any shooting stars darting across the inky sky.
Tash Rabat
While in Tash Rabat you'll spend two nights in a remote yurt camp, hosted by Nazira and her family. Located in an idyllic and wonderfully remote spot at 3150m, you'll be only a few steps away from the historical caravansarai and surrounded by beautiful mountains. You'll stay in twin-share yurts decorated in traditional Kyrgyz style which come with bed frames, mattresses, bedding, a heater and carpet covering. There are also shared toilets and three dining yurts available to guests. Please note, due to the remoteness of this camp, facilities are a bit more basic here and there are no modern showers. Instead, you'll find a Russian banya, which is a wet sauna mixed with old-style bathrooms with buckets and a dipper. Breakfasts and dinners will be freshly prepared and cooked by the local owners, who source their products from local farmers and shepherds.
Song Kul
While in Song Kul you'll spend two nights at Nomad’s Dream Yurt Camp, offering a combination of traditional Kyrgyz authenticity with comfort. Open since 2019, the camp was awarded 'Best Yurt Camp in Kyrgyzstan' at the Kyrgyz Tourism Awards. The cosy twin-share yurts are equipped with sockets, lighting, door locks, a warm stove, wooden beds, thick mattresses and traditional-style bedding. The property also includes some outdoor seating areas by the fireplace or with panoramic views across the majestic blue lake, perfect for watching the amazing sunset or for stargazing at night. Traditional meals will be served in the common areas of the camp, which are equipped with comfortable chairs, benches, and tables. You'll also benefit from shared modern toilets and hot showers. Besides all this, washbasins are installed behind each yurt. The entire camp, including the yurts, is equipped with electricity powered by solar panels in the daytime, and generators in the evening. Due to the remoteness of this place, there is no mobile communication or WiFi, but the camp has a satellite phone in case of emergency.
Upgrades
For solo travellers looking for their own space, an optional private room can be booked on the two nights in Bishkek only, for an extra charge. This is not available during the six nights spent in the yurts. Please request this at the time of booking, as this is subject to availability.
This trip has been rated as Moderate
Overall, you can enjoy this trip if you have a good level of fitness and a sense of adventure. Although the itinerary is quite busy to make the most of the time in the country, all activities will be conducted at a leisurely pace and are not particularly challenging, except for the hike on Day 5.
An introductory training and safety briefing will be provided for the kayaking and cycling, so these are suitable for first-timers. The included horse riding is gentle and suitable for beginners who have not ridden before. The horse handlers and guide will be with you throughout the activity to assist you with mounting/dismounting and what to do in different scenarios.
On Day 3 there is a short but steep hike to reach the impressive waterfalls in the Barskoon Valley; whilst on Day 5, you'll be hiking for up to 8 hours/24km in total. The terrain on Day 5 is fairly easy to navigate and the ascent will be gradual, except for a short steep section on scree just before reaching the pass. You will be climbing a total of 1000m on this day and will reach a max altitude of approximately 4025m so the elevation will make the going harder than expected. There will be also plenty of time to stop and rest your legs and you will only need to trek with a small rucksack of essentials, but it is important to feel confident you have the stamina to hike for this number of hours. Alternative options are availble for those who are concerned about their ability and fitness to tackle this long day, such as the option to hire a horse ($50 per person) for extra support or to join an alternative, shorter, easier hike around Tash Rabat caravanserai. Please speak to your guide locally to discuss the options available in in detail. Overall, the itinerary has been designed to allow for enough acclimatisation before this hike, thus minimising the risk of altitude sickness. For further info, please read our FAQ.
Please note that although travelling distances in Kyrgyzstan are rather small, travelling times are long due to the poor road conditions. Tracks can be dusty or muddy but your comfortable 14-16 seater 4WD minibuses – along with some experienced drivers – will make the journey safe and as comfortable as it can be. The landscapes across Kyrgyzstan and the Silk Road are breathtaking and the driving sections of the itinerary will be very much a highlight of the trip.
What if i need to skip an activity?
Any of the activities can be skipped, so just speak to your guide locally if you wish to opt out of any of the included excursions.
What will I need to carry?
You will only need to carry a day pack with personal items such as food, water and extra layers during any of the activities. A vehicle will be with you for the duration of the trip, so any excess luggage or things not needed for the activity can be left there or at yurt camps where you stay overnight.
The trip is scheduled to run between June to September, when days are dry and warm and even hot in Bishkek and in the Ferghana Valley (35-40°C). Around Issyk Kul, days are warm (25-30°C) but evenings and nights are cooler (10°C). Above 3000m (in Song Kul and Tash Rabat), it's possible to experience the four seasons within one day, with the potential for freezing conditions during the night (although this is rare). Please ensure you come prepared with the appropriate kit and clothing (see Kit List below).
We’re still waiting to collect any reviews from other travellers on this trip. However, all our hosts go through an extensive vetting process to ensure that your adventure is awesome.
Enjoy 12.5% Off Outdoor Gear
In need of a few more items? All bookings receive a 12.5% discount to use at Cotswold Outdoor, Snow + Rock and Runner's Need.
What's included?
- All your kayaking and cycling equipment, plus binoculars for the stargazing, a picnic kit and helmet for horseback riding
What's available to hire?
- Hiking poles
What do I need to bring?
BAGS
- Duffel bag, rucksack or soft suitcase (80 litres)
- Daypack (20-30 litres)
- Waterproof liner/drybags for kitbag or rucksack
CLOTHES
- Mid-weight down jacket
- Waterproof and windproof jacket with hood
- Waterproof and windproof trousers or overtrousers
- Breathable wicking layers
- Thermals (wool/merino is best)
- Warm clothes for cool evenings (long trousers and hoodies/fleece)
- Warm hat
- Light gloves
- Buff or neck scarf
- Lightweight trousers/shorts/skirts/T-shirts
- Underwear and socks
- Swimwear
- Suitable UV-blocking sunglasses
- Sunhat
- Something to sleep in
- Waterproof hiking boots (worn-in)
- Sandals/Crocs
SLEEPING
- Cotton or silk sleeping bag liner (optional)
OTHER
- Headtorch
- Universal travel plug adapter
- Power bank or solar charger
- Passports (and visas)
- Travel insurance documents
- Ear plugs (recommended)
- Insect repellent
- Suncream (50+) and UV-protection lip balm
- Personal first-aid kit (inc. blister treatment)
- Personal items (biodegradable toiletries, sanitary wear etc)
- Quick-dry towel
- Alcohol hand-gel
- Headtorch or torch
- Reusable water bottle x2 litre
- Biodegradable wet-wipes
- Energy bars and snacks - read our article on Best Hiking Snacks
- Water purification tablets/treatment system (optional)
Hiking Poles
Payable Before Departure
Hiking Poles
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Double or Twin Room in Bishkek (per room)
Payable Before Departure
Double or Twin Room in Bishkek (per room)
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Single Room in Bishkek (per room)
Payable Before Departure
Single Room in Bishkek (per room)
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Optional Private Room Upgrade (2 nights only in Bishkek)
Payable Before Departure
Optional Private Room Upgrade (2 nights only in Bishkek)
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We partner with the World Land Trust to ensure this trip achieves Net-Zero emissions. We also support their Buy an Acre programme, helping local communities to buy and protect natural habitats in perpetuity.
What's the number?
It works out on average at 259kg of CO2 emissions per person, including all local transport, accommodation, food, activities, guides, staff and office operations.
The only thing it doesn’t include right now is flights and travel to the destination. We do make an overall estimate across all our customers separately, but as we don’t book flights, have customers from all corners of the world, and no way of reliably knowing their travel plans, we simply can’t include an individual number in the figure on display here. We’ve got a goal to fix that, so that when you book, there is a way to measure and mitigate the carbon emitted by your flight too.
But what does the number mean?
Yep, hard to picture eh? To give you an idea:
- Driving 1000miles/1609km would be approx. 281kg of CO2 in an average car (or 140.5kg per person if there was 2 of you in it).
- A return economy class flight London - New York would be approx. 1,619kg (1.66 tonnes) per person.
- 10 trees in a temperate forest are estimated to remove approx. 250kg of CO2 from the air in a period of 5-10 years.
What are we doing about it?
Our trips are relatively low-carbon by design, and we're working with all our hosts to develop long term carbon reduction plans. We partner with the World Land Trust to ensure this trip achieves Net-Zero emissions. We also support their Buy an Acre programme, helping local communities to buy and protect natural habitats in perpetuity, ensuring the protection of the reserve and its wildlife.
Want to know more?
Amazingly, no international travel company has ever publicly published their carbon measurements before, as far as we know. We believe that must change, quickly. So we’re openly sharing the method we used in the hope that other companies will be able to more easily follow suit and build on what we've done so far. You'll find it all here.
Yurts have been used by the Kyrgyz people for thousands of years as a way of adapting to their nomadic lifestyle, allowing them to move easily and quickly with their herds of livestock in search of grazing grounds. These portable, circular tents are still used nowadays throughout Kyrgyzstan by many families who wish to preserve their cultural heritage and remain connected to a more traditional way of life. On this trip you'll spend six nights in locally-run fixed yurt camps which have been adapted to tourist lodging. This experience not only enables you to experience the traditions, customs and hospitality of the Kyrgyz up close, but it also allows you to fully connect with nature and surrounding wilderness. Be aware, that most yurt camps in Kyrgyzstan are basic and you can’t compare it to a hotel or luxury glamping of any kind. Sometimes it can get a little cold at night (but a stove and warm blankets will always be available) and some yurts may smell a bit musty. Due to the remoteness of the location and as with any camping experience, you may also have to put up with the sound of insects, humans snoring, dogs barking or the hoofs of wild horses nearby – but this is nothing a good pair of ear plugs can't solve! You'll have access to shared toilets and hot showers throughout (except while in Tash Rabat, where only a wet sauna and bathrooms with buckets are available), and in order to maxmise the comfort of your sleep on this trip we have secured twin-share yurts throughout (instead of the standard multi-share rooms for up to six people). Overall, this type of accommodation totally adds to the adventure of Kyrgyzstan!
You'll have one English-speaking tour leader with you throughout the trip, as well as the drivers of the 4x4 vehicles used to transport you and your luggage. For groups above six people, you will also have an assistant guide. For the horse riding, kayaking and cycling activities, you will be joined by other local guides.
Your luggage will be transferred throghout the trip in the cars you'll travel on, but if you wish to leave any excess luggage in Bishkek, this can be left either at the start hotel (where you'll return on the final night of the trip) or alternatively, you can leave this with your host.
Should external factors (such as severe weather conditions) cause alterations to what is possible, then the ordering of the above itinerary, activity inclusions and durations and/or the exact number of days spent in each location may have to change. The local host will endeavour to ensure that any replacement activities are of a similar style.
A drinking water dispenser will be available throughout the whole trip an carried in the vehicles you travel on so please bring some refillable bottles.
The overlanding style of this trip means there are a few long drives. This style of travel allows you to see the best of Kyrgyzstan in the time available, including accessing some remote areas and incredible locations for experiencing the wild natural environment and meeting local communities. The driving is undertaken in large, comfortable 14-16 seater 4WD minibuses, plus a support car to transport the main luggage and equipment. The longer journeys will be broken up with multiple stops and you'll also enjoy two consecutive nights in most places, thus avoiding having to pack and move accommodation each day.
Marta Marinelli, raised in Italy’s serene Prosecco Hills, dreamt of global adventures, inspired by her father's travel stories. Her passion evolved into a career, backed by a decade of studies including degrees in international tourism and destination management. She’s worked in the adventure travel sector since 2012, living in Italy, the UK, and now sunny Portugal.
Over twenty years, Marta has explored over 60 countries, visiting remote areas like Ghana, Rwanda, Sao Tome and Principe, Haiti and Nepal’s Upper Mustang region. As a Senior Adventure Expansion Manager at Much Better Adventures, she focuses on creating life-changing experiences, ranging from multi-activity adventures, challenging treks to ultimate adventures in iconic places. She loves the challenge of finding the best local adventure hosts around the world, collaborating on adventures that offer genuine immersion, pushing beyond the beaten path and working on exclusive itineraries that challenge your comfort zone.
What makes her tick? Enabling people to live adventure-rich lives while positively impacting and empowering local communities around the world, generating sustainable opportunities for both the host, guides, community, and the environment.
Tips are not included in the trip cost. These are entirely at your discretion but there is an expectation to tip for good service. Your guide will help with advice, however we suggest the below as a guideline per person:
USD 30 per person for the main guide USD 25 per person for the support guide USD 20 per person for the drivers USD 15 per person for the activity guides
Of course, you are free to tip more or less, and the amount should be reflective of your perception of service and quality – a tip is not compulsory and should only be given when you receive excellent service.
This trip visits locations at or above 2500m. At this altitude some people may experience symptoms associated with Altitude Sickness, also known as Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS). Previous experience at high altitude is not necessarily an indicator of future performance. Your guide(s) are trained to mitigate the risks associated with altitude, by carefully managing the rate of ascent and the intensity of the activity, and to provide the appropriate support response should someone feel ill during the trip. Should you experience health issues during your trip you should inform your guide immediately so the proper care can be provided. Owing to the nature of this trip, it is essential that your personal travel insurance policy provides cover up to the maximum altitude visited on this trip as well as emergency medical evacuation by helicopter.
There are cultural differences in attitudes towards horses in Kyrgyzstan when compared with the West. The use of horses as working animals is firmly ingrained in Kyrgyz custom and tradition, so whilst they are an important part of life here, they are generally not petted by their owners nor given names. Despite being working animals, the horses do spend the majority of their time roaming free on the green pasturelands.
Our host takes the welfare of the animals very seriously, only working with families who ensure their horses are not exploited. The horses you encounter on this trip will only be used for one excursion or one group per day, so that they do not become injured, exhausted or overworked. Additionally, our host is certified by Travelife, who include animal welfare as a criteria for certification.
Yes, usually the maximum weight per person is 95kg.
While at Issyk Kul you'll be provided with comfortable tandem touring kayaks, which come with foot-controlled rudder steering and two cushioned seats with adjustable backrests (maximum weight per person: 95kg). At Song Kul, you'll kayak on double sit-on-top kayak with a see-through bottom (maximum weight per person: 95kg).
You'll be provided with cross-country mountain bikes (usually Raleigh R-100, medium frame).
Sure can! Over 70% of our travellers travel solo, it’s a great way to meet like-minded people.
Our team of Adventure Hunters co-create exclusive adventures which are run by highly vetted, specialist hosts. The trip is run by our trusted host partner in the destination. We only work with independent, local, in-destination experts who know the very best places to explore and how to stay safe. Read more information about the local teams we partner with. You’ll be introduced to the host straight after making a booking via the Much Better Adventures platform.
Much Better Adventures refer to the UK Government’s official travel advice when designing trips and monitoring trip operations. We recommend that all customers are familiar with the practical information provided on the Government’s FCDO website, where current travel advice can be found by searching for the applicable destination(s).
For customers joining this trip from other international destinations – please also read the official travel advice applicable to your country of residence/origin, as this may differ.
Our recommended travel insurance provider is Campbell Irvine.
Travel insurance is compulsory for all of our adventures and you are required to provide your policy information before departing.
Your insurance should include adequate protection for overseas medical treatment, evacuation/repatriation, your baggage and equipment and the specific activities involved on your adventure. We also strongly recommend it includes cancellation and curtailment insurance, should you be unable to join your trip for specific reasons such as illness.
We fully endorse Campbell Irvine as their insurance offers all of the above, so get in touch with them or call on 020 7938 1734 to get your insurance sorted. We suggest that you book travel insurance as soon as you book your adventure, just to cover you for any last-minute life changes. We know you’re an active lot and injuries do happen!
We recommend checking out the country-specific information and also talking to a travel nurse.
We automatically convert prices from the local currency that a host receives to your chosen currency. We update our exchange rates on a daily basis so this does mean that prices displayed on the site are subject to currency fluctuations, which is why you may see them change over time.
If you wish to change the currency you pay in, head to the bottom of the page.
All of our group adventures are specially designed for adults to enjoy (18+) as we want these adventures to bring together outdoorsy people who are truly like-minded. Children can be accommodated on some private departures.
You're always in good company on one of our adventures.
Our trips are typically made up of a mixture of solo travellers and small groups of 2 or 3 friends, with most in their 30s-50s.
Our sociable adventures are solo-friendly by design and naturally attract outdoorsy people with a shared mindset; a love for adventure, a desire to push themselves and meet awesome, like-minded people along the way.
It’s this camaraderie that has so often turned a great adventure into a life-changing one.
Don't just take our word for it:
- 95% of people rate the group dynamics on our trips 5/5
- 90% of people recommend joining a trip to make new friends
- 75% of people have met people on our trips that they would now consider friends
See here for more info about the Much Better Adventures tribe.
Interested in a more exclusive experience? Opt for a 'Private Group' through the dates and prices tab to book this adventure for just you and your chosen companions.
Explore our range of over 200 worldwide adventures
Whatever your mood, we’ve got it covered.
We've got your back
Guaranteed to run
All our trips are now guaranteed to run. Once you’ve booked your spot you can immediately make your travel arrangements, no uncertainty, no hanging about (excludes 'request to book' departures). Full details
Flexible payments
Secure your spot with the minimum deposit and pay off the remaining balance in as many instalments as you like, with no interest or fees. Full details
Happiness Guarantee
We’re so confident you’ll have an amazing time we’ll put our money on it. Full details
Full financial protection
To give you complete peace of mind we’re backed by ABTOT, ABTA and ATOL memberships. Full details
Tried & Trusted
We’re rated ‘Excellent’ on Trustpilot with over 1000 verified trip reviews averaging 4.8/5.
Connect before you go
You'll be invited to join a WhatsApp group to get to know each other before your big adventure together. Full details
DEPARTURE DATES
Saturday 7th June 2025
to Sunday 15th June 2025
Saturday 21st June 2025
to Sunday 29th June 2025
