Bishkek to Shamshy

Bishkek - The trip begins with a pickup from any location in Bishkek, followed by a transfer to Shamshi Gorge (120 km).

Shamshy - After reaching Shamshi Gorge, we’ll have lunch at the local Yurt Inn, which also serves as our accommodation for the night. Take a stroll in the nearby pine forest, immersing yourself in nature and preparing for the exciting journey ahead.

Before the expedition, you’ll be introduced to the wildlife of Central Asia by our zoologist, and develop a keen eye for the subtle traces of life that may intertwine with your path along the journey.

Shamshy Nature Reserve

Shamshy to Sarala-Saz

Karakol River Valley

Sook River through Buchuk Pass

Jumgal Valley

Kilemchhe Jailoo

Kilemche - After breakfast, we cross the Kyzart Pass (2664 meters) and venture into the vast Kyzyl-Kiya Jailoo, a sprawling, flat grassland.
After lunch, we proceed and reach the Chaar-Archa Pass at an altitude of 3061 m to descend into the scenic Chaar-Archa Valley. Riding across the surrounding hills, we finally reach Kilemche Jailoo. The name Kilemche means “carpet”. The symphony of hills with their subtle shadings resembles the intricate patterns of a felt carpet. The valley boasts a gently flowing river and enchanting meadows adorned with herbs and flowers such as arnica, edelweiss, and gentian. In winter, some nomadic families even reside on farms within the valley. Eventually, these shepherds move on to the summer pastures of Song-Kul Lake.

Song-Kul Lake

Song Kol Lake - This day we embark on a morning climb to Jalgyz Karagai Pass (3400 meters), ascending over the Song-Kol Mountains and descending into the lake’s basin. The ascent rewards us with breathtaking views of last night’s campsite, Kilemche Jailoo, and as we make our way down the slopes on the other side, Song-Kol gradually reveals its splendour. Closing in, the towering mountains on the far side of the lake—the peaks of Moldo Too (4185 m)—rise higher and higher. Getting down to the basin, the lake fills our field of view; we reach our final destination. After a satisfying lunch, we follow the lakeshore to a local yurt camp. We’ll spend the evening immersed in the rich culture and hospitality of the shepherds, enjoying meals and a comfortable night in their warm yurt beds.

Leaving the Lake behind

Kyzart - This is our last day of trekking before leaving our “nomadic lifeway” behind. Wake up before sunrise and go on a chilly walk in the morning steppe around the lake. This is the perfect time to capture the essence of this ancient place on camera. We may even get a chance to see some wildlife activity.

After having breakfast in the yurt, we saddle the horses and start our way back to Kyzart village. Reaching Kyzart after a few hours, the host family will make us a meal to recharge. Children in Kyzart are curious and lively, you might get a chance to improvise and play games with them.

We’ll have lunch in a local restaurant (this is not included in the price).

Back to Bishkek

Bishkek - Today, we’re heading back to the capital for a well-deserved rest after this intensive nomadic experience. If the group wants to, we can stop at interesting locations along the way and have a traditional lunch in a restaurant (not included in the price).

• Camping gear
• Lunch
• Dinner
• Breakfast
• Accommodation

Embark on a 10-day nomad horse trekking expedition through the breathtaking Tian Shan Mountains showcasing the stunning landscapes and rich nomadic culture of Kyrgyzstan. Starting from the Shamshy Nature Sanctuary, home to diverse alpine wildlife - including a breeding snow leopard population -, through the yurt camps of Sarala-Saz - the “Yellow Swamp” -, to the shore steppes of Song-Kol Lake, this trip offers a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Throughout the expedition, nights are usually spent in heated tents or in the yurts of shepherd families along our path. The load will be carried by our horse caravan. You won’t need former experience in riding, these mountain horses are well-trained and you’ll soon get the hang of it. Shepherd families will invite us for traditional meals, but we’ll also be cooking under the open sky in hidden valleys and river basins.

Tours start with a minimum of 4 people.
Contact our team to request a private group tour or info on joining other travellers.

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.