International Multi-day Tour

Kyrgyzstan Active Adventure

Soaring peaks, vast mountain pastures and nomadic traditions stretching back centuries- Kyrgyzstan is one of the world's great undiscovered destinations. This 12-day adventure takes you right to its heart!

Destination Kyrgyzstan

Duration 12 Days

Price From $4390

Departs 30 Aug 2027

Group Size 14 Max

Overview

Explore Kyrgyzstan with AW

From vast mountain pastures and enduring nomadic traditions to ancient Silk Road history and landscapes that stretch to the horizon, discover the very best of Kyrgyzstan on this unforgettable 12-day adventure.

Our journey begins in the vibrant capital of Bishkek before heading deep into the Tian Shan Mountains along a route few travellers ever experience. Each day brings a new landscape, from dramatic alpine gorges and sweeping grasslands to the shimmering waters of Issyk-Kul Lake and the spectacular high-altitude plains of Son-Kul.

Nomadic culture is woven into every part of the journey. Spend nights in traditional yurts, share home-cooked meals with local families, watch skilled craftswomen preserve centuries-old traditions and witness the thrilling spectacle of Kok-Boru, Kyrgyzstan's ancient horseback game.

Throughout the adventure, you'll be accompanied by an expert local guide and your AW tour leader. Together, they bring each destination to life with local knowledge, cultural insight and seamless support, making every day both immersive and memorable.

Pack-free hiking - your luggage moves with you
Wineglass Bay sunrise lookout walk
Freycinet National Park kayak with playful seals
Local Tasmanian produce at every meal
Comfortable lodge accommodation, not camping
Small group of like-minded women, max 14

Sleep under the stars in a traditional yurt at Son-Kul Lake

Day 1 Mon 30 Aug Arrival in Bishkek

Welcome to Kyrgyzstan!

At 5.30pm gather for a group meeting in the hotel lobby, a chance to meet your AW Tour Leader and fellow travellers and discuss the trip. Then we’ll all head out for a welcome dinner.

Meals: Dinner

Accommodation: Hotel, Bishkek

Day 2 Tue 31 Aug Bishkek City Tour

Today we set out with our local guide for our first introduction to Kyrgyzstan. We’ll explore Bishkek’s cultural heart, including a visit to the State History Museum’s ethnographic collection, rich with traditional textiles, dress, and decorative arts. Then, we step into the creative world of renowned felt artist Aidai Asngulova for a hands-on introduction to Kyrgyz felt-making, where you’ll create your own silk and wool piece to take home.

The afternoon is free to explore on your own. Our guide will give suggestions.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Accommodation: Hotel, Bishkek

Day 3 Wed 01 Sep Bishkek: Chunkurchak Gorge Day Trip

After breakfast, set out for a relaxing day trip to Chunkurchak Gorge. Upon arrival, take in the breathtaking mountain views and enjoy the fresh mountain air.

Embark on an easy walk to the waterfall, pausing along the way at several scenic viewpoints to capture the beauty of the landscape- a preview of the spectacular scenery that awaits during the upcoming days of our Kyrgyzstan adventure!

We’ll enjoy a lunch of local dishes before returning to Bishkek. The rest of the afternoon is free to relax or explore on your own.

Distances: Appx 1.5 hours drive each way; Hiking 2-4 km

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Accommodation: Hotel, Bishkek

Day 4 Tue 2 Sep Bishkek - Ala Archa National Park - Chon-Kemin Valley

After breakfast, we leave Bishkek and head into the dramatic landscapes of Ala-Archa National Park for our first taste of Kyrgyzstan’s alpine scenery. Enjoy an easy, scenic walk along the river, surrounded by soaring peaks and fresh mountain air.

We continue through the countryside with a stop at the historic Burana Tower, a remnant of an ancient Silk Road city. By late afternoon, we arrive in the peaceful Chon-Kemin Valley, where the rest of the day is free to relax and unwind.

This evening, enjoy a home-cooked dinner and warm hospitality at our family-run guesthouse.

Distances: 4-5 hours driving total; Walk is less than 2km along flat terrain

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation: Guesthouse, Chon-Kemin

Day 5 Fri 03 Sep Local life & National Horse games

This morning, we explore the scenic Chon-Kemin Valley, framed by snow-capped peaks and dotted with villages that still echo their Soviet-era past. A light walk through the countryside offers glimpses of daily life and warm encounters with local residents.

In the afternoon, we head to the village stadium to experience Kok-Boru, Kyrgyzstan’s thrilling national horse game. This is an unforgettable display of skill, tradition, and community spirit.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation: Guesthouse, Chon-Kemin

Day 6 Sat 04 Sep Chon-Kemin Valley to Son-Kul Lake

After breakfast, we journey into the high Tian Shan Mountains to reach the remote beauty of Son-Kul Lake, one of Kyrgyzstan’s most iconic alpine landscapes. Surrounded by wide-open pastures and grazing horses, this is a place where nomadic traditions are very much alive.

Upon arrival, enjoy an optional gentle hike to take in the vast scenery and fresh mountain air. As evening falls, we settle into traditional felt yurts for dinner and an unforgettable overnight.

Distances: 6-7 hours driving; Hike 1-4km

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation: Yurt

Day 7 Sun 05 Sep Sonkul Lake to Cholpon-Ata (Issyk-Kul Lake)

We set off on a scenic drive toward the legendary Issyk-Kul Lake. En route, we stop in Kochkor to visit a women-led handicraft cooperative, known for its beautiful feltwork and traditional crafts.

Continuing onward, we reach Cholpon-Ata to explore an open-air collection of ancient petroglyphs before arriving to Issyk-Kul Lake.

After checking into our hotel a short walk from the water’s edge, the remainder of the day is yours to unwind by the lake and take in the surrounding mountain views.

Distances: Driving time 3.5-5 hours

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation: Hotel, Cholpon-Ata

Day 8 Mon 06 Sep Cholpon-Ata to Karakol

We enjoy a scenic drive of approximately three to four hours toward Karakol, traveling through the beautiful Grigoryevka and Kyrchyn gorges. Along the way, we pause for an easy, refreshing walk, taking in the dramatic mountain landscapes and peaceful surroundings.

By late afternoon, we arrive in Karakol, with time to relax at the hotel before dinner and a comfortable overnight stay.

Distances: Driving time 3-4 hours

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation: Hotel, Karakol

Day 9 Tue 07 Sep Karakol: Jeep trip & Hike in the Altyn-Arashan Valley

Today we switch to a rugged Russian military UAZ van for a thrilling ride along the dirt road into the stunning Altyn-Arashan Valley. Known as the ‘Golden Spa,’ the area boasts 50°C sulphur hot springs, perfect for soothing tired muscles.

From the hot springs, we embark on a scenic hike toward Peak Palatka, a gentle yet immersive walk through breathtaking alpine landscapes. The return hike takes about two hours, giving plenty of time to enjoy the valley’s natural beauty.
We return to Karakol for the evening.

Distances: Driving time 2-3 hours; Hiking distance varies but around 5-8km

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation: Hotel, Karakol

Day 10 Wed 08 Sep Karakol: City Tour and Jety-Oguz hike

We begin with a tour of Karakol, visiting the Przewalski Museum, dedicated to the famed explorer who first documented Central Asia’s wild horse. Next, admire the ornate Holy Trinity Russian Orthodox Church, then don modest attire to explore the striking Dungan Mosque, built in 1899.

This afternoon we set off on a scenic drive of about 40 minutes to Jety-Oguz (Seven Bulls), a gorge famed for its dramatic red rock formations. Enjoy a light hike through the stunning gorge.

Hiking Distance: 8-12 km, flat (appx 2-3 hours)

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation: Hotel, Karakol

Day 11 Thu 09 Sep Karakol - Eagle demonstration - Bishkek

Today we return to Bishkek, a long but scenic journey with several stops along the way. First, we’ll visit Jaychi pastureland for a thrilling Eagle Hunting demonstration. The local hunter will explain the art of breeding and training these majestic birds, and you’ll have the rare chance to hold an eagle yourself.

Next, we visit the village of Kyzyl-Tuu, known for its skilled yurt artisans. Watch a master at work and take part in assembling a traditional yurt, followed by a home-cooked lunch with the artisan’s family.

In the afternoon, we continue the drive to Bishkek. Check-in and freshen up before heading out for our farewell dinner.

Distances: Total drive time around 8 hours

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation: Hotel, Bishkek

Day 12 Fri 10 Sep Bishkek Departure

Enjoy breakfast at the hotel and take the opportunity to say one last farewell to your travel companions.

There are no scheduled activities or services included today, so you may depart at your convenience.

Meals: Breakfast

Important Notes

Every effort will be made to follow the itinerary as planned, but please remember this is adventure travel and conditions can change unexpectedly. Weather, road conditions, vehicle issues, or the health of fellow travellers may require adjustments. We’ll do our best to keep things on track, but a flexible and easy-going attitude is essential for the best experience.

Occasionally, certain experiences or activities may need to be modified or skipped due to circumstances beyond our control. In such cases, refunds will not be provided for any missed components of the itinerary.

Adventurous Women Tour Leader
A Kyrgyzstan guide throughout the trip
10 nights’ accommodation on a twin/share basis with optional single rooms at a surcharge
1 night accommodation in a traditional yurt (up to 4 AW guests/yurt)
Private transportation for all activities and transfers in the itinerary
Excursions as stated in the itinerary, including entrance fees
Meals as listed in the itinerary

"Loved every minute of the trip! Organisation was great, tour leader (Jazzy) was fabulous, and the other women on the walk were just lovely"

Celia Nepal

"So well organised by the team nothing was a problem so helpful lots of fun with the other Adventurous Women"

Lorrie Ningaloo Reef

"I loved the great group of women and the variety of activities. We hiked, cooked, kayaked, met elephants, laughed, swam and ate. Marie’s knowledge of her homeland made this a memorable experience"

Michelle Cambodia

"Loved the week hiking with Anna & an inspiring group of women. Really well organised, fun, delicious food, amazing scenery. Highly recommend"

Sue Bibbulmun Track

"A stunning part of the world to hike with a special group of awesome women, led by our wonderful leader Lyn"

Tammy Japan

Good to know

Cancellation & Refunds

Cancellation by Adventurous Women:
In the event that we cancel a tour or are unable to guarantee the departure due to not meeting minimum numbers, we will provide a full refund.

Cancellation by you:

90+ days before departure - Loss of deposit (partial voucher available*)
75-89 days before departure - Loss of deposit
74 days or less before departure - Loss of all payments
No refund is available once a tour has commenced

*Multi-day tour cancellations made 90+ days before departure are eligible for a $250 voucher

We strongly recommend taking out travel insurance with trip cancellation cover for peace of mind.

View our full booking terms & conditions

The Adventurous Women Way

The magic of our trips comes from travellers bringing a supportive mindset, a go-with-the-flow attitude, and a genuine spirit of adventure.

We explore beautiful, often remote places where life moves at a different pace. Flexibility, a little humour and positivity go a long way in creating an atmosphere where everyone feels free to be themselves and make the adventure far more rewarding.

Find more about the Adventurous Women Way and travelling with AW

Exclusions

The following is not included in the cost of the tour:

International flights
Drinks other than water at meals
Meals and activities other than listed in the itinerary
Arrival/departure airport transfers
Tips and gratuities for guides and drivers
Expenses of a personal nature
Travel Insurance (mandatory)

Solo Travellers

If you’re travelling solo not to worry, you’re in good company! Many of our travellers join solo and our trips are designed to feel welcoming and supportive from the moment you arrive. It’s a great way to meet like-minded women, and friendships often form quickly along the way.

When on the tour , we have you sharing with different women from the group at different times - great for group bonding and also for alleviating any potential annoyances that may occur as a result of travelling with the same person throughout a tour. Or, if you’d prefer your own room on the trip, this is available for an additional supplement. You can select this option at the time of booking.

Arrival & Departure Details

The tour starts and finishes in Bishkek, the capital city of Kyrgyzstan. There are no direct flights from Australia to Bishkek. The most convenient routings are via Dubai, Doha or Istanbul, although connections are also available through Bangkok and other Asian hubs. Total journey times are typically around 20–24 hours, depending on your departure city and connection.

Who will be leading the trip?

All AW trips are accompanied by one of our experienced Tour Leaders. Their role is to take the hassle out of your travels and help you get the most out of your experience, while embracing the Adventurous Women way.

You’ll also be joined by local Kyrgyzstan guides, who will share insight into the local culture and history along the way.

What if I have dietary restrictions?

Most dietary requirements can be accommodated in Kyrgyzstan with advance notice. Options may be more limited in remote areas where meals are prepared by local families and at yurt camps. Vegetarian diets are generally easy to cater for, while vegan, gluten-free and severe food allergies may present greater challenges. Please let us know of any dietary requirements when booking so we can advise on suitability and make arrangements wherever possible.

Accommodation

We’ll spend 10 nights in hotels and guesthouses, clean and comfortable with en suite bathrooms. and one night in a yurt. The night in the yurt will be up to 4 people per room
The advertised price is based on twin-share accommodation, with guests sharing a room with another member of the group. A single supplement is available for those who prefer private accommodation (for 10 nights of the trip) and can be selected during the booking process, subject to availability.

How will we be travelling?

This is an overland trip, with some longer travel days. We’ll be in a private, air-conditioned bus or van for all travel days. There is one excursion by 4x4 jeep, which allows us to cover some rugged terrain.

Is travel insurance required?

Travel insurance is mandatory for AW's international trips. If you haven't done so already, we recommend taking out a policy early. Most good travel insurance policies offer an upgrade option to cover trip cancellation and interruption, which can come in handy.

If you are looking for a recommendation, we suggest Go Insurance. Through an affiliation with this insurer, AW receives a financial benefit. As a way of passing value back to our guests, if you purchase a policy for an AW trip through Go Insurance using this link, you will receive a 10% discount on the premium. You can learn more about this offer by clicking here.