Kyrgyzstan: Exploring Untouched Landscapes (8 days)

Kyrgyzstan may be a small country, but it has been blessed with some of the most breathtaking landscapes in the world. Massive mountain ranges intertwine with vast valleys dotted with nomadic settlements, herds of yaks, donkeys, and horses, or picturesque urban centers. During the summer months, the mountain breeze blows down from the snow-capped peaks and embraces life with a freshness that you will miss when back home.

In this itinerary, we have combined gorges, mountains, and lakes to offer you an authentic view of the Kyrgyz countryside and its untouched nature. On the way, you will also get a taste of the local hospitality, gaining insights into traditional practices and old rituals that survive to our day, and delving a bit more into the essence of this lesser-known civilization.

Trip highlights:

Get ready to:

·       Live like a local in a traditional yurt, surrounded by silence, the Kyrgyz nomads, and their herds of yaks, donkeys, goats and horses.

·       Stay by the two most beautiful lakes of the country: Song Kul (an alpine lake at 3000 m altitude) and the large Issyk Kul.

·       Interact with the nomadic tribes and the craftsmen in the villages, learning more about their way of living and the Kyrgyz civilization.

·       Witness an eagle hunting demonstration: a traditional occupation and one of the most important highlights of the trip.

·       Hike through the Skazka Canyon, also known as the Fairytale Canyon, full of colorful formations and exciting, narrow paths.

·       Marvel in front of the Jeti Oguz Seven Bulls Rocks.

·       Explore the picturesque Karakol town and Jyrgalan valley.

·       Admire ancient petroglyphs that have turned a large area into an open-air museum.

·       Meditate in the Ruh Ordo Cultural Center, which was built to allow guests to achieve spiritual growth while discovering different cultural and religious elements in the region.

·       Trek in the Ala-Archa National Park, exploring some of its most popular corners and admiring the breathtaking landscapes.

Facts:

·       Level: Easy-Moderate.

·       Activity: Trekking, Cultural sightseeing, Cultural interaction, Nature observation, Eagle hunting demonstration.

·       Duration: 8 days. 

Our operation:

• All Rahhalah’s ground handlers and guides are locally employed, ensuring an authentic experience for the travelers, as well as sensitivity and understanding of the local culture and environment.

• Our staff is highly experienced and is always committed to providing exceptional service.

Sustainability:

·       We run a low impact operation, and we leave no traces behind, contributing to the protection of the local land, its people, and culture.

·       All our local guides and staff are appropriately employed and adequately equipped. Also, we make extensive use of local products and, thus, maximize the economic benefits for the local communities.

·       As you possibly know, 1% of our revenue is directed towards the support of a local cause. This is our pay-back promise.