Tour Overview
Embark on an unforgettable journey through Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan with the Premium Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan tour. Discover the breathtaking natural beauty of Sharyn Canyon, Jety Oguz, Skazka Canyon, and the stunning Lake Issyk Kul. Immerse yourself in the rich history and diverse architecture of Almaty and Bishkek, two former Silk Route cities. Experience authentic local culture with a night in a traditional yurt camp and enjoy dinner around a campfire. Meet local artisans and learn about traditional craftsmanship, including yurt making and felt rug production. Savor delicious local cuisine with visits to a family-owned winery, a Dungan family home, and a traditional lunch in Kyzyl Tuu Village. This tour offers a unique blend of exploration, culture, and culinary delights, all while traveling in comfort with private vehicle transport and carefully selected accommodations. ...more ...less
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Almaty
Location: Almaty
Accommodation: Renion Park Hotel or similar
Accommodation Name: Renion Park Hotel or similar
Meals Included: Dinner
Salemetsiz be! Welcome to Kazakhstan. Your adventure begins in Almaty – this former capital features wide, tree-lined streets, numerous parks and views of snow-capped mountains. You’ll have a welcome meeting at 6 pm tonight to meet your local leader and fellow travellers. If you arrive early, you may want to visit the State Museum of Arts, the State History Museum or the Kasteev House Museum – the most famous Kazakh artist from Soviet times. After your meeting, you’ll have dinner with your group at a traditional Kazakh restaurant.
Included Activities:
-
Day 2: Almaty
Location: Almaty, Central Square, Almaty, Zenkoff Cathedral, Almaty, Panfilov Park, Almaty, Museum of Kazakh Musical Instruments, Almaty, Winery near Almaty
Accommodation: Renion Park Hotel or similar
Accommodation Name: Renion Park Hotel or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Today, you’ll head out with a local guide for a city tour of downtown Almaty. Visit Central Square and the colourful Zenkoff Cathedral (also the second tallest wooden building in the world) in historic Panfilov Park, dedicated to the 28 guardsmen who died defending Moscow against German tanks in WWII. Check out the fascinating Museum of Kazakh Musical Instruments, which features a great collection of ancient relics. This afternoon, head to a local, family-owned and ran winery just outside the city for a delicious lunch and wine tasting. Meet the owners and learn more about wine production in Kazakhstan. Return to Almaty in the late afternoon, where your evening is free to explore at your own pace.
Included Activities:
-
-
Day 3: Bishkek
Location: Tamgaly Tas, Bishkek
Accommodation: Park Hotel or similar
Accommodation Name: Park Hotel or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
After breakfast this morning, you’ll leave Kazakhstan for Kyrgyzstan. Along the way, stop at the UNESCO World Heritage site of Tamgaly Tas, which features some amazing Bronze Age petroglyphs. Enjoy a picnic lunch here, then carry on to Bishkek – the capital of Kyrgyzstan that borders Central Asia's Tian Shan range. Arriving in the late afternoon, you’ll head straight out for an orientation walk with your leader to get your bearings, then you can enjoy a free evening.
Included Activities:
-
-
Day 4: Bishkek
Location: Bishkek
Accommodation: Park Hotel or similar
Accommodation Name: Park Hotel or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Embark on a half-day city tour of downtown Bishkek today. Meet with a local Bishkek guide and head out to see Ala-Too Square and the statue of Manas – the hero of heroes for the local Kyrgyz people. See the Russian Orthodox church, one of the only few Lenin statues left in all the ex-USSR countries, Oak Park (the oldest park in the country), the Opera house and Victory Square, with its eternal flame dedicated to WW2. After some free time to rest and recharge, head out to meet a local designer, craftsman and design historian to learn about Central Asian textile design and manufacturing. Tonight, join your group for dinner in Bishkek.
Included Activities:
-
-
Day 5: Issyk Kul
Location: Lake Issyk Kul, Burana Tower, Kyzyl Tuu
Accommodation: Barbulak Yurt Camp (Feature Stay) or similar
Accommodation Name: Barbulak Yurt Camp (Feature Stay) or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
After a relaxed breakfast today, you’ll start the drive to Lake Issyk Kul – one of the largest lakes in the world, 178 km long and 60 km wide. Along the way, stop at Burana Tower – a large minaret in the Chuy Valley – and visit the monument and museum. You’ll then be welcomed into the home of a local farming family nearby for a homemade lunch. Chat with the locals, then continue to Kyzyk Tuu village. When you arrive, meet with a local craftsman who keeps the ancient tradition of yurt making alive. Head to a workshop where the craftsman will show you how they’re made with no electrical tools and gain an insight into how these iconic structures are built, including the process of making Kiiz (the felt layers that cover the yurt). Maybe even have a go at assembling your own! Tonight, you’ll test your nomadic skills with a night in a traditional yurt camp – these yurts were made by the craftsmen in the local village, so you know you’re getting the authentic experience. After a walk with your group to admire the landscape, gather around the campfire for dinner under the stars.
Included Activities:
-
-
Day 6: Karakol
Location: Skazka Canyon, Jety Oguz Valley, Karakol
Accommodation: Green Yard Hotel or similar
Accommodation Name: Green Yard Hotel or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast
Depart the yurt camp after breakfast this morning and head to Karakol – the furthest eastern outpost of former Tsarist Russia and, later, of the USSR. On the way, visit Skazka Canyon (which translates to Fairytale Canyon) to soak in the rugged stone peaks that contrast the meadows and alpine lakes that make so much of Kyrgyzstan’s landscape. After lunch, continue to Jety Oguz Valley – its name means 'seven bulls,' which refers to the seven red-brown cliffs here. Walk through the gorgeous valley and carry on to Karakol – this town was founded as a Russian military outpost and still has a few ‘Gingerbread houses’ along its scenic streets.
Included Activities:
-
-
Day 7: Karakol
Location: Karakol, Prezhevalsky Museum, Dungan Mosque, Holy Trinity Cathedral
Accommodation: Green Yard Hotel or similar
Accommodation Name: Green Yard Hotel or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Today you’ll embark on a tour of the city with your local leader. First, visit the Prezhevalsky Museum and learn about a Russian explorer who made discoveries in China and Mongolia. hen, walk along the scenic streets of Karakol to see the ‘Gingerbread Cottage’ houses. Visit a lively local market to browse for souvenirs, then see the Dungan Mosque and the Holy Trinity Cathedral. Your afternoon is free to explore at your own pace. Tonight, you’ll be welcomed into the family home of a Dungan local for a masterclass on local cuisine – the Dungan or Hui people are a local ethnic group of Chinese Muslims who escaped China after the defeat of the Hui revolt in 1877. Today, they have a large community all over Central Asia, especially in Karakol. Enjoy dinner with your hosts, then head back to your accommodation for a relaxing evening.
Included Activities:
-
-
Day 8: Almaty
Location: Charyn Canyon, Almaty
Accommodation: Renion Park Hotel or similar
Accommodation Name: Renion Park Hotel or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Today is a long travel day, including a border crossing back into Kazakhstan. Wake up early this morning and grab a window seat if you can – the scenery is entertainment in itself! You’ll make a few stops along the way for photos and to stretch your legs, including at Charyn Canyon – often referred as the little brother of the Grand Canyon in the Unites States, wind and water have shaped this spectacular canyon with different shapes and colours. Go on a short hike to the bottom of the canyon, seeing some incredible viewpoints along the way. After, continue to Almaty. When you arrive, freshen up at the hotel then head out for a traditional dinner with your group to toast to an amazing adventure.
Included Activities:
-
Day 9: Almaty
Location: Almaty
Meals Included: Breakfast
With no further activities planned, your trip comes to an end after breakfast this morning. If you want to continue your trip in Central Asia and discover more along the Silk Routes, then why not check out our Premium Uzbekistan trip. If you need to organise additional accommodation, just get in touch with your booking agent ahead of time.
What's Included
-
Accommodation
Hotel (7 nights), Yurt Feature Stay (1 night) -
Meals
8 breakfasts, 4 lunches, 4 dinners -
Almaty - Welcome Dinner
Enjoy a welcome dinner in Almaty to kick off your adventure.
-
Almaty - City tour with local guide
Explore the city of Almaty with a local guide.
-
Almaty - Winery Visit, Tasting and dinner
Visit a local winery in Almaty for a tasting and dinner.
-
Bishkek Orientation Walk
Get acquainted with Bishkek on an orientation walk.
-
Bishkek - Tamgaly Tas - petroglyphs
Visit the Tamgaly Tas site to see ancient petroglyphs.
-
Bishkek - City walking tour
Take a walking tour of Bishkek to see its main attractions.
-
Bishkek - Central Asian Textile Visit
Learn about Central Asian textile design and manufacturing.
-
Issky Kul - Kyzyl Tuu - Yurt Making Workshop
Participate in a yurt making workshop in Kyzyl Tuu.
-
Bishkek - Burana Tower
Visit the historic Burana Tower in the Chuy Valley.
-
Karakol - Skazka Canyon Visit
Explore the Skazka Canyon, known for its unique rock formations.
What's Not Included
-
Flights
International and domestic flights are not included.
-
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is not included and is highly recommended.
-
Personal Expenses
Personal expenses such as souvenirs and additional activities are not included.
-
Visa Fees
Visa fees for Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan are not included.
Transport
- Private vehicle
Accommodation
- The style of accommodation indicated in the day-to-day itinerary is a guideline only and may change. On some occasions, alternative arrangements may need to be made due to the lack of availability of rooms in our preferred accommodation. In these cases, we will use a similar standard of accommodation.
- Throughout the trip, we request that our properties prepare rooms in time for our arrival, especially if we're arriving prior to normal check-in time. However, this isn't always possible which means we won't be able to check-in immediately on arrival at some hotels. Instead, we can store our luggage and explore our new destination or on some trips, have use of shared day rooms until all rooms are available.
Important Information
- 1. A complimentary airport arrival transfer is included; valid if you are arriving on Day 1 or if you have booked pre-tour accommodation through us. You must provide your flight details to your booking agent at least 14 days prior to travel.
- 2. A single supplement is available if you'd prefer not to share a room on this trip. The single supplement applies to all nights of your trip, with the exception of day 5, and is subject to availability. Please speak to your booking agent for further information.
Mode of Transport
Travel in comfort with a private vehicle throughout the tour, ensuring a seamless journey between the stunning landscapes and cultural highlights of Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan.
Accommodation
Throughout the tour, accommodations may vary, but they will maintain a similar standard. Early arrivals may not allow immediate check-in, but luggage storage and shared day rooms are available. Enjoy a memorable night in a traditional yurt camp by Lake Issyk Kul.
Check out our Q&As
-
What kind of accommodation can I expect during the tour?
The style of accommodation indicated in the day-to-day itinerary is a guideline only and may change due to availability. Alternative arrangements will be made if necessary, maintaining a similar standard. Rooms are requested to be prepared in time for arrival, but immediate check-in may not always be possible. Luggage can be stored, and shared day rooms may be available until all rooms are ready. ...more ...less
-
Will I have the opportunity to interact with local people during the tour?
Yes, the tour includes several opportunities to interact with local people. You will have dinner with locals at a yurt camp, visit a family-owned winery, and enjoy a cooking masterclass with a Dungan family. Additionally, you will meet local artisans, including a yurt maker and a craftsman in Central Asian textile design. ...more ...less
-
What unique experiences are included in the tour?
The tour offers unique experiences such as spending a night in a traditional yurt camp, visiting a local yurt maker's workshop, and participating in a cooking masterclass with a Dungan family. You will also visit a family-owned winery for a tasting and dinner, and explore the petroglyphs at Tamgaly Tas. ...more ...less
-
What kind of transportation is used during the tour?
The tour uses private vehicles for transportation.
-
Is there a single supplement available for this tour?
Yes, a single supplement is available if you prefer not to share a room, applicable to all nights except for day 5, subject to availability.
-
Is an airport transfer included in the tour package?
Yes, a complimentary airport arrival transfer is included if you arrive on Day 1 or if you have booked pre-tour accommodation through the tour provider. Flight details must be provided to the booking agent at least 14 days prior to travel.
-
What policies are in place for Covid-19?
Please contact us for latest COVID-19 policies
-
How long has the tour company been trading?
Intrepid Travel has been taking travellers around the world for over 30 years
-
Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
Yes
-
What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
Since 2002, The Intrepid Foundation has supported over 130 organisations across the world. We’re creating positive impact through the joy of travel, community and connection.
-
Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?
Over 50% of traveller travel solo with Intrepid. You can choose to share a room with another solo travelle of the same sex for no additional charge, or choose to pay a single supplement if you’d like your own room. Please request this when booking, and we will secure you a single supplement wherever possible. Please note, if you are booking a last-minute trip, it may be harder for us to secure a single room
Reviews of this operator
1 Select your preferred date
2025 Sep
2025 Oct
2025 Apr
2026 May
2026 Jun
2026 Sep
2026 Oct
2026 Apr
2027 May
2027 Jun
2027 Sep
2027 Oct
2027
Saturday - Sunday
Oct 04, 2025 - Oct 12, 2025Tuesday - Wednesday
Oct 07, 2025 - Oct 15, 2025Saturday - Sunday
Oct 18, 2025 - Oct 26, 2025Book with Confidence
-
Free Date Changes
Intrepid Travel allows you to make 10 free date changes, as long as the change is made at least 56 days before the start of the tour.
-
Transfer as credit to Future Tours
Intrepid Travel allows you to transfer existing payments to a future tour to avoid cancellation fees if you can't travel and inform intrepid travel, 56 days before departure.
-
Low Deposit
Intrepid Travel requires a minimum deposit of 400 USD per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 56 days before departure.
-
Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of intrepid travel charges.
Up to 56 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 55 days before tour starts: Forfeit 30% of booking price.
At 30 days before tour starts: Forfeit 60% of booking price.
At 14 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
-
Terms and Conditions
Enquire for Extra Savings
Rated 5* on Trust Pilot & ABTA Protected.
Premium Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan
9 Days Starting and ending in Almaty, Kazakhstan
Visiting: Almaty, Central Square, Almaty, Zenkoff Cathedral, Almaty, Panfilov Park, Almaty, Museum of Kazakh Musical Instruments, Almaty, Winery near Almaty, Tamgaly Tas, Bishkek, Lake Issyk Kul, Burana Tower, Kyzyl Tuu, Skazka Canyon, Jety Oguz Valley, Karakol, Prezhevalsky Museum, Dungan Mosque, Holy Trinity Cathedral, Charyn Canyon ...more ...less
Tour operator:
Tour code:
KFPK
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Group size:
1 - 12
Age range:
15-99
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Interests:
Cultural, Foodie and Wine Tours, Gardens & Nature Tours, Wildlife Tours
