Exploring Kazakhstan & Kyrgyzstan

14 DAYS
Availability : 27th Aug - 10th Sept '25
Malta
Kazakhstan & Kyrgyzstan
Max People : 19

Exploring Kazakhstan & Kyrgyzstan

0
  • 14 DAYS
  • Kazakhstan & Kyrgyzstan
  • 27th Aug - 10th Sept '25
  • Max People : 19

Tour Details

Globaltravelbook is a licensed travel agency in Malta and is covered by the Insolvency Fund – meaning that in the scenario the agency (local or foreign) is unable to provide the promised service, you, the customer is guaranteed your money back. 

WANT TO COMBINE THIS TRIP WITH UZBEKISTAN? UZBEKISTAN TRIP WILL BE STARTING ON 11TH SEPTEMBER 2025.

REPEAT CLIENTS: €100 discount 

Highlights

  • Almaty: City tour, Kok Tobe hill views, and visit to the Green Bazaar.
  • Charyn Canyon: Walk through the Valley of Castles.
  • Kolsai & Kaindy Lakes: Nature walks and sunken trees at Kaindy Lake.
  • Karakol: Visit Dungan Mosque, hot springs, and local attractions.
  • Altyn Arashan: Hot springs and optional horseback riding.
  • Djety Oguz & Barskoon: Scenic gorges, waterfalls, and a visit to a musical instrument maker.
  • Köl-Suu: Known for its striking turquoise waters and dramatic surrounding cliffs.
  • Son Kul Lake: Horseback riding and stunning views.
  • Chon Kemin: Hike or visit a local school.
  • Bishkek: Explore the capital with optional folklore show.

Tour Details

After spending over two weeks exploring these breathtaking destinations, the Globaltravelbook team has crafted the perfect itinerary to ensure an unforgettable journey. Discover majestic mountains, scenic lakes, and stunning canyons, while immersing yourself in authentic cultural experiences with locals. Whether it’s horseback riding through the valleys or staying in traditional yurts, this adventure is designed for those who seek both natural beauty and genuine cultural connections. Let us take care of the details while you focus on making memories! This itinerary is designed to the highest standards, this trip offers a seamless blend of cultural discovery, breathtaking landscapes, and unique experiences, guaranteeing a memorable and comfortable adventure. 
 
What about flights?

Flights are being booked individually (approx €800) — we can either arrange them for you or share the details so you can join the rest of the group.

Why don’t we include flights in the package price?

  1. To be transparent with flight costs
  2. To give flexibility in case customers would like to extend their stay
More exciting, day-by-day information is available below in the Itinerary section.

Price Includes

  • Local tour guide in visiting country plus Globaltravelbook team
  • 14 nights accommodation (BB basis) based on twin sharing rooms. ( 3* & 4* Hotels, Guesthouses and Yurts)
  • Hotel Accommodation based on a twin sharing room (Single supplement: €400 - there might be some areas in yurts where the only possibility is to share a twin room)
  • 13 Breakfasts, 12 Lunches & 10 Dinners
  • All activities mentioned in the itinerary below
  • Airport transfer and Transportation throughout in comfortable vehicles
  • Insolvency Fund Protection
  • All entrance fees and activities apart from any additional horse riding you may decide to do in your free time

Arrival Airport

Almaty International Airport

From Malta:

  • Depart from Malta on the 27th August 2025
  • Arrival in Almaty – 8.20am on 28th August 2025

For those not travelling from Malta, it is important that we meet in Almaty on the 28th August 2025

Departure Airport

Manas International Airport (Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan)

Dates

27th Aug – 10th Sept 2025

Price Excludes

  • Flights are being booked individually — we can either arrange them for you or share the details so you can join the rest of the group.
  • Compulsory Travel Insurance
  • Charges incurred as a result of delays beyond the control of Globaltravelbook and operators in Kazakstan and Kyrgyzstan
  • The lunches and dinners that are not mentioned as 'Included' in Itinerary.
  • The activities marked as 'optional' on the itinerary.
  • Private expenses
  • Gratuities

Requirements

  • Insurance policy covering this particular trip
  • A passport valid for at least six months after the return date
  • Sign Globaltravelbook's waiver form
  • Inform us of any medical or religious food restrictions
  • Visa - (no visa required for Maltese citizens)

Itinerary

14 Days in Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan. A brochure will be presented to you once your booking is completed.

Day 1 - 28th AugustArrival in Almaty

For those travelling from Malta we will meet at Malta International Airport and travel together to Almaty, Kazakhstan. If anyone is flying from outside of Malta has to meet us in Almaty on the travel dates.

  • Arrive at Almaty International Airport at approx 8.20am. Meet your guide and transfer to the city. Early check-in and freshen up.
  • Do an Almaty City Tour, which begins at Republic Square and the Monument of Independence. Learn about Kazakhstan’s history and culture.
  • Visit 28 Panfilov Heroes Park, see the Orthodox Cathedral, built from wood and without even one nail by the popular architect Andrey Zenkov.
  • Visit the Green Bazaar and the Chocolate Factory.
  • Head to Kok Tobe Hill for panoramic views of Almaty and a walk near the tallest TV tower in Kazakhstan.
  • After a day of exploration, return to your accommodation to unwind. Choose to join the group for dinner or enjoy the evening at your leisure.

Included:  Transfers & Entrances

Accommodation: Kazzhol park Hotel

Day 2 - 29th AugustAlmaty - Charyn Canyon – Black canyon - Saty village (Kazakhstan)

After breakfast, depart for Charyn Canyon.

Upon arrival, explore the canyon’s breathtaking rock formations in a Soviet-era vehicle. For those who enjoy hiking, there is an optional 2.5 km trek down to the Charyn River, with the option to return by Soviet car.

Enjoy a picnic lunch by the river, surrounded by the canyon’s dramatic scenery.

After lunch, return to the van and continue the journey with a 40-minute drive to the Black Canyon, known for its unique rock formations. From there, drive to the hotel.

Arrive at the hotel, check in, and unwind. 

Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Transfers & Entrance fees

Accommodation: Kolsay Prestige hotel or similar

Day 3 - 30th AugustSaty village – Kaiyndy lake – Kolsay lake – Saty village (Kazakhstan)

  • After breakfast, travel to Lake Kaindy from Saty Village in a Soviet off-road vehicle. The journey takes you along a mix of asphalt and bumpy roads. Upon arrival, hike down the recently built staircase to reach the lake, famously known as the “Sunken Forest.” This mystical lake, formed after an earthquake in 1911, is home to submerged spruce trees that rise eerily from the water, creating a surreal and breathtaking landscape.
  • Return to the hotel for a lunch 
  • After lunch, head to Kolsai Lake, just 15 minutes away. Upon arrival take a short hike, starting on a paved road that offers panoramic views of the entire lake. Then, descend via a well-maintained staircase to the lake’s shore, where you can enjoy the stunning natural beauty and serene atmosphere. In the evening, return to the hotel for a well-deserved rest.  
Included: Breakfast, Lunch & Transfers.
Accommodation: Kolsay Prestige hotel or similar

Day 4 - 31st AugustSaty village - Tepke farm – Karakol (Kyrgyzstan)

Breakfast at 7:00 AM. Afterward, drive towards Karakol Town, taking the Kegen-Karkyra road to the Kyrgyzstan border, which takes approximately 2.5 hours.

Pass through the border and continue towards Tepke Farm, a 1.5-hour drive. On the way, visit the San-Tash Scythian Kurgans, also known as “counted stones,” which hold historical and cultural significance.

Arrive at Tepke Farm and enjoy a delicious lunch. Afterward, embark on an intriguing excursion around the farm, where you’ll see their livestock, including the rare and expensive Kyrgyz “Arashan” sheep, with prices ranging from $15,000 to $20,000 per sheep, and some even selling for up to $850,000. You’ll also have the chance to see their purebred racing horses.

Drive to Karakol for a 30-minute drive, and check in to the hotel.

Afterward, enjoy a city tour of Karakol, visiting the remarkable Dungan Mosque, which was built without using any nails, and the beautiful Orthodox Cathedral Church.

End the day with a dinner at a local restaurant, followed by an overnight stay at the hotel.

Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner & Transfers. 
 
Accommodation: Green Yard Hotel or similar

Day 5 - 1st September Karakol – Altyn Arashan – Dungan dinner – Karakol

After breakfast, drive to Altyn Arashan in a Soviet off-road truck on a bumpy road. The journey is rough, however, it’s worth it to witness this natural wonder. On the way, we’ll stop several times so you can stretch your legs, take photos, and enjoy the beautiful scenery.

Upon arrival, enjoy a delicious lunch while taking in the stunning views of Peak Tent.

After lunch, take some time to soak in the breathtaking surroundings.

You can optionally hike back to Karakol while the Soviet truck follows. If you feel tired or the weather changes, feel free to hop back into the truck. The trail is of medium difficulty, so wearing good hiking boots is essential.

On the way back, stop at the hot springs, where our van will be waiting. Take your belongings from the Soviet truck, transfer to the van, and head to the open-air hot springs in the valley. After a relaxing soak in the warm waters, enjoy a brew of coffee with biscuits to refresh.

Return to the hotel and enjoy a Dungan-style dinner hosted by a local Dungan family, offering a unique blend of Arab-Chinese heritage in their cuisine. During dinner, the hosts will share fascinating insights into the history and origins of the Dungan people.

Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner & Transfers.

Accommodation: Green Yard Hotel or similar

Day 6 - 2nd SeptemberKarakol – Jeti Oguz – Craftsman house – Barskoon waterfall – Faitytale canyon - Bokonbaev

After breakfast, travel to Bokonbaevo Village along the road on the south shore of Issyk-Kul Lake. On the way, stop to visit the stunning Jeti-Oguz (Seven Bulls) red rock formations, a 30-minute drive. Enjoy the panoramic views from the viewpoint.

Next, drive to visit the Master Craftsman of traditional “Komuz” musical instrument (30-minute drive), where you’ll learn about the craftsmanship behind the most popular Kyrgyz musical instrument.

Afterward, take the opportunity to taste fresh honey directly from the bee house, and enjoy a lunch with a local family, savouring their honey while being serenaded by the sounds of traditional Kyrgyz music played by our craftsman.

Continue the journey to Barskoon Valley, a 1.5-hour drive. Upon arrival, take a short 20-minute hike (one way) to the beautiful waterfall.

Next, drive to Skazka (Fairytale) Canyon, about 1 hour away. Explore the mystical canyon with an hike for about 1 hour. The trail is of medium difficulty, so wearing good hiking boots is essential.

Drive onward to the hotel and check-in. Enjoy dinner and an overnight stay at the hotel.

Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner & Transfers.

Accommodation: Tong Marina Hotel in Bokonbaev or similar

Day 7 - 3rd SeptemberBokonbaev – Ak Say canyon – Yurt making – Eagle hunter – Folklore show - Bokonbaevo

After breakfast, drive to Ak Say Canyon. Upon arrival, take a 30-minute hike (one way) to a panoramic viewpoint for breathtaking views. . The trail is of medium difficulty, so wearing good hiking boots is essential. For those who prefer a more relaxed option, enjoy a swim in Issyk-Kul Lake instead.

Afterward, enjoy a coffee break on the beach with biscuits and fresh fruits.

Continue to the village of yurt makers, where you’ll participate in the assembly of a real yurt. The host will share fascinating insights into this nomadic dwelling and its cultural significance.

Enjoy a homemade lunch with the yurt maker’s family before heading to the Bokonbaevo mountains. Here, you’ll meet an eagle hunter, who will share the history and fascinating facts about golden eagles and their role in Kyrgyz traditions.

Drive back to the hotel. After dinner at the hotel, enjoy a Kyrgyz traditional folklore concert, where you’ll get a closer look at traditional musical instruments and their unique sounds.

Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Transfers and all activities.
Accommodation: Tong Marina Hotel in Bokonbaev or similar

Day 8 - 4th SeptemberBokonbaev – Felt Making – Song-Kol Lake

After breakfast, drive to Kochkor town via the Orto Tokoy Water Reserve. This scenic reservoir marks the beginning of the Chu River, which serves as a natural border between Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan.

Upon arrival in Kochkor, visit local artisans and learn the traditional craft of felt carpet making from sheep’s wool. You’ll even have the chance to participate and help create one alongside skilled masters.

Enjoy a homemade lunch with a local family before continuing the journey to Song-Kol Lake, a breathtaking alpine lake situated at 3,016 meters above sea level, passing through the Kalmak-Ashuu Pass (3,446m) for stunning panoramic views.

Arrive at the yurt camp around 5:00 PM and check in.

In the afternoon, enjoy free time to:

  • Explore the stunning landscapes with a short hike.
  • Go horseback riding near the camp (available for an extra fee – €25 pp).
  • Watch or participate in “Kok Boru,” an exhilarating nomadic horse game also known as goat snatching (available for an extra fee – €220 per group – The cost per person will be determined once the group is finalized).

Enjoy a delicious dinner and overnight at a traditional yurt camp, surrounded by the untouched beauty of Song-Kol.

Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner & Transfers.

Accommodation: Nomad’s dream yurt camp or similar

 
*Note: Yurt camps could only be shared between 2 persons and bathrooms and showers are shared.

Day 9 - 5th SeptemberSong-Kol Lake – 33 Serpentines – Kajyrty Waterfall – Naryn Town

After breakfast, depart from Song-Kol Lake and drive towards Naryn town. Stop at the top of the 33 Serpentines to take in the breathtaking panoramic views of the valley below.

Descend via the 33 Serpentines, also known as “33 Parrots,” a winding mountain road offering spectacular scenery. At the base of the mountain, take a short 15-minute hike (one way) to Kajyrty Waterfall. The trail is of medium difficulty, so wearing good hiking boots is essential.

Enjoy a picnic lunch in the wild, surrounded by nature.

After lunch, continue the drive to Naryn town, passing through Dolon Pass (3,030m above sea level), offering stunning landscapes along the way.

Upon arrival, check in to your hotel and relax.

In the evening, enjoy a buffet-style dinner at a local restaurant.

Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner & Transfers
Accommodation: Hotel Grand Khan Tengri hotel

Day 10 - 6th SeptemberNaryn Town – Köl-Suu

 

After breakfast, drive to Kok Kiya Valley. On the way, we will pass through a checkpoint where border guards will check our special permits and passports, as Kel Suu (Köl-Suu) is located in a strategic area near the border with China. This is a necessary security procedure for entering the region.

Once we clear the checkpoint, continue the journey through mountainous landscapes to reach the Kel Suu (Köl-Suu) Yurt Camp. Upon arrival, check in and enjoy a delicious lunch at the yurt camp.

After some time to relax, prepare for the next day’s horseback ride to Kel Suu (Köl-Suu) Lake. Your guide will give a detailed briefing on horseback riding safety and techniques. You’ll have the chance to practice riding with the help of your guide and the horse handlers, who will accompany you and ensure you feel confident and balanced on the saddle.

For those who prefer not to ride, there are alternative options for reaching the lake the next day:

  • Soviet off-road vehicle followed by a short hike to the lake.
  • A full hike to the lake on foot, for a more adventurous experience.
In the evening, enjoy a traditional dinner at the camp, and rest up for tomorrow’s adventure.
 
Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner & Transfers.
Accommodation: Jyrgal yurt camp or similar
 
*Note: Yurt camps could only be shared between 2 persons and bathrooms and showers are shared.

Day 11 - 7th SeptemberVisit Köl-Suu Lake – Boating on the Lake – Naryn Town

After breakfast, set out to explore Kel Suu Lake. You can reach the lake in one of three ways:

  • By horseback (approximately 1,5 hour one way),
  • By Soviet off-road vehicle followed by a short hike 15 min drive & 40 min hike
  • Or, for a more immersive experience, hike directly from the start (2.5 hours one way).

Once at the lake, enjoy a relaxing boating excursion on its tranquil waters. Take a coffee break by the lake, surrounded by breathtaking views.

Afterward, return to the yurt camp for a delicious lunch.

Once you’ve finished, gather your belongings, and prepare for the journey back to Naryn Town. Load your luggage into the vehicle and enjoy a scenic drive back.

Upon arrival in Naryn, check-in to the hotel and enjoy a buffet-style dinner.

Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner & Transfers and Activities. 
Accommodation: Grand Khan Tengri hotel

Day 12 - 8th SeptemberNaryn Town – Kok Moinok Canyon – Chong Kemin

After breakfast, drive to Kok Moinok Canyon. Upon arrival, take a short hike to explore the stunning rock formations and unique landscapes of the canyon.

Return to the vehicle and continue the journey to Chong Kemin. Upon arrival, check in to the hotel and enjoy a delicious lunch. 

Spend the afternoon at your leisure—relax, take a swim in the pool, or unwind in the sauna. The accommodation has a 25m long pool.

If you prefer, you could also opt for an optional activity:
• Hiking in the scenic surroundings
• Horseback riding –  €25 per person

In the evening, enjoy dinner at the hotel before settling in for an overnight stay.

Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner & Transfers.
Accommodation: Ashu guest house

Day 13 - 9th SeptemberChong Kemin – Rafting – Bishkek

After breakfast,

Either enjoy a relaxed morning or choose to take part in a  rafting experience along the scenic Chu River, navigating gentle rapids while surrounded by breathtaking mountain landscapes ($25 per person)

After rafting, you will head to Bishkek for lunch. 

Check-in to the hotel after lunch and take some time to relax and to freshen up (1 hour)

Later, take a guided city tour of Bishkek, visiting key landmarks and exploring the vibrant culture. Stop at Osh Bazaar, one of the city’s most famous markets, where you can experience the lively atmosphere, browse traditional goods, and see colorful displays of spices, dried fruits, handcrafted souvenirs, and local delicacies.

In the evening, enjoy a farewell dinner at a traditional restaurant, savoring authentic Kyrgyz cuisine and reflecting on the incredible journey.

Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Transfers and Activities.
Accommodation: Damas or Ambassador Hotel

Day 14 - 10th SeptemberDeparture Day

Breakfast and transfer to the airport. 

Included: Breakfast & Transfer to airport.

Tips & Important things to know before travelling to Kazakstan and Kyrgyzstan

  • In rural and mountainous regions, internet and WiFi may be unreliable. However, it gives you the opportunity to disconnect and enjoy the beautiful nature.
  • Some drives will be be long on winding roads so be sure to carry motion sickness pills just in case
  • Delays could occur due to weather conditions (be it air, water or land transport)- so please be patient, we do not have control over mother nature but our partners in the visiting country will always find the best possible solution for you.
  • Our partners in Kazakstan and Kyrgyzstan have the authority to change the itinerary last minute in the case of any weather conditions. This is for your safety & wellbeing.
  • On Day 4, you will cross into Kyrgyzstan, so your SIM card purchased in Kazakhstan will no longer work. This issue can be avoided by using an e-SIM. After boarder crossing you will be taken to purchase a SIM card and to exchange money.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the deadline to book this trip?

Availability is on a first come, first serve basis.

Do yurts have hot water and are toilets/showers shared or private?

Yes, the camps will have hot water. The toilets and showers are separate and sharing. Please note that this is part of the adventure and an opportunity to embrace a unique travel experience.

How much should I budget for lunches and dinners not included?

This is up to your personal food and drink choices. You could spend anything between 5-20USD for a meal.

Could I get a single yurt if I pay the single supplement?

Yurt availability is limited – single occupancy in yurts is only possible if available. 

Is it possible to arrive earlier / stay longer?

Yes, of course. As long as you are in Almaty on the trip dates, you are free to arrive / leave whenever you want. It is best to let us know your plans so we can organise transfers accordingly. 

What type of insurance do I need?

For safety, travel insurance is mandatory when travelling with us. You need to make sure that the country of visit is covered by your insurance and is important to keep a copy of your insurance policy handy.

What is the accommodation like?

Accommodation will be hand selected and can be viewed above. There will be a mix of 4*, 3*, guesthouses and yurt camps. 

I am a solo traveller - is this trip suitable for me? Could I get a single room?

The majority of guests joining our trips are solo travellers. Through meet-ups, events and our facebook community you will get to know the group before meeting at the airport to fly to Kazakstan and Kyrgyzstan. You could get a single room at an additional charge, however, meeting up with the group beforehand could give you the opportunity to meet someone and decide together to share a room. 

How about food?

Breakfasts and 10 lunches and 10 dinners are included. If you have any food intolerances or allergies, please let us know as soon as you complete your booking. This will help us ensure that we can accommodate your dietary needs effectively during your trip

Are there vegetarian options?

Generally all restaurants cater for your needs and we will have a local guide who will suggest appropriate dishes and restaurants. Best is to advice us on booking so that we could plan for this in advance.

What's the power plug in Kazakstan and Kyrgyzstan?

In Kazakstan and Kyrgyzstan the power plug sockets are of type C and F.

Do I need a visa to enter Kazakstan and Kyrgyzstan?

EU passport holders do not need a visa to visit Kazakstan and Kyrgyzstan as a tourist, provided they have a passport of usually six months’ validity and an onward or return ticket.

Option: Combine with Uzbekistan
From€2,450
August 27, 2025
Available: 16 seats
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Need Help?


+356 79059949 | +356 99248945

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Additional Information

  • Confirmation will be received within 24 hours of booking - subject to availability
  • First come, first served basis. The minimum number of people required for this trip is 10 people. In the case this is not reached, you will get your full payment back.
  • Our local partners and tour leader can adjust the itinerary at the last minute due to weather conditions. Changes will only be made with your safety and well-being in mind, and not for any other reason.
  • We will make every effort to pair you with a roommate for a twin room. However, if this is not possible, you will be responsible for covering the single supplement fee.
  • Tour timings and the order of activities are subject to change based on final flight schedules or unforeseen circumstances, such as the unavailability of certain activities. A final version of the itinerary will be provided in booklet form closer to the trip dates. We strive to provide equivalent alternatives to ensure the best experience for our travelers.
  • If you decide to switch from a shared room to a single room after booking, the single supplement option won't apply. We'll need to work out a new price for the single room based on each individual case.
  • It is the responsibility of the persons joining an experience to communicate any food intolerances/allergy-related information. GTB or the Service Provider will not assume any liability for adverse reactions to food/drinks consumed, or items one may come in contact with while on an experience
  • Refer to the FAQs Section for further information
  • Travel and Health insurance is obligatory: All travellers must be fully insured, and purchase their own travel insurance which covers the particular trip being booked. A waiver document must be filled in, signed and sent back to Globaltravelbook.
  • International flights are not included. You must book your own flights and be in the visiting country on the itinerary dates. Your flight must arrive by or before the Arrival Day, and depart no earlier then the Departure Day.
  • Signing up to any of our trips and any risks involved are the sole responsibility of the individual, and organizers cannot be held responsible in any way to illness, altitude sickness, injury or trauma during the trip.
  • If a traveller for some reason cannot travel on the dates, the organiser is not responsible.

Payment Details

Pay directly or choose to pay by bank transfer

To secure your spot you need to send a 25% deposit either via bank transfer or our online payment system after completing the booking form. Second payment (50%) is required by 15/4/25 and final payment (25%) is due on 15/6/25

BANK TRANSFER: MAKE SURE TO WRITE THIS REFERENCE: (GTB012 “Name & Surname”)

  • Account Name: Globaltravelbook Limited
  • Bank Address: APS Centre, Tower Street, Birkirkara, BKR 4012
  • IBAN: MT53APSB77013000000047276110011

Cancellation Policy

  • If you cancel your booking, we will offer a refund of any balance which we have not yet paid or are obliged to pay to any other Third Party. When a booking is cancelled within the month prior to departure, the remaining balance will be non refundable as well as we would be fully committed at that stage. All types of travel insurance are supposed to cover “cancellations” and for this reason we require that such travel insurance is purchased prior to travel.