NOMAD MIGRATION

Feel and touch nomad life

$1465.00

Itinerary

Day 1: Bishkek – Kochkor – Naryn     Drive: 350km

Your adventure begins early in the morning as you leave Bishkek and head toward Kochkor, crossing the scenic Chui Valley.

Upon arrival, immerse yourself in local culture with a traditional felt carpet-making demonstration, where artisans showcase techniques passed down through generations. You’ll also have time to browse and purchase handmade crafts.

After lunch in Kochkor, continue toward Naryn, following the winding Naryn River through the dramatic landscapes of the Tien Shan.

By late afternoon, arrive in Naryn, check into your guesthouse, and take a short rest. In the evening, gather around a bonfire, enjoy marshmallows, and share stories under a star-filled sky — a perfect first night in the mountains.

Overnight: Tash Bashat (guest house) 

Meal: BLD

Day 2: Naryn – Shabyr         Drive: 150km 

Trekking: 2km

After breakfast, depart from Naryn and head deeper into the mountains toward Shabyr Valley — a scenic drive through remote landscapes and open valleys.

Along the way, stop near a bridge and begin a short 2 km hike (around 40 minutes) leading to the Shabyr yurt camp — your first real step into the untouched wilderness.

Upon arrival, settle into your cozy yurt and take time to explore the surroundings, soak in the atmosphere, and enjoy the peaceful mountain setting. In the evening, enjoy a hearty traditional dinner at camp and relax under the open sky.

Overnight: Shabyr (yurt camp)

Meal: BLD

Note: Shared bathroom facilities near the yurt

Day 3: Shabyr                  Trekking: 15km

Preparing for Nomad’s migration

After breakfast, set out on a scenic trek to meet local ranger Maky Baike, who will introduce you to the basics of horse riding and essential safety rules, offering a glimpse into nomadic life and traditions. You will also visit a forest nursery, where he shares his inspiring story and dedication to nature conservation.

After the morning activity, return to the yurt camp for lunch and some rest. In the afternoon, enjoy a relaxed walk through the peaceful landscapes of Shabyr Valley.

In the evening, unwind at camp with a cultural program, a traditional dinner, and warm conversations around the table — a perfect end to the day in the mountains.

Overnight: Shabyr (yurt camp)

Meal: BLD

Note: Shared bathroom facilities near the yurt

Day 4: Shabyr – Son Kol                   Drive: 50km off road drive 

The day of Nomad’s migration

Early in the morning, join a nomadic family as they begin their seasonal migration from Eki Chat Valley to Song Kol — an unforgettable experience of authentic nomadic life.

You will be divided into two groups: one joins the men, helping herd livestock and prepare for the mountain crossing, while the other assists the women in packing the yurt and household belongings.

The first group continues on horseback, driving the animals across the mountains on a 6–7 hour journey to Song Kol Lake. Meanwhile, the second group travels by truck, transporting the family’s belongings to the summer camp.

Upon arrival, help set up camp and prepare a welcoming meal, gathering together as you await the herders and animals. This shared experience offers a rare insight into teamwork, tradition, and true nomadic life in action.

Note: Those helping with the livestock must know how to ride horses and handle them safely.

Overnight: Song Kol (yurt camp)

Meal: BLD

Note: Shared bathroom facilities near the yurt

Day 5: Song Kol – Bokonbayevo village             Drive: 230km (100km off road)   

After breakfast, leave the high pastures of Song Kol and head toward Bokonbayevo, following the scenic southern shore of Issyk-Kul.

On the way, enjoy vast valleys, mountain peaks, and open pastures with grazing livestock — a true glimpse of Kyrgyz nomadic landscapes. Stop in Kochkor for lunch before continuing to Bokonbayevo.

Upon arrival, meet a local eagle hunter and witness a powerful eagle hunting demonstration — one of the most iconic traditions of Kyrgyz culture. Afterwards, enjoy dinner with the family and learn more about their way of life. In the evening, check into your guesthouse and relax after a full day of travel and experiences.

Overnight: Bokonbayevo (guest house)

Meal: BLD

Note: Shared bathroom facilities inside the building 

Day 6: Bokonbayevo – Chon Kemin       Drive: 190km

After breakfast, leave Bokonbayevo and continue your journey toward Chong-Kemin Valley.

Upon arrival, enjoy lunch at your guesthouse and take time to rest after the drive.

In the afternoon, set out on a 2-hour horseback riding experience through the valley, crossing open meadows surrounded by stunning mountain scenery — a perfect way to experience the freedom of Kyrgyz nature.

In the evening, return to the guesthouse for a traditional dinner and relax in the peaceful atmosphere of Chong-Kemin Valley.

Overnight: Tarsuu (guest house)

Meal: BLD

Day 7: Chon Kemin – Bishkek          Drive: 60km off road 

After breakfast, leave Chong-Kemin Valley and head toward Bishkek. Along the way, make a short stop to enjoy the scenery and take in the final views of Kyrgyzstan’s mountain landscapes.

Upon arrival in Bishkek, enjoy lunch, then continue with a short city experience. Feel the atmosphere of the capital, explore local streets, and enjoy free time for souvenir shopping and gifts.

In the evening, enjoy a farewell dinner with traditional Kyrgyz hospitality — a beautiful final gathering to reflect on your journey through mountains, nomadic culture, and unforgettable landscapes.

Overnight: Bishkek (hotel)

Meal: BLD

Season: 17-23 June

Duration: 7-day, 6-night

Transport: Mercedes minibus 18 seats (5-12 ppl), 4WD off road car (2-4ppl)

Guided Languages: English or Chinese

Tour style: A combined adventure and cultural experience

Price:  5-12Pax 1,465$


What’s included:


  • Accommodation: 3-4* hotels, guesthouses, yurt camp

  • Full board meal

  • Transportation with a professional driver

  • English-speaking guide during the tour

  • Entrance fees and shows

  • 0.5 L of water everyday

  • Activities mentioned in the tour

What’s not included:


  • International air fares

  • Hotel charges for additional services

  • Insurance (required)

  • Personal expenses, e.g. souvenirs

  • Gratuity to (guides & drivers)

  • Single stay 25$ extra per night

  • Chinese guide 300$ extra per group per tour


Season & Weather

  • Time: June

  • Lowlands: 20–25 °C | High mountains: 0–15 °C

  • Evenings in high-altitude areas (Song Kol, Shabyr) can be chilly

  • Occasional rain showers in spring and early summer

Clothing & Footwear

  • Light, breathable layers for daytime; warm layers for evenings

  • Waterproof & windproof jacket

  • Comfortable trekking/hiking shoes with good grip

  • Hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen for high-altitude sun

Gear & Accessories

  • Small daypack, reusable water bottle

  • Headlamp/flashlight, power bank, personal medications

  • Rain cover for backpack, quick-dry towel

  • Swimwear for Issyk-Kul or hot springs

  • Snacks for dietary needs

Accommodation

  • Hotels, guesthouses, traditional yurt camps

  • Guesthouses: family-run, home-cooked meals

  • Yurts: cozy, simple, shared facilities, limited electricity

  • Please be aware that accommodation in yurts is shared, with separate areas for men and women.

Meals

  • Traditional Kyrgyz cuisine throughout

  • Vegetarian options on request

  • Lunches at local family houses offer authentic experiences

Transport & Road Conditions

  • Long drives in mountains: 2–7 hours daily, some off-road and bumpy sections

  • Horseback rides require basic riding skills, especially when helping with livestock at Song Kol

Electricity & Connectivity

  • Limited electricity in remote areas; charge devices when possible

  • Weak mobile coverage in mountains — perfect for a digital detox

Health & Altitude

  • Some areas reach 3,000–3,200m a.s.l.

  • Mild altitude symptoms possible: shortness of breath, fatigue

  • Stay hydrated and bring necessary medications

  • Please bring all necessary medications with you

Cultural Tips

  • Dress modestly in villages and when visiting families

  • Ask before photographing locals

  • Small gifts (sweets, postcards) for host families are appreciated

Special Notes for This Trip

  • Nomadic migration experience at Song Kol: Only participants confident on horseback should join livestock herding.