We recently completed an unforgettable 9-day journey through Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan, and we cannot thank Kyrgyz Trip enough for the impeccable planning, seamless logistics, and heartfelt hospitality throughout our adventure.
From the outset, communication with the company was clear and efficient. They crafted a thoughtfully paced itinerary that balanced natural wonders, cultural immersion, and local experiences across both countries. Every destination felt curated, and the itinerary gave us a truly rich and varied understanding of Central Asia.
• Charyn Canyon & Black Canyon: Our trip began with a scenic drive from Almaty to Saty, with a stop at the dramatic Charyn Canyon. The guide gave us time to explore the striking rock formations and explained the geological and cultural significance of the site.
• Kaindy Lake: The sunken forest of Kaindy Lake was a surreal sight, and we were grateful for the guidance through the trails and photo-worthy spots.
• Kolsay Lakes Trek: The hike from Lower to Middle Kolsay Lake was well-paced and absolutely stunning. The trek was challenging in parts but manageable and worth every step for the serene mountain lake views.
• Karakol & Cultural Sites: After crossing the border, we appreciated the effort to include cultural heritage sites like the Karakol Orthodox Church and Dungan Mosque, offering insight into the region’s diversity.
• Altyn Arashan & Ala-Kul Lake: This was one of the major highlights. The off-road drive in a special army-style vehicle was exciting, and Altyn Arashan itself was pure magic—towering pine forests, alpine meadows, and soothing hot springs. The horse trek to Ala-Kul Lake was an incredible adventure and well organized, with safety and comfort carefully considered.
• Tamga, Skazka Canyon & Barskoon Waterfall: Each destination added a new dimension—from red rock fairy-tale landscapes to powerful cascading falls. Our guide ensured we had time for both exploration and rest.
The transportation was reliable and comfortable throughout. We had a spacious SUV/crossover that handled both paved and rugged terrain well. The inclusion of a special army car for the Altyn Arashan segment was a great decision for that unique journey.
Accommodation was varied and immersive—from warm and clean guesthouses to a memorable night in a yurt camp by Lake Issyk-Kul. Each location had its charm, and we were warmly welcomed by hosts wherever we stayed. Meals were generous and tasty, with a good mix of local and familiar options.
Our English-speaking guide, Alan, was knowledgeable, friendly, and extremely helpful. He was attentive to our group’s needs and went above and beyond to make sure we were comfortable and safe. He helped us understand the local customs, suggested great photo spots, and made the entire experience smooth and enriching.
This was an incredibly well-executed and value-for-money trip. For $900 USD per person, the package included full transport, accommodations, guided activities, entry fees, horse riding, and more. We never felt rushed or neglected. Instead, we felt cared for every step of the way.
We highly recommend Kyrgyz Trip to anyone planning to explore Central Asia. Whether you’re in it for the dramatic landscapes, cultural exploration, or warm hospitality, they will deliver a well-rounded and unforgettable experience.
Thank you for an amazing journey—we will cherish these memories for a lifetime.
