Trekking
at Son-Kul Lake

14 jours Max. 8 participants 9 jours de marche Kirghizstan

This trek is not particularly difficult, however, good physical fitness and prior hiking experience are strongly recommended.

Kyrgyzstan landscape
Yurt in a valley
Son-Kul Trek
Camel in Central Asia

June to September — contact us for departure dates

Specialists in equestrian tourism since 2001, we have also been organising hiking treks for 10 years. On a route combining variety, discovery and adventure, you will cross one of Kyrgyzstan's richest regions in Kyrgyz traditions.

Meet Kyrgyz shepherds and share their way of life on this timeless trek. Enjoy the comfort of yurts, discover truly wild nature, and immerse yourself in the culture of these nomadic herding peoples.

A unique and off-the-beaten-track discovery of the country.

Key feature: In the spirit of keeping the walking pace and uninterrupted adventure, this trek involves no transfers mid-route.
Yurt near Keguetti — panorama

On all our routes we plan yurt and tent stages, but accommodation type may vary, nomads being, by definition, mobile. When staying in a yurt, guests are also welcome to prefer the privacy of their own tent !

Throughout the route you will be able to observe the local wildlife (birds of prey, deer, mountain sheep, marmots, yaks), and herbs used in traditional local medicine. Our Kyrgyz friends will welcome you in their family yurt as we cross their pastures.

Vous assisterez à la préparation du plat national, le "Bech Barmak" (cinq doigts en Kirghize) à base de mouton, the milking of mares, and you will drink their milk (koumiss). If you feel like it, the "tchabane" (Kyrgyz cowboy) will welcome your help rounding up the herd de moutons ou ramener les juments pour la traite.

The traditional warm hospitality of the nomads will leave you with the lasting memory of a people who have preserved their way of life across the centuries et despite the vicissitudes of politics.

The itinerary is indicative. Depending on the season (mainly on the condition of mountain passes) the route may sometimes be slightly modified without affecting its quality.
Son-Kul Lake — trek panorama

The trek in detail

Physical level

The trek is not particularly demanding, however good physical fitness and prior hiking experience are strongly recommended.

Walking hours

Between 4 and 8 hours per day depending on the terrain.
Typical day: departure at 8:30–9am, lunch break and rest from noon to 1–2pm, arrival at camp around 5–6pm. A briefing after the first day helps determine the optimal schedule for everyone.

Accommodation

We provide comfortable mattresses for all types of accommodation.
At camp: Quechua tents, 2 people per 3-person tent (single tents available on request).
In guest houses: with locals, sleeping on mattresses.
In yurts: mattresses laid on felt floor rugs.

Accompagnement & portage

The trek is accompanied by 2-3 horses carrying the lunch and allowing tired walkers to rest without slowing the group (especially useful for river crossings). Two guides accompany the trek. A logistics vehicle meets the group every evening with all personal belongings and the cook.

It is essential to inform us before booking of any medical condition, chronic or otherwise, allergies, medication dependence (diabetes etc.) or any other physical condition that may require special attention.

What's included

Included in the price
  • Airport transfers
  • Bishkek → start/end transfers
  • All nights
  • Equipped pack horses
  • Guides and grooms
  • French/English-speaking interpreter
  • Tents
  • All meals
  • Entry to botanical/zoological reserves
Not included
  • Transport to Bishkek
  • Medical costs and vaccinations
  • Visas and airport taxes
  • Sleeping bag and personal gear
  • Personal drinks and extras
  • Personal insurance