| Starts | Tashkent, Uzbekistan |
|---|---|
| Ends | Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan |
| Region | Kyrgyzstan |
| Duration | 16 days |
| Tour Operator | Intrepid Travel |
Itinerary
Day 1 - Starting: Tashkent & Finishing: Tashkent
An old Soviet city, Uzbekistan’s bustling capital has fascinating and intricate history. Wander the city streets or maybe visit one of the many museums. Perhaps peruse the stalls of the Chorsu Bazaar and pick up some fresh fruit or souvenirs.
Day 2 - Starting: Fergana & Finishing: Fergana
Drive from Tashkent to the city of Fergana. Stop en route at Kokand – the intersection of ancient trade routes – in the pretty Fergana Valley.
Day 3 - Starting: Arlsanbob & Finishing: Arlsanbob
Cross the border into Kyrgyzstan and journey out to Arslanbob on the eastern edge of the Ferghana Valley. There is some excellent hiking in these parts through lush greenery and wild walnut forest. Don’t forget your camera!
Day 4-6 - Starting: Fergana & Finishing: Fergana
Travel overland through the stunning Kyrgyz Fergana Valley. See rivers meander through the picturesque valleys as rugged mountain ranges loom majestically in the distance.
Day 7-8 - Starting: Song-Kol Lake & Finishing: Song-Kol Lake
Head out to Song-Kol Lake and enjoy some free time exploring the area. Choose to go hiking or horse riding – or maybe watch a game of goat polo. It’s just like regular polo but there’s a goat carcass instead of a ball. Tonight, sleep in a traditional yurt.
Day 9 - Starting: Kochkor & Finishing: Kochkor
Journey to the village of Kochkor. Visit a women’s co-operative and learn how shyrdaks (traditional felt carpets) are made. Enjoy the beautiful hospitality of local Kyrgyz people – feel really privileged to be welcomed into their homes.
Day 10-11 - Starting: Djety Oguz Valley & Finishing: Djety Oguz Valley
Be mesmerised by the magnificent alpine region of Jeti-Oghuz. Don your hiking boots and go explore the wild surrounds – there are walks all round the canyon and valley.
Day 12 - Starting: Karakol & Finishing: Karakol
Formally known as Przhevalsk, the Russian-style city of Karakol exudes a quiet charm. Located not far from Issyk Kul Lake, the city is home to a gorgeous wooden mosque built by Chinese artisans in the early 20th century. It also hosts a fantastic livestock market on Sundays.
Day 13-14 - Starting: Chong Kemin NP & Finishing: Chong Kemin NP
Explore the spectacular landscape of Chong Kemin National Park. There is a good chance you will meet nomadic Kyrgyz families in these parts – stop and say hello!
Day 15 - Starting: Bishkek & Finishing: Bishkek
Those feeling energetic might want to squeeze in one last hike this morning before we drive out to the city of Bishkek. Why not explore the myriad museums in the city centre or pick up some local handicrafts and souvenirs at Osh Bazaar, Bishkek’s largest market, before our journey comes to an end.
