5 ideas for guided tours in Kyrgyzstan

• Osh

  The city of Osh, nestled at the foot of the Pamir Mountains, will captivate you with its rich culture, natural beauty, and legendary hospitality. Here are some must-visit places during your stay.

  – Osh Bazaar: The largest market in Central Asia, where you can find everything from fresh fruits and vegetables to fragrant spices, colorful rugs, handmade jewelry, and traditional clothing. You can also sample local delicacies such as plov (pilaf rice), manty (meat dumplings), and koumiss (fermented mare’s milk).

  – Babur Mausoleum: The resting place of the founder of the Mughal Empire, who was born in Osh in 1483. Admire the elegant architecture of the monument, adorned with blue and white mosaics, and soak in the spiritual atmosphere of the site.

  – Sulayman-Too Fortress: A set of ruins dating back to the 11th century, bearing witness to Osh’s glorious past. The fortress once served as the political and religious center of the region, housing a mosque, a madrasa (Islamic school), and an astronomical observatory.

• Jety-Oguz Valley

  During your visit to Jety-Oguz, don’t miss the famous rock formations known as the “Seven Bulls.” These massive reddish rocks, standing like silent guardians, create a breathtaking spectacle.

  If you’re a hiking enthusiast, lace up your boots and set off to explore the surrounding peaks. The ascent to Mount Oguz-Bashi rewards you with a panoramic view of the entire valley, while the trail leading to the Broken Heart Waterfall immerses you in a fairytale-like setting.

• Lake Köl Ukök

  This high-altitude lake is located in the Naryn region, in southeastern Kyrgyzstan, near the border with China. It is a dream destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

  Reaching Lake Köl Ukök requires following a trail that winds through breathtaking landscapes. Cross lush meadows, traverse dense forests, and encounter refreshing waterfalls along the way. The lake, situated at an altitude of 3,040 meters, stretches over 4 kilometers and is surrounded by towering peaks exceeding 4,000 meters.

  A true haven of peace, Lake Köl Ukök offers a perfect retreat to recharge and enjoy the silence. You can swim in its turquoise waters, go kayaking, trek along scenic paths, or explore the area on horseback.

• Ala-Archa National Park

  Located about two hours from Osh, the Ala-Archa National Park spans over 2,000 km² and is home to diverse flora and fauna. Here, you can enjoy hiking or horseback riding, climb snow-capped peaks, admire waterfalls and crystal-clear lakes, or simply breathe in the fresh mountain air.

  For an even more enriching experience, explore this extraordinary place with a tourist guide in Kyrgyzstan, who will reveal the wonders and secrets of this unique region. During your visit, don’t miss the hike to the Ak-Sai Mountain Base Camp. As you ascend, you’ll be rewarded with stunning jagged ridges, glaciers, and lush green valleys.

• Issyk-Kul Lake

  The saltwater Issyk-Kul Lake, situated at over 1,600 meters above sea level, is the second-largest alpine lake in the world after Lake Titicaca. It offers an exceptional panorama of the snow-capped peaks of the Tian Shan Mountains, which encircle it like a natural fortress.

  Its name means “warm lake” in Kyrgyz, as it never freezes despite its altitude and continental climate. Fed by more than 80 rivers and streams, it boasts a remarkable ecological diversity. The lake is home to more than 20 endemic fish species, along with a rich variety of flora and fauna.

  You can also visit the many natural sites surrounding the region, such as the Barskoon Gorge, the Skazka Waterfall, or the Jety-Oguz Canyon.

  For water sports enthusiasts, the region offers many beaches along the lake, especially on the northern shore, where the popular Cholpon Ata is located. For a quieter experience, opt for Tamchy or Tosor.