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Overview
Book online and enjoy exclusive savings on G Adventures 12 Day Kyrgyzstan & Kazakhstan: Colourful Canyons & Nomadic Living. Ready for a wild ride through Central Asia? This 12-day adventure through Kyrgyzstan and Kazakhstan is the perfect mashup of jaw-dropping landscapes and deep cultural dives. Hike through canyons that look like they belong on another planet, listen to the desert sing beneath your feet, and learn how to build a yurt like the nomads do. From village stays and yurt workshops to city streets buzzing with history in Bishkek and Almaty — this is one epic journey where nature stuns, read more culture shines, and every day brings something totally unexpected.
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Our Price From
US$1,529 per person
Price shown based on twin share
Save up to $285 per person
Trip Length
12 Days
Trip Starts
Bishkek
Trip Ends
Almaty
Departures
May 2026 to Oct 2027
Countries Visited:
Kyrgyzstan Kazakhstan
Operator
G Adventures
Trip Style
18-to-Thirtysomethings
Budget
Affordable
Age Range
18-39 Years
Pace
Moderate
Guide Style
Fully Guided
Tour Code
AYBC
Itinerary
Arrive at any time. Join your new crew this evening at a welcome moment before heading out for your first night out! Grab a bubbly (water or beer) if you choose and get to know your new travel friends in Kyrgyzstan!
Accommodation:
Cozy Hotel
Included Experiences
- Meet Your CEO and Group: Your opportunity to meet your CEO and fellow travellers, and learn more about your tour. Opt to join the group for a local meal afterwards. Don't forget to see the notice in the lobby (or ask reception) for the official time and place to meet up with the group.
- Connect With New Friends: Connect with new friends on your first night out in a new destination. Only available on 18-to-Thirtysomethings tours.
Today is yours for adventure through Bishkek, the capital city of Kyrgyzstan. After an orientation walk to get your bearings, spend the rest of the day seeing the city how you'd like. Opt to join a guided tour of the city or learn to make local Kyrgyz dumplings called manti.
Accommodation:
Cozy Hotel
Included Meals:
Dinner
Included Experiences
- Bishkek Orientation Walk: Join your CEO to get to know the city of Bishkek. Visit notable spots like Osh Market and see the neighborhood. Your CEO will point out restaurants, bars, coffee shops and supermarkets while teaching you how to navigate the city.
- Free Time: The rest of the day is yours to explore Bishkek.
Optional Experiences
- Bishkek City Tour: Get to know the capital of Kyrgyzstan better on a guided tour. See the highlights of the city like Ala-Too Square, the Paramount Kyrgyz Republic Flag, the Manas Statue of the hero of Kyrgyzstan and the Eternal Flame in Victory Square.
- Kyrgyz Dumpling Making: Learn to make the delicious Kyrgyz steamed dumplings known as manti. Filled with a variety of meats and veggies, knead some dough and make some of these flavorful Kyrgyz snack.
Visit the historic Burana Tower on the way to Iskra Village where we will enjoy a yummy lunch with a Dungan family, a group of Muslim-Chinese heritage. After spending time with the family and digging into the yummy food, drive to Chom Kemin for the night.
Accommodation:
Jekshen Guest House Chon Kemin
Included Meals:
Lunch, Dinner
Included Experiences
- Iskra Village Dungan Family Lunch: Enjoy an intimate and delicious local lunch in the family home of a local Dungan family, of Chinese-Hui Muslim minority group. Learn about the history of their migration, their tradition, and then try a traditional Dungan Chinese meal.
- Burana Tower Visit: Visit the historical site of Burana and climb the stairs to check out the view from the top. A large minaret, along with some grave markers and remnants of a castle and mausoleums, are all that remain of the 9th century city of Balasagun.
Start today with an easy hike up to the Shatyly view point. Take in the view from above before hiking back down for some free time at camp. Take a dip if you wish in Issyk Kul Lake, meaning "Warm Lake" in Kyrgyz. In the afternoon, visit the famous Fairytale Canyon, Skazka. Walk through the wild rock formations that resemble castles and gnome homes. Then enjoy a relaxing evening on the shores of Issyk Kul Lake.
Accommodation:
YurtCamp tosor Tonya
Included Meals:
Breakfast, Dinner
Included Experiences
- Shatyly View Point Hike: Hike through the gradual hills of Kyrgyzstan up to the incredible panoramic view of Shatyly. On this easy hike, admire the spectacular views all around you, especially of the lake spanning in the distance.
- Free Time: Enjoy some free time on the shores of Issyk Kul Lake.
- Skazka "Fairytale" Canyon: On the Southern Shore of Lake Issyk Kul, visit the breathtaking Skazka Canyon, also known as the Fairytale Canyon. It's nickname speaks for itself, with natural rock formations that tower like princess castles in faraway lands.
After breakfast at camp, hike to the beautiful Barskoon Waterfall. I mean, who doesn't love a little waterfall adventure? Then head to Ak Orgo, a G Adventures-supported project that helps bring much-needed job opportunities to the Barskoon region. We'll dig into some lunch then learn how to build a yurt (like the one we're staying in here in Tamga!) Then head back to camp and take a dip in the lake.
Accommodation:
YurtCamp tosor Tonya
Included Meals:
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Included Experiences
- Barskoon Waterfall: Hike to the frothy Barskoon Waterfall and watch as the rushing water cascades down the cliff. In addition to the waterfall, we'll see bright red reds and interesting rock carvings on display for us!
- Free Time: Enjoy some free time for leisure and to swim in Issyk Kul Lake.
- Yurt Building Demonstration: Visit the Ak-Orgo workshop, a G Adventures-supported project working to preserve Kyrgyz traditions and create employment opportunities in Barskoon. Observe how traditional yurts are built.
Drive to Karakol this morning and join your CEO on an orientation walk, the perfect way to start your time in Karakol and get to know this city a bit better. Then the day is yours for adventure! Opt to visit the colorful Dungan Mosque, Karakol Market or the impressive Russian Orthodox Church.
Accommodation:
Madanur Hotel
Included Meals:
Breakfast
Included Experiences
- Free Time: Spend today free time wander through Karakol!
- Karakol Orientation Walk: Get your bearings in the great city of Karakol on this CEO-guided orientation walk.
Optional Experiences
- Russian Orthodox Holy Trinity Cathedral Visit: Stop by Karakol's cathedral to admire the unique architecture. This beautiful wooden church was built in 1895, after the old structure was destroyed by an earthquake and is still used for services on sundays.
- Dungan Mosque: Visit this colourful mosque originally built in 1910 that almost resembles a Buddhist temple. This is the only mosque in the area and definitely worth checking out. The word Dungan in the temple name is a term from the Soviet-era referring to the ethnic group of Muslims of Chinese descent. The people themselves, however, call themselves Hui.
Fill up on breakfast before heading out for a free day in Karakol. How about a tour of the city? Or maybe get back out into nature with visits to the spectacular Jety Oguz or Aksu Kench hot springs!
Accommodation:
Madanur Hotel
Included Meals:
Breakfast
Included Experiences
- Free Time: A full day free in Karakol means a day full of adventure!
Optional Experiences
- Jety Oguz & the Seven Bulls: Visit the stunning Seven Bulls in the Jety Oguz mountain area. Watch as the bright red sandstone seemingly changes color hues as the sun reflects off the unique rock formations. We'll have a picturesque picnic lunch in the valley that is blanketed in colorful flowers in the spring. Then hike to the Jety Oguz view point on a 1.5 hour roundtrip moderate hike.
- Ak-Suu Kench Hot Springs: Take a dip in the warm hot springs of Ak-Suu.
Cross the border into Kazakhstan, stopping for a scenic picnic lunch along the way. Then climb into a 4x4 vehicle to visit the stunning Kaindy Lake. Grab your camera and get ready for some jaw-dropping views. This evening, connect with local Kazakh culture at our Saty Village homestay.
Accommodation:
Zhuldyz Guest House
Included Meals:
Breakfast, Dinner
Included Experiences
- 4x4: Jump in a 4x4 vehicle to get off-road in Kazakhstan.
- Border Crossing (Kyrgyzstan - Kazakhstan): Ready for a little more ink in your passport? Grab your bags and get ready to check another country off your bucket list.
- Saty Village Stay: Be immersed in Kazakh culture during a homestay near the Kolsay Lakes National Park. Eat a traditional dinner and marvel at the mountain range and forests surrounding the village.
- Kaindy Lake Hike Visit: Visit the perfectly turquoise colored Kaindy Lake. In this unique lake, you can see spruce trees sticking out of the crystal water. This sunken forest will leave you in awe of its beauty.
Get ready to see red... red rocks and canyons we mean! Our first stop of the day is to Charyn Canyon. Full of different shades of reds, oranges, and browns, the beautiful Charyn Canyon is often compared to the Grand Canyon. Then continue on to Altyn Emel National Park where more red and orange rocks make up this beautiful landscape.
Accommodation:
Algai Quinn Guesthouse
Included Meals:
Breakfast, Dinner
Included Experiences
- Charyn Canyon Visit: Enjoy the views of the beautiful Charyn Canyon. Breathe the fresh air and snap a few photos of this stunning landscape.
Right on the bank of the Ili river sits the beautiful golden Singing Sand Dunes. On a windy day, when the sad moves across the dunes, it produces a low-pitched humming sound, giving it its name. Get your body moving as you trek through the sand. Return to the guest house for a well-deserved lunch before driving to Almaty. Then join your crew and CEO for an orientation walk.
Accommodation:
Mildom Express Hotel
Included Meals:
Breakfast, Lunch
Included Experiences
- Almaty Orientation Walk: Enjoy the chance to see Almaty on this orientation walk led by your CEO.
- Singing Dunes: Wander across the drifting sand at the seemingly unending Singing sand dunes. Hike through the dunes and take in the breathtaking views of snow capped mountains in the distance.
Almaty is on full display as you get to choose your own adventure through the city. We recommend a city tour to connect with Kazakhstani culture. Then see the city come to life at night on your Big Night Out!
Accommodation:
Mildom Express Hotel
Included Experiences
- Free Time: A full free day in Almaty is on the docket for today!
- Big Night Out Almaty: See the beautiful city of Almaty light up with lights when we head out for a Big Night Out with the crew. Grab a drink of choice and enjoy the Kazakhstani night life!
Optional Experiences
- Almaty City Tour: Get to know Almaty on a city tour, visiting the most stunning sights. Stop by the colourful Ascension Cathedral, constructed entirely of wood without the use of any nails. It survived an earthquake in 1911 and continues to stand today. Walk through Panfilov's Park and the historical part of the city. Visit the new part of Almaty known as Independence Square, and stop by the WWII Memorial.
Depart at any time.
Trip Inclusions
- Marvel at the colourful rock formations of Skazka Canyon and Charyn Canyon.
- Feel the desert hum beneath your feet at Kazakhstan’s Singing Dunes.
- Stay with local families in Saty and enjoy a home-cooked Dungan lunch in Iskra Village.
- Learn to build a traditional yurt alongside nomadic experts.
- Soak up the local energy in the cultural hubs of Bishkek and Almaty.
- Your G for Good Moment: Yurt Building Demonstration, Barskoon
- Your Welcome Moment: Meet Your CEO and Group
- Your First Night Out Moment: Connect With New Friends
- Your Big Night Out Moment: Almaty, Almaty
- Free Time in Bishkek
- Bishkek Orientation Walk
- Burana Tower Visit
- Iskra Village Dungan Family Lunch
- Shatyly View Point Hike
- Free Time in Tamga, Skazka "Fairytale" Canyon
- Barskoon Waterfall
- Yurt Building Demonstration
- Karakol Orientation Walk
- Free Time in Karakol
- Kaindy Lake Hike Visit
- Saty Village Stay
- Charyn Canyon Visit
- Singing Dunes
- Almaty Orientation Walk
- Free Time in Almaty
- All transport between destinations and to/from included activities
- Private Vehicle, Walking, Train, 4x4 Vehicle
- CEO (Chief Experience Officer) throughout
- Hostel (4 Nights, Multi-share), Guesthouse (5 Nights, Multi-share), Yurt Camp (2 Nights, Multi-share)
- 7 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 6 dinners
- Accommodation, itinerary and inclusions subject to change.
- Price is for land, cruise and internal flights as specified. Flights not specified are not included.
Operator
G Adventures came from a desire to deliver authentic and responsible small group travel adventures that were equally life-changing for travellers and the communities they visit. And we’re been doing just that for almost 30 years. Our award-winning trips span seven continents and over 100 countries, giving you meaningful more experiences with people, cultures, landscapes and wildlife, as well as offering you the freedom and flexibility to explore on your own.
On all of our tours, you get to know locals every step of the way, from the places you visit and stay to where you eat and drink. You’ll also get to experience our ‘G for Good’ social impact initiatives on-trip, including our industry-leading ‘Ripple Score’. This score measures, as a percentage, the amount of money that stays in the local community through on-trip services like accommodation, restaurants and transport.
On all of our tours, you get to know locals every step of the way, from the places you visit and stay to where you eat and drink. You’ll also get to experience our ‘G for Good’ social impact initiatives on-trip, including our industry-leading ‘Ripple Score’. This score measures, as a percentage, the amount of money that stays in the local community through on-trip services like accommodation, restaurants and transport.
Trip Style: 18-to-Thirtysomethings
Built for young travelers ready to break free from the everyday grind, these trips bring together a safe and supportive group of like-minded people in their twenties and early thirties.
Connect on the First Night Out, explore with a Chief Experience Officer (CEO), enjoy free time, and celebrate unforgettable moments with new friends - without breaking the bank. Travel confidently, respectfully, and affordably.
Dates & Pricing
USD
Friday
24 Apr 2026
24 Apr 26
Bishkek
Tuesday
05 May 2026
05 May 26
Almaty
Details
Definite Departure
Our Price
US$1,799
Twin Share (Per Personpp)
Sold Out
Note
A definite departure means minimum numbers have been reached for this departure to operate. Your Global Journeys Travel Advisor will check the availability of your departure date when you Inquire. Additional savings may apply. T&C’s apply.
A definite departure means minimum numbers have been reached for this departure to operate. Your Global Journeys Travel Advisor will check the availability of your departure date when you Inquire. Additional savings may apply. T&C’s apply.
Note
Tour & cruises prices are per person. Prices shown have savings applied, are subject to availability and may be withdrawn at any time without notice. Pricing and trip details are correct at this point in time, however are subject to confirmation at the time of booking and are subject to change by G Adventures. For cruise itineraries, cabin images are sourced from the cruise-line and should be treated as indicative only. Cabin inclusions, upholsteries and room layout may differ to the image(s) shown depending on the ship selected and your sailing dates.
Tour & cruises prices are per person. Prices shown have savings applied, are subject to availability and may be withdrawn at any time without notice. Pricing and trip details are correct at this point in time, however are subject to confirmation at the time of booking and are subject to change by G Adventures. For cruise itineraries, cabin images are sourced from the cruise-line and should be treated as indicative only. Cabin inclusions, upholsteries and room layout may differ to the image(s) shown depending on the ship selected and your sailing dates.
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