Lakes & Nature in Kyrgyzstan

If you come to Kyrgyzstan for one thing, it's the landscape. The country is dominated by the Tien Shan range, and between the peaks sit some of Central Asia's most beautiful lakes, canyons and valleys.

Issyk-Köl is the giant: a vast, slightly saline lake that never freezes, ringed by snow peaks and dotted with beaches, resorts and quiet villages. It's the natural base for exploring the east. Song-Köl, higher and wilder, is a treeless alpine lake surrounded by summer pastures and yurt camps, famous for its huge skies and star-filled nights. Add the red rock formations of Skazka (Fairytale) Canyon, the granite gorge of Ala-Archa near Bishkek, and Konorchek's canyon badlands, and you have months of exploring.

Where to focus:

• Issyk-Köl for beaches, easy access and lakeside stays, good from late spring to early autumn.
• Song-Köl for remote camping and pastoral life, best in high summer when the camps are open.
• Canyons and parks such as Ala-Archa, Skazka and Konorchek for day hikes close to the main towns.

We can put together anything from a relaxed lakeside break to a nature-focused loop taking in several parks and lakes. Tell us whether you want swimming and comfort or remote camping, and we'll shape the trip around it.