2-Days in Song Kul Lake as Nomad – horseback riding & Yurt stay

Planning a trip to Kyrgyzstan? This 2-day adventure around Song-Kul Lake has earned a perfect 5-star rating, and it’s easy to see why. It offers a chance to see the country’s stunning high-altitude landscapes, experience traditional nomadic life, and enjoy some memorable horseback riding—all in one package.

What really stands out? The friendly, knowledgeable guides, the breathtaking scenery, and the authentic yurt experience. On the flip side, this tour requires a fair amount of time on the road, so if you’re looking for a quick city escape, this might not be your best fit. But if you crave scenic adventure and culture, this tour hits the sweet spot. It’s ideal for those who love outdoors, history, and a taste of the nomadic Kyrgyz way of life.

Key Points

• Authentic Nomadic Experience: Spend a night in a traditional yurt under the stars.
• Stunning Scenery: Highlights include Song-Kul Lake, Boom Gorge, and the surrounding mountains.
• Active and Cultural: Horseback riding, visits to Burana Tower, and a Kyrgyz family lunch.
• Expert Guides: Guides like Zhoodar and Tari bring insights and humor to your experience.
• Convenient Transport: Air-conditioned 4×4 with hotel pickup and drop-off.
• Value for Money: For $400, you get a comprehensive, well-organized trip with multiple highlights.

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

The Journey Begins with Scenic Drive and Cultural Stops

Starting in Bishkek, the trip kicks off with a comfortable, air-conditioned transfer that takes you on a roughly 80 km drive toward the highlands. The first stop is Burana Tower, an ancient minaret from the medieval period, offering spectacular views from the top. Here, you’ll get a glimpse into Kyrgyz history through archaeological artifacts and ancient rock carvings. Reviewers like Matt highlight how guides like Zhoodar add depth, explaining the significance of the site while pointing out the mausoleums and gravestones. It’s a brief but fascinating introduction to Kyrgyzstan’s past.

Following Burana, the route crosses Boom Gorge, a geological marvel carved by the Chu River. The gorge’s diverse landscapes—green slopes suddenly giving way to rocky canyons—make for a visually stunning stop. Enjoy snacks, tea, and conversation here, with reviewers praising the authentic experience of sipping tea from a Russian samovar and sampling puff cakes.

Further along, the Orto-Tokoy Water Reservoir offers panoramic views where clouds seem to dip into the water. It’s a peaceful spot to stretch your legs and snap photos before heading into the mountains.

Climbing to the High Passes and Reaching Song-Kul Lake

The ascent to Song-Kul is a highlight, with the road winding up to Kalmak-Ashuu, a mountain pass where yaks graze peacefully and wild edelweiss bloom. This is where the landscape transforms dramatically—stony dunes, lush meadows, and towering peaks come into view. Reviewers like Avi mention how their guides, Tari and Taku, made the journey enjoyable and informative, emphasizing the scenery and local life.

Finally, around late afternoon, you arrive at your yurt camp on the shores of Song-Kul Lake. The setting is breathtaking—crystal-clear water, expansive skies, and mountains in the distance. Guests can relax, explore, or simply enjoy the endless views. As night falls, a campfire under the stars becomes a memorable moment described by travelers as both peaceful and awe-inspiring.

Day Two: Horseback Riding & Nature’s Best

Mornings start with a hearty breakfast, after which the adventure continues with a 3-hour horseback ride. The ride takes you toward a small waterfall nestled in the mountains—perfect for photos and appreciating Kyrgyz nature. According to reviewers like Naoko, the ride isn’t just about the waterfall but about the journey through scenic pastures and mountain trails. The horses are well-behaved, and guides support beginners, making it accessible.

As you ride back to the camp, you’ll get a panoramic view of Song-Kul Lake from a hilltop—an unforgettable photo opportunity. The trip continues by car, passing through the Kochkor village where you’ll stop for a Kyrgyz family lunch, a chance to taste authentic local cuisine.

On the way back to Bishkek, you’ll explore the 33 Parrots Waterfall, located along the serpentine road over the Turk-Torpok Pass. This drive is often praised for its dramatic switchbacks, with reviewers noting the experience of winding over 3000 meters of elevation, making for an exhilarating return journey.

Practical Details and Value

The tour includes hotel pickup in Bishkek, air-conditioned transport, and all accommodations—an important factor considering the remote nature of the stops. The cost of $400 per person reflects a comprehensive experience, covering multiple iconic sites, horseback riding, authentic meals, and an overnight in a yurt. Reviewers point out that the guides’ expertise and the well-organized logistics make this a worthwhile investment, especially considering the memorable scenery and cultural insights.

What We Appreciate

• The guides’ local knowledge and friendly attitude make a huge difference. Many reviews mention how guides like Zhoodar, Tari, Tenghis, Urmat, and Talgat bring the experience alive with stories and humor.
• The scenery—from the lush valleys to mountain peaks—is genuinely breathtaking. The combination of natural beauty and cultural stops makes this more than just a sightseeing tour.
• The authenticity of staying in a yurt and participating in traditional nomadic activities sets this apart from more commercialized tours.
• Good value for money: All major highlights, transportation, meals, and overnight stay are included, making it a well-rounded package.

Things to Keep in Mind

The 2-day schedule involves quite a bit of driving—around 80 km from Bishkek to Burana, then winding through mountain passes, and returning over serpentine roads. If you prefer very relaxed travel or are sensitive to long drives, this might feel a bit intensive. Also, weather can impact plans, especially in mountain passes, so be prepared for potential changes or cancellations. Reviewers note that the experience generally relies on good weather, but the company offers a full refund if canceled due to poor conditions.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience suits travelers who want to see Kyrgyzstan’s stunning landscapes, enjoy horseback riding, and get an authentic taste of nomadic life—all in a short time. It’s perfect for adventure seekers, culture enthusiasts, and those looking for a meaningful outdoor experience. If you’re traveling with family, friends, or solo, the private nature of the tour makes it flexible and personalized.

If your main goal is a relaxed city break or minimal travel time, this might not be ideal. But for those craving mountain vistas, culture, and active days, this tour delivers on all fronts.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour includes air-conditioned ground transfers with hotel pickup and drop-off in Bishkek.

What is the duration of the trip?
The entire experience lasts approximately 2 days, with most of the time spent traveling, sightseeing, and participating in activities.

Are meals included?
Yes, the tour covers breakfast, a Kyrgyz family lunch, and dinner on the first night. Meals are traditional and authentic, offering a real taste of Kyrgyz hospitality.

Can beginners ride horses?
Most reviewers mention that guides provide support, making it accessible for beginners. Horses are well-behaved, and support is available if needed.

What’s the accommodation like?
Guests stay overnight in traditional yurts, which are comfortable and offer an authentic nomadic experience. Many travelers say they enjoyed the chance to sleep under the stars.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the active and outdoor nature suggests it’s best suited for older children or teenagers comfortable with outdoor activities and mountain drives.

What happens in case of bad weather?
The company offers a full refund if the trip is canceled due to weather conditions. The itinerary can be flexible if needed.

How far in advance should I book?
Most travelers book about 34 days ahead. It’s advisable to reserve early, as the tour is popular and can fill up quickly.

Final Thoughts

This 2-day tour to Song-Kul Lake offers a rare glimpse into Kyrgyzstan’s natural beauty and nomadic traditions. The combination of scenic drives, horseback riding, and yurt stays creates a memorable experience that’s both active and culturally enriching. With expert guides, authentic meals, and stunning landscapes, it’s a great choice for those who want a deeper connection to Kyrgyzstan’s outdoors and heritage.

While the travel involves some long drives and mountain passes, the rewards are worth it—the chance to see the country’s iconic lakes, meet local herders, and sleep under a canopy of stars. Perfect for adventure lovers, culture enthusiasts, and anyone looking for a meaningful escape into Kyrgyzstan’s wild and welcoming heart.

Note: Always check weather conditions and confirm bookings ahead of time, especially for mountain passes or if traveling during unpredictable seasons. Enjoy your journey into Kyrgyzstan’s rugged, beautiful landscape!