13 Days Kyrgyzstan Mountain Biking Adventure — Song-Kul, Issyk-Kul & High Mountain Passes
Tour Overview
This adventure is designed for experienced cyclists seeking remote mountain trails, challenging passes, pristine alpine lakes and authentic nomadic experiences.
Begin your journey in Bishkek and travel toward the historic Burana Tower and beautiful Kegeti Gorge. Explore the spectacular Kol-Tor Lake area before tackling the challenging mountain routes leading toward Eastern Karakol Valley.
Continue across remote valleys and mountain passes toward Kilemche Valley and Song-Kul Lake, where traditional Kyrgyz nomads spend their summers in yurts surrounded by vast alpine pastures.
Experience the unforgettable landscapes of Song-Kul before continuing through remote mountain terrain toward Kara-Kujur Valley and the natural hot springs of Jily-Suu.
Discover the beautiful high-altitude Teshik-Kol Lake and prepare for one of the expedition's greatest challenges: crossing Tosor Pass, reaching approximately 3,893 meters above sea level.
Descend toward the spectacular Issyk-Kul Lake, surrounded by the magnificent Tian Shan Mountains.
Complete your adventure with a visit to the colorful Skazka Canyon before returning to Bishkek.
Throughout the journey, enjoy traditional Kyrgyz hospitality, local guesthouses, wilderness camping and unforgettable mountain scenery.
This expedition is ideal for experienced mountain bikers, outdoor enthusiasts and adventure travelers seeking a demanding journey through the wild landscapes of Kyrgyzstan.
Why Choose This Tour
This expedition combines challenging mountain cycling, alpine lakes, traditional nomadic culture and spectacular wilderness camping.
Experience the thrill of crossing mountain passes, cycling through remote valleys and discovering extraordinary natural destinations such as Song-Kul Lake, Teshik-Kol Lake and Issyk-Kul Lake.
Travel with Kyrgyz Nature Travel Company and enjoy locally organized expedition logistics, a cycling guide and support transportation.
This tour is designed for experienced cyclists who appreciate demanding terrain, outdoor adventure and authentic cultural experiences.
Tour Highlights
- 13-day high-altitude mountain biking expedition
- Visit the historic Burana Tower
- Discover the beautiful Kegeti Gorge
- Explore the turquoise Kol-Tor Lake
- Cross the spectacular Kegeti Pass
- Cycle through the remote Eastern Karakol Valley
- Discover Kyzart Pass and Kilemche Valley
- Cross Tuz-Ashuu Pass toward Song-Kul Lake
- Experience traditional nomadic life at Song-Kul
- Enjoy a rest and exploration day at Song-Kul Lake
- Cycle through the dramatic 32 Parrots Pass area
- Discover the remote Kara-Kujur Valley
- Cross challenging mountain passes above 3,000 meters
- Relax near the natural Jily-Suu Hot Springs
- Hike toward the beautiful Teshik-Kol Lake
- Cross the challenging Tosor Pass
- Enjoy breathtaking views of Issyk-Kul Lake
- Visit the colorful Skazka Fairy Tale Canyon
- Experience wilderness camping and Kyrgyz hospitality
- Discover some of Kyrgyzstan's most remote mountain landscapes
Day by Day Itinerary
Bishkek – Burana Tower – Kegeti Gorge
Welcome to Kyrgyzstan! Arrive in Bishkek early in the morning and meet your local guide. Begin your scenic journey toward Kegeti Gorge, stopping along the way at the historic Burana Tower. Explore the ancient ruins of Balasagyn, discover traditional stone balbal statues and visit the archaeological museum. Continue toward Kegeti Gorge, surrounded by spectacular mountain landscapes. Upon arrival, prepare your cycling equipment, meet the expedition team and relax before the adventure begins. Accommodation: Guesthouse Meals: Dinner (D)
Kegeti Gorge – Kol-Tor Lake – Kegeti Gorge
After breakfast, begin your first mountain biking adventure toward the spectacular Kol-Tor Lake area. Follow scenic mountain tracks through alpine meadows, forests and beautiful mountain landscapes. The lake is situated at approximately 2,730 meters above sea level and is famous for its turquoise water and surrounding rocky peaks. Explore the beautiful alpine scenery and enjoy time for photography. Return to Kegeti Gorge and your guesthouse. Important: The upper trail may require walking or carrying bicycles. Cycling access and any restrictions must be confirmed locally. Accommodation: Guesthouse Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner (B, L, D)
Kegeti Gorge – Kegeti Pass – Eastern Karakol Valley
After breakfast, begin one of the first major mountain challenges of the expedition. Cycle along an old mountain road toward Kegeti Pass, situated at approximately 3,085 meters above sea level. Enjoy spectacular panoramic views of the surrounding Tian Shan Mountains. After crossing the pass, continue descending toward the remote Eastern Karakol Valley. The cycling route is approximately 43 kilometers according to the proposed itinerary. Meanwhile, the support vehicle follows a separate route through Kochkor to meet the group at an agreed location. Set up camp and enjoy dinner in the wilderness. Accommodation: Tent camp Meals: Breakfast, Dinner (B, D)
Eastern Karakol – Kyzart Pass – Kilemche Valley
After breakfast, continue through Eastern Karakol Valley toward the Kochkor–Chaek road. Begin cycling toward Kyzart Pass, passing through spectacular mountain landscapes and remote highland valleys. The route includes the Chaar-Archa Pass area, reaching approximately 3,061 meters above sea level according to the supplied itinerary. Continue toward Bazar-Turuk Gorge and the beautiful Kilemche Valley. Arrive beneath the dramatic slopes of Tuz-Ashuu Pass. Set up camp and enjoy dinner surrounded by magnificent mountain scenery. Accommodation: Tent camp Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner (B, L, D)
Kilemche Valley – Tuz-Ashuu Pass – Song-Kul Lake
After breakfast, prepare for an unforgettable mountain biking adventure toward Song-Kul Lake. Cycle through Kilemche Valley and ascend toward Tuz-Ashuu Pass, approximately 3,229 meters above sea level according to the proposed route. Enjoy spectacular panoramic views before descending toward Song-Kul Lake. The lake is situated at approximately 3,016 meters above sea level and is surrounded by vast alpine pastures. Discover traditional Kyrgyz nomadic life and enjoy the peaceful mountain atmosphere. Set up camp near the lakeshore. Accommodation: Tent camp near Song-Kul Lake Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner (B, L, D)
Song-Kul Lake Exploration
Enjoy a relaxing day surrounded by the beautiful mountain landscapes of Song-Kul Lake. After breakfast, explore the area at your own pace. Optional activities include cycling along suitable lakeside tracks, horseback riding or short hikes toward panoramic viewpoints. Meet local nomadic families and discover traditional Kyrgyz customs and hospitality. Enjoy time for photography, relaxation and exploring the spectacular surroundings. Accommodation: Tent camp Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner (B, L, D)
Song-Kul Lake – 32 Parrots Pass – 40 Booz-Ui
After breakfast, continue your mountain biking expedition around Song-Kul Lake. Travel toward the famous 32 Parrots Pass area, known for its dramatic mountain road and winding bends. Follow the Song-Kul River through beautiful valleys and remote highland landscapes. The proposed cycling distance is approximately 70 kilometers. Continue toward the camping area near the road leading toward Naryn. Set up camp and enjoy dinner in the mountains. Accommodation: Tent camp Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner (B, L, D)
40 Booz-Ui – Kara-Kujur Valley
After breakfast, begin another challenging cycling day through remote mountain terrain. Travel toward the beautiful Kara-Kujur Valley. The proposed route crosses the Ter-Su Pass area at approximately 3,200 meters and Chamal-Dilga Pass at approximately 3,414 meters. Enjoy spectacular views of alpine rivers, remote valleys and rugged mountain landscapes. Continue toward the camping area and relax after the day's ride. Accommodation: Tent camp Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner (B, L, D)
Kara-Kujur Valley – Djalpak-Bel Pass – Jily-Suu Hot Springs
After breakfast, continue cycling through the beautiful mountain landscapes of Kara-Kujur Valley. Ascend toward Djalpak-Bel Pass, approximately 3,300 meters above sea level according to the proposed route. Enjoy panoramic mountain views before descending toward the Malyi Naryn River valley. Continue toward Jily-Suu Hot Springs, where natural mineral waters offer an opportunity to relax after several challenging cycling days. Set up camp in the surrounding mountain area. Accommodation: Tent camp Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner (B, L, D)
Teshik-Kol Lake Trek
Today offers a change of pace from mountain biking. After breakfast, prepare for a trekking adventure toward the beautiful Teshik-Kol Lake, located at approximately 3,504 meters above sea level according to the supplied itinerary. Hike through spectacular alpine landscapes and enjoy views of surrounding mountain peaks. Discover the peaceful atmosphere of this remote mountain destination. Return to the camping area in the afternoon. Accommodation: Tent camp Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner (B, L, D)
Tosor Pass – Issyk-Kul Lake – Bokonbaevo
After breakfast, prepare for one of the most demanding stages of the expedition. Continue toward Tosor Pass, reaching approximately 3,893 meters above sea level. Enjoy spectacular high-altitude scenery before descending toward the beautiful Issyk-Kul region. Continue toward Tamga Village and Bokonbaevo along the southern shore of Issyk-Kul Lake. Arrive at your guesthouse, enjoy a warm dinner and relax after the mountain expedition. Accommodation: Guesthouse in Bokonbaevo Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner (B, L, D)
Bokonbaevo – Skazka Canyon – Bishkek
After breakfast, depart Bokonbaevo and begin your return journey toward Bishkek by vehicle. Stop at the famous Skazka Canyon, also known as Fairy Tale Canyon. Explore its spectacular sandstone formations and colorful landscapes. Continue toward Bishkek through beautiful mountain scenery. Arrive in Bishkek and enjoy your final evening in Kyrgyzstan. Driving: Approximately 350 km, depending on the route Accommodation: Guesthouse in Bishkek Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner (B, L, D)
Bishkek – Manas International Airport
After breakfast, transfer to Manas International Airport according to your flight schedule. End of your unforgettable 13-day mountain biking expedition through Kyrgyzstan. Meals: Breakfast (B) Service: Airport departure transfer
What's Included
- Airport pickup and drop-off
- English-speaking cycling guide
- Support vehicle and driver
- Transportation of luggage and camping equipment
- Transportation between cycling stages as specified
- 12 nights of accommodation
- Guesthouses and tent camps
- Camping tents and basic equipment
- Meals according to the itinerary
- Basic bicycle repair tools
- Tour logistics and route coordination
- Burana Tower entrance fee
- Skazka Canyon entrance fee
What's Not Included
- International flights
- Mountain bike rental
- Personal cycling equipment
- Travel and medical evacuation insurance
- Personal expenses
- Alcoholic beverages
- Optional horseback riding
- Spare bicycle parts
- Personal sleeping bag
- Visa fees, if applicable
- Tips for guides and drivers
- Services not specified in the itinerary
What to Bring
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this tour
