Get ready for an unforgettable adventure through Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan, starting in vibrant Almaty. We'll explore the striking Aktau and Katutau Mountains and visit the picturesque village of Basshy. From there we'll head to the Singing Dune and soak in the hot springs of Zharkent. We'll take in the landscapes of Bestamak Canyon and Charyn Canyon before arriving in the village of Saty. From Saty, we'll visit the beautiful Kaindy and Kolsai Lakes.
Next we'll head to Karakol, Zhety-Oguz, and the majestic Lake Issyk-Kul in Kyrgyzstan. We'll explore Fairy Tale Canyon and the Arabel Glacier in Kadzi Sai, and get to know the historic Burana Tower before arriving in Bishkek. We'll wrap up our trip in Almaty, visiting the ancient Tamgaly petroglyphs — a mix of culture, adventure, and natural beauty.
We'll set off for the striking Aktau and Katutau Mountains in Altyn-Emel National Park. The Aktau Mountains, known for their vividly colored rock formations dating back millions of years, offer a surreal, photogenic landscape. The Katutau Mountains, with their strange shapes and caves, let us explore a unique setting formed by volcanic lava. At the end of the day, we'll arrive in the picturesque village of Basshy, where we'll have dinner and spend the night in a traditional Kazakh yurt camp, enjoying authentic local hospitality.
Today we'll head to the famous Singing Dune in Altyn-Emel National Park, a natural wonder where the wind creates melodic sounds as it moves the sand. We'll climb the dune to enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding desert and listen to its "song." Afterward, we'll continue on to Zharkent, a city rich in history and culture, known for its unique architecture and historic monuments. Then we'll unwind at the nearby hot springs for a rejuvenating, relaxing soak. We'll spend the night in a yurt camp, taking in the serenity of the surroundings and a traditional dinner.
We'll leave early to visit the striking Bestamak Canyon, known for its rock formations and varied scenery. We'll spend some time exploring the canyon and enjoying a picnic in this spectacular setting. Then we'll head to the famous Charyn Canyon, often compared to the Grand Canyon for its stunning beauty. We'll walk through the canyon, taking in its towering rock walls and panoramic views. At the end of the day, we'll arrive in the village of Saty, where we'll settle into local accommodations and enjoy a traditional dinner.
From Saty we'll set out for the beautiful Lake Kaindy, famous for its submerged trees rising out of the crystal-clear water. We'll walk around the lake, taking in its serenity and one-of-a-kind beauty. Then we'll continue on to the stunning Lake Kolsai, known as one of the "Pearls of Tien Shan." We'll explore the shores of the lake and enjoy a picnic overlooking this alpine landscape. After a day of exploration and adventure, we'll return to Saty for the night to share our experiences.
Today we'll head into Kyrgyzstan, crossing the border to reach Karakol, a city known for its Russian colonial architecture and rich history. We'll visit Karakol's Russian Orthodox Church and the Dungan Mosque before continuing on to Zhety-Oguz, famous for its striking red cliffs and rock formations. Then we'll head to the majestic Lake Issyk-Kul, one of the largest alpine lakes in the world. We'll spend the night near the lake, taking in the stunning views and peaceful surroundings.
Today we'll explore the Kadzi Sai region, visiting Barskoon and Arabel, known for their mountain scenery and panoramic views. We'll continue on to Fairy Tale Canyon, famous for rock formations that look straight out of a storybook. We'll walk through the canyon, admiring the rocks' unique shapes and colors. Then we'll return to the shores of Lake Issyk-Kul for a relaxing afternoon and dinner by the lake. We'll spend the night in a yurt camp, enjoying Kyrgyz hospitality.
From Lake Issyk-Kul we'll head to the historic Burana Tower, an ancient minaret and one of Kyrgyzstan's most important sites. We'll explore the archaeological complex and learn about the region's history. Afterward we'll continue on to Bishkek, the capital of Kyrgyzstan. On arrival, we'll take a short city tour, visiting Ala-Too Square and the State History Museum. We'll spend the night in a hotel in Bishkek, enjoying the comforts of the city.
On our last day we'll leave Bishkek and travel to the Tamgaly petroglyphs, a UNESCO World Heritage Site home to ancient rock carvings dating back to the Bronze Age. We'll explore the site, admiring the striking images carved into the rock. After the visit we'll head back to Almaty, where our adventure will come to a close. We'll have time for one last look around the city or some shopping before saying goodbye to this incredible trip.
Lake Kaindy with its sunken trees left me speechless — I'd never seen anything like it! And sleeping in the yurt that night, under a sky full of stars, was my favorite moment of the whole trip.
I was a little nervous about crossing from Kazakhstan into Kyrgyzstan, but the group was small and everything flowed really smoothly. Ten intense, well-organized days — I recommend it with my eyes closed!
Charyn Canyon looks like a mini Grand Canyon, so cool! And seeing a hunter with his eagle in Kyrgyzstan was one of those things I used to only see in documentaries — now I lived it in person.
Be between 25 and 45 years old, with valid travel documentation (a passport valid for at least 6 months from your entry date into the country). We'll guide you if you need to arrange a visa.
Given the nature of our adventures — constant transfers, packing and unpacking every day — we ask you to travel light: a small backpack or personal item, plus a 10–12 kg carry-on. If you prefer to bring a larger suitcase, any extra storage or transport cost is on you.
Message us on WhatsApp using the "Reserve your spot" button and we'll walk you through the form and deposit. As soon as your spot is confirmed, we'll send you the next steps.
You reserve your spot with $100 USD, which counts toward the final package price. The remainder is split into up to 6 payments on fixed dates, and must be paid off no later than one month before the trip. Cash payments are not accepted.
You book your own flights, but you'll get guidance from your experience coordinator once you've reserved your spot, including the recommended arrival airport. If you decide to fly in before or after the group dates, any extra costs are on you.
An experience coordinator follows up with you remotely before the trip (flights, visas, prep). A W&W ambassador travels with you in person and leads the group, and expert local guides join you on tours. The rest of the group is other travelers on the same date.
Our packages are built around well-located 3- or 4-star hotels, in twin rooms (2 beds) shared with another group member. Some packages include different nights, like camping or igloos, noted in the itinerary.
Wild & Wonder is part of Travelers With Cause, a responsible tourism company registered since January 2018, with registration before Mexico's Secretariat of Tourism. We don't travel to countries with political or social instability. Travel insurance is mandatory, and we can help you find one that fits your needs.
We run routes across the Americas, Asia, Africa, and Europe — all in small groups.