7-Day Kyrgyzstan Road Trip Itinerary: Discover the Heart of Central Asia

Day 1: Explore Bishkek

Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan on August 25, 2024

8:00AM

Breakfast at Navat

Start with a delicious Kyrgyz traditional breakfast of fried dough and sweet tea at Navat, a local favorite.
Walk to the restaurant, about 10 minutes.
KGS400, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Ala-Too Square

Stroll around Ala-Too Square, the heart of Bishkek, and witness the changing of the guard ceremony.
15-minute drive to the square.
Free, 1 hour

11:00AM

Explore Osh Bazaar

Dive into the bustling atmosphere of Osh Bazaar where you can find souvenirs, fruits, and local delicacies.
5-minute drive from Ala-Too Square.
Free, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Old Tashkent

Enjoy a hearty Uzbek plov at Old Tashkent known for its rich flavors and cozy ambiance.
15-minute drive from the bazaar.
KGS600, 1 hour

3:00PM

Visit the State Historical Museum

Learn about Kyrgyz history and culture through intriguing exhibits at the State Historical Museum.
10-minute drive from the restaurant.
KGS100, 2 hours

5:30PM

Relax at Ala Archa National Park

Take a scenic drive to Ala Archa National Park to enjoy beautiful natural landscapes and hiking trails.
30-minute drive from the museum.
KGS250, 3 hours

9:00PM

Dinner at Arzu

Savor delicious Kyrgyz dishes like lamb shashlik at Arzu for a perfect finish to your first day.
30-minute drive back to Bishkek.
KGS800, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Day Trip to Almaty

Almaty, Kazakhstan on August 26, 2024

7:00AM

Drive to Almaty

Enjoy a morning drive to Almaty, the largest city in Kazakhstan, filled with culture and history.
4-hour drive to Almaty.
KGS1500 (fuel), 4 hours

11:00AM

Breakfast at Vzletnaya

Have a delightful breakfast of traditional Kazakh pancakes at Vzletnaya, located near the city center.
20-minute drive from the border.
KZT2000, 1 hour

12:30PM

Visit Panfilov Park

Admire the beautiful Zenkov Cathedral and the monument of the 28 Panfilov Heroes in Panfilov Park.
5-minute drive from the restaurant.
Free, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at Daredzhani

Taste authentic Georgian dishes like khachapuri and khinkali at Daredzhani, a local gem.
15-minute drive from Panfilov Park.
KZT3000, 1 hour

3:30PM

Explore the Green Bazaar

Wander through the lively Green Bazaar, sampling local foods and purchasing unique crafts.
10-minute drive from the restaurant.
Free, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Visit Kok-Tobe Hill

Take a cable car up to Kok-Tobe Hill for stunning views of the city and the surrounding mountains.
15-minute drive from the bazaar.
KZT1500 (cable car), 2 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at Ilhaud Restaurant

Enjoy traditional Kazakh cuisine with a modern twist at Ilhaud, close to the city center.
20-minute drive down the hill.
KZT4000, 1.5 hours

9:00PM

Drive back to Bishkek

Return to Bishkek after a wonderful day in Kazakhstan.
4-hour drive back.
KGS1500 (fuel), 4 hours
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Day 3: Relax by Issyk-Kul

Issyk-Kul Lake, Kyrgyzstan on August 27, 2024

8:00AM

Drive to Issyk-Kul Lake

Travel to the stunning Issyk-Kul Lake, known for its warm saline waters and beautiful beaches.
2.5-hour drive from Bishkek.
KGS1000 (fuel), 2.5 hours

10:30AM

Breakfast at Cafe Nurtai

Start your day with fresh pastries and coffee at Cafe Nurtai, enjoying views of the lake.
10-minute drive from the lake.
KGS500, 1 hour

12:00PM

Relax at Jeti-Öghüz Beach

Unwind at the picturesque Jeti-Öghüz Beach, a perfect place to enjoy the sun and tranquility.
20-minute drive from the cafe.
Free, 3 hours

3:00PM

Lunch at Beach Cafe

Indulge in some fresh fish dishes along with a stunning view of Lake Issyk-Kul.
Onsite at Jeti-Öghüz.
KGS700, 1 hour

4:30PM

Hike to the Seven Bulls Rocks

Go for a scenic hike to the stunning rock formations known as the Seven Bulls.
15-minute drive from the beach.
Free, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Naryn

Savor organic farm-to-table dishes at Naryn, a rustic restaurant with a fantastic lakeside view.
30-minute drive from the hiking point.
KGS900, 1.5 hours

9:00PM

Stargazing by the lake

End your day with stargazing by the calm shores of Issyk-Kul Lake under the clear night sky.
Onsite.
Free, 1 hour
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Day 4: Cultural Karakol

Karakol, Kyrgyzstan on August 28, 2024

7:00AM

Drive to Karakol

Journey to Karakol, a vibrant town known for its rich culture and stunning landscapes.
1-hour drive from Issyk-Kul.
KGS200 (fuel), 1 hour

8:00AM

Breakfast at 1000 and 1 Nights

Enjoy a flavorful breakfast featuring local specialties at 1000 and 1 Nights.
5-minute drive in Karakol.
KGS500, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Dungan Mosque

Marvel at the unique architecture of Dungan Mosque, built without nails and inspired by Chinese design.
5-minute drive from the restaurant.
Free, 1 hour

11:00AM

Explore the Przhevalsky Museum

Learn about the famous explorer Nikolai Przhevalsky and his travels across Central Asia at the museum dedicated to him.
10-minute drive from the mosque.
KGS100, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Kyshtak

Take a break for lunch at Kyshtak with delicious dumplings and local dishes.
10-minute drive from the museum.
KGS700, 1 hour

3:00PM

Visit the Karakol Valley

Explore the breathtakingly beautiful Karakol Valley with hiking options for all levels.
20-minute drive from Kyshtak.
Free, 3 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at the Karakol Ranch

End your day with hearty barbecue pulled straight from the grill at the cozy Karakol Ranch.
20-minute drive from the valley.
KGS900, 1.5 hours
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Day 5: Adventure at Song Kul Lake

Song Kul Lake, Kyrgyzstan on August 29, 2024

7:30AM

Drive to Song Kul Lake

Set off early for Song Kul Lake, famous for its ethereal beauty and horse culture.
3.5-hour drive from Karakol.
KGS600 (fuel), 3.5 hours

11:30AM

Breakfast at a Yurt Camp

Indulge in a simple yet authentic breakfast of kaymak (clotted cream) and bread at a yurt.
Onsite.
KGS500, 1 hour

1:00PM

Horse Riding by the Lake

Experience an unforgettable horseback riding tour along the picturesque shores of Song Kul Lake.
Onsite.
KGS1000 (rental), 3 hours

4:00PM

Lunch at the Yurt

Savor freshly made laghman (noodles) served warmly at the yurt.
Onsite.
KGS700, 1 hour

5:30PM

Explore Surrounding Nature

Explore the scenic surroundings with breathtaking views and pristine nature trails.
Onsite.
Free, 3 hours

8:30PM

Dinner by Campfire

Enjoy a cozy dinner of grilled lamb under the stars by the campfire.
Onsite.
KGS800, 1.5 hours
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Day 6: Journey through Suusamyr Valley

Suusamyr Valley, Kyrgyzstan on August 30, 2024

8:00AM

Drive to Suusamyr Valley

Venture into the stunning Suusamyr Valley, known for its green pastures and picturesque landscapes.
2-hour drive from Song Kul.
KGS300 (fuel), 2 hours

10:00AM

Breakfast at Suusamyr Valley Lodge

Enjoy a hearty breakfast of oat porridge and local cheese at a cozy lodge.
Onsite.
KGS600, 1 hour

11:30AM

Explore Suusamyr Valley

Spend time hiking or biking through the lush green landscapes and valleys around the area.
Onsite.
Free, 3 hours

2:30PM

Lunch at the Lodge

Delight in a traditional Kyrgyz meal at the lodge overlooking the valley.
Onsite.
KGS800, 1 hour

4:00PM

Visit Suusamyr Köl

Visit the beautiful Suusamyr Köl, a hidden gem for tranquil moments and stunning landscapes.
30-minute drive from the lodge.
Free, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Local Eatery

Invite your taste buds for a local dining experience with a delicious platter of appetizers.
20-minute drive from the lake.
KGS700, 1.5 hours

9:00PM

Drive back to Bishkek

Return to Bishkek for the last night in Kyrgyzstan remembering the beauty of your adventure.
1.5-hour drive.
KGS500 (fuel), 1.5 hours
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Day 7: Farewell to Bishkek

Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan on August 31, 2024

8:00AM

Breakfast at Dodo Pizza

Enjoy a relaxed breakfast of pizza or pancakes at Dodo Pizza, perfect for a last taste of Kyrgyz cuisine.
30-minute drive from the city center.
KGS600, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Ala-Too Square Again

Revisit Ala-Too Square to capture any last photos and take a final look at the city.
30-minute drive back to the square.
Free, 1 hour

11:00AM

Shopping for Souvenirs

Pick up some souvenirs at the local markets to remember your adventures.
10-minute drive from the square.
Varies, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at Talas Restaurant

Enjoy your last Kyrgyz meal with a delicious spread at Talas Restaurant.
15-minute drive from the market.
KGS700, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Pack and prepare to depart

Head back to your accommodation to pack your bags and prepare for departure.
Back to your accommodation.
Free, 2 hours

5:00PM

Departure from Bishkek

Say goodbye to Kyrgyzstan with unforgettable memories as you leave for your next adventure.
Travel to the airport.
Varies, Variable
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