Kyrgyzstan

Get ready to dive into this Central Asian country of breathtaking natural beauty and proud nomadic traditions!

Kyrgyzstan

Get ready to dive into this Central Asian country of breathtaking natural beauty and proud nomadic traditions!

Why Kyrgyzstan?

Where Beauty Has No Name

Kyrgyzstan. Mysterious. Relentlessly rugged. Unthinkably beautiful. A land untouched by the tourist tide, where even the locals seldom venture. Some of its most stunning places didn't even have names until recently.

Yet there, we will be in experienced hands. We’ll be accompanied by documentary filmmaker Martin Grahowski, the creator of the film Kyrgyzstan – A Cinematic Diary. We will wander among majestic mountains and dizzying valleys, sprawling lakes and mighty rivers. We’ll watch the flight of hunting eagles and get lost in the vast expanses. To find ourselves again.

And, captivated by the colours of the endless wilderness, where wild horses and Kyrgyz nomads roam, we will dream of the next time when we dive into the fantastic landscapes of the Central Asian country, whose name translates to Land of the Forty Tribes.

Is this journey meant for you?

Challenge

Comfort

Nature

Culture

Endless open spaces, mountain and lake landscapes

Do you want to feel like the only person on Earth? Dream of being wrapped in silence and raw beauty where the hustle of the city simply loses meaning? Are you fascinated by unknown cultures and their traditional way of life?

If the answer to at least one of these questions is 'yes', then Kyrgyzstan is just for you. There, you'll sleep in a yurt, ride a horse, taste the local cuisine, and your soul will be nourished by the fantastic landscapes of the Central Asian country.

Upcoming Journeys

10 May 2026

10/05/2026

-

19 May 2026

19/05/2026

SOLD OUT

Along the 'Silk Road'

Kyrgyzstan is a blend of a long-forgotten communist past, Islam, and a nomadic lifestyle in harmony with its astonishing nature. Across its land, mostly covered by majestic mountains, once passed the most famous ancient intercontinental 'highway' – the Silk Road. During our journey, you'll touch upon the age-old traditions of Kyrgyz herders and feel the warm hospitality of the local people. You won't miss out on acquiring unique Kyrgyz souvenirs and witnessing an authentic folklore show.

Lakes and Mountains

The main characters of this journey will be several glacial, freshwater, and salty lakes, one of which is the second-largest mountain lake in the world after Titicaca. The imposing high mountain passes, which you'll cross on foot, on horseback, and by car, will also command respect. In the Switzerland of Central Asia, as Kyrgyzstan is sometimes called due to its terrain, you will visit the capital, whose name means Mountain that Brings Happiness, and a ghost town; the Fairy Tale Canyon and a pasture that translates to Carpet; the Seven Bulls Rocks and the Maiden's Braids waterfall. And who knows, maybe you will invent an even more romantic name for this thrilling adventure.

Itinerary

Day 1

Welcome to Kyrgyzstan (Bishkek)

A shuttle from the airport will take you to your hotel. As you arrive early, you can use the day to rest or explore the Kyrgyz capital on your own. The city, whose name means Mountain that brings happiness, is situated at the foot of the Kyrgyz Range. Among its main attractions are the City Hall building, the Kyrgyz Opera and Ballet Theatre, and the Kyrgyz State Historical Museum. In the evening, we will dine together and get to know each other. The next day we head towards our camp, made up of traditional yurts.

Food: breakfast, lunch, dinner.

Transport: private transfer (approximately 30 km/40 minutes).

Day 2

Build your own yurt before eagle hunting (Bokonbaevo)

Today, we journey to a camp with authentic yurts, located on the southern shore of the salty Issyk Kul Lake – the largest lake in Kyrgyzstan and the seventh deepest in the world. In Kyrgyz, its name means 'warm lake', which is quite a paradox, as it is surrounded by snow-capped peaks. Nevertheless, it never freezes.

Here, we will witness an incredibly fascinating demonstration of how yurts are made, an activity the whole group will participate in. Our teacher will be a local craftsman from the village of Kyzyl-Tuu, known for producing traditional Kyrgyz yurts.

Eagle hunting is part of the ancient culture of nomadic civilizations, and we can't wait to show it to you. This tradition originated in Central Asia, where nomads began taming the birds thousands of years ago to procure food and skins during the winter months. Nowadays, this ancient tradition is slowly vanishing, but Kyrgyzstan is one of the few countries where a handful of skilled hunters keep it alive.

Ruslan, a renowned professional eagle hunter, will demonstrate how they would hunt in the wild. Since we are staying in a yurt camp, dinner will also be here.

Food: breakfast, lunch, dinner.

Transport: private transfer (approximately 290 km/4 hours).

Day 3

A Fairytale Landscape and the Legend of the Seven Bulls (Karacol)

On the third day, our journey takes us to the town of Karakol, located on the southern shore of Lake Issyk Kul. Along the way, we have the opportunity to visit the Fairy Tale Canyon, a breathtaking and mystical SPOT, named so for its whimsical landscape resembling Mars. Some formations resemble snakes, dragons, or even the Great Wall of China. The canyon offers a majestic panorama of Lake Issyk Kul.

Karakol (from Kyrgyz – Black Lake) is one of the largest towns in Kyrgyzstan. It is renowned for its captivating history and is one of the most interesting cultural and culinary destinations in the country.

Afterwards, you will visit the village of Svetlaya Polyana. Here, you will have the opportunity to stroll through the most beautiful and untouched nature of Kyrgyzstan, to see the famous Seven Bulls Rocks (in Kyrgyz – Jeti Ögüz) and the Maiden's Braids waterfall. The name of the rocks, which are an important symbol of Kyrgyz culture, comes from their resemblance to seven bulls and the legend of a Kyrgyz khan and his unfaithful wife. The size, colour, and aura of the rocks will take your breath away.

After a day filled with new adventures and impressions, we return to the hotel for dinner and rest.

Food: breakfast, lunch, dinner.

Transport: private transfer (approximately 160 km/2.5 hours).

Day 4

The Abandoned Ghost Town and Hot Springs (Engilchek)

Today, our adventure takes us on an off-road tour through the Chon Ashuu Pass, towering at 3,822m above sea level in the most isolated part of the country – the Saridzhaz Range. Our ultimate destination is the abandoned ghost town of Engilchek. Due to unemployment following the collapse of the Soviet Union, the town was deserted, and today you can see the ruins of houses, playgrounds, and an airstrip. Nevertheless, around 20 families still live in the town, striving to breathe new life into Engilchek. There's even a small school for the children, for whom we will bring gifts along the way. About 50 km east of the town lies the glacier of the same name, which is the largest and fastest moving in Kyrgyzstan.

After an exciting day, we will return to Karakol and enjoy dinner together.

Meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner.

Transport: private transfer (approximately 300 km/5 hours).

Day 5

Karakol – Son-Kul Lake, 400 km

Today, we have planned an unforgettable and extraordinary trekking tour to the beautiful glacial lake Son-Kul. Heading towards Son-Kul Lake on the northern shore of Lake Issyk-Kul, we will visit the local souvenir shop in Kochkor and have lunch with a local family. Further driving to Son-Kul Lake through the Kalmak-Ashu pass, 3433m. Dinner and overnight stay in a yurt camp on the shore of Son-Kul Lake. Meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner. Transport: walking excursion.

Day 6

A Day at the Beautiful Song-Kul Lake (Song-Kul)

Today's tour will take us from Karakol to the lake Song-Kul, situated over 3010 m above sea level in the heart of the mighty Tian Shan mountain range (from Chinese - Heavenly Mountains), which covers a large portion of Kyrgyzstan. Song-Kul is the largest freshwater lake in the country and the second-largest lake in Kyrgyzstan. Since it's relatively inaccessible, this experience will be something you'll remember for a very long time.

We'll go horseback riding to the top of the Tuz Pass, where we'll enjoy a panoramic view of Lake Song-Kul and the southern ridge. Another splendid view from the Tuz Pass is the Kilemche pasture and the colourful mountains of the opposite ridge.

After the horseback ride, we will have a few hours' drive to the village of Kochkor, where we'll settle into a guest house.

Along the way, we will visit some local souvenir shops in the large village of Kochkor, where you can buy a little something to remember your journey.

Meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner.

Transport: private transfer (approximately 400 km/6 hours).

Day 7

From Kochkor to Bishkek

Today we'll return to the capital city of Bishkek, where we'll explore its main attractions. Bishkek is the largest city in Kyrgyzstan, known for its wide boulevards and marble-clad public buildings. On both sides of most streets, there are narrow irrigation channels providing water for countless trees, which in turn offer much-needed shade during the hot summers. Bishkek also presents a fascinating blend of grand Soviet architecture with traditional local culture, embodied by the colourful Osh Bazaar, which we will also visit. There, you can buy groceries, household items, clothes, souvenirs, and even musical instruments. Special attention should be paid to the section with traditional Kyrgyz goods, called Kyal (translates to 'fantasy, dream'). It offers folk costumes, carved wooden chests and boxes, traditional rugs and blankets (teshiks), distinctive local cradles (beshik), and various other products typical of Kyrgyz culture.

For your final evening in Kyrgyzstan, we've planned a festive dinner at a restaurant in traditional Kyrgyz style. After a long day of encountering Kyrgyz traditions, we'll relax at the hotel.

Food: breakfast, lunch, dinner.

Transport: private transfer (approximately 200 km/3 hours).

Day 8

Farewell, Kyrgyzstan!

After midnight, we will take you to the airport, from where you can head home or to your next destination.

* Panic Frame & Travel reserves the right to adapt and change the program according to changes in accommodation conditions, climate, and other factors that require it.

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

Dive into adventure!

8 days

16 travellers

Price per person

€3,222

Includes airfare from Sofia, all accommodations, transport, guide, activities

Become a part of our community

Over a thousand people have already journeyed with us

Itinerary

Day 1

Welcome to Kyrgyzstan (Bishkek)

A shuttle from the airport will take you to your hotel. As you arrive early, you can use the day to rest or explore the Kyrgyz capital on your own. The city, whose name means Mountain that brings happiness, is situated at the foot of the Kyrgyz Range. Among its main attractions are the City Hall building, the Kyrgyz Opera and Ballet Theatre, and the Kyrgyz State Historical Museum. In the evening, we will dine together and get to know each other. The next day we head towards our camp, made up of traditional yurts.

Food: breakfast, lunch, dinner.

Transport: private transfer (approximately 30 km/40 minutes).

Day 2

Build your own yurt before eagle hunting (Bokonbaevo)

Today, we journey to a camp with authentic yurts, located on the southern shore of the salty Issyk Kul Lake – the largest lake in Kyrgyzstan and the seventh deepest in the world. In Kyrgyz, its name means 'warm lake', which is quite a paradox, as it is surrounded by snow-capped peaks. Nevertheless, it never freezes.

Here, we will witness an incredibly fascinating demonstration of how yurts are made, an activity the whole group will participate in. Our teacher will be a local craftsman from the village of Kyzyl-Tuu, known for producing traditional Kyrgyz yurts.

Eagle hunting is part of the ancient culture of nomadic civilizations, and we can't wait to show it to you. This tradition originated in Central Asia, where nomads began taming the birds thousands of years ago to procure food and skins during the winter months. Nowadays, this ancient tradition is slowly vanishing, but Kyrgyzstan is one of the few countries where a handful of skilled hunters keep it alive.

Ruslan, a renowned professional eagle hunter, will demonstrate how they would hunt in the wild. Since we are staying in a yurt camp, dinner will also be here.

Food: breakfast, lunch, dinner.

Transport: private transfer (approximately 290 km/4 hours).

Day 3

A Fairytale Landscape and the Legend of the Seven Bulls (Karacol)

On the third day, our journey takes us to the town of Karakol, located on the southern shore of Lake Issyk Kul. Along the way, we have the opportunity to visit the Fairy Tale Canyon, a breathtaking and mystical SPOT, named so for its whimsical landscape resembling Mars. Some formations resemble snakes, dragons, or even the Great Wall of China. The canyon offers a majestic panorama of Lake Issyk Kul.

Karakol (from Kyrgyz – Black Lake) is one of the largest towns in Kyrgyzstan. It is renowned for its captivating history and is one of the most interesting cultural and culinary destinations in the country.

Afterwards, you will visit the village of Svetlaya Polyana. Here, you will have the opportunity to stroll through the most beautiful and untouched nature of Kyrgyzstan, to see the famous Seven Bulls Rocks (in Kyrgyz – Jeti Ögüz) and the Maiden's Braids waterfall. The name of the rocks, which are an important symbol of Kyrgyz culture, comes from their resemblance to seven bulls and the legend of a Kyrgyz khan and his unfaithful wife. The size, colour, and aura of the rocks will take your breath away.

After a day filled with new adventures and impressions, we return to the hotel for dinner and rest.

Food: breakfast, lunch, dinner.

Transport: private transfer (approximately 160 km/2.5 hours).

Day 4

The Abandoned Ghost Town and Hot Springs (Engilchek)

Today, our adventure takes us on an off-road tour through the Chon Ashuu Pass, towering at 3,822m above sea level in the most isolated part of the country – the Saridzhaz Range. Our ultimate destination is the abandoned ghost town of Engilchek. Due to unemployment following the collapse of the Soviet Union, the town was deserted, and today you can see the ruins of houses, playgrounds, and an airstrip. Nevertheless, around 20 families still live in the town, striving to breathe new life into Engilchek. There's even a small school for the children, for whom we will bring gifts along the way. About 50 km east of the town lies the glacier of the same name, which is the largest and fastest moving in Kyrgyzstan.

After an exciting day, we will return to Karakol and enjoy dinner together.

Meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner.

Transport: private transfer (approximately 300 km/5 hours).

Day 5

Karakol – Son-Kul Lake, 400 km

Today, we have planned an unforgettable and extraordinary trekking tour to the beautiful glacial lake Son-Kul. Heading towards Son-Kul Lake on the northern shore of Lake Issyk-Kul, we will visit the local souvenir shop in Kochkor and have lunch with a local family. Further driving to Son-Kul Lake through the Kalmak-Ashu pass, 3433m. Dinner and overnight stay in a yurt camp on the shore of Son-Kul Lake. Meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner. Transport: walking excursion.

Day 6

A Day at the Beautiful Song-Kul Lake (Song-Kul)

Today's tour will take us from Karakol to the lake Song-Kul, situated over 3010 m above sea level in the heart of the mighty Tian Shan mountain range (from Chinese - Heavenly Mountains), which covers a large portion of Kyrgyzstan. Song-Kul is the largest freshwater lake in the country and the second-largest lake in Kyrgyzstan. Since it's relatively inaccessible, this experience will be something you'll remember for a very long time.

We'll go horseback riding to the top of the Tuz Pass, where we'll enjoy a panoramic view of Lake Song-Kul and the southern ridge. Another splendid view from the Tuz Pass is the Kilemche pasture and the colourful mountains of the opposite ridge.

After the horseback ride, we will have a few hours' drive to the village of Kochkor, where we'll settle into a guest house.

Along the way, we will visit some local souvenir shops in the large village of Kochkor, where you can buy a little something to remember your journey.

Meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner.

Transport: private transfer (approximately 400 km/6 hours).

Day 7

From Kochkor to Bishkek

Today we'll return to the capital city of Bishkek, where we'll explore its main attractions. Bishkek is the largest city in Kyrgyzstan, known for its wide boulevards and marble-clad public buildings. On both sides of most streets, there are narrow irrigation channels providing water for countless trees, which in turn offer much-needed shade during the hot summers. Bishkek also presents a fascinating blend of grand Soviet architecture with traditional local culture, embodied by the colourful Osh Bazaar, which we will also visit. There, you can buy groceries, household items, clothes, souvenirs, and even musical instruments. Special attention should be paid to the section with traditional Kyrgyz goods, called Kyal (translates to 'fantasy, dream'). It offers folk costumes, carved wooden chests and boxes, traditional rugs and blankets (teshiks), distinctive local cradles (beshik), and various other products typical of Kyrgyz culture.

For your final evening in Kyrgyzstan, we've planned a festive dinner at a restaurant in traditional Kyrgyz style. After a long day of encountering Kyrgyz traditions, we'll relax at the hotel.

Food: breakfast, lunch, dinner.

Transport: private transfer (approximately 200 km/3 hours).

Day 8

Farewell, Kyrgyzstan!

After midnight, we will take you to the airport, from where you can head home or to your next destination.

* Panic Frame & Travel reserves the right to adapt and change the program according to changes in accommodation conditions, climate, and other factors that require it.

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

Dive into adventure!

8 days

16 travellers

Price per person

€3,222

Includes airfare from Sofia, all accommodations, transport, guide, activities

Become a part of our community

Over a thousand people have already journeyed with us

Itinerary

Day 1
Welcome to Kyrgyzstan (Bishkek)
Day 2
Build your own yurt before eagle hunting (Bokonbaevo)
Day 3
A Fairytale Landscape and the Legend of the Seven Bulls (Karacol)
Day 4
The Abandoned Ghost Town and Hot Springs (Engilchek)
Day 5
Karakol – Son-Kul Lake, 400 km
Day 6
A Day at the Beautiful Song-Kul Lake (Song-Kul)
Day 7
From Kochkor to Bishkek
Day 8
Farewell, Kyrgyzstan!

* Panic Frame & Travel reserves the right to adapt and change the program according to changes in accommodation conditions, climate, and other factors that require it.

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

Dive into adventure!

8 days

16 travellers

Price per person

€3,222

Includes airfare from Sofia, all accommodations, transport, guide, activities

Become a part of our community

Over a thousand people have already journeyed with us

Let's head to Kyrgyzstan!

Upcoming journeys

10 May 2026

-

19 May 2026

SOLD OUT

SIGN UP

By clicking the "Sign Up" button, you agree to our Terms and Conditions and Privacy Policy.

WHAT'S THE JOURNEY LIKE?

1

Complete the registration form. We'll give you a call to get acquainted and will be awaiting the necessary details for the contract and insurance.

2

You'll receive a contract, insurance, and invoice – pay 50% deposit, and we'll expect the balance 45 days before departure.

3

A month before the expedition, we'll remind you about the journey with a detailed email filled with insights about the destination, flights, and more.

Included in the price:

Flight tickets from Sofia to Bishkek and back, including standard carry-on luggage and a checked suitcase up to 23 kg.

All Overnight Stays

All Transport Expenses

All the activities described in the programme

A guide along the journey

Medical insurance with coverage of €10,000

See Terms and Conditions

What's not included:

Services not mentioned in the programme

Personal Expenses

Food not mentioned in the itinerary

Alcohol and Drinks

Additional Insurance "Trip Cancellation"

Discover more about insurance

Let's head to Kyrgyzstan!

Upcoming journeys

10 May 2026

-

19 May 2026

SOLD OUT

SIGN UP

By clicking the "Sign Up" button, you agree to our Terms and Conditions and Privacy Policy.

WHAT'S THE JOURNEY LIKE?

1

Complete the registration form. We'll give you a call to get acquainted and will be awaiting the necessary details for the contract and insurance.

2

You'll receive a contract, insurance, and invoice – pay 50% deposit, and we'll expect the balance 45 days before departure.

3

A month before the expedition, we'll remind you about the journey with a detailed email filled with insights about the destination, flights, and more.

Included in the price:

Flight tickets from Sofia to Bishkek and back, including standard carry-on luggage and a checked suitcase up to 23 kg.

All Overnight Stays

All Transport Expenses

All the activities described in the programme

A guide along the journey

Medical insurance with coverage of €10,000

See Terms and Conditions

What's not included:

Services not mentioned in the programme

Personal Expenses

Food not mentioned in the itinerary

Alcohol and Drinks

Additional Insurance "Trip Cancellation"

Discover more about insurance

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

Is something unclear?

office@panicframe.com

+359 887 293 757

What documents do I need for Kyrgyzstan?

To travel to Kyrgyzstan, Bulgarian citizens need a valid passport and a visa. Don't worry, you can easily obtain the visa online through Kyrgyzstan’s electronic system. Just make sure your passport is valid for at least six months after your entry date, and you're set for adventures in this beautiful country!

Can you get mobile service and internet access?

Upon arrival at the airport in Bishkek, you can purchase an inexpensive SIM card for your stay.

What's the currency and how much money should I carry with me?

The currency in Kyrgyzstan is the SOM. 1 Bulgarian lev is equivalent to 42 Kyrgyz SOM.

Kyrgyzstan is a very affordable country to visit. Almost everything you need is covered on the tour, but it's usually recommended to carry an additional 300 euros for gifts and other extras.

Is Kyrgyzstan a safe place to explore?

Absolutely! Most of the time, we'll be in remote regions where we'll be completely safe. The cities have low crime rates, and the people in the country are friendly and welcoming.

Should I carry medication in Kyrgyzstan?

As we'll spend most of our time in remote parts of the country, it's advisable to bring extra medication, especially for high altitudes. Things like ibuprofen, loperamide, imodium, and others according to your needs are also recommended.

What kind of weather should I expect?

Summer in Kyrgyzstan is hot, but expect freezing temperatures in the mountains, even in the chilliest months. Remember to pack warm clothes as we ascend to higher altitudes, along with hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen to protect against the high-altitude sun.

Are there any restrictions on how women should dress?

Broadly speaking, women are allowed to wear whatever they wish in most parts of the country. Considering we will mostly be in remote areas, this shouldn't be a major concern.

Ready for an adventure?

Signed up for the expedition but wondering what to pack? You can check off your gear here to make sure you’re fully prepared.

Get ready to experience the ancient nomadic way of life.

Clothing

Quick-Dry Towel

Waterproof jacket and trousers

Good trekking shoes

Extra Shoes – Spare

Winter Jacket and Trousers for the Mountains

T-shirts

Warm clothes

Warm Socks + Spare Pair

Shower Slippers

GEAR

Reusable cup or mug

Personal Medications

Small Daypack for Day Hikes (15L)

Essential Personal Hygiene Supplies

Insect Repellent

Sunscreen

Sunglasses

Thermos and/or Water Bottle

Headlamp with Spare Batteries

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WHY TRAVEL WITH US?

Who are we?

Panic Frame & Travel is not a commercial travel agency. We don't offer you tranquility, tickets, or accommodation in an all-inclusive hotel with white tablecloths. We see ourselves as Tarzan tourists, organizing journeys to hard-to-reach places, encountering wild nature, and traveling by campers, catamarans, off-road jeeps, and even helicopters.

Discover more about us

Forbes logo

WHY TRAVEL WITH US?

Who are we?

Panic Frame & Travel is not a commercial travel agency. We don't offer you tranquility, tickets, or accommodation in an all-inclusive hotel with white tablecloths. We see ourselves as Tarzan tourists, organizing journeys to hard-to-reach places, encountering wild nature, and traveling by campers, catamarans, off-road jeeps, and even helicopters.

Discover more about us

Forbes logo

WHY TRAVEL WITH US?

Who are we?

Panic Frame & Travel is not a commercial travel agency. We don't offer you tranquility, tickets, or accommodation in an all-inclusive hotel with white tablecloths. We see ourselves as Tarzan tourists, organizing journeys to hard-to-reach places, encountering wild nature, and traveling by campers, catamarans, off-road jeeps, and even helicopters.

Discover more about us

Forbes logo