Song-Kul Lake — the Heart of Kyrgyzstan
THE MAIN THINGS ABOUT THE HIKE
Song-Kul Lake — the Heart of Kyrgyzstan
Song-Kul Lake is a high-altitude alpine lake located in the very center of Kyrgyzstan, which is why it is often called the heart of the country. The lake lies at an elevation of about 3,016 meters above sea level, surrounded by vast plateaus and mountain ridges that create a sense of openness, silence, and untouched wilderness. Geographically, Song-Kul is part of the Inner Tien Shan mountain system. It is enclosed by several ridges, including the Song-Kul Too and the Moldo Too ranges, which protect the basin and shape its unique highland climate. Due to its elevation, the lake remains cold throughout the year and is covered with ice for much of the winter, while summers are short but vibrant, turning the surrounding pastures into rich green jailoo (summer grazing lands). Song-Kul is the second-largest natural lake in Kyrgyzstan, after Issyk-Kul, and plays an important ecological and cultural role. The wide pastures around the lake have for centuries served as summer grazing grounds for nomadic herders. During the warm months, local families move here with their livestock — horses, sheep, and yaks — setting up yurts and continuing a way of life that has changed little over generations.
Bishkek , Kockkor , Bishkek
Itinerary
Day 1. Bishkek – Kyzart – Kilemche Valley (horseback riding)
🚗Drive: Horseback riding distance: ~15–18 km
The journey starts with a morning departure from Bishkek and a scenic drive to the village of Kyzart, the traditional gateway to the Song-Kul region. Upon arrival, guests meet the local horsemen, receive instructions, and are matched with horses. The horseback ride begins through mountain pastures and rolling hills, gradually opening wide panoramic views of the Kilemche Valley. The pace is relaxed, allowing time to enjoy the landscape and adapt to horseback riding. By late afternoon, the group reaches Kilemche Valley, known for its vast summer pastures and nomadic atmosphere.
🏠Accommodation: yurt camp in Kilemche Valley
Day 2. Kilemche Valley – Song-Kul Lake (horseback riding)
🚗Drive: Horseback riding distance: ~17–20 km
After breakfast, the horseback journey continues toward Song-Kul Lake. The route follows alpine meadows and mountain trails, gradually gaining altitude as the landscape becomes more open and dramatic. Along the way, riders pass shepherd camps and remote pastures, experiencing the traditional nomadic way of life. In the afternoon, the group reaches Song-Kul Lake, a high-altitude alpine lake surrounded by wide plateaus and snow-capped mountains, offering a true sense of space and freedom.
🏠Accommodation: yurt camp at Song-Kul Lake
Day 3. Song-Kul Lake – Bishkek (via Kalmak-Ashuu Pass)
🚗Drive: ~300 km by car
The day begins with a peaceful morning by the lake, when the light and reflections create especially beautiful views. After breakfast, the return journey to Bishkek starts by vehicle via the scenic Kalmak-Ashuu Pass. The high mountain road offers breathtaking landscapes and completes the adventure with a final panoramic drive. Arrival in Bishkek is expected in the evening.
🏠Accommodation: not included
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