# Issyk-Kul Winter Yurt & Canyons - 2 Days

Two winter days around Issyk-Kul in a private heated car. We climb Burana Tower, hike Konorchek Canyon in the snow and sleep in a heated yurt on the south shore. Day two brings Skazka Canyon and the frozen Barskoon waterfall. An eagle hunting show and a lakeshore ride can be added at extra cost. A short trip with both culture and nature.

- Duration: 2 days
- Type: Winter tours
- Best season: November to April
- Starts and ends in: Bishkek
- Pace: Moderately paced
- Activities: hiking - 2 days
- Accommodation: 1 night at yurt
- Total driving: 630 km
- Price: from $500 per person (the exact price depends on group size and season). No prepayment to enquire.
- Group: small group or fully private, with a local English-speaking guide
- Page: https://azattours.com/tours/issyk-kul-winter-yurt-canyons-2-days/

## Highlights

- Burana Tower, balbals and Chui Valley views
- 2 to 3 hour hike in snowy Konorchek Canyon
- Night in a heated yurt on the Issyk-Kul shore
- Skazka Canyon and the frozen Barskoon waterfall

## Itinerary

### Day 1: Bishkek to Bokonbayevo via Burana and Konorchek

We pick you up at your hotel in the morning and head toward Issyk-Kul. Your guide runs through the plan as the city gives way to snowy mountains.

First stop is Burana Tower, a Silk Road landmark. Visit the small museum, walk among the old stone balbals and climb the tower for a view over the Chui Valley and the Tien Shan. In Boom Gorge we break for samovar tea, warm kattama bread and snacks.

Then comes the hike in Konorchek Canyon, 2 to 3 hours with your guide. Red rock and white snow make a strong contrast, and a viewpoint gives you a place to rest and take photos.

By late afternoon we reach a yurt camp on the south shore of Issyk-Kul. On request, a local hunter shows how Kyrgyz hunt with eagles. Dinner is home-cooked and served in the dining yurt. You sleep in your own heated yurt.

- Transfer: Bishkek to Bokonbayevo · 280 km · 4 h
- Activity: Hiking · 2-3 h
- Meals: Lunch, dinner
- Overnight: Heated yurt by Issyk-Kul

### Day 2: Bokonbayevo to Bishkek via Skazka and Barskoon

Breakfast is warm and served at the camp. If you asked for it, a 2-hour ride follows along the snowy shore of Issyk-Kul. The pace is easy, fine for beginners and experienced riders alike.

Next is Skazka Canyon, also called Fairy-Tale Canyon. You spend about an hour walking among its coloured rock shapes, which stand out sharply against the snow.

From there we drive up into Barskoon Gorge for a short winter walk to the frozen waterfall, between tall spruce and icy cliffs. A stop at a local hot spring is optional. Your guide checks the road and the weather and suggests the best one.

Then we turn back toward Bishkek, with lunch on the way. We drop you at your hotel or wherever suits you in the city.

- Transfer: Bokonbayevo to Bishkek · 350 km · 5 h
- Activity: Canyon walk · 1 h
- Meals: Breakfast, lunch

## Common questions

**How long is this tour?** It runs 2 days, starting and ending in Bishkek.

**When is the best time to go?** The season runs November to April. June to September brings the warmest days, and the high-pasture yurt camps are open.

**How fit do I need to be?** It's moderately paced, with 2 days hiking. Good general fitness is enough, and there is no technical climbing.

**Where will I stay?** A mix over the trip: 1 night at yurt.

**How much does it cost?** From $500 per person. The exact price depends on group size and season, and we confirm it for your group within 24 hours.

## How to book

Send your dates and group size and we confirm availability and a tailored price within 24 hours: https://azattours.com/tours/issyk-kul-winter-yurt-canyons-2-days/#book

- WhatsApp and phone: +996 502 888 001 (https://wa.me/996502888001)
- Email: azatbeyshenaliev1@gmail.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/azattourskg/
- Enquiry form: https://azattours.com/#plan
- Based in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan