Trip to the heart of Sary-Chelek mountain lake.

  • Tour code

    31

  • Destination

    Kyrgyzstan

  • Type tour

    Group tour

  • Age range

    16 - 59

  • Language

    English

  • Cancel tour

    Yes/Free

Description

Tour Location: Kyrgyzstan 

Tour duration: 11 days.

Tour type: History, culture, ethnography, gastronomic, architecture, and nature.

Quantity of tour participants: according to the request.

Best time to travel:  June, and August, September

Itinerary: Bishkek-Sary-Chelek-Arslanbob-Osh

Tour description Highland Lake Sary Chelek is considered to be the most beautiful place in the west of Kyrgyzstan. It lies at an altitude of 1940 m above sea level in the foothills Chatkal range, 500 km from the capital city of Bishkek and 300 km from the town of Osh.

The length of lakes in the south-west to north-east is 7.5 km, the water surface area is 50.7 square kilometers and depth in some places reaches 234 m. It was formed as a result of the powerful earthquake that occurred many centuries ago, when the incredible scale landslide blocked one of the tributaries of the Kara-Suu river - Kojo-Ata, and the river flooded the entire valley.

By the way, a deep-water Sary-Chelek is the third in Asia and the second in Central Kyrgyzstan.

Because of the great depth, water temperature, even in summer it does not exceed + 18C, and in the winter at around + 4C-0C. The lake is freshwater and gives rise to the river Kojo-Ata.

North Shore-Cheese Chelek almost entirely overgrown with spruce and fir forests, their density is such that often, even in the sunny day is half-dark and cool, the air filled with the smell of pine needles and flowering herbs. In sports streams  (species of trout), the hillsides are covered with wild raspberries and blackberries - a true paradise on earth.

Of course, as one might think, but only if you have not visited the south bank of Sary-Chelek.

Hence, from the southern coast of the lake begins grounds Sary-Chelek Biosphere Reserve, an area is relatively small and amounts to 23900 hectares.

It occupies a small mountain hollow gorge Arkyts height differences from 1200 to 4247 m. And was created to preserve the walnut-fruit lands and mountainous landscape with its endemic fauna and flora.

The landscape here is really amazingly beautiful. Foothill grasslands and steppes, wild rivers and pristine lakes make a lasting impression, but the main wealth of the reserve - the walnut-fruit forests - a unique phenomenon, almost anywhere in the world is not found in this volume.

The main targets of these woods are walnut trees, apple, and pear.

The fauna of the reserve is diverse and colorful. Here, under the vigilant protection of human live freely bears, martens, porcupines, leopards, lynx, roe deer, wild boars, as well as 157 species of birds.

Dozens of mountain streams fun flock to the lake, almost vertical cliffs, steeply down to unprecedented depths. The blue water reflects the clouds and running is not clear whether they float across the sky, or on the water. Coastal gray rocky hills covered with pine and walnut-fruit forests, bring to the landscape effect of patina and the lake seem precious sapphire, mounted in a bar of old greenish silver.

 

 

 

 

Itinerary

  Arrival at the airport , transfer to Bishkek, hotel accommodation, city tour.

Meeting in the airport, transfer to the hotel, accommodation, short rest, late breakfast, city tour ( visit Historical Museum, Central Square, Victory Square, Frunze Museum) free time.

Transfer from Bishkek - gorge Chychkan.

Early morning after breakfast transfer to beautiful gorge Chychkan.  It will be a long drive day. On the way, we will go through the Too-Ashuu Pass(3586m), the Suusamyr, and Ala-Bel valleys known for beautiful pastures. In Ala-Bel valley snow lies all year round.  Lunch in Guesthouse. After lunch trekking to Gorge Chychkan.   Overnight in the guest house.

Transfer from gorge Chychkan –Sary-Chelek mountain Lake.

After breakfast transfer to Sary-Chelek Lake. Also, you will see a big water reservoir Toktogul that holds great importance in daily life for the Kyrgyz people.   Several activities are available there: Fishing, boating, and horse riding (optional). In the evening we will go by boat to a deserted place of the lake. Stay in a tent camp. Dinner.

Policy

Price included

The Price includes:

All transfers during the trip, accommodation, guide, full board, cooking service while trekking, tents, service of packs animals and stableman.

The price does not include:

International airfare, visa/visa support, meals in Osh. Single supplement in hotels, alcohol and drinks.

Notes:

-bring comfortable shoes

- headwear

-sunglasses

-sweater, waterproof jacket

-flashlights

P.S. There might be some small changes in the program due to unforeseen circumstances. We hope for your understanding.

Other terms

To book, a deposit is required, with the balance due 30 days before departure. Cancellations made over 30 days in advance are refundable minus a fee, while those within 30 days are non-refundable. Travel insurance is recommended but not included. Itineraries may change due to unforeseen conditions, and travelers must follow health and safety regulations. Luggage includes one checked bag and one carry-on; excess baggage may incur extra fees. Respectful behavior is required, and special requests should be made at booking, subject to availability.

Reviews

Overall rating

4.9

2,394 reviews
Excellent Score

Review summary

  • Transportation:
    4.5
  • Value for money:
    4.5
  • Support services:
    4.5
  • Organization:
    4.0

Recent reviews

2,394 reviews
Emily Smith (USA)

"An incredible journey through Noriva! From breathtaking mountain views to exciting water sports, every day was packed with adventure and beauty. A must-visit!"

February 9, 2023
Ariol Deep (France)

"Our trip to Noriva exceeded expectations. The mix of scenic hikes, relaxing lakeside days, and cultural experiences made for a perfect vacation. Will definitely return!"

February 9, 2023
Emma Ross (UK)

"I loved every moment of this Noriva tour. The guided hikes, serene lakes, and exploration of tropical forests were highlights. Excellent value and great memories!"

February 9, 2023
David Kane (Germany)

"Fantastic 5-day itinerary in Noriva! Enjoyed everything from mountain climbs to cultural experiences. Well-organized, beautiful scenery, and a truly memorable trip."

February 9, 2023