What is the seven-day route?
Almaty — Charyn — Kolsai — Saty — Kaindy — Karkara border — Karakol — southern Issyk-Kul and Kadji-Sai — Ak-Sai — Kochkor — Song-Kol when conditions allow — Chon-Kemin — Bishkek — Korday border — Almaty. Six nights are included, with Song-Kol during the yurt season or Kochkor at other times.
What is the price per person?
For four travellers: $1,220; for three: $1,470; for two: $1,730; for a solo guest: $2,990. Group rates are based on twin or double occupancy in the hotel section. Yurt sleeping arrangements are discussed when booking.
Do Song-Kol yurts have private bathrooms?
No. Showers and toilets are shared facilities outside the yurts. Guesthouse and hotel rooms on the standard itinerary have private bathrooms; yurt facilities in Saty and Kadji-Sai are also agreed in advance.
How long is the drive from Kadji-Sai to Song-Kol?
Allow approximately 5–6 hours via Ak-Sai and Kochkor. This is a demanding mountain transfer; sightseeing, lunch and rest stops add to the driving time. Actual timing depends on weather and road conditions.
Is the tour suitable if we prefer short walks?
Walking distances can be reduced, with your guide choosing accessible viewpoints and a pace suited to the group. Long drives and uneven mountain roads remain part of the itinerary. Tell us in advance about children, mobility needs and accommodation requirements.
When can we travel to Song-Kol?
From late May to early September, the plan includes a yurt overnight by the lake. At other times, a day visit with an overnight in Kochkor is possible when weather permits. Heavy rain or snowfall can make the lake inaccessible, in which case the programme is adjusted.
What is included, and what costs extra?
Ground transport with a driver-guide, six nights, meals on the programme, entrance fees and an eagle demonstration are included. International flights, insurance, personal purchases, horse riding and boat hire are extra. Additional accommodation after the tour is also excluded.
Where does the tour finish?
On day seven, return from Bishkek to Almaty through Korday, with a transfer to your hotel or the airport. Arrival time depends on border procedures and traffic. Finishing in Bishkek is possible by prior arrangement.
How do I book?
Send your dates and group size. A manager agrees the route, preferred stops, accommodation and dietary needs with you. After you confirm the itinerary and total price, pay a 20% deposit: we secure your guide and then reserve the agreed accommodation. The remaining 80% is due on day one; payment in US dollars is available. For direct Silk Travel bookings, cancellation 14 calendar days or more before the start receives a refund of 100% of the amount paid; with less notice, the 20% deposit is non-refundable. Third-party bookings follow their platform terms.
Are the tours private?
Yes. Every tour is for your own party, including solo travellers. We do not run join-in groups or add you to another booking. Your English-speaking guide adapts walks, stops and time at locations to your interests and ability within the agreed itinerary. Extra days, accommodation upgrades and optional paid activities are quoted separately.
What vehicles do you use?
All our vehicles are comfortable, air-conditioned and undergo technical inspections. For groups of up to 4 guests, we use off-road-capable Toyota Land Cruiser or Toyota Land Cruiser Prado SUVs. For 5 guests, we use a Toyota Sequoia SUV. For groups of more than 5 guests, we use a Mercedes-Benz Sprinter.
What if prices differ by group size?
The price depends on group size. Send your dates and the number of people and a manager will confirm the exact offer.
Can you arrange halal meals, vegetarian food and food allergies?
Yes. Vegetarian and halal meals can be arranged in advance, with food adapted to guests’ preferences. Tell us about allergies before booking. A severe allergy requires individual discussion and confirmation of arrangements, including any needed controls against contact with the allergen. Check the chosen tour’s meal inclusions: meals are paid separately on some itineraries.
Do you provide child car seats?
Yes. We provide a child car seat on advance request. Tell us the child’s age and height when booking so we can prepare a suitable seat before the tour starts.
How can I stay connected during the trip?
On routes through Almaty, Bishkek or Karakol, you can buy a local SIM card along the way; tell us if you would like help. Mobile coverage depends on the operator and may be unavailable in remote mountain areas.
