A trip to Kyrgyzstan to take in the 2026 World Nomad Games and soak up some of the country’s phenomenal mountainous scenery and Silk Road history.
The Games celebrate sports and activities played by nomadic communities of the Central Asian Steppe, albeit in 2024, more than 100 nations were represented. Sports and events such horseback wrestling, horseback archery, hunting with birds, tug of war and Kok-Boru/Buzkashi are among the highlights. It’s also an opportunity to bring together these communities from around the world and celebrate their historic ways of life.
When not taking in action of the games we’ll explore the scenery, history and culture of this incredible country, one of the most mountainous on earth.
The tickets and final schedule of events for the World Nomad Games are released closer to the time. This itinerary and tour dates are subject to change depending on the scheduling of the events.
Arrive in Bishkek in the morning, transfer to hotel and briefing.
In the afternoon we explore the capital city with your guide.
Overnight in Bishkek.
Depart Bishkek in the morning and visit Burana Tower, one of the earliest architectural wonders of Central Asia.
We then continue to Cholpon Ata where we visit the World Nomad Games for its the Opening Ceremony.
Overnight in Cholpon Ata region.
Full day at the World Nomad Games.
The events of the day will be scheduled closer to the time, but may include archery, falconry, horse racing, kokboru and wrestling.
Overnight in Cholpon Ata region.
Today we continue our drive along the northern shore of Issyk Kul Lake, stopping for a visit at the breathtaking Semenov and Grigoriev gorges.
Depending on the event schedule, we may attend another World Nomad Games event.
Continue to Karakol where we will visit its famous Russian Orthodox
cathedral and Dungan Mosque.
Overnight in Karakol at hotel.
Today we continue our drive along the southern shore of Issyk Kul Lake towards Bokonbaevo.
Along the way we will stop to explore the Jeti Oguz and Barskoon gorges. Barskoon gorge is famous for its many waterfalls, the best known named Tears of a Leopard.
We will also visit Skazka canyons, also known as the Fairytale canyons.
Overnight in Bokonbaevo in yurts.
We depart Issyk Kul Lake and head towards Song Kul Lake.
On the way we stop in Kochkor to visit the local handicraft centre Altyn Kol.
After lunch we drive along the Kalmak Ashuu Pass to reach our camp located at the foot of the mountains.
Overnight in Song Kul Lake at yurt camp.
Explore the surroundings of Song Kul Lake. Go for a hike along the vast meadows surrounding the lake and meet the local herders and their
cattle.
Horseback riding is available as an optional activity.
In the afternoon we return to Bishkek.
Overnight in Bishkek at hotel.
Transfer to airport.
End of trip.
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