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 is subject to change depending on the scheduling of the events.
Due to high demand, we have added a second departure. Please note, the itineraries for the two departures may vary. Contact us for details.
Arrive in Bishkek in the morning, transfer to hotel and briefing.
In the afternoon we explore the capital city with your guide, followed by attending the Opening Ceremony of the World Nomad Games!
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 Song Kul Lake, where we explore the local surroundings. Go for a hike along the vast meadows surrounding the lake and meet the local herders and their cattle.
Overnight in Song Kul Lake at yurt camp.
We depart Song Kul Lake and head towards Issyk Kul Lake.
On the way we stop in Kochkor to visit the local handicraft centre Altyn Kol.
Overnight in Bokonbaevo at yurt camp.
We begin our journey along the southern shore of Issyk Kul Lake towards Karakol.
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 canyones, also known as the Fairytale canyons.
Overnight in Karakol.
Morning in Karakol where we will visit its famous Russian Orthodox cathedral and Dungan Mosque.
We then continue our drive around Issyk Kul Lake, heading towards the northern shore, stopping for a visit at the breathtaking Semenov and Grigoriev gorges.
Depending on the event schedule, we may attend World Nomad Games event in the evening.
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.
Another full day in Cholpon Ata where we visit the World Nomad Games and attend its Closing Ceremony.
Overnight in Cholpon Ata region.
Morning transfer back to Bishkek.
Depending on traffic, the tour is expected to end around 14:00.
Transfer to airport.
End of trip.
