Kyrgyzstan & the World Nomad Games
Step into the heart of nomadic culture on this fully-inclusive tour through Kyrgyzstan, timed to coincide with the 2026 World Nomad Games. This extraordinary international festival, held once every two years, celebrates the rich culture, sports, and traditions of nomadic peoples, primarily from Central Asia.
Beyond the games, discover Kyrgyzstan’s breathtaking landscapes — from towering mountains and red rock canyons to vast alpine lakes — while enjoying the warm hospitality of its people. This tour combines the very best of Kyrgyzstan with a front-row seat to one of the world’s most remarkable events, showcasing the nomadic way of life.
Interested in Uzbekistan too? Our 2 September departure can be combined with our 11 day fully inclusive Ultimate Uzbekistan tour, showcasing the best of both countries.
- 29 Aug 2026 – 08 Sep 2026
from $10,680 pp twin share * - 02 Sep 2026 – 12 Sep 2026
from $10,680 pp twin share *
* Prices and category availability are subject to change without notice.
Itinerary
- Days 1-2 – Fly overnight to Bishkek:
Fly overnight to the city of Bishkek, capital of Kyrgyzstan. Early check-in is included. The rest of the day is yours to relax before dinner. - Day 3 – Ala Archa National Park & Opening Ceremony:
Begin the day surrounded by the dramatic landscapes of Ala-Archa National Park, a stunning alpine haven in the Tian Shan mountains. Enjoy a leisurely walk among rugged peaks, sparkling streams, and breathtaking gorges. Return to Bishkek for lunch, then discover the city’s highlights: Central Square, the iconic Manas Monument, and a vibrant bazaar. This evening, watch the spectacular Opening Ceremony of the VI World Nomad Games. - Day 4 – Issyk Kul Lake:
Travel by road to the sparkling northern shores of Issyk Kul, the world’s second-largest mountain lake. Its salty waters never freeze, earning it the name ‘warm lake’. Enjoy a boat ride on the lake. Check in to your hotel in Cholpon-Ata for a 2-night stay. - Day 5 – World Nomad Games:
Spend a full day at the 2026 World Nomad Games at the Cholpon-Ata Hippodrome, the beating heart of the Games. Immerse yourself in the excitement of traditional nomadic sports as riders compete in the fast-paced, adrenaline-fuelled Kok-Boru — Central Asia’s iconic horseback team sport. Experience the power and precision of horseback wrestling (Er Enish), where strength, balance, and horsemanship are put to the ultimate test. Beyond the main arena, enjoy captivating displays of traditional archery and be awed by eagle demonstrations showcasing the deep bond between hunters and their magnificent golden eagles. The atmosphere is electric, with thundering hooves, cheering crowds, and the raw spirit of nomadic heritage on full display. Programme may vary depending on the day’s events. - Day 6 – Cheese Tasting, Hot Springs & Dine with a Uyghur Family:
After breakfast, journey east along the shoreline of Issyk Kul to Karakol, stopping in the village of Tup for a tour and a tasting of the region’s famous Kyrgyz cheese, Kurut, a hard, salty cheese ball made from dried, fermented milk. Discover Karakol’s highlights on arrival, including the Dungan Mosque, the wooden Russian Orthodox Church, and the lively bazaar. Spend the afternoon relaxing in a local hot spring, an essential part of the Karakol lifestyle. This evening, join a welcoming Uyghur family for a delicious home-cooked dinner of lagman. Overnight in Karakol. - Day 7 – Jeti-Oguz Gorge & Yurt Stay:
After breakfast, travel along the scenic southern shore of Issyk Kul to the village of Tamga. En route, visit the spectacular Jeti-Oguz Gorge, famed for its striking red sandstone formations — the ‘Broken Heart’ and the towering ‘Seven Bulls’. Enjoy an easy one-hour walk to admire sweeping views of the gorge before stopping for lunch. Continue to Tamga, where you’ll check in to your yurt camp with private ensuite for the next 2-nights. - Day 8 – Skazka Canyon & Barskoon Gorge:
Enjoy a day of exploring. First, visit Skazka Canyon and enjoy a walk among its dramatic red rock formations. Continue to Kadji-Sai village for lunch with a local family of musicians, accompanied by a lively folklore performance. In the afternoon, explore Barskoon Gorge and see the famous ‘Tears of the Snow Leopard’ waterfall. Return to the yurt camp for a hands-on manty cooking class with a chef. - Day 9 – Meet an Eagle Hunter:
After breakfast in your yurt, travel to Chon-Kemin Nature Park. Along the way, meet an eagle hunter and see the training process of these magnificent birds. Stop in Kyzyl-Tuu village to visit a local family and learn about the traditional craft of yurt-making, a village famous for its skilled artisans. Enjoy lunch with the family before continuing to Chon-Kemin, where you’ll check in at your guesthouse for the evening. - Day 10 – Cook Traditional Kyrgyz bread:
Start the day with a walk in Chon-Kemin Nature Park, followed by a hands-on cooking class making Boorsok, traditional Kyrgyz bread, for lunch. Travel to Bishkek with a stop at Burana Tower, an 11th-century minaret offering panoramic views of the Chuy Valley, and explore the open-air museum with ancient balbals. Check in to your hotel, enjoy some free time, and finish the day with a farewell dinner and drinks. Overnight in Bishkek. - Days 11-12 – Depart Bishkek:
You will be transferred to the airport for your onward flight. Late checkout is not included.
Highlights
- Witness the spectacular World Nomad Games, a celebration of nomadic culture and traditions.
- Relax in traditional yurts on the shores of the stunning Issyk Kul Lake.
- Explore the breathtaking alpine landscapes of the Tian Shan Mountains.
Step into the heart of nomadic culture on this fully-inclusive tour through Kyrgyzstan, timed to coincide with the 2026 World Nomad Games. This extraordinary international festival, held once every two years, celebrates the rich culture, sports, and traditions of nomadic peoples, primarily from Central Asia.
Beyond the games, discover Kyrgyzstan’s breathtaking landscapes — from towering mountains and red rock canyons to vast alpine lakes — while enjoying the warm hospitality of its people. This tour combines the very best of Kyrgyzstan with a front-row seat to one of the world’s most remarkable events, showcasing the nomadic way of life.
Interested in Uzbekistan too? Our 2 September departure can be combined with our 11 day fully inclusive Ultimate Uzbekistan tour, showcasing the best of both countries.
Inclusions
- Witness the extraordinary World Nomad Games.
- Relax in traditional yurts on Lake Issyk Kul.
- Walk through alpine scenery in Tian Shan Mountains.
- Browse colourful bazaars.
- Learn to cook traditional Kyrgyz dishes.
FAQs
How long is this journey?
This itinerary runs for 12 days and 9 nights.
When can I travel?
Departures are currently scheduled between 29 Aug 2026 and 12 Sep 2026, subject to live availability.
Are there different departure options?
Yes, multiple departures may be available depending on your preferred travel period.
What is generally included?
Inclusions typically cover guided touring and selected experiences, with exact details listed in the itinerary.
Provided by: Wendy Wu ToursFine Print
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