Issyk-Kul, Jeti-Oguz and Barskoon Gorge: A Journey Along the Southern Shore of Issyk-Kul

Visit the Valley of the Seven Bulls, see Issyk-Kul and relax in the thermal springs

Golden beach of Lake Issyk-Kul with a view of snowy mountain ranges

Tour Program

Day 1
08:00 Departure from Bishkek
10:00 Drive through Boom Gorge
12:00 Lunch in Bokonbaevo (average check: 15$ per person)
13:00 Departure to Jeti-Oguz
15:15 Excursion and photo session in Jeti-Oguz
16:00 Departure to Barskoon Gorge
17:00 Departure to Kaji-Sai
19:00 Hotel check-in (average per person: dinner – 15$, accommodation – 30$)
You can choose your hotel on Booking or Airbnb.
Or ask our manager for help choosing accommodation.
Day 2
08:00 Breakfast (average check: 8$ per person)
09:00 Departure to Skazka Canyons
11:00 Visit to hot springs
12:30 Lunch in Bokonbaevo (average check: 15$ per person)
14:00 Departure to Bishkek
19:00 Arrival in Bishkek

Logistics

- The tour is conducted in a comfortable Toyota Sequoia SUV. Child seats available.
- Meals and accommodation are not included. Average lunch: 15$ per person, accommodation: 30$ per person.
- We recommend wearing comfortable shoes and bringing warm clothes, hats, and sunscreen (weather can be unpredictable). Optional – swimwear for the beach and hot springs.

Meeting Point

By agreement with the organizer. You can discuss this during booking before prepayment.

What to Expect

Boom Gorge – Road into the Mountains

On the way to Issyk-Kul, we pass through Boom Gorge – a narrow serpentine road between steep cliffs, running alongside the Chu River. The contrast here is striking: granite walls, wild water, and winding tunnels. Even a short passage leaves a lasting impression – especially for first-time travelers. It’s a symbolic gateway to the eastern part of Kyrgyzstan, where nature sets the rules.

Bokonbaevo

Bokonbaevo is a picturesque village on the southern shore of Lake Issyk-Kul, a center of eco-tourism in Kyrgyzstan. Surrounded by stunning mountain scenery and the deep blue sparkle of Issyk-Kul, it welcomes travelers seeking nature, rural life, and authentic Kyrgyz traditions.

Jeti-Oguz

Jeti-Oguz Gorge is one of the most beautiful places in Kyrgyzstan, located near Karakol on the southern shore of Lake Issyk-Kul. It sits in the northern part of the Terskey Ala-Too range, which surrounds the lake. The seven red rocks are a protected natural monument and part of a popular tourist route.

The gorge stretches 37 kilometers and sits at 2200 meters above sea level, with alpine meadows and wild animals like snow leopards, ibexes, bears, pheasants, and eagles.

The name "Jeti-Oguz" means "Seven Bulls" – named after the rock formations shaped like bulls lying down. According to legend, a khan who stole his neighbor’s wife slaughtered a bull each day of the week and finally the woman herself. Where her blood fell, seven red rocks appeared.

Barskoon Gorge

Barskoon Gorge on the southern shore of Issyk-Kul is known for its stunning waterfalls and dense spruce forests. It’s also famous as the place where the first cosmonaut, Yuri Gagarin, visited, and where the Kumtor gold mine is located. You’ll see waterfalls like “Leopard’s Tears,” “Elder’s Beard,” “Champagne Splash,” and “Manas’ Bowl.”

Kaji-Sai

Kaji-Sai is a cozy village on the southern shore of Lake Issyk-Kul, famous for its sandy beaches, warm water, and views of the snowy Terskey Ala-Too peaks. Unlike busy resorts, this place offers peace and seclusion – ideal for a quiet getaway.

In Soviet times, Kaji-Sai was a uranium mining town. Today, it’s a tranquil spot to swim in crystal-clear water, stroll along the lakeshore, or hike nearby gorges. Hot springs and natural landmarks like Skazka and Jeti-Oguz are also nearby.

Skazka Canyon

Skazka Canyon ("Fairy Tale") is one of the most vibrant spots on the southern shore of Issyk-Kul, just a few kilometers from Kaji-Sai. Its red, yellow, and orange formations shaped by wind and time resemble castles, dragons, and fortresses – like a fantasy world created by nature.

No special training needed – just good shoes and a camera. It’s a perfect place for a short walk, especially at sunset, when the rocks glow with fire. Artists, photographers, and dreamers love this place – there’s magic in every turn.

Hot Springs

The Issyk-Suu hot springs are located in Kaji-Sai near Lake Issyk-Kul. Visitors can enjoy restaurant service, changing rooms, and both indoor and outdoor thermal pools. The indoor pool maintains a constant 45°C temperature, while the outdoor pools offer hot, cold, and warm zones.

The waters are rich in sulfates, sodium, calcium, and silica, offering healing properties. Recommended for joint, skin, and respiratory issues, as well as for general immunity and stress relief. A perfect way to recover after a long tour or hike around Issyk-Kul.