1-855-602-7447
Experts available 7 days a week!
Hotels & Resort Deals
Select a destination...
View All Hotels & Resort Deals
Vacation Interests
Miscellaneous
Tours By Type
Tour Deals
Select a destination...
View All Tour Deals
Cruises From
Vacation Interests
Career Discounts
Featured Destinations
Select a destination for info and deals...
Destination Ports
Cruises sailing in each region...
- Transfer Your Booking To Us
- Book Shore Excursions
- Book Land Tours
- Save on Passport & Visa Services
-
![Arrow]()
View All Customer Service Resources
Saving Tools
- Access Reservation (web-made bookings only)
- Make a Payment
- Add Travel Insurance
- Pre-Cruise Registration
For Existing Reservations
- Land Vacation FAQs
- Cruise FAQs
- Cruise Port Directions
- Contact Us
Useful Links
Northern Stans: Kyrgyzstan & Kazakhstan
-
Length
8 Days
-
Quality
This indicates the overall quality of the tour operator's products. A low rating does not mean it is not good - it just means that it does not include as much, or perhaps is of a more standard quality than the higher quality tours. For example, a 3 star quality rating means that it is a more standard/economical tour, while 5 stars is a very luxurious tour that often includes a lot of amenities. -
Starts in
Bishkek (Kyrgyzstan)
-
Ends in
Almaty (Kazakhstan)
-
Available Tour Start Dates
OCT 7, 2026 to OCT 28, 2028
-
Activity Level
Easy
-
Style
Fully-Guided
-
Guaranteed Date(s)
Yes means that there is at least one tour date that the vendor guarantees will occur. No means that there is not at least one tour date that the vendor guarantees will occur, which usually means that the vendor wants a certain amount of reservations on each tour in order for each one to occur. Of course, the terms and conditions of the vendor do allow for the vendor to cancel guaranteed tour dates for certain reasons (for example, a natural disaster).Yes
-
Special Interest(s)
Small Group
Group trips average 12 travellers per departure, depending on the adventure. The maximum is usually no more than 16, but some can be smaller or bigger, depending on the trip. Check individual trips for details.
From
Pricing listed is per person, based on double occupancy, and is the least expensive price for at least one departure date of this tour. Price is for the tour only. Additional items, including but not limited to, airfare (unless noted otherwise), travel insurance, and more, are additional.
$1,599.00
Contact Us for a Special Price!
Overview
Central Asia's north doesn't do subtle. Eight days between Kyrgyzstan and Kazakhstan means alpine valleys, nomadic yurt stays, ancient towers, and canyon rims that'll make your jaw do the work. Bishkek's buzzing streets kick things off, Charyn Canyon's dramatic gorges close them out, and somewhere in between you'll learn to build a yurt. Not bad for a week.
Visited During Tour
Almaty (Kazakhstan) | Bishkek (Kyrgyzstan) | Karakol (Kyrgyzstan) | Kek Sai
Dates, Offers & Prices
Tour Itinerary
Accommodations
More Details
Dates, Offers & Prices
The following are Northern Stans: Kyrgyzstan & Kazakhstan tour dates available from G Adventures. Select a bonus offer graphic to view its details, including its terms.
There is at least one departure that the vendor is advising is Not Available for the selected year. Click here if you would like such tours to be included below.
Tour Itinerary
G Adventures Tour Code AUIA-11379
-
Day
1Bishkek
Welcome to Bishkek, the vibrant gateway to Kyrgyzstan's mountains and nomadic culture! Arrive anytime and take a moment to settle in, refresh, and soak up the city's unique energy. Stroll through leafy boulevards, admire Soviet-era architecture, or relax in one of the city's cafes as you prepare for the adventures ahead.
Exclusive Inclusions:
Arrival Transfer
You will be met at the airport and transferred to the hotel to start your adventure.
Welcome Moment - Meet Your CEO and Group
Your opportunity to meet your CEO and fellow travellers, and learn more about your tour. Opt to join the group for a local meal afterwards. Don't forget to see the notice in the lobby (or ask reception) for the official time and place to meet up with the group.
Accommodations: My Hotel Bishkek -
Day
2Bishkek
Start the day with a visit to Ala-Too Square, the heart of Bishkek, and take in the surrounding landmarks. Continue to Osh Bazaar, a lively market where colorful spices, fresh produce, and local crafts offer a true taste of daily life in Bishkek. Next, visit Victory Square and the WWII Memorial, reflecting the country's history and resilience. The afternoon is free to explore the city, visit local cafes and simply enjoy the rhythm of Bishkek at your own pace.
- Meals Included:
- Breakfast
Exclusive Inclusions:
City Tour
Check out some of the main highlights of this Soviet-esque capital city. Learn about the history of the city and daily life.
Free Time
Enjoy a free afternoon to explore Bishkek at your own pace.
Accommodations: My Hotel Bishkek -
Day
3Bishkek/Kek Sai
Depart Bishkek and journey to the historic Burana Tower, exploring the ancient minaret and the surrounding open-air balbal stones, remnants of centuries-old nomadic culture. Continue to your yurt camp, where the afternoon is yours to settle in and take in the views. In the evening, enjoy an included dinner featuring traditional Kyrgyz dishes.
- Meals Included:
- Breakfast
- Dinner
Exclusive Inclusions:
Private Vehicle
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Burana Tower Visit
Visit the historical site of Burana and climb the stairs to check out the view from the top. A large minaret, along with some grave markers and remnants of a castle and mausoleums, are all that remain of the 9th century city of Balasagun.
Accommodations: Yurt Camp Jaichy -
Day
4Kek Sai
After breakfast, enjoy a guided hike, reaching a stunning viewpoint over the surrounding valley. Take in the sweeping landscapes before returning to the yurt camp. Enjoy lunch at the camp, then spend the afternoon learning about the nomadic lifestyle and trying your hand at traditional games. In the evening, dive into Kyrgyz culture with a hands-on cooking experience, preparing Oromo and baursak before enjoying them for dinner under the stars.
- Meals Included:
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
Exclusive Inclusions:
Hike through the Jaichy region
Enjoy a guided hike in the Jaichy region, culminating at a panoramic viewpoint above the valley.
Hands-On Kyrgyz Cooking Experience
Enjoy dinner featuring a hands-on experience preparing traditional Kyrgyz dishes, including oromo and baursak.
Accommodations: Yurt Camp Jaichy -
Day
5Kek Sai/Karakol
Depart for the striking Fairytale Canyon, where jagged rock formations and colorful cliffs make for a landscape straight out of a storybook. Spend time exploring the canyon, taking in the dramatic scenery and snapping photos along the way. Continue to Barskoon Village to learn about local sustainable initiatives and even participate in yurt building, providing a hands-on glimpse into Kyrgyz traditions. Stop for lunch before driving to Karakol, where you'll check in to your hotel. The rest of the day is free to relax or explore the town at your own pace.
- Meals Included:
- Breakfast
- Lunch
Exclusive Inclusions:
Private Vehicle
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Skazka "Fairytale" Canyon
On the Southern Shore of Lake Issyk Kul, visit the breathtaking Skazka Canyon, also known as the Fairytale Canyon. It's nickname speaks for itself, with natural rock formations that tower like princess castles in faraway lands.
Ak-Orgo Visit and Yurt Building Experience
Visit the Ak-Orgo workshop, a G Adventures-supported project working to preserve Kyrgyz traditions and create employment opportunities in Barskoon. Observe how traditional yurts are built, then take part in constructing one yourself. Afterwards, enjoy an included lunch at the village.
Private Vehicle
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Free Time
Enjoy free time to explore Karakol at leisure.
Accommodations: Green Yard Hospitality Hotel -
Day
6Karakol/Almaty
Depart Karakol and journey to the border, where you'll cross into Kazakhstan on foot, a small adventure marking your entry into a new country. On the Kazakh side, meet your vehicle and continue toward Charyn Canyon. Take time to explore the dramatic landscapes of Charyn Canyon, often called the "Grand Canyon of Central Asia," before continuing on to Almaty. Check in to your hotel upon arrival and enjoy the rest of the day at leisure to relax or unwind after your journey.
- Meals Included:
- Breakfast
Exclusive Inclusions:
Private Vehicle
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Kyrgyzstan - Kazakhstan Border Crossing
Ready for a little more ink in your passport? Grab your bags and get ready to check another country off your bucket list.
Charyn Canyon Visit
Enjoy the views of the beautiful Charyn Canyon. Breathe the fresh air and snap a few photos of this stunning landscape.
Private Vehicle
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Free Time
Enjoy free time in the evening to explore Almaty at your leisure.
Accommodations: Almaty Hotel -
Day
7Almaty
Start the morning with a visit to Panfilov Park, home to the colorful Zenkov Cathedral, before strolling through the park and soaking in the city's history. Next, head to the Green Bazaar for a guided walk through bustling stalls overflowing with fresh produce, spices, and local treats - a true taste of daily life in Almaty. The afternoon is free to explore Almaty at your own pace and enjoy the city's unique atmosphere.
- Meals Included:
- Breakfast
Exclusive Inclusions:
Zenkov Cathedral
Constructed entirely of wood, this cathedral is a lasting remnant from the early twentieth century. Built without the use of any nails, this cathedral survived an earthquake in 1911 and continues to stand today. Located in a park, enjoy the colourful design from afar, or visit the cathedral itself to observe its stunning interior artwork.
Zelyony Bazaar
Also known as the "Green Bazaar," this was once a key trading centre in the city. Explore this traditional outdoor Kazakh market and roam around the varied stalls. Find anything from local spices and meats to souvenirs or furniture. Stay for a meal or opt to sip on tea while watching the hustle and bustle of the market unfold.
Free Time
Enjoy the afternoon free to explore Almaty.
Accommodations: Almaty Hotel -
Day
8Almaty
Enjoy your final moments before departing at any time.
- Meals Included:
- Breakfast
Exclusive Inclusions:
Departure Day
Not ready to leave? Your CEO can help with travel arrangements to extend your adventure.
Accommodations
Select a destination below to to view the hotel(s) included by G Adventures in their Northern Stans: Kyrgyzstan & Kazakhstan tour:
Almaty
Almaty Hotel
Location
Almaty, Kazakhstan
Other Details
- Hotel as shown or similar (G Adventures may replace it with a similar property)
Bishkek
My Hotel Bishkek
Location
121 Chuy Avenue
Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan-720001
Other Details
- Hotel as shown or similar (G Adventures may replace it with a similar property)
Karakol
Green Yard Hospitality Hotel
Location
14 Jetigen st.
Karakol, Kyrgyzstan
Other Details
- Hotel as shown or similar (G Adventures may replace it with a similar property)
Kek Sai
Yurt Camp Jaichy
Location
Kek Say
Kek Sai, Kyrgyzstan-722311
Other Details
- Hotel as shown or similar (G Adventures may replace it with a similar property)
More Details
G Adventures is informing us of the following additional details regarding their Northern Stans: Kyrgyzstan & Kazakhstan tour:
Group Size
Max 16, avg 14
What's Included
Your G for Good Moment: Ak-Orgo Visit and Yurt Building Experience, BarskoonYour Welcome Moment: Welcome Moment - Meet Your CEO and Group, Bishkek. Guided tour of Bishkek. Free time in Bishkek. Included traditional dinner. Lunch in yurt camp. Hands-on Kyrgyz traditional dish preparation. Lunch at Ak Orgoo. Free time in Karakol. Visit to Charyn Canyon. Free time in Almaty. Visit Osh Bazaar. Visit Victory Square & WWII Memorial. Visit Burana Tower. Guided hike in Kek Sai. Visit to Skazka Canyon. Visit to Barksoon Village with yurt building experience. Overnight in a yurt. Visit Panfilov Park & Zenkov Cathedral. Visit Green Bazaar. All transport between destinations and to/from included activities.
Highlights
Hit Bishkek's highlights from Ala-Too Square to the stalls of Osh Bazaar, Sleep in a mountain yurt camp in the shadow of the ancient Burana Tower, Hike panoramic valleys, try Kyrgyz cooking, and yes - build an actual yurt, Gawp at Fairytale Canyon's red rocks before crossing into Kazakhstan, End on a high with Charyn Canyon's dramatic gorges and the buzz of Almaty
What are the mandatory travel insurance requirements for this trip?
Travel Insurance: Travel insurance is compulsory in order to participate on any of our trips. When travelling on a group trip, you will not be permitted to join the group until evidence of travel insurance has been sighted by your CEO, who will take note of your insurance details. When selecting a travel insurance policy please bear in mind that all clients must have medical coverage and that we require a minimum coverage of USD 200,000 for repatriation and emergency rescue. We strongly recommend that the policy also covers personal liability, cancellation, curtailment and loss of luggage and personal effects. If you have credit card insurance we require proof of purchase of the trip (a receipt of credit card statement) with a credit card in your name. Contact your bank for details of their participating insurer, the level of coverage and emergency contact telephone number.
Accommodation Summary
Hotels/guesthouses (5 nts), yurts (2 nts). Please note that there will be shared bathroom facilities when staying in the yurts.
Meals Included
7 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 2 dinners
Group Leader
CEO (Chief Experience Officer) throughout.
What is the role of the group leader during this trip?
All G Adventures group trips are accompanied by one of our Chief Experience Officers (CEO). The aim of the CEO is to take the hassle out of your travels and to help you have the best trip possible. They will provide information on the places you are travelling through, offer suggestions for things to do and see, recommend great local eating venues and introduce you to our local friends. While not being guides in the traditional sense you can expect them to have a broad general knowledge of the countries visited on the trip, including historical, cultural, religious and social aspects. We also use local guides where we think more specific knowledge will add to the enjoyment of the places we are visiting- we think it's the best of both worlds.Please be aware your CEO may change between countries in Central Asia.
International Flights
No, international flights are generally not included in the price of your tour. However, on some combo tours travelling between two different countries, international flights are included as part of the itinerary and price of the tour. Please speak to your GCO or booking agent for further details. In addition, check-in times and baggage allowances/restrictions vary by airline and can change at any time. For the most up-to-date information for your flight, please contact your airline. We recommend checking in online in advance to avoid potential delays at the airport.
Transportation
Private vehicle, walking.
Minimum Age
You must be 18 to travel unaccompanied on a G Adventures tour. For minors travelling with a guardian over 21 years old, the minimum age is 12.
How should I dress to respect local customs during the tour?
Central Asian dress is quite conservative. Plan to pack loose-fitting light clothing appropriate for hot weather and plan to cover knees, shoulders and chest. For women, a hair scarf is recommended, though they are easy to buy in country.
Checklist
Cold Weather:o Long-sleeved shirts or sweatero Scarfo Warm gloveso Warm hato Warm layerso Warm waterproof jacketConservative Dress:o Modest clothing that covers knees and shoulders (Long pants, long skirts, shirts that cover shoulders)o Shawl or scarf (for temple visits)Documents:o Flight info (required) (Printouts of e-tickets may be required at the border)o Insurance info (required) (With photocopies)o Passport (required) (With photocopies)o Vouchers and pre-departure information (required)o Visas or vaccination certificates (With photocopies)Essentials:o Toiletries (required) (Shampoo, bodywash, soap, etc.)o Binoculars (optional)o Camera (With extra memory cards and batteries)o Cash, credit and debit cardso Day pack (Used for daily excursions or short overnights)o Ear plugso First-aid kit (should contain lip balm with sunscreen, sunscreen, whistle, Aspirin, Ibuprofen, bandaids/plasters, tape, anti-histamines, antibacterial gel/wipes, antiseptic cream, Imodium or similar tablets for mild cases of diarrhea, rehydration powder, water purification tablets or drops, insect repellent, sewing kit, extra prescription drugs you may be taking)o Flashlight/torch (Headlamps are ideal)o Fleece top/sweatero Footwearo Hato Headphones (Noise-cancelling recommended)o Locks for bagso Long pants/jeanso Moneybelto Outlet adaptero Personal entertainment (Reading and writing materials, cards, music player, etc.)o Reusable water bottleo Shirts/t-shirtso Sleepwearo Small travel towelo Sunglasseso Swimwearo Watch and alarm clocko Waterproof backpack covero Windproof rain jacketHealth & Safety:o Face masks (Clients will be only be required to wear a face mask where it is mandated by local regulations.)o Hand sanitizero Pen (Please bring your own pen for filling out documents.)Warm Weather:o Sandals/flip-flopso Shorts/skirts (Longer shorts/skirts are recommended)o Sturdy water shoes/sandalso Sun hat/bandanao Swimwear
What are the packing guidelines and luggage restrictions?
What you need to bring will vary according to the trip style you have chosen, the countries you are visiting and when you are travelling. Generally speaking though, you should pack as lightly as possible. On the vast majority of our trips you are expected to carry your own luggage (please see below for exceptions), and though you will not be required to walk long distances with your luggage (max 30 minutes) we recommend keeping the weight under 10kg/22lb.Suitcases are not recommended for G Adventures travellers! Most travellers carry their luggage in a backpack, although an overnight bag with a shoulder strap would suffice if you travel lightly. Smaller bags with wheels are acceptable, although we recommend your bag has carry straps as well, as you may be required to negotiate bus and railway station steps. You will also need a day pack/bag to carry water and a camera etc for day walks and day trips.
Service Level
Standard: Comfortable tourist-class accommodations with character; mix of public and private transport.
What are the tipping guidelines for this trip?
In Central Asia It is not customary to tip service providers such as waiters, but it is very appreciated, depending on the service we recommend 3-5%. Tipping shows an expression of satisfaction with the people who have assisted you on your tour. Although it may not be customary to you, it is of considerable significance to the people who will take care of you during your travels. There are several times during the trip where there is opportunity to tip the local guides or drivers we use. You may do this individually, or your CEO will offer to collect the money and tip as a group. Recommendations for tipping drivers and local guides would range from $3-$4 USD per person per day depending on the quality and length of the service; ask your CEO for specific recommendations based on the circumstances and culture. Also at the end of each trip if you felt your G Adventures CEO did an outstanding job, tipping is appreciated. The amount is entirely a personal preference, however as a guideline $4-7 USD per person, per day can be used.
Pricing and availability are subject to change and must be confirmed by one of our travel advisors, who can contact the vendor to do so. Intra-vacation air (also referred to as internal air) is usually based on economy class seating (do not assume otherwise, unless explicity noted otherwise) and may be 100% non-refundable at time of final payment. Air quotes (including intra-vacation airfare) may be subject to change until final payment has been received by the vendor. Flight confirmation may be based on availability. Air reservations may not be able to be confirmed until a passport copy is received by the vendor. The following charges are not included in the vacation price unless otherwise noted: airfare to and from the start of your vacation; airline baggage fees including checked and/or excess baggage fees; Federal inspection fees for the Federal U.S. Customs and Immigrations; International Air Transportation tax; agricultural tax; other per person taxes imposed by government entities; airport taxes and fees, including the September 11th Security fee, passenger facility charges, Federal domestic flight segment fees, and U.S. and international arrival and departure and other government-imposed fees added by the airline and applicable at time of booking; port taxes; passports; visas and vaccinations; tips to your Cruise Director, Local Host, driver, Local Guides, and/or ship's crew; gratuities on ferries, trains, and cruise ships; laundry; telephone; minibar; alcohol, beverages, and food outside of the contracted menu as presented at a hotel or restaurant or onboard your vessel (these extra items will be billed to you before leaving the hotel, ship, or restaurant); airport transfers on non-qualifying flights; optional excursions; additional activities and excursions purchased online; porterage at airports and train stations; Travel Protection; and all other items of a personal nature. Itinerary details are provided by the vendor. Vendors may reserve the right to change itineraries, even on existing reservations. There may be instances where the name of a tour contains a tour length in it, but where there is a version of the tour that is a different number of days in length. You can check the true length of a tour by referring to the length value listed in association with that tour. Destination images displayed on this web page, some which are supplied by the related vendor and some which are not, are intended to simply give a general representation of the region of the world being visited during the tour. Such images are not necessarily of the exact areas being visited during the tour. Hotel details (including, but not limited to: rating/class, descriptions, images, amenities and addresses) are provided by G Adventures. Hotel amenities may be communicated in shorthand by G Adventures (for example, if "Laundry" is listed that may only mean that the hotel has an optional fee-based service that would allow for your laundry to be done by their staff). We reserve the right to correct errors.