4-star hotels in Almaty and Bishkek. Guesthouses at Issyk-Kul. Traditional yurt camp at Son-Kul. All properties briefed on Muslim-friendly requirements.
Silk Road Explorer: Kazakhstan & Kyrgyzstan
About this journey
An adventurous journey through two of Central Asia's most spectacular countries. From Almaty's modern cityscape to the shores of Issyk-Kul Lake and the mountains of Kyrgyzstan, experience nomadic culture with Muslim-friendly arrangements throughout.
See the day-by-day itinerary →Why this tour is Muslim-friendly
Both Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan are Muslim-majority countries. Halal food is the default in most local restaurants. Mosques are available in all cities and towns. Yurt camp meals are prepared with halal meat. Prayer facilities are arranged at every overnight stop.
The itinerary
Every day is planned around prayer times and verified halal dining. Nothing here is filler.
- 01 Day
Arrival in Almaty
Arrive at Almaty Airport. Transfer to hotel. Evening walk along Panfilov Park and visit the Central Mosque. Welcome dinner at halal restaurant.
- 02 Day
Almaty City and Mountains
Morning visit to Green Bazaar and Kok-Tobe hill. Afternoon trip to Big Almaty Lake in the mountains. Halal lunch included.
- 03 Day
Almaty to Charyn Canyon
Full day trip to Charyn Canyon — the 'Grand Canyon of Central Asia'. Picnic lunch in the canyon. Return to Almaty evening.
- 04 Day
Almaty to Bishkek
Cross the border into Kyrgyzstan. Arrive in Bishkek. Visit Ala-Too Square and Osh Bazaar. Halal dinner at local restaurant.
- 05 Day
Bishkek to Issyk-Kul
Drive to Lake Issyk-Kul, the world's second-largest alpine lake. Check into lakeside guesthouse. Afternoon swimming and beach. Halal dinner.
- 06 Day
Issyk-Kul South Shore
Explore the south shore petroglyphs and Fairy Tale Canyon. Visit a traditional Kyrgyz village. Halal lunch with local family.
- 07 Day
Issyk-Kul to Son-Kul
Drive into the mountains to Son-Kul Lake at 3,000m. Stay in a traditional yurt camp. Experience nomadic Kyrgyz life. Halal dinner in yurt.
- 08 Day
Son-Kul Experience
Morning horse riding on the jailoo (summer pasture). Interact with nomadic herders. Afternoon at leisure in the mountains. Halal meals in camp.
- 09 Day
Son-Kul to Bishkek
Return drive to Bishkek through mountain passes. Afternoon at leisure for shopping. Farewell halal dinner.
- 10 Day
Departure
Transfer to Manas International Airport, Bishkek. Departure assistance provided.
Where you sleep, what you eat
Full breakfast daily. 7 halal lunches and 8 halal dinners included. Yurt camp meals are halal by default (meat-based Kyrgyz cuisine).
What's included
11 Included in the price
- 9 nights accommodation (hotels, guesthouse, yurt)
- Airport transfers
- Private 4x4 transport throughout
- Border crossing assistance
- English-speaking guide
- All entrance fees
- Horse riding at Son-Kul
- 7 halal lunches, 8 halal dinners
- Daily breakfast
- Prayer facility information
- 24/7 local support
6 Not included
- International flights
- Travel insurance
- Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan visas (if required)
- Personal expenses
- Sleeping bag for yurt (can be rented)
- Tips
Available dates
1 departure still open. Private departures can be arranged on any date.
- June 1, 2026 Sold Out
- July 5, 2026 Sold Out
- August 10, 2026 Sold Out
- September 1, 2026 Enquire about the September 1, 2026 departure
A look at the route
About this tour
The questions travellers ask us most about the Silk Road Explorer: Kazakhstan & Kyrgyzstan. Anything else, just ask — we answer every enquiry personally.
Is Central Asia safe for tourists?
Yes. Both Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan are safe and welcoming for tourists. Our local guides accompany you throughout and we provide 24/7 support.
Do I need a visa?
Many nationalities get visa-free entry to both countries. We provide full visa guidance based on your passport during booking.
How difficult is the yurt camp stay?
The yurt camp is a comfortable glamping-style experience. Yurts have proper beds and bedding. Bathroom facilities are basic but clean. It's an unforgettable experience.
Is the altitude at Son-Kul a problem?
Son-Kul is at 3,000m. Most travellers adjust fine since the itinerary builds altitude gradually. We advise on altitude preparation before departure.
Let's plan your Central Asia trip
Tell us your dates and group size and we'll come back with a tailored quote — usually within one working day.
10 Days / 9 Nights · from $1,890 per person · Adventure tour