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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.
Our Kyrgyzstan & the World Nomad Games tour will see you exploring the most iconic sites, delving into deep-rooted culture and dining on delicious cuisine.
Kyrgyzstan's capital, known for its Soviet-era architecture and bustling bazaars
Discover the iconic “Seven Bulls” rock formation and serene landscapes
Kyrgyzstan’s largest lake, sitting at an altitude of over 1,600 metres
Wander among striking red rock formations
Feel the adrenaline at the 2026 World Nomad Games, witnessing thrilling horseback wrestling, fast-paced Kok-Boru, and daring golden eagle hunting competitions. Either experience the vibrant Opening or grand Closing Ceremony.
Experience the nomadic lifestyle in comfort, staying in a yurt camp with private en suite bathroom. Wake up by Issyk-Kul Lake, surrounded by stunning mountain scenery.
Join the locals in Karakol as you soak in a naturally warm, mineral-rich hot spring, surrounded by the mountain. A simple, traditional way to relax and recharge.
This is a once-in-a-lifetime journey that pairs Kyrgyzstan's most spectacular natural and cultural highlights with front-row access to the World Nomad Games. Designed to make every day count, it immerses you in mountain landscapes, vibrant nomadic traditions and a global celebration of heritage that few travellers ever experience.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
You will be transferred to the airport for your onward flight. Late checkout is not included.
Places Visited: Bishkek 2N - Cholpon-Ata 2N - Karakol 1N - Tamga Yurt 2N - Chon-Kemin 1N - Bishkek 1N
If your tour departs in less than 30 days, please call our travel experts to book. Read our Price Match Promise
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Dedicated Solo departures are available on selected dates for this tour.
These solos-only departures feature smaller group sizes of up to 18, along with free airport lounge access.
There are no dedicated Solo departures for this year. You can enjoy any of our tours with no Single Supplement on our Happy to Share option or explore the solo departures in other years.
The same great Wendy Wu tour - just with an extra level of comfort. Enjoy relaxed 5-star city hotels, unique properties, and overnight cruises, each selected to deliver an elevated experience. See Upgraded Tour Hotels above for more details.
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