Explore Issyk Kul: Small-Group Day Trip from Bishkek
Overview
Available languages
Mobile ticket
Escape the city and discover the beauty of Issyk Kul Lake on this small-group day trip from Bishkek. Begin with a visit to Burana Tower, a historic minaret from the ancient Silk Road, before heading to the crystal-clear waters of Issyk Kul. Take in breathtaking mountain views on a scenic boat ride (April–October), then unwind in natural hot springs, known for their relaxing and healing properties. This perfect blend of nature and history makes for an unforgettable Kyrgyz adventure!
Additional Info
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
What To Expect
Bishkek
Your journey begins at 7:20 AM, where you’ll meet your guide and fellow travelers at the designated meeting point in Bishkek. After a short introduction, you’ll board a comfortable minibus and set off for a full-day adventure to Issyk Kul Lake, passing through beautiful mountain landscapes along the way.
Burana Tower and Konorchek Canyon
The first stop is Burana Tower, a historic minaret from the 11th century, once part of an ancient Silk Road city. Climb to the top for stunning views, visit the small museum, and explore ancient stone carvings (balbals) scattered around the site. Your guide will share fascinating stories about its history and importance in Kyrgyzstan’s past.
What‘s Included
Professional English-speaking guide
Comfortable mini bus during the day
Bottled water
Admission tickets to Burana Tower, Boat Tour, and Petroglyphs
Lunch not included
Admissions to Ruh Ordo and Hot Springs (around 6USD per person)
Options
Explore Issyk Kul: Small-Group Day Trip from Bishkek
Reviews
9 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Highly recommended
daushasan,,Dec 5, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Had a very nice time with the tour. The guide Anvir is very knowledgeable and friendly. I didn't feel rushed and he explains every places that we went to and answered all our questions when asked. Overall it's worth every money spent. Totally recommended.
Amazing Day Trip for Unforgettable Views
kevinzI7199LI,,Oct 22, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Wonderful trip, Adelit was a great tour guide , very thoughtful and knowledgeable. The views during the drives are absolutely stunning. Lunch stop was great too. Highly recommend!
Krygisthan trip
PRETTY,,Oct 17, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00Amazing trip and visiting the lake is a must things to do. The recommended place to see were worth of our time specially watching the train on the way
No response, incorrect pickup time
David A,,Aug 29, 2025
- Review from Viator
2.00No response from operator through Viator nor emailing them through their website. Driver was 40 minutes late from stated meetup time. Got a refund and joined another tour.
A day trip to Issy Kul
Jatish S,,Jun 13, 2025
- Review from Viator
4.00A long drive to the lake and back. Plan to stay overnight to get full lake experience... Wonderful lake and surroundings. Petrogluphs were not very impressive.
Great day around Yssyk Köl Lake
Rafe Y,,Jun 13, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00So I was taken on time by the driver and guide Eldar. So we headed off to our first point Burana Tower. Eldar explained a lot about the history. Afterwards we went the ruins of Balasugun City, where we walked around at our own pace. Then we visited a Thermal Spa, which was a nice experience, they even sold bathing cloths, if you didn't consider to visit it before, that was super handy. Last point was a ferry ship trip on Issyk kul, which was also very nice and rounded off this relaxed trip. Eldar wasn't always able to describe everything in English, but he was a safe driver and an affectionated as well as an attentive guide. Highly recommended!
Not a serious provider
Mauricio A,,Jun 2, 2025
- Review from Viator
1.00This company should be excluded from viator. They sent me a message cancelling my tour less than 12 hour before the trip and told me point blank: “we wont give your money back”. Avoid it
Not a trustworthy and professionally company
PrettoMauricio,,Jun 2, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
1.00I’ve booked this tour and the day before I sent them a message confirming the departure time because i did not receive any message. The company reached out to me and said due to weather issues the tour was cancelled, less then 12 hours before the start. There was no weather issues, they just didn’t want to do the tour, also they sent me a message saying they woudnt give my money back. AVOID!
A great tour at a...
Andrii R,,May 13, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00A great tour at a reasonable price. There were several stops, museums, snacks, a new vehicle, and a boat cruise on the lake.
Related Experiences
Operated by Budget Nomad Tours Kyrgyzstan