Ski Adventure Kyrgyzstan

Ski adventure Kyrgyzstan

Ski Adventure Kyrgyzstan

The Kyrgyzstan Ski Adventure is our most famous ski tour. In 8 days, we will explore the remarkable highlights of skiing in Kyrgyzstan. Don’t expect comfortable chairlifts, groovy after-ski pubs or Ceasar salads. Get yourself ready for adventure, yurts and shashliks.

Almost 90% of Kyrgyzstan lies above 3000 meters, making it a mountainous paradise. The country has simplified travel by abolishing visa regulations for the USA and most European countries. Ryce Travel is a foundation dedicated to supporting Community Based Tourism (CBT). Booking a tour through Ryce Travel ensures that local communities benefit from tourism and supports local projects.

As always, we work predominantly with local partners and guides. As a non-profit tour agency, we support tourism in developing countries, providing you with an authentic local experience while ensuring that locals earn a decent income. Additionally, we help foster local initiatives to grow (winter) tourism.

Your Kyrgyzstan Ski Adventure

On Sunday, the Kyrgyzstan Ski Adventure begins in the capital city of Bishkek. We'll start the day with a quick city tour before heading to Karakol, the ski capital. Our journey will take us along the northern shore of Lake Issyk Kul, offering stunning views of the Tian Shan mountain range. We’ll stop for lunch in Cholpon Ata, a charming resort town along the way.

Lake Issyk Kul, the second-largest alpine lake in the world, is an environmental phenomenon. It doesn't freeze due to underwater hot springs, creating a unique microclimate that results in considerable more snow in eastern Kyrgyzstan. Exactly, that's where we are heading.

In Karakol, we will stay for 5 nights in a local hotel run by a welcoming family who will prepare most of our meals. The hotel is modern, featuring twin/triple rooms with ensuite bathrooms and reliable Wi-Fi.

Additionally, we will spend one night in a shared yurt at our yurt camp, providing you with a unique and authentic Kyrgyz experience.

This journey will allow you to explore the stunning beauty of Kyrgyzstan and discover the region's highlights. You will be as amazed by this beautiful country as we have been time and time again. Below, you can find a description of all the activities planned for your adventure.

Karakol Ski base

We will spend the first two days in the ski resort of Karakol. It’s just 15 km outside of the city. The highest point is at 3100 meters and the resort’s bottom is at 2200 meters. Karakol’s slopes are surprisingly well-groomed and serviced by some snow canons too. The area is quite challenging and very well-suited for freeriding and tree runs. Our evening activities entail an après ski night (with Karaoke) and a dip in a natural hot spring near Ak Suu.

Cat Skiing

For two days, we'll have exclusive access to our private Pistenbully. The driver of this snow groomer will transport us to various peaks in the Jyrgalan valley, one of the most pristine areas of Kyrgyzstan, offering challenging terrain and views of Kazakhstan. You can ascend comfortably in our covered cabin.

The runs cater to all skill levels: intermediate skiers and boarders can stay on the gentler slopes, while experienced freeriders can tackle higher and steeper terrain. We can enjoy around 6-10 runs a day, with lunch provided on the mountain. Plus, we have our own custom-built snow bar for a unique mountain experience.

Spend a night in a yurt camp

One of the highlights of the tour is spending a night in our yurt camp. Situated at an altitude of 2200 meters, this camp is a collaboration with a local guide. Designed to offer an authentic yet comfortable experience of traditional Kyrgyz living. The yurt, the quintessential Kyrgyz home, has been adapted to withstand the cold mountain conditions.

Each yurt is equipped with a heater to ensure a cozy and warm stay. In addition to the yurts, there is a Russian banya (sauna) located next to an ice-cold stream, offering a perfect way to relax after a day of adventure. Imagine stepping out of the steaming banya and plunging into the icy waters, an invigorating experience that will leave you feeling refreshed and revitalized.

As night falls, you'll be treated to a breathtaking display of stars. The high altitude and remote location provide an unobstructed view of the night sky, with countless bright stars twinkling above. This serene and magical setting is perfect for stargazing.

Spending the night in our yurt camp is not just about accommodation; it's about immersing yourself in the culture and traditions of Kyrgyzstan. Offering a glimpse into the traditional way of life in one of the most beautiful and unspoiled regions of the world.

Horse riding with downhill run

After a short walk in the Jeti Oguz valley, we will get ourselves ready for a magnificent tour along red mountains and deep snow.

Our journey begins with a horseback ride to an altitude of 2500 meters, offering us the chance to traverse a variety of landscapes. Upon reaching our destination, we’ll retrieve our equipment from the horses and embark on a freeride run back to Kyzyl Suu.

This descent is easy and not overly challenging, making it accessible for most skill levels. The true highlight is the ascent, with its breathtaking scenery. The stunning views and serene environment make this experience truly memorable.

On Saturday morning, you have the option to join us for a city tour in Karakol. We will visit the Russian Orthodox Church, explore the local bazaar, and stop by some souvenir shops. After lunch, we will begin our leisurely drive back to the capital, Bishkek. This time, we’ll take the scenic southern route, with an incredible stop at the Fairy Tale Valley. Once in Bishkek, we will have a farewell dinner and go to our hotel.

In the early morning, we have to go back to the airport for your return flight. The Turkish Airlines flight leaves at 10:55.  If your departure is earlier, we can help you organizing a transfer

Ski Kyrgyzstan for you?

• Adventurers looking for something different than the Alps
• Easily tackle a ‘red slope’
• Lovers of other cultures and rituals

Included

• Transfer Bishkek – Karakol and vv
• 5 nights in a local hotel in Karakol
• 1 night in a hotel in Bishkek
• 1 night in a traditional yurt
• Half board (breakfast/dinner)
• Short city tour Bishkek
• English speaking guide
• Local guides
• 2 days cat skiing
• beeper, shovel and probe for cat skiing
• Horse rent with guide
• Entrance fee hot springs
• Visit to Fairy tale valley
• Russian banya
• Ski passes

Not included

• Flights (€350-€550 from Europe)
• Lunch
• Alcoholic drinks
• Tips & souvenirs
• Ski or snowboard rental
• Travel insurance

Booking flights

Don’t book any flights yet! As soon as we have reached the minimum amount of reservations (5) we will send you an e-mail. If we don’t have enough participants we will contact you at least 40 days before departure. (*) We recommend flying Turkish Airlines as the airline usually takes luggage for free. 

Recommended flights below:

DEPARTURE (Turkish Airlines)
SUNDAY
00:05 IST Istanbul – 09:30 FRU Bishkek

RETURN (Turkish Airlines)
SUNDAY
10:55 FRU Bishkek – 14:15 IST Istanbul

* we didn’t have to cancel any trips due to a lack of reservations so far

Travel as a group?

If you want to travel as a group of at least 5 people, you can request a tailor-made trip. Other departure dates are usually possible in consultation. Please contact us via mail@rycetravel.com or WhatsApp at +31 6 48 72 90 47.