2026 Kyrgyzstan and World Nomad Games Tour
Our 2026 Kyrgyzstan World Nomad Games Tour is now SOLD OUT. Please complete the wait list form if you would like to be notified in case of any cancellations. Thank you.
After three sold-out trips through Kyrgyzstan, and many more further afield, we are beyond excited to announce the return of our flagship NOMADasaurus Tour – and this time it’s bigger than ever.
In 2026 we’ll be running an exclusive small-group adventure that doesn’t just explore Kyrgyzstan’s breathtaking landscapes and rich nomadic culture, but also places you right in the heart of the World Nomad Games, one of the most extraordinary cultural events on Earth.
Since first launching our Kyrgyzstan expeditions in 2018, we’ve spent years perfecting what we believe is the ultimate adventure itinerary for this fascinating nation. Having visited Kyrgyzstan over a dozen times over the years, we’ve worked alongside both local communities and international tourism organisations to promote authentic travel experiences that make a real impact.
Now, with NOMADasaurus Tours in its seventh year of operation, we’re proud to invite you on our most intrepid Kyrgyzstan journey yet – an immersive, 14-day adventure combining the raw beauty of the Tian Shan mountains, the timeless traditions of nomadic life, and front-row access to the World Nomad Games!
“A fantastic tour in a spectacular country. Alesha and Jarryd have used their vast travel experience to put together an absolutely superb tour, suitable for all ages of intrepid tourists who are ready for an off the tourist track adventure. One of the best tours I have ever done!”
Veronica, Kyrgyzstan tour participant
Just like our own travels, this tour of Kyrgyzstan is built to be fun, adventurous, and deeply cultural, with plenty of time outdoors. While everything is professionally organised in partnership with our industry-leading local operator, the vibe is more like a small group of friends discovering a country together than a rigid, packaged tour.
Our NOMADasaurus Tours are all about uncovering the world’s most fascinating destinations in a way that feels real. We’ve crafted an incredible itinerary, but we also keep things flexible – because true adventure can’t always be scheduled. If we stumble across a spontaneous kok boru match, or the mountains light up with a once-in-a-lifetime sunset, we’ll stop and soak it in.
Kyrgyzstan has been one of our favourite countries since our first visit back in 2015. We’ve returned again and again – twelve times and counting – because the landscapes, people, and culture keep pulling us back. And we can honestly say that every guest who joined our previous tours has fallen in love with this country the same way we have.
Now it’s your turn. Join us in 2026 and see why Kyrgyzstan is a place that stays with you forever.
“Take a leap into the unknown and stretch your horizons. Sleep in a yurt, explore wide open plains, ride a horse and learn to build a yurt. Experience the Kyrgyz culture and friendly people. Unmissable!”
2018 Kyrgyzstan tour participant
This exclusive 14-day expedition of Kyrgyzstan has been designed around one of the most extraordinary cultural events on the planet – the World Nomad Games – while still showcasing the breathtaking landscapes and authentic traditions that make this country so special.
We’ll begin in Bishkek, a vibrant city that mixes leafy parks and Soviet-era monuments with the backdrop of the mighty Tian Shan mountains. From there, we head into the wild canyons and rolling hills of the countryside, where our first nights will be spent in luxury yurts under star-filled skies.
The highlight of the early days is our time at the World Nomad Games on the shores of Issyk-Kul. You’ll witness the opening ceremony, explore the incredible Ethno Village in Kyrchyn Gorge, and even choose between a full day of traditional horse games or further immersion in nomadic crafts and performances. It’s an experience unlike anything else on Earth.
After the Games, we slow the pace with kayaking on Issyk-Kul, a cultural feast with a local Dungan family, and a deep dive into the history and cuisine of Karakol. The road then takes us higher into the mountains, where we’ll soak in hot springs on our way to the alpine village of Jyrgalan, spending two nights hiking, riding horses, and connecting with the locals who call this valley home.
Circling around the southern shore of Issyk-Kul, we’ll stop at legendary sites like Jety Oguz, the dramatic Barskoon Waterfalls, and the whimsical Fairy Tale Canyon, before settling into a traditional yurt camp in Ak Sai. Here you’ll not only hike to spectacular viewpoints, but also join in lighthearted nomadic games and cultural activities.
Our journey then climbs to the jewel of Kyrgyzstan—Son-Kul Lake—a dazzling high-altitude pasture where we’ll live the nomadic lifestyle, ride horses across vast plains, and stay in yurts by the water’s edge. This is the kind of place that lingers in your memory forever.
Finally, we return to Bishkek, stopping at the scenic Orto Tokoi Reservoir, before sharing one last farewell dinner together. By the end of the trip you’ll have experienced Kyrgyzstan’s wild beauty, nomadic traditions, and one of the world’s greatest cultural festivals—an adventure that will stay with you for a lifetime..
“Touring Kyrgyzstan with NOMADasaurus was an amazing experience. Jarryd and Alesha known the country very well and developed a well-paced and varied itinerary with the perfect mix of cultural and outdoor activities.”
Hope, Kyrgyzstan tour participant
For the entire tour you will be transported in two modern Mercedes Sprinter vans, ensuring there is plenty of space for all guests and luggage, and your accommodation will be a range of 3-star hotels, top guesthouses and luxury yurts camps. Included meals will be in reputable local restaurants or home-cooked meals with families.
You will be accompanied by an experienced Western tour leader, either Jarryd or Alesha, the co-founders of NOMADasaurus Tours, who will be on hand at all times to provide photography advice, workshops and ensure everything is running smoothly.
In addition there will be a certified, experienced Kyrgyz guide who is fluent in English. This will allow you to get an in-depth insight into the local culture, and ask any of the people you meet questions without fear of having words lost in translation.
I travelled to a country I knew nothing about with NOMADasaurus Tours and will rave about how magnificent it was! Not only do Jarryd and Alesha have a top notch blog, photography and tour company, they are true humanitarians making a difference in this world and creating connection for us all. Thank you for striving to bring us all together no matter where we are from. Bravo and thank you from the bottom of my heart!
Joan, Kyrgyzstan tour participant
While the itinerary is filled with exciting activities and cultural interactions, we’ve also left in some free time so you can pursue your own interests, practice your photography or simply relax in your beautiful surroundings.
This is going to be an incredible adventure to discover the highlights of Kyrgyzstan – an offbeat nation that is truly one of the most sensational travel destinations in the world.
- 2026 Kyrgyzstan Tour Dates: August 29th to September 11th
- Duration: 14 Days
- Start: Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan
- Finish: Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan
- Maximum Group Size: 12 people
- Fitness Level: Medium
2026 Kyrgyzstan World Nomad Games Tour Itinerary
This is the most comprehensive World Nomad Games tour available that not only encompasses the Opening Ceremony and popular cultural and sporting events of the festival, but the very best locations of Kyrgyzstan.
Our tour has been completely customised with the highest quality accommodation, guides and activities available. It really is the ultimate Kyrgyzstan tour.
Daily Schedule
Legend: B (Breakfast), L (Lunch), D (Dinner), S (Hot Showers), E (Electricity), W (WiFi)
August 29th – Bishkek
Accommodation – 3 Star Hotel
Your adventure kicks off in Bishkek, the nation’s capital city where leafy boulevards meet the towering peaks of the Tian Shan.
After we pick you up at the airport, you’ll settle into the hotel and then dive straight into the action. Together we’ll wander Ala-Too Square, pause at the Victory Monument, and weave through the fascinating chaos of Osh Bazaar, where spices, textiles, and chatter create a symphony of Central Asian life.
In the evening we gather for a group dinner to meet your fellow travellers and set the stage for the weeks ahead..
- Meals Included: D
- Facilities: S, E, W
Accommodation – Luxury Yurts
Leaving Bishkek behind, the scenery changes fast as we wind into the mountains.
Our first stop is Kok Moinok Canyon, a surreal labyrinth of red rock carved into impossible shapes by wind and water.
After soaking it all in (and grabbing plenty of photos), we continue to Altyn Bulak resort, tucked into rolling hills. Here you’ll settle into a luxury yurt, breathe in the crisp mountain air, and watch the stars ignite above you..
- Meals Included: B, L, D
- Facilities: S, E
Accommodation – 3-Star Hotel
Today we head for the northern shores of Lake Issyk-Kul, one of the largest alpine lakes on Earth.
After checking into our lakeside hotel near Cholpon-Ata, the anticipation builds – we’re off to the World Nomad Games opening ceremony!
Picture fireworks, horsemen thundering across the arena, dancers in colourful dress, and delegations from dozens of nations celebrating nomadic culture. It’s a spectacle that has to be seen to be believed..
- Meals Included: B, L, D
- Facilities: S, E, W
September 1st – Ethno Festival in Kyrchyn Gorge
Accommodation – 3-Star Hotel
Step into a living museum in Kyrchyn Gorge, where a sprawling Ethno Village springs up just for the Games.
Hundreds of yurts line the valley, musicians play folk instruments, and artisans demonstrate ancient crafts. Watch eagles swoop to their handlers, archers draw their bows, and wrestlers clash in raw contests of strength. It’s nomadic life in full colour, brought to life in one magical setting..
- Meals Included: B, L, D
- Facilities: S, E, W
September 2nd – The Horse Games
Accommodation – 3-Star Hotel
At the hippodrome, experience the adrenaline of traditional horse games like Kok Boru (goat polo), horseback archery, and wrestling. The energy is fierce and unforgettable.
- Meals Included: B, L, D
- Facilities: S, W, E
September 3rd – Karakol
Accommodation – 3-Star Guesthouse
We follow the north shore of Issyk-Kul, stopping at a quiet bay for a peaceful kayaking session.
Paddling beneath mountain peaks, the silence is broken only by the dip of your paddle. Afterwards, we’re invited into the home of a Dungan family, an ethnic minority famous for their cuisine, where we’ll share a table laden with homemade dishes and stories.
In the afternoon, we explore Karakol, a crossroads town with colourful bazaars and wooden architecture that reflects its diverse heritage.
- Meals Included: B, L, D
- Facilities: S, W, E
September 4th – Karakol to Jyrgalan
Accommodation – 3 Star Guesthouse
Today’s journey takes us deeper into the mountains.
We’ll pause to soak in natural hot springs before arriving in Jyrgalan Valley, a hidden alpine gem once known only as a mining village. Now, it’s Kyrgyzstan’s rising eco-tourism star.
Settle into a cozy guesthouse, enjoy a hearty dinner, and take in the crisp mountain air—it feels a world away.
- Meals Included: B, L, D
- Facilities: S, E, W
September 5th – Jyrgalan
Accommodation – 3 Star Guesthouse
Jyrgalan is the kind of place you’ll never want to leave, and today is yours to soak up its beauty.
Hike wildflower meadows and rolling ridgelines, saddle up for a horseback ride through the high pastures, or simply enjoy the stillness of the valley.
Along the way, you’ll meet locals who share their stories of nomadic traditions. In the evening, we gather around the table for a home-cooked meal before the stars put on their nightly show.
- Meals Included: B, L, D
- Facilities: S, E, W
September 6th – Jyrgalan to Issyk Kul’s South Shore
Accommodation – Luxury Yurt Camp
We journey around the southern shore of Issyk-Kul, and the landscapes just keep getting better.
First up are the dramatic red cliffs of Jety Oguz, then we continue to the whimsical Fairy Tale Canyon, where rocks take the shape of dragons, castles, and creatures of legend. By evening, we reach our yurt camp and fall asleep to the silence of the mountains.
- Meals Included: B, L, D
- Facilities: S, E, W
September 7th – South Shore to Ak Sai
Accommodation – Luxury Yurt Camp
Wake up in the yurts and hike to a high viewpoint where the valleys open wide beneath you.
In the afternoon, we step straight into Kyrgyz tradition with interactive nomadic games – from archery and tug-of-war to friendly competitions with locals. It’s fun, educational, and a chance to experience the playfulness at the heart of nomadic life.
In the evening we’ll witness a traditional Kyrgyz eagle hunter give a full demonstration of how he uses his bird of prey to assist with providing for his family. We’ll all have the opportunity to get up close and personal with the eagle as well for a fantastic photo shoot.
- Meal Included: B, L, D
- Facilities: S, E, W
September 8th – Ak Sai to Son-Kul
Accommodation – Luxury Yurt Camp
Today we climb higher into the mountains, following winding roads and open pastures until the glittering blue expanse of Son-Kul Lake appears.
At 3,000 metres, this is the crown jewel of Kyrgyz nomadic culture. We’ll settle into a lakeside yurt camp where herders graze their flocks and the vast sky feels endless.
- Meals Included: B, L, D
- Facilities: S, E
September 9th – Son-Kul
Accommodation – Luxury Yurt Camp
Spend a full day living the rhythm of the jailoo (summer pasture).
Ride horses across the open plains, hike along the lakeshore, or relax and take in the silence. You’ll meet nomadic families, learn how to bake bread and taste kumis (fermented mare’s milk).
As the sun sinks, painting the lake in hues of pink and gold, you’ll see why Son-Kul holds such a sacred place in Kyrgyz hearts.
- Meals Included: B, L, D
- Facilities: S, E
September 10th – Son-Kul to Bishkek
Accommodation: 3 Star Hotel
After breakfast we say goodbye to the yurts and descend back towards the lowlands.
On the way we’ll stop at the Orto Tokoi Reservoir, a calm lake reflecting the high skies, before reaching Bishkek.
Tonight, we celebrate our journey with a farewell dinner, swapping stories and laughs from our time together..
- Meals Included: B, L, D
- Facilities: S, E, W
September 11th – Depart Bishkek
All adventures must sadly come to an end.
After breakfast, we’ll transfer you to the airport for your flight home. You’ll leave Kyrgyzstan with new friends, lifelong memories, and a heart full of stories that will stay with you long after you return.
What’s Included
- Accommodation: Twin rooms in 3-star hotels and local guesthouses. Maximum 4 people to a yurt.
- All meals mentioned in the itinerary.
- Transport: Two air-conditioned, modern Mercedes Sprinter vans for all passengers and luggage throughout the entire tour.
- Airport transfers: Pick up and drop-off at the airport for your flight when arriving and departing on the designated dates in this itinerary.
- All activities included in the itinerary.
- English-speaking, certified and experienced local guide.
- Two experienced local drivers.
- Photography workshops and advice.
- One Western trip leader (Jarryd or Alesha from NOMADasaurus)
- Two litres of bottled or filtered water per person, per day.
- Entrance fees to the World Nomad Games’ opening ceremony, the ethno-festival, horse events, the museums and archeological sites.
What’s Not Included
- International airfares to and from Bishkek.
- Travel insurance (mandatory to join our tour).
- Any meals or snacks not included in the itinerary.
- Alcoholic beverages.
- Laundry
- Optional activities.
- Tips for drivers and local guide (Optional)
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a visa to visit Kyrgyzstan?
For many nationalities a 60-day visa waiver program is granted for free when landing in Kyrgyzstan. There is no need for a letter of invitation or to visit your embassy beforehand. Double-check your status here, or with your local embassy.
What is the food like in Kyrgyzstan?
Food in Kyrgyzstan is surprisingly hearty and delicious. Noodle dishes and soups are common, as are fried samosas and vegetables. The most common meat is mutton, beef and chicken. On our Kyrgyzstan tours we eat in high quality restaurants and enjoy home-cooked meals in local guesthouses.
I’m a vegetarian. Will I be ok with the food in Kyrgyzstan?
While most traditional meals are served with meat in Kyrgyzstan, all the places we will be eating at are used to serving tourists and can cater to vegetarians. Please keep in mind that the variety of fresh fruit and vegetables isn’t as plentiful in Central Asia as they are in other parts of the world, but the food will still be delicious.
If you are a vegan you will have a very hard time in Kyrgyzstan, as dairy products are used in the preparation of many dishes. Please seriously consider this before booking your trip.
Is Kyrgyzstan safe?
We are very pleased to say that Kyrgyzstan is one of the safest countries in all of Asia. Crime is low, and petty crime against tourists is very rare. Unlike some of its neighbours, Kyrgyzstan is also relatively free of political and religious turmoil. There is one region of the country that has some issues, but we won’t be travelling anywhere near it. Safety is our number one priority.
What is it like sleeping in a yurt?
The yurts we will be staying in are large, spacious, have a solid floor, and while they typically sleep 4-5 people, on our tours we’ll be doing our best to try and keep the numbers at 2 maximum to a yurt, although this is not guaranteed. We have upgraded our yurt accommodation this year to be of a higher quality, and you will be provided with proper mattresses and blankets.
What is the other accommodation like?
We will be staying in a mixture of 3 star hotels and local, comfortable guesthouses. In most destinations, we have selected the absolute best options for accommodation in each town and village.
Is there a single supplement?
While in previous years we have had single supplements, for 2026 we have decided to do away with them as our new itinerary means that while there are plenty of excellent twin accommodation, single rooms aren’t as plentiful. After much consideration we believe it is best not to offer it as it will not result in excellent value for the guest. If you are a single traveller you will be paired with another person of the same sex for the duration of the tour. If you would like to upgrade to single rooms in Bishkek and Karakol please let us know after booking your spot on the tour.
What will the bathroom facilities be like around the country?
In all of our accommodation western-style toilets will be available, even at the yurt camps. Facilities ‘on the road’ might not be so glamorous, and if you need to use a bathroom in one of the gas stations or restaurants en route you may find they are squat toilets.
Our accommodation in Song Kul, Ak Sai and Chong Kemin can only offer clean, shared bathroom facilities. Please keep this in mind before booking our trip.
Will there be WiFi or phone service?
There will be wifi or phone service available in all places except for Song Kul. The speeds do vary from quite fast in Bishkek and Karakol, to very slow in smaller towns and villages. 3G and 4G is available in many places around the country.
The tour guide, leader and drivers will have access to phones in case of emergency. If you would like to purchase a local SIM card we recommend you do so on the day of arrival in Bishkek.
What transport will you have organised for us?
We have organised two modern Mercedes Sprinters with a capacity of 12 people each to transport the group around. This ensures we won’t be overcrowding the vehicle and will have room for luggage and camera gear.
What is the weather like in August and September in Kyrgyzstan?
While temperatures around 40 degrees are possible in Bishkek, up in the mountains of Jyrgalan and Son Kul the temperature can drop to below freezing at night. Please bring adequate clothing for any conditions. We will be sending out a complete packing list to confirmed participants on this tour.
Will we be at altitude during this trip?
Yes. The highest altitude we will be reaching on this trip is in Song Kul, which is just over 3000m above sea level. On some of the hikes in Jyrgalan you can reach altitudes of over 3500m. If you have ever had any issues with altitude sickness before please seek medical advice before booking this tour. If you do experience any altitude sickness during the trip we will immediately take you to lower elevations.
Can I charge my electronics during the tour?
In all of the hotels and guesthouses except for Song Kul there are electrical outlets to charge your devices. Our accommodation in Ak Sai also has limited electricity in some of the yurts and dining area. We recommend bringing a USB power bank to keep your accessories charged.
Can I take pictures of the people in Kyrgyzstan?
Yes! In general the people in Kyrgyzstan are very friendly and open to having their pictures taken. Usually all it takes is a smile and to ask if you can, and they’ll happily pose for you. In some places like the markets and bazaars the vendors prefer not to be photographed, so always ask before pointing a camera in their face. Our local guide can always assist when communicating with people.
What kind of fitness level is required to join this tour?
A decent level of fitness is required to take part in this tour, as many of the activities involve hiking, horse trekking and spending time at altitude.
If for any reason you feel uncomfortable with some of the adventure activities you can choose not to do them, and other, lighter alternatives will be found for you.
Is there an age limit for this tour?
There is a minimum age of 18 to join this tour. There is no maximum age limit to join, but please keep in mind the fitness levels as specified above.
How much spending money should I bring with me?
ATMs that accept foreign debit cards like MasterCard and Visa are available in Bishkek and Karakol, so you can choose how much spending money you want once you are in the country. As a general idea though USD$250 should be plenty for snacks, alcohol and souvenirs for the 14 days.
Kyrgyzstan World Nomad Games Tour Cost – SOLD OUT
(Maximum 12 People – SOLD OUT)
- A non-refundable deposit of USD$900 is required to secure your position on this tour.
- The remainder of the cost is required by 1st of May, 2026
- Payment can be made via bank transfer.
As places are limited we will be sending out payment details in order of when the registration forms have been received. The earlier you complete the form, the sooner we will send you the payment information.
Once you receive the payment information you will have 24 hours to pay the deposit before we forward details to the next person in line. For this reason we recommend only completing the registration details once you’re ready to pay the deposit. Thanks very much for your understanding.
Cancellation Policy
If for any reason you need to cancel your position on this tour you will forfeit your deposit (unfortunately we will be using the deposit to pay for accommodation and activities as soon as it is received. We strongly recommend you purchase travel insurance with trip cancellation options.)
If you have already paid in full this is the percentage of refund available:
- Before 28th February 2026 – 100% of total trip cost (minus deposit)
- Between 1st March and 31st March 2026 — 70% of total trip cost (minus deposit)
- Between 1st April and 30th April 2026 – 50% of total trip cost (minus deposit)
- After 1st May 2026 – No refund available.
- 14 Days
- Max: 12 Guests
- SOLD OUT
Kyrgyzstan World Nomad Games Tour
Join us on this exclusive 14-day Kyrgyzstan World Nomad Games tour, encompassing the best of the festival and the country with an intimate, small group.
Product Currency: USD
Product Price: 3600
Product In-Stock: PreOrder
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