Authentic Kyrgyzstan

I had been to Kyrgyzstan before, but only to the cities and to Issyk Kul. However, I really wanted to get out of the cities and visit more of the countryside and do some trekking through Naryn Oblast especially. The tour with Nomad's Land was excellent for this purpose as there were treks around Issyk Kul, Song Kul, as well as in the mountains near the Chinese border around the caravanserai at Tash Rabat, the last 3 of which we got to stay in yurts and witness nomadic life -- especially near Song Kul. The tour began in Bishkek and the guide was very knowledgeable about the city and the country. Afterwards the hikes were at various altitudes to acclimatize us, finally finishing with a horseback ride and hike at over 4000 meters. This last one was rough for me (I'm 54 years old), but with the previous hikes, I managed to make it. Actually, the horseback riding wore me out more than the hiking, but it was fun and the guides around the country were all helpful and great. There were also cultural things we did as well, like visit a yurt maker and have traditional Kyrgyz meals in peoples' homes. All in all, a very worthwhile and enjoyable trip that gives a great overall picture of Kyrgyzstan.

Traveling to Kyrgyztan has been wonderful. I love people,their landscape...I love everything. I'm very grateful to Nomad's Land and especially to Mikel, our lovely guide. He fulfills all the qualities of a good guide. Mikel is patient,kind,friendly,with a great culture...and much more. He's special.He's a great person. I hope to coincide again in another adventure with him.