Day 2
Chon Kemin – Canyons – Eagle Hunting Show – Yurt Stay
After a home-cooked breakfast, we leave Chon Kemin and drive towards the south shore of Issyk-Kul Lake, enjoying a day filled with nature and culture.
First, we stop for a scenic hike. Choose between the Kok-Moynok Canyons, perfect for a gentle 1-hour walk through colorful rock formations, or the impressive Konorchek Canyons, where a 2-3 hour hike takes you deeper into dramatic red landscapes. After the hike, we enjoy lunch in Balykchy, a quiet town on the lake.
In the afternoon, we visit Bokonbaevo village, where you’ll experience one of Kyrgyzstan’s most exciting traditions — eagle hunting. During the private show, you’ll watch a golden eagle soar through the air, land on the hunter’s arm, and demonstrate hunting techniques used for centuries. The hunter will share stories of how these powerful birds are trained from a young age, and you’ll see the close bond between them. You’ll also have the chance to hold the eagle, take unforgettable photos, and feel the weight and strength of this majestic bird. Afterward, enjoy a fun archery lesson, where you can try traditional bows guided by the hunter.
As the day ends, we check into our lakeside yurt camp. Share a warm dinner in a big yurt with fellow travelers and local hosts, then rest in your own cozy yurt, falling asleep to the sounds of Issyk-Kul’s peaceful waves.