u/Ok_Plan_4436

Planning an 8-day trip to Kyrgyzstan with 3 friends towards the end of May, and would love some feedback from people who’ve done something similar.

Here’s our rough itinerary:

Day 1–2:

- Bishkek → Kyzart → horse riding to Kilemche Valley

- Continue horse riding to Song-Kol Lake (yurt stay)

Day 3–4:

- Drive to Issyk-Kol (south shore)

- Visit Ak-Say Canyon, Fairy Tale Canyon, Barskoon waterfalls, Jety-Oguz

- Reach Karakol

Day 5–7:

- Trek to Altyn-Arashan (12 km)

- Attempt Ala-Kol trek (19 km, ~3900 m pass)

- Trek back and stay in Karakol

Day 8:

- Drive back to Bishkek

A couple of things about us:

- Decently active but not hardcore technical trekkers

- First time in Central Asia

- One of us (me) is plant based, so trying to plan food a bit in advance

Would love advice on:

- Any dos and don’ts for this route?

- Anything people usually underestimate (weather, altitude, logistics)?

- How realistic is Ala-Kol in late May?

- Anything we should definitely carry but might forget?

- Any cultural etiquette we should be aware of?

- How is the coffee scenario there?

- How open are the hiking agency to discuss about 🍁?

Also open to any suggestions on:

- food hacks (especially plant-based options in rural areas)

- must-not-miss spots along this route

- Appreciate any insights 🙏