Latest posts
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What to Pack for a Song Kul Horse Trek in Kyrgyzstan

If you’re planning to go horseback riding to Song Kul Lake in Kyrgyzstan, figuring out what to pack can be a little confusing. You’re spending several days in the mountains, sleeping in yurts, riding a horse for around five hours a day, and dealing with weather that can change quickly. At the same time, you…
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10 Things I Wish I Knew Before a Horse Trek in Kyrgyzstan

Going on a 3-day horseback riding trip to Song Kul Lake in Kyrgyzstan was an amazing experience. However, there were a few things I wish I knew before embarking. From challenges like steep trails to the cold weather even in summer, there were a few times I was caught off guard. If you’re thinking about…
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The Ultimate One-Day Guide to Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan

Only have one day in Bishkek? Don’t worry! You can still see a lot of the city in 24 hours! From exploring the vibrant Osh Bazaar and savoring traditional Kyrgyz drinks to wandering through lush parks and visiting the fascinating State History Museum, Bishkek offers a delightful mix of culture, history, and cuisine. Indulge in…
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How to Get from Karakol to Bishkek (or Bishkek to Karakol) by Marshrutka/Bus 2026

Getting from Karakol to Bishkek, or vice versa, takes about 6 hours by road. The easiest and most affordable way to make the journey is by marshrutka (shared minibus) from the bus station. You could also take a taxi, which can cost anywhere from around 1,300 som for a seat in a shared car to…
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3 Day Ala Kul Pass Hike as a Non-Hiker and Self-Guided

Hiking Ala Kul in Kyrgyzstan was a transformative experience for me, despite my lack of hiking expertise. Initially skeptical about tackling one of the hardest hikes, I found myself captivated by the stunning mountain views and the sense of accomplishment that came with completing the trek. From the challenging ascent to Ala Kul Pass to…
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Ala Kul Hike Packing List: What to Bring in Summer When Staying in Yurts

Wondering what you should pack for the Ala Kul Hike in Kyrgyzstan? Look no further in here where I list the essentials you need for doing this hike in summer if you are staying in yurt camps based on my experience.
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How to Get from Almaty, Kazakhstan to Karakol, Kyrgyzstan by Bus (2026): Everything You Need to Know
Last Updated: August 2026 Planning to travel from Almaty, Kazakhstan, to Karakol, Kyrgyzstan? While most travelers make the journey through Bishkek, there is a direct bus from Almaty to Karakol that can save you both time and a lot of unnecessary backtracking. I chose to take the Almaty to Karakol bus because I wanted to hike Ala Kul…
