Photography Expedition 5-Day in Kyrgyzstan

Our Photography journey starts early from Bishkek. As we drive towards Son-Kol Lake, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to photograph the picturesque Kyrgyz countryside and the life of its people.

A stop at Kochkor village will allow you to explore a local handicrafts market. It’s a perfect chance to take vibrant photos of traditional Kyrgyz crafts and meet the artisans. Lunch will be in a local family.

We arrive at Son-Kol Lake by early afternoon and settle into our traditional yurt camp.

We’ll venture out for a photography session focused on the breathtaking landscapes and the nomadic lifestyles of the herders around the lake.

The day ends with a sunset photography session, capturing the serene beauty of the lake at dusk.

After dinner, join us for a night photography workshop under the stars, if weather and night light will allow.

Overnight in a yurt camp.

Start the day with a sunrise photography session over Son-Kol Lake, capturing the early morning light.

After breakfast, we start our route to Ak-Talaa Valley, via Moldo-Ashuu Pass (3346m a.s.l.) to the town of Baetov, where we will stop for lunch.

In the afternoon, we start climbing to MELS Pass (3400m) and capture the beauties of the Tien-Shan mountains. We’ll stop for a coffee break with a view of the rocky mountains.

We will arrive in the evening at our yurt camp in Tash-Rabat.

Tash-Rabat is a historic stone caravanserai located in the remote mountains of the Kyrgyz Republic. Dating back to the 15th century, it served as a vital stopover for Silk Road travelers, providing shelter and protection in the harsh, mountainous terrain. Today, it stands as a well-preserved testament to the region’s rich cultural and trade history.

Dinner and overnight in Tash-Rabat yurt camp.

Morning and post breakfast, we depart for the remote Kel-Suu Lake, traversing rugged terrain that offers stunning photographic opportunities.

Upon arrival at Kel-Suu, check into another yurt camp. This lake, set against dramatic cliffs, provides perfect scenes for landscape photography.

Spend the afternoon on a photo trek along the yurt camp, exploring the unique geological formations of a mountain and a river.

Capture the peaceful evening light during a sunset shoot by the camp.

Our day concludes with a hearty dinner and an opportunity to discuss photography techniques or review the day’s captures.

Overnight in a yurt camp.

Early in the morning trek to Kel-Suu Lake (7km one way) or can take horses. Explore the area and engage in a photo trek along the shores of Kel-Suu. This remote lake offers unique geological formations perfect for adventurous landscape photography.

After breakfast, we pack up and head towards Naryn, photographing scenic views and local nomadic life en route.

Arrive and check into a hotel in Naryn. Later, take a guided tour around the town focusing on its architecture and people – a great chance for some street photography.

The evening is yours to relax or continue exploring Naryn independently.

Dinner tonight might include a special guest from the local photography scene to inspire your work.

Overnight in a hotel.

For early risers, there’s a chance to capture Naryn at dawn.

After breakfast, we head back to Bishkek, making several stops along the way to photograph the varied landscapes and everyday life outside Naryn.

Enjoy a picturesque lunch on the road as we continue our journey back to the capital city, with stops for photography.

We reach Bishkek and check into your hotel.

The farewell dinner is an opportunity to share your best shots and stories from the trip, and perhaps make plans for future adventures together!

Overnight in a hotel.