trip in Kyrgyzstan, offering the chance to truly
explore the country by collaborating with the locals
toward a shared goal.
From late April to early June, Kyrgyz shepherds leave their villages for the Jailoo (pasture), with their families, livestock, yurt, furniture and basically everything. It's a festive time for families and villages come back to life after the cold winter months. This year, we propose that you join this event and participate in moving to the Jailoo with a family from At-Bashy village to their Jailoo in Kok Kyia, by Kel Suu Lake. Programme (most likely to be modified due to the 'shepherd factor'): Day 1: Bishkek - At Bashy, We leave Bishkek by public transport to reach the village of At-Bashy, in the Naryn region. Once there, we meet Meder and his family at their home, where we stay for the night. Day 2 - Day 5: We pack the last of our gear, saddle the horses and leave the village with the cattle. During these 5 days, we ride about 120 km and pass through wonderful landscapes, pine forests, high mountain passes and desolate steppes, together with the livestock consisting of about 200 sheep, horses and cows. Every night we set up camp, light a fire, have dinner and sleep in tents. At the end of the transhumance, we arrive at Jailoo by Kel Suu Lake. Day 6: Today you can rest or walk to Kel Suu Lake (2hrs), one of the most impressive landscapes you will see in Kyrgyzstan. Day 7: Return to At Bashi village by truck (limited comfort). Overnight in At Bashy village. Day 8: Return to Bishkek by public transport after this unique and incredible journey in the heart of the nomadic Kyrgyz culture.
