A Journey Through Time with Alexis Lopez
- 3,350$Price per person
- 11 daysTour duration
- May-Oct 2027Tour dates
- KyrgyzstanCountry
The mission of our ambassador, Alexis Lopez, is to take you beyond the ordinary boundaries of tourism, inviting you to a unique “Initiatory Adventure” travel experience in the land of the Kyrgyz nomads.
What you will experience:
Extensive horseback riding and the chance to forge a bond with your four-legged companion.
A warm, culturally rich welcome from nomadic families, with stays in traditional yurts.
A meeting with Aitbek, an authentic Kyrgyz eagle hunter.
A photography workshop led by Alexis Lopez.
A sublime, traditional Kyrgyz *banya* (sauna) set in the heart of nature.
Ceremonies around a campfire, accompanied by sincere, profound conversations with Alexis, Bakyt, and the rest of the group.
Time for free artistic expression—dedicated entirely to YOU.
The opportunity to witness an impressive *Kok Boru* (a traditional equestrian game).
Need to take a deep breath and get away from your daily routine?
Want to explore a new culture, close to nature and animals?
Looking to experience intense emotions that make you feel truly alive?
Perhaps you’re seeking answers to existential questions?
Or maybe you want to build the self-confidence to travel solo in the future?
You’ve come to the right place!
The promise of this trip
Throughout the year, our minds suffer under the weight of our daily lives: stress, pressure from those around us or from our professional environment, endless to-do lists, and barely a moment to catch our breath—habits that lead to low morale, insomnia, a loss of self-confidence, and profound exhaustion.
The concept behind this trip, created by Alexis Lopez, is one of a kind: it sits at the intersection of an initiatory journey and an adventure.
Why “halfway there”?
When we think of “initiatory journeys”—journeys of personal discovery and transformation—we often picture meditation, holding still for hours on end, or silent retreats in temples.
The experience offered by Alexis Lopez takes a different path: one of liberation through movement.
Take a horse—a creature of profound sensitivity, empathy, and intelligence—and lock it in a cage, demanding that it remain silent.
Would such an experience be restorative for the animal? Clearly not.
Now, imagine that this horse is you.
– Imagine being able to ride across vast meadows from sunrise to sunset, feeling truly free.
– Imagine having the space each evening, around a campfire, to speak your mind without fear of judgment—deepening your own reflections or simply connecting with others.
– Imagine having quiet moments to let your thoughts wander and unlock your creativity, in whatever form it may take.
– Imagine encountering challenging obstacles, only to find that, with the help of your companions, you are able to go further than you ever imagined possible.
This “Initiatory Adventure” is a vibrant, vivid experience—a chance to feel and share intense emotions within a close-knit group, living life with total freedom and depth. It is a unique, beautiful, and enchanting journey—an invitation to immerse yourself in the poetry of a culture that lives in harmony with nature.
The promise of this trip is an adventure that nourishes both the heart and the mind.
A Journey on Horseback
The highlight of this trip is undoubtedly the horseback riding—venturing off the beaten path, into areas where no motorized vehicle can go.
In the heart of Kyrgyzstan’s vast steppes, the horse is more than just an animal; it is a true life companion, representing an enduring, centuries-old bond between humanity and nature.
Here, the nomads still travel proudly on horseback!
You will be able to fully experience the sense of freedom and power that comes from riding across the Kyrgyz steppes, with the wind brushing against your face as you gallop.
At other, quieter moments—whether moving at a walk or leading your four-legged companion on foot—you may find a profound sense of calm and serenity.
The rhythmic motion of the horse has a soothing effect on the rider, fostering introspection and meditative movement. The horse proves to be an ideal partner for an adventure that is as exhilarating as it is introspective!
Physical Requirements
A reasonable level of physical fitness is essential. This trip combines activities such as hiking, horseback riding, and exploring on foot across varied terrain. You should have enough endurance to walk for several hours a day and spend at least half a day in the saddle.
If you have any doubts, please don’t hesitate to contact our team—we are here to answer your questions!
Required Riding Experience
You do not need to be an expert rider to take part in this trip!
However, we do ask that beginners complete at least 3 hours of riding lessons at an equestrian center before departure. This ensures you are familiar with the different gaits (walk, trot, and canter), allowing you to set off with complete peace of mind. If a group consists of both beginners and advanced riders, we reserve the option to split the group in two for certain sections of the ride—allowing everyone to enjoy the horses at their own pace!
This trip is for you if…
You feel the need to reconnect with yourself, explore your emotions, or reflect on your future. Existential questions and concerns regarding what lies ahead—such as a career change, family issues, major life choices, the end of your studies, or burnout—may find answers during this journey of self-discovery. Alexis will lead workshops designed to help you tap into the inner resources needed to address these questions.
You wish to learn Alexis’s photographic approach—covering both digital and film—and take advantage of dedicated creative time to let your imagination flourish in an environment that is as inspiring as it is peaceful.
You are looking for an immersive experience that prioritizes authenticity and genuine interaction with real-life nomads.
You value a friendly, supportive group atmosphere—one that encourages meaningful conversation and the formation of lasting bonds.
You enjoy the company of animals, especially horses, and are prepared to be patient and attentive as you get to know them and travel alongside them.
You are seeking an adventure that goes beyond typical tourism—a transformative experience you will remember for the rest of your life.
You aspire to travel solo in the future but don’t yet feel ready to do so. By the end of this trip, Alexis will have taught you all the ins and outs of undertaking such an adventure, empowering you to set off on your own next time.
This trip is not for you if…
You are an expert rider looking for a journey focused entirely on sport horses and equine performance.
We view horses as travel partners; at times we will ride them, and at other times we will walk alongside them. You will be free to gallop to your heart’s content, but this trip is not focused on equestrian performance or sporting goals.
You are looking for a survival training course.
While Alexis will share some tips for living in the wild—such as how to build a fire or construct a shelter—this is not the primary focus of the trip.
You are seeking a luxury getaway with high-end accommodations.
Although our accommodations have been carefully selected for their authenticity, they may not meet the luxury standards some travelers expect. Please note that, in keeping with Kyrgyz tradition, some yurts will be shared with other members of the group and/or with Alexis and Bakyt.
Your Ambassador
Alexis Lopez
Born with a thirst for adventure, Alexis Lopez embodies the spirit of a true traveler and seasoned explorer.
His unconventional path is defined by an overflowing passion for photography, which has led him to discover the world through a humanistic lens—from humanitarian missions and conflict zones to wilderness expeditions, encounters with remote nomadic peoples, and profound, life-changing journeys. He is no stranger to the world of expeditions.
Alexis Lopez fell in love with Kyrgyzstan following a transformative journey he undertook himself after experiencing burnout.
Today, he continues to inspire and captivate others with his authentic perspective on travel, sharing compelling stories of people from across the globe—whether through his social media, his films, or the trips he organizes in his role as an ambassador.
Your Kyrgyz guide
Bakyt Moldonaliev
The son of a Kyrgyz nomad and an expert on Kyrgyzstan with over 20 years of experience, Bakyt is an exceptional guide, ready to reveal the secrets and beauty of his native land.
Hailing from the Talas Region—the smallest in Kyrgyzstan—Bakyt grew up amidst the majestic landscapes of the country’s northwest.
After studying French at the National University in Bishkek—where he developed a passion for literature (with a particular fondness for the works of Alexandre Dumas, Stendhal, and Honoré de Balzac)—Bakyt set out to traverse the Kyrgyz landscape, immersing himself in the historical details that have shaped this land of adventure.
Bakyt and Alexis are friends and partners in adventure across Kyrgyzstan.
Practical Information
Regardless of your arrival time or date, a member of our team will meet you at the airport to ensure a smooth arrival.
You can count on us!InsuranceInsurance is not included in trips organized by CentralAsia.
If you would like to purchase insurance, we recommend contacting Chapka Assurance.
Entry/Exit Formalities
French citizens are exempt from visa requirements for short-term tourist or business stays of up to 60 calendar days. Consequently, French citizens may stay in Kyrgyzstan without a visa for up to 60 calendar days per visit. There is no limit on the number of visits.
In short, if you are traveling only for the duration of the proposed trip, you do not need a visa.
However, please ensure that your passport is valid for at least another 6 months from the date of your arrival in Kyrgyzstan.
Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Bishkek, the capital of Kyrgyzstan
Arrival in Bishkek, where Bakyt and Alexis will meet you at the airport.
A short transfer and check-in at the guesthouse.
Depending on your arrival time, enjoy a welcome meal with our team before heading out to explore Osh Bazaar. Osh Bazaar is a vibrant place full of bright colours, enticing aromas and lively activity. Here, locals bargain over fresh fruit and a wide variety of spices. Its cheerful atmosphere, where traditions, flavours and cultures come together, makes it a unique place for everyone to experience. You will also have the opportunity to do some last-minute shopping before the big adventure begins.
Driving time: 30 minutes
Altitude: 600–800 metres
Meals: Lunch/dinner included
Accommodation: Guesthouse (private room available)
Day 2: From Bishkek to Balykchy–Karakol
Early in the morning, we will board an authentic Kyrgyz train to travel from Bishkek to Balykchy.
We will then take a route that winds through the mountains toward Issyk-Kul—the second-largest alpine lake in the world.
By the end of the day, we will arrive in Karakol, a town regarded as the regional hub for mountaineers. It serves as the starting point for all major expeditions toward the high peaks of the Tian Shan range.
We will spend the evening in Karakol gathered around a bonfire—thrills guaranteed.
We will write down our intentions or personal questions (anonymously; only you will have access to what you write) in the group’s travel journal. This marks the beginning of our journey of self-discovery—a moment for kind, warm, and open-hearted sharing.
Driving time: 7 hours
Driving distance: 400 km
Altitude: 1,690 to 1,850 meters
Breakfast/lunch/dinner: included
Accommodation: guesthouse (private rooms available)
Day 3: Horseback trek from Karakol to Yrdyk
At the start of the day, we will get to know our horses; you will choose the one you feel most connected to, and we will begin our trek from Karakol, heading toward the Chelpek Valley.
Once there, we will visit the West Irdyk Lake. Afterward, we will cross the mountain pass that leads us into the Irdyk Valley.
Along the way, we will enjoy an outdoor lunch before continuing our journey.
In the evening, we will have dinner under the stars around a campfire, before spending the night in tents.
Optional: either in the evening or early the following morning, you may choose to hike to the East Irdyk Lake.
20 km, 6 to 7 hours of horseback riding
Altitude: 2,550 meters
Breakfast/lunch/dinner: included
Accommodation: in tents
Day 4: Horseback trek from Yrdyk to the Kok-Jaiyk Valley of Flowers, via the Jeti-Oguz Valley
Note: From Day 4 onwards, we will be traveling through the lands of the Kyrgyz nomads. We may occasionally stop, unannounced, to visit a local family and share tea or a meal.
After breakfast, we will continue our trek, descending through the meadows as we leave the Irdyk Valley behind and head toward Jeti-Oguz.
We will enjoy an outdoor picnic before continuing our journey to Kek-Jaiyk East—a valley located near the Jeti-Oguz gorges in the Issyk-Kul region, at an altitude of 2,800 meters. This truly stunning valley features spruce trees framed by mountains composed of striking red rock.
Amidst these magnificent landscapes, Alexis will lead a two-hour photography workshop. Throughout the rest of the trip, you are welcome to reach out to him whenever you like for further photography tips and advice.
24 km, 7 hours of horseback riding
Altitude: 2,385 meters
Breakfast/lunch/dinner: included
Accommodation: in tents
Day 5: Horseback trek from Kok-Jaiyk to Chon Kyzyl Suu
In the morning, we will set off toward the Chon Kyzyl Suu Valley, crossing the Siuttu Bulak pastures, where we will encounter Kyrgyz shepherds living in their nomadic yurts. If time permits, we will stop to share a cup of tea with them.
We will cross several wooden bridges before stopping for a picnic, surrounded by free-roaming horses—a moment of tranquility in the heart of the wilderness.
We will then continue our journey—at a gallop—arriving in the magnificent Chon Kyzyl Suu Valley.
At sunset, there will be time for independent artistic activities:
- Photography
- Drawing
- Writing
- Other… (if you have a specific request, please let us know before departure)
25 km, 7 hours of horseback riding
Altitude: 2,167 meters
Breakfast/lunch/dinner: included
Accommodation: Shared yurt.
Day 6: Horseback riding from Chon Kyzyl Suu to the old Weather Station
In the morning, we will witness one of the most spectacular ancestral nomadic equestrian games: Kok-Boru.
Then, we will travel through a wooded area along the banks of the turbulent Chon-Kyzyl-Suu River.
After lunch, we will arrive at an old weather station in the Chon-Kyzyl-Suu Valley, built in 1948 by Germans who were held as prisoners in Kyrgyzstan. All the construction materials were transported there by camel.
In the evening, we will discover a local tradition: the “banya”—a very hot sauna-style bath, with the option for the brave to take a quick dip in the (cold) river!
14 km, 3 hours of horseback riding
Altitude: 2,570 meters
Breakfast/lunch/dinner: included
Accommodation: at the weather station
Day 7: Weather Station – Kara Batkak Glacier
Today is all about adventure!
In the morning, we will cross the Chon Kyzyl Suu River on horseback, heading toward the Karabatkak Glacier, perched at an altitude of 3,200 meters.
Along the way, we’ll take a few minutes to observe some wild marmots.
We will then stop to eat at the foot of the glacier, in a small cabin by a little lake.
Those who are feeling more energetic can head toward the summit of the glacier, while others can enjoy the scenery and some time for quiet reflection.
Before nightfall, we will return to the weather station for dinner.
17 km, 5 to 6 hours of horseback riding
Altitude: 2,570 meters
Breakfast/lunch/dinner: included
Accommodation: At the weather station
Day 8: Weather Station – Tura-Suu
In the morning, we head to the Jyluu-Suu hot springs on horseback, where we will bid farewell to our four-legged companions.
We will then set off by road, stopping at Skazka Canyon to walk through its magnificent, contrasting landscapes.
Following this walk, we will enjoy a picnic on the shores of Lake Issyk-Kul—one of the largest lakes in Central Asia and among the twenty oldest lakes in the world.
There will be time to go for a swim and enjoy the pure, slightly saline waters of the lake, which are remarkably transparent.
At the end of the day, we will arrive at the Tura Suu mountain pasture, where we will meet Aitbek—a *berkutchi* and one of the last practitioners of the traditional Kyrgyz art of hunting with a golden eagle.
Driving time: 3–4 hours
Driving distance: 130 km
Altitude: 2,007 meters
14 km, 2 hours on horseback
Altitude: 2,550 meters
Breakfast/lunch/dinner: included
Accommodation: Shared yurt
Day 9: A day in Tura-Suu
In the morning, after an excellent traditional breakfast, Aitbek will show us how he trains his golden eagle for hunting during the summer.
In the afternoon, you may choose from the following options:
- Artistic activities and time for conversation
- A horseback ride with Bakyt and Aitbek
- or a free afternoon
In the evening, we will dine with Aitbek’s family and enjoy a folk music performance around a final bonfire, where Alexis will wrap up the travel and intention journal—and have a surprise in store for you.
Accommodation: Shared yurt
Day 10: Tura-Suu - Bishkek
After long farewells to Aitbek’s family, we will set off toward Bishkek, the capital.
Along the way, we will visit Kourmanbek and Nazira, a family of artisans who craft yurts. Kourmanbek will show us his open-air workshop where the wooden components of the yurts are made, while Nazira will demonstrate how she creates the felt elements and traditional embroidery that adorn the yurts. This will be a great opportunity to pick up some authentic souvenirs before your return journey.
We will then continue our drive through the Tian Shan mountains before arriving in Bishkek, where we will enjoy dinner together.
Driving time: 4 hours 30 minutes
Driving distance: 275 km
Altitude: 600 meters
Breakfast/lunch/dinner: included
Accommodation: guesthouse (private room available)
Day 11: Departure any time
Transfer to the airport, timed to match your flight schedule.
Head home with a head full of memories, or continue your journey through Kyrgyzstan on your own.
Drive time: 30 min.
Distance: 35 km
Breakfast included
Please note: This itinerary may be subject to changes if our team of experts deems it necessary (due to blocked roads, weather conditions, etc.).
Included
✓ Airport transfers
✓ All meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner)
✓ All accommodations
✓ Train tickets
✓ Ground transportation
✓ Horse rental
✓ All activities mentioned in the itinerary
✓ Guidance from Alexis Lopez and workshops
✓ Guidance from Bakyt Moldonaliev
✓ Support from 3 professional grooms
Not included
- Flight tickets
- Food, drinks, and alcohol (except where otherwise noted)
- Travel insurance
- Extra activities
- Gratuities
Cancellation policy
- If the trip is not confirmed (because there are fewer than 4 registered participants) and you cancel, you will receive a full refund.
- If the trip is confirmed (there are more than 4 registered participants) and you cancel, you will be refunded 75% of the total trip price.
- From 60 days before the trip, you will not be entitled to any refund.