Alpine Lakes and Silk Road Skies

This route includes some longer road journeys, but the drives are broken up with worthwhile stops, local visits and scenery that changes often. If you enjoy overland travel and do not mind a few big travel days, the payoff is strong.

Accommodation is chosen to be comfortable and among the best practical options available on the route, but it may not always match Western hotel expectations. In some places, especially outside the major cities, amenities can be simpler than what the word Premium might suggest in Europe or the United States.

The yurt camp near Lake Issyk Kul is comfortable but basic. Yurts are sacred dwellings and do not have private bathrooms, so shared facilities are used. A single supplement is not available on Day 5 at the yurt camp.

You will need a reasonable level of fitness. The trip includes walking in cities and natural areas, plus border crossings where you must handle your own luggage because porters are not available.

Border crossings in this region can be unpredictable. Sometimes they are quick, sometimes they are crowded, and sometimes they simply take longer than expected. A flexible attitude will make the day much easier.

Visa information is provided by Sherpa, a trusted third-party. The “Add connection” feature only shows transit visa requirements and does not cover full entry visas. U.S. citizens traveling to Italy for stays under 90 days typically do not need a tourist visa. Additional service fees may apply if you choose to purchase a visa through Sherpa. Always check official sources before traveling.

Accommodation on this trip includes 7 nights in hotels and 1 night in a yurt Feature Stay. The day-by-day accommodation names are a guide and may change if preferred properties are not available, but similar standards will be used where possible.

Hotels are generally well located and comfortable, though local standards and facilities can vary. If the group arrives before standard check-in time, rooms may not be ready immediately. In that case, luggage can usually be stored while you explore, or shared day rooms may be available on some departures.

The yurt camp is intentionally simple and is included because it gives you a meaningful connection to Kyrgyz nomadic culture and the Lake Issyk Kul landscape. Expect shared bathroom facilities and fewer hotel-style conveniences for that night.

Joining point: Renion Park Hotel, Kunayeva 66 / Kunaev Street 66, Almaty 050000, Kazakhstan.

Phone: +7 727 313 1012

The hotel is in Almaty and is used as the starting point for the trip. A complimentary airport arrival transfer is included if you arrive on Day 1 or if you have booked pre-tour accommodation through EurotourClub.

Please provide your flight details no later than 14 days before departure so the transfer can be arranged. After you collect your luggage and clear customs at Almaty International Airport, go to the arrivals hall and look for your driver holding a EurotourClub sign with your name. Do not leave the airport building before meeting your driver. If you have trouble finding them, contact the local emergency number provided in your final documents.