Son-Kul Lake
Kyrgyzstan’s second largest lake is located at a cool 3,000m altitude above sea level. This is a world away from the beach resorts of Lake Issyk-Kul. The lake is surrounded by sweeping wide-open plains, and distantly ringed by snow-topped peaks. During the summer months nomads use the plains as their summer pastures, and there are also a limited number of yurt camps which accommodate tourists. Due to the altitude these camps are only open between the months of June to September. This is an excellent place to experience a taste of the real nomadic way of life. Spend the day hiking or horseback riding alongside the lake, before enjoying a hearty dinner and stargazing in the clear night sky before settling down in your cosy yurt for the night.