Issyk-Kul Marathon Tour

Run the Silk Road— 2027

Issyk-Kul Marathon Tour
(Run the Silk Road)

Issyk-Kul Lake Marathon: Travel, Sport & Nature of Kyrgyzstan

This tour is more than just a trip. It’s a unique opportunity to combine participation in an international race with a journey through one of the most beautiful regions of Central Asia. Along the way, you will discover cities of the Great Silk Road, the crystal-clear waters of Lake Issyk-Kul, mountain gorges, and a rich cultural program.

You can take part in the marathon, half marathon, or one of the available distances (10 km run, 3 km run, 10 km Nordic walking, or a children’s race), all set against breathtaking mountain and lake scenery. You will explore the race course in advance, recover in a sauna and hot mineral springs, and then continue the journey with light trekking, lakeside relaxation, and sightseeing in Bishkek.

The tour is suitable both for runners and accompanying travelers — comfortable, well-paced, and without overload.

Why to choose this tour:

Official participation in the race
Accommodation on Lake Issyk-Kul
Well-organized logistics and professional support
A perfect balance of sport, relaxation, and culture

Want to be part of this event?
Contact us — we’ll share all the details, help with preparation, and secure your place in the tour.

Available dates

Pre-book 2027

Travel details

Level 2

Season spring

Begins Bishkek

Ends Bishkek

Airport in Аэропорт Манас (FRU)

Airport out Manas Airport (FRU)

Wildlife mountain goats, marmots, birds, predator birds, rodents, hares, snakes, wolves, foxes

Price: Price coming soon

Great for

I want one

What is included:

Transfer: Bishkek Airport - Issyk-Kul - Bishkek.
All other transfers.
Accommodation in a 3-star hotel in Bishkek, or a hotel or resort on Lake Issyk-Kul, in a double room.
Meals as per itinerary.
Professional guide.
Route introduction.
Sauna at the resort or hotel (1 visit).
Entrance tickets to attractions as per itinerary.

What is not included:

International flights.
Visa or visa support (if necessary).
Insurance (MANDATORY!).
Single occupancy supplement.
Personal expenses.
Alcoholic beverages.
Changes to the program.
Hot springs (average price - $4-5 per person).
Equipment rental.
Race registration.

Day

Early arrival in Bishkek – Lake Issyk-Kul via Burana Tower. Meeting at Manas International Airport and transfer to Lake Issyk-Kul with a stop at the ancient Burana Tower (about 306 km, ~5.5 hours). Burana Tower is a 12th-century minaret from the city of Balasagun, once a capital of the Karakhanid State and an important Silk Road trading center. We will explore archaeological ruins, visit a small museum, and see balbals — ancient Turkic stone statues. The route continues through the scenic Boom Gorge to Cholpon-Ata or nearby. Lunch en route. Check-in at a hotel or guesthouse, free time to rest. 

Meals: – / Lunch / Dinner

Day

Route inspection and excursions. After breakfast, we collect race starter packages and review the race course and surrounding area. Next, we visit the Open-Air Petroglyph Museum in Cholpon-Ata and the unique Rukh Ordo Cultural Center, which unites five world religions: Islam, Catholicism, Orthodoxy, Buddhism, and Judaism. Art and photo galleries are also located here, offering a deep cultural insight. Return to the hotel and preparation for race day. 

Meals: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner

Day

Race Day. After breakfast, transfer to the starting area. Warm-up and entry into the старт cluster — the main event begins! All finishers receive a personal welcome, a finisher medal, and take part in the award ceremony. After the race — sauna and relaxation. Overnight at the hotel or guesthouse. 

Meals: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner

Day

Lake Issyk-Kul and outdoor activities. A free day at Lake Issyk-Kul or an easy trek to Aral Gorge (4–5 hours). Optional swimming in crystal-clear water, sunbathing, visiting mineral hot springs, or simply relaxing in nature. Overnight at the hotel or resort. 

Meals: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner

Day

Return to Bishkek and city tour. Transfer back to Bishkek (about 250 km, ~4 hours). Check-in at the hotel and lunch. In the afternoon — a sightseeing tour of the capital: Ala-Too Square, the Manas Monument, green parks, and panoramic views of the snow-capped Kyrgyz Range. Time for walking and souvenir shopping. Free evening. 

Meals: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner

Day

Departure. Breakfast. Transfer to the airport and end of the program.

Got questions?

We thought you might. We've prepared some answers to our most commomly asked questions about this trip.

What to pack?

Download this helpful list of suggestions and recommendations for gear for this trip.

Gear list

Logistics

Get detailed information about how to get here, reservation policies, trip insurance and more.

Natalia Zhukova Trip Manager

Need more information? We promptly answer all Your questions!

Tour photo gallery

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Run the Silk Road— 2027