About Us

About Kyrgyz Tourism

A local tour operator from Bishkek, showing travellers the real Kyrgyzstan since 2016.

Our story

Kyrgyz Tourism was founded by Taalai Takaev, who grew up in Semizbel, a village in the Kochkor district on the way to Song-Kul lake. Before tourism he was a maths olympiad competitor; in 2016 he turned his love for his home mountains into guiding.

He wanted to create the sort of trips travellers could not find anywhere else: real nomadic life instead of a view from the bus window.

We believe in immersive, active tours that give you real access to local people, culture and incredible landscapes: nights in yurts by high-mountain lakes, horseback trails through the Tian Shan, eagle hunters, bazaars and Silk Road history.

Our team lives in Kyrgyzstan. We plan every route ourselves, work with trusted local drivers, guides and host families, and stay in touch with you from the first message until you fly home.

Taalai Takaev, founder of Kyrgyz Tourism, at a yurt camp in the Kyrgyz mountains

A note from the founder

Welcome to my Kyrgyzstan

I grew up in Semizbel, a small village in the Kochkor district, at the foot of the mountains that lead up to Song-Kul lake. Summers meant horses, herds on the high pastures and long evenings in the yurt: the same life our guests come to experience today.

Before tourism, my world was numbers. As a student I competed in maths olympiads, and I still plan every trip the same way: carefully, step by step, with nothing left to chance. On the road you can simply enjoy the mountains.

I started guiding in 2016 because I wanted travellers to see Kyrgyzstan the way we live it, not only from a bus window. When you travel with us, you travel with locals who know these valleys by heart. I look forward to welcoming you to my Kyrgyzstan.

Taalai Takaev Founder & lead guide

Why choose us

What you can count on

Tailored experiences

Every tour is private. We shape the route, pace and accommodation around what you enjoy.

Expert local guides

English-speaking guides and experienced drivers who grew up here and know every road and story.

Fair, clear prices

You book directly with the local operator: no middlemen, no hidden fees, prices per person listed upfront.

Personal attention

One contact person from planning to the last day, reachable on WhatsApp throughout your trip.

Not sure where to start?

Tell us your dates and interests. We will design a route around you and send a free proposal within 24 hours.

WhatsApp us

Plan your custom trip

Tell us what you have in mind and we will send you a tailored tour proposal, usually within 24 hours.

No payment now. We reply within 24 hours.