Situated on the southern shores of Issyk-Kul Lake, Bokonbayevo is one of the best places to visit in Kyrgyzstan.
Known for its stunning natural scenery, rich cultural experiences, and warm hospitality, Bokonbayevo offers plenty of unique activities and attractions. This small lakeside village is a perfect destination for both adventure travelers and cultural travelers, with options that range from witnessing the art of eagle hunting to hiking panoramic viewpoints.
Whether you’re looking to get to know the Kyrgyz culture and traditions better or have unique adventures, you’ll find plenty of things to do in Bokonbayevo to make your visit memorable.
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Top Things to See & Do in Bokobayevo, Kyrgyzstan:
Witness an Eagle Hunting Demonstration
Eagle hunting is one of the oldest traditions in Kyrgyzstan, and Bokonbayevo is one of the few places where you can still witness this incredible practice up close. Local hunters, known as berkutchi, train golden eagles from a young age to hunt for prey, an art passed down through generations.
During an eagle hunting demonstration, you’ll get an up-close look at these magnificent birds, learn about their training process, and watch as they soar to hunt in the wild. You will even have the opportunity to hold them!
Eagle hunting demonstrations in Kyrgyzstan are typically available throughout the year, but the hunting season starts in October and ends in February. During the rest of the year, you can still see the eagles and go for a demonstration, but this is not a period during which they fly to kill.
The tradition of eagle hunting, while unique to Kyrgyzstan, is also practiced in parts of Mongolia and Kazakhstan, but each culture has its own approach and ceremonies.
Visit Skazka (Fairytale) Canyon
Just a short drive from Bokonbayevo, you can visit the fairy Skazka Canyon, a captivating landscape of colorful rock formations, that eroded over time into bizarre shapes and structures. Named “Fairytale Canyon” for its dreamlike appearance, the canyon is one of the most popular attractions in Kyrgyzstan attracting both tourists and locals alike.
When visiting, you can explore the area freely, hiking up and down the sandstone ridges and admiring the breathtaking views over Issyk-Kul Lake. Since Skazka Canyon is close to Bokonbayevo, it’s an ideal spot to visit for half a day, especially in the morning or late afternoon when the light brings out the colors of the rock.
Hike to the Shatyly Viewpoint
The scenic hike to the Shatyly viewpoint starting just outside of the village should be at the top of everyone’s list of things to do in Bokonbayevo. This easy 30 to 40-minute hike winds through open meadows and colorful wildflowers that are a pleasure to walk around on their own. At the top, however, you will be rewarded with panoramic views encompassing the beauty of the Issyk-Kul region. In front, you will see Issyk-Kul Lake, and in all other directions, you will be treated to stunning mountain views – what a dream view really!
If you don’t have a car, your only option to get there is by hiring a taxi. Taxis are readily available in the town center, or you can arrange your trip through the guesthouses in the village. You can also arrange your trip with the help of CBT Bokonbayevo, which typically pairs travelers so they can share the cost of the taxi.
Swim in Issyk-Kul Lake
Located at an altitude of 1, 607 meters, Issyk-Kul is Kyrgyzstan’s largest lake and the world’s second-largest mountain lake. No trip to Kyrgyzstan is complete without a visit to the shores of Issyk-Kul, where you can explore its beautiful beaches, engage in various water sports, and enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.
While the northern shores are more popular and bustling with activity, the beaches around Bokonbayevo are quieter and more relaxed compared to the busier northern shores.
The name of the lake can be translated into “warm lake” and was given to it because the lake never freezes in winter. The lake’s warm mineral-rich waters, surrounding sandy beaches, and mountain backdrop make it a great place for relaxation and water activities.
Stay in a Yurt or Guest House
A visit to Bokonbayevo is incomplete without experiencing the traditional Kyrgyz lifestyle by staying in a yurt camp or a local guest house. Many guesthouses and yurts around Bokonbayevo are run by local families, allowing travelers to experience the hospitality and lifestyle of the Kyrgyz people. Spending a night in a yurt gives you a unique experience, complete with traditional meals, storytelling, and sometimes even music performances.
Traditional yurts are constructed using a wooden frame (usually willow or poplar) and covered with thick felt made from sheep’s wool, which provides insulation against the extreme temperatures of the mountains. The yurt’s circular shape is symbolic, representing the unity of the family and the endless sky.
Guest houses, on the other hand, offer more modern amenities while still providing a glimpse into the local culture. They often include comfortable rooms, communal areas, and the opportunity to enjoy home-cooked meals featuring traditional Kyrgyz dishes. Staying in a guest house can be a great way to connect with other travelers, share experiences, and also engage in a conversation with the house’s owners.
In Bokonbayevo, we opted for a guest house and it was one of the most welcoming stays in a guest house ever. We had some amazing local dishes and the family that ran the house were some of the nicest and friendliest people we came across while traveling around Kyrgyzstan. Talking to them and exchanging stories was a pleasure.
We stayed at Guest House Teskei.
See the Great Patriotic War (World War II) Monument
The World War Monument in Bokonbayevo is a significant landmark honoring the contributions and sacrifices of Kyrgyz soldiers during World War II. During the war, over 360,000 Kyrgyz citizens were mobilized, and many were sent to serve in military factories. This monument was built to serve as a powerful reminder of the bravery of the Kyrgyz people, who fought valiantly and died during the war.
Get to Know the Friendly Locals
One of the highlights of visiting Bokonbayevo is interacting with the locals, who are very warm, friendly, and hospitable. By talking to them, you may have the chance to learn about traditional Kyrgyz customs, hear stories from village elders, or hear and answer some funny questions from the local kids.
The people of Bokonbayevo are proud of their culture and heritage, and many are eager to share it with visitors. Don’t be afraid to strike up a conversation or participate in local events to get a true sense of Kyrgyz life.
P.S. Everyone in Kyrgyzstan speaks both Kyrgyz and Russian, but English is not as widely spoken especially in small villages such as Bokonbayevo. It would be useful and locals will appreciate it if you learn some words and phrases in either language.
Visit the Village Markets
Bokonbayevo’s markets provide an excellent opportunity to dive into local flavors and aromas. Here, you can find fresh produce, local treats, traditional garments, and even artisanal souvenirs. The village market is a vibrant space where you can observe Kyrgyzstan’s rural lifestyle and sample unique foods like kumis (fermented mare’s milk).
More Things to Do in Bokonbayevo
- Try horseback riding around Issyk-Kul Lake
- Explore the nearby Tamga Gorge
- Learn to make traditional Kyrgyz felt handicrafts
- Soak into Kajdi Sai hot springs, 15 minutes away from Bokonbayevo
- Go on a day trip from Bokonbayevo to Barskoon Waterfall
- Attend the “Birds of Pray” festival if you’re visiting Bokonbayevo in August
Final Thoughts…
With so much to see and do in Bokonbayevo, no one should skip including this charming little village on their Kyrgyzstan itinerary. From eagle hunting demonstrations to swimming in Issyk-Kul Lake, each activity and each experience provide a deeper understanding of Kyrgyz culture and a greater appreciation of this beautiful region.
To get a better idea of what to expect from Kyrgyzstan and where else you could go, make sure to check out the links I have included throughout the article, and don’t miss also checking out my guide of things to know before visiting Kyrgyzstan, my list of suggestions for things to do in Bishkek, and my guide to visiting Ala Archa National Park from Bishkek.
I hope that this article gives you a good overview of all the best things to do in Bokonbayevo, Kyrgyzstan. If you have any additional questions or comments, please let me know in the comment section below, and don’t hesitate to contact me.
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Thank you for reading,
Bilyana
