Boating & Boat Rentals in Kyrgyzstan

Amidst Kyrgyzstan’s never-ending mountains, there are thousands of lakes and rivers the spot and weave through the country, making Kyrgyzstan the most vibrant of all the Central Asian countries.  One can’t visit Kyrgyzstan without visiting at least some of its alpine lakes which can range from either remote and tiny to large tourist attractions.  Some of these lakes offer excellent boating opportunities to travelers that shouldn’t be missed during their tour of Kyrgyzstan.

WHAT KINDS OF BOAT RIDES ARE WE TALKING ABOUT?

During a riverwalk boat tour, boating in Kyrgyzstan will usually involve the rental of anything ranging from a rowboat to a motorboat to a tugboat to a small yacht.  Rides can last anywhere from one to two hours.  There are no limitations on the age of passengers.

WHEN IS BOATING SEASON IN KYRGYZSTAN?

Boat rentals are available from April to October.

WHERE IS BOATING OFFERED IN KYRGYZSTAN?

The most popular lake for boat rides in Kyrgyzstan is Lake Issyk Kul, the country’s largest lake.  Lake Issyk Kul has lots of boating options and provides an expansive body of water to enjoy them on.  Other popular boating destinations in Kyrgyzstan include Lake Song Kul, Sary Chelek, and Kel Suu. 

Lake Song Kul and Sary Chelek are fairly isolated lakes, but ones that still see a decent number of visitors in the warmer months.  Both are popular boating destinations in Kyrgyzstan due to their unmatched beauty. Lake Song Kul is located amongst high mountain pasturelands that are commonly used by nomadic herders in the summer.  Lake Sary Chelek is one of seven lakes in a biosphere reserve, so the environment around the lake is pristine!

Lake Kel Suu is an extremely remote lake close to the Chinese border not visited by many.  However, its mysterious, untouched atmosphere makes it an excellent boating destination; its many nooks, crannies, and caves that can only be fully explored by boat.