Central Asia stretches from the Caspian Sea in the west, bordered by countries in the east, north and south by China, Mongolia, Russia and Iran, respectively. 3000 years ago, nomads from these different regions have travelled far and wide to find pasture to keep their herds alive. This has forced them to create portable dwellings that can easily be packed and carried on the backs of animals as well as keep them warm even during the winter season. These portable dwellings are called yurts (ger in Mongolian). Yurts have been an increasingly popular accommodation for Westerners and tourists who want to experience the authentic nomadic life. Tourism has made a great deal of a difference when stories of nomad living in yurts have spread all over the globe. Take a look at this well-curated list of the top yurts in Kyrgyzstan, where you can stay when you visit.
1. Original Kyrgyz yurt (from USD 23)
With an amazing view of the lake with a seemingly endless horizon, this yurt camp has the perfect location for tourists and locals planning to go on a weekend getaway. A spacious and inviting space, this family-owned yurt camp comes with all the comforts possible within a remote location amid nature. With free private parking, the camp, located in Bagysh, is perfect if you’re planning to rent a car while on vacation.
Holiday in Yurt Camp ALMALUUTong, Ysyk Kol Province, KyrgyzstanTop guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
the yurts themselves are warm and very comfortablethe yurts are extremely spacious and comfortable all including coal burners to keep you warmthe yurts are extremely spacious and comfortable all including coal burners to keep you warmCleanliness:
the village is clean safe quite and tucked awaythe place is very clean the host is very helpful and it is in a good locationHost:
she was very helpful and answered our questions quicklyeveryone is so hospitable and kindthe yurt was comfortable and eugen jyldyz and everybody was very hospitablepeople are very kind and the food déliciousstaff - urmut especially - are very friendlyRead more reviewsLocation:
the location is very good just a short walk from the lakethis cute camp is pretty nice and has the idyllic location for relaxing and calm downoverall an excellent location that is near so many contrasting and nd amazing landscapepretty interesting place if you have a dream living in a yurttruly a great place to stay
2. Artsy tent by the sea (from USD 14)
For an authentic yurt experience plus modern showers and flush toilets, Yurt Camp Beltam is a little quaint camp located near the seaside. Within the spacious camp is a small “bar” where food and drinks are sold. The owners make sure to serve breakfast in the morning and provide blankets in the evening. Enjoy waking up to a great sunrise and go hiking. When night time comes, you can watch thousand of stars in the night sky.
Yurt Camp Beltam (Seaside)Issyk-Kul Region, KyrgyzstanTop guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
there are showers toilets and possibility to charge your phone store valuables at the center of the campHost:
the workers were very friendly though not everyone spoke englishgreat host family who love to look after youwe loved bel tam the staff is so nice and helpfulbreakfast and dinner is made by the host is a huge plusRead more reviewsLocation:
great location away from the noisebeautiful location as wella quiet place that has potential but very good for meeting fellows travellersvery nice camp close to the lake with a beautiful scenery very nice food and very hospitable hosta beautiful camp just 3 minutes walk to issyk kul lake
3. Cozy retreat with a view of the mountains (from USD 23)
For its sumptuous meals, well-managed camp and comfortable experience, This holiday yurt camp makes it to the list. Located on the shores of a mountain lake, enjoy the sight of the mountains as you traverse on horse-back or on foot. Not only horses but also an abundance of camels and sheep are seen in the area. Find the authentic nomad experience you’re looking for at this yurt camp.
Holidayin Yurt Camp bu Issik-KylTong, Ysyk Kol Province, KyrgyzstanTop guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
the beds were extremely comfortable and the inside was warm even in cold temperaturesthey are very comfortable and have lots of spaceCleanliness:
after a very warm welcome we went to our yurt which was cosy and cleanHost:
the host family made every effort they could to help usthe staff was amazing and tended to every need (they speak many languages)the host жылдыза is organized and friendlyeugen and his staff are very welcoming and will help you with your queriesgreat place very friendly host very helpful in suggesting good trekking placesRead more reviewsLocation:
this is a beautiful yurt camp set in a spectacular locationi will definitely be returning to this serene placeamazing place we spend an unforgettable few days there
4. Nomadic yurt with outdoor stone pool (from USD 43)
A plethora of outdoor experiences awaits you at Yurt at Bel-Zhan lodge. You can rent kayaks, bikes and horses or simply drive your way down the lake or hot springs. You may also choose to enjoy an outdoor pool experience at the campsite for a lovely afternoon! A wooden bar and kitchen with tables are there if you want to lounge around and enjoy the beautiful sight of nature in every turn.
Yurt at Bel-Zhan lodgeGrigorievka, Ysyk Kol Province, KyrgyzstanTop guest reviews
Host:
everything worked out perfect with jacobiene - very nice property with cool and helpful peopleRead more reviewsLocation:
good food super hospitality and a location were you can still find a beautiful beach just for yourself
5. Serene yurt camp in Tosor (from USD 15)
Don’t miss the sunset at Yurt Camp Tosor Tonya. With 14 yurts and 4 rooms, you’ll enjoy your own private time in the yurts and meeting other tourists outside. outdoor activities include hiking up the mountains or biking down the lake. Whatever it is you choose to do, hanging at this camp is one of the best choices you’ll ever make. The owners cook for you upon arrival, provide layers of blankets for when winter comes early, and speak good English so you don’t have to worry about communication in a foreign country.
Yurt Camp Tosor TonyaTosor, Issyk-Kul Region, KyrgyzstanTop guest reviews
Read more reviewsHost:
the owners are very friendly the facilities are clean and the food is good
6. Authentic nomadic yurt camp (from USD 15)
Located in Sary Tal jailoo in At-Bashy District, you’ll find an authentic yurt camp built by a nomad family that has been raising cows, sheep and horses for a living. Unlike bigger campsites with numerous yurts built for attracting more tourists, enjoy a more private and intimate experience at this accommodation. Like other yurt camps, the way to reaching the scenic views is by means of hiking and horseback riding. Horseback riding costs USD 15 while a guide with a horse will cost you USD 25.
Authentic Nomadic Yurt CampAt-Bashi , Naryn Province, KyrgyzstanTop guest reviews
Host:
from the scenic environment the delicious foods the welcoming hosts to the animalsRead more reviewsLocation:
the location is simply breathtaking and best of all you are the only tourist for miles around
7. Isolated yurt camp with free WiFi (from USD 10)
A night full of stars and a morning surrounded by beach and mountain views await you at Sonun, a yurt camp located at Bokonbayevo, Kyrgyzstan. The yurt is comfortable - extra layers of blankets and a heater are provided to protect you from the cold. The hosts are incredibly accommodating and serve a really good dinner for you and your family. To improve on their service, WiFi has been made available in the campsite.
Yurt camp Sonun
Address: A363
Price: from 10 USD
Pool/beach towels Physical distancing in dining areas Packed lunches Designated smoking area Food can be delivered to guest accommodation Parking Shared kitchen Cooking class
8. Yurt lodge with a beautiful flower garden (from USD 26)
A more modern set-up, several yurts are built surrounding a beautiful garden view. Although not as authentic as the yurts built by nomads themselves, this setting is sure to offer a safer and restful time with a wide range of amenities for visitors’ basic needs. With a restaurant and room-service, experience a comfortable, hotel-like service at Karakol Yurt Lodge. Enjoy a sumptuous breakfast made by the best chefs in town.
Karakol Yurt Lodge
Address: No. 79 Jusaeva Street
Price: from 26 USD
On-site parking Horse riding Restaurant Skiing Evening entertainment Snack bar Fishing Valet parking
9. Tented camp near Song Kol Lake (from USD 10)
The view of the lake with its seemingly endless horizon is an amazing sight you’ll experience at Yurt Camp Azamat. A 10-minute walk from the yurt, Song Kol Lake is a wonder in its own right. For a quicker alternative, go horseback riding to Song Kol Lake and enjoy a good ride by the shore when you get there. The wooden bed may not be very comfortable, but you shouldn’t be staying in when you can experience the great views outside. They have a football field, heated showers, a sauna experience with a view of the mountains, and many more. They are also constantly looking for ways to improve their service.
Yurt Camp Azamat at Song Kol Lake
Address: Song Kol Tuz Ashuu Yurts
Price: from 10 USD
Family rooms Walking tours Tour desk Currency exchange Garden Express check-in/check-out Kid-friendly buffet Hand sanitizer in guest accommodation and key areas
10. Luxurious yurt with underfloor heating
Located close to town and nature, enjoy the scenic views of mountains at the Ski Base, 15 km (9.3 mi) away from this yurt camp. The town is close enough and can be reached within 15 to 20 minutes on foot. The yurts are beautifully made, and they can accommodate up to five guests. Outside is a garden of flowers to greet you as you get up in the morning. The yurts may be made using wooden material, but their underfloor heating will keep you warm and cosy even if you visit during winter.
Happy Nomads Yurt CampKarakol, Ysyk Kol Province, KyrgyzstanTop guest reviews
Host:
they are great hosts that can help plan a week or let you do what you wantRead more reviewsLocation:
great place to stay in karakol
Hidden nature gems
Photo is only for illustrative purposes
They may seem like ordinary, humungous tents on the outside, but these dwellings are considered homes to ancient nomads and like any other family, they make sure that their homes are well-decorated and as lovely as can be. Herding being their primary livelihood, these camps are usually located in remote areas where you get to find and appreciate hidden nature gems such as lakes and mountain sceneries. The lifestyle of the hosts, genuine hospitality and amazing local food are long-standing qualities that make the experience unique.
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