Fly Over Khan Tengri: 3-Day Helicopter Highlight

Bikepacking Kyrgyzstan + Helicopter Tour: The Ultimate Adventure Mix

You come to Kyrgyzstan for real bikepacking: high mountain passes, gravel roads, wide valleys, and true freedom on two wheels. Now imagine one upgrade that can make your route even more unforgettable - adding a short 3-day helicopter “wow break” between your cycling stages.

Picture this: you’ve already ridden your best roads (or you’re about to start), and for three days you swap handlebars for an epic cockpit view. You fly above the Tien Shan Mountains, the Inylchek Glacier, and the mysterious Merzbacher Lake - a moment that resets your mind and brings your motivation back to 100%. Then you’re back on the bike, with fresh energy and the feeling that you’ve seen Kyrgyzstan not only from the trail, but also from the perspective of a true expedition.

The tour starts in Bishkek and follows the north shore of Issyk-Kul Lake to the Karkyra yurt camp. The next day, you take a helicopter flight to South Inylchek Base Camp: beneath you are ice fields, sharp ridgelines, and landscapes you simply can’t experience from the road. From the camp, you’ll see legendary peaks like Khan Tengri and Pobeda Peak - like a documentary, except you’re inside the frame. On day three, you fly back and return to Bishkek.

The idea is simple: bikepacking remains the core of your trip, and the helicopter tour becomes a premium highlight inside your itinerary. Do it before your ride, as a mid-trip rest and inspiration break, or as a final masterpiece after your cycling finish.

Planning a bikepacking trip and need a bicycle rental in Kyrgyzstan? With FreeBike.kg you can rent a touring-ready bike and build a smart adventure mix: ride the routes, then fly above the biggest mountains - or do it the other way around.

Please contact us for more information 




Description

Embark on an exciting adventure in the heart of the Tien Shan! A helicopter flight over Kyrgyzstan’s largest glacier and the famous Merzbacher Lake offers unforgettable views.

Khan Tengri Peak will reveal its full majestic beauty.

Experience the atmosphere of an alpine Base Camp at over 2500 meters, with comfortable tents, tasty meals, and a glimpse into the daily life of mountain expeditions. This trip is perfect for those seeking memorable experiences and inspiration among the towering peaks.

Program

Day 1. Bishkek city – Karkyra yurt camp

Your adventure begins early in the morning in Bishkek. We will travel along the northern shore of Issyk-Kul Lake.

The journey takes about 8 hours (470 km), with a stop for lunch at a cozy café along the way.

By evening, you will arrive at Karkyra yurt camp at the foot of the mountains, where you will stay in comfortable double tents and enjoy a delicious buffet dinner.

Day 2. Helicopter flight to South Engilchek Base Camp

After breakfast, an impressive helicopter flight over the heart of the Tien-Shan awaits. Beneath the helicopter, you will see green valleys, alpine meadows, and snow-capped ridges. You will fly over the Tien-Shan’s largest glacier, Engilchek, as well as the mysterious Merzbacher Lake, which appears and disappears depending on the season.

The helicopter will land at the South Engilchek Base Camp, offering incredible views of Victory Peak (7439 m) and the legendary Khan-Tengri Peak (7010 m).

Dinner and overnight stay at the Base Camp.

Day 3. South Engilchek Base Camp – Karkyra yurt camp – Bishkek city

In the morning, enjoy breakfast followed by a helicopter flight back to Karkyra yurt camp.

Afterward, a transfer to Bishkek awaits. The tour ends here, but the memories of majestic peaks, glaciers, and the fresh mountain air will stay with you for a long time.

Transportation at crossings:

For 3-14 people: 1 Mercedes Sprinter minibus (17 seats, with A/C)

Visa and visa support: Citizens of the European Union do not require a visa or visa support to enter Kyrgyzstan. Free visa regime for up to 60 days.

Meals: Full board

Included in the price:

• Accommodation in TWIN/DBL tents – 2 nights
• Meals – full board (B – 2, L – 0, D – 2)
• Helicopter flight from Karkyra to South Engilchek Base Camp and back
• Transfer from Bishkek to Karkyra and back
• Entrance and environmental fees during the entire tour
• Border permit for visiting specially protected or border areas

Not included in the price:

• Single occupancy supplement in tents
• Drinks and meals not included in the program
• Insurance
• All airfare costs
• Personal expenses and tips
• Visa fee and visa support fee (if required)

Dates for 2026.

Please contact us for more information