Bishkek → Song-Kul transfer
Song-Kul is a high alpine lake at 3,016 m surrounded by summer pastures and yurt camps. From Bishkek it is 300 km and about six and a half hours by 4x4, the last 90 km on gravel over the Kalmak-Ashuu pass.
- Distance300 km
- Drive time6 h 30 min
- Pricefrom $290
Bishkek → Song-Kul: price per car
| Car | Per car one way | Per person if you are 2 · 3 · 4 · 6 | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4x4 up to 4 Land Cruiser / Prado / UAZ | $290 ≈ 25,400 som | $145 | $97 | $73 | — |
English-speaking driver +$15–20 · return — same price. Prices updated 12 October 2026.
The road
Asphalt to Kochkor, then gravel and switchbacks over Kalmak-Ashuu (3,446 m) or the gentler Tuz-Ashuu from the south. A 4x4 is the right car; the road is closed by snow from October to May.
Worth stopping
- Kochkor for lunch.
- Kalmak-Ashuu pass viewpoint.
Good to know
- Yurt camp with dinner and breakfast is about 1,000–1,500 som per person; we can book it.
- Two-day return (driver stays at the lake): $390 by 4x4.
Included
- Private car and driver, fuel, tolls
- Meet & greet with name sign at airports, 60 min free waiting
- Stops on the way where you ask (up to 1 h in total)
- Free cancellation up to 24 h before
- Pay the driver in cash or card — no prepayment for transfers
Bishkek → Song-Kul: questions
When can you go to Song-Kul?
June to September. In October and May the passes can already be snowed in; we confirm a few days before.
How much is a jeep to Song-Kul?
From Bishkek $290 one way by 4x4 for up to 4; from Kochkor $110. A two-day return trip with the driver waiting is $390.
Can we split the 4x4 with other travellers?
Yes — post on our free travel-buddy board; four people make it about $72 each.
Travelling solo? Split the car
Our free travel-buddy board — post your route and dates, find others going the same way, and share the car.