Kyrgyzstan is a real treasure of natural wonders in Central Asia. After multiple blog posts where I’m raving about its beauty, specifically near alpine lakes and the mountains, such as Kel Suu and Ala Kul, it is now time to show you another natural wonder. On the southern side of Issy-Kul Lake, Fairytale Canyon (Skazka Canyon) stands out as a magical destination. On my recent roundtrip through Kyrgyzstan, my visit to the Fairytale Canyon left an unforgettable mark on my travel memories. Therefore, this travel guide shows you everything you need to know to make the most of your visit to this hidden gem.
Combine a visit to the Fairytale Canyon with a hike to Ala Kul to explore all aspects of Kyrgyzstan.
Fairytale Canyon, known locally as Skazka Canyon, is named for its surreal and vibrant rock formations that seem straight out of a fantasy tale. After visiting the mountain ranges, the canyon’s landscape is a striking contrast and offers visitors a completely different natural experience. When exploring the canyon, you’ll be mesmerised by the beautiful colours the rocks display, mainly deep red and sometimes combined with green and purple glow.
One of the highlights of my visit was the exhilarating climb up a slippery slope, which was truly rewarding. At the top, I was greeted with a panoramic view of the canyon, its red rocks glowing under he sun. Standing amidst this untouched and unique landscape is something you’ll want to experience.
The best time to visit Fairytale Canyon is during the spring and autumn months, from April to June and September to October. During these periods, the weather is mild, and the landscape is particularly vibrant. Summer can be quite hot, making the climb and exploration less comfortable, while winter can bring cold temperatures and potential snowfall. However, as the best time to visit Kyrgyzstan in general is between July and September, I would recommend visiting during these months to be able to explore the mountains as well.
Fairytale Canyon is located near the southern shore of Issyk-Kul Lake, approximately 120 kilometers from the city of Karakol and 230 kilometers from Bishkek, the capital of Kyrgyzstan. Here are a few options for getting there:
Staying at the southern shore of the Issyk-Kul lake is the best base to explore the Fairytale Canyon. Generally, staying at Issyk-Kul Lake is a great break from the mountains and offers a completely different experience of Kyrgyzstan, with warmer temperatures and sunbathing.
What doesn’t change when staying near Issyk-Kul lake is staying at yurt camps, however, some guest houses are available. These are some of the most popular camps at the shore:
Bel Tam Yurt Camp – This is the yurt camp I stayed at during my trip to Kyrgyzstan, a beautiful camp with nice showers and wifi (€45 a night)
Ak Tengir Yurt Resort – A luxury yurt resort with bohemian vibes, including a private beach, where you can stay for €80 a night for 4 persons
Agat Yurt Camp – A beautiful yurt camp at the lake with 2 person yurts, for €40 a night
Remote. Forgotten Rivers – If you are seeking a unique experience, these remote cabins near the lake are a great option. For €140 a night, you have a hut that is very luxurious for Kyrgyz standards.
During our round trip to Kyrgyzstan, we combined a visit to the Fairytale Canyon with a local eagle hunt demonstration, which can be found near the Fairytale Canyon. Inform at your accommodation in Kyrgyzstan on the best ways to book this Eagle demonstration if it is on your list. Online, mainly 3-day (overpriced) tours can be found.
Fairytale Canyon charges a small entrance fee of approximately 50 Kyrgyz Som (about $0.60) per person. This fee helps maintain the site and supports local conservation efforts. The canyon is relatively undeveloped, with no amenities like restrooms or food vendors, so be sure to bring water, snacks, and any other necessities you might need.
When you are seeking an off-the-beaten-path travel experience, Fairytale Canyon is a must-visit destination. Its unique landscape, coupled with the vibrant colours and contrasting terrain, make it a truly special place. Whether you’re climbing the slopes to get a better view or simply wandering among the fantastical rock formations, Fairytale Canyon promises an adventure unlike any other. It’s heaven for photographers and I wish I could go back to capture even more of its beauty.
