Konorchek Canyons

The Konorchek canyons are a maze of red sandstone walls, towers and narrow passages near the Boom gorge — a short drive from the Bishkek–Issyk-Kul road and one of the most surprising hikes in Kyrgyzstan.

Wind and water have carved the soft red rock into deep canyons, arches and shapes like castles. The hike follows a dry riverbed between the walls, sometimes narrow enough to touch both sides, and climbs to viewpoints over the eroded landscape. It feels like another planet — and you are likely to have it to yourself.

There is no water or shade in the canyons, so go in spring or autumn, start early and bring plenty to drink. A 4×4 is needed for the last part of the access road.

• Location: near the Boom gorge, about 2 hours from Bishkek
• Hike: 4–6 hours, moderate
• Best time: April–June and September–October
• Bring: water, sun hat, good shoes