From BishkekRegular bus/Marshutka and taxi services leave Bishkek in the morning for the 5â6 hour drive. Bus/Marshutka fare is around 300 soms Dec 2011, and a seat in a taxi is 500â600 soms July 2012. If you go to Balykchy or somewhere on the lake's northern shore, these services might take you for a reduced fare.
From KazakhstanRegular buses and taxis leave for the Kazakh border to Kegen regularly, although the border crossing at the Karkara Valley is currently closed.
From Tamchy Issyk Kul AirportTamchy is approximately 2½â3 hours away, and taxis can be arranged locally. Tamchy has limited air service on SCAT airways during the summer travel season.
Karakol AirportKarakol has an airport, largely used for charter service and located on the northern edge of the city. In 2011 Almaty-Karakol flights flew once a week during the ski season and schedules may be reinstated again in 2012.
