The Snow Leopard Eco Fest is a social and environmental event aimed at raising awareness about the conservation of the snow leopard and the development of ecotourism. 

The main goal is to draw the attention of the public, business, and authorities to the need to protect the rare predator and sustainable nature tourism.

About the festival

Snow Leopard | Ak Ilbirs  is an international cultural and environmental festival dedicated to the protection of rare species, the preservation of mountain nature, and the support of traditional cultures of nomadic peoples. 

The festival's symbol is the snow leopard (irbis), one of the rarest and most vulnerable predators in Eurasia, which lives in the mountains of Kyrgyzstan and represents strength, purity, and natural balance.

The festival is held in one of the most picturesque corners of the Issyk-Kul region — at the jailoo Kara-Ala-Archa, also known as Boz Salkyn, where the legendary Kyrgyz film of the same name was shot. This place combines natural beauty, cinematic atmosphere and a deep spiritual connection with the cultural heritage of the people.

The mission

Promoting the conservation of the snow leopard as a symbol of natural balance

Raising awareness of the biodiversity of mountain ecosystems

Support for ethno-cultural identity and sustainable tourism

Combining science, art, traditions and sports in a natural environment

Ecology and science 

International presentations by ecologists, zoologists and experts

Field presentations of nature reserves and environmental organizations

Lectures on the snow leopard and the ecosystem of the Tien Shan

Eco-zones without plastic, workshops on sustainable lifestyle

Culture and heritage 

Live performances by manaschi, akyns and performers of folk poetry

Concerts of famous Kyrgyz artists and ethnic ensembles

National games: ordo, toguz korgool, alysh

Display of hunting traditions: Salbuurun (golden eagles, hunting birds, taz)

Ethnographic fair, crafts, nomadic art

Sports program 

Mountain race"In the footsteps of the snow leopard" will be held the next day on August 10

Nature trails with trail running elements

Participation is open to all comers, prizes and certificates are provided.

Accommodation and conditions

Tent camp (by prior reservation)

All events are held in conditions of respect for nature.

Participation

Entrance to the festival area is free.

Participation in the race "In the footsteps of the Snow Leopard" - from 1200 soms

Separate master classes and activities are available upon registration

Organizers and partners

The Snow Leopard | Ak Ilbirs Festival is organized with the support of:

NABU Kyrgyzstan. An international environmental organization working in the field of biodiversity conservation and protection of snow leopards in Central Asia.

Sayakat Tourism is the official partner in logistics, accommodation, transfers and tourism infrastructure in the Issyk-Kul region.

Delegations from the SCO countries, Turkey, Europe, as well as international photographers and researchers are expected.

Location: Kyrgyzstan, Issyk-Kul region, Ton district, Karala-Archa jailoo, 15 km from Bokonbaevo village

For more information, you can contact our operators

INSTAGRAM