By shared taxi or marshrutka: The most common approach. Shared taxis from Bishkek's east bus station take four to five hours along the northern shore of Issyk-Kul and cost around 600 to 800 som per seat. Marshrutkas (minibuses) take a little longer and are cheaper but less reliable in timing. Both depart when full.
By air: Karakol International Airport reopened in late 2024 with seasonal flights from Bishkek operated by Avia Traffic Company. The flight takes about an hour and is dramatically cheaper in time than the overland route, though flights are limited to the summer season.
By bus: Overnight buses from Bishkek are available but less comfortable than a shared taxi; they take six to seven hours. Buses from Osh (eastern Kyrgyzstan, via the Torugart Pass or the southern shore) are infrequent and take a full day.