Kyrgyzstan Trekking: 10 Days Ala-Kul & Tian Shan Circuit

Tour Overview

Itinerary Highlights

Day 1: Bishkek Arrival

Arrive and explore. Overnight in Bishkek.

Day 2: Karakol via Issyk-Kul

Drive the southern shore of Issyk-Kul. Stop at the Skazka (Fairy Tale) Canyon — red sandstone formations like Utah transported to Central Asia. Arrive Karakol. Overnight in Karakol.

Day 3: Karakol Valley — Trek Day 1

Trek into the Karakol Valley through pine forests toward Karakol Peak (5,216m). Camp at 2,900m.

Day 4: Ala-Kul Lake — The Turquoise Jewel

The most challenging and rewarding day: ascend to Ala-Kul Lake (3,560m), a stunning high-alpine lake whose color changes from deep turquoise to emerald depending on the light. Camp near the lake.

Day 5: Ala-Kul Pass — The Summit

Cross the Ala-Kul Pass (3,860m) — the highest point of the trek with 360° views of the entire Terskey Ala-Too range. Descend into the Altyn Arashan Valley. Soak in hot springs. Overnight at mountain hut.

Day 6: Altyn Arashan Rest Day

Rest day in Altyn Arashan. Optional day hikes to glaciers, more hot springs, or just relax. Overnight at mountain hut.

Day 7: Return to Karakol

Hike or 4×4 back to Karakol. Hot shower and celebration dinner. Overnight in Karakol.

Day 8: Jeti-Ögüz & Return to Bishkek

Morning at Jeti-Ögüz (Seven Bulls red rocks). Drive to Bishkek. Overnight in Bishkek.

Day 9: Bishkek Free Day

Markets, museums, and relaxation. Farewell dinner. Overnight in Bishkek.

Day 10: Depart Bishkek

Transfer to airport.

Inclusions

• 9 nights accommodation (city + mountain huts/tents)
• All meals during trek (3 days city B&B)
• All camping equipment
• Horses for luggage transport (trek portion)
• Experienced trekking guide
• 4×4 Altyn Arashan transfer
• All park fees
• Airport transfers

Why Kyrgyzstan

• Ala-Kul Pass (3,860m) — stand on top of the Tian Shan with 360° views
• Ala-Kul Lake — the most stunning alpine lake you’ve never heard of, colors that change by the hour
• Hot springs at 2,600m — soak in nature’s jacuzzi as glaciers gleam above
• The Tian Shan — the Mountains of Heaven, one of the world’s great wildernesses
• Trek past 5,000m peaks with only eagle cries for company

What’s Not Included

• Entrance fees to attractions
• Tour Guide
• Meal (lunch and dinner)
• International flights
• Travel insurance
• Personal expenses