The transfer from Karakol to Jyrgalan takes approximately one hour, covering a distance of about 60 kilometers. This marks the beginning of our 8-day trekking adventure. We will spend the first night at a yurt camp situated at 3200 meters. The total trekking distance for this leg of the journey is 14 kilometers.
Overnight in yurt camp (shared)
Included meal: Lunch and dinner
Overnight in yurt camp (shared)
Included meal: Lunch and dinner
Today's breakfast sets us up for a day with two passes to conquer. The first challenge is the Bulak-Ashuu pass at 3450 meters. Following that ascent, we'll tackle the climb from the valley floor to reach the Boz-Uchuk pass at 3363 meters. Along the way, we'll pause for a lunch break. Our campsite will be nestled near the Boz-Uchuk lakes, sharing the same altitude as the pass. If we reach our camp early, there's a chance to catch a beautiful sunset from the northern tip of the ridge overlooking the Issyk-Kol basin. However, many may find it difficult to leave the captivating scenery of the Boz-Uchuk Lakes. We'll spend the night in the yurt camp at an elevation of 3450 meters after covering a trekking distance of 11 kilometers.
Overnight in yurt camp (shared)
Included meal: Breakfast, Lunch and dinner
Overnight in yurt camp (shared)
Included meal: Breakfast, Lunch and dinner
An early breakfast is served to prepare us for a challenging day ahead. We'll start by crossing the small ridge located just west of our campsite, then descend to the main valley floor below. Following the trail uphill for approximately 2 kilometers alongside the river, we'll eventually cross it and continue our ascent, heading towards the prominent pass in the distance at 3524 meters. From the pass's summit, the Jergez valley unfolds beneath us, offering a stunning view of the majestic Tashtanbek Tor Bashi peak dominating the southern horizon. After roughly 2 hours of trekking, we'll reach the pass's apex.
Descending from the pass, our journey continues towards the first Ailanysh Lake at 3445 meters, visible southwest across the valley, following the Jergez river and the initial stretch of the Ailanysh valley. We'll break for lunch near Lake Ailanysh. As we progress, the ascent becomes steeper beyond the second lake, leading us to the Ailanysh Pass at 3676 meters.
As we embark on the final descent of the day, approximately 5 kilometers into the trail, it curves just above the main branch of the Ak-Suu river, unveiling breathtaking views of an unnamed peak standing at 3855 meters and the dazzling snowy expanses of the Ak-Suu Wall's glaciated slopes.
Our overnight stay will be in yurts at an elevation of 2750 meters, offering a well-deserved rest after a day filled with incredible landscapes and challenging terrain.
Overnight in yurt camp (shared)
Included meal: Breakfast, Lunch and dinner
Descending from the pass, our journey continues towards the first Ailanysh Lake at 3445 meters, visible southwest across the valley, following the Jergez river and the initial stretch of the Ailanysh valley. We'll break for lunch near Lake Ailanysh. As we progress, the ascent becomes steeper beyond the second lake, leading us to the Ailanysh Pass at 3676 meters.
As we embark on the final descent of the day, approximately 5 kilometers into the trail, it curves just above the main branch of the Ak-Suu river, unveiling breathtaking views of an unnamed peak standing at 3855 meters and the dazzling snowy expanses of the Ak-Suu Wall's glaciated slopes.
Our overnight stay will be in yurts at an elevation of 2750 meters, offering a well-deserved rest after a day filled with incredible landscapes and challenging terrain.
Overnight in yurt camp (shared)
Included meal: Breakfast, Lunch and dinner
Today's trek may not cover a long distance, but it starts with a challenging 800-meter climb to reach the Ortok Pass at 3650 meters. Following the pass, the trail meanders along the eastern side of the river, leading us into the main Ak-Suu Arashan valley. We'll enjoy lunch along the way before embarking on a short walk to the renowned wild hot springs, where we can indulge in a relaxing dip. These hot springs have been a local attraction since long before the Soviet era.
Tonight, we'll stay at a guesthouse located at an elevation of 2500 meters. It's a good opportunity to rest and recharge because tomorrow's journey involves a longer but highly rewarding uphill trek. The total trekking distance for today is 14 kilometers.
Overnight in guest house (shared)
Included meal: Breakfast, Lunch and dinner
Tonight, we'll stay at a guesthouse located at an elevation of 2500 meters. It's a good opportunity to rest and recharge because tomorrow's journey involves a longer but highly rewarding uphill trek. The total trekking distance for today is 14 kilometers.
Overnight in guest house (shared)
Included meal: Breakfast, Lunch and dinner
After breakfast, we embark on a journey to conquer the renowned Ala-Kul pass. Starting from Altyn Arashan, we cross the expansive bridge to the west side of the Ak-Suu River and head south for slightly over 2 kilometers until we reach the first large valley that ascends southwestward. At this point, the real challenge begins—a strenuous 8-kilometer uphill climb from 2570 meters at the valley floor to 3906 meters at the Ala-Kul North pass awaits us. The final 200 meters of elevation gain feels almost vertical, with loose scree underfoot, yet well-trodden paths mark the way, evidence of the multitude of hikers who venture along Issyk-Kol's most popular trekking route. The reward at the top of the pass is breathtaking, offering an awe-inspiring panorama of towering peaks exceeding 5000 meters and the expansive beauty of Ala-Kul lake.
Our campsite for the night will be next to Ala-Kul lake, where we'll rest in tents at an elevation of 3550 meters. Today's trek covers a distance of 15 kilometers, promising both physical challenge and stunning natural vistas.
Overnight in tent or yurt stay (shared)
Included meal: Breakfast, Lunch and dinner
Our campsite for the night will be next to Ala-Kul lake, where we'll rest in tents at an elevation of 3550 meters. Today's trek covers a distance of 15 kilometers, promising both physical challenge and stunning natural vistas.
Overnight in tent or yurt stay (shared)
Included meal: Breakfast, Lunch and dinner
Leaving the campsite, we head westward. While most tourists opt to descend to the Karakol Valley via the Sirota hut, we'll take a different path. A small trail, clearly visible from a distance, leads us on a loop around the curve of the lake and ascends along a rockfall to reach the Panorama Pass at 3781 meters. Along the horizon from east to west, prominent summits such as Djigit Peak (5178m), Karakol Peak (5216m), and Öguz-Bashi Peak (5126m) stand out majestically.
The hike to the Panorama Pass covers about 4 kilometers and typically takes around two hours, possibly longer if you prefer a slower pace on downhill stretches. Once we've descended into the valley, it's time to pause for lunch and give our knees a well-deserved break before gearing up for the next ascent. Our campsite for the night will be situated at 3200 meters. Today's trekking distance totals 15 kilometers, promising both challenging terrain and rewarding vistas of Kyrgyzstan's stunning mountain landscapes.
Overnight in yurt stay (shared)
Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch and dinner
The hike to the Panorama Pass covers about 4 kilometers and typically takes around two hours, possibly longer if you prefer a slower pace on downhill stretches. Once we've descended into the valley, it's time to pause for lunch and give our knees a well-deserved break before gearing up for the next ascent. Our campsite for the night will be situated at 3200 meters. Today's trekking distance totals 15 kilometers, promising both challenging terrain and rewarding vistas of Kyrgyzstan's stunning mountain landscapes.
Overnight in yurt stay (shared)
Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch and dinner
After having breakfast, we'll begin our journey by heading up the valley for approximately 3 kilometers until we reach a point where a path diverges towards the Telety Valley. This valley offers an abundance of options for campsites, but for unparalleled views, we recommend a spacious flat area located about halfway up the valley. Here, the river widens momentarily, providing breathtaking panoramas of Telety to the southwest and a glimpse back towards Ala-Kol's passes in the northeast.
We'll then pack up our camp and proceed up the valley, marking the final uphill stretch of our week-long trek. Our destination is the Telety Pass at 3792 meters, which can be comfortably reached in less than two hours, although the terrain does become slightly steeper towards the end. From the pass, we'll continue our descent for another hour and a half until we reach the river valley on the opposite side, covering approximately 7 kilometers from camp to pass to the river.
For the night, we'll set up camp not far from the river, providing a peaceful and serene environment for a well-deserved rest. Our campsite's elevation will be around 3100 meters, and the total trekking distance for the day will be 14 kilometers.
Overnight in yurt stay (shared)
Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
We'll then pack up our camp and proceed up the valley, marking the final uphill stretch of our week-long trek. Our destination is the Telety Pass at 3792 meters, which can be comfortably reached in less than two hours, although the terrain does become slightly steeper towards the end. From the pass, we'll continue our descent for another hour and a half until we reach the river valley on the opposite side, covering approximately 7 kilometers from camp to pass to the river.
For the night, we'll set up camp not far from the river, providing a peaceful and serene environment for a well-deserved rest. Our campsite's elevation will be around 3100 meters, and the total trekking distance for the day will be 14 kilometers.
Overnight in yurt stay (shared)
Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
We'll descend to the Djeti-Oguz valley, where we'll enjoy lunch in traditional yurts before embarking on a short hike to visit the famous waterfall known as Girl’s Braids. Later, transportation will pick us up from Kok-Jaik pasture and transfer us to Karakol town.
Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Price per person
$ 1600
1 pax
$1195
2 pax
3 pax
$1073
What‘s included
What‘s not included
English-speaking Guide
Transportation from Karakol to trekking
start point and back Karakol
Meals in trekking days
Accommodation
(yurt camp, tent and a guest house)
Porter (8kg luugage for each tourist)
Hot springs and entrance fees
Transportation from Karakol to trekking
start point and back Karakol
Meals in trekking days
Accommodation
(yurt camp, tent and a guest house)
Porter (8kg luugage for each tourist)
Hot springs and entrance fees
Transportation from Bishkek to Karakol
Alcohol
Insurance
Accommodation in Karakol
Single supplement for the tent
Double supplement for the yurt
Alcohol
Insurance
Accommodation in Karakol
Single supplement for the tent
Double supplement for the yurt
Important Information
Season: June-September
Cancellation Policy
Free cancellation - 90 days prior to meeting time (Taxes and transaction fee is not refundable)
50% Refund - 40 to 50 days prior to meeting time
No Refund - Within 30 days prior to meeting time
Season: June-September
Cancellation Policy
Free cancellation - 90 days prior to meeting time (Taxes and transaction fee is not refundable)
50% Refund - 40 to 50 days prior to meeting time
No Refund - Within 30 days prior to meeting time
Equipment and items for trekking part:
• Sleeping bag up to -5 C
• Trekking boots with high proper ankle support and good thread. Extra shoes or pair of sandals, in case if first shoes will be wet during the rain and etc.
• Waterproof rain jacket and trousers
• Warm closes and extra closes to exchange
• Hat and cap, sun glasess, high factor sun cream
• Daypack 40-50 litters and rain cover. It is also good idea to line your daypack with a quality plastic bag
• Head-torch
• Bottle for water
• Quick-drying towel
• First aid kit, if you have some disease
Recommended to have
• Walking sticks
• Toiletries
• Insect repellants (for lower elevations)
• Water purification tables or a water filter (more details in Notes)
• Some Diamox pills against potential altitude sickness (if you don’t have altitude adaptation)
• Pocket knife
• Sleeping bag up to -5 C
• Trekking boots with high proper ankle support and good thread. Extra shoes or pair of sandals, in case if first shoes will be wet during the rain and etc.
• Waterproof rain jacket and trousers
• Warm closes and extra closes to exchange
• Hat and cap, sun glasess, high factor sun cream
• Daypack 40-50 litters and rain cover. It is also good idea to line your daypack with a quality plastic bag
• Head-torch
• Bottle for water
• Quick-drying towel
• First aid kit, if you have some disease
Recommended to have
• Walking sticks
• Toiletries
• Insect repellants (for lower elevations)
• Water purification tables or a water filter (more details in Notes)
• Some Diamox pills against potential altitude sickness (if you don’t have altitude adaptation)
• Pocket knife
WATER
Water is very important while trekking. During trekking we offer tea/coffee, however, it will be limited. In Kyrgyzstan, most of the trekking trails are near the river, however not all water streams, rivers, and lakes can be safe and clean for drinking. It is possible to fill up water from natural springs, that has very less chances of having particles in it. Local people same as a lot of tourists don't have problems drinking water from the source, however, if you are not sure please bring water cleaning pills or filters with you for the trek from your homeland. You will not be able to find water cleaning pills in Kyrgyzstan.
LUGGAGE ON TOUR
• Main Baggage:
You don't need to take main luggage to trip. You can take any clothes that you need with yourself and other staff left in luggage behind at the group hotel used prior to the trek.
• Luggage to the porters:
Mostly all of our standard programs were made for not to do long hikes, usually 3 to 8 days. We are providing 1 porter to 1 person, which carries 15 kg, that weight including food, tents, cooking staff and private things of clients, usually around 3-5kg first days. Weight of food will decrease day by day and you will have the possibility to give extra weight to the porter. You can order extra porter if you having some big weight items as camera with lens, special equipment and etc.
• Daysac/Rucksack:
30-50 liters of rucksack recommended. During trekking day, you do not have access to the luggage, which is being carried for you by the porters or horse (Depends on trekking). In mountain region, the weather can change very fast and you should be equipped for this. Your day sack should be large enough to carry waterproofs, fleece jacket, long trousers (if walking in shorts), warm hat and gloves, sun cap, sun cream, water bottle and other staff which you need during the trek. On some occasions, it is also necessary to carry your own packed lunch.
TRECKKING GRADE
To go to trekking you need to have a good level of fitness, heath and previous trekking experience is recommended. Trekking days are generally longer, challenging and at higher altitudes up to 3800 meters. Terrain may be difficult and ascents and descents are often demanding, especially during rain or snow.
INSURANCE
Travel insurance is NOT included. We advice that clients have their own travel insurance against illness, injury, loss/damage to personal belongings. In case of emergency our staff will make all the best to delivery you to hospital or other point and solve your problem, insurance will cover your charges. In case of no insurance, need to cover charges by yourself.
MEAL
Breakfast: consist some of following dishes: Porridge, omelet, omelet with fried sausages, pancakes, scrambled eggs with sausage, boiled eggs and etc + bread, jam, butter, honey, sweets, tea/coffee. Lunch boxes or lunch: Dried fruits, chocolate, yogurt, juice, cheese, sandwich, vegetables/fruits and tea/coffee. Dinner: Our cooks is preparing european and asian cuisine You need to let us know if you are vegetarian or have some preferences, so we will be able to make special menu for you.
TIPPING
Service of local staff is included to the program; however, it is polite to tip to local staff if the service has been very good. Also at your discretion, you might also consider tipping your tour manager in appreciation of the efficiency and service you receive.
Water is very important while trekking. During trekking we offer tea/coffee, however, it will be limited. In Kyrgyzstan, most of the trekking trails are near the river, however not all water streams, rivers, and lakes can be safe and clean for drinking. It is possible to fill up water from natural springs, that has very less chances of having particles in it. Local people same as a lot of tourists don't have problems drinking water from the source, however, if you are not sure please bring water cleaning pills or filters with you for the trek from your homeland. You will not be able to find water cleaning pills in Kyrgyzstan.
LUGGAGE ON TOUR
• Main Baggage:
You don't need to take main luggage to trip. You can take any clothes that you need with yourself and other staff left in luggage behind at the group hotel used prior to the trek.
• Luggage to the porters:
Mostly all of our standard programs were made for not to do long hikes, usually 3 to 8 days. We are providing 1 porter to 1 person, which carries 15 kg, that weight including food, tents, cooking staff and private things of clients, usually around 3-5kg first days. Weight of food will decrease day by day and you will have the possibility to give extra weight to the porter. You can order extra porter if you having some big weight items as camera with lens, special equipment and etc.
• Daysac/Rucksack:
30-50 liters of rucksack recommended. During trekking day, you do not have access to the luggage, which is being carried for you by the porters or horse (Depends on trekking). In mountain region, the weather can change very fast and you should be equipped for this. Your day sack should be large enough to carry waterproofs, fleece jacket, long trousers (if walking in shorts), warm hat and gloves, sun cap, sun cream, water bottle and other staff which you need during the trek. On some occasions, it is also necessary to carry your own packed lunch.
TRECKKING GRADE
To go to trekking you need to have a good level of fitness, heath and previous trekking experience is recommended. Trekking days are generally longer, challenging and at higher altitudes up to 3800 meters. Terrain may be difficult and ascents and descents are often demanding, especially during rain or snow.
INSURANCE
Travel insurance is NOT included. We advice that clients have their own travel insurance against illness, injury, loss/damage to personal belongings. In case of emergency our staff will make all the best to delivery you to hospital or other point and solve your problem, insurance will cover your charges. In case of no insurance, need to cover charges by yourself.
MEAL
Breakfast: consist some of following dishes: Porridge, omelet, omelet with fried sausages, pancakes, scrambled eggs with sausage, boiled eggs and etc + bread, jam, butter, honey, sweets, tea/coffee. Lunch boxes or lunch: Dried fruits, chocolate, yogurt, juice, cheese, sandwich, vegetables/fruits and tea/coffee. Dinner: Our cooks is preparing european and asian cuisine You need to let us know if you are vegetarian or have some preferences, so we will be able to make special menu for you.
TIPPING
Service of local staff is included to the program; however, it is polite to tip to local staff if the service has been very good. Also at your discretion, you might also consider tipping your tour manager in appreciation of the efficiency and service you receive.