Dive into the heart of Kyrgyzstan’s untouched wilderness with our 7-day trekking tour to the stunning Ala-Kol Lake. This journey through the breathtaking Terskei Ala-Too mountain range combines adventure, natural beauty, and cultural immersion, creating memories that will last a lifetime.
Your adventure begins in Bishkek, where you’ll journey along the southern shores of Issyk-Kul Lake, visiting the iconic Burana Tower, Skazka Canyon, and the picturesque Jety-Oguz Gorge. From Karakol, the trek kicks off with scenic trails leading to the peaceful Karakol Gorge and Sirota Camp, where lush forests and majestic peaks provide the perfect backdrop for the first night under the stars.
The highlight of this adventure is the turquoise jewel of Ala-Kol Lake, perched at an altitude of 3,560 meters. After a challenging ascent to Ala-Kol Pass (3,860 meters), you’ll be rewarded with awe-inspiring panoramic views of this alpine treasure. Descend into the serene Keldike Valley and continue to the enchanting Altyn-Arashan hot springs, where you’ll relax in mineral-rich waters amidst pristine landscapes.
The journey doesn’t end there. You’ll explore Bokonbaeva, a charming lakeside village, and experience the tranquility of Son-Kul Lake’s alpine pastures, where traditional yurt accommodations and optional horse riding offer a glimpse into the nomadic lifestyle.
This trek is a perfect blend of adventure and cultural discovery. Whether it’s hiking through lush valleys, savoring hearty meals by campfires, or immersing yourself in Kyrgyz traditions, this tour promises unforgettable experiences.
Spaces are limited for this group tour, so secure your spot today. Let Shahina Travel guide you through the majestic landscapes of Kyrgyzstan, where every step is an adventure and every view is a masterpiece. Don’t miss your chance to explore the alpine beauty of Ala-Kol Lake!
Begin your adventure with a warm welcome in Bishkek, followed by a scenic drive to the picturesque town of Karakol. The journey takes approximately five hours, traveling along the southern shore of the magnificent Issyk-Kul Lake, renowned as one of the world’s largest and most pristine alpine lakes.
En route, we will make a stop at the historic Burana Tower, an ancient minaret from the Karakhanid era, surrounded by remnants of medieval settlements. Continuing through the Issyk-Kul region, we will visit the stunning Skazka Canyon, also known as Fairy Tale Canyon, where wind and water erosion have sculpted the landscape into breathtaking formations resembling castles, animals, and mythical creatures. Our journey then leads us to the enchanting Jety Oguz Gorge, famous for its red rock formations, including the striking “Seven Bulls” cliffs and the “Broken Heart” rock.
By evening, we will arrive in Karakol, where you will settle into a cozy family guesthouse for the night.
Meals: Not included.
Distance: 14 km | Elevation Gain: +1000 m | Trekking Time: 5–6 hours
After enjoying a hearty breakfast, we will transfer to the starting point of Karakol Gorge. The trek begins at the bridge, where the trail ascends gradually along the western bank of the Karakol River. This portion of the journey showcases diverse landscapes, from lush forests to serene pastures and landslide-affected areas.
The trail meanders alongside peaceful stretches of the river, offering glimpses of grazing horses during the summer months. Over half of the route lies under the shade of dense forest, where the path zigzags upward through verdant greenery. As we ascend, the terrain opens into a scenic plain, leading us to Sirota Hut. This area marks the beginning of the rugged terrain, with rocky peaks and scattered boulders framing the dramatic landscape.
Before tackling the more challenging rocky sections, we will arrive at the Sirota Camp Site, where yurts provide a comfortable resting place for the night.
Meals: Breakfast, packed lunch, and dinner included.
Distance: 10 km | Elevation Gain: +1200 m | Trekking Time: 6–7 hours
Start your day with a satisfying breakfast before setting out on an awe-inspiring trek to Ala-Kol Lake, situated at an elevation of 3,500 meters. Nestled within the dramatic Terskey Ala-Too Mountains, this alpine lake is a natural marvel formed by a rock dam. The shimmering turquoise waters of Ala-Kol Lake, surrounded by rugged peaks, create an unforgettable sight.
After a leisurely lunch along the trail, the journey continues with an ascent to Ala-Kol Pass, the trek’s highest point at 3,860 meters. From this vantage, marvel at panoramic views of the surrounding mountain ranges and valleys. The descent leads us to the tranquil Keldike Valley, where we will set up camp amidst breathtaking alpine scenery. Enjoy a well-earned dinner under the stars before resting in your tents for the night.
Meals: Breakfast, packed lunch, and dinner included.
Distance: 11 km | Elevation Gain: +1100 m | Trekking Time: 3–4 hours
After breakfast, the trek resumes, taking us to the picturesque Altyn-Arashan Valley. This breathtaking region is renowned for its lush meadows, mountain vistas, and natural hot springs. Altyn-Arashan, translating to “Golden Spa,” is a haven for relaxation and rejuvenation.
Take a soothing dip in the radon hot springs, known for their therapeutic properties, as you soak in the serene mountain surroundings. For lunch and dinner, savor hearty meals that complement the authentic Kyrgyz experience. Overnight accommodation will be in traditional yurts, offering a glimpse into the nomadic lifestyle.
Meals: Breakfast, packed lunch, and dinner included.
Distance: 16 km | Elevation Loss: -800 m | Trekking Time: 4–5 hours
Begin the day with breakfast before embarking on an easy hike down the Altyn-Arashan Valley. This descent provides ample opportunities for photography, with scenic views of grazing horses, playful goats, and shepherds tending their flocks. The serene atmosphere and picturesque landscapes make for a delightful morning trek.
Midway through the day, transport will meet us to continue the journey to the charming village of Bokonbaeva. Once there, settle into a welcoming family guesthouse for a comfortable overnight stay.
Meals: Breakfast and packed lunch included.
Distance: 400 km | Travel Time: 5–6 hours
Following breakfast, we will drive to the stunning Son Kul Lake, an expansive alpine lake situated at an elevation of 3,016 meters. The journey takes us along the northern shore of Issyk-Kul Lake, with a stop at the Petroglyphs Museum in Cholpon-Ata. This outdoor museum features ancient rock carvings dating back to the Scythian and Turkic periods, providing insight into the region’s rich history.
Upon arriving at Son Kul Lake, immerse yourself in the pristine beauty of this summer pastureland, where nomadic herders graze their livestock. Optional horse-riding excursions are available for those seeking a closer connection to the Kyrgyz way of life. Overnight in a traditional yurt inn, with dinner included.
Meals: Breakfast and dinner included.
Enjoy your final breakfast at Son Kul Lake before embarking on a scenic five-hour drive back to Bishkek. Upon arrival, you will be dropped off at your hotel, marking the end of this unforgettable journey through Kyrgyzstan’s diverse landscapes and cultural treasures.
Meals: Breakfast included.
Adult | Single supplement | |
Price (per tourist) | $1050 | $40 |
All transportation throughout the tour Tour program with Local trekking Guide National parks, hot springs and camp sites fees Lodging in the Yurt Camps with all meal in a sharing basis Meals as per program National parks, hot springs and camp sites fees Excursions to Burana Tower, Skazka Canyon and Jety Oguz Gorge Bottled spring water for route trips
Any Private Expenses
Tips are not included, but would be appreciated
Travel insurance
Consular fees for tourist visa
Soft & alcohol drinks
Horse riding in Son Kul Lake
Single supplement is available in Karakol only = 40 USD per person
Porters for personal belongings ($280 USD per porter, 15 kg of weight)
Airport transfer in Bishkek
19.07.2025 – 25.07.2025
16.08.2025 – 22.08.2025
Equipment and items for the trekking:
These essential items will ensure your comfort, safety, and preparedness during the trekking adventure.
Physical requirements:
Participants must be in good physical condition, but don’t need any special skills of horse riding. The differences of heights range from 600 m to 850 m in vertical elevation. The maximum elevation is 3 860 m
Payment Terms
Cancellation terms:
My summer with Shahina Travel’s Kyrgyzstan tour was fantastic! I especially enjoyed trekking to Ala-Kol Lake—it was challenging but worth every step for the view. The warmth of the locals and staying in traditional yurts made the journey special. Visiting Burana Tower and the petroglyphs in Cholpon-Ata added historical depth. Altyn-Arashan’s hot springs were rejuvenating, and the natural beauty of Son Kul Lake took my breath away. The logistics were flawless, with excellent guides and well-timed meals. I’m grateful to Shahina Travel for curating such a comprehensive and well-organized itinerary. This adventure is one I’ll cherish forever.
This tour was a dream come true! From the tranquil Issyk-Kul Lake to the stunning Ala-Kol Lake, every destination left me speechless. Trekking through Karakol Gorge and the rugged trails to Keldike Valley was an unforgettable adventure. Altyn-Arashan’s hot springs were a perfect way to unwind, and spending nights in yurts truly immersed us in the nomadic culture. Son Kul Lake’s serene beauty was a fitting finale. A big thank you to Shahina Travel for organizing such a seamless experience. This trip perfectly balanced adventure, relaxation, and cultural discovery. Highly recommend!