Culture and nomadic people on a trekking trip to the mountains of Pamir and Tian-Shan
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Trekking
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Initiation to Intermediate
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1 - 8
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May, Jun, Jul & Sept
OVERVIEW TREKKING KYRGYZSTAN
Discover Kyrgyzstan, a natural gem yet to be exploited. The Pamir and Tian Shan mountains, crystalline lakes like Ala Kul and its nomadic people who live in yurts. Infinite trekking possibilities in programs of 11 to 15 days.
Highlights
- Cultural Diversity and Nomadic Traditions
- Untouched Natural Wonders
- Tailored Trekking Programs
- Customizable Travel Options
ITINERARY TREKKING KYRGYZSTAN
After meeting at the airport by your guide, transfer to Bishkek. The capital of Kyrgyzstan is situated at 700 metres above sea level. On arrival we will stay at the hotel. In the afternoon free time to explore the city and recover from the flight.
The adventure begins! Transfer to Ala Archa National Park, which is only 40 minutes from the capital. We will start the ascent to the mountain hut which is located at 3350 meters. The ascent can take about 5 hours, depending on your fitness level and the state of the snow. Accommodation in Ratsek’s hut.
Ratsek’s hut is a mountain lodge which is the initial point for several summits of the area such us Semenov-Tian-Shansky Peak (4,870 meters), Baichechekey Peak (4,515 meters), Korona (Crown) Peak (4,860 meters).
After breakfast we start our descent and upon arrival at the car we drive to Son Kul Lake (3016m). Son Kul Lake is a stunning alpine lake located in the heart of Kyrgyzstan, offering breathtaking natural beauty and a serene escape into nature. Nestled at an altitude of 3,016 meters, this remote gem is surrounded by lush green pastures and majestic mountain ranges. Here will appreciate the Kyrgyz culture, traditional yurt stays, horseback riding, and encounters with nomadic herders. There is also the possibility of horse riding. Overnight in a yurt.
After breakfast we start our journey to Tash-Rabat. The stone caravanserai of Tash-Rabat is located at an altitude of over 3,000m. This historic building of the Great Silk Road from the 15th century where merchants and traders stopped to rest. Hiking towards Panda Pass. A beautiful activity recommended on horseback to reach Panda Pass and be able to see the Chatry Kol Lake. Traditional dinner and overnight in yurts.
After breakfast will have long drive following the courses of the 2 main rivers of Kyrgyzstan, Naryn river and Kichi Naryn. On the afternoon will arrive to Issyk-Kul lake, one of the largest alpine lakes in the world (just after Titicaca). It is known to be the beach of the country were all populations comes to relax on their beaches and swim in his crystal-clear waters. Will rest on the lake shoreside after the last hiking days.
After breakfast, we’ll drive along the scenic southern shore of Issyk-Kul Lake. Along the way, we’ll stop at the stunning Barskoon Waterfalls, explore the unique rock formations of “Broken Heart” and “Seven Bulls” in the Jety Oguz Valley, and visit the picturesque lunar landscapes of Skazka. Our journey will end in the charming mountain town of Karakol, where we will stay overnight.
Today, we begin our trek to Ala Kul Lake, departing from Karakol after breakfast. For those who prefer, there is an option to take a taxi to save an hour of walking. The trek starts with a hike through the Karakol Gorge, where we’ll ascend the Ala Kul Valley, passing through lush conifer forests until we reach Sirota Camp. This adventure offers a perfect mix of scenic beauty and physical challenge, ideal for outdoor enthusiasts.
After breakfast, we continue our trek further up the valley for about an hour and a half until we reach the shores of Ala Kul Lake, sitting at 3,532 meters. Goal achieved! We’ll spend around an hour at the lake before beginning the long descent back to Karakol. Ala Kul is one of the nicest alpine lakes with a characteristic turquoise waters.
Located in the heart of the Tian Shan Mountains, Jyrgalan Valley is a perfect destination for adventure enthusiasts. Hiking, horseback riding, mountain biking, and winter skiing are among the most popular activities in this breathtaking area.
Will enjoy enjoy an easy trek to the Kok Bel Waterfall, followed by another hike in the Grivorevka Gorge, before relaxing in a beautifully maintained yurt camp. This experience offers a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural immersion.
Today, we return to the capital city and visit the historic Burana Tower, a 9th-century minaret. Enjoy some time for shopping and relaxation before our farewell dinner. This day offers a perfect blend of cultural exploration and leisurely activities, making it a memorable end to our journey in Kyrgyzstan.
After breakfast, transfer to the airport for the flight back.
We have a 15 days program:
- Day 1: BISHKEK: Upon arrival, you will be met by your guide at the airport; transfer to the hotel and rest. After some rest, city sightseeing tour: Ala-Too Square, White House, Oak Park, statues of Manas, Kurmandjan Datka, Lenin and est, Art Gallery under the open sky, Victory square, Opera and Ballet Theatre, Osh Bazar (oriental market). Lunch and welcome dinner in a local restaurant, where you will taste the local cuisine.
Accommodation: Hotel.
Food: Dinner.
- Day 2: ALAMEDIN GORGE: After breakfast we will go to one of the most beautiful gorges of Kyrgyzstan, Alamedin. On this trip, you will have an easy hike to Alamedin Falls. Saturated bright greenery, the lulling rumble of a crystal-clear mountain river, the sound of the waterfall and fresh mountain air you will like it very much. Lunch picnic underway. Upon arrival to Bishkek free time.
Accommodation: Hotel.
Food: Breakfast,Lunch.
- Day 3: RAFTING: Today’s activity will be Rafting in the Chu River. Upon arrival at the appointed place, will put the wetsuits, and after a short instruction, we cover about 20 km by boat. After rafting, we continue our way to Chon Kemin. Accommodation in a hotel and lunch, free time till dinner to explore.
Accommodation: Hotel.
Food: Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner.
- Day 4: CHON KEMIN: Today we will hike on the Kalmak Ashuu Gorge in the Chon-Kemin valley. A 15km hike to explore the valley and it’s nature wonders. Will spend the night in a guest house.
Accommodation: Hotel.
Food: Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner.
- Day 5: GRIGOREVKA: Will start early in the morning after breakfast driving towards the beautiful Konorchek canyon were will stop for a hike. This rock formation looks like the Grand Canyon in North America. On the afternoon will arrive to Issyk-Kul lake, one of the largest alpine lakes in the world (just after Titicaca). It is known to be the beach of the country were all populations comes to relax on their beaches and swim in his crystal-clear waters. Will rest on the lake shoreside after the last hiking days.
Accommodation: Yurt.
Food: Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner.
- Day 6: KARAKOL: This morning will explore the Grigorievka (Chon Ak Suu) and Semenovka (Kyrchyn) gorges. Will take a picnic lunch to eat it along the way during the hike. Overnight in a hotel in Karakol.
Accommodation: Hotel.
Food: Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner.
- Day 7: SIROTA CAMP: The first day on the Ala Kul Lake trek is pretty easy. Once you enter the Karakol Nature Park, you continue following the trail for about 15 km on flat terrain. Most of the trail is a jeep track that is really easy to walk on. As you walk on, you go deeper into the Karakol Valley and the views are great. You’ll also be beside the Karakol River for the entire day. Sirota Camp is at 2950mts and will take around 5 hours to get there. Overnight in a yurt camp.
Accommodation: Yurt.
Food: Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner.
- Day 8: ALA KUL: After breakfast, we continue our trek further up the valley for about an hour and a half until we reach the shores of Ala Kul Lake, sitting at 3,532 meters. Goal achieved! We’ll spend around an hour at the lake before beginning the long descent back to Karakol. Ala Kul is one of the nicest alpine lakes with a characteristic turquoise waters.
Accommodation: Hotel.
Food: Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner.
- Day 9: JETY OGUZ: Morning transport to Jety Oguz (Seven Bulls), on arrival will start the hike towards the yurt camp. On the afternoon will hike up to Devichi Kosy waterfall.
Accommodation: Yurt.
Food: Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner.
- Day 10: BARSKOON: Today’s adventure takes us to Kajy Say, with several exciting stops along the way. Our first destination is the famous Barskoon Gorge, renowned for its beautiful waterfalls and as a site visited by the first cosmonaut, Yuri Gagarin. After a hike to the falls, we’ll enjoy a relaxing lunch on a picturesque grass plot. Our next stop is the Skazka (Fairy Tale) Canyon, where you can marvel at the stunning lunar landscapes and uniquely shaped mountains that resemble dragons and princesses. After lunch, weather permitting, we’ll either take a refreshing swim in the crystal-clear waters of Issyk Kul or unwind in a warm mineral bath at a nearby resort. The day ends with dinner and an overnight stay in Kajy Sai.
Accommodation: Yurt.
Food: Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner.
- Day 11: TASH RABAT: Tash Rabat ancient caravanserai is waiting for us today. It was built in the 12th century and was used until the end of the 14th century, located at an altitude of 3200 meters. After visiting, a walk along the beautiful valley of Kara Kuyun. Accommodation and dinner in a yurt camp.
Accommodation: Yurt.
Food: Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner.
- Day 12: PANDA PASS: After breakfast, we take our lunch-boxes, and accompanied by the tour guide, start our walk towards “Panda Pass”. The distance to this place is 13 km, on our way we will enjoy the beautiful views of the Kara Kuyun valley and take many photos. On the way back to the yurt camp, we do a stop on the bank of the Tash Rabat river and have lunch. Upon returning to the camp, some rest and dinner.
Accommodation: Yurt.
Food: Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner.
- Day 13: SON KUL: After breakfast transfer to Son Kul Lake, the second largest lake after Issyk Kul. It is located at an altitude of 3016 m. The lake is surrounded by a wide meadow (jailoo) and Tien Shan Mountains. Since ancient times, nomadic tribes living here used this land for summer pasture. Until now, shepherds use them to graze their livestock. Upon arrival to the yurt camp, lunch accommodation and rest. Before dinner a few options we can go for a walk to the petroglyphs, visit a family of a local shepherd and of course you have a chance to take a stunning photo of the sunset on Son Kul. Dinner in a yurt camp.
Accommodation: Yurt.
Food: Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner.
- Day 14: BISHKEK: Drive back to Bishkek. Our first stop is the ancient city Balasagun, one of the capitals of the Karakhanid’s state. After the excursion, lunch with a local family in the neighbouring village Don Aryk. Upon arrival to Bishkek accommodation in a hotel. Free time. Farewell dinner in a local restaurant.
Accommodation: Hotel.
Food: Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner.
- Day 15: RETURN: After breakfast, transfer to the airport for the flight back.
15d program TRIP PRICE:
from: 2.750€/person
The Cost Includes:
- Private transfer to and from the airport
- Accommodations as described in itinerary plan
- 4×4 private car for the entire route
- All meals according to itinerary plan
- Rafting, kayaking, rent bicycles, horseback riding and horseguide and yurt assembling show at at Son Kul lake
- Local guide the entire tour (english speaking)
- Entrance feed to all historical buildings and national parks
- Technical and material advice
The Cost Excludes:
- Round trip plane ticket to Kyrgyzstan (we can manage them)
- Alcoholic drinks
- All expenses of a personal nature
- Tips (Optional)
- Travel/cancellation insurance: optional, but recommended. (we can manage them).
- Everything not described in the “INCLUDED” section
WHAT'S INCLUDED TREKKING KYRGYZSTAN
The Cost Includes
- Private transfer to and from the airport
- Accommodations as described in itinerary plan
- 4x4 private car for the entire route
- All meals according to itinerary plan
- Local guide the entire tour (english speaking)
- Entrance feed to all historical buildings and national parks
- Technical and material advice
The Cost Excludes
- Round trip plane ticket to Kyrgyzstan (we can manage them)
- Alcoholic drinks
- All expenses of a personal nature
- Tips (Optional)
- Travel/cancellation insurance: optional, but recommended. (we can manage them).
- Everything not described in the “INCLUDED” section
DEPARTURES TREKKING KYRGYZSTAN
TRIP DATES | AVAILABILITY | PRICE | SPACE LEFT | |
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11/07/2025 - 21/07/2025 | 11 days program | 2.050€ |
Available
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18/07/2025 - 28/07/2025 | 15 days program | 2.750€ |
Available
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25/07/2025 - 04/08/2025 | 11 days program | 2.050€ |
Available
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08/08/2025 - 18/08/2025 | 11 days program | 2.750€ |
Available
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TOUR DETAILS TREKKING KYRGYZSTAN
“DISCOVER THE NATURAL WONDERS OF KYRGYZSTAN, KNOWN AS ASIAN PATAGONIA.”
Kyrgyzstan, a country that is a mix of cultures, with influences from China and the old Silk Road, and the years under the Soviet Republic have forged an open character among its people.
In the country we find many natural wonders that have not yet been exploited by Western tourism, as can happen in many regions of Nepal.
Surrounded by the Pamir and Tian Shan mountains, we find steppes that remind us of Mongolia, lush forests of Siberia, Swiss Alpine lakes…
All those natural wonders with a rural population with a nomadic tradition that lives in Yurts and travels on horseback. Get to know their traditions, culture and food.
We offer two trekking programs, the first lasting 11 days in the country with gentler routes and a second program lasting 15 days doing some more demanding trekkings such as the climb to lake Ala Kul, one of the Kyrgyzstan’s most beautiful lakes located in the Karakol region at 4,000 meters.
We have our local team in the region that has been living there for many years and will offer you the best service to enjoy Kyrgyzstan with all the security guarantees.
If you have any other travel idea in the region, do not hesitate to tell us and we will make it possible: Climb to Lenin Peak at +7,000m? Ski touring? Combine a trip to Kyrgyzstan with Uzbekistan and/or Tajikistan and/or Turkmenistan?
“Get to know this natural wonder of a country, Kyrgyzstan, not yet exploited by Western tourism”
You need a minimum level that allows you to do a mountain route of 1200m of elevation gain in one day. It is not a demanding route and days are interspersed with short walks to guarantee good acclimatization and good recovery from the days of trekking. During the route we can carry a small backpack with the things we will use during the day. The porters will transport our backpacks to the next lodge.
Our trainer Mr. Pablo Ral, graduate in Physical Activity Sciences, Master in High Performance, Chilean Ski Mountaineering Coach and specialist in endurance sports… can make you a specific personal training plan for this trip.
- Standard training plan (one-time payment): 99€ (Fill out online form, 30 min personal interview (to adjust the plan and resolve doubts), Receive your personalized plan)
- Premium training plan (monthly): 130€ (Fill out online form, 1h personal interview (to adjust the plan and resolve doubts), Receive your personalized plan. Weekly monitoring of your progression and monthly readjustment of the training plan)
You can request your training plan at the time of booking your trip or later. (Standard training plans are valid for a maximum of 3 months)
FUNCTIONAL CLOTHING:
● Gore-Tex or waterproof and breathable jacket
● Waterproof rain pants
● Warm jacket – down jacket or preferably primaloft (as they can handle water)
● Lightweight fleece lining
● Breathable, easy-drying short-sleeved T-Shirts
● Stretch pants, a little thicker, days or nights colder
● Trekking pants
● Shorts
● Thermal pants and t-shirt set
● Undergarments (non-cotton recommended)
● Swimwear
HEAD
● Lightweight running cap
● Wool beanie
● Neck Gaiter
● Sunglasses.
HANDS
● Thin fleece gloves.
● Walking poles (Recomended)
FEET
● Thin socks (non cotton)
● Thick, warm socks for the night (non cotton)
● Lightweight trail shoes or hiking boots (what you usually wear in mountain)
● Hiking sandals with heel strap (Optional)
BACKPACKS
● Mountain backpack 20/35 liters
● Rain backpack cover
● Small travel bag (for documentation and wallet)
● Duffle bag (better than suitcase)
LODGE MATERIAL
● Sleeping bag (3 seasons)
● Hut sleeping bag made of silk (optional)
● Earplugs
ACCESSORIES
● Headlamp and battery or spare batteries
● Sun cream, lip cocoa and after sun
● Mosquito repellent.
EAT/DRINK:
● Hydration System minimum 1l (Camelbag, canteen or flexible bottle)
● Thermo Flask (optional)
● Snacks, nuts, gels, hydration and sufficient power bars, protein bars, trail mix, magnesium tablets and recovery supplements
TRAVEL EQUIPMENT
● Casual clothes
● ID or passport, Visa, cash, insurance documentation, vaccination card.
● Microfiber towel
● First aid and medication kit
● Thermal blanket
● Mobile phone and watch with the route track
● Powerbank, camera, charging cables, headphones, selfie stick…
Food:
The Itinerary explains what meals are included each day according to the program. If you have allergies or preferences, let us know on the registration form and we will take it into account.
We always recommend that you bring your own energy bars, nuts… so that you can eat while doing the activities.
Accommodation:
The program provides accommodation in shared rooms. If you want a single room, please indicate this at the time of booking.
We believe solo travelers should not have to pay more to travel so our group trips are designed for shared accommodation and do not involve a single supplement. Single travelers joining group trips are paired in twin or multi-share accommodation with someone of the same sex for the duration of the trip. Some of our Independent trips are designed differently and solo travelers on these itineraries must pay the single trip price.
The trip prices are for a minimum group of 4 pax, in case of smaller or private groups contact us for the best offer.
In case you wish that we can look for the best flight combination tickets from your nearest airport to the destination you can add this service in “extra services” on the checkout before booking the trip and will give you the best proposal beforehand and once accepted buy it for you. This service includes monitor the flight prices over time to get the best deal when prices are low and check in of your flight. The administrative fee for this service is 35€ + the flights cost that will be invoice to you afterwards.
We offer you a 5% discount on your IATI travel insurance. The discount is just valid if you buy the travel insurance policy after clicking on the link.
In case you wish that we can look for the best travel insurance that covers the trip destination/activity with your nationality. You can add this service in “extra services” on the checkout before booking the trip and will give you the best proposal beforehand and once accepted buy it for you. The administrative fee for this service is 15€ + the insurance cost that will be invoice to you afterwards.
The client is informed that B4Experience will issue the trip without including a cancellation, repatriation or accident policy, unless it is explicitly included in the trip contract and paid in the first payment. During the trip contracting, you will be offered how to contract it if you wish.
Rescue insurance: Recommended / Not mandatory
Rescue insurance is highly recommended on all active trips. It must be taken into consideration that these insurance policies are specific for each type of activity (hiking, climbing…)
The user is informed that the GUARANTEE COMPANY that covers the risks of contractual liability and guarantee against insolvency is MARKEL INSURANCE SE
Visas, and Entry Requirements
Certainly! It is important to have a valid passport with at least 6 months validity when traveling to any country.
To know the specific visa requirements for your trip, it is recommended to contact your local embassy or consulate, or consult with your travel agent. Remember that it is your responsibility to ensure you have the correct travel documentation. Visa requirements can vary based on your nationality and your destination. While we strive to keep our information updated, visa rules can change unexpectedly. Therefore, it is crucial that you verify the information yourself and understand that you are accountable for meeting your own visa requirements.
Vaccines
For each trip, clients are solely responsible for having the mandatory and/or recommended vaccines required in each region or country. Consult with your doctor to have all vaccinations before the start of the trip.
The client can take out trip cancellation insurance to be able to obtain payment of the entire amount paid (according to its conditions).
The end user may withdraw from the contracted trip, having the right to a refund of the amounts paid, except for the indicated penalties, but must also satisfy the Agency in the amounts indicated below once the trip has been confirmed. If it is not carried out due to not reaching the minimum necessary places, the client can save the credit for future trips or request a full refund of the reservation.
Cancellation Policy 3:
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- FULL REFUND UP TO 24H AFTER PURCHASE
- Up to 60 days before the trip 100% refund of the trip amount.
- Up to 45 days before the trip Refund of 50% of the trip amount.
- For terms shorter than those described in the cancellation policy, the amount already paid will not be paid.
- *€250 management fees apply
* Cancellation fees will not be paid for reservations already issued. If there are other non-refundable expenses already issued, these will not be paid either and will be deducted from the amount to be paid.
* The cost of cancellation of issued flights is 100% of the amount.
EXEMPTION OF LIABILITY AND ASSUMPTION OF RISK
B4Experience offers active trips for different sports and Outdoor activities, as well as information related to these activities through our web platform www.b4experience.com and other channels.
The practice of any activity in nature carries a risk for those who do it, with most of these activities being considered high-risk sports. Each one must know and apply their limits and be aware that regardless of the technical training and physical level one has, their practice can lead to accidents or even death.
The in-person activities and trips offered by B4Experience are carried out on land and activities that may inherently involve risks for those who carry them out and thus clients are informed that they contract them.
DOSSIER DISCLAIMER:
The information in this trip details document has been compiled with care and is provided in good faith. However it is subject to change, and does not form part of the contract between the client and the operator. The itinerary featured is correct at time of printing. It may differ slightly to the one in the brochure. Occasionally our itineraries change as we make improvements that stem from past travellers, comments and our own research. Sometimes it can be a small change like adding an extra meal along the itinerary. Sometimes the change may result in us altering the tour for the coming year. Ultimately, our goal is to provide you with the most rewarding experience. Please note that our brochure is usually released in November each year. If you have booked from the previous brochure you may find there have been some changes to the itinerary.
VERY IMPORTANT: Please ensure that you print/ download a final copy of your Trip Details to review a couple of days prior to travel, in case there have been changes that affect your plans.
ITINERARY DISCLAIMER:
While it is our intention to adhere to the route described below, there is a certain amount of flexibility built into the itinerary and on occasion it may be necessary, or desirable to make alterations. The itinerary is brief, as we never know exactly where our journey will take us. Due to our style of travel and the regions we visit, travel can be unpredictable. The Trip Details document is a general guide to the tour and region and any mention of specific destinations or wildlife is by no means a guarantee that they will be visited or encountered. On all Outdoor trips, the routes will be adjusted depending on the weather, the level of the group participants and the risks assessed by the guide/trip leader.
Additionally, any travel times listed are approximations only and subject to vary due to local circumstances.
OUR TRAVEL EXPERTS TREKKING KYRGYZSTAN
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