9-Day Merzbacher Lake & Altyn Arashan Trek – Ultimate Kyrgyzstan Adventure
Period: May - October
Overview
Explore Kyrgyzstan’s wild beauty on a 9-day trek to Merzbacher Lake and Altyn Arashan. Experience glacier trekking, river crossings, and high-altitude hiking through the Terskey-Ala-Too mountains. Join this unforgettable adventure today!
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Explore the Mysterious Merzbacher Lake & Engilchek Glacier
- Trek through one of Kyrgyzstan’s most remote landscapes, surrounded by towering peaks, glaciers, and the ever-changing Merzbacher Lake.
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Relax in Altyn Arashan’s Natural Hot Springs
- Unwind in the famous thermal baths while soaking in breathtaking views of Peak Palatka and the surrounding alpine scenery.
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Conquer the Ala-Kol Pass (3,860m) & Discover Ala-Kol Lake
- Hike to one of Central Asia’s most beautiful high-altitude lakes, with turquoise waters set against rugged mountain backdrops.
Gallery
Detailed Tour Information about the trek
Begin your journey with a scenic drive from Karakol over the Chon-Ashuu Pass (3,830m), passing through alpine forests, deep gorges, and the vast landscapes of the Terskey-Ala-Too range. Arrive at At-Jailoo, set up camp, and enjoy a hearty dinner under the stars.
Transport: Off-road vehicle (5-6 hrs)
Residence: Tent
Meals: Lunch, Dinner
Transport: Off-road vehicle (5-6 hrs)
Residence: Tent
Meals: Lunch, Dinner
Trek along the Engilchek River, crossing At-Jailoo (by foot or horseback, depending on river levels). Enjoy a lunch stop by a waterfall before continuing to Iva Camp, set against the icy backdrop of Nansen Peak (5,697m).
Trekking Distance: 18km (6-7 hrs)
Elevation Gain/Loss: +650m / -450m
Residence: Tent
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Trekking Distance: 18km (6-7 hrs)
Elevation Gain/Loss: +650m / -450m
Residence: Tent
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
A challenging trek along the moraine of the Engilchek Glacier, passing crystal-clear glacial lakes and rugged mountain terrain. Overnight at Glina Camp.
Trekking Distance: 10km (4-5 hrs)
Elevation Gain/Loss: +470m / -200m
Residence: Tent
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Trekking Distance: 10km (4-5 hrs)
Elevation Gain/Loss: +470m / -200m
Residence: Tent
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Trek to Merzbacher Glade (3,600m), where German explorer Gottfried Merzbacher first discovered the mysterious disappearing lake. Take in breathtaking views of Khan-Tengri (7,010m) and Victory Peak (7,439m).
Trekking Distance: 15km (3-4 hrs)
Elevation Gain/Loss: +600m / -320m
Residence: Tent
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Trekking Distance: 15km (3-4 hrs)
Elevation Gain/Loss: +600m / -320m
Residence: Tent
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Retrace your steps back to Iva Camp, enjoying glacier views and, on sunny days, the chance to swim in a glacial lake.
Trekking Distance: 18km (4-5 hrs)
Elevation Gain/Loss: +300m / -900m
Residence: Tent
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Trekking Distance: 18km (4-5 hrs)
Elevation Gain/Loss: +300m / -900m
Residence: Tent
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Hike back to At-Jailoo, then take an off-road vehicle to Karakol.
Trekking Distance: 18km (4-5 hrs)
Elevation Gain/Loss: +450m / -650m
Residence: Not included
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Trekking Distance: 18km (4-5 hrs)
Elevation Gain/Loss: +450m / -650m
Residence: Not included
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Transfer to Ak-Suu Village and begin trekking through lush valleys to Altyn Arashan (2,500m). Relax in natural hot springs with stunning views of Peak Palatka (4,700m).
Trekking Distance: 15-17km (4-5 hrs)
Elevation Gain/Loss: +600m / -100m
Residence: Guesthouse or Yurt Camp
Meals: Lunch, Dinner
Trekking Distance: 15-17km (4-5 hrs)
Elevation Gain/Loss: +600m / -100m
Residence: Guesthouse or Yurt Camp
Meals: Lunch, Dinner
A challenging full-day trek to Ala-Kol Lake (3,500m), crossing Ala-Kol Pass (3,860m) for breathtaking panoramic views. Return to Altyn Arashan for another hot spring soak.
Trekking Distance: 25km (8-10 hrs)
Elevation Gain/Loss: +1,350m / -1,350m
Residence: Guesthouse or Yurt Camp
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Trekking Distance: 25km (8-10 hrs)
Elevation Gain/Loss: +1,350m / -1,350m
Residence: Guesthouse or Yurt Camp
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Descend through the Arashan Valley, passing the "Swallow’s Nest" hot spring before reaching Ak-Suu. Drive back to Karakol, concluding the trek.
Trekking Distance: 15km (3.5-4 hrs)
Elevation Gain/Loss: +100m / -600m
Residence: Not included
Meals: Breakfast
Trekking Distance: 15km (3.5-4 hrs)
Elevation Gain/Loss: +100m / -600m
Residence: Not included
Meals: Breakfast
Tour Overview: 9-Day Merzbacher Lake & Altyn Arashan Adventure
Destination: At-Jailoo, Engilchek Valley, Merzbacher Lake, Altyn Arashan Hot Springs, Ala-Kol Lake, Terskey-Ala-Too Mountains, Eastern Issyk-Kul Region, Kyrgyzstan.
Duration: 9 days / 8 nights
Accommodation type: Yurt camps, tents, guesthouse
Trekking distance: 130 km
Max Elevation / Min Elevation: 3,860 meters / 1,700 meters
Season: May – October
Difficulty: Moderate to Difficult
Start/End Point: Karakol, Kyrgyzstan
Meals Options and Customization:
We provide flexible meal options to cater to your dietary needs, ensuring you stay fueled for the journey. Let us know your preferences when booking, and we’ll accommodate them.
Transportation Services:
If you require private transfers or additional transportation within Kyrgyzstan before or after your trek, let us know when booking, and we’ll arrange everything for you.
Destination: At-Jailoo, Engilchek Valley, Merzbacher Lake, Altyn Arashan Hot Springs, Ala-Kol Lake, Terskey-Ala-Too Mountains, Eastern Issyk-Kul Region, Kyrgyzstan.
Duration: 9 days / 8 nights
Accommodation type: Yurt camps, tents, guesthouse
Trekking distance: 130 km
Max Elevation / Min Elevation: 3,860 meters / 1,700 meters
Season: May – October
Difficulty: Moderate to Difficult
Start/End Point: Karakol, Kyrgyzstan
Meals Options and Customization:
We provide flexible meal options to cater to your dietary needs, ensuring you stay fueled for the journey. Let us know your preferences when booking, and we’ll accommodate them.
Transportation Services:
If you require private transfers or additional transportation within Kyrgyzstan before or after your trek, let us know when booking, and we’ll arrange everything for you.
- Important information about pricesThe price per person decreases as more participants join the tour. Final pricing depends on the total group size.
Deposit: 100 USD per person is required to secure your spot, whether you're booking as an individual or as part of a group. The remaining balance will be calculated based on the total group size and must be paid in our office before departure. As our pricing depends on group size, the final cost per person will decrease as more participants join the tour. Any overpaid amount will be adjusted or refunded accordingly before the tour begins. - Group size / Total price per group:From 1146 USD per person
- Included:
- Guide service
- Guide assistant (assistance over 7 people)
- Cook
- Porters 1:1
- Full board meals
- Transport during the trek
- Accommodation (yurt or tent, sleeping bag, mat)
- Dinning tent
- Guide (assistance over 7 people)
- Full board meals
- Horses for crossing river
- Entrance fees to national parks
- Border permit
- Hot springs in Altyn Arashan
- Excluded:
- Insurance
- Alcohol
- Horse riding
- Additional services (not mentioned in the program)
What to Take With You
Clothing
- Layered Clothing: To adjust to varying temperatures, bring lightweight, breathable layers for daytime activities and warmer layers for cooler evenings.
- Waterproof Jacket and Pants: Essential for protection against rain and wind.
- Comfortable Hiking Boots: Sturdy, well-fitting boots with good ankle support are crucial for trekking and hiking.
- Warm Hat and Gloves: Even in summer, higher altitudes can be chilly.
- Swimwear: For potential swimming opportunities in lakes or hot springs.
Gear
Daypack: A comfortable backpack for carrying essentials during daily activities.
Sleeping Bag: While provided at camps, you may prefer your own for added comfort.
Headlamp or Flashlight: For use in yurts, tents, and during night activities.
Reusable Water Bottle: Stay hydrated and reduce plastic waste.
Sleeping Bag: While provided at camps, you may prefer your own for added comfort.
Headlamp or Flashlight: For use in yurts, tents, and during night activities.
Reusable Water Bottle: Stay hydrated and reduce plastic waste.
Personal Items
Sunscreen and Lip Balm: High SPF to protect against strong mountain sun.
Sunglasses: With UV protection.
Personal Medications: Ensure you have enough for the entire trip.
Toiletries: Biodegradable soap, toothpaste, toothbrush, and other personal hygiene items.
Sunglasses: With UV protection.
Personal Medications: Ensure you have enough for the entire trip.
Toiletries: Biodegradable soap, toothpaste, toothbrush, and other personal hygiene items.
Documents and Money
Passport and Visa (if required): Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your travel dates.
Travel Insurance: Including coverage for trekking and horseback riding.
Travel Insurance: Including coverage for trekking and horseback riding.
Miscellaneous
Camera and Batteries: To capture the stunning landscapes and memorable moments.
Power Bank: To charge your electronic devices when outlets are unavailable.
Notebook and Pen: For journaling your experiences or jotting down important information.
Power Bank: To charge your electronic devices when outlets are unavailable.
Notebook and Pen: For journaling your experiences or jotting down important information.
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WITH US!
About Us
At Kyrgyz Life Travel Company, we bring you closer to the wonders of Kyrgyzstan. Our expert team designs personalized adventures that let you experience the country’s stunning landscapes, rich culture, and thrilling activities. Whether you're trekking through mountains or discovering local traditions, we ensure each journey is memorable and enjoyable. Join us and discover the heart of Kyrgyzstan.
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