9-Day Trekking Adventure through Jyrgalan, Karakol, and Ala-Kol Lake

Period: July – September

Overview

Discover Kyrgyzstan's breathtaking landscapes over 9 days, trekking from Jyrgalan to Karakol and across the iconic Ala-Kol Lake. This adventure includes mountain passes, alpine lakes, and relaxing in hot springs, with nights spent in yurts and guesthouses.

Epic Mountain Views

Hike through impressive mountain ranges and cross rugged passes offering unparalleled views of Kyrgyzstan's majestic peaks.

Challenging Trekking Routes

Conquer diverse terrains, from steep ascents to lush valleys, as you hike through remote landscapes rarely seen by outsiders.

Unique Wilderness Experiences

Camp near serene lakes, explore remote valleys, and discover the untouched beauty of Kyrgyzstan's natural landscapes.

Destination:

Jyrgalan, Boz-Uchuk Lakes, Jergez, Almaluu, Karakol Valley, Alakol Lake, Altyn Arashan Hotsprings, Telety, Jeti-Oguz. Eastern Issyk-Kul Region, Kyrgyzstan.

Duration:

9 days / 8 nights

Accommodation type:

Yurt camps, tents, guesthouse

Trekking distance:

120 km

Max Elevation / Min Elevation:

3900 meters / 1700 meters

Season:

July – Early September

Difficulty:

Difficult

Start/End Point:

Karakol, Kyrgyzstan

Meals Options and Customization:

We offer flexible meal options to suit your dietary preferences, ensuring you stay energized throughout the trek. Let us know your requirements when booking, and we’ll accommodate them.

Transportation Services:

If you need private transfers or additional transportation within Kyrgyzstan after your tour, simply let us know when booking, and we’ll make the necessary arrangements.

Itinerary

Day 1

Karakol - Jyrgalan - TerimTor

Transfer from Karakol to Jyrgalan ~1 hour (60km).

Starting our 9 days trekking.

Overnight in the yurt camp (Elevation: 3450m).
Overnight in Yurt camp at 3200m.

DAY FACTS

Accommodation type:

Overnight in yurts

Meals:

Lunch and dinner

Trekking distance:

14 km

Day 2

Terim-Tor - Boz Uchuk lakes

Breakfast. Today we have two passes. First one is Bulak-Ashuu 3450m.

After climb from the valley floor to the 3363m Boz-Uchuk pass.

Stop along the way for lunch.

Our camp will be located next to the Bozuchuk lakes which is also in the same altitude with a pass. If we've arrived early enough to still have some daylight, the northern tip of the stubby ridge that marks the western boundary of the valley below offers fine sunset views facing back towards the Issyk-Kol basin, though many find it hard to tear themselves away from the Boz-Uchuk Lakes.

Overnight in the yurt camp (Elevation: 3450m).

DAY FACTS

Accommodation type:

Overnight in the yurt camp

Meals:

Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Trekking distance:

15 km

Day 3

Bozuchuk lakes – Jergez gorge

Early breakfast because of the long day. This day's route starts by crossing the small ridge immediately West of camp and descending to the main valley floor below.

We will follow the trail uphill as it parallels the river for around 2km before crossing and heading more steeply uphill to the obvious pass in the distance at 3524m.

From the top, the Jergez valley spreads out below and an excellent view of Tashtanbek Tor Bashi peak dominates the southern horizon. Descend down to the camp and lunch. After lunch we hike to the waterfall and back. Overnight and dinner in yurts.

DAY FACTS

Accommodation type:

Overnight in the yurt camp

Meals:

Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Trekking distance:

7 km+ 5 km to waterfall and back

Day 4

Jergez gorge – Almaluu gorge

From the camp, the trail continues on towards the first Ailanysh Lake (at 3445m), already visible to the SW across the valley, via the Jergez river and up the first stretch of the Ailanysh valley. The climb steepens past the second lake, up to the Ailanysh Pass at 3676m. About 5 km into this final descent of the day, as the trail curves to just above the main branch of the Ak-Suu river, we can see unbelievable views down towards an unnamed 3855m peak and the blinding snowy whiteness of the Ak-Suu Wall's glaciated slopes. Overnight in yurts (Elevation: 2750m).

DAY FACTS

Accommodation type:

Overnight in the yurt camp

Meals:

Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Trekking distance:

11 km

Day 5

Almaluu – Altyn Arashan gorge

Today's a relatively easy day, distance-wise, but it begins with an 800m+ climb Ortok pass (3650 m). The trail continues along the East side of the river to the main Ak-Suu Arashan valley. After lunch small walking to the wild hot springs and taking a dip in the hot springs that have made the valley locally famous since before the Soviet era. Rest up tonight, because tomorrow is a long but rewarding uphill day. Overnight guesthouse (Elevation: 2500m).

DAY FACTS

Accommodation type:

Overnight in the yurt/guesthouse

Meals:

Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Trekking distance:

14 km

Day 6

Altyn Arashan – Ala Kul lake

Breakfast. Today we go to cross another pass which called Ala-Kul pass. From Altyn Arashan, cross the large bridge over to the West side of the Ak-Suu River and continue South for just over 2km to the first large valley that rises off to the Southwest.

From the turn out of the Arashan valley it's around an 8km uphill that rises from 2570m at the valley floor to 3906m at the Ala-Kol North pass, with the last 200m of elevation feeling nearly-vertical as it rises through loose scree over which two obvious paths have been stomped out by the multitude of hikers that hike up Issyk-Kol's most popular trekking route. The views from the top of the pass are something sublime, though, taking in an incredible panorama of 5000m+ peaks and the breadth of Ala-Kol lake.In this day we will camp next to the Ala-Kul lake. Overnight in the tent (Elevation: 3550m).

DAY FACTS

Accommodation type:

Overnight in the tent

Meals:

Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Trekking distance:

15 km

Day 7

Ala Kul – Karakol gorge

From the camp, we will continue to the west. Most tourists will continue downhill here to the Karakol Valley via the Sirota hut, but loop instead of around the curve of the lake along a small path which is visible from afar that climbs from the lake along a rockfall to the 3781m Panorama Pass. From East to West across the horizon the most obvious summits are Djigit Peak (5178m), Karakol Peak (5216m), and Öguz-Bashi Peak (5126m).

Expect around two hours for the full 4km of hiking, more if you're generally slow on downhills. Your knees will probably need a break by the time you've reached the valley, so break for lunch here and rebuild your strength for the next climb. Our camp will be located at 3200 m.

DAY FACTS

Accommodation type:

Overnight in the yurt camp

Meals:

Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Trekking distance:

15 km

Day 8

Karakol gorge – Teleti camp

After breakfast head up the valley around 3km to where a path branches up the Telety Valley.The valley is spoiled for choice of campsites, but for views it's hard to beat a long flat area about halfway up the valley where the river broadens briefly, with great panoramas of Telety to the Southwest and back towards Ala-Kol's passes to the Northeast. we will pack up camp and head up the valley on the week-long trek's last uphill section – to the 3792m Telety Pass it's less than two easy hours (though the way does get a little steeper on that last bit), continuing down another hour and a half to the river valley on the far side (around 7km from camp to pass to river). We walk down to the valley and camp not far from the river. Overnight in the tent (Elevation: 3100 m).

DAY FACTS

Accommodation type:

Overnight in the yurt camp

Meals:

Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Trekking distance:

14 km

Day 9

Teleti camp - Karakol town

Walking down to Djeti-Oguz valley. We will have lunch in yurts and make small hiking to the waterfall named Girl’s braids. Transport will take us from Kok-Jaik pasture to Karakol town. Overnight in the guest house.

DAY FACTS

Meals:

Breakfast and Lunch

Trekking distance:

10 km

Included:

Transport during the trek
Accommodation (yurt or tent, sleeping bag, mat)
Guide (assistance over 7 people)
Full board meals
Entrance fees to national parks
Hot springs in Altyn Arashan

Not Included:

Insurance
Alcohol
Porters for luggage

Useful information

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.

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.

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.

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.

FAQ

What type of accommodation is provided during the trek?

Accommodations include cozy guesthouses in the villages and towns, yurt camps, and camping near Lake Ala-Kol. There is no need to carry tents, as all overnight places will be provided by yurt camps.

What should I pack for the trek?

For your trekking adventure, we recommend traveling with a soft material bag for your main luggage and a small daypack for essentials. Ensure your bags are of good quality, with strong straps and secure zippers. Since temperatures can vary widely (from 0 to 30 degrees Celsius), layering your clothing is essential. You’ll likely be adjusting layers frequently throughout the day, especially while walking.

Am I fit enough?

To determine if you’re fit enough for the Lake Ala-Kol trek, consider the following:

1.Physical Fitness: The trek involves moderate to challenging terrain with steep ascents and descents. A good level of cardiovascular fitness is important. If you regularly engage in activities like hiking, running, or cycling, you should be well-prepared.
2.Duration of Trekking: You will be trekking for several hours each day (5-6 hours on average), so it’s helpful to have endurance for sustained activity.
3.Altitude: The trek reaches elevations up to 3,650 meters (11,975 feet). If you have not hiked at high altitudes before, it may take some acclimatization, and you should be aware of altitude sickness symptoms.
4.Preparation: Prior training can help. Incorporate hikes with elevation gain into your routine, and practice carrying a daypack.
5.Consult a Professional: If you have any health concerns or pre-existing conditions, consider consulting a healthcare provider before undertaking the trek.
If you regularly engage in physical activity and are comfortable with longer hikes, you should be fit enough for this adventure!

Are meals included in the trekking package?

Yes, all meals are provided, including breakfasts, dinners, and lunch boxes throughout the trek.

Water drink?

Staying hydrated is crucial during the trek to Lake Ala-Kol. Here are some important points about drinking water:

1.Water Availability: Fresh water is usually available from natural sources along the trekking route. Make sure to refill your water bottles whenever you have the opportunity.
2.Water Purification: It’s advisable to purify water from natural sources to prevent illness. You can use water purification tablets, filters, or boil water to ensure it’s safe to drink.
3.Hydration Tips:
- Drink Regularly: Don’t wait until you’re thirsty to drink water. Aim to drink small amounts regularly throughout the day.
- Monitor Color: Check the color of your urine; pale yellow indicates good hydration, while dark yellow may indicate dehydration.
- Electrolytes: Consider bringing electrolyte tablets or powders to add to your water, especially if you’re sweating a lot.
4.Daily Intake: Aim to drink at least 2-3 liters of water daily, more if you’re sweating heavily or if the weather is hot.
5.During the Trek: Carry a refillable water bottle or hydration system in your daypack for easy access while hiking.v By staying well-hydrated, you’ll maintain your energy levels and enjoy your trekking experience more!

Price?

The price varies based on the number of participants and the season. For detailed information, please contact us directly.

Looking for a Tailored Tour?

At Kyrgyz Life, we specialize in organizing personalized trips to Kyrgyzstan and other Central Asian countries. Whether you're seeking adventure, cultural experiences, or a relaxing getaway, our dedicated team is here to make your dream trip a reality. Contact us today to start planning your perfect journey!