4-Day Trek: Karakol Gorge to Altyn-Arashan via Karakol peak
4-Day Trek: Karakol Gorge to Altyn-Arashan via Karakol peak
Is this trip for me?
Starting from $485 per person (Fixed Date Group Tour)
Minimum 3 participants required to confirm departure.
Private departures available — check Dates & Prices.
Trip Overview
This 4-day trek covers the central section of the Ak-Suu Transverse—one of Kyrgyzstan’s most scenic high-mountain routes. Starting in Karakol, the first day includes a trek to Karakol Peak with stunning alpine views and an overnight stay at an alpine camp in a yurt. The trail then passes through Karakol Gorge, alpine meadows, the turquoise Ala-Kul Lake (3,550 m), and over the Ala-Kul Pass (3,906 m), before descending to the natural hot springs of Altyn-Arashan. The trek ends in Ak-Suu Village with a short transfer back to Karakol. Overnight stays in tents and yurts provide an authentic Kyrgyz trekking experience.
Route: Karakol → Karakol Peak → Karakol Gorge → Ala-Kul Lake → Ala-Kul Pass → Altyn-Arashan → Ak-Suu → Karakol
Duration: 4 days / 3 nights
Accommodation: Tents, yurts
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner included
Main Highlights
Mountain Passes:
• Ala-Kul Pass (3,906 m) — Challenging alpine pass with panoramic views
• 1 additional intermediate pass in the Karakol Gorge/Alpine section
Key Lakes:
• Ala-Kul Lake (3,550 m) — Turquoise glacial lake surrounded by 5,000+ m peaks
• Small alpine tarns along the route
Route Highlights:
• Trek to Karakol Peak on Day 1 with alpine camp experience
• Trek through Karakol Gorge, alpine meadows, and glacial valleys
• Camp beside Ala-Kul Lake and overnight in yurts/tents
• Soak in natural hot springs at Altyn-Arashan
• Panoramic vistas of Terskey Ala-Too and 5,000+ m peaks
• Small-group trekking with a professional English-speaking guid
Requirements
Basic physical readiness recommended for high-altitude trekking
Proper hiking boots, warm layers, waterproof clothing
Ability to walk 5–8 hours per day on varied mountain terrain
Travel insurance covering trekking activities
Highlights
Karakol to Karakol Peak & Alpine Camp
We depart from Karakol in the morning and drive about 1.5 hours to the trailhead. After picking up our lunch bags, we trek 7 km to the foot of Karakol Peak (approx. 3–3.5 hours).
We enjoy lunch at the peak, spend about 1 hour taking in the views, then descend back to the alpine camp (2 hours). In the evening, we have a campfire, group briefing for the next day, and overnight in a yurt.
Trekking distance: 14 km
Duration: 5–6 h
Accommodation: Yurt
Meals: L / D
Alpine Camp → Ala-Kul Lake
After breakfast, begin a steady ascent from 2,500 m toward Ala-Kul Lake. Rest at a small mountain hut before continuing the climb. Upon reaching the turquoise lake at 3,550 m, explore the area and set up camp. Depending on conditions, optional boating/kayaking may be possible.
Distance: 12 km
Elevation: +1,100 / -100 m
Duration: 6–7 h
Accommodation: Tent
Meals: B / L / D
Climb to Ala-Kul Pass (3,906 m) for sweeping views of the lake and Terskey Ala-Too mountains. Descend into the Altyn-Arashan Valley (2,500 m) and enjoy its natural hot springs.
Distance: 15 km
Elevation: +350 m / -1,400 m
Accommodation: Yurt camp
Meals: B / L / D
Altyn-Arashan → Ak-Suu Village → Karakol
Walk through the scenic valley to Ak-Suu Village (14 km / ~3–3.5 h). Transfer back to Karakol (~30 min). Trip ends upon arrival.
Distance: 14 km
Accommodation: Not included
Meals: B / L
Transfer: 30 min
No map available.
| Amount of people | Per person in KGS | Group KGS |
| 1 | 77110 | 77110 |
| 2 | 50710 | 101420 |
| 3 | 41910 | 125730 |
| 4 | 37510 | 150040 |
| 5 | 34870 | 174350 |
| 6 | 33110 | 198660 |
| 7 | 36410 | 254870 |
| 8 | 34623 | 276980 |
| 9 | 33232 | 299090 |
| 10 | 32120 | 321200 |
| 11 | 31210 | 343310 |
| 12 | 30452 | 365420 |
| 13 | 29810 | 387530 |
| 14 | 29260 | 409640 |
| 15 | 28783 | 431750 |
| 16 | 28366 | 453860 |
| 17 | 27998 | 475970 |
| 18 | 27671 | 498080 |
| 19 | 27378 | 520190 |
| 20 | 27115 | 542300 |
Included
- All accommodation
- 3 times meal
- English speaking guide
- All transportation
- Hot springs
- All park enty fees
- Sleeping bag, mattress
- Starlink internet
- Extra guide if over 7
Not Included
- Entrance fees
- Alcohol
- Fly ticket
- WNG tickets
- Insurance
- Horse riding
- Transfers
- Assistance
- Horses
- Porters for luggage
- Personal expenses
- Single supplement
- Shower or sauna in camps
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.