Lake Ala-Kol (trekking)

Tucked away in the heart of the Tien Shan, Lake Alakol is a true gem offering a unique experience for nature lovers and adventurers. Situated at an altitude of approximately 3,530 meters above sea level, this stunning alpine lake impresses with its vibrant turquoise color and mesmerizing mountain scenery.

Departure from Bishkek to Karakol. On the way we will visit the fascinating Bum Gorge and have breakfast at a national roadside cafe, where we will try traditional puff pastry (kattama) with tea from a Russian samovar. Next - Aksai Canyon and the impressive Barskun Waterfalls, where we will stop for lunch. After that, we will explore the Jeti-Oguz area (also known among the locals as the “Seven Bulls” mountain). Upon arrival in Karakol, we will have dinner and spend the night in a cozy guest house.

After breakfast, we set off on a military caravan to the Karakol Gorge. We will begin our hike to Lake Ala-Kol and set up camp right on the shore of the lake in the late afternoon. We will spend the night in tents under the starry sky.

Early rise to the Ala-Kol pass, from where a panoramic view of the lake opens. Then we will descend to the picturesque Altyn-Arashan valley and spend the night in a yurt camp.Early rise to the Ala-Kol pass, from where a panoramic view of the lake opens. Then we will descend to the picturesque Altyn-Arashan valley and spend the night in a yurt camp.

We start the morning with breakfast and a dip in the hot springs. Then we return to Karakol for our favorite loaf of bread. After a hearty lunch, we stroll around the city and see local attractions, such as the Dungan mosque, built without a single nail. In the evening, we head to Cholpon-Ata, where we spend the night in a cozy guest house.

We will swim in Lake Issyk-Kul and explore the nearby picturesque Semenovskoye and Grigoryevskoye gorges. When we return to Bishkek.