Kyrgyzstan & the Tian Shan Mountains
Kyrgyzstan & the Tian Shan Mountains
15 Days Starting in Bishkek and ending in
Visiting: Kyrgyzstan
Tour Overview
The celestial Tian Shan Mountains take up much of the small republic of Kyrgyzstan and provide a stunning landscape of eternal snows and alpine meadows. Explore this culturally rich country meeting local herders to learn about their traditional way of life, and discover this mysterious land where people's lives are shaped by breathtaking sheer peaks, swift horses and majestic glaciers in a very unique interpretation of lands forgotten by time. Explore the lonely beauty of Son-Kul and Issyk-Kul Lakes situated on a treeless mountain plateau with its verdant meadows used by shepherds in the summer months. If you are looking for an unforgettable experience exploring a remote country of blue lakes and green valleys, this is the journey for you!
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1 : Arrive Bishkek
Meals Included: D
Upon arrival into Bishkek, the capital of Kyrgyzstan, you will be met at the airport and a transfer is provided to the group hotel (30km, ~1hr). Your local guide will conduct a group briefing in the lobby that evening (time to be advised) before you head out for a welcome meal to get to know your travel companions.
Overnight: Asia Mountains or similar
Day 2 : Bishkek Sightseeing
Meals Included: B, L, D
This morning we will visit the highlights of Bishkek including Alatoo Square, the State History Museum and the cultural-ethnographic complex 'Manas Ayily'. After lunch we journey by road to Kyrgystan’s largest gorge, Ala-Archa set in the Ala-Too Mountains. Drive 40 km, 1 h., + 1500 m (asphalt road). This gorge was declared a National Park in 1976 in order to protect its rare flora and fauna, 2200m. The park's name translates from Kyrgyz as 'the Speckled Juniper (Archa)', in honour of a plant which can be seen here at every turn.
Overnight: Asia Mountains or similar
Day 3 : Transfer To Son-Kul Lake (3,100M)
Meals Included: B, L, D
Today we drive to Son-Kul Lake where we are introduced to the nomadic life of Kyrgyz families who live much as their ancestors have for generations. Drive 390 km, 8-9 h., + 2000 m (asphalt + dirt road). We will have the opportunity to sample fresh airan (yoghurt) and kumis (the national drink of fermented mare's milk). This evening we spend the night in a yurt camp in the summer mountain pastures. Please note that there is no for single occupancy option at the yurt camp.
Overnight: Yurt camp
Day 4 : Son-Kul Lake (3,100M)
Meals Included: B, L, D
Today we learn how to set up a yurt. The yurt is the traditional shelter for people of the Tian Shan Mountains. These nomadic dwellings are constructed of a multi-pieced wooden frame that is overlaid with several felt coverings of sheep wool. It takes only about two hours to put a yurt together. There are usually many colorful handmade mats, felt rugs and embroideries to be found inside, as well as a 'dastorkon' – a low table with delicious food prepared for guests.
Overnight: Yurt camp
Day 5 : Transfer To Issyk-Kul Lake (1,690M)
Meals Included: B, L, D
Today we journey by road to the southern shore of Issyk-Kul Lake (drive 290 km, 6-6,5 h., - 1400 m asphalt + dirt road), the second largest alpine lake in the world after Lake Titicaca in South America. It is set at 1608m above sea level against the scenic backdrop of the Tian Shan mountains. Measuring 182 km long by 58 km wide, the lake was created by volcanic activity. It is heated by geothermal activity and never freezes, even in the depths of a Kyrgyz winter. In the summer the water temperature reaches 25-28 degrees centigrade (warmer than the air) and you can swim in the lake enclosed on all sides by the snowy peaks of the Tian Shan Mountains. Extremely deep and nicely warm, over the centuries the lake served an oasis in this hostile mountain environment. With its diverse flora and fauna Issyk-Kul Lake and the surrounding countryside is considered to be one of Central Asia’s most remarkable locations. Please note that there is no for single occupancy option at this small guesthouse.
Overnight: Guesthouse in Tamga
Day 6 : Transfer To Jeti-Oguz Gorge (2,250M)
Meals Included: B, L, D
Today we drive to Jeti-Oguz Gorge which translates from Kyrgyz as 'Red Cliffs of Seven Bulls'. Drive 100 km, 3 h., + 560 m (asphalt + dirt road). Jeti-Oguz is set at the height of 2,250 m above sea level on the northern slopes of the Terskei Ala-Too Ridge. The gorge slopes are covered with the world-famous Tian Shan blue spruce along the fast mountain river which flows parallel to the trail. Today we will trek through mountain woods and hike up to the 'Maiden Tears' Waterfall. Please note that there is no for single occupancy option at tonight's yurt camp.
Overnight: Yurt camp
Day 7 : Trek To Telety Pass (3,800M)
Meals Included: B, L, D
Today we will begin our ascent of Telety Pass (3,800m) (16 km, 6-8hrs). The trail follows the river bank in a very narrow wooded gorge called Bay Tor that leads up to alpine meadows. Here on a flower carpet the mountain air is sweet and the views amazing. After lunch we continue our trek to our camp site at the foot of Telety Pass. Overnight: Tented camp
Day 8 : Trek Over Telety Pass (3,800M) Down To Karakol Gorge (2,500M)
Meals Included: B, L, D
Today we will trek over Telety Pass (3,800m) and down to Karakol Gorge (2500m) (18 km, 6-8hrs). Hiking up the pass is not too demanding as the route follows a narrow path with a slight ascent and only two rather steep slopes. From the top of the pass enjoy panoramic views. Descending, we follow the trail along the course of the East Telety River.
Overnight: Tented camp
Day 9 : Hike To The Foot Of Karakol Peak (5,216M)
Meals Included: B, L, D
Today we start our trek to the foot of Karakol Peak (5,216m) (16 km. 6-8 hrs) with the trail running parallel to the course of the Uyun Tor River. The route enters a blue spruce forest rich in vegetation. Forest mushrooms can be found in abundance. From May, the meadows turn into a panoramic delight as flowers begin to bloom. Here you can find snowdrops, primrose, white anemone, alpine aster, edelweiss and various species of wild tulips. We follow a breathtaking trail with wonderful viewpoints.
Overnight: Tented camp
Day 10 : Trek Along The Gorge To Ala Kol Lake (3,532M)
Meals Included: B, L, D
Today we will trek along a picturesque gorge to 'Sirota' hut and further to Ala Kol Lake (3,532m) (9 km, 6-8 hrs). We cross the river over a bridge from where the trail will lead us into forest. We hike along the river and reach a wonderful waterfall flowing down from Ala Kol Lake.
Overnight: Tented camp
Day 11 : Trek Over Ala Kol Pass (3,800M) & Descend Into Arashan Gorge (2,600M)
Meals Included: B, L, D
Today we will trek over Ala Kol Pass (3,800m) passing Ala Kol Lake before descending into Arashan Gorge (2,600m) (18 km, 6-8 hrs). Ala Kol Lake stretches from east to west for 2.8 km. Depending on the light, the water regular changes its colour. It can be emerald green, turquoise green with reflections of white clouds, light green or dark grey, even black. During the ascent we enjoy wonderful views of the lake as the main range comes into view across the wide valley of Keldike with picturesque landscapes, flocks of sheep and herds of goats. Later the trail will bring us into a forest again as we descend into Arashan Valley. Enjoy picturesque Arashan Gorge with its magnificent mountain side alpine meadows rich in fir-trees against a backdrop of the mighty Palatka (4,956 m) This afternoon we can enjoy a swim in hot springs.
Overnight: Tented camp
Day 12 : Transfer To Karakol (1,800M)
Meals Included: B, L, D
Today we journey by road to Karakol, a small administrative center of the Issy Kul region, situated on the southern bank of the lake. (Drive 30 km, 1 h., - 800 m asphalt + dirt road.)
Overnight: Amir Hotel or similar
Day 13 : Transfer To Cholpon-Ata
Meals Included: B, L, D
Today we set off for the north shore of Issyk Kul Lake. (Drive 140 km, 3-4 h asphalt road.) Along the way we visit the Cholpon Ata Petroglyphs site set at the foot of the Kungei Alatau Ridge.
Overnight: Karven Hotel or similar
Day 14 : Transfer To Bishkek
Meals Included: B, L, D
Today we drive back to Bishkek. (Drive 250 km, 4-5 hrs, - 800m asphalt road.) Along the way we will visit the ruins of Burana Tower near Tokmok city as well as Turkic ancient tombs.
Overnight: Asia Mountains or similar
Day 15 : Trip Concludes In Bishkek
Meals Included: B
The trip will conclude after breakfast today, with private transfers to the airport. (Drive 30 km, 1 hr, asphalt road).
What's Included
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Accommodation
6 nights hotel/guesthouse -
14 breakfasts, 13 lunches, 14 dinners
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Airport transfers (group transfers day 1 and 15)
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comfortable hotels on twin share basis
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mountain guide on trek
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local doctor (days 3-14)
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50l kit bag for personal items provided during trek
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porter and cook services on trek
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group camping equipment
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medical kit
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private transport throughout
What's Not Included
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International airfares
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Travel Insurance (Compulsory)
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Visas
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Meals and beverages not mentioned in the program
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Items of a personal nature such as laundry, phone calls, alcohol, etc
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Tips and gratuities
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Sleeping bags are not provided but can be hired
Accommodation
6 nights hotel/guesthouse
In cities or large towns you will be accommodated in 3 to 4 star, twin share properties that are centrally located, atmospheric and reliable. Enjoy our fully supported camping in quality two person tents erected in scenic wilderness. A yurt is a circular felt tent used by nomadic people. Warm in winter and cool in summer offering you an awesome cultural experience. We use quality guesthouses. They are not luxury Inns but we make sure they offer you a truly authentic experience. The yurt nights are on a multi share basis.
Also please note, when in the yurts, normally there are 5-6 other travellers.
What You Carry
In your daypack you will need to carry extra warm clothing (depending on the altitude, location and weather), a rainjacket, water bottle, camera gear, valuables and personal items such as sunscreen, lip balm etc. Porters carry all group gear and your trek pack.
Grading
On a moderate trek physical activity will generally not exceed eight hours in a day. On a moderate adventure the physical activity is sustained and travelers should be comfortable with occasional rough terrain. At any stage of a moderate trek you can expect long steep climbs and descents and a wide range of weather conditions. An example of an average day on moderate trek could include several ascents and descents of 500 metres or more, level ground is rare in the mountains. To prepare for a moderate trek you should begin training at least three months before your departure. As a benchmark, an hour of aerobic exercise three times per week would be considered a minimum requirement. The best preparation is bushwalking involving relatively steep ascents and descents. If you can manage a couple of valley floor to ridgeline ascents per bushwalk, albeit with stops along the way, you know you can cope with a moderately graded trek. Speed is not important, stamina, confidence and rhythm are.
Check out our Q&As
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Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?
We have offices on three continents which means your travelling companions will be just that – international and wonderfully eclectic. Part of small group travel means that although travellers come from various locations and backgrounds, you will be travelling with like-minded companions who, like you, are keen to share the experience and forge lifelong friendships.
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What about environmental impact?
We believe that adventure travel revolves around establishing a strong relationship with the people and environments in which we operate. Our responsible travel policies have been carefully developed to ensure that we minimise the impact of our presence and help to protect the regions we visit while contributing positively to the local community.
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What should I pack?
Your pre-departure documents include a detailed packing list with items that you need to bring. While most of the equipment for daily activities is included in your tour cost, some items like helmets and hiking boots are best brought from home. The pre-departure documents also include information on layering and recommended brands for various items to ensure you are fully prepared for your trip.
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Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?
Yes. World Expeditions does not require single travellers to pay a surcharge for travelling alone on the vast majority of our trips. Our holidays are primarily on a twin share basis, so if you are joining the group as a solo traveller, we will match you with someone of your own gender. The choice is yours however; if you prefer not to share, we do offer single supplements for private occupancy.
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Are tips included in my trip price?
Tips are not included in the tour cost. Tipping is a personal thing, do not worry about how much, or when, to tip. Tipping guidelines are provided for certain destinations in our pre departure information upon booking, however the best advice will be provided by your tour leader.
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Am I suited to small-group travel?
We recognise that many of our travellers have not been on a ‘group trip’ before. Yet what our departures provide is both structure and flexibility, allowing you plenty of freedom within the framework of the itinerary. You’ll find that with our maximum group size at 16, you’ll travel in a minimal impact style with a great group of like-minded travellers.
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Can you advise which vaccinations are recommended?
While our pre-departure kit provides information on vaccinations, we suggest that you consult your doctor, local government inoculation centre or a travel medical specialist in order to get the most current advice regarding vaccination requirements.
Reviews from travellers on this tour
1 Dates & Availability
Monday - Monday
Jul 08, 2024 - Jul 22, 2024Monday - Monday
Aug 19, 2024 - Sep 02, 2024Monday - Monday
Jul 07, 2025 - Jul 21, 2025Monday - Monday
Aug 04, 2025 - Aug 18, 2025Book with Confidence
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Transfer as credit to Future Tours
World Expeditions allows you to transfer existing payments to a future tour to avoid cancellation fees if you can't travel and inform world expeditions, 70 days before departure.
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Low Deposit
World Expeditions requires a minimum deposit of 250 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 70 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of world expeditions charges.
Up to 70 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 69 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 35 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.