Trekking
Active Kyrgyzstan — 15-Day Grand Trek
POPULAROverview
The Active Kyrgyzstan Grand Trek is our most comprehensive adventure — 15 days that cover the full sweep of the country's greatest landscapes. From the wildflower valleys of Chon-Kemin to the high plateau of Son-Kul, the dramatic Ala-Kul circuit, the red canyons of Jeti-Oguz, and the shores of Issyk-Kul.
This is a flagship expedition for travellers who want to experience Kyrgyzstan deeply rather than skim its highlights. You will sleep in yurts with nomad families, cross mountain passes on horseback, soak in hot springs, and watch eagle hunters work their birds on the Son-Kul plateau.
The route is suitable for fit hikers with multi-day trekking experience. The Ala-Kul pass crossing on day 7 is the most demanding section — 3,906m, significant elevation gain — but the rest of the itinerary is varied enough to allow recovery days in between.
Itinerary
Drive through Boom Gorge to Chon-Kemin. Wildflower meadows and first mountain views. Yurt camp.
Full day trek through the valley, reaching 2,800m. Wildflower meadows, marmots, views of Kungey Ala-Too. Return to yurt camp.
Drive to Kyzart village. 5h horse ride or trek over the pass to Son-Kul high plateau. Yurt stay with nomad family.
Morning ride along the lake. Afternoon: eagle hunting demonstration with local hunters. Kumiss tasting. Yurt overnight.
Descend from plateau. Long drive via Naryn to Karakol base for Ala-Kul trek.
Begin Ala-Kul trek. 5h through pine forest to gorge camp. Acclimatisation.
The classic high-pass crossing. Descent to glacial lake. Overnight on the lakeshore.
Hike down through pine forest. Soak in natural hot springs. Final yurt overnight.
Drive south shore of Issyk-Kul. Red sandstone canyon of Jeti-Oguz, Barskoon waterfall, Skazka Canyon. Karakol overnight.
Morning at Karakol Sunday animal bazaar (if Sun). Afternoon drive back to Bishkek via north shore. Tour ends.
What's Included
Included
- English-speaking mountain guide & driver
- All accommodation (yurts, guesthouses, camping)
- Full board all days
- All transfers & 4WD transport
- Horse hire for Son-Kul crossing
- All permits & entry fees
Not Included
- International flights
- Travel insurance
- Personal trekking gear
- Gratuities
Route Map
Interactive route map — Phase D