4 days trek to Ala-Kol Lake from Karakol Gorge to Altyn-Arashan

OVERVIEW

Experience the ultimate Kyrgyzstan adventure on this premier 4-day trek through the Terskey Ala-Too mountains, starting from the rugged base of Karakol Peak. You will ascend 1,100 meters to the iconic Ala-Kul Lake, where you can witness turquoise glacial waters and even explore by kayak depending on seasonal ice conditions.

After conquering the breathtaking Ala-Kul Pass (3,860m), the trail descends into the lush Altyn-Arashan Gorge for a rejuvenating soak in natural geothermal hot springs. This diverse circuit blends high-altitude challenges with authentic Kyrgyz yurt stays, offering an unparalleled journey through the heart of the Tian Shan range.

The expedition concludes with a scenic hike along the Arashan River to Ak-Suu, followed by a seamless transfer back to Karakol.

Tour Type: trekking

Total Duration: 4 days, 3 nights

Best Season:  June  – October

Level of Difficulty: from challenging to difficult

Maximum Altitude on the Trip:  3 900 meters ASL

Start and End Point: Karakol

Transport: 4 x 4 SUV

Best group size:  4-10 persons

Day 1: Karakol – Alpine camp

We depart from the city of Karakol to the Karakol Gorge in the morning. The drive to the trail head will take about 1,5 hours. After we take our lunch bags and walk close to the foot of Karakol peak. It is 7 km one way. Usually it takes 3-3,5 hours and 2h back. Lunch. We spend around one hour and descend back to the alpine camp. Campfire. We divide people in to the groups and make briefing for the next day. Overnight and dinner in yurt

Day 2: Alpine camp – Ala-Kol lake

Early breakfast. Our camp and starting point at 2500m. We cross the bridge and ascend to the lake ala-Kul lake. After about 2-2.5 hours of hiking up the valley, we will stop for rest at a small hut. After, we will continue trekking to the lake. Lunch on the route. The distance is around 10km but 1100m altitude difference.  Walking till the and of the lake or taking a boat or kayak to the other side of the lake(It depend on the situation with melting the ice). Overnight in tents.

Day 3: Ala-Kol lake – Altyn-Arashan hot springs – Karakol

Breakfast. From here, we must go up again toward the Ala-Kol pass (3860m), from which you can see all of the nearby peaks of the Terskey Ala-Too ringing the lake and rising up to over 5000m above sea level.

We descend the gorge to the hot springs of Altyn-Arashan (2500m). The descent takes 3-3,5 hours depending on the pace. Upon arrival, we will enjoy a relaxing soak in the hot springs. Dinner and overnight in yurt camp.

Day 4: Altyn-Arashan – Karakol

After breakfast, down the Altyn Arashan Valley toward Aksu Village. The length of the descent is 14 km, or about 3-3.5 hours. A car will be waiting in the village, and will drive us back to Karakol.

PLANNED DEPARTURE DATES 2026:

 NOTE: All groups start from 4 pax. If there are 2 or 3 pax, the tour will start with additional fee for 2 or 3 pax.

Looking for different dates? Private departures are available on your preferred dates. Inquire now to book your private tour at travel@visitkyrgyzstan.kg

PRICING 2026

Pricing below is per person. Have a small group of your friends or family? You can choose your own date and you will have your own private guide and transport for your adventure.