Karakol - Jyrgalan Valley

Jyrgalan Valley - Driving distance/time: approximately 1.5 hours
Trekking distance/time: 13 km, 5–6 hours

Guests will be picked up early in the morning from their hotel in Karakol and driven to the starting point in the picturesque Jyrgalan Valley. The drive takes about 1.5 hours, gradually transitioning from the town to a more secluded mountain landscape.

The trek starts at an elevation of around 1,900 meters above sea level, following a scenic route through lush valleys, forested slopes, and open alpine terrain. As the elevation increases, the views become more breathtaking, with expansive mountain panoramas unfolding along the way.

After a steady climb, the first campsite is reached at approximately 3,100 meters. Here, there is time to relax, enjoy the tranquil surroundings, and breathe in the fresh mountain air.

Jyrgalan - Boz Uchuk

Bozuchuk Lakes – Jergez Gorge

Jergez Gorge – Almaluu Gorge

Almaluu – Altyn Arashan Gorge

Altyn Arashan - Today is relatively easy in terms of distance, but it begins with an 800m+ climb over Ortok Pass (3650 m). The trail continues along the east side of the river to the main Ak-Suu Arashan Valley. After lunch, there is a short walk to the wild hot springs, where guests can take a dip in the hot springs that have been locally famous since before the Soviet era. Rest is recommended tonight, as tomorrow promises a long but rewarding uphill day. Overnight stay in a guesthouse (Elevation: 2500m).
Trekking distance: 14 km

Altyn Arashan – Ala Kul Lake

Ala Kul Lake - After breakfast, the journey continues to cross another pass known as Ala-Kul Pass. From Altyn Arashan, cross the large bridge to the west side of the Ak-Suu River and continue south for just over 2km to the first large valley that rises to the southwest. From the exit of the Arashan Valley, it’s an 8km uphill climb from 2570m at the valley floor to 3906m at the Ala-Kol North Pass, with the last 200m of elevation rising through loose scree, where two clear paths have been formed by the many hikers on Issyk-Kol’s most popular trekking route. The views from the top of the pass are truly sublime, offering an incredible panorama of peaks over 5000m and the expanse of Ala-Kol Lake. On this day, camping will be next to Ala-Kul Lake. Overnight in a tent (Elevation: 3550m).
Trekking distance: 15 km

Ala Kul – Karakol Gorge

Karakol Gorge - From the camp, the journey continues westward. Most tourists will descend here to the Karakol Valley via the Sirota Hut, but instead, the route loops around the curve of the lake along a small path visible from afar that climbs from the lake along a rockfall to the 3781m Panorama Pass. From east to west across the horizon, the most prominent summits are Djigit Peak (5178m), Karakol Peak (5216m), and Öguz-Bashi Peak (5126m). Expect around two hours for the full 4km of hiking, longer if the pace is generally slow on downhills. A break for lunch is advisable upon reaching the valley to rest the knees and regain strength for the next climb. The camp will be set at 3200m.
Trekking distance: 11 km

Karakol Gorge – Teleti Camp

Teleti Camp - Karakol Town

Jeti-Oguz Canyon (Seven Bulls Rocks) - The journey continues with a walk down to Djeti-Oguz Valley. Lunch will be enjoyed in yurts, followed by a short hike to the waterfall known as Girl’s Braids. Transportation will be provided from Kok-Jaik Pasture to Karakol Town. Overnight stay in a guesthouse.
Trekking distance: 13 km

• Starlink internet
• English speaking guide
• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
• Transfers: Karakol → Jyrgalan (start) and Jeti-Ögüz → Karakol (end)
• Equipment: Sleeping bags, mattress

• Alcoholic beverages
• Single supplement

The Ak-Suu Transverse trek offers an exciting 9-day adventure through the breathtaking Terskey Ala-Too region of Kyrgyzstan. This physically challenging journey takes trekkers through stunning alpine valleys, over high mountain passes, and past picturesque glacial lakes, showcasing the unspoiled beauty of Central Asia. Highlights include staying in traditional yurts, wild camping, and unwinding in natural hot springs, with trails ranging from moderate to challenging.

• Duration: 9 days with 8 nights of accommodation in yurts and tented camps
• Full board meals provided: breakfast, lunch, and dinner
• Cross iconic mountain passes and explore beautiful alpine lakes
• Perfect for active travelers who love hiking and are comfortable walking for several hours each day.

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.