Kyrgyzstan is a hidden gem in Asia that most people don’t think of visiting, however, this is quickly changing. We want to grasp the opportunity to hike through this paradise before it makes it on every tourist’s bucket list. After all, the country has everything to offer from delicious food, ravishing mountains, electrifying passes, delightful people and an amazing culture; our diversely planned trip will ensure that you enjoy it all!
WHY TREK KYRGYZSTAN WITH GRASP THE ADVENTURE:
We've got countless reasons but here are some.
At Grasp The Adventure, our number 1 goal is to promote the spirit of adventure and the love of nature while forming bonds as strong as the mountains we hike on. We sincerely view all the hikers that joined our previous trips as friends and family, this is why we do our best to keep them safe and happy at all times. So besides going on awesome hikes to jaw-dropping sights, you’ll also be making new, like-minded friends.
IS THIS TRIP FOR YOU?
Remain calm and read on!
1) So you want to join but you’re also freaking out that you may not be experienced enough for this trek, well you really shouldn’t be. The great thing about the trails we’ll be taking is that they require absolutely no technical experience and are actually suitable for beginners with good fitness levels. The maximum altitude that we will be reaching is 3860 m which is a great achievement; however, we will be taking it slow and will allow enough time for our bodies to acclimatize. It is meant to be a challenge though, we want you to step way out of your comfort zone, and come out the other side feeling victorious!
2) If you are thinking 'well I do enjoy hiking but I don't want to go on an entire 1 week trip just to hike' then rest assured that this trip ain't all about hiking only! Scroll down to the itinerary and you'll see what we mean
3) We are committed to helping you expand your comfort zone, all you need to do is to keep a positive mental attitude thats why:
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Certified mountain guides will lead the hike while porters transport the group’s belongings, camping equipment, food, mess tent, etc.
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You will only be required to carry your day pack which will include whatever you may need during the hike, such as raincoat, snacks, camera and water
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Our chefs will be preparing your breakfasts, lunches and dinners
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Trek Guides are all professionally trained to handle any emergencies or evacuations under the unlikely circumstances should they occur
PRICE INCLUSIONS & EXCLUSIONS
Our price includes all the essentials from the moment you set foot in Kyrgyzstan to the moment you depart. We do not believe in hidden costs that surprise travelers, that is why we include things like guide/ porter/driver tips so that you don't need to worry about anything. Please refer to the table below for more detail:
INCLUSIONS
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Comfortable hotels & guest houses (double room basis)
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Guided treks
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Guided Horse-riding trek
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Guides, porters and chefs for the hike
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All transportation in Kyrgyzstan
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Two-man tents during hike
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Sleeping bags
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Tips for drivers, porters, guides and chefs
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3 meals per day, throughout trip
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Professional photography of the trip
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Access to hot springs
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Grasper merchandise surprise
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All the adventures mentioned in the itinerary
EXCLUSIONS
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International Flights
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Kyrgyzstan visa if required
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Travel insurance
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Altitude sickness tablets (Diamox)
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Personal expenses (souvenirs, snacks)
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Clothing (check packing list for details)
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Specialized/ Extra hiking gear
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Single Stay Supplement ($150 per person subject to availability of yurts)
RECOMMENDED HIKE PACKING LIST
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Original Passport
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Backpack or duffle for porters to carry
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Day Pack with rain cover
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Water Storage (bladder or canteen)
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Hiking boots
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2-3 wicking t-shirts
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1-2 hiking pants
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3-4 sets of undergarments
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3-4 sets of socks
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1 fleece jacket (temperatures can drop to 5 C at night)
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1 down jacket (temperatures can drop to 5 C at night)
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1 rain jacket
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Head torch
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Power bank
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Warm, winter hat
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Sun hat
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Sun glasses
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Waterproof plastic bags to put clothes in
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Sandals or slippers or sneakers
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Hiking poles
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Microfibre face towel
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Microfibre body towel
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Toiletries kit (soap, shampoo, conditioner, nail clippers, toothbrush, toothpaste, wet wipes, hand sanitizer, Fresh Buzz, toilet paper, hairbrush, feminine products)
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Personal First-Aid (Vitamins, hydration tablets, sleeping pills, altitude sickness pills)
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Lip balm
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Moisturizing cream
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Nose drops
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Sunscreen
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Insect repellent
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Pillow
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Sleeping bag liner
CARE FOR THE PORTERS
As usual, we try to do our best to benefit the country we are visiting by only dealing with high standard companies that ensure high living standards for their porters and guides.
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Note: Tips for the entire crew are included in the total cost of the trip and will be handled by Grasp The Adventure team, so you don’t need to worry about it. Tip amounts are calculated based on guidelines provided by the local company. If you want to go the extra mile, you can donate any of your hiking gear to the guides and porters AFTER the hike is over; they will really appreciate it.
ITINERARY
Day 1: Arriving in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan- Ala Archa National Park
Our local team will be waiting for us at Manas International Airport to welcome us to Kyrgyzstan and transfer us to our hotel in Bishkek. After checking in and having some time to rest, we'll head out to the beautiful Ala Archa National Park for our first taste of Kyrgyzstan's mountains. Here, we'll enjoy a scenic two-hour hike to the Ala Archa Waterfall, surrounded by towering peaks, alpine landscapes, and some of the freshest mountain air you'll ever breathe. We'll stop for a picnic lunch before returning to Bishkek to freshen up. In the evening, we'll gather for our welcome dinner at a traditional Kyrgyz restaurant and officially kick off the adventure.
Accommodation: Hotel
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Day 2: Bishkek - Cholpon Ata - Semenov & Grigoryev gorges - Karakol
After breakfast, we'll leave Bishkek behind and begin our journey towards Karakol. Along the way, we'll stop at the resort town of Cholpon Ata, where we'll visit the Ruh Ordo Cultural Complex and the fascinating Petroglyph Museum overlooking Issyk-Kul Lake. After lunch, we continue along the northern shore of the lake, making our way through the spectacular Semenov and Grigoryev Gorges, two of the most beautiful valleys in the country. By evening, we'll arrive in Karakol for dinner and a comfortable night's rest before our mountain adventure begins.
Accommodation: Guesthouse
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Day 3: Karakol - Karakol Gorge - Kurgak Tor Camp
Maximum altitude: 3000 m/ Hiking distance: 13-14 km/ Hiking time: 5-6 hrs
Today the trekking portion of our adventure begins. After breakfast, we'll head into the Karakol Gorge aboard an old Soviet GAZ-66 truck, taking us deep into the mountains to the trailhead. The first section of the hike follows a beautiful river valley through untouched wilderness, with plenty of opportunities to soak in the scenery and enjoy a relaxing lunch stop beside a small alpine lake. As the day progresses, the trail becomes steeper as we make our way through dense forests and up toward Kurgak Tor. After a rewarding climb, we'll reach our campsite near the historic Orphan's Shelter at an altitude of 3000 meters. Tonight, we'll enjoy dinner under the stars and settle into our mountain camp.
Accommodation: Tents
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Day 4: Kurgak Tor Camp - Ala Kol Pass - Keldike Gorge
Maximum altitude: 3860 m / Hiking distance: 8 km / Hiking time: 5-6 hrs
Today is undoubtedly one of the highlights of the trek. After breakfast, we'll gradually ascend towards the breathtaking Ala Kol Lake, famous for its stunning turquoise waters surrounded by snow-capped peaks. After a well-earned rest and snack by the lake, we'll continue along its shoreline before making the final push to Ala Kol Pass at 3860 meters above sea level. The views from the pass are nothing short of spectacular, offering panoramic vistas of the surrounding Terskey Ala-Too mountain range and some of Kyrgyzstan's highest peaks. After taking in the scenery and celebrating our achievement, we'll descend into the beautiful Keldike Gorge where we'll set up camp for the night.
Accommodation: Tents
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Day 5: Keldike Gorge - Altyn Arashan
Maximum altitude: 3400 m / Hiking distance: 10 km / Hiking time: 3-4 hrs
After breakfast, we'll begin our descent through the Keldike Gorge towards one of Kyrgyzstan's most famous mountain valleys, Altyn Arashan. Surrounded by forests, rivers, and towering peaks, this valley is renowned for its natural hot springs. Upon arrival, we'll enjoy lunch before spending the afternoon soaking in the warm mineral waters, giving our legs some well-deserved recovery after the previous days of trekking. Those who still have some energy left can explore additional hot spring pools hidden throughout the valley.
Accommodation: Yurt Camp
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Day 6: Altyn Arashan - Ak Suu - Jeti Oguz - Barskoon - Ton
Our morning begins with a memorable horseback ride through the beautiful Altyn Arashan Valley, allowing us to experience the landscape the traditional Kyrgyz way. Afterwards, we'll board the legendary Soviet GAZ-66 trucks and make our way down to Ak Suu before rejoining our bus. Following lunch in Karakol, we'll continue our journey along the southern shore of Issyk-Kul Lake, stopping at both the famous Jeti Oguz and Barskoon Gorges to admire their dramatic landscapes. By evening, we'll arrive at our traditional yurt camp in Ton, located near the shores of Issyk-Kul, where we'll enjoy dinner and another unforgettable night in the heart of Kyrgyzstan.
Accommodation: Yurt Camp
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Day 7: Ton - Eagle Hunters - Chon Kemin
After breakfast, we'll meet some of Kyrgyzstan's legendary eagle hunters and learn about this centuries-old tradition that remains an important part of the country's cultural heritage. We'll watch a live demonstration and have the opportunity to take photos with these magnificent golden eagles. Afterwards, we'll continue towards Chon Kemin Valley, stopping for lunch along the way in the scenic Boom Gorge. Upon arrival, we'll check into our mountain guesthouse and spend the evening relaxing around the campfire while enjoying the peaceful atmosphere and spectacular mountain views.
Accommodation: Guesthouse
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Day 8: Chon Kemin - Bishkek
Our final day begins with breakfast before we make our way back to Bishkek. Once in the capital, we'll visit the famous Osh Bazaar, one of the best places to experience local life, pick up souvenirs, and test our bargaining skills. We'll also stop by Ala Too Square and explore some of the city's highlights before enjoying lunch together. The afternoon is yours to relax, explore the city, or grab any last-minute gifts before we gather one final time for our farewell dinner featuring traditional cuisine, live music, and cultural performances. Later that night, we'll transfer to the airport for our journey home. It may be the end of the trip but I guarantee you the bonds formed this week will never be forgotten for they are stronger than the mountains we hiked. Merely 8 days ago some of us were strangers, but now we're one big Grasper Family!
Accommodation: Hotel​