ALA KOL LAKE TREK

Overview

Trip code: KLAA

Trip season: 01/07-31/09

Days: 5 days

Group size:  1-16 pax

Price: Please refer to trek dossier for the most up-to-date information.

Description: The 5 day trek from Karakol valley to Altyn Arashan over the lake Ala Kol. Being short it will suit fit trekkers on their quick visits to Kyrgyzstan. The trek croses a mountain range at Ala Kol pass 3860 m to Altyn Arashan,and goes thru fur tree forests and juniper groves. Magnificient view over the mountain panorama of Terskey range opens from the top of the pass: peaks Karakol, Slonenok, Jigit, Palatka are right before you. The area we trek through is abounded with wild life: mountain goats, Marco Polo sheep, deer, foxes, wolves, plenty of marmots etc. The tour begins and ends with the opportunity to visit some of Kyrgyzstan's finest cultural and historical treasures.

Route: The route begins with drive to Karakol, a small city on the eastern shore of lake Issyk Kul - second largest alpine lake in the world. Here we make final preparations before the trek and drive to Karakol valley on the next day. Here, porters take over and carry personal luggage and camping gear for the trek through stunning mountain scenery. We start gaining the altitude from the bottom of Karakol valley all the way up to Ala Kol pass at 3860m. This trekking route goes by several mountain valleys passing many tempestuous rivers, high glaciated summits and a wide variety of colourful panoramas. The alpine meadows are extremely beautiful with a profusion of flowers and lush grass pastures. Several Golden Eagles have their home here along with other bird-life. There will be time at the end of the trek for sightseeing and shopping in Bishkek bazaars, and we will gather together for a banquet on the last night.

Grade: The tour is two days trekking on foot. Paths are generally in good shapes. Mountain passes are steep but not technically difficult. The trek is porter-assisted, so you need to carry only a day pack with some of your belongings. Average walking time is around 5-6 hours per day. Daily altitude gain is 1700m on the first day and 300m on the second. You must be reasonably fit to attempt this trek. Trekking/hiking and camping background advisable but not essential.

Trek Crew: The trek is assisted by guide, cook and porters who carry camping gear for the trek.

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