Kyrgyzstan: Trekking the Tien Shan Trails

Salam! Welcome to Bishkek. Your adventure begins with a welcome meeting at 6 pm tonight. If you arrive early, why not explore the city’s tree-lined parks and gardens and wide streets perfect for strolling. Maybe head out in search of some samsa (pastry pockets filled with meat and vegetables) and visit the centre of the city – Ala-too Square, known as Lenin Square in Soviet times. You might like to visit Osh Market – it might be a little crowded, but it provides a peek into local life. After you meet your local leader and fellow travellers, maybe head out to dinner and get your first taste of Kyrgyz cuisine.

As you get ready for your trekking adventure, drive through scenic landscapes to the Issyk Kol Lake – the second largest alpine lake in the world. On the way, stop at Kok Moinok canyons for a warm up hike and check out the red rock formations. Tonight, you’ll stay in a traditional hand-crafted Krygz yurt – a traditional nomad dwelling near the lake with a view of snow-capped mountains.

After breakfast, drive to Sutty Bulak to start your trek toward Svetlaya Polyana pass. Take in the fascinating view of the highest peaks of Terskey Ala-Too as you trek down to Jety Oguz valley through the fir tree forest. You’ll make your way through rolling green hills, views of the mountain peaks, red rock formations, wildflowers, and a wooded canyon ending with the stunning peak of Oguz Bashi (5018 m) before arriving at your camp site for the night. Maiden Tears waterfall – or ‘Girls Braids’ waterfall – is a short walk from the site and will reward you with a 20 m high waterfall along the rocks.

Wake up early today for a full day’s hike to Kyzyl Jar canyon. You’ll start gaining height right from the yurts and across the slops of Jety Oguz mountain, then cross the high pastures to the canyon. The canyon is not passable, but you’ll hike above its western edge. There will be many nomads' camps in site – stop by one to share a traditional lunch, learn about the area and take a much-needed break. After you rest up, hike down to Kyzyl Dzher canyon, also known as the ‘red cathedral’.

Refuel with breakfast then trek over the green pastures dotted with yurts of local nomads on your way to Irdyk Valley. Go from a red rock canyon through alpine meadows and forests to the peaceful valley with river and mountain views. This area has a unique array of flora and fauna, so keep your eyes out, especially for its varied species of birds, as your landscape shifts into forested slopes and the wide, serene valley framed by the snow-capped peaks. Tonight, camp among the forest on the bank of a crystal-clear mountain stream. Maybe enjoy a fire with your fellow travellers and recap the day’s adventure.

Wake up early this morning for another day of hiking. Today, you’ll hike to the upper grounds of Irdyk valley to see Irdyk lakes. The untouched nature surrounded by mountains and meadows is a sight to see. The area is famous for its unique atmosphere and clear water, which creates reflections of the surrounding landscapes and looks like a painting. Return to camp in the evening, maybe feeling both happy and tired after taking in such overwhelming panoramas.

Today, trek over Chulpek valley to Mokroe valley – an alpine gorge that starts through dense forests and gradually opens into lush meadows for a mix of wooded shade and big-sky views as you gain altitude toward a plateau. Take in the views of the mountains, forest and glacial lake then trek down Old Jeep Road – a major road through the mountains that forms a part of the historical Silk Road. Tonight, stop for camp in the forest for your final night in the mountains.

Pack up camp this morning and say goodbye to the local trekking crew. Trek down along the mountain river in the shade of centuries of old pines and fir trees and into the valley at the bottom. Give your legs a rest with a drive to Karakol where you’ll explore the city – once a Russian outpost on the edge of the empire. You’ll see the Dungan Mosque and Holy Trinity Cathedral and maybe visit a local market before a much-needed rest.

Drive back to Bishkek today. When you arrive in the late afternoon, settle into your hotel and maybe head out for a stroll and wander around in downtown with your local leader. You’ll see a mix of Soviet-era architecture, Central Asian culture, modern cafes and tree-lined boulevards. Tonight, commemorate the end of the trek over dinner with your group.

Your trip comes to an end after breakfast this morning. If you’d like to extend your stay, just get in touch with your booking agent ahead of time to organise additional accommodation.