What is the must-do trek?

The two-to-three-day Ala-Kul loop from Karakol, crossing a 3,900 m pass to a turquoise lake and the Altyn-Arashan hot springs.

When is the best time to visit?

July to September for the high treks; the lakeshore is warm June to September and Karakol skis December to March.

Can I combine mountains and rest?

Yes — the warm lake makes an ideal recovery between trekking days, one of the region's real draws.

Things to do in Ysyk-Köl Region (Issyk-Kul)

The Ysyk-Köl shore ranges from warm beach towns to the glaciated Terskey Ala-Too, with Karakol at its eastern end serving as Kyrgyzstan's adventure hub. Trekking, skiing and lakeside recovery all sit within a short drive of one another, making it the most rewarding single base in the country.

Classic treks and hot springs

The classic Ala-Kul trek and Altyn-Arashan hot-spring walks from Karakol, winter ski touring, and the red rock formations of Jeti-Oguz and Grigoryevskoye gorge nearby, all in the Issyk-Köl highlands. Open the Book here tab for dates.