Hiking to Lake Sary Chelek
7-Day Trek to the High-Altitude Lakes of the Kyrgyz Tian Shan
Duration
13 days
From
€1,950/pers.
Ideal seasons
Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep
Style
Expeditions
Comfort
rustique
Travelers
Solo, With friends, Couple
The spirit of travel
Immerse yourself in an adventure in the heart of Kirghizistan, between lush valleys, alpine passes and nights in bivouac under the stars. This circuit combines hiking, nature, nomadic immersion and local culture, following the gentle rhythm of the Kyrgyz mountains. From discovering the Ala Archa park to the Urmaral trails, each stage invites you to walk independently, accompanied by an attentive and committed local team.
Your multi-day trek takes you off the beaten path, through passes, gorges, summer pastures and high-altitude lakes, including Kara-Suu, Yiri Kol and Sary Chelek. The landscapes succeed one another, between dark rocks, forests, glaciers and pastures alive with herds. The moments spent with rural families, around camps or by the lakeside, make the experience profoundly human.
This journey is for those who wish to experience an authentic adventure, blending trekking, nature, culture and encounters, in the peaceful atmosphere of Central Asian mountains.
The stages of your journey
Highlights
Day-by-day itinerary
Welcome and visit to Ala Archa Natural Park
Aéroport International De Manas → Bishkek
Upon your arrival at Manas International Airport, your driver warmly welcomes you and accompanies you as soon as you exit.
You then take the road for your transfer to your accommodation.
The guide will meet you at 11:00 in the hotel lobby before heading to Ala Archa National Park, appreciated for its valleys and alpine landscapes.
A walk of approximately one hour takes you to a pleasant area where you settle in for outdoor lunch.
In the afternoon, you enjoy the setting to rest, observe the surrounding nature and continue a walk at your own pace until you reach a waterfall. This moment in the heart of the park offers you a peaceful immersion, accompanied by the attention and professionalism of the local team.
Route for Talas through the Silk.
You leave Bishkek heading towards Talas, a small town that once served as a stop on the Silk Road.
You cross the Soussamir Valley, dotted with Kyrgyz yurts set up for the season. In the distance, you observe the herds of shepherds who have come to take advantage of the summer pastures. As the kilometers pass, the road becomes more winding with the crossing of two passes: Too-Ashu (3,400 m) and Otmёk (3,326 m).
You then enter the Talas valley, characterized by its birch forests and waterfalls, offering a gentle atmosphere conducive to discovery. As you approach the town of Talas, you visit the Manas Ordo complex, which houses the mausoleum of Manas, a mythical Kyrgyz hero. This stage allows you to deepen your knowledge of local cultural heritage, accompanied by your guide and the expertise of the team on site.
Urmaral Hiking in Kyrgyzstan
Talas → Urmaral Gorge
Early in the morning, you head towards Urmaral Gorge, the starting point of your hike.
After getting to know the English-speaking support team and preparing your equipment, you follow your guide along the Urmaral river. You set up your camp at the junction of the two confluents Chiym Tash and Shor-Alysh, in a calm environment conducive to hiking. This first bivouac marks the beginning of your immersion in the heart of nature.
You embark on a 7-day independent trek, with the logistics and your personal belongings transported by pack horses. This organization allows you to walk peacefully while fully enjoying the landscapes you traverse.
From Urmaral Gorge
Trek in the Chiym Tash Valley
To Col De Chiym Tash
You head back towards the Chym-Tash pass (3,615 m) and leave behind the lush green tones of the plain, gradually replaced by two glacial moraines. You set up camp at the foot of the pass to enjoy a night's rest under the stars. Elevation gain: 1,000 m.
Descent to Kara-Kulja Kirghizistan
Col De Chiym Tash → Kara-Kulja Valley
You progress over rocky terrain devoid of vegetation. The mountain pass offers you a view of the Tien Shan and, below, the Kara-Kulja valley. You then begin the descent with caution. Although short, it remains steep for a few meters.
Ascent and descent of the Jety Sart and Kashka-Suu valleys
After a comforting breakfast, you set off to climb the Jety Sart pass (3,300 m), before descending into the Kashka Suu valley. The atmosphere becomes closer to that of alpine landscapes, with a few herds coming to graze for the summer season. You cross the river and set up your camp for the night. Elevation gain: 800 m.
You continue your 7-day self-guided hiking trip, with the transport of logistics and your personal belongings ensured by pack horses. This organization allows you to walk comfortably while fully enjoying your immersion in the mountains.
Walking tour
To Vallée De Kashka-Suu
Ascent to Kara-Suu Kirghizistan
You begin a sustained climb. You leave the verdant meadows dotted with white and yellow flowers to reach soil darkened by black sedimentary stones. The ascent is slow and demands greater effort. At the summit, the Kara-Suu valley unfolds, fed by its river and punctuated with green spaces. Along the way, you cross paths with a few horsemen.
You set up camp near Kara-Suu lake for the night. Elevation gain: 700 m. You continue your 7-day self-sufficient hiking trip, with the transport of logistics and your personal belongings ensured by pack horses. This organization facilitates your progress and allows you to fully enjoy each stage in the mountains.
Vallée De Kashka-Suu → Col De Kashka-Suu (3390 M)
Relaxation on the shores of Lake Kara-Suu
Col De Kashka-Suu (3390 M) → Kara-Suu Lake
You are enjoying a moment of relaxation by the water today. A short walk takes you to the alpine lake of Kara-Suu, nestled at 2,200 m altitude in the heart of the mountains. You make the most of the setting to swim and appreciate the serenity of the place.
You continue your 7-day self-guided trek, with the logistics and your personal belongings carried by pack horses. This organization allows you to progress peacefully while enjoying the pace of the walk.
Day of Relaxation
You are crossing the last pass of your adventure today. The tree-lined trail leads you to Koterme (2,246 m), offering a viewpoint over the surrounding lakes, including Sary-Chelek Lake. You then begin your descent towards Yiri Kol lake, located between 1,800 and 2,040 m in altitude.
You will spend the night on its shores, after enjoying its waters and the surrounding peace. You continue your 7-day self-guided trek, with the transport of logistics and your personal belongings ensured by pack horses. This organization makes walking more comfortable and allows you to fully enjoy each stage.
Day 10
A day of relaxation by the lake. You take time to explore the surroundings, rest or enjoy the calm of the place. It is also possible to enjoy a horseback ride on the site, depending on your wishes.
At the end of the day, you head to the village of Arkit, where your hosts welcome you for the night and share their sense of hospitality.
Kara-Suu Lake → Yiri-Kol
Yiri-Kol → Sary-Chelek Lake
Route to Toktogul Kyrgyzstan
Arkit Village → Lac De Toktogoul
Route towards Toktogul, an artificial lake of 284 km². The road offers a striking contrast between colors and rock formations. You cross the mining landscapes of Tachkomur, then the Lower Naryn gorge, characterized by its red sandstone walls, before reaching the Toktogul reservoir.
A picnic is planned on the shores of the lake.
Return to the capital
Lac De Toktogoul → Bishkek
Last day of travel before reaching Kyrgyzstan's capital. You leave the lush mountains of Kyrgyzistan, after immersing yourself with a warm-hearted people whose traditions are still very much alive, and arrive in Bishkek. You settle into your hotel and enjoy a moment of rest.
You visit the Osh Bazaar, considered one of the most lively markets in Kyrgyzstan. Stalls of dried fruits and spices stretch throughout your visit, revealing the scents and colors typical of Central Asia. You will also find numerous traditional souvenirs there, ideal for bringing back an authentic testimony of your journey.
A stroll through Ala-Too Square, in the heart of Bishkek. A meeting place appreciated by Kyrgyz youth, it comes alive each evening with a crowd of walkers enjoying the urban atmosphere. This square has also been the setting for several major events in the country's history.
Safe travels back home and see you next time!
Breakfast at the hotel.
Bishkek → Aéroport International De Manas
You are then taken to Bishkek International Airport. The return transfer is arranged according to your flight schedule.
Price per person
Indicative price per person, based on double room. Each trip is customized according to your preferences.
This trip can be tailored to your preferences
This itinerary provides an excellent foundation for discovery, but it can be fully customized. Our local advisors build each trip tailored to your budget, dates and preferences.
Not included
- International transport
- Passport & Visa Fees
- Repatriation Insurance
- Travel Insurance
- Extra beverages / alcohols
- Meals in Bishkek
- Phone calls
- Any excursion not mentioned in the program
- Baggage supplement if you transport more than 20kg
- Single room supplement
- Personal luggage carrier supplement
Included
- Airport / Hotel / Airport Transfers
- 1 night in ** hotel in Bishkek, breakfast included
- 1 night in lodge camp
- 2 nights in a local hotel in Talas and Och
- 1 night in a guest house or with a local resident depending on availability
- 1 night with a local family in a yurt
- 7 nights in a tent, camping
- Full board during the excursion
- Mineral water
- Transfers by minibus + driver
- Essence
- English-speaking guide
- Local guide
- Groom
- Cook for groups > 4 participants
- Pack horses for equipment transport
- Kitchen equipment and bedding material (tent, sleeping bag, ground mat)
Practical Information
Registration is considered firm and final after payment of a deposit of 30% of the total price and acceptance of the specific terms of sale.
The balance must be paid no later than 45 days before the departure date.
See our specific terms of sale for full details.
In the event of cancellation by the traveller, the following fees apply:
- More than 60 days before departure: 40% of the total price (deposit retained)
- Between 60 and 30 days before departure: 50% of the total price
- Less than 30 days before departure: 100% of the total price
We strongly recommend taking out cancellation insurance. See our specific terms of sale for full details.
The information below concerns entry requirements for tourism stays in Kyrgyzstan. Entry requirements may vary depending on your nationality. We recommend verifying the conditions with the embassy or consulate of Kyrgyzstan in your country of residence, as well as with your own country's authorities, before departure.
Passport
To enter Kyrgyzstan, your passport must be valid for a minimum of six months from the date of entry and must contain at least one blank page for immigration stamps.
The document must be in good condition (no damaged, torn, or altered pages).
Tourism entry requirements
Entry requirements for tourism stays depend on your nationality and the applicable bilateral agreements between Kyrgyzstan and your country of citizenship.
Verify the specific conditions with the embassy or consulate of Kyrgyzstan in your country of residence to determine whether you require a visa or whether an exemption applies, and the maximum duration of stay permitted.
The authorities may request:
an exit ticket from the territory (return flight or onward travel),
proof of sufficient financial resources for the duration of your stay,
a confirmation of accommodation booking.
Registration with local authorities
Any traveller staying in Kyrgyzstan is required to register with the immigration services within five working days of arrival.
In practice, this registration is generally completed automatically by the hotel or accommodation provider. If staying with a private individual (private rental, host family), it is the responsibility of the host or the traveller to complete this formality at the local registration office (ОВИР).
It is advisable to keep a copy of the registration certificate, which may be requested during police checks or when leaving the territory.
Travel with children
Minors must hold their own valid passport covering the duration of the stay.
When a minor travels without one of their parents, an authorization to leave the territory may be required according to the regulations of the country of residence.
Health and vaccines
No vaccination is mandatory to enter Kyrgyzstan. However, certain vaccinations are recommended for preventive purposes, including:
typhoid and hepatitis A, due to local sanitary conditions,
rabies, particularly for travellers planning activities in rural or mountainous areas,
tick-borne encephalitis, for hikers visiting forested or high-altitude areas.
It is advisable to consult a doctor or international vaccination centre before departure.
To participate in our trips, it is strongly recommended that you have assistance and repatriation insurance as well as medical expense coverage abroad.
Your local agency encourages you to review the specific contract developed with our partner CHAPKA ASSURANCES and AXA ASSISTANCE.
To subscribe to an insurance policy, learn about coverage and rates, follow the link below.
CAP EXPLORER: The complete insurance solution designed to travel peacefully!
Choose the plan that suits you best:
Explorer'Multirisque
Explorer'Annulation
Explorer'Assistance
Explorer' Complementary Credit Card
Specific to our trips, we strongly recommend subscribing to one of these.
If you choose to subscribe to one of these plans, the policy detailing all coverage and claim reporting procedures are available on the insurer's website.
Your local agency will be aware of it, but only the participant is responsible for complying with the claim reporting procedures. The participant must therefore keep this policy with them throughout the duration of their trip.
Chapka — Cap Explorer
Our insurance partnerTravel with peace of mind with our partner Chapka. Cancellation, repatriation, medical expenses, baggage… All the coverage for a worry-free trip.
Travel with peace of mind — I'll handle the insuranceFrequently asked questions
To enter Kyrgyzstan, a passport valid for at least 6 months beyond your entry date is required. No visa is necessary for short-term tourist stays. Kyrgyzstan offers an accessible destination to discover the Tian Shan and nomadic culture. Check with Kyrgyzstan's consular authorities for entry conditions applicable to your nationality before booking.
Go to the My Trips section to find all your projects.
You can send a message to your host directly from the Tea Lounge.
For a tailor-made quality trip, budget between 110 and 180 euros per day and per person, including accommodation, meals, internal transport and guide. International flights (500-900 euros return, often via Istanbul) are additional. Kirghizistan is one of the most affordable mountain destinations in the world.
Your documents are accessible in the Documents tab of your trip.
Absolutely. We adapt each itinerary to your travel profile. For families, we prioritize relaxed paces, family-friendly accommodations, engaging and educational activities, and comfortable private transfers. Our English-speaking local guides know how to capture children's attention with age-appropriate stories.
It's simple. You exchange with our local team to define your wishes, your budget and your dates. You receive a detailed itinerary proposal within 48 hours. You adjust every detail together until you have the perfect version. You confirm and set off with peace of mind. Your local agency remains available 7 days a week throughout your trip.
In case of emergency, contact your local agency immediately.
Payment is generally made in two installments.
Our agency is part of the Nomadays network, registered in France. You benefit from APST (Association Professionnelle de Solidarité du Tourisme) coverage that protects 100% of your funds. Secure payment, repatriation insurance included, and English-speaking assistance 24/7 on the ground throughout your stay.
Let's talk about your adventure — High Valleys of Tian Shan
Our travel expert, Nomade, based in Bishkek
Kyrgyzstan isn't just visited. It's lived in, over a shared cup of tea in a yurt, at the pace of horses, wind, and human connection.
— Nazira
