Five mesmerizing
lakes hidden in the
Tian Shan

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Duration10 days
DifficultyModerate
SeasonJune – Sept
Price €1600

Per person. Prices vary based on group size, dates, and final accommodation choices.

10-day itinerary
overview

This route combines off-road travel with moderate hiking across five lakes of the Tian Shan, with nights in yurts and days on horseback offering direct access to nomadic life — guided by someone who has documented the region for over a decade.

Day 01
Private transfer and a welcome dinner
Arrival in Bishkek
Private transfer and a welcome dinner.
Day 02
Toward Issyk-Kul
Bishkek – Karakol
A scenic 430 km journey along the Chu River and the boundless shore of Lake Issyk-Kul, the world's second-largest high-altitude lake. Arrive in Karakol for an orientation tour and final preparations for the upcoming mountain treks.
Day 03
Into the mountains
Karakol – Sirota Camp
Begin your active ascent through the dense Tian Shan spruce forests of the Karakol Gorge. A 13 km trek along the turbulent river brings us to "Sirota" Camp (~2500 m) for a night under the stars before the decisive climb to Lake Ala-Kul.
Day 04
Crossing the pass
Ala-Kul Pass – Altyn-Arashan
Conquer the ascent to Ala-Kul Pass (3,920m) for a breathtaking view of the Tien Shan's turquoise heart. After a challenging 8-hour trek, descend to the natural thermal springs of Altyn-Arashan for a well-deserved soak and a night of comfort.
Day 05
Valley of the Seven Bulls
Altyn-Arashan – Jeti-Oguz
Descend through pine forests for a Dungan culinary experience in Karakol and a swim in Lake Issyk-Kul. Conclude the day at the iconic Jeti-Oguz gorge, famous for its "Seven Bulls" red sandstone formations.
Day 06
To the celestial plateau
Jeti-Oguz – Son-Kul
A scenic journey across high-mountain passes to Lake Son-Kul (3,000m+). Immerse yourself in the traditional nomadic life of the Naryn region with horseback riding and a night in an authentic yurt camp.
Day 07
Silk Road caravanserai
Son-Kul – Tash-Rabat
Travel through the Inner Tien Shan to the Kara-Koyun Gorge to explore Tash-Rabat, a remarkably preserved 15th-century stone caravanserai. A journey to the southern frontier near the Chinese border, concluding with a night in a traditional yurt camp.
Day 08
The high frontier
Tash-Rabat – Chatyr-Kul
A deep expedition to the high-altitude frontier. Visit the serene, protected Lake Chatyr-Kul (3,500m+) before arriving at a remote yurt camp in the Kok-Kiya Valley.
Day 09
The hidden lake
Kel-Suu – Naryn
A horseback trek to the mysterious "disappearing" Lake Kel-Suu, hidden within a dramatic canyon of sheer cliffs. After exploring its turquoise waters, return to Naryn for a hotel stay.
Day 10
Final farewells
The road to Bishkek
A scenic drive back to the capital. Celebrate the journey's finale with an exclusive farewell dinner and wine tasting.
Celestial Lakes

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Travel insurance is NOT included. We recommend a comprehensive policy (around $50) covering medical emergencies. In an emergency, we'll help you reach care, but costs are your responsibility.