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TERSKEY ALA-TOO TRAVERSE

Essential Alpine landscapes of Northern Kyrgyzstan

17 Days 

2/5

Price: $2880

06 July - 22 July

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Style: Hiking

OVERVIEW

TREK STATS

Distance: 101.4km

Difficulty: 2/5

Elevation Gain/Loss: +6130m/-6500m 

High point: 3920m

Days trekking: 10

Lodging: Tents

Group size: 4-8

In the far northeast of the small, landlocked Central Asian state of Kyrgyzstan, home to a people engaged in the deep tradition of a nomadic lifestyle, lies the idyllic Terskey Ala-Too Range. Rising above the bucolic pastures and blue waters of Lake Issyk-Kul, or “Warm Lake,” it is considered the most popular hiking region in Kyrgyzstan.

 

The Terskey Traverse by Great Goat Expeditions offers a rare opportunity to explore some of the range's lesser-known corners, where only a handful of tourists visit annually. This 9 day trek links the region's pristine alpine valleys via a series of high mountain passes, showcasing some of the most breathtaking views in the country. 

 

Along the route, we will enjoy sweeping views of the two most iconic peaks in this region - Peak Karakol and Oguz-Bashi, both standing taller than 5000 metres. From forested valleys abounding with wildflowers to wind-whipped 4000-metre alpine passes, past turquoise blue lakes and spilling glaciers, the immaculate wilderness found along this trek will take the very breath from your lungs.  

 

This hike is perfect for moderately experienced trekkers who have completed at least overnight trek before, and are comfortable walking for up to 7 hours a day. For those seeking full immersion in the Kyrgyz backcountry and nomadic culture, look no further than the comfort and security provided by our highly-skilled and knowledgeable team of guides, cooks, and porters.

ROUTE SUMMARY

Route summary of Terskey Traverse

WEATHER

Bishkek is a hot, sunny city throughout the summer. Daytime temps often climb above 40°C by the midseason. Be sure to drink water and bring a good hat!

 

The weather in the Terskey Ala-Too tends to be quite predictable, but can be volatile at times nonetheless. Throughout our trek storms may develop with little notice, but often with well-patterned regularity - occurring mostly in the afternoons. Lightning is always a serious concern. For this reason we have structured each ‘pass day’ so that we cross early in the morning, when the risk of lightning is drastically lower. In July, nighttime temperatures rarely fall below 0°C at elevations less than 4000m. In the daytime, expect comfortable ambient trekking temperatures between 10° and 25°C. Conditions are more often than not extremely favorable, with beautiful blue skies and cottony cumulus.

 

Conditions in Karakol and on Issyk Kul are perfectly temperate, with significant rainfall being a rarity. Expect beautiful sunny skies and optimal ambient temps around 25°C. It's truly perfect beach weather.

Download our Essential Equipment Checklist Below: 

Learn More with Interactive Maps

TRIP HIGHLIGHTS

Learn about Kyrgyzstan's geology, biology, and history from our highly knowledgeable guides.

Score close-up views of Peak Karakol, Oguz-Bashy, and Djigit - all towering above 5000 meters.

Bathe in the Altyn Arashan geothermal hot springs to celebrate a successful expedition.

Circumnavigate the shore of Ala-Kul Lake and its pristine turquoise waters.  

Stay with Kyrgyz nomads in traditional yurt camps. 

Experience true wilderness along shepherds' trails in the Kyrgyz Backcountry

Cross Passes Archa-Tor, Telety, and Panorama for epic views of the wider Terskey Ala-Too.  

Indulge on delicious Central Asian feasts in Bishkek and Karakol.  

Visit Bishkek's bustling Bazaars, history museums and attend a live music performance  

Soak up the sun on the shores of Lake Issyk-Kul

EXPEDITION ITINERARY

Day 0: Meet and Greet- Arrive in Bishkek

Day 1: Bishkek Tour 

Day 2: Transfer to Chon Kyzyl-Suu

Day 3: Hike to Kara Batak

Day 4: Hike to Djeti-Oguz 

Day 5: Dayhike to Peak Djeti-Oguz

Day 6: Hike to Telety Basecamp

Day 7: Hike to Karakol Gorge

Day 8: Dayhike to Peak Karakol

Day 9: Hike to Panorama Basecamp

Day 10: Hike to Altyn Arashan

Day 11: Rest day in Altyn Arashan

Day 12: Hike to Ak Suu Village, Transfer to Karakol

Day 13: Rest day in Karakol

Day 14: Transfer to Hippohae Resort 

Day 15: Transfer to Bishkek

Day 16: Day in Bishkek (Contingency Day)

Day 17: Departure or onward travel

PHOTOS FROM THE TERSKEY ALA-TOO

What's Included?

What's not included?

INCLUSIONS

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Private (2-person) hotel accommodation in Bishkek, Karakol, and Hippohae.     

Private (2-person) guesthouse room in Altyn Arashan, including access to Natural Hot Springs.    

3/4 season tents provided for all nights spent camping. 

Airport transfer to our accommodation in Bishkek.  

All transportation to/from trailhead via minibus or jeep.  

Breakfast, Lunch and Dinners, Snacks, and Beverages on all trekking days

Breakfast and dinners during time spent in the cities and lunches provided during transfer days. 

Experienced European and North American guides (Including Russian speaking guide)​

Local porter service up to x kg per person.  ​

City tours around Bishkek and Karakol with knowledgeable guides.  (All entrance fees inclusive)

Entrance fee to Philharmonic Live Music Museum in Bishkek.   

Logistical help with Visas (if applicable)​

Essential dining equipment such as table, chairs, cutlery, plates and bowls.  

Access to sauna for both nights spent in Karakol.

Conservation fee for Karakol Valley.

Emergency first aid kit.   

Garmin satellite devices for emergency rescue operations.

Logistical help for onward travel.  

A selection of hot beverages to accompany breakfasts and dinners.  

EXPEDITION DATES IN 2025

2025 Dates
Availability
Price
Deposit
06 July-22 July
8 Spaces Left
$2880
$550

Interested in joining this trip but have more questions? Fill out the form below and we will arrange a free consultation call with us!

EXPEDITION FAQ's

How many people will be in my group?

How difficult is the Terskey Traverse? 

Is altitude sickness likely on this trek?

How knowledgeable are your guides in this region?

What do I need to bring with me on this trek?

How challenging is the terrain?

For more FAQ's, visit our page: 

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