Ala kul Lake Trekking Tour
Join our adventurous 3- or 4-day small group trekking tour to Ala Kul Lake in Kyrgyzstan, a hidden alpine gem renowned for its vibrant turquoise waters, framed by towering snow-capped peaks and rugged cliffs.
The challenging trek to the lake takes you through diverse scenery: lush green valleys, dense pine forests, rocky mountain passes, and panoramic viewpoints, rewarding hikers with breathtaking views of the turquoise waters of Ala-Kul Lake and a deep sense of accomplishment.
Perfect for adventure seekers and nature lovers, this tour offers the chance to challenge yourself physically while connecting with like-minded travelers. Experience the raw beauty of the Terskey Alatau mountains, camp under starry skies, and create unforgettable memories in one of Kyrgyzstan’s most spectacular landscapes!
Duration:
Expert level: 3 days, 2 nights
Moderate level: 4 days, 3 nights
Fitness level: demanding: you can ascend steep hills of +1000 meters in one day, across rough mountainous terrain and above altitudes of 3000 meters. The maximum hiking distance in one day is 19 km (see itinerary for details). We strongly recommend you do endurance training in advance!
Total trekking distance: 55 km, maximum elevation is at 3850m altitude
Start & Finish: Karakol
Lodging: yurt camp (depending on availability)/tent, 1 night in guest house
Group size: from 3 to 10 people
REVIEWS: What travelers say about the Ala Kul Trekking Tour
Ala Kul Trekking 4-day Tour Itinerary
This is an itinerary for “moderate” level, meaning that you still need a great level of physical fitness to join this trek but it’s at a more relaxed pace compared with the 3-day tour.
Day 1: Transfer from Karakol, hike to karakol valley
Hiking distance: 12km Hiking time: 4 – 5 hours Ascent: 650m
Your journey begins with a scenic transfer from Karakol town to the Karakol Valley trailhead. The trek starts with a gentle hike along the Karakol River, passing through lush pine forests and vast alpine meadows with stunning mountain views.
After 4 to 5 hours of hiking, you’ll arrive at the Karakol Base Camp (around 2,600m). Here, you’ll set up camp or stay at a yurt camp (depending on availability), explore the area if you still have some energy, enjoy a warm meal, and rest beneath the stars, surrounded by the sounds of nature.
Meals included: picnic + dinner.
Accommodation: shared yurt or tent, depending on availability
Facilities: outdoor toilet, no electricity, no wi-fi, no hot shower
Day 2: Karakol Valley to Ala Kul Lake
Hiking distance: 8km Hiking time: 6 hours Ascent: 1000m
After breakfast, prepare for a challenging yet rewarding hike. The trail becomes steeper as you ascend toward Ala-Kul Lake, crossing rocky terrain and gaining altitude steadily.
Upon reaching the lake (3,560m), you’ll be greeted by the turquoise lake and breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks. Spend time exploring the area and capturing incredible photos.
The evening is spent camping near the lake, where you can marvel at the lake’s changing colors as the sun sets.
Meals included: breakfast + lunch + dinner.
Accommodation: tents
Facilities: electricity, hot shower, no wi-fi
Day 3: From ala Kul to Altyn Arashan Valley
Hiking distance: 10km Hiking time: 6 hours Ascent: 400m Descent: 850m
Rise early to tackle the ascent over Ala-Kul Pass (3,860m). This steep climb offers panoramic views of Ala-Kul Lake and the snow-capped peaks of the Terskey Alatau range.
From the pass, the descent begins into the remote Keldike Valley, characterized by rugged landscapes, rolling hills, and wildflowers. From there, the trail descends gradually into the lush Altyn Arashan Valley, famous for its natural hot springs and picturesque scenery.
The day ends with a hot meal at the guesthouse and a well-deserved soak in the warm mineral-rich waters of the hot springs.
Meals included: breakfast + lunch + dinner.
Accommodation: shared room in guesthouse
Facilities: electricity, hot shower, no wi-fi
Day 4: Altyn Arashan Valley to Ak Suu Village, transfer to karakol
Hiking distance: 18km Hiking time: 4 – 5 hours Descent: 750m
The last day of the hike is easy compared to the previous days. You’ll be walking most of the trail in a forested area, so you’ll get a nice shade from the trees if it’s a hot and sunny day.
The walk is mostly downhill and you’ll be walking next to a gushing river for about 18 km before you reach the village of Ak-Suu, the endpoint of this trek. From there, you’ll get transferred back to Karakol city.
Meals included: breakfast + lunch.
Ala Kul Trekking 3-day Tour Itinerary
This is an itinerary for “expert” level, meaning that you need a very high level of physical fitness to join this trek.
Day 1: Transfer from Karakol to Karakol Valley, Trek to Sirota Camp
Hiking distance: 18km Hiking time: 5 – 6 hours Ascent: 850m
Your journey begins with a scenic transfer from Karakol town to the Karakol Valley trailhead. The trek starts with a gentle hike along the Karakol River, passing through lush pine forests and vast alpine meadows with stunning mountain views. As you ascend, the landscape becomes more rugged and remote.
After several hours of trekking (about 5-6 hours), you’ll arrive at the Sirota Camp (around 2,800m), nestled in a peaceful forest clearing. Here, you’ll set up camp or stay at a yurt camp (depending on availability), enjoy a warm meal, and rest beneath the stars, surrounded by the sounds of nature.
Meals included: picnic + dinner.
Accommodation: shared yurt or tent, depending on availability
Facilities: outdoor toilet, no electricity, no wi-fi, no hot shower
Day 2: Sirota Camp to Ala-Kul Lake and Descent to Altyn Arashan Valley
Hiking distance: 18km Hiking time: 9 – 10 hours Ascent: 1000m Descent: 850m
Fuel up with breakfast before tackling the most challenging and rewarding day of the trek. The trail leads you on a steep ascent to the mesmerizing Ala-Kul Lake (3,560m), where vibrant turquoise waters contrast with the surrounding rocky peaks.
After taking in the breathtaking views, the trek continues with a climb over the Ala-Kul Pass (3,860m), offering panoramic views of the Terskey Alatau range. From the pass, you’ll descend into the scenic Keldike Valley, surrounded by rugged mountain landscapes.
From there, the trail descends gradually into the lush Altyn Arashan Valley, famous for its natural hot springs and picturesque scenery. The day ends with a hot meal at the guesthouse and a well-deserved soak in the warm mineral-rich waters, where you can relax and reflect on the day’s incredible journey.
Meals included: breakfast + lunch + dinner.
Accommodation: shared room in guesthouse
Facilities: electricity, hot shower, no wi-fi
Day 3: Altyn Arashan Valley to Ak Suu Village, transfer to karakol
Hiking distance: 18km Hiking time: 4 – 5 hours Descent: 750m
The last day of the hike is easy compared to the previous days. You’ll be walking most of the trail in a forested area, so you’ll get a nice shade from the trees if it’s a hot and sunny day.
The walk is mostly downhill and you’ll be walking next to a gushing river for about 18 km before you reach the village of Ak-Suu, the endpoint of this trek. From there, you’ll get transferred back to Karakol city.
Meals included: breakfast + lunch.
tOUR dates
The Ala Kul Treks are only possible between July 1st and September 15th, due to the weather conditions.
If the tour dates below don’t suit you, contact me. We can add your tour dates and I’ll try to collect more people to join the tour. Booking is possible up to 8 days before the departure date.
Ala Kul 4-day Trekking Tour dates
Ala Kul lake 3-day trekking tour dates
TOUR COSTS
4-day Ala Kul Trekking Tour COSTS
| Number of people | 2-4 | 5-6 | 7-8 | 9-10 |
| Price per person (EURO) | 530 | 470 | 450 | 430 |
3-day Ala Kul Trekking Tour COSTS
| Number of people | 3-4 | 5-6 | 7-8 | 9-10 |
| Price per person (EURO) | 430 | 370 | 350 | 330 |
What’s included in this price?
- English-speaking trekking guide
- 2 nights accommodation (3-day tour): 1 night in Sirota yurt camp (yurt or tent, depending on availability), 1 night at guest house in Altyn Arashan
- 3 nights accommodation (4-day tour): 1 night in Karakol Valley (yurt or tent, depending on availability), 1 night in tents at Ala Kul lake, 1 night at guest house in Altyn Arashan
- meals as mentioned in itinerary
- Transport: transfer from Karakol to starting point of the trek on day 1, transfer from Ak Suu village to Karakol on last day of tour
- Entry fee to Karakol National Park
- Altyn Arashan Hot Springs entry for 30 minutes
What’s not included in this price?
- Accommodation in Karakol
- Meals not mentioned in itinerary
- Insurance: I recommend SafetyWing, HeyMondo or IATI backpacker if you want a good insurance provider for horse riding (in case you don’t have one yet).
- Alcoholic beverages, soft drinks, bottled water
- Sleeping bag (can be rented)
Why choose our Ala Kul Trek?
I’ve personally hiked this trail many times since 2018. Every detail of this itinerary has been carefully refined to give you the best possible experience.
From the moment you book, I’m here to help you prepare. You’ll receive a detailed information guide, packing list, and practical travel tips, and I’m always happy to answer any questions before your adventure begins.
During the trek, you’ll be accompanied by an experienced English-speaking guide, stay in carefully selected accommodation, and enjoy well-planned logistics and good meals, allowing you to focus entirely on experiencing one of Kyrgyzstan’s most spectacular mountain adventures.
At Journal of Nomads, we believe great adventures are built on quality, not quantity. That’s why I work with trusted local partners, keep my groups small, and never compromise on safety, or the overall experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Contact me if you’d have more questions!
Booking & Cancellation
Confirm your participation by filling out the booking form and paying the non-refundable deposit of €60 per person.
Deposits can be made via a standard bank transfer in EUR or via online transfer (Wise) in EUR or USD.
As soon as I receive your booking, I’ll send out the payment details. You have 48 hours to pay the deposit. If not, I have to cancel your participation and reserve the place for the next person who books.
The remaining tour costs can be paid either in cash on the first day of the tour or via online transfer (additional fees might apply) at the latest one week before the start of the trip.
If you have any more questions or want more info, please contact me here!
Cancellation policy
If for any reason you can’t join this tour, you’ll receive a refund of the tour cost – minus the deposit and transaction fees – , if you cancel at the latest 7 days before the start of the tour.
In case we have to cancel this tour due to unforeseen circumstances, you’ll receive a full refund of the tour costs (minus transaction costs).
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