Grasping Kyrgyzstan 

Day 1: Arriving in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan- Ala Archa National Park

Our local team will be waiting for us at Manas International Airport to welcome us to Kyrgyzstan and transfer us to our hotel in Bishkek. After checking in and having some time to rest, we’ll head out to the beautiful Ala Archa National Park for our first taste of Kyrgyzstan’s mountains. Here, we’ll enjoy a scenic two-hour hike to the Ala Archa Waterfall, surrounded by towering peaks, alpine landscapes, and some of the freshest mountain air you’ll ever breathe. We’ll stop for a picnic lunch before returning to Bishkek to freshen up. In the evening, we’ll gather for our welcome dinner at a traditional Kyrgyz restaurant and officially kick off the adventure.

Accommodation: Hotel

​

Day 2: Bishkek – Cholpon Ata – Semenov & Grigoryev gorges – Karakol

After breakfast, we’ll leave Bishkek behind and begin our journey towards Karakol. Along the way, we’ll stop at the resort town of Cholpon Ata, where we’ll visit the Ruh Ordo Cultural Complex and the fascinating Petroglyph Museum overlooking Issyk-Kul Lake. After lunch, we continue along the northern shore of the lake, making our way through the spectacular Semenov and Grigoryev Gorges, two of the most beautiful valleys in the country. By evening, we’ll arrive in Karakol for dinner and a comfortable night’s rest before our mountain adventure begins.

Accommodation: Guesthouse

​

Day 3: Karakol – Karakol Gorge – Kurgak Tor Camp

Maximum altitude: 3000 m/ Hiking distance: 13-14 km/ Hiking time: 5-6 hrs

Today the trekking portion of our adventure begins. After breakfast, we’ll head into the Karakol Gorge aboard an old Soviet GAZ-66 truck, taking us deep into the mountains to the trailhead. The first section of the hike follows a beautiful river valley through untouched wilderness, with plenty of opportunities to soak in the scenery and enjoy a relaxing lunch stop beside a small alpine lake. As the day progresses, the trail becomes steeper as we make our way through dense forests and up toward Kurgak Tor. After a rewarding climb, we’ll reach our campsite near the historic Orphan’s Shelter at an altitude of 3000 meters. Tonight, we’ll enjoy dinner under the stars and settle into our mountain camp.

Accommodation: Tents

​

Day 4: Kurgak Tor Camp – Ala Kol Pass – Keldike Gorge

Maximum altitude: 3860 m / Hiking distance: 8 km / Hiking time: 5-6 hrs

Today is undoubtedly one of the highlights of the trek. After breakfast, we’ll gradually ascend towards the breathtaking Ala Kol Lake, famous for its stunning turquoise waters surrounded by snow-capped peaks. After a well-earned rest and snack by the lake, we’ll continue along its shoreline before making the final push to Ala Kol Pass at 3860 meters above sea level. The views from the pass are nothing short of spectacular, offering panoramic vistas of the surrounding Terskey Ala-Too mountain range and some of Kyrgyzstan’s highest peaks. After taking in the scenery and celebrating our achievement, we’ll descend into the beautiful Keldike Gorge where we’ll set up camp for the night.

Accommodation: Tents

​

Day 5: Keldike Gorge – Altyn Arashan

Maximum altitude: 3400 m / Hiking distance: 10 km / Hiking time: 3-4 hrs

After breakfast, we’ll begin our descent through the Keldike Gorge towards one of Kyrgyzstan’s most famous mountain valleys, Altyn Arashan. Surrounded by forests, rivers, and towering peaks, this valley is renowned for its natural hot springs. Upon arrival, we’ll enjoy lunch before spending the afternoon soaking in the warm mineral waters, giving our legs some well-deserved recovery after the previous days of trekking. Those who still have some energy left can explore additional hot spring pools hidden throughout the valley.

Accommodation: Yurt Camp

​

Day 6: Altyn Arashan – Ak Suu – Jeti Oguz – Barskoon – Ton

Our morning begins with a memorable horseback ride through the beautiful Altyn Arashan Valley, allowing us to experience the landscape the traditional Kyrgyz way. Afterwards, we’ll board the legendary Soviet GAZ-66 trucks and make our way down to Ak Suu before rejoining our bus. Following lunch in Karakol, we’ll continue our journey along the southern shore of Issyk-Kul Lake, stopping at both the famous Jeti Oguz and Barskoon Gorges to admire their dramatic landscapes. By evening, we’ll arrive at our traditional yurt camp in Ton, located near the shores of Issyk-Kul, where we’ll enjoy dinner and another unforgettable night in the heart of Kyrgyzstan.

Accommodation: Yurt Camp

​

Day 7: Ton – Eagle Hunters – Chon Kemin

After breakfast, we’ll meet some of Kyrgyzstan’s legendary eagle hunters and learn about this centuries-old tradition that remains an important part of the country’s cultural heritage. We’ll watch a live demonstration and have the opportunity to take photos with these magnificent golden eagles. Afterwards, we’ll continue towards Chon Kemin Valley, stopping for lunch along the way in the scenic Boom Gorge. Upon arrival, we’ll check into our mountain guesthouse and spend the evening relaxing around the campfire while enjoying the peaceful atmosphere and spectacular mountain views.

Accommodation: Guesthouse

​

Day 8: Chon Kemin – Bishkek

Our final day begins with breakfast before we make our way back to Bishkek. Once in the capital, we’ll visit the famous Osh Bazaar, one of the best places to experience local life, pick up souvenirs, and test our bargaining skills. We’ll also stop by Ala Too Square and explore some of the city’s highlights before enjoying lunch together. The afternoon is yours to relax, explore the city, or grab any last-minute gifts before we gather one final time for our farewell dinner featuring traditional cuisine, live music, and cultural performances. Later that night, we’ll transfer to the airport for our journey home. It may be the end of the trip but I guarantee you the bonds formed this week will never be forgotten for they are stronger than the mountains we hiked. Merely 8 days ago some of us were strangers, but now we’re one big Grasper Family!

Accommodation: Hotel