The Pearl Ala-Kul lake

Discover The Pearl Ala-Kul Lake trekking tour. This adventure takes you through Kyrgyzstan's rugged wilderness. Start your journey in Karakol and explore scenic gorges and alpine meadows. Trek along wild streams to the majestic high-altitude Ala-Kul Lake. This immersive trekking tour in Kyrgyzstan is ideal for adventure travel enthusiasts. Enjoy challenging ascents, panoramic views, and authentic local experiences. Benefit from expert guidance, comfortable camping, and delicious local cuisine. Embrace high-altitude trekking in Central Asia. Book your adventure now and transform your travel dreams into reality!

Tour Highlights:

  • Cross high pass around 4000 m
  • Visit Ala-Kul Lake
  • The easiest tour to Ala-kul lake
  • Enjoy the scenic views
  • Get relaxation in hot springs of Altyn-Arashan valley

The Pearl Ala-Kul lake


4 days | June - September

Visit Karakol

This tour is offered by Visit Karakol Tour Company. As a member of Destination Karakol, this business is actively invested in promoting tourism and community development in Karakol and the surrounding region.

Photo Gallery

Tour Details

Frequency

June-September 

Duration

4 days

Area

Issyk-kul region, Terskey Ala-Too mountains range

Highest point

Pass between Ala-Kul lake and Keldike valley 3860m

Languages

English, Russian

Weather

Rain or shine

Connection

No signal connection

Distance

Total 65km (Walking part 39km)

Level of difficulty

Medium

Price

  • 1 person - 1280 USD
  • 2 persons - 1710 USD (total)
  • 3 persons - 2226 USD (total)
  • 4 persons - 2420 USD (total)
  • 5 persons - 3088 USD (total)
  • 6 persons - 3618 USD (total)

Price Include:

  • English speaking guide (middle level)
  • Cook and porters (the number of porters is same as the number of clients)
  • Full board 3B, 4L, 3D
  • Equipment: 1 tent for 2 person (single accommodation is available upon request for extra payment), mats and table equipment
  • Accommodation in guesthouse or yurt in Altyn-Arashan
  • Hot springs
  • Transportation
  • Payment to Karakol National Park

Price exclude:

  • Sleeping bags (If you don't have then you can rent from us for 3USD per day)
  • Tips
  • Insurance

What Others Say About This Tour

"We did the Ala-Kul track in 4 days with a very funny and friendly team. The organisation was perfect and we never had so much food during hiking trips 🙂 The landscape was absolutely overwhelming and we had much luck with the weather. Thanks to the team, had a really great time with you :)"

Sebastian

Tour Itinerary

Your adventure begins with a meetup at the hotel, followed by a scenic transfer to Karakol Gorge, one of the most famous gateways to trekking in Kyrgyzstan. From the first bridge in the gorge, you start hiking through the picturesque Kurgaktor Gorge, surrounded by lush forests and dramatic mountain scenery.

The trail leads to the cozy Sirota Hut (means orphan in Russian), a small wooden shelter built by Valeriy Nikolaevich Serebryannikov, a celebrated local guide, instructor, and alpinist. The area around the hut is ideal for camping, offering a peaceful and sheltered spot among ancient fir trees – the perfect place to settle in and enjoy your first night in the Terskey Ala-Too mountains.

The trek continues toward Ala-Kul Lake (3,533m), with a challenging ascent from Sirota Hut taking around 2–3 hours. This stunning alpine lake, measuring 2.3 km in length and 700 meters in width, remains frozen from October to May and is surrounded by towering peaks and glaciers. From the pass, the trail descends along a rocky path to the lakeshore, offering breathtaking views of the Terskey Ala-Too mountain range.

The route follows the lake’s edge to a waterfall flowing from its waters. The day ends with dinner and an overnight stay at a campsite in Keldike Gorge (3,200m).

The trek continues with a scenic descent into the breathtaking Altyn Arashan Valley, one of the most beautiful valleys near Karakol. This three-hour journey takes you through lush meadows and rugged landscapes, offering stunning views at every turn. Upon arrival in Altyn Arashan, you can relax in the famous natural hot springs, known for their radon-rich healing waters. The day concludes with a traditional dinner and an overnight stay at a cozy guesthouse surrounded by mountain scenery.

The final day of the trek begins with a relaxed hike through the picturesque Altyn Arashan Valley, following the winding trail down to the lower slopes. As you descend, enjoy the lush landscapes and the peaceful sounds of mountain streams. Upon reaching the valley’s end, a vehicle will meet you for the transfer back to Karakol. After days in the wild, a warm shower and a cozy guesthouse in the town center await you, marking the perfect end to your trekking adventure.

WATER – Stay Hydrated & Safe During Trekking

While trekking in the wild, staying hydrated is essential for both your health and enjoyment. We provide boiled water, tea, and coffee during breakfast, lunch, and dinner. However, boiling water is limited and may not be sufficient for refilling bottles for the next day.

Waterborne illnesses are a common concern on treks. Although many locals and tourists drink directly from mountain streams, we recommend fetching water only from fast-flowing streams or natural springs, which act as natural filters. Avoid stagnant water, as it carries a higher risk of pathogens. If you are unsure about drinking untreated water, bring water purification tablets from your home country, as they are not available in Kyrgyzstan.


LUGGAGE ON TOUR – Packing Guide for a Smooth Trek

Main Baggage

Your main luggage should contain all your belongings and can be left at your hotel before the trek.

Luggage for Porters

Our standard trekking programs (4-8 days) include one porter per person, carrying up to 15 kg, which includes food, tents, cooking gear, and personal belongings (typically 3-5 kg at the start, decreasing as food is consumed). If you have heavy equipment like a camera with lenses or specialized gear, you may hire an extra porter for €30 per day.

Daypack / Rucksack (30-50L Recommended)

Since porter-carried luggage is not accessible during the day, your daypack should contain:
✅ Waterproof jacket & pants
✅ Fleece jacket & warm clothing
✅ Hat, gloves, and sun cap
✅ Sunscreen & sunglasses
✅ Water bottle
✅ Snacks & packed lunch (when provided)

Weather in the mountains can change rapidly, so be prepared for all conditions.


TREKKING GRADE – Physical Fitness & Experience Required

Our treks are challenging and require good physical fitness. Previous trekking experience is recommended. You will hike at high altitudes (up to 3,800m) with demanding ascents and descents, especially in rain or snow.


INSURANCE – Travel Safety & Coverage

Travel insurance is NOT included in our trekking packages. We strongly recommend purchasing comprehensive travel insurance that covers illness, injury, and loss/damage to personal belongings. In case of emergency, our staff will assist in transportation to a hospital or necessary facilities, but without insurance, you will need to cover medical costs yourself.


MEALS – Nourishing & Delicious Food on the Trek

Breakfast Options:

🥣 Porridge, omelet, scrambled eggs, pancakes, boiled eggs
🍞 Bread, butter, jam, honey, sweets
☕ Tea & coffee

Lunch / Lunch Boxes:

🍫 Dried fruits, chocolate, cheese, yogurt, juice
🥪 Sandwiches, fresh vegetables, fruits
☕ Tea & coffee

Dinner:

🍛 A mix of European & Asian cuisine, prepared fresh by our cooks.
🌱 Vegetarian or special dietary needs? Let us know in advance, and we’ll accommodate your preferences.


TIPPING – Show Appreciation for Great Service

The service of local staff is included in the trekking program. However, tipping is a kind gesture if you are satisfied with the service. You may also tip your tour manager for exceptional organization and support.

Tour Map

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