# Karakol Peak Base & Ala-Kul Trek - 4 Days

A slower Ala-Kul trek with one extra day in the mountains. You walk up Karakol Gorge, reach the foot of Karakol Peak (5,216 m) among moraines and hanging glaciers, camp by Ala-Kul, then cross Ala-Kul Pass at 3,906 m down to the Altyn-Arashan hot springs. Two nights at altitude before the lake make the big climb easier. For hikers who would rather not rush.

- Duration: 4 days
- Type: Off-the-beaten-path
- Starts and ends in: Karakol
- Pace: Moderately paced
- Activities: trekking - 4 days
- Accommodation: 1 night at yurt camp, 2 nights at tent camp
- Price: on request (depends on group size, season and options). Free quote, no prepayment to enquire.
- Group: small group or fully private, with a local English-speaking guide
- Page: https://azattours.com/tours/karakol-peak-base-ala-kul-trek-4-days/

## Highlights

- Hike to the base of 5,216 m Karakol Peak
- Two nights in tents, far from roads and towns
- Sunrise over Ala-Kul at 3,550 m
- Ala-Kul Pass at 3,906 m, then hot springs below

## Itinerary

### Day 1: Karakol to the lower camp in Karakol Gorge

We meet in Karakol for a briefing and a gear check, then drive south into the national park.

The trail starts in pine forest along the Karakol River. It climbs steadily through the shady gorge and out into alpine meadow. Karakol Peak shows itself for the first time, still far off.

After 5 to 6 hours on foot we reach the lower yurt camp at about 2,500 m. Dinner is hot and plentiful. We keep the pace easy today, because tomorrow the ground gets harder.

- Transfer: Karakol to Karakol Gorge · private vehicle
- Activity: Trekking · 5-6 h
- Meals: Lunch & dinner
- Overnight: Yurt camp (about 2,500 m)

### Day 2: Lower camp to high camp via the Karakol Peak approach

This is the day that sets this trek apart. After breakfast we leave the main valley and climb toward the Karakol Peak massif.

We do not go for the summit. The route takes you to the foot of the peak at around 3,400 to 3,600 m, among moraines and hanging glaciers. Your guide explains the terrain and the history of the peak.

Late in the afternoon we drop to the high camp. Expect a cold night, a clear sky and real silence.

- Activity: Trekking · up to about 3,600 m
- Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner
- Overnight: Tent camp

### Day 3: High camp to Ala-Kul Lake

Two nights at height have done their work. The 1,100 m climb to Ala-Kul at 3,550 m still takes effort, but it feels easier with good acclimatisation.

The trail crosses boulder fields and passes a high mountain hut before the lake opens up in full. The water is deep turquoise and fed by glaciers, with peaks over 4,000 m around it.

Lunch is at the shore, and the afternoon is yours by the lake. Dinner and the night are at the tent camp.

- Activity: Trekking · +1,100 m
- Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner
- Overnight: Tent camp, Ala-Kul Lake

### Day 4: Ala-Kul Lake to Karakol via Ala-Kul Pass and Altyn-Arashan

After one more early morning at the lake, we climb 350 m to Ala-Kul Pass at 3,906 m. The top gives the widest view of the trek, with the Terskey Ala-Too in every direction.

The way down starts on loose scree, so we take it slowly. Lower down the valley turns green and Altyn-Arashan comes into view.

Lunch is at a guesthouse, then you soak in the hot springs, outdoor pools among the pines. A private vehicle brings you back to Karakol in the afternoon.

- Transfer: Altyn-Arashan to Karakol · private vehicle
- Activity: Trekking · +350 m · hot springs
- Meals: Breakfast & lunch

## Common questions

**How long is this tour?** It runs 4 days, starting and ending in Karakol.

**How fit do I need to be?** It's moderately paced, with 4 days trekking. Good general fitness is enough, and there is no technical climbing.

**Where will I stay?** A mix over the trip: 1 night at yurt camp, 2 nights at tent camp.

## How to book

Send your dates and group size and we confirm availability and a tailored price within 24 hours: https://azattours.com/tours/karakol-peak-base-ala-kul-trek-4-days/#book

- WhatsApp and phone: +996 502 888 001 (https://wa.me/996502888001)
- Email: azatbeyshenaliev1@gmail.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/azattourskg/
- Enquiry form: https://azattours.com/#plan
- Based in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan