ISSYK ATA TREK

Overview

Trip code: IALM

Trip season: 01/07-31/09

Duration: 5 days

Group size:  1-16 pax

Price: Please refer to Trek Dossier for the most up-to-date information.

Description: This five day trek goes thru the valleys of Kyrgyz range which rises above Bishkek - capital city of Kyrgyzstan. The trek provides the travellers with some of the most beautiful and picturesque scenery of Northern Kyrgyzstan: snow capped peaks and mountain ranges, passes, fur tree forests and juniper groves, hot springs of Issyk-Ata and Alamedin valleys and also many mountain lakes which change the colour depending on the weather from blue to dark green and turquoise. The tour begins and ends with the opportunity to visit some of Kyrgyzstan's finest cultural and historical treasures.

Route: The route begins with drive to Issyk-Ata valley located on the northern slopes of Kyrgyz range. At the end of the motor road there is a health resort "Issyk-Ata" based on local curative hot springs known from time immemorial. There will be time to swim in hot springs before we will start trek up the valley. Also here, porters take over and carry personal luggage and camping gear for the trek through stunning mountain scenery. The trekking route, known as 'Issyk Ata Trek', goes through cool juniper groves and passes crystal clear Ashuu Tor lakes, many tempestuous rivers, high glaciated summits and a wide variety of colourful panoramas. The alpine meadows are extremely beautiful with a profusion of flowers and lush grass pastures. Several Golden Eagles have their home here along with other colourful bird-life. There will be time at the end of the trek for sightseeing and shopping in Bishkek's bazaars, and we will gather together for a banquet on the last night.

Grade: Steady - The tour is five days trekking on foot. Paths are generally in good shapes. Mountain passes are steep but not technically difficult. The trek is porter-assisted, so you need to carry only a day pack with some of your belongings. Average walking time is around 5-6 hours per day. Daily altitude gain is about 500-800 m. You must be reasonably fit to attempt this trek. Trekking/hiking and camping background advisable but not essential.

Trek Crew: The trek is assisted by guide, cook and porters to carry camping gear for the trek.

Map: