Arrival and Team Dinner

Bishkek - Upon arriving in Bishkek, guests will be greeted by a team member and transferred to their accommodation. A private room will be provided, shared with one or two other expedition members.

The afternoon will include a gear check, allowing time for any necessary purchases or adjustments to packs. In the evening, an expedition briefing will be held, offering guests the chance to ask questions about the upcoming journey, followed by a traditional Central Asian feast at one of the city’s top restaurants.

Bishkek City Tour

State History Museum - After enjoying breakfast at the hotel, the group will embark on a tour of the former Soviet city, exploring its most iconic attractions. The tour will start at Bishkek’s political center, Ala-Too Square, with an option to visit the State History Museum to delve into Kyrgyzstan’s rich history.

Osh Bazaar - In the afternoon, the group will visit the bustling Osh Bazaar, one of Central Asia’s most impressive markets, where guests can savor a traditional Kyrgyz lunch and explore the endless maze of street stalls.

While navigating the vibrant bazaar, last-minute personal snacks and supplies for the trek can be purchased, followed by a few hours of rest back at the accommodation.

Kyrgyz State Philharmonic Hall - In the evening, if time and schedule allow, a traditional performance at the national Philharmonic Hall will be attended, followed by another Kyrgyz dinner at a nearby restaurant.

Suusamyr Valley Nomads

Suusamyr Valley - The day begins early to avoid the westbound Bishkek traffic. The journey will take the group out of the Chui Valley over the high Too-Ashuu Pass, descending onto the expansive Suusamyr Plateau. Here, a stop will be made to sample koumiss, a sour, effervescent alcoholic drink made from fermented mare’s milk, best enjoyed in late spring.

The night will be spent in a traditional Kyrgyz yurt, or Boz-Ui. Before nightfall, there will be an opportunity for an evening stroll or ride around the vast jailoo.

Trek to Kara-Kul Shepherd’s Camp

Trek to Kutmankul Lake (Holy Lake)

Trek to Djay-Terek

Arslanbob Walnut Forest - After a breakfast with a lake view, the day begins with a gentle descent to Kutmankul’s sister lake, passing several yurt camps inhabited by the friendly nomads of the Jalal-Abad region. A steep 400-meter ascent up a narrow ravine follows, reaching a local high point at 3050 meters, offering spectacular panoramic views.

The remainder of the day involves following well-defined shepherd trails over lush rolling hills with impressive open views in every direction. Most of the elevation gain occurs in this section as the terrain rolls consistently for several kilometers, but the trail remains in good condition, allowing for good progress and arrival at camp later in the afternoon.

Trek Stats: 17.6km, +930m, -1420m
Difficulty: 4/5

Trek to Arslanbob

Rest Day in Arslanbob

Walnut Forests to Kyzyl-Unkur

Arslanbob Walnut Forest - Reluctantly, it’s time to leave Arslanbob. The journey continues east through the deepest part of the forest. The soft shade and tall wildflowers invite exploration into the heart of the grove. By midday, the group will pass through a proposed conservation area, where locals are advocating for a new national park. A picnic will be enjoyed beneath the beautiful tree canopies, accompanied by birdsong and a stroll through the tall understory flowers.

Towards the end of the day, as the descent from the plateau into Kyzyl-Unkur begins, the emergence of unusual red sandstone cliffs and spires will be noticeable. These will characterize the days ahead. After one final climb over such a feature, the descent into town leads to the homestay for the night, arranged through the CBT program.

Trek Stats: 22.6km, +880m, -1100m
Difficulty: 4/5

Trek to Otuz-Art Shepherd’s Camp

Trek to Otuz-Art High Camp

Trek to Kapka-Tash Lake via Otuz-Art Pass

Trek to Kara-Suu Lake

Contingency Day

Transfer to Bishkek past Toktogul Reservoir

Ala Archa National Park or Free Day

Ala-archa National Park - The final day of the trip offers guests the freedom to explore as they wish. Bishkek is a city with much to offer: vibrant cafes, a variety of fascinating museums, and numerous leafy city parks. For those interested in learning more about Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan, or Soviet history, a guided exploration of the city is available. In the evening, the group will gather for a final meal, share some last-minute surprises, and bid farewell.

Departure

Bishkek - Assistance with onward travel is available for guests. For those staying in the country or region, advice on what to do next can be provided. For those flying home, help with booking taxis and transportation to ensure timely arrival at the airport will be offered.

• Private transportation
• Emergency first-aid and GPS rescue service
• Horse Porter service
• Private accommodation on all city nights
• All meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
• Tents and kitchen included

• Souvenirs and Alcohol
• Tips for staff
• Personal Travel and Medical Insurance
• Personal trekking equipment and gear

In the heart of Kyrgyzstan’s ethnically diverse southern region, the lush Fergana Range stands proudly. At the foot of Grandfather Mountain, known as Gora Babash-Ata, lies Arslanbob. This tranquil Uzbek village is surrounded by a vast walnut forest, with deep green hues climbing the mountain’s slopes to merge with a vibrant subalpine landscape. Brightly cultivated grain fields, bordered by a wide variety of wildflowers, are nestled within the forests, while striking blue lakes punctuate the towering limestone crags above. Further away, the walnut forests transition into juniper, wild onion, and resilient lily expanses. Surreal sandstone formations emerge from the canopy, carved by clear rivers.

Introducing the Forests and Fields of Jalal Abad Trek - a captivating journey into Kyrgyzstan’s enchanting near-south. This trek is perfect for those eager to explore valleys untouched by time, where life unfolds at a gentle pace.

If you cancel at least 6 full day(s) before the scheduled departure time, you will receive a full refund.
If you cancel between 2 and 6 day(s) before the scheduled departure time, you will receive a 50% refund.
If you cancel within 2 day(s) of the scheduled departure, you will receive a 0% refund.