Ski Tour in Kyrgyzstan

Private tour

Price

On request

Availability

December-February

Duration

11 days

Difficulty

Moderate-Hard

Tour type

Ski & Freeride

Overview

Join us for an 11-day trip around Kyrgyzstan, starting in Bishkek and heading out to see beautiful places like Karakol and more. We’ll go through the old Boom valley, ski down famous Karakol slopes, and relax in the peaceful Aksuu valley. Enjoy skiing in the grand Karakol valley and spend cozy nights in a yurt under the stars. This trip is full of exciting outdoor fun and a chance to see the local culture. See the stunning Issyk-Kul lake and the magical Fairytale canyon, and finish off with a special dinner back in Bishkek. It’s a perfect mix of fun, culture, and chill time.

Highlights

Scenic drives through Boom valley and Silk Road routes
Skiing and ski touring in Karakol and Aksuu valley
Visits to Issyk-Kul lake and Fairytale canyon
Cozy nights in yurts and a festive dinner in Bishkek

Itinerary

Day 1. From Airport Manas to Karakol

Once you arrive at Manas Airport or in the city of Bishkek (for those who get there a day early), we’ll start our exciting journey to the city of Karakol. Our path leads us through the historic Boom valley, once traveled by the ancient Silk Road traders. Along the way, we’ll enjoy the stunning sights along the north side of Issyk-Kul lake, which is the second biggest mountain lake in the whole world, just after Lake Titicaca. Our first day ends with a comfortable stay in a hotel located in Karakol.
Distance: 450 km

Day 2. From Karakol to the Ski Base

Our adventure today takes us to the well-known Karakol ski base, a spot famous for once being the training grounds for the Soviet Olympic team. The beautiful, thick fir forests around make it an ideal place for skiing. We’ll split into two groups: those eager to ski right at the base and those who are adventurous enough to start a ski tour heading towards the base of the majestic Peal Prjevalsky. After a day full of skiing, we’ll return to our hotel for a good night’s rest.
Distance: 30 km

Day 3. Ski Touring in Karakol Valley

The Karakol Valley awaits us today, surrounded by towering mountains and lush forests. While ski touring, we might even catch a glimpse of wildlife such as wild boars and deer. As we reach higher grounds, breathtaking views of Issyk-Kul lake and the surrounding landscapes will unfold before us. We’ll conclude our day with another comfortable stay in our hotel, sharing stories of the day’s adventures.

Day 4. Moving to Aksuu Valley

Today, we venture deeper into the serene beauty of the Aksuu Valley. Our yurt camp, set at an elevation of 2600 meters, offers not just a peaceful retreat away from the bustling world but also ski opportunities from heights up to 3800 meters. You can look forward to relaxing in a hot sauna and dipping into a heated pool with a beer in hand. We’ll enjoy a hearty dinner and spend the night in the cozy yurt camp, under the stars.
Distance: 15 km

Day 5. A Full Day of Skiing in Ak-Suu Valley

We dedicate the entire day to ski touring in the secluded Ak-Suu Valley, embracing the quiet and pristine nature. The evening promises a repeat of the previous night’s relaxation — a soothing sauna and a warm pool await. Dinner will be served at the yurt camp, followed by another night spent amidst the tranquil surroundings of the valley.

Day 6. From Ak-Suu to Jyrgalan

This morning offers some leisure time or an option for a quick ski session. Soon after, we’ll move towards the Jyrgalan Valley, another splendid ski location. Awaiting us there is a delightful dinner and accommodations in a guesthouse that comes with the luxury of private showers and toilets, not forgetting a hot sauna to relax in.
Distance: 70 km

Days 7 and 8. Skiing Full Days in Jyrgalan

Situated on the eastern shores of Issyk-Kul lake, Jyrgalan is blessed with heavy snowfalls, creating perfect conditions for ski touring. We’ll spend the next two full days exploring its diverse slopes, enjoying the crisp air and fresh snow, and ending our days warming up in the sauna. Nights will be spent in this beautiful valley, allowing us to fully soak in the tranquility.

Day 9. From Jyrgalan Back to Karakol

Wrapping up our ski touring in Jyrgalan, we’ll make our way back to Karakol, preparing ourselves for the journey back to Bishkek the next day. A comfortable hotel in Karakol will be our rest spot for the night, ensuring we’re well-rested for the travels ahead.
Distance: 60 km

Day 10. Karakol to Bishkek

Our return journey to Bishkek will take us along the picturesque southern shore of Issyk-Kul lake. We’ll make a memorable stop at the Fairytale Canyon, known for its unique and whimsical rock formations. Once in Bishkek, we’ll take a brief city tour, then celebrate our journey with a festive dinner at the traditional Supara restaurant. The night will be spent in a hotel, wrapping up our adventure with comfort.
Distance: 400 km

Day 11. From Bishkek to Airport Manas

On the final day, we’ll depart from our hotel in Bishkek and head towards Manas Airport. This marks the end of our unforgettable ski adventure through Kyrgyzstan’s stunning landscapes and cultural treasures.

Prices

To get prices for this tour, please Request the Tour or Get in Touch with Us.

Included / Excluded

Hotel and yurt stays
English-speaking guide
Meals as per itinerary
All tour-related transport
Entry and ecological fees
Drinking water and border permits

Single room surcharge
Personal and souvenir expenses
Alcohol and soft drinks
International flight fares
Ski equipment rental
Tips for guide and driver

Map

Gallery

Additional info

Clothes & Equipment

You can bring everything you need. Remember that in the summer, Bishkek can get as hot as 40 degrees Celsius, and it can be as cold as minus 5 degrees Celsius in the mountains. Be ready for sudden changes in the weather.

Recommended:

Rain-coat
Waterproof pants
Sweater/fleece
Wind-stopper
Enough t-shirts and other underwear (think of taking smth with long sleeves to avoid sunburns)
Power bank (to charge devices)
Hat (remember – the sun can be violent)
Sun-screen cream (30 or higher)
Insect repellent (skin + clothes)
Good, waterproof trekking boots for easy hikes in the mountains.
Walking shoes (don’t need heavy ones) for the city walks
Personal first aid kit (most likely problems: blisters, sunburns, allergy, diarrhoea, sore muscles after hikes. Take painkillers, anti-histaminic, antibiotics of general action, and anything you need for your usual medical conditions).
Personal hygiene kit (disinfection gel is highly recommended) + some toilet paper.
A small towel
Swimming suit (for Issyk-Kul)
Sunglasses
A smaller backpack, except for your normal suitcase.
Flash light (torch)
Walking poles if needed

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