Kyrgyzstan: Hiking in the Tien Shan Mountains

Because of its many mountain ranges, Kyrgyzstan’s temperatures vary depending on location. In Bishkek in the summer and early fall, we can generally expect daytime temperatures to be in the high 60s°F to mid 80s°F (and sometimes hotter during the summer). In Cholpon Ata, temperature ranges will be fairly similar, with cooler evenings. Karakol and the southeast shores of Lake Issyk-Kul are similar as well, with daytime temperatures in the 80s°F and nighttime lows in the 60s°F. In Song Kol, where the elevation is higher, temperatures will be colder, especially at night. No matter the time of year, snow is a possibility at the higher elevations, especially at our tented and yurt camps (in Kyzyl Suu and Song Kol). While nighttime temperature at our camps can dip to the 30s°F and 40s°F, daytimes are pleasant, in the 60s°F and 70s°F. Rain storms are common through the summer. As always with hiking trips in mountainous regions, warm layers are your best friend, and good rain gear, especially a Gore-Tex jacket, should always be in your day pack.

We stay in comfortable hotels in Bishkek and Karakol. Other days we’re in more basic guesthouses, tent camps, or yurt camps. Yurts are still used by nomadic shepherds in the summer months when they travel into mountain pastures, and we get an authentic taste of the traditions and cultures of the Kyrgyz people while staying in these camps. Tents and yurts are private, and you’ll sleep on a cot with a sleeping bag or linens, but there is a communal eating area and a communal toilet area (for 8 nights). Note that while our tent camp has no showers, our yurt camp does. While we may have the use of hot water for showers, please understand that this is not always possible—be prepared for a brisk rinse if needed. Our tented camps also have no charging facilities, while the yurt camps have limited charging availability. Single rooms can be requested, but are not guaranteed. Wilderness Travel will do its best to secure single rooms for those who pay the single supplement, but even if this is confirmed in advance, arrangements may change during the trip.

All breakfasts, lunches, and dinners are included, except breakfast on Day 1. Full breakfasts are included at hotels. When possible, we have arranged meals at local restaurants and in family homes. Village food tends to simpler than city food, but sampling it is an excellent opportunity to experience rural life. Communal meals are representative of traditional nomadic dishes and include a variety of fruits and vegetables, along with meats and heartier dishes. Please note that special diets may be difficult to accommodate on this trip. Bottled water is provided throughout the trip.

Road conditions can be very basic, and trip members should be prepared for drives of 3-6 hours on some days. Our expedition travels to areas that have experienced very little tourism. While traveling in rural areas, we may have stretches without public bathroom facilities, and you may need to do what the locals do and opt for a “nature break.” The most important requirements for this trip are a spirit of adventure and the understanding that you are visiting a remote and fascinating region.

Adventure travel often involves exotic destinations, unusual levels of physical exertion, or activities you may not have participated in previously. We work hard to help you choose the right trip for you, paying attention to your individual interests, abilities, and needs. If you have questions about the level of comfort or any of the activities described in this itinerary, please call Wilderness Travel at 1-800-368-2794 and ask for the Asia Manager or email us at asia@wildernesstravel.com.