Top 7 Treks in Kyrgyzstan Only the Locals Know About

Kyrgyzstan is a hiker’s paradise, with dramatic alpine landscapes, expansive meadows and isolated valleys. Though many like to trek on well-beaten paths such as Ala Archa or Altyn Arashan, the true magic will be discovered on rarely explored tracks, which you’d only get to know through Kyrgyzstan Trekking Tours with native guides.

These off-the-beaten-path gems provide raw beauty and the tea time of life. Here are 7 off-the-beaten-path treks you won’t read about in guidebooks, only from those who call these mountains home.

Jyrgalan Valley to Turnaluu Kol

This remote trek starts on the tranquil Jyrgalan Valley and ascends to a high-altitude lake nestled between peaks. Local guides typically offer yurt accommodation and an initiation into life as nomads for walkers.

Kilemche to Song-Kul Lake

This moderate trek takes you through rolling meadows all the way up to the stunning alpine lake, Song-Kul. It’s mostly visited by shepherds, and a few who live around, with stunning sunrise views and traditional Kyrgyz hospitality.

Canyon of Kok Kiya to the Lake of Kol-Suu

Kol-Suu is one of Kyrgyzstan’s most surreal lakes, long and narrow, and wedged between cliffs. The hike through Kok Kiya Canyon is challenging and requires an experienced local guide who is familiar with the changing river crossings and path.

Terskey Alatau Hidden Loop

A peaceful alternative to the crowded Karakol hike, this loop visits hidden glacial lakes and abandoned shepherd camps. It is great for hiking trips in Kyrgyzstan, for those who crave isolation and authenticity.

Arabel Plateau Traverse

Relatively unexplored by tourists, with an elevation of over 3,500 meters, it is surrounded by snowcapped peaks and is inhabited by wild yak herds. You must be accompanied by local guides here, because of its remoteness and unpredictable weather.

Chatyr-Kul Borderlands Trek

This trek hugs the Chinese border and takes you through remote villages, salt lakes, and ancient caravan routes. It’s cultural and geographically dramatic, perfect for a guide and for someone who’s hit the trails before.

Boz-Uchuk Lakes Trek

Located in the Terskey Mountains, this hike includes a series of alpine lakes that few visitors see, so it’s a beautiful, tranquil getaway. These are often accompanied by folklore related to each lake shared by local guides, thus giving more depth to the journey.

Kyrgyzstan Trekking With Local Guides turns a nice walk into a trek with a purpose. From trekking over treacherous terrain to swapping stories by the yurt fire, it’s the locals who give these obscure trails character.