The Best Season for Trekking in Kyrgyzstan

From mid-June to early September is considered the optimal time for trekking in Kyrgyzstan. During this period, many mountain passes are freed from their snowy blankets, granting travelers access to a maximum number of routes. The warm weather ensures a comfortable trek, allowing enthusiasts to revel in splendid views and the unique fauna of the region. The majority of trekking routes traverse altitudes exceeding 3000 meters above sea level, and it is only during the summer, when the snow has mostly receded, that exploring these areas becomes most comfortable.

Another advantage of summer tours in Kyrgyzstan is the opportunity to combine trekking with classic relaxation. For instance, you can unwind on the shores of Lake Issyk-Kul, staying in a guesthouse or setting up a camp. You can also visit the high-altitude Lake Son-Kul, a place inhabited by nomads. Son-Kul is open to tourists only in the summer; during the rest of the year, the roads leading to it are closed due to snow.

However, one challenge during summer is the scarcity of mountain guides and porters in Kyrgyzstan. As their numbers are limited, timely booking of your trek is crucial to avoid potential service shortages. We provide some advice on how to correctly book a trekking tour in Kyrgyzstan, ensuring your journey is free of unpleasant surprises.

In April and May, trekking is also possible, but conditions will be somewhat different. Many trails may still be covered in snow, and not all routes will be accessible. High-altitude passes are usually not traversed during this season, but there's an opportunity to choose lower-altitude routes for short hikes. In this season, it's feasible to organize 2-4 day treks, although nights in the mountains may be chilly.

With the onset of late autumn and winter, the mountains experience cold weather and deep snow. During this period, it's possible to conduct radial one-day treks without overnight stays in the mountains. However, this season also presents a unique opportunity to explore the region in unusual conditions. The advantage is the ability to undertake several short routes while maintaining comfort in the expected cold temperatures.

For example, when planning a trekking route in Kyrgyzstan during winter, you can use transfers between cities and visit various gorges. Popular options from Bishkek include tours to the Ala-Archa gorge (where you can ascend to 3200 meters in winter); Karakol offers trips to the Karakol, Jeti-Oguz, and Barskaun gorges. The Jyrgalan area also provides interesting possibilities.