Alatay Lake Camping Tour — 2 Days from Bishkek

Alatay Lake is the centrepiece of Alatay State Nature Park, established in 2016 in the Toktogul district of Jalal-Abad Region. The lake sits at 2,300 m above sea level in the untouched mountain terrain of the western Tian Shan.

The park is almost entirely off the tourist trail. Snow leopard and brown bear — both listed in the Red Book of Kyrgyzstan — inhabit the area, and around 450 plant species grow here, 10% of them endemic. On the trail to the lake, you'll pass sandstone canyons that are rare for Kyrgyzstan.

The route from Bishkek crosses Too-Ashuu Pass with a panoramic view of the Suusamyr Valley, then winds through Chychkan Gorge. A 4WD vehicle takes you the final stretch to the lake. Overnight in tents on the shore — all camping essentials included.

What to Expect

• Too-Ashuu Pass and Kolbaev Tunnel
• Suusamyr Valley panorama
• Chychkan Gorge with a café breakfast stop
• Alatay State Nature Park
• Alatay Lake at 2,300 m
• Overnight camping on the lakeshore

Included

• Comfortable transfer
• 4WD vehicle to the lake
• Guide
• Tent, sleeping mat and sleeping bag
• Gas and camping stove for boiling water
• Eco fees and site entry

Not Included

• Meals en route
• Food and water for camp
• Personal gear
• Personal expenses

What to Bring

• Trekking or sturdy sports shoes
• Warm clothing: jacket, hoodie, trousers
• Rain jacket
• Cap or sun hat
• Sunscreen and sunglasses
• Headlamp / torch
• Extra socks and spare clothes
• Power bank
• Food and water for 2 days