Turgen Gorge Trekking Tour

Explore Kazakhstan's Turgen Gorge, where pristine alpine landscapes, moraine lakes, mossy thickets, and stunning glaciers await. With minimal human traces, encounter wild fauna amid breathtaking panoramic views.

  • Starting Point: Hotel Pickup (Almaty)
  • Tour Duration: 6 Days
  • Available: from June to October
  • Best Period: from August to September
Highly qualified staff
We invest over 300 hours each year in training our staff and guides to ensure top-notch service.
Charity
Our company contributes up to 1% of your service cost to support charitable causes and create a positive impact.
Guarantee
We guarantee the quality of our services. If we do not meet your expectations, we will refund your money.
Experience
With over 26,000 satisfied guests from 67 countries and 10,000+ tours completed, our experience speaks for itself.

Cost Estimate and Online Booking

prices and reservations
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Key Details
Included Features
Booking Procedure
Clothing Recommendations
Tariffs and service levels
Purchase Instructions
Why Choose Us?
Cancellation Policy

6 Days

Distance

69,5 km

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Turgen Gorge Trekking Tour
Private Tour
Elevation Gain: 1700-3930 m. above s.l.
Difficulty: Moderate
Age restriction: 16+
Ensure that you have a current and valid passport with you on the day of travel
If you have any specific dietary requirements, please inform us at the time of booking so that we can make appropriate arrangements. Local cuisine typically includes lamb or beef, dough, and milk products
This trek is suitable for any individual with trekking experience and good physical health. However, be aware that altitude sickness symptoms such as nausea, headache, and weakness may occur

Group size: 1-8 people

What's Included in the Price?

  • Hotel pickup and drop-off; private transportation in a comfortable air-conditioned vehicle
  • Meals (lunch and dinner on Day 1, three meals on Days 2-6)
  • Services of a professional English-speaking guide
  • Environmental fees
  • Tent, sleeping bag, and sleeping pad

Not Included:

  • Accommodation in Almaty before or after the tour (if required)
  • Personal expenses of tour participants
  • Any additional transfers
  • Visa services and registration in Kazakhstan (if required)
  • Insurance

Booking Procedure

  • Select the tour you want to book.
  • On the tour page, use the calendar to choose your desired date and the number of participants. Fill in your personal information and click the Buy Online button.
  • To secure your booking, you need to pay the full cost of the tour. For details on the online payment process, refer to the Purchase Instructions tab.
  • After payment, save your voucher and the electronic receipt containing your order details and payment information.

Alternative booking options:

You can also book a tour by contacting our managers and paying in cash or via bank transfer. To reach our managers, click the round button in the lower right corner of the screen or message us on WhatsApp at +7 (700) 348-00-00 (responses available in English).

Alternatively, you can call us at:

+7 (727) 326-96-16, +7 (702) 006-57-87 (Almaty)

+7 (7172) 76-00-56 (Astana)

Essential items for your tour:

  • Comfortable clothing (such as shorts, pants, leggings, a T-shirt, or a light long-sleeved sweater). A waterproof and windproof jacket. In colder weather, wear an insulated jacket or down jacket, along with a hat, scarf, and gloves.
  • A cap or hat for sun protection.
  • Trekking boots or sneakers with hard soles and high lacing.
  • Change of shoes for camp (light sneakers).
  • Several pairs of socks + a pair of warm socks.
  • Several sets of underwear.
  • Personal backpack.
  • Head-torch.
  • Eating utensils: fork, spoon, cup, plate, water container, and thermos.
  • Sunscreen.
  • Trekking poles (optional).
  • A personal first aid kit.
  • Personal hygiene kit.
  • Insect repellent.
  • Energy bars or other snacks.

Tour Pricing Options

The prices for this tour are based on the Standard tariff, which includes reliable tourist transport in good condition, the services of an experienced guide and driver, hotel stays, and meals.

In addition to the Standard tariff, we offer the following options:

  • Economy: We provide lower-class vehicles for transfers, and accommodations consist of more budget-friendly hotels and guesthouses. This option is ideal for tourists looking to minimize costs.

Note: Be cautious of companies that misrepresent their Economy tariff as Standard. These companies may offer lower-priced tours with poor service quality, such as outdated vehicles and inexperienced guides. They might also operate illegally and neglect essential safety standards.

  • Comfort: This option features high-comfort vehicles in excellent condition, with the most experienced guides accompanying tourists. Tourists stay in high-class hotels.
  • VIP: Luxury transport is provided, and guests stay in upscale hotels. Premium services are offered throughout the entire trip.

If you wish to adjust your tariff, please inform your manager before booking the tour.

For more information about our rates and transport options, refer to this section.

Purchase Instructions

  • Choose your desired date and fill in all required information. The total order amount will be displayed based on your selections.
  • Click the Buy Online button to be redirected to a secure payment page. Here, enter your bank card details to complete your payment.

We accept payments via Visa, MasterCard, and other electronic payment systems. The total amount will be charged in the national currency of Kazakhstan – tenge. The conversion to Kazakhstani tenge will occur at the official exchange rate set by the National Bank of Kazakhstan on the day of payment. You can view the current exchange rates for the Kazakhstani tenge against other currencies on this page.

  • Once your payment is successful, an electronic receipt with your order details and payment information will be sent to the email address you provided. Additionally, you can download and print a voucher for the paid service during your browser session. Please ensure you save this voucher.

For details about the payment service and the security measures for electronic transactions, refer to this page.

Why Choose Us?

Highly Qualified Staff
We invest over 300 hours each year in training our staff and guides to ensure top-notch service.

Charity
Our company contributes up to 1% of your service cost to support charitable causes and create a positive impact. 

Guarantee
We guarantee the quality of our services. If we do not meet your expectations, we will refund your money.

Experience
With over 26,000 satisfied guests from 67 countries and 10,000+ tours completed, our experience speaks for itself. 

Cancellation Policy:

  • If you cancel the tour less than 72 hours* before its start, 50% of the total cost will be retained.
  • If you cancel less than 24 hours* before the tour or do not show up, 100% of the total cost will be retained.

*Please note that if a cancellation notice is received outside of our working hours (evening, night, or weekends) and our managers have not confirmed receipt of your cancellation or change request in writing, the company reserves the right to consider the request when business hours resume. Therefore, we encourage you to notify us of any changes or cancellations as early as possible.

During non-working hours, you can try to reach us through our duty phone, corporate email, or corporate messengers. Duty managers monitor these channels and can respond promptly. If you have the contact information for your guide, driver, or other responsible parties (often listed in your voucher), we recommend reaching out to them directly as well.

Tour Schedule

Day 1
Day 2
Day 3
Day 4
Day 5
Day 6

Almaty – Batan Village – Turgen River – Kairak River – Forest Glade

You will meet your guide in the hotel lobby in Almaty at 8:00 AM, and then you'll be transferred to Batan village (approximately 90 km/56 mi). Upon arrival, you'll have time to prepare before starting the trekking route. The trek involves crossing Turgen River and hiking alongside it until reaching the confluence with its tributary, Kairak River. A lunch break and rest will be taken at this scenic spot. Afterward, we'll cross Turgen River again via bridges and continue hiking until we reach the camping site. The camp will be set up in a peaceful forest glade. There, we'll enjoy dinner by the fire, relax, and spend the night in tents.

Overnight stay in a tent camp at an altitude of 2500 m (8200 ft) above sea level
The hiking distance covered on this day 11,5 km (7 mi)
Hiking time  6-7 hours

Forest Glade – Upper Reaches of Turgen River

After an early awakening at 7:00 AM and breakfast, we'll dismantle the tents and pack up camping gear. Our journey today involves ascending further along Turgen Gorge, crossing Turgen River once more via a wooden bridge. As the forest gives way, distant snow-white peaks come into view. The trail guides us through green meadows, occasionally weaving through expansive juniper thickets. We will take a break at a spring with clean water before entering a vast jailau, or summer pasture. Following a brief ascent, we'll stop for lunch by Turgen River. After lunch, we'll continue uphill through flowering alpine meadows, nearing the snow-capped peaks. After passing a small lake, we'll reach the upper reaches of Turgen River, our camping spot for the night. Dinner will be prepared on a gas stove, and you can relax before settling in for the night. 

Overnight in a tent camp at the altitude of 3420 m (11220 ft) above sea level
The distance covered on this day  10,5 km (6 mi)
Hiking time  6-7 hours

Upper Reaches of Turgen River – Moraine Lake – Glacier of Mining Institute – Another Moraine Lake – Campsite

We will start this day at 7:00 AM. Today's adventure involves a circular hike to the moraine lake and Glacier of Mining Institute. The journey to the lake takes approximately 2 hours, offering a fantastic vantage point to admire the landscape and capture memorable photos. Witness the active melting of the glacier, observing large ice pieces resembling icebergs floating on the lake's surface.

As we continue ascending, we will reach the glacier surrounded by several summits. The highest peak, Turgen Peak, stands at an impressive altitude of 4407 meters (14460 ft). Then we'll proceed to another lake nestled in an interglacial moraine, formed recently due to glacier melting. This spot provides a serene setting for lunch amidst arctic landscapes. Following this, we'll descend to the campsite for dinner and enjoy a well-deserved rest for the night.

Overnight stay in a tent camp at an altitude of 2500 m (8200 ft) above sea level
The distance covered on this day 11,5 km (7 mi)
Hiking time is about 6-7 hours

Special equipment is unnecessary for glacier hiking. The slope is not steep, and adequate trekking shoes are sufficient.

Chon-Turgen Pass #1 – Chon-Turgen River - Chon-Turgen Pass #2  – Chon-Turgen Plateau

After breakfast, we'll hike to the upper reaches of the Chon-Turgen River. The day's trek offers a moderate challenge with minimal elevation gain and no long descents. The initial part of the journey traverses an ancient moraine covered in vegetation, leading to a small lake in the valley of Chon-Turgen River. Proceeding towards the pass, you'll witness the expansive high alpine plateau of Chon-Turgen, boasting altitudes ranging from 3600 to 4000 meters (11810-13100 ft). The prominent peak of Chon-Turgen stands at an impressive 4277 meters (14032 ft).

We'll stop for lunch near a moraine lake. In the afternoon, an exploration of the Blue Lake awaits, its color changing depending on the weather. In calm conditions, the nearby snowy peak reflects in its serene waters. The area is rich in rare plant species, including edelweiss, primrose, alpine poppies, and alpine roses. In the evening, we'll return to the campsite for dinner, relaxation, and an overnight stay.

Overnight stay in the tent camp at an altitude of 3715 m (12190 ft) above sea level
The distance covered on this day 7,5 km (4 mi)
Hiking time is about 5-6 hours

Chon-Turgen Plateau – East Chon-Turgen River – Chon-Turgen Pass #1 – Sphagnum Lakes – Turgen Gorge –  Temirtas River

On this day, we will trek back to Turgen Gorge, traversing ancient moraines and lush alpine meadows adorned with Sphagnum vegetation, forming a soft cushion. These areas typically host this unique vegetation due to the presence of eternal frost. Along the way, we'll encounter four lakes, offering a picturesque spot for a break. The lakes maintain a maximum temperature of 12oC (54oF). Those brave enough can take a refreshing swim in the cold water.

Continuing our journey, we'll revisit a location from Day 2, crossing Turgen River once more. Our route then ascends along Turgen Gorge, leading to the Oi-Karagai Plateau, and eventually reaching the Temirtas River. Following the setup of the campsite, we'll gather for dinner and enjoy a well-deserved rest.

Overnight stay in the tent camp at an altitude of 2835 m (9300 ft) above sea level
The distance covered on this day
 15,5 km (9 mi)
Hiking time 
6-7 hours

Temirtas River – Kairak River – Kairak Waterfall – Turgen Gorge – Batan Village – Almaty

Today, after waking up, having breakfast, and packing your belongings, you will commence your return journey. The first leg involves descending from the Oi-Karagai Plateau before reaching Kairak River. Along the way, you'll encounter a small lake in this area. After crossing the river, the hike continues along a dirt road leading to Kairak Waterfall. At the waterfall, a rest stop is planned, where you can enjoy lunch. The impressive Kairak Waterfall stands at a height of 40 meters (130 ft), and an observation viewpoint allows for a picturesque view.

The final stretch of the journey entails descending via a steep road, leading back to the Turgen Gorge. Eventually, we'll reach Batan village, from where a transfer back to Almaty will be arranged.

The hiking distance covered on this day  15,5 km (9 mi)
Hiking time 6-7 hours

Copy
Day 1

Almaty – Batan Village – Turgen River – Kairak River – Forest Glade

You will meet your guide in the hotel lobby in Almaty at 8:00 AM, and then you'll be transferred to Batan village (approximately 90 km/56 mi). Upon arrival, you'll have time to prepare before starting the trekking route. The trek involves crossing Turgen River and hiking alongside it until reaching the confluence with its tributary, Kairak River. A lunch break and rest will be taken at this scenic spot. Afterward, we'll cross Turgen River again via bridges and continue hiking until we reach the camping site. The camp will be set up in a peaceful forest glade. There, we'll enjoy dinner by the fire, relax, and spend the night in tents.

Overnight stay in a tent camp at an altitude of 2500 m (8200 ft) above sea level
The hiking distance covered on this day 11,5 km (7 mi)
Hiking time  6-7 hours
Day 2

Forest Glade – Upper Reaches of Turgen River

After an early awakening at 7:00 AM and breakfast, we'll dismantle the tents and pack up camping gear. Our journey today involves ascending further along Turgen Gorge, crossing Turgen River once more via a wooden bridge. As the forest gives way, distant snow-white peaks come into view. The trail guides us through green meadows, occasionally weaving through expansive juniper thickets. We will take a break at a spring with clean water before entering a vast jailau, or summer pasture. Following a brief ascent, we'll stop for lunch by Turgen River. After lunch, we'll continue uphill through flowering alpine meadows, nearing the snow-capped peaks. After passing a small lake, we'll reach the upper reaches of Turgen River, our camping spot for the night. Dinner will be prepared on a gas stove, and you can relax before settling in for the night. 

Overnight in a tent camp at the altitude of 3420 m (11220 ft) above sea level
The distance covered on this day  10,5 km (6 mi)
Hiking time  6-7 hours
Day 3

Upper Reaches of Turgen River – Moraine Lake – Glacier of Mining Institute – Another Moraine Lake – Campsite

We will start this day at 7:00 AM. Today's adventure involves a circular hike to the moraine lake and Glacier of Mining Institute. The journey to the lake takes approximately 2 hours, offering a fantastic vantage point to admire the landscape and capture memorable photos. Witness the active melting of the glacier, observing large ice pieces resembling icebergs floating on the lake's surface.

As we continue ascending, we will reach the glacier surrounded by several summits. The highest peak, Turgen Peak, stands at an impressive altitude of 4407 meters (14460 ft). Then we'll proceed to another lake nestled in an interglacial moraine, formed recently due to glacier melting. This spot provides a serene setting for lunch amidst arctic landscapes. Following this, we'll descend to the campsite for dinner and enjoy a well-deserved rest for the night.

Overnight stay in a tent camp at an altitude of 2500 m (8200 ft) above sea level
The distance covered on this day 11,5 km (7 mi)
Hiking time is about 6-7 hours

Special equipment is unnecessary for glacier hiking. The slope is not steep, and adequate trekking shoes are sufficient.

Day 4

Chon-Turgen Pass #1 – Chon-Turgen River - Chon-Turgen Pass #2  – Chon-Turgen Plateau

After breakfast, we'll hike to the upper reaches of the Chon-Turgen River. The day's trek offers a moderate challenge with minimal elevation gain and no long descents. The initial part of the journey traverses an ancient moraine covered in vegetation, leading to a small lake in the valley of Chon-Turgen River. Proceeding towards the pass, you'll witness the expansive high alpine plateau of Chon-Turgen, boasting altitudes ranging from 3600 to 4000 meters (11810-13100 ft). The prominent peak of Chon-Turgen stands at an impressive 4277 meters (14032 ft).

We'll stop for lunch near a moraine lake. In the afternoon, an exploration of the Blue Lake awaits, its color changing depending on the weather. In calm conditions, the nearby snowy peak reflects in its serene waters. The area is rich in rare plant species, including edelweiss, primrose, alpine poppies, and alpine roses. In the evening, we'll return to the campsite for dinner, relaxation, and an overnight stay.

Overnight stay in the tent camp at an altitude of 3715 m (12190 ft) above sea level
The distance covered on this day 7,5 km (4 mi)
Hiking time is about 5-6 hours
Day 5

Chon-Turgen Plateau – East Chon-Turgen River – Chon-Turgen Pass #1 – Sphagnum Lakes – Turgen Gorge –  Temirtas River

On this day, we will trek back to Turgen Gorge, traversing ancient moraines and lush alpine meadows adorned with Sphagnum vegetation, forming a soft cushion. These areas typically host this unique vegetation due to the presence of eternal frost. Along the way, we'll encounter four lakes, offering a picturesque spot for a break. The lakes maintain a maximum temperature of 12oC (54oF). Those brave enough can take a refreshing swim in the cold water.

Continuing our journey, we'll revisit a location from Day 2, crossing Turgen River once more. Our route then ascends along Turgen Gorge, leading to the Oi-Karagai Plateau, and eventually reaching the Temirtas River. Following the setup of the campsite, we'll gather for dinner and enjoy a well-deserved rest.

Overnight stay in the tent camp at an altitude of 2835 m (9300 ft) above sea level
The distance covered on this day
 15,5 km (9 mi)
Hiking time 
6-7 hours

Day 6

Temirtas River – Kairak River – Kairak Waterfall – Turgen Gorge – Batan Village – Almaty

Today, after waking up, having breakfast, and packing your belongings, you will commence your return journey. The first leg involves descending from the Oi-Karagai Plateau before reaching Kairak River. Along the way, you'll encounter a small lake in this area. After crossing the river, the hike continues along a dirt road leading to Kairak Waterfall. At the waterfall, a rest stop is planned, where you can enjoy lunch. The impressive Kairak Waterfall stands at a height of 40 meters (130 ft), and an observation viewpoint allows for a picturesque view.

The final stretch of the journey entails descending via a steep road, leading back to the Turgen Gorge. Eventually, we'll reach Batan village, from where a transfer back to Almaty will be arranged.

The hiking distance covered on this day  15,5 km (9 mi)
Hiking time 6-7 hours

Turgen Gorge
Upper Turgen Gorge
Ледник Горного Института
Blue Lake
Sphagnum Meadows
Kairak Gorge
Turgen Gorge
Upper Turgen Gorge
Ледник Горного Института
Blue Lake
Sphagnum Meadows
Kairak Gorge

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