Itinerary
Day 1 – You will meet your guide in the hotel lobby 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 –
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 – 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 – Following 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 – 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 – 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