Explore one of the very appealing and strenuous treks in Kyrgyzstan. The Asian Patagonia Trek opens the scenic and glaciated views of Turkestan Mountains of Pamir Range that are still unknown…for now. This off-the-beaten-track tour combines some of the best landscapes, trekking and nomadic cultural experiences in all of Kyrgyzstan
Highlights from the The Asian Patagonia Trek include:
- Incredible mountain vistas at Dzhalgychy ( 3774 m) and Ak Tubek (4,185 m) mountain passes where you’ll feel as though you’ve landed on another planet.
- Stunning views of snow- and glacier-covered Piramidalnyi Peak ( 5509 m), Iskander Peak (5120m), Ak Suu (5355m), and Aktubek (5125 m)
- Wildflowers on wooded slopes that command a dramatic view of towering peaks
- Community Based Tourism, your use of us will contribute to local communities
Detailed Tour Information about the Asian Patagonia Trek
Tour Overview: The Asian Patagonia Trek
Destination: Turkestan Mountains of Pamir Range, southern Kyrgyzstan
Duration: 11 days / 10 nights
Accommodation: 8 night camping (tents) / 2 nights homestay
Trekking Distance:105 km
Max Elevation: 4,303 meters
Min Elevation: 1400 meters
Total Elevation Gain/Loss: 4435m+ / 4827m-
Months Possible: July – September
Difficulty: Moderate to Demanding
Start/End Point: Osh city
Note: The length of the tour can be adjusted according to your schedule and desired length.
The Map of the Asian Patagonia Trek
DAY 1: DRIVE TO UZGURUSH VILLAGE IN BATKEN REGION, THE STARTING POINT OF THE TREK
Driving distance/time: 300km / 7 hours
Drive from Osh city to Uzgurush village in Batken region. Nice drive in the south of Fergana Valley with numerous villages on the way. Arrive and accommodation in a local homestay.
Accommodation: Homestay
Meals included: Lunch, Dinner
View from Bulzhuma Pass
DAY 2: UZGURUSH VILLAGE – AK-TASH CAMPSITE
Distance: 14 km trekking;
Time: 6-7 hours trekking;
Ascent: 1633 m; Descent: 64 m;
Trek starts through local houses with gardens full of apples and apricot trees. The nice walk continues by wild pistachio trees and walnut orchards beyond the village. We cross the river and begin ascending the Buldzhuma Pass (2894m). The trail goes slowly up to the pass, 3 hours. On top of the pass, the wonderful view of the nearest gorges, the western face of the Piramidalnyi peak, and the gorgeous Ak-Tash Valley opens up. Descend the pass towards the campsite ( 2900m ).
Accommodation: Camping (tent)
Meals included: Breakfast, Picnic lunch, Dinner
View from Dzhalychy Pass
DAY 3: THE DZHALGYCHY PASS (3774M) – ORTO CHASHMA VALLEY – CAMPSITE (3100M)
Distance: 13 km trekking;
Time: 8-9 hours trekking;
Ascent: 1408 m; Descent: 1580 m;
We cross two passes this day. We hike along the Ak-Tash River on a steep and scree-covered trail up to Dzhalgychy Pass (3774m), 3 hours. It is possible to see local shepherds on the way herding their cows and sheep. On the top of the pass, a panoramic view of rugged Turkestan Mountains opens up: the western face of Piramidalnyi Peak (5509m) and Turo Pass (4525m). Descend along a trail down to a gorge for lunch, 2 hours. After lunch, we head on to another nameless pass, 2 hours. Enjoy the scenic view of Orto Chashma Valley and Turo Pass (4525m) on top of the pass. Descend the pass along the stream until you reach the confluence of two rivers. Cross the bridge and turn right to get to the campsite (2800m) surrounded by juniper trees in this beautiful Orto Chashma gorge.
Accommodation: Camping (tent)
Meals included: Breakfast, Picnic lunch, Dinner
Orto Chashma Valley
DAY 4: THE KOSH MOINOK PASS (3260M) AND THE KARA SUU PASS (3790M) – CAMPSITE IN KARAVSHIN VALLEY (2800M)
Distance: 10 km trekking;
Time: 6 – 7 hours trekking;
Ascent: 1083 m; Descent: 1020 m;
We cross two passes on this day. We head on our first Koshmoinok Pass on a winding trail, 3-4 hours. The trail goes through juniper forest passing by a cool spring and finishes at the foot of Kara Suu Pass (3760 m). We hike up to the Kara Suu Pass on a more steep trail, 1 hour. Enjoy the snowcapped rocky peaks of the Turkestan Mountains including the north-western faces of the peaks Kotin (4521 m) and Kreshenie Rusi (4507 m). Descend the pass and cross the Kara Suu River to arrive at a campsite in this vast Karavshin Valley.]
Accommodation: Camping (tent)
Meals included: Breakfast, Picnic lunch, Dinner
Karavshin Valley
DAY 5: TREK TO THE FOOT OF PIRAMIDALNYI PEAK (5509M) – BACK TO THE CAMP
Distance: 10,3 km trekking;
Time: 6 – 7 hours trekking;
Ascent: 599 m; Descent: 547 m;
We hike up to the foot of Piramidalnyi Peak (5509m), the highest peak in the Turkestan Range. The trail goes under the towering peaks of Kyrkchilta (4507m), Asan (4230m), Usen (4378m), and Odessa Peak (4810m). Remember to keep looking behind you to enjoy the views. The views open up as you walk. We cross the glacier to reach the foothills of Piramidalnyi Peak. Enjoy the view and then return to your campsite on the same road.
Accommodation: Camping (tent)
Meals included: Breakfast, Picnic lunch, Dinner
Slesova Usen Peaks
DAY 6: RETURN TO A CAMPSITE IN THE ORTO CHASHMA VALLEY (2800M)
Distance: 10 km trekking;
Time: 6 – 7 hours trekking;
Ascent: 1083 m; Descent: 1020 m;
We hike back over the Kara Suu and Kosh Moinok passes to our campsite in Orto Chashma Valley, where we slept on our third day. Arrival at our camp and a nice rest in this lush valley with the towering peaks in a far southern end of the valley.
Accommodation: Camping (tent)
Meals included: Breakfast, Picnic lunch, Dinner
To Ak Tubek Pass
DAY 7: FOLLOW THE ORTO CHASHMA RIVER AND THE AK-TUBEK GORGE TO OUR CAMP BELOW THE AK-TUBET PASS
Distance: 7,5 km trekking;
Time: 5 – 6 hours trekking;
Ascent: 875 m; Descent: 19 m;
We hike along the Orto Chashma River through a forest of silver birch until the bridge at the confluence with Ak-Tubek Gorge. We cross the bridge and turn right towards the foot of Ak Tubek Pass. Trails gently go through the juniper forest before the shepherd’s house. The trails disappear in the slope of the mountains. We head to the foot the pass where we set our camps. Enjoy the vast view of Orto Chashma Valley from your campsite.
Accommodation: Camping (tent)
Meals included: Breakfast, Picnic lunch, Dinner
Admiralteez and Iskander peaks
DAY 8: AK TUBEK PASS (4303M) TO AK SUU VALLEY (2800M)
Distance: 11,6 km trekking;
Time: 5 – 6 hours trekking;
Ascent: 779 m; Descent: 1444 m;
Today we cross over the highest pass Ak Tubek Pass (4390m) and descend down to Ak Suu Valley for our camping. The trail starts uphill directly from the camp towards the pass, 2 hours. While walking, turn behind to admire the panoramic views of Orto Chashma Valley. We reach the Ak Tubek Pass and be rewarded with the stunning views lush valleys, rocky and glaciated peaks all around. Long descent to Ak-Suu Valley along the scree slopes. The trail is sometimes steep but not technically difficult. While descending, we enjoy facing the views of Iskander (5120 m), Petrogradez (5165 m), Admiralteez (5090 m), Ak-Suu (5355 m), A.Block (5229 m), and Aktubek (5125 m) Peaks. We arrive in Ak Suu Valley and hike down along the river to set up our camp in this green valley of the Ak Suu River.
Accommodation: Camping (tent)
Meals included: Breakfast, Picnic lunch, Dinner
Ak Tubek Pass West Side
DAY 9: TREK TO THE FOOT OF THE AK-SUU PEAK – BACK TO THE CAMPSITE
Distance: 12 km trekking;
Time: 6 – 7 hours trekking;
Ascent: 878 m; Descent: 826 m;
The highlight of the tour comes today. We trek up to the foot of Ak Suu Peak (5355m). We start hiking along the river from our camp all the way to the steep moraine and then to the glaciers. We are now in the heart of the Pamir – Alay Mountains with the pyramid-shape and snowcapped Ak-Suu Peak(5355m). The north face of Ak Suu Peak is nearly 2km long and offers the world’s most challenging climbing routes to ambitious mountaineers. The surrounding peaks as Iskander (5120m), Petrogradez (5165m), Admiralteez (5090m), and A.Block (5229m) add a flavor to our journey to Ak Suu Peak. After we get all the mountain views, we trek back to our camp the way we came.
Accommodation: Camping (tent)
Meals included: Breakfast, Picnic lunch, Dinner
Ak Suu Peak
DAY 10: TO UZGURUSH VILLAGE ALONG THE AK-MECHET RIVER
Distance: 16,3 km trekking;
Time: 6 – 7 hours trekking;
Ascent: 48 m; Descent: 1484 m;
The last day of our trek goes gently along the Ak-Mechet River with a picturesque green gorge back to Uzgurush Village. The same pistachio and walnut orchards start to appear when we get close to the village. Arrive at the village and relax in a traditional homestay.
Accommodation: Camping (tent)
Meals included: Breakfast, Picnic lunch, Dinner
Alexander Blok Peak
DAY 11: TRANSFER TO OSH CITY
Distance: 7 hours driving;
Breakfast. We drive back to Osh city via Batken region, 7 hours. Arrival in the city and accommodation in your hotel after this adventurous trekking journey.
Price of The Asian Patagonia Trek
| Number of people | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 |
| Price per person in USD | 2660 | 2050 | 1760 | 1650 | 1600 | 1540 | 1490 | 1430 |
Included in Tour Price:
- English-speaking trekking guide
- Cook (Cook will be provided over 4 people )
- Shared accommodation in homestays 2 nights (Note: 3-5 person shared rooms in homestays)
- All meals as indicated in the itinerary*
- Transport from/to Osh, Kyrgyzstan
- Luggage service up to 15 kg/person (via horse)
- Horseman
- Personal meals
- Border permit for the Batken region(note: last-minute border permit requests require a surcharge)
- Tent, cooking dishes, gas, etc
*Please let us know in advance if you are vegetarian/vegan or if you have food allergies.
Not Included in the Tour Price:
- Hotel and meals in Osh, Kyrgyzstan, before and after the tour ends
- Drinking water
- Services outside of the standard program
- Tips
- Travel and Health Insurance
- Flights or other domestic/international transport
- Sleeping bag, mat
Join the following group tours for summer 2026
If the following dates do not suit your travel plans, please contact us by email or WhatsApp. We will post a new tour with your dates and try to collect more people to join you to share the costs. Or you can check out our other Kyrgyzstan trekking group tours.
| Tour Name | Dates | Available Spots | Price and Booking |
|---|---|---|---|
| Group 1 | 03 - 13 July 2026 | 8 spots available | Book for $500 |
| Group 2 | 05 - 15 July 2026 | 8 spots available | Book for $500 |
| Group 3 | 15 - 25 July 2026 | 3 booked, 5 spots available | Book for $500 |
| Group 4 | 17 - 27 July 2026 | 8 spots available | Book for $500 |
| Group 5 | 27 Jul - 06 Aug 2026 | 8 spots available | Book for $500 |
| Group 6 | 29 Jul - 08 Aug 2026 | 8 spots available | Book for $500 |
| Group 7 | 08 - 18 Aug 2026 | 8 spots available | Book for $500 |
| Group 8 | 10 - 20 Aug 2026 | 8 spots available | Book for $500 |
| Group 9 | 20 - 30 Aug 2026 | 8 spots available | Book for $500 |
| Group 10 | 22 Aug - 01 Sep 2026 | 8 spots available | Book for $500 |
Trekking Turkestan Mountains – Asian Patagonia – Kyrgyzstan
Climate and Temperature:
Things to consider: Summer conditions in lowers around areas are hot reaching 25-30 °C. However, you should go prepared as for any mountain hike with a range of clothing layers since there is substantial altitude gain during the trek and some of the camps are at relatively high altitudes. Even though summer conditions are generally dry, the mountains do produce their own weather. Rain or even snow might be expected at the higher altitudes. Be sure to carry appropriate layers in order to stay warm and dry.
Luggage
The food items and your backpacks will be carried either by horses or donkeys. You should have a day backpack to put your bottled water, cameras, and the most important belongings. The company has special baggage bags designed for horses to carry the luggage.
The Asian Patagonia Trek Photo Gallery
Ak Suu Peak 
Slesova Usen Peaks Karavshin Valley View from Dzhalychy Pass Orto Chashma Valley
Reviews of our Trekking and Hiking Tours in Kyrgyzstan
We undertook a modified 14 day ‘Epic Kyrgyzstan Trek’ in the Tian Shan Mountains and the Pamir Alay Mountains with Visit Alay. We went as a father-daughter pair, with a tailor-made itinerary, and everything about the trek (with but a few hiccups) was exceptional. We recommend Visit Alay and their products and service unreservedly.
Our trek was in 3 parts.
Part 1 was a trek in the Tian Shan Mountains. Our route was Bishkek-Karakol- Karakol Gorge Campsite- Ala Kul Lake- Altyn Arashan Valley via Ala Kul Pass (4000m). All aspects – pickups, transport, accommodation and support crews – were exceptionally well-organised. It was arduous but so rewarding; the scenery is breathtaking. One of us (dad; age 70!) was a bit slow, but our guides and porters were very understanding and helpful.
Part 2 was a combination of driving and resting. We had two days and two nights at Bel Tam yurt camp on the shores of Lake Issyk Kul, resting and swimming. Internet connections were excellent, so it was a great chance to catch up with family and friends. We then had two nights at Song Kul Lake (3000m). Thence onto Osh via Karzaman and Moldo Pass by car.
Part 3 was a 3-day ‘Be a Nomad Horse Trek’, which was tailor-made for us. Two days were on horseback, and the third day a rest day. Overnight was in yurts with mountain families, who looked after us exceptionally well. Day 1 we left Osh early for Gulcha, and then saddled up for a 5-hour journey to Tepshi Yurt Camp. Day 2 was a 5-hour ride over Airy Bell Pass to Sary Oyi Village/Yurt camp, where we spent 2 nights. We spent our third day walking in the mountains around Sary Oyi (Germe peak; 3000m) and playing Uno with the family! Then back to Osh for a flight back to The Netherlands.
We had to modify our itinerary as one of us (Richard, the dad!) had mild altitude sickness during Part 1, going over the Ala Kul pass at ca. 4000m. As a consequence, we decided not to risk the scheduled part 3 – the trek from Osh-Kojokelen Village to Beshkol Camp and over Sary Mogol Pass and Travellers Pass, and back to Osh, as this involved two passes at 4300m and 4100m. So we organised with Visit Alay HQ to do a 2-day horse trek, with the additional day in nature at the Sary Oi yurt camp. Rearranging our itinerary, and all the consequent questions we had about accommodation and pickups, was never a problem. All of our questions/requests answered swiftly by the team at Alay.
One of us (Emma, the daughter) had specialised dietary requirements (coeliac/gluten-free) and this was accommodated as much as possible. The country is varied in terms of safety for coeliacs, and the hardest part was in restaurants. However, at the shepherd yurts and small home-stays the owners were extremely helpful and accommodating, checking each ingredient and preparing GF food separately. Stick to home stays and yurts if you’re coeliac so you can personally make contact with the (very kind) people making your food.
In addition, we were pleasantly surprised that western toilets were often available!
Cheers and happy travels. Richard (Australia) and Emma (The Netherlands)
Date of experience: August 2025
These are some tough hikes, but very manageable. I was the slowest hiker in our group by far, but Baiysh (lead guide) was strategic in stopping the group at the most scenic viewpoints, where they could take pictures and I could catch up. On steep downhill areas where I felt unsteady there was always Baiysh, Shadi (guide for the second portion), or a porter that were there to literally lend a hand. I am so glad that the second portion had horses to carry our items — our horsemen Nurlan and Sherlik were dependable.
Our lead guide, Baiysh, was one of the best guides I’ve ever had! Supportive, knowledgeable, adaptable. He was always sharing bits of Kyrgyz culture, interacting with everyone in such a respectful way, and was able to problem solve masterfully when our car broke down — there was no delays in the schedule at all. Shadi, our guide for the second portion, was also so supportive and knowledgeable. He was able to answer all of my never ending questions and also anticipate problems before they even arose. The two were such a dream team — one of our trek members has a birthday on our last day of hiking and these 2 somehow managed to get a cake and candles to our remote yurt camp and throw a dance party.
Please do this tour if you get the chance!
Date of experience: August 2025
Practical Information for Trekking and Hiking in Turkestan Mountains of Kyrgyzstan
The following section provides both practical travel information for trekking and hiking in Turkestan Mountains of southern Kyrgyzstan and details specific for this Asian Patagonia Trek.
The best time to trek in the Turkestan Mountains is summer, from mid-July to early September. During this season, the snow on high passes melts, the weather becomes stable, and the long sunny days provide perfect conditions for hiking. Clear skies allow for stunning views of the dramatic peaks and rugged terrain.
Unlike destinations such as Nepal with multiple trekking seasons, the Turkestan Mountains are most accessible and enjoyable during this single summer window.
Packing carefully is essential to ensure your safety and comfort. Here’s a list of essentials:
Warm Layers: Thermal shirts, a fleece jacket, and a down jacket for cold evenings.
Waterproof Gear: Rain jacket and pants to protect against rain and wind.
Comfortable Hiking Clothes: Quick-drying shirts, pants, and sturdy socks.
Sun Protection: Hat, gloves, sunglasses, and high-SPF sunscreen.
Hiking Shoes: Sturdy shoes with ankle support.
Trekking Poles: Useful on steep or uneven paths (rentals available).
Daypack: For daily essentials like water, snacks, and layers.
Sleeping Bag: Suitable for cold weather (rentals available).
Water Bottle & Purifiers: Ensure access to clean drinking water.
Packing Tips:
Use waterproof dry bags to pack heavier items for the horses.
Carry only essentials in a small daypack while trekking.
Store non-trekking items at our office in Osh.
The trek is rated as Moderate to Challenging.
The trek includes trails ranging from 1,400 to 4,303 meters, with the following campsite altitudes:
Day 1: Ozgorush Village – 1,400m
Day 2: Ak Tash Valley – 2,900m
Day 3: Orto Chachma – 2,800m
Day 4: Karavshin Valley – 2,800m
Day 5: Orto Chachma – 2,800m
Day 6: Karavshin Valley – 2,800m
Day 7: Ak Tubek – 3,680m
Day 8: Ak Suu – 2,800m
Day 9: Ak Suu – 2,800m
Day 10: Ozgorush Village – 1,400m
Terrain: Includes rocky paths, grassy meadows, and steep ascents.
Fitness Level: A good level of physical fitness is required, especially for high-altitude sections.
Weather can be unpredictable, adding to the challenge. However, the stunning landscapes and well-supported trekking tours make it a rewarding experience.
During the Trek: Most nights are spent camping, offering an immersive experience under the stars.
Before and After: Accommodation is available in Ozgorush Village, where you can stay in cozy guesthouses to prepare for or unwind after your trek.
There are no additional lodging options along the trail, ensuring a peaceful connection with nature.
Meals during the trek are freshly prepared by a cook or guide to meet the needs of hikers.
Breakfast: Tea or coffee, bread with butter and jam, porridge, or eggs.
Lunch: Light meals such as sandwiches or soup are served along the trail.
Dinner: Hearty meals like rice, pasta, or stew with meat and vegetables.
Snacks: Nuts, dried fruits, and biscuits for energy boosts.
Special dietary requirements? Let us know in advance, and we’ll adjust accordingly!
Vegetarian or Vegan: Please inform the company and guide in advance so we can make proper arrangements for the necessary foods along this tour.
Gluten, Lactose, or Other Food Allergies: Let us know if you have any specific food allergies or preferences. We will inform the accommodation providers and ensure that picnic lunches include suitable options.
Yes, mountain springs along the trails provide clean water. However, for safety:
Use purification tablets or drops for untreated water.
Guides can boil water in the evenings if needed.
Stay hydrated, as drinking plenty of water helps prevent altitude sickness.
Trails in the region reach elevations above 4,300 meters, making acclimatization essential.
Tips to Avoid Altitude Sickness:
Rest Before the Trek: Spend a night in Osh to recover and adjust.
Acclimatize Gradually: Start with lower-altitude hikes to prepare your body.
Stay Hydrated: Drink water regularly throughout the trek.
Pace Yourself: Walk slowly, especially during steep climbs.
If symptoms occur, your guide will help manage them and adjust the pace or route.
Yes, we provide fully guided tours with experienced local guides.
Expertise: Guides have at least three years of experience and are fluent in English (some also speak Russian).
Support Team: Includes horsemen and pack horses to carry luggage and equipment.
Convenience: We handle logistics so you can focus on the adventure and scenery.
We offer both options:
Group Tours: Perfect for meeting like-minded adventurers. Groups are capped at 8 people, ensuring a personalized experience.
Private Tours: Tailored to your schedule and preferences.
Contact us to choose the option that best suits your travel style!
Trekking here is generally safe, but proper preparation is crucial.
Precautions: Travel with a guide, stick to trails, and prepare for sudden weather changes.
Altitude Awareness: Take time to acclimatize and stay hydrated to reduce the risk of altitude sickness.
Emergency Protocols: In case of an injury, evacuees are transported by horse to the nearest village, then by jeep to a hospital. Serious cases may require helicopter rescue.
We recommend having travel insurance that includes helicopter evacuation and carrying a satellite phone for emergencies.
Yes, you will need a special border zone permit to trek in this region. The Turkestan Mountains are partially located in a restricted military zone, and checkpoints are set up along the trail. To pass through these checkpoints, you must have a printed copy of your permit with you at all times.
Permits are usually arranged by local tour operators. If you book your trek with us, we’ll handle the permit process for you, making your trip as smooth and stress-free as possible.
Closest City: Osh, Southern Kyrgyzstan.
Travel Options from Bishkek to Osh:
Shared Taxis: Depart from Bishkek’s central bus station or Osh Bazaar. The cost per seat ranges from $20 to $25.
By Bus from Bishkek to Osh: 14-16 hours via Toktogul. Best for stopovers in Suusamyr, Sary Chelek, or Arslanbob.
By Flight: Quick and convenient (45-60 minutes). Direct international flights to Osh are also available from Istanbul, Dubai, Kuwait, and Sharjah.
From Osh to Ozgorush:
By Car: A 6-hour journey crossing several Uzbek enclaves.