Duration
7 days / 6 nights
Price Per Person
Interests
Skiing
Destinations
Kyrgyzstan

Located in the eastern portion of the Issyk-Kul Valley, Karakol is its own unique landscape surrounded by magnificent mountains. Karakol offers a great deal of challenge and intrigue to fans of backcountry skiing. At 7,546 feet to 11,155 feet above sea level, Karakol’s terrain provides a wide range of slopes for experienced skiers. The Karakol ski base was built during the Soviet era when it was used to train Olympic athletes; today, the ski season runs from December to March and offers 12.5 miles of runs, with opportunities for off-piste skiing.

This itinerary is an example. It’s designed to inspire you and provide you with thoughtfully curated ideas. You can choose to do this exact itinerary or completely personalize it. All trips are 100% bespoke.

Highlights

  • Snow Sports: From December to March, Karakol offers excellent skiing conditions, with off-piste options, gorgeous scenery and perfect powder.
  • Lake Issyk-Kul: Enjoy views of blue-hued Issyk-Kul, one of the largest and deepest lakes in the world, which doesn't freeze even in Kyrgyzstan's harsh winters.
  • Architecture: The Russian Orthodox Church, the Dungan Mosque and the Russian Quarter's "Gingerbread Houses" are just a few examples of Karakol's architectural attractions.

Day-by-Day

Day 1

Karakol

Meet our team at the airport and allow us to transfer you to Karakol on a stunning six-hour drive. Make stops along the way to enjoy local culinary traditions and take pictures in the most beautiful locations. Upon reaching Karakol, enjoy a delicious dinner and comfortable night.

Hotel Options
About

In the northern Kyrgyzstan town of Karakol, it’s hard to find any better place to stay than the award-winning, family-run Green Yard Guest House. Take its location for starters.

This accommodation has been personally vetted by the Remote Lands team and is the best available in the area. More information on this property is available on the “Hotels” tab at the top of the page.

Day 2

Karakol

Begin your winter adventures as you ski and snowboard across the endless mountains in the heart of the Karakol wilderness. When you finish with your challenging and exhilarating day on the slopes, relax in the resort hotel with cocktail, basking in the glow of the fireplace.

Karakol
Karakol

Day 3

Karakol

After a delicious breakfast, enjoy another day of winter fun as you explore new areas of your snowcapped surroundings. Push your skiing and snowboarding talents to the limit, honing technical skills and enjoying the speed and power this remote area allows you to achieve. Later, return to the hotel for a peaceful evening of food and drink.

Day 4

Karakol

Once breakfast is finished, enjoy a quiet stroll through this winter wonderland. Bring your camera to document the natural glory omnipresent in this gorgeous town. After, strap on your skis or snowboard and return to the slopes for an exciting afternoon of action and adventure.

Karakol
Karakol

Day 5

Karakol

Enjoy a warm breakfast, then return to your favorite trails and ski or snowboard until your heart is content. Perhaps set a new personal best while perfecting your form and ability. Once evening falls, return to the hotel and enjoy a final, tranquil night in this glorious establishment.

Day 6

Bishkek

Rise early and enjoy brief final exploration of charming Karakol, visiting the local history museum, the ancient Russian Orthodox Church and the stunning Dungan Mosque. Then, begin your scenic, lakeside return to Bishkek, stopping at the Przhevalsky Museum en route. Upon arrival, check into your new hotel and enjoy dinner at a local restaurant.

Hotel Options
Why We Love This Hotel

Location: This hotel is ideally situated in the center of Bishkek yet within a short driving distance from the international airport.

Services: The only five-star hotel in the country, the Hyatt Regency prides itself on world-class service, catering to guests’ every need, around the clock.

History: Since its opening, the Hyatt Regency has enjoyed a history of acclaim for its excellent quality including being twice named Kyrgyzstan's Best Hotel in the World Travel Awards.

See Hotel
Hyatt Regency Bishkek Preferred Hotel
About

With excellent views of the capital and the Tien Shan mountains, the Sheraton Bishkek is comprised of deluxe rooms, plus junior, king and executive suites, some of which include club access. Rooms are furnished in a warm and homely classic style, with air-conditioning, writing desks, WiFi and terraces.

If our Preferred Hotel is unavailable, this accommodation is a reliable alternative and has been personally vetted by the Remote Lands team. More information on this property is available on the “Hotels” tab at the top of the page.

Bishkek
Bishkek

Day 7

Departure

If your flight is in the evening, spend the day exploring Bishkek: journey through the city, stopping to see iconic sites such as Victory Square, the State Circus, the Opera House, the National History Museum, Ala-Too Square and more. Then, dine in an intriguing restaurant and transfer to the airport: home or your next destination awaits!

Suggested Hotel For Days 1–5

Green Yard

Green Yard

In the northern Kyrgyzstan town of Karakol, it’s hard to find any better place to stay than the award-winning, family-run Green Yard Guest House. Take its location for starters. Set in the foothills of the majestic Tien-Shan mountains, the area offers spectacular views and trips to the nearby ski resorts or majestic gorges are only minutes away. The rooms too, are bright, warm and comfortable, with a choice of ‘luxury’ or ‘standard’ to cater for different tastes and budgets. All rooms come with satellite TV, refrigerators, Wi-Fi and a private bathroom with bathtub - perfect for a long hot soak after a day of enjoying the slopes or mountain adventure. The hotel’s restaurant downstairs cooks up both national and European dishes whilst also providing a cozy and family-friendly atmosphere. 

Suggested Hotels For Day 6

Hyatt Regency Bishkek
Preferred Hotel

Hyatt Regency Bishkek

This stunning, modern destination in the center of the Kyrgyz capital Bishkek proudly holds the title of the only five-star hotel in the country. Within 35 minutes’ drive from the airport, this luxury hotel is surrounded by all of Bishkek’s sights of interest and history including The Museum of Fine Arts, Dubovy Park and the State Opera. What’s more, within the hotel, the facilities are first class. A range of 178 stylish rooms and suites are fitted with the latest amenities and guests can enjoy 24-hour concierge service for any and all their needs. Food lovers will be delighted by the range of cuisines, from authentic Mediterranean meals to laid-back barbecues by the pool. Meanwhile, the chic lobby bar and Opera Lounge are perfect spots for pre-dinner drinks or a romantic night cap. The comprehensive range of facilities on offer in the health club includes an outdoor pool, a spa with treatment rooms and a well-equipped gym so that guests can enjoy relaxation and reinvigoration during their stay.

Sheraton Bishkek

Sheraton Bishkek

With excellent views of the capital and the Tien Shan mountains, the Sheraton Bishkek is comprised of deluxe rooms, plus junior, king and executive suites, some of which include club access. Rooms are furnished in a warm and homely classic style, with air-conditioning, writing desks, WiFi and terraces. Facilities include a health club and fitness center with a sauna, steam bath, spa and outdoor swimming pool. Guests can dine on international dishes at Feast, Indian cuisine at Iwa Roof Bar-Restaurant and grilled meats at Legend Steak Restaurant.

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