Kochkor, Son-Kul
Four days on foot over the Sonkul-Too range: tents on the pass, a night in a yurt by the lake and 40 km of trail for experienced hikers.
This route is for those who want to reach Son-Kul on their own two feet. We start in the Kara-Keche valley and cross the range in two days, camping in tents by a stream. The trail is steep in places, with about 1,200 metres of elevation gain, but from the pass the whole lake opens up below. We spend the third night in a yurt with herders: after two days in a tent it is a real luxury. Hot tea, fresh bread from the tandoor and a chance to dry your things. The last day is an easy descent to the road, where the car is waiting. A pack horse carries the tents and food; you only carry a light daypack. You need good physical fitness and experience of at least day hikes.
Day 1
Bishkek — Kara-Keche valley
Transfer, the start of the trail, 4 hours along the river. Camp in tents.
Day 2
The pass
Climb to the 3,400 m pass, descent to the plateau. Night in tents.
Day 3
Reaching Son-Kul
Walk across the plateau to the lake, a night in a yurt with herders.
Day 4
Return
A short descent to the road, transfer to Bishkek.
Beautiful route, but the tents were quite worn and one leaked during the rain on night two. Guide was great though.
Reply from the tour operator
Julien, thank you for the honest feedback. You're right about the tent — we've replaced our whole set before the September groups. Glad you enjoyed the route itself.
Серьёзный поход, не для прогулки. Второй день с подъёмом на перевал дался тяжело, но Нурлан держал темп по самому медленному и всё время что-то рассказывал про растения. Вид на Сон-Куль с перевала — лучшая награда. Лошадь с рюкзаками очень выручила. Ночь в юрте после двух в палатке — счастье.
Review in Russian