DISCOVER THE UNTOUCHED TIEN SHAN
Kyrgyzstan is a true hidden gem for backcountry skiers, offering vast untouched terrain and some of the deepest, lightest powder in Central Asia. Far from crowded resorts, you’ll carve fresh lines through remote valleys where silence and snow define the landscape. After long days on untracked slopes, unwind with hearty local meals, traditional drinks, cold local beer, and the warmth of genuine Kyrgyz hospitality, including time to relax in a traditional Russian sauna. Staying in authentic yurts connects you to centuries-old nomadic traditions, adding cultural depth to every ski day. Here, powder, culture, and adventure come together to create an experience found nowhere else in the world.
Dates
Trip Profile
Price
5th -14th Feb
100% Touring
3500 $
Day 1 — Arrival in Bishkek → Transfer to Karakol
Pickup from Manas International Airport (early arrivals recommended).
Private van transfer to Karakol (approx. 6–8 hours depending on road conditions).
Lunch stop at a café on the way.
Check-in at a comfortable hostel accommodation (2–3 bed rooms, shared but clean bathrooms).
Dinner at a local restaurant in Karakol.
Evening session:
Equipment check
Avalanche transceiver refresher
Safety briefing
Group introductions
The group will be guided by two professional guides throughout the trip.
Day 2 — Ski Touring Near Karakol
Ski tour on a mountain area near Karakol (outside the ski resort).
Vertical ascent approx. 800 m (up to 1000 m depending on conditions).
Sandwich lunch provided on the mountain.
Dinner in a village restaurant.
Night at the same Karakol accommodation.
Day 3 — Full-Day Ski Tour
Short drive to access a new touring zone.
Vertical ascent approx. 1000 m.
Skiing on beautiful north-facing terrain, often offering excellent cold snow.
Return to Karakol for dinner and overnight stay.
Day 4 — Karakol → Ridge Tour → Jyrgalan
Checkout from Karakol accommodation.
One-hour drive east toward Jyrgalan.
Ski tour along a scenic ridge leading to a local summit (~3500 m).
After skiing, transfer by van to Jyrgalan.
Check-in at a heated, spacious yurt camp, with:
Comfortable shared rooms
Shared bathroom facilities
Sauna available (extra charge)
Welcome dinner at the camp.
Days 5–8 — Jyrgalan Ski Touring
Jyrgalan is known for some of the best snow conditions in Kyrgyzstan, with diverse routes suitable for different levels and daily objectives.
Each day includes:
Full-day ski/splitboard touring to peaks and ridgelines of varying length and difficulty.
Consistently deep, dry powder and rewarding descents.
Optional snowmobile-assisted access (extra cost, based on group decision).
Breakfast and dinner at the yurt camp; packed lunch provided daily.
Final Day in Jyrgalan:
Shorter morning tour.
Return to camp around midday → transfer back to Bishkek.
Check-in at a central hostel for two nights.
Final group dinner included.
Day 9 — Bishkek (Free Day)
Free time to explore Bishkek, rest, enjoy cafés, visit bazaars, or purchase souvenirs.
Meals not included.
Overnight stay at the city hostel.
Day 10 — Departure
Check out and transfer to the airport for your flight home.
End of trip.
IFMGA Led
100% Touring
Fitness Level(Skin up)
Riding skills
2 different locations
IFMGA Led
Safety is our highest priority. All of our ski expeditions are led by a fully certified IFMGA Mountain Guide, ensuring that every decision made in the mountains is informed, conservative, and grounded in world-class training and experience.
We operate with a strict guide ratio of 1:4, and for groups of up to 10 participants we add a second guide, typically an experienced local guide who knows the terrain and snowpack intimately. This combination gives you the safest possible experience while also maximising your enjoyment.
Touring Trip
This expedition is a 100% ski touring program. You should be prepared to skin uphill each day, typically for several hours at a steady pace. Rest days or easier days can be arranged as needed, depending on group energy and weather conditions.
Additional access options such as snowmobiles or cat-skiing may be available if the group agrees to use them, allowing for bigger objectives or varied terrain on certain days.
Fitness Level
This trip requires an intermediate level of fitness. Expect daily altitude gains of 700–1200 metres on several days. The IFMGA guide will adapt routes and pacing according to group ability, ensuring everyone can progress safely while still enjoying a rewarding touring experience.
If you are unsure about your fitness, we recommend preparing with consistent cardio and uphill training prior to the trip.
Ride Difficulty
To get the most out of skiing in Kyrgyzstan, you should be a confident and competent rider. Snow conditions can vary from deep, dry powder to wind-affected or firm snow, so riders must feel comfortable adapting to changing surfaces.
A good benchmark:
If you can ski or snowboard black runs confidently in a resort, you are ready for this trip.
For the best experience, we strongly recommend bringing longer and wider skis suitable for deep snow, or having a high level of skill with narrower skis if that is your preference.
Accommodation
Throughout the trip, we stay in a combination of comfortable and authentic accommodations:
Bishkek: A modern and well-appointed hotel (final night)
Karakol: A clean and friendly hostel with great local atmosphere
Jyrgalan: A warm, traditional yurt camp — an unforgettable cultural experience
All accommodations are heated, clean, welcoming, and suitable for recovering after long days in the mountains.
Locations
We explore two distinct mountain regions, giving you a diverse and memorable ski touring experience.
Around Karakol, we tour some of the area’s classic peaks and longer summits.
In Jyrgalan, we enjoy different snow conditions, terrain character, and a more remote, nomadic mountain environment.
This combination allows for varied skiing, multiple snowpacks, and exposure to the unique flavour of Kyrgyzstan’s mountains.
Why us:
Daily avalanche and weather assessments
Terrain selection based on current conditions
Mandatory avalanche equipment (beacon, shovel, probe)
Instruction on safe travel, spacing, and group management
Clear communication throughout the tour
Conservative decision-making focused on longevity, not risk
Your guide’s goal is simple:
Keep you safe, help you progress, and make sure you have one of the most memorable ski touring experiences of your life.
Includes:
2 nights in a hotel, 3 nights in a hostel, and 4 nights in a traditional yurt camp
All meals and drinks included throughout the trip
7 full days of ski touring across multiple mountain locations
All private ground transfers during the expedition
IFMGA-certified guide leadership, plus a second experienced local guide for groups of 5–10 participants
Liability insurance and travel insurance included
International flights
Rental equipment (skis, splitboards, boots, etc.)
Safety equipment such as avalanche beacon, probe, and shovel
Personal ski insurance or snow sports coverage
Tips / gratuities
itinerary
Click on the photo!
Day 1 — Arrival in Bishkek → Transfer to Karakol
Pickup from Manas International Airport (early arrivals recommended).
Private van transfer to Karakol (approx. 6–8 hours depending on road conditions).
Lunch stop at a café on the way.
Check-in at a comfortable hostel accommodation (2–3 bed rooms, shared but clean bathrooms).
Dinner at a local restaurant in Karakol.
Evening session:
Equipment check
Avalanche transceiver refresher
Safety briefing
Group introductions
The group will be guided by two professional guides throughout the trip.
Day 2 — Ski Touring Near Karakol
Ski tour on a mountain area near Karakol (outside the ski resort).
Vertical ascent approx. 800 m (up to 1000 m depending on conditions).
Sandwich lunch provided on the mountain.
Dinner in a village restaurant.
Night at the same Karakol accommodation.
Day 3 — Full-Day Ski Tour
Short drive to access a new touring zone.
Vertical ascent approx. 1000 m.
Skiing on beautiful north-facing terrain, often offering excellent cold snow.
Return to Karakol for dinner and overnight stay.
Day 4 — Karakol → Ridge Tour → Jyrgalan
Checkout from Karakol accommodation.
One-hour drive east toward Jyrgalan.
Ski tour along a scenic ridge leading to a local summit (~3500 m).
After skiing, transfer by van to Jyrgalan.
Check-in at a heated, spacious yurt camp, with:
Comfortable shared rooms
Shared bathroom facilities
Sauna available (extra charge)
Welcome dinner at the camp.
Days 5–8 — Jyrgalan Ski Touring
Jyrgalan is known for some of the best snow conditions in Kyrgyzstan, with diverse routes suitable for different levels and daily objectives.
Each day includes:
Full-day ski/splitboard touring to peaks and ridgelines of varying length and difficulty.
Consistently deep, dry powder and rewarding descents.
Optional snowmobile-assisted access (extra cost, based on group decision).
Breakfast and dinner at the yurt camp; packed lunch provided daily.
Final Day in Jyrgalan:
Shorter morning tour.
Return to camp around midday → transfer back to Bishkek.
Check-in at a central hostel for two nights.
Final group dinner included.
Day 9 — Bishkek (Free Day)
Free time to explore Bishkek, rest, enjoy cafés, visit bazaars, or purchase souvenirs.
Meals not included.
Overnight stay at the city hostel.
Day 10 — Departure
Check out and transfer to the airport for your flight home.
End of trip.
Tour info
IFMGA Led
Safety is our highest priority. All of our ski expeditions are led by a fully certified IFMGA Mountain Guide, ensuring that every decision made in the mountains is informed, conservative, and grounded in world-class training and experience.
We operate with a strict guide ratio of 1:4, and for groups of up to 10 participants we add a second guide, typically an experienced local guide who knows the terrain and snowpack intimately. This combination gives you the safest possible experience while also maximising your enjoyment.
Touring Trip
This expedition is a 100% ski touring program. You should be prepared to skin uphill each day, typically for several hours at a steady pace. Rest days or easier days can be arranged as needed, depending on group energy and weather conditions.
Additional access options such as snowmobiles or cat-skiing may be available if the group agrees to use them, allowing for bigger objectives or varied terrain on certain days.
Fitness Level
This trip requires an intermediate level of fitness. Expect daily altitude gains of 700–1200 metres on several days. The IFMGA guide will adapt routes and pacing according to group ability, ensuring everyone can progress safely while still enjoying a rewarding touring experience.
If you are unsure about your fitness, we recommend preparing with consistent cardio and uphill training prior to the trip.
Ride Difficulty
To get the most out of skiing in Kyrgyzstan, you should be a confident and competent rider. Snow conditions can vary from deep, dry powder to wind-affected or firm snow, so riders must feel comfortable adapting to changing surfaces.
A good benchmark:
If you can ski or snowboard black runs confidently in a resort, you are ready for this trip.
For the best experience, we strongly recommend bringing longer and wider skis suitable for deep snow, or having a high level of skill with narrower skis if that is your preference.
Accommodation
Throughout the trip, we stay in a combination of comfortable and authentic accommodations:
Bishkek: A modern and well-appointed hotel (final night)
Karakol: A clean and friendly hostel with great local atmosphere
Jyrgalan: A warm, traditional yurt camp — an unforgettable cultural experience
All accommodations are heated, clean, welcoming, and suitable for recovering after long days in the mountains.
Locations
We explore two distinct mountain regions, giving you a diverse and memorable ski touring experience.
Around Karakol, we tour some of the area’s classic peaks and longer summits.
In Jyrgalan, we enjoy different snow conditions, terrain character, and a more remote, nomadic mountain environment.
This combination allows for varied skiing, multiple snowpacks, and exposure to the unique flavour of Kyrgyzstan’s mountains.
Why us:
Daily avalanche and weather assessments
Terrain selection based on current conditions
Mandatory avalanche equipment (beacon, shovel, probe)
Instruction on safe travel, spacing, and group management
Clear communication throughout the tour
Conservative decision-making focused on longevity, not risk
Your guide’s goal is simple:
Keep you safe, help you progress, and make sure you have one of the most memorable ski touring experiences of your life.
included
Includes:
2 nights in a hotel, 3 nights in a hostel, and 4 nights in a traditional yurt camp
All meals and drinks included throughout the trip
7 full days of ski touring across multiple mountain locations
All private ground transfers during the expedition
IFMGA-certified guide leadership, plus a second experienced local guide for groups of 5–10 participants
Liability insurance and travel insurance included
Excluded
Excluded:
International flights
Rental equipment (skis, splitboards, boots, etc.)
Safety equipment such as avalanche beacon, probe, and shovel
Personal ski insurance or snow sports coverage
Tips / gratuities
FAQ — Before You Join the Tour
1. What skill level is required for this trip?
A moderate fitness level is sufficient to reach most of the summits on this tour. We typically ascend between 700 and 1,200 meters per day, and we adjust the pace based on the group’s overall ability (however, a minimum of 800 meters of ascent per day is compulsory).
While the uphill is manageable for most participants, the downhill riding can vary significantly. You must be confident in your skiing or splitboarding skills, as Kyrgyz snow conditions can be highly variable, including deep powder. Be prepared for deep-snow riding and off-piste terrain throughout the trip.
2. How are the transfers organised?
All transfers between the airport, accommodation, and ski areas are arranged by private vehicle or minivan. Everything is coordinated before the trip begins, so participants do not need to book any transport themselves. International flights are not included in the price however we can help you book your flight if needed.
3. Is this trip suitable for beginners?
This program is not suitable for beginners. If you are new to backcountry skiing, we recommend joining one of our beginner-friendly ski/split touring trips, which are specifically designed for entry-level riders, before progressing to a full touring program.
4.Can I join the trip with my splitboard?
Absolutely yes. Kyrgyzstan is known for having some of the deepest and most playful powder snow on the planet, making it an excellent destination for splitboarders. The terrain and snow conditions are perfectly suited for riders who enjoy deep-snow descents and backcountry touring.
5. What is included in the price?
The trip generally includes:
Accommodation (hotel, lodge, or yurt camp depending on itinerary)
All meals and drinks
Private transfers
Full ski-touring program led by an IFMGA guide
A second local guide for groups of 5–10 participants
Liability insurance and travel insurance
Daily safety briefings and snow-education sessions
6.What is not included?
International flights
Rental ski/splitboard equipment
Personal safety gear (beacon, shovel, probe)
Personal expenses
Snacks and drinks purchased during the day
Tips for guides
7.Is Kyrgyzstan safe to travel?
Yes. While Kyrgyzstan experienced periods of instability more than 20 years ago, the country has transformed significantly over the past decade. Today, it is considered one of the most scenic and increasingly popular destinations for skiing and adventure tourism. It is very safe for visitors, with no notable concerns for travellers, and the local people are exceptionally warm and welcoming.
8. How is each ski day planned?
Each day’s objective is chosen based on weather and snow conditions to ensure safety and enjoyment. A typical day includes 4–6 hours of ski touring with breaks and optional shorter ascents if needed.
9. What is the group size?
Our guiding ratio is usually 1 guide per 4 participants. For groups of 5–10, a second experienced local guide will join to maintain safety and quality.
10. Is travel insurance required?
Yes. We include basic travel insurance, but it does not cover skiing. Participants must arrange their own ski-specific insurance, and we can assist with recommendations. Liability insurance is included, but personal coverage is still required.
11. What happens in case of bad weather?
If weather conditions are unsafe, the guide will adjust the plan to a safer zone, shorten the day, or replace the activity with technical training or avalanche-safety sessions. Safety is always the priority.
12. Can dietary requirements be accommodated?
Yes. We can accommodate most dietary needs (vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, allergies) as long as you inform us at least one week before the trip.
13.What type of skis should I bring with myself?
For Kyrgyzstan’s deep powder conditions, we recommend bringing your widest and longest skis to ensure optimal flotation and performance in soft snow.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
“Professional guiding, fun group and deep snow like nowhere else. One of the best ski touring adventures of my life.”
— Marcus L., Germany
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
“Fantastic experience from start to finish. The guides were highly skilled, the terrain was incredible, and the snow quality was better than anywhere I’ve toured before. Kyrgyzstan truly surprised me in the best way.”
— Emily S., United Kingdom