Loop trekking of Sary-Mogol

Breathtaking trek in south Kyrgyzstan

General overview: Our trekking tours, developed over many years of practical research and refinement, have become highly popular among European and international nature enthusiasts. These routes are loved by adventurers for their breathtaking landscapes and incredible sensations, making them a must-try in Kyrgyzstan.

In the Alai Valley, the minimum altitude begins at 2,500 meters above sea level and quickly rises higher. Due to the altitude, we recommend this hike for people in moderate physical condition with no altitude-related health problems. The route includes two challenging passes, Sary-Mogol Pass (4,280 m) and Jiptik Pass (4,185 m), with daily treks of 5–6 hours (active walking)

Acclimatization:

It is recommended to acclimatize to the altitude in advance, as the round hiking route starts from the Sary-Mogol Pass (4280 m), and the trail to the pass rises to an altitude of 900 meters.

  • Name: Loop trek of Sary-Mogol (starting and ending point from Sary-Mogol)
  • Travel options: trek (it is also available for horseback riders if there is experience )
  • Duration: 5 days
  • Season:  mid June until mid of September
  • Group size: min 2 max 15 people (ages from 16-55 years old)
  • Difficulty: Medium to challenge (where upper lands)
  • Total walking distance: 70km (9-12 miles/ 15-20 km daily walking distance)
  • Driving points from/to Sary-Mogol: 16km (to beginning point) 12km (from ending point)
  • Total ascent/descent:  4050/4160 meters
  • Total highest and lowest points: 4270/2220 meters

Day1. Sary-Mogol town via Sary-Mogol pass to yurt camp

Today we continue our trekking in north range of Allay valley (Trans-Alay). From Sary-Mogol to trailhead we go by car (1h) then trekking starts it is going to be bit taught trek because we go up to the pass called  Sary-Mogol pass (4270 meters) and Besh-Kol lake. Our daily route takes for 6-8 hours of walking up in rocky path. At the top of the pass we enjoy the stunning scenery of Besh-Kol lakes. Then keeping the way to other side until the yurt camp.

  • Approximate trekking distance: 14km, 8.70 miles
  • Time of hiking:  excluding driving 14km 6hours
  • Ascent/Descent: 910/790 meters
  • Highest and lowest points: 4270/3380 meters
  • Accommodation altitude: 3382.00 Meters | 11095.80 Feet
  • Connection: No electricity, internet and signal (power bank is recommended)

Despite the lack of roads, local families Orozgul and her daughter Aigul set up yurts for overnight stays (shared living) with flush toilet to make travelers more comfortable as they did not have to carry a lot of things.

Day2. Walking to Koshmoinok (6hours)

Head east following the river and slightly descending to the end of the beautiful mountain gorge.  Enjoy grandiose views of the Kichik Alay or Trans Alay mountain range, at first we cross a small village under Sary-Mogol further direction of travel turns to the right on the dirty auto road after 2-3 hours we reach a small village Kyzyl-Chara and stop here for lunch in home stay or at a cafes on the way, then forward go on to yurt camp in Koshmoinok.

  • Approximate trekking distance: 18km (11.18miles)
  • Hiking time: 7h (excluding lunch and break time) 
  • Ascent/Descent: 830/1460 meters
  • Highest and lowest points: 3467 /2467meters 
  • Accommodation altitude 2822.00 Meters | 9258.53 Feet
  • Connection: No electricity, internet and signal (power bank is recommended)

Despite the lack of roads, local family from Kyzyl-Shoro village (name of owner is Begali and Nurdoolot) installed solar (water) heater shower and water running toilet. There 2 share yurts and a hut for eating.

Day3. Koshmoinok to Kojo-Kelen village (6hours)

We will begin along the way, enjoy panoramic views of Sary-Bel (3150m) pass and untouched nature, with the sound of birds and rushing rivers as your companions. This scenic trail leads you to the picturesque village of Kojo-Kelen, renowned for its red rock formations and authentic charm.

Evening Experience in Kojo-Kelen:

Upon arrival, settle into a cozy homestay where you’ll be welcomed with warm Kyrgyz hospitality. Before dinner, take a short walk to discover two local gems:

Waterfall: A hidden cascade that offers a refreshing ambiance, perfect for relaxation and photography.

Blue Cave Pool: A magical spot where the turquoise water glows inside a natural cave—ideal for a quick dip or simply admiring its beauty.

End your evening with a stroll around the village, immersing yourself in the peaceful rural lifestyle, before enjoying a hearty dinner featuring local dishes.

  • Approximate trekking distance: 10km (6.50miles)
  • Hiking time: 6h (excluding lunch and break time) 
  • Ascent/Descent: 340/960 meters
  • Highest and lowest points: 3127 /2230meters 
  • Accommodation altitude 2230.00 Meters | 7316.27 Feet
  • Accommodation type: local homestay, share rooms in the traditional floor blankets with hot shower and flush toilet.
  • Connection: there is electricity and Wi-Fi

Day4. Kojo-Kelen village to Jiptik yurt camp (6hours)

Begin your day following the tranquil path alongside the Ak-Buura River. This trail winds through stunning gorges, lush valleys, and the dramatic landscapes of southern Kyrgyzstan. Along the way, marvel at the contrast between the greenery and the rugged cliffs towering above.

As you ascend gently, the air grows crisper, and the views become increasingly majestic. This serene walk leads you to Bolot’s yurt camp nestled in the foothills of the Jiptik Pass.

  • Approximate trekking distance: 14km (8.70miles)
  • Hiking time: 5hours  (excluding lunch and break time) 
  • Ascent/Descent: 1000/10 meters
  • Highest and lowest points: 3225 /2220 meters
  • Accommodation altitude 3040.00 Meters | 9975 Feet
  • Connection: No electricity, internet and signal (power bank is recommended)
  • Accommodation type: Yurt (beds on traditional mattress without higher sofa 3-4 people in one yurt)
  • Shared toilet outside.

Day5. Jiptik yurt camp to Sary-Mogol (6hours;1 hour drive)

After breakfast, the trek continued up to the top of the pass «Jiptik» and cross it until noon (4185 asl). If the sky is clear from the pass you can see a stunning view of the Pamir-Alay valley with Lenin Peak (7134). On the top you will have your lunch and photo shooting. After soaking in the stunning scenery, descend towards Darbaza-Tash traversing picturesque landscapes. Upon reaching Darbaza-Tash, a transfer will take you to Sary-Mogol. Accommodation in Sary-Mogol (private room)

  • Approximate trekking distance: 25km (15.53 miles)
  • Hiking distance & time: 15km; 5h walking and 10km 30 min driving (not counting time for lunch and break)
  • Ascent/Descent: 830/1230 meters
  • Highest and lowest points: 4150 /2970 meters
  • Accommodation altitude 2976.00 Meters | 9763.78 Feet
  • Accommodation type: Guesthouse (Alay travel house). The rooms has double, twin and single beds and share hot showers and water running toilets
  • Connection: There is electricity and Wi-Fi
Number of visitors12345
Price in USD for the group50070096012001400
If there are more people in the table, please let us know so that we can send you the price according to the number of people.

Our price include the following services:

  • Transport from Sary-Mogol to the trekking point and back to Sary-Mogol from the last point as in program,
  • Trekking guide from Sary-Mogul until Sary-Mogol.
  • 6 nights (in trekking) in yurt camps and guesthouse with meals including vegetarian food