Kyrgyz Republic Ontor Glacier near Karakol Peak

Peak Karakol with its glacier is one of our highlights in the Karakol region. The tranquillity at this spot, surrounded by high rugged rock faces with a view of the glacier and the snow-white peak behind it, is breathtaking. The long effort of the many kilometers of hiking is well worth it!

Take advantage of the calm after the Golden Hour and don't put your camera away just yet. Particularly authentic shots can be taken during the blue hour. Increase your ISO a little more to be able to adjust the exposure accordingly.

From the entrance to the national park (marked point), the route runs for a total of 24 kilometers up 1300 meters in altitude and down around 250 meters in altitude. You can make a stopover in the Karakol Gorge, where you can rent yurts and buy meals. Alternatively, you can take a cab to Karakol Gorge, which should cost you 50-80 euros depending on the driver. From there, it is a 12-kilometre hike of around 800 meters in altitude. Bring all weather-related clothing with you. The weather can change very quickly in the mountains. Also be sure that you are fit enough to manage the long distances on partly muddy or unmade ground. Also pay close attention to where you pitch your tent and protect it from falling rocks.