Located within the northern reaches of the Tien Shan mountain system, Bayynkol Gorge is a high-altitude gem. The river that flows through this majestic gorge is fed by the glaciers of the Saryjaz mountain range, as well as the impressive Marble Wall peak glaciers.

Upon reaching the mountain ridge, guests are rewarded with panoramic views of towering peaks, including members of the "six-thousand-meter club" like Marble Wall, Plateau Peak, as well as "five-thousand-meter" summits such as Pogranichnik, Karlytau, Kazakhstan, Bayankol, and Semyonova. The Bayynkol Gorge itself is home to several scenic valleys, and is rich in wildlife, with species such as the Tien Shan bear, wolves, roe deer, wild boar, argali, and the Siberian mountain ibex calling it home.

Along the journey, participants will visit stunning panoramic viewpoints and pay tribute to the legacy of Yervand Tikhonovich Ilyinsky, a celebrated Soviet and Kazakh mountaineer. We will also stop at a shepherd’s hut where guests can enjoy traditional Kazakh treats such as kymyz, cakes, kaymak, and kurt.

The adventure reaches its peak on the second day, with a thrilling 500-meter ascent to the summit of the Zharkulak gold mine. Our mobile camp is situated at an elevation of 2,700 meters, so participants are advised to pack warm clothing to ensure comfort during the high-altitude experience.

In addition to exploring the Bayynkol Gorge, guests will also visit the Charyn River Canyon (Uzynbulak, or "Lunar Canyon") and Lake Tuzkol, where panoramic views of the majestic Khan-Tengri and Pobeda peaks await.

General Information