What is the order of visits?
Leave Almaty for Assy Plateau in the morning. On the way back down, have lunch at a trout farm in Turgen, then visit Issyk Lake before returning to Almaty.
How long does the tour take?
Allow roughly 11 hours. The departure time is agreed in advance, and stops are adapted to the guests, weather and daylight.
When is Assy Plateau accessible?
Usually from May to October. Snow, weather and mountain-road conditions determine access, which is confirmed before the trip.
Do I need to be very fit?
Your guide adapts walking distances to the guests. Short, gentle walks and scenic stops are possible. Consider comfort on mountain drives as well, and tell us about any mobility limitations in advance.
Where is the lunch stop?
Lunch at a trout farm in Turgen is included. We stop there on the return from Assy Plateau, then continue to Issyk Lake. Please share dietary preferences before the tour.
What is the price?
Per person: $110 with four guests, $140 with three, $190 with two and $360 for a solo traveller.
What should I bring?
Comfortable walking shoes, a warm layer, protection from wind or rain, a hat, sun protection and your phone or camera. Choose clothing for the mountain forecast.
Can I catch an evening flight afterwards?
Discuss the flight time before booking. Road conditions and city traffic can affect the return, so a fixed airport arrival should not be assumed without agreeing the arrangements.
How do I book?
Send your dates and group size. A manager agrees the route, preferred stops, accommodation and dietary needs with you. After you confirm the itinerary and total price, pay a 20% deposit: we secure your guide and then reserve the agreed accommodation. The remaining 80% is due on day one; payment in US dollars is available. For direct Silk Travel bookings, cancellation 14 calendar days or more before the start receives a refund of 100% of the amount paid; with less notice, the 20% deposit is non-refundable. Third-party bookings follow their platform terms.
Are the tours private?
Yes. Every tour is for your own party, including solo travellers. We do not run join-in groups or add you to another booking. Your English-speaking guide adapts walks, stops and time at locations to your interests and ability within the agreed itinerary. Extra days, accommodation upgrades and optional paid activities are quoted separately.
What vehicles do you use?
All our vehicles are comfortable, air-conditioned and undergo technical inspections. For groups of up to 4 guests, we use off-road-capable Toyota Land Cruiser or Toyota Land Cruiser Prado SUVs. For 5 guests, we use a Toyota Sequoia SUV. For groups of more than 5 guests, we use a Mercedes-Benz Sprinter.
What if prices differ by group size?
The price depends on group size. Send your dates and the number of people and a manager will confirm the exact offer.
Can you arrange halal meals, vegetarian food and food allergies?
Yes. Vegetarian and halal meals can be arranged in advance, with food adapted to guests’ preferences. Tell us about allergies before booking. A severe allergy requires individual discussion and confirmation of arrangements, including any needed controls against contact with the allergen. Check the chosen tour’s meal inclusions: meals are paid separately on some itineraries.
Do you provide child car seats?
Yes. We provide a child car seat on advance request. Tell us the child’s age and height when booking so we can prepare a suitable seat before the tour starts.
How can I stay connected during the trip?
On routes through Almaty, Bishkek or Karakol, you can buy a local SIM card along the way; tell us if you would like help. Mobile coverage depends on the operator and may be unavailable in remote mountain areas.
