KAZAKHSTAN

Kumbelsu Glacier Lake Trek

hidden gems of the Ile Alatau mountains — the wild and pristine Kumbelsu Gorge, home to glaciers, turquoise lakes, and sharp rocky peaks rising over 4,000 meters.

Geo-Tech Overview

This off-the-beaten-path itinerary takes you deep into wilderness where few tourists go. For three days you will be immersed in pure mountain silence, alpine meadows, and breathtaking panoramas, camping under the stars and experiencing true harmony with nature.

June – October
3 days
intermediate, advanced
Ile Alatau
2350 — 3560 m.a.s.l.
Almaty

THE ADVENTURE BEGINS HERE

MAP AND WEATHER

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Things You Don’t Want to Miss

Trail Highlights

Remote and little-visited Kumbelsu Gorge — far from crowds.
Stunning views of Soviet Peak, Molodyozhniy, Lokomotiv and other giants of the Ile Alatau range.
Visit to the spectacular Kumbelsu Glacier Lake (3,560 m), also known as “Lake #13,” with its surreal colors and ice cliffs.
Panoramic crossings of Shukur Pass (3,050 m) and descent through Shukur Gorge.
Scenic finish at the world-famous Big Almaty Lake, one of the icons of Kazakhstan.
Wilderness camping among alpine meadows, glaciers, and forested valleys.

PROGRAM SCHEDULE:

Day 1

Almaty – Big Almaty Gorge – Shukur Pass – Kumbelsu Gorge.

Meeting with your guide at 08:00 in Almaty and transfer to Alpine Rose Resort in Big Almaty Gorge (2,350 m). From here we hike steadily up through spruce forest, juniper bushes, and rocky slopes towards Shukur Pass (3,050 m). From the pass you will enjoy panoramic views into Kumbelsu Gorge, surrounded by glaciers and jagged 4,000+ m peaks. After a short rest, we descend into the gorge and make a short ascent to our campsite glade (3,000 m). Hot dinner, and sunset over snow-capped peaks.

Distance: 7 km
Elevation: +1,140 m / -50 m
Hiking time: 5-6 hours
Campsite: 3,000 m

Day 2

Kumbelsu Glacier Lake – Shukur Gorge.

After breakfast we hike deeper into Kumbelsu Gorge, following alpine meadows and moraine fields to the spectacular Kumbelsu Glacier Lake (3,560 m), a hydrological “Lake #13.” Here, hanging glaciers tower above turquoise water — a dramatic and rare high-mountain landscape. Time to rest, snack, and take photos before descending back to camp. After lunch and packing, we cross back over Shukur Pass and descend into Shukur Gorge, where our second campsite awaits in a spruce forest (2,450 m). Dinner and overnight in tents.

Distance: 11 km
Elevation: +560 m / -1,050 m
Hiking time: 7-8 hours
Campsite: 2,450 m

Day 3

Shukur Gorge – Shukur Waterfall – Big Almaty Lake – Almaty.

Morning hike to the beautiful Shukur Waterfall, hidden at the upper end of the gorge. After returning to camp, we pack and cross a small pass dividing Shukur and Ozyornoye Gorges. Soon, the trail descends to reveal the striking turquoise waters of Big Almaty Lake (2,510 m) — a postcard-perfect finish to our adventure. We walk along the lakeshore to the dam area, where our transport meets us for the drive back to Almaty. Arrival around evening.

Distance: 12 km
Elevation: +600 m / -260 m
Hiking time: 4-5 hours

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Useful Information

Tips & Resources

PRICE LIST:

950 EUR for one person
550 EUR per person for the group of 2
400 EUR per person for the group of 3
350 EUR per person for the group of 4-8
300 EUR per person for the group of 9-10

Accommodation:

Camping in the tents. We recommend to bring your own reliable and light tent for comfortable night staying. Rental is also possible upon request.

NECESSARY GEAR AND CLOTHING:

Personal clothing and accessories:

– Backpack (50–70 L) with raincover
– Sleeping bag (comfort temperature 0 to –5 °C)
– Sleeping pad
– Small sitmat
– Tent
– Trekking poles
– Headlamp with spare batteries
– Personal water bottle (1–1.5 L) + optional hydration system
– Personal first aid kit & personal medications
– Lightweight trekking pants and T-shirts
– Warm fleece or softshell jacket
– Down or synthetic insulated jacket
– Waterproof and windproof jacket + pants (Gore-Tex or similar)
– Thermal underwear (top and bottom)
– Several pairs of trekking socks
– Gloves (light + warm pair)
– Warm hat / beanie
– Neck warmer
– Cap or sunhat
– Trekking waterproof boots with a good protector sole and highlacing
– Sunglasses with UV protection
– Sunscreen (SPF 30+) and lip balm
– Sandals or light camp shoes
– Personal hygiene items (toothbrush, soap, wet wipes)
– Small quick-dry towel
– Snacks (energy bars, nuts, chocolate)
– Power bank

Services included in the package:

Return transfer from Almaty.
Professional English-speaking trekking guide.
Entrance fee for Ile Alatau National Park.
Meals on the trek (hot breakfasts and dinners).
First aid kit and satellite communication device.
Drinking water.

Services does not included in the package:

1. Food not indicated in the program and/or not included in program price.
2. Personal expenses and other expenses not indicated in the program.
3. Accommodation in Almaty before or after the tour.
4. Visa support and registration in the territory of the Republic of Kazakhstan, if required.
5. Insurance policy.
6. Rental of camping equipment (available upon request).
7. Porter’s service (available upon request).

ADDITIONAL INFO:

During all days of the program, having passport is required. Part of the route passes boundary line area with Kyrgyzstan Republic.

Depending on weather and snow conditions, the guide can make adjustments to the the program. It is required to have appropriate insurance policy covering trekking and backcountry in remoted places, including rescue by helicopter.

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