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Heliski in Kyrgyzstan

Helicopter flights to untouched slopes and thrilling descents on perfect powder snow. Up to 6 unique runs per day with a total vertical drop of up to 6,000 m.

Description

Heli-skiing in Kyrgyzstan is a special type of skiing where a helicopter takes you to the tops of hard-to-reach mountains, giving you access to perfect, untouched slopes. Instead of crowded slopes, you get freedom, virgin snow, and pure excitement. Reliable Mi-8 MTV helicopters with experienced crews are used for flights.

Every day, you can enjoy up to 6 thrilling descents on soft, fluffy snow with a total elevation difference of up to 6000 meters. The terrain is surprisingly diverse: wide snowfields, sharp ridges, and narrow couloirs – each route is unique.

The climate of Kyrgyzstan provides ideal powder snow – light and dry, which lasts for a long time. A team of professional guides accompanies you every step of the way – from the flight to the final descent – ensuring maximum safety and comfort.

Program

Day 1. Manas airport – Bishkek city – Karkyra valley

Meeting at Manas airport and transfer to Bishkek. Upon arrival, breakfast at a café, where you can relax after your journey and experience the welcoming atmosphere of Kyrgyzstan.

After breakfast, we will begin our journey to Karkyra (470 km). The road passes through the picturesque Boom Gorge, where mountain slopes rise high above the turbulent Chu River. The route then continues along the coast of the amazing Issyk-Kul Lake – the “pearl of the Tien-Shan”. Along the way, mesmerizing views open up: the blue surface of the lake blends with the snow-capped mountain peaks on the horizon.

On the way, lunch is planned at a local cafe, where you can relax and enjoy national cuisine.

In the evening, arrival at the Karkyra yurt camp. Here you will enjoy dinner and accommodation in a cozy yurt camp surrounded by mountains.

Day 2-6. Skiing on the slopes

Skiing from the majestic peaks of the region with helicopter transport (the program includes 8 hours of helicopter operation)

08:00 – Breakfast at the yurt camp, preparation for an active day.
09:00 – Departure to the mountain skiing area. A helicopter will take you to the best peaks for freeriding. Unique descents on virgin snow, panoramic views of endless mountain ranges, and an unforgettable feeling of freedom await you.
12:00 – Lunch right in the mountains. Hot tea and a snack in the fresh air will allow you to recharge your batteries and enjoy the high-altitude atmosphere.
15:00 – Return to camp. Time to relax and share your impressions.
17:00-19:00– Sauna and hot tub with herbs: relaxation after an active day, muscle recovery, and complete immersion in the cozy atmosphere.
19:00 – Dinner at the camp, friendly atmosphere, and relaxation.

*The program includes one reserve day in case of bad weather. It can be spent in consultation with the guides – walks, excursions, or additional activities at the camp are possible.

Day 7. Karkyra valley – Bishkek city

After breakfast, departure for Bishkek. Lunch is planned in the town of Cholpon-Ata along the way.

Arrival in Bishkek in the afternoon. Here you will enjoy a short city tour of the Kyrgyz capital: you will see the main sights and learn more about the history of the city.

In the evening, you will check into a cozy 4* hotel. The day will end with a festive dinner at a restaurant serving national and European cuisine, where you can share your impressions of the trip in a friendly atmosphere.

Day 8. Bishkek city – Manas airport

Early in the morning, transfer to Manas airport. This concludes the tour program.

Tour price per person

For a group of 15	4700 USD
For a group of 14	5000 USD
For a group of 13	5350 USD
For a group of 12	5760 USD
For a group of 11	6240 USD
For a group of 10	6820 USD

The cost of the tour depends on the size of the group. Prices are approximate; for more detailed information, please contact the manager.

Included in the tour price:

✅ 8 hours of helicopter rides
✅ Accommodation in the Karkyra yurt camp – 6 nights
✅ Accommodation in a four-star hotel in Bishkek – 1 night
✅ All transfers specified in the program
✅ Meals – full board
✅ Accompaniment by two professional guides from the company
✅ Bath/chan with herbs

Not included in the price:

❌ Air tickets
❌ Ski equipment rental
❌ Rental of communication and rescue equipment: avalanche transceiver, shovel, probe, ABS backpack
❌ Cost of evacuation in emergencies
❌ Surcharge for single occupancy in a hotel in Bishkek
❌ Cost of visa and consular services (Russian citizens do not need a foreign passport)
❌ Personal expenses
❌ Food and drinks not included in the group menu
❌ Insurance. To participate in the program, it is mandatory to have medical and transport insurance (helicopter flights and downhill skiing/snowboarding must be considered as insured events) for at least USD 30,000. Without presenting an insurance policy, the participant will not be allowed to fly, and the program fee will not be refunded.
❌Additional expenses caused by bad weather conditions, changes in flight schedules, equipment breakdown, illness, or other unforeseen circumstances
❌Payment for excess baggage
❌Payment for individual transfers at times other than those scheduled in the program

Tour Conditions

Heli-ski routes are selected by the guides and depend on the group’s skill level, weather, and snow conditions.
The program is planned for good weather, and activities may be adjusted accordingly.
Refunds will be provided for unused services in case of bad weather or safety risks for the group.
No refunds will be given if runs are missed due to reasons caused by the client, such as broken equipment, illness, late arrival for take-off, or early departure.
Insurance is mandatory for all clients.

Possible Areas for Heli-ski in Kyrgyzstan

1. Issyk-Kul Lake area, Terskey Ala-Too, Karkara camp

Karkara, Zhyrgalan, Kuilu tract – skiing heights from 3000 to 5000 m. The slopes here are varied: length from 1.5 to 7 km, elevation difference 800–1200 m. This is the largest site for heli-skiing programs with unlimited descent options – wide glades, ridges, and couloirs allow you to choose a route according to your skill level and mood.

Due to weather conditions, sometimes a tour to Karkyr may not be possible. In such cases, the program remains flexible: you can enjoy the equally impressive Susamyr – Western Karakol – Upper Ala-Archa or Kyrgyz Ala-Too – Susamyr, where the skiing conditions are also ideal and the views are no less breathtaking.

Accommodation at the Karkyra base camp, located in the picturesque Karkyra gorge on the eastern border of Kyrgyzstan and Kazakhstan, approximately 120 km from Karakol and 470 km from Bishkek. This is Kyrgyzstan’s first yurt camp with all amenities, offering excellent skiing opportunities.

2. Susamyr – Western Karakol – Upper Ala-Archa

Skiing altitudes range from 3,800 to 4,100 meters, with slopes 1,5-5 km long and a vertical drop of 800-1200 meters. The area offers a wealth of routes: more than 50 slopes are suitable for both beginners and extreme skiers. Its proximity to Bishkek – only about 30 minutes away – makes this option convenient and quick for organizing descents on any day.

Accommodation is at the Zhanat Resort mountain hotel, where you can relax after an active day and prepare for new experiences.

3. Kyrgyz Ala-Too – Susamyr

Skiing altitudes – 3800-4200 m, slopes 1,5-8 km long with a vertical drop of 500-1300 m. This region offers a wide variety of routes and the opportunity to ski in deep powder snow, giving you the feeling of being a pioneer with every descent.

The sharply continental climate with low temperatures and dry air creates perfect powder snow from December to April.

Accommodation is at the Too-Ashuu ski resort, surrounded by picturesque mountain scenery.

Accommodation

Terskey District, Ala-Too – Kuilu tract, Zhyrgalan, to Khan-Tengri
Accommodation at Karkyra camp. Accommodation is in double rooms with all amenities.
Susamyr District – Western Karakol – Upper Ala-Archa
Accommodation at the Zhanat Resort mountain hotel in double rooms with all amenities. If desired, accommodation in the city is available at an additional cost.
Kyrgyz Ala-Too – Susamyr region
Accommodation at the Too-Ashuu ski resort in wooden two- and four-bed cottages. Each room has a shower and toilet. The resort has a dining room and bar where you can relax and have a snack after skiing.

Compulsory Equipment

A small backpack (preferably with back protection) for freeriding
Helmet and back and shoulder protection
Ski goggles
Sunscreen
Avalanche sensor
Avalanche shovel and probe
Thermos with a hot drink
Personal first aid kit
Ski boots and bindings that fit your gear
Drinking system or water bottle
Small tools and multi-tools for emergencies
Spare batteries for avalanche transceivers and other electronic devices
Navigation devices (compass, GPS) if necessary

Clothing Essentials

Ski suit or windproof suit made of Gore-Tex or similar materials
Polartec jacket for extra warmth
Thermal underwear (top and bottom) for regulating body temperature
Beanie, balaclava, or mask to protect your head and face from wind and cold
Warm wool or Polartec sweater
Mittens and gloves, it is recommended to have a spare pair
Ski socks (several pairs, to keep feet dry and warm)

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Heliski in Kyrgyzstan

Helicopter flights to untouched slopes and thrilling descents on perfect powder snow. Up to 6 unique runs per day with a total vertical drop of up to 6,000 m.