Holidays
Celestial Mountains Snow Leopard Trek

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Holidays

Celestial Mountains Snow Leopard Trek

Available Departures: Jun, Jul, Aug

12 days from

US$3,805

without flights

View Dates & Prices

Walk & Trek

Guided Group

CHALLENGING

A trek in the Central Tien Shan Mountains of Kazakhstan in search of the elusive Snow Leopard.

Trip Code: SLK

Our Holiday Grades Explained

To show the relative difficulty of our holidays, each trip is graded on a scale of 1 to 12, with 12 being the most challenging. Although we have tried to make our grading system as clear as possible, it cannot take into account your personal interests, abilities or experience. If you have any questions about the nature of a particular trip or its suitability for you, please read the 'Is this holiday for you?' section or contact us.

1 - 3 LEISURELY

Suitable for most people in good health, holidays at this grade include only limited amounts of activity.

For anyone who enjoys exploring on foot rather than always in a vehicle. A mixture of sightseeing and easier walking of around 2-5hrs a day. Walking paths could be around sites, through cities or on well marked trails and at lower altitudes (under 2500m). Regions are rarely flat so some ascent or descents could be expected but rarely above around 300 – 400m per day.

View leisurely holidays

4 - 6 MODERATE

Suitable for reasonably fit individuals, such as regular walkers and cyclists. There can be the occasional more difficult day.

Suitable for fit weekend walkers. Consecutive walking days, of around 4-8 hours on generally good paths. Ascents and descents will increase and could be 1000m+ but often less. Some walking may be at higher altitude (3000m – 4500m) with the occasional higher pass and you may have some walking on snow. There may be occasions where you have to carry overnight kit on one or two days.

View moderate holidays

7 - 9 CHALLENGING

Physically challenging holidays, where you need to be prepared before you go.

Previous trekking experience and a good level of fitness is required for these trips as there will be consecutive days of longer trekking in more remote areas with rougher paths. Days will be around 5-9 hours often with some steep ascents and descents. Some ice/snow trekking is possible with the use of crampons and/ice axe. You may be required to carry a heavier backpack with overnight essentials or equipment for some days and sleeping at higher altitudes (generally up to 5000m).

View challenging holidays

10 - 12 TOUGH

Our toughest holidays, involving many long days, often in isolated areas. A high level of fitness and previous wilderness and mountain experience is essential.

View Tough holidays

Section:

Celestial Mountains Snow Leopard Trek

Highlights

Explore Almaty’s vibrant mix of Soviet heritage and Kazakh culture on a guided city tour.
Trek through the remote Central Tien Shan, crossing six dramatic mountain passes up to 3,780 m.
Camp beside crystal-clear alpine lakes like Karakol and Akkol, surrounded by pristine wilderness.
Enjoy breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks including Khan Tengri (7,010m) and Pobeda (7,439m).
Encounter nomadic life, wildflower meadows, and the chance to spot snow leopards in their natural habitat.

Accommodation & Meals

11 Breakfasts
11 Lunches
11 Dinners
4 nights Hotel
6 nights Camping
1 nights Guesthouse

Overview

Explore Kazakhstan’s remote Central Tien Shan “Celestial Mountains” on this nine-day trekking expedition which crosses six high passes (3150–3780m), follows ancient caravan routes, and camps beside pristine crystal clear alpine lakes. Supported by pack-horses and crew, you’ll walk with just a light daypack, surrounded by some of the world’s most striking mountain scenery.

Starting from Almaty, we follow shepherds’ trails along streams and lakes into a largely untouched part of the range, where you may be lucky enough to spot the elusive snow leopard in some of the more remote valleys. Highlights include meadows bursting with wildflowers, breathtaking views of Khan Tengri (7,010m) and other snow-capped peaks and nights. We’ll experience the wild beauty of the Central Tien Shan, making this an unforgettable adventure in the heart of Central Asia.

Is this holiday for you?

A unique “trekking expedition” through a remote part of Central Tien Shan Mountain Range. This area is rarely visited with some places remaining completely untouched by human presence and its activities. A fully-supported continual trek with a qualified guide and full trek crew and camping experience, you will need to be fit and experienced with walking consecutive days up to 7 or 8 hours. The route will take us over six high pass crossings over 3,000 metres with some steep ascents and descents and several river crossings.

Kazakhstan has vast, sweeping, expanses of wild countryside to explore, making it the perfect adventure travel destination. Tourism is very much still in its infancy here, making this a perfect time to visit, but this does mean that the tourist infrastructure is still limited. Unexpected changes are possible and it is important that you bring along your spirit of adventure.

Why KE?

Working with our team in Kazakhstan for over 30 years ....

Itinerary

Download Trip Notes

Day 1

Meet at the group hotel in Almaty. Afternoon city tour.

Show Details

Meet at the group hotel in Almaty. A single timed transfer is provided from Almaty Airport to the group hotel for breakfast at the hotel. You will then have some time to rest before lunch. In the afternoon there will be a guided sightseeing tour of Almaty. Almaty is a lively and colourful Soviet-built city with wide tree-lined streets and a cosmopolitan atmosphere. You will hear more Russian than Kazakh spoken here. We will visit the National Museum, giving a fantastic overview of Kazakhstan's history, the central mosque and market and then Panfilov Park, which is dedicated to the WWII heroes, the Russian Orthodox Cathedral, "Green" Bazaar, Republic Square and Monument of Independence. In the evening, we will meet to go for dinner at a local restaurant.

Accommodation

Hotel

Meals

L D

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Day 2

Transfer from Almaty via Charyn River Canyon to Karkara Base Camp (2,200m).

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After and early breakfast, we will make the 300 kilometre drive (approx. 6-hrs) through the Kazakh steppe and semi desert landscapes to the Central Tien Shan and our accommodation at Karkara Base Camp. En route we will visit the famous Charyn River's Red Canyon (180 km from Almaty) known as the 'Valley of the Castles' due to its imposing red pillars and rock formations. We will have a packed lunch before returning to our vehicle for the further 3 hour drive to reach Karkara Basecamp (2,200m). Karkara is famed for its lush surroundings, pristine mountain air, and authentic camp experience-offering accommodations in tents or even yurts, with eco-conscious facilities and hearty local meals. On arrival, you will have some time to relax before dinner.

Accommodation

Hotel

Meals

B L D

Time

6 hr - Transfer

Distance

300 KM

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Day 3

Trek from Karkara Basecamp to Sary Zhailau Plateau (2890m)

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Today we have a leisurely morning to explore the area or relax in camp. After lunch we will have short but steep ascent through alpine meadows scattered with wildflowers and forested trails to reach the Sary Zhailau Plateau. A steady climb takes us to the Arai Pass (2,750m) followed by another pass a few minutes later. The trail then descends to 2,570m where we across the stream and follow the valley to climb to our campsite at 2,890m. On this day, we will have the opportunity to see deer, wild boars and mountain goats at sunset.

Accommodation

Camping

Meals

B L D

Ascent

690 M

Descent

150 M

Time

3 - 4 hrs trekking

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Day 4

Trek over the Sartasu Pass (3640m) to Kokzhar Valley. Camp at 2640 metres.

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In the morning we make the long ascent to reach the Sartasu Pass (3,640m), one of the highest points of the trek. From the pass we can see the chain of snowy mountains of the Central Tien Shan along with its famous peak Khan Tengri at 7,010 metres. The descent into the Kokzhar Gorge follows green slopes overgrown with Juniper. Our camp is located at 2,640 metres. The 19th-century explorer Peter Semenov once travelled the gorge and his journey first brought the Tien Shan to European maps.

Accommodation

Hotel

Meals

B L D

Ascent

750 M

Descent

1000 M

Time

6 - 7 hrs trekking

Distance

12 KM

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Day 5

Trek through Kokzhar Valley to our camp at 2,800m.

Show Details

After breakfast we set off through verdant alpine meadows adorned with wildflowers, following the course of the Kokzhar River toward our campsite, situated at an elevation of 2,800 metres. The valley unfolds in an endless panorama of natural beauty, offering a tranquil and rewarding route. There are several minor river crossings may be encountered-sandals will be required for these sections. Along the route, we may encounter nomadic yurts and experience the warmth of Kazakh hospitality, often accompanied by tastings of local food. After several hours, we make a final crossing of the main river and follow a side valley for a few kilometres to reach our camp.

Accommodation

Camping

Meals

B L D

Ascent

160 M

Time

6 - 7 hrs trekking

Distance

16 KM

Hide Details

Day 6

Trek over the Tyuz Pass (3,556m) to Tekes Plateau and through Tuyuk Kokpak Canyon. Camp (2,550m).

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Following a faint trail through the gorge, we begin a steady 12 km ascent to Tyuz Pass (3,556 m), where the majestic Kan Tengri peak should come into view. From the pass, we descend another 2 km to reach the Tekes Plateau. We cross the plateau diagonally, passing herds of horses and cattle, as well as a few nomadic yurts scattered across the landscape. After a gentle climb and descent, we reach a river crossing before entering Tuyuk Kokpak Canyon. The canyon presents us with a series of short steep ascents and descents, river crossing and a final steep descent through the forest to reach the Tuyuk camp (2,550m). A long but rewarding day.

Accommodation

Camping

Meals

B L D

Ascent

750 M

Descent

1000 M

Time

8 - 9 hrs trekking

Distance

20 KM

Hide Details

Day 7

Trek over the Green Pass (3,150m) to our camp in the Ulken Kokpak Valley (2,400m).

Show Details

Today offers a more relaxed pace as we set out to cross the Green Pass at 3,150 metres. The route follows a faint, barely visible trail that winds steadily upward before opening onto sweeping views of the surrounding peaks and alpine meadows. As we descend from the pass, the landscape broadens into the vast Ulken Kokpak Valley - the largest and longest valley in the region, framed by gentle slopes and scattered juniper groves. We camp near a local hunting farm at an altitude of 2,400 metres, a peaceful spot where we can rest and take in the quiet beauty of the valley. Today's walk should take approximately 4 to 5 hours, allowing ample opportunity to enjoy the scenery and perhaps encounter wildlife along the way.

Accommodation

Camping

Meals

B L D

Ascent

600 M

Descent

750 M

Time

4 - 5 hrs trekking

Distance

8 KM

Hide Details

Day 8

Cross the Karakol Pass (3550m) and descend to our camp beside Lake Karakol (3150m).

Show Details

We begin the day winding through dense forest before embarking on a long climb to the Karakol Pass, reaching an altitude of 3,550 metres. From the pass, we are rewarded with a breathtaking panorama of the Tien Shan Mountains, including a striking view of the pyramidal summit of Khan Tengri. Looking down from the pass, the crystal-clear Karakol Lake comes into view, shimmering at the base of the peaks. Today we also enter the habitat of the elusive snow leopard. By keeping quiet and moving carefully, there is a real chance of spotting this majestic predator, which hunts mountain goats in the surrounding cliffs. Binoculars are highly recommended to fully appreciate the wildlife from a safe distance. Our camp for the night is set on the serene shores of Karakol Lake at an altitude of 3,150 metres, offering a perfect spot to rest, reflect on the day, and soak in the dramatic mountain scenery.

Accommodation

Camping

Meals

B L D

Ascent

1150 M

Descent

400 M

Time

5 - 6 hrs walking

Distance

10 KM

Hide Details

Day 9

Trek over the Akkol Pass (3,660m) and descend via gorge to reach Akkol Lake. Camp (3,100m).

Show Details

We start the day following Karakol Lake to its outlet, scanning the trail for bear tracks and enjoying views of the towering mountains. The route takes us through lush valleys filled with horses and cows, before a short, steep climb over loose stones leads us toward the pass. At Akkol Pass (3,660 m), the Tien Shan peaks stretch across the horizon, and a small detour offers a glimpse of Pobeda Peak (7,439 m). From here, we descend into a quiet, narrow gorge to reach Lake Akkol, a serene, wind-sheltered spot framed by grassy hills and marmot-filled slopes. Our camp on the northern shore sits beside a crystal-clear stream, a perfect place to relax after our days hike.

Accommodation

Camping

Meals

B L D

Ascent

510 M

Descent

560 M

Time

5 - 6 hrs trekking

Distance

9 KM

Hide Details

Day 10

Cross the Verblud Pass (3,780m) and descend to our camp in the Ashutor Valley (2,550m).

Show Details

We start early in the morning, climbing for 2-2½ hours to Verblud Pass (Camel Pass) at 3,780 m. The final stretch is steep, but the effort is rewarded with stunning views of the slopes below, where ibex graze peacefully. Immediately after cross a second pass, offering distant vistas of Khan Tengri (25 km away) and other impressive snowy peaks, including Bayankol (5,790 m) and Semenov (5,816 m). From here, we descend into the Ashutor Valley. The descent begins over loose stones before opening into lush forests and alpine meadows. Along the way, we cross a large bridge, pass a few farmhouses, and reach the point where the Ashutor Valley trail joins a dirt road from Bayankol Valley, connecting us to the surrounding landscape. Our camp for the night is at 2,500 m, a well-earned stop after a long, rewarding day amidst the serene valley and distant snow-capped peaks.

Accommodation

Guesthouse

Meals

B L D

Ascent

680 M

Descent

1280 M

Time

8 - 9 hrs Walking

Distance

19 KM

Hide Details

Day 11

Transfer by 4WD along the Bayankol river to roadhead. Transfer to Almaty.

Show Details

This morning, we have the perfect opportunity to capture one last stunning view of Khan Tengri and the snowy Bayankol Peak from a viewpoint 100 metres above our campsite at sunrise. After soaking in the scenery, we depart by 4WD, traveling 15 km off-road through pine forests along the Bayankol River to the border guard station, where our bus will be waiting. Here, we say farewell to the caravan and support team who have guided us through this incredible journey. We then transfer 360 km to Almaty with a lunch stop at a local café along the way. Upon arrival, we check into our hotel before gathering for a farewell dinner, celebrating the adventure and memories of the expedition.

Accommodation

Hotel

Meals

B L D

Time

6 hr Transfer

Distance

340 KM

Hide Details

Day 12

Departure day. A single early morning transfer to Almaty Airport is provided.

Show Details

Your holiday ends after an early breakfast, there is a group transfer to Almaty Airport.

Meals

Hide Details

Download Trip Notes

The Route

Point

Direction

Transfer

Walk/Trek

Essential Information

We've compiled some of our Frequently Asked Questions to help you learn more about this amazing trip.

Holiday

General

Equipment

What's Included

A KE leader
A local guide and an English speaking interpreter
Single timed airport transfers on arrival and departure
All accommodation as described
When camping a full service including food and all equipment (excluding personal equipment)
All meals
All land transport required by the itinerary
All activities/excursions/entrance fees mentioned except where specified as 'optional'
National Park entrance fees

What's not Included

Travel insurance
Tips
Miscellaneous personal expenditure - drinks and souvenirs etc.

Joining Arrangements & Transfers

The group will meet at the hotel in Almaty.

A single timed group transfer will be provided from / to Almaty Airport. Anyone may join the group transfer by prior arrangement.

Travelling as a group or on public transport saves energy. However, if this is not practical, we can provide private transfers at an additional cost. Taxis are also available.

Hotel contact details and an emergency number will be provided with your booking confirmation

Meal Plan

All meals are included in the holiday price.

Special Diets

Whilst we can cater for vegetarians, albeit sometimes with a more limited choice, we cannot always provide for special diets. Due to the nature of some of the trips that we operate and the countries in which we operate them, it can be very hard (and sometimes impossible) to cater for a wide range of dietary choices and you may have to supplement your meals with food/snacks from home. If you have specific dietary requirements please do speak to our sales team and they will be able to advise you whether or not we will be able to offer your specific choice. Please note that we are unable to provide separate menus and cannot accept liability for any problems arising from special dietary requirements or intolerances.

Food & Water

Drinking Water

It is not recommended to drink untreated water from the taps. If you are on a trekking or cycling holiday, water is supplied to fill up your individual bottles. This will be boiled, filtered or provided in large jerry cans or 5 litre bottles. Additionally you should take purification tablets or a filter bottle (such as a Water-To-Go bottle) to treat your water when in towns or where water is not supplied. We do not encourage the purchasing of single use plastic bottles.

If you are looking to sample local cuisine during your holiday you can expect to eat a lot of meat (mutton and horse are the most common) and dairy products. Beshbarmak, a dish consisting of boiled horse meat or mutton, is perhaps the most popular Kazakh dish. The meat is boiled and served in a bowl with pasta and a meat broth. Soured milk is a common ingredient and ‘Kumis’ (fermented mare's milk), also known as 'milk champagne', is a popular beverage amongst the nomads. Do not worry if this is not for you, international drinks and dishes will also be available in local cafes and restaurants where we will dine.

The food served during the camping section will be a mixture of local and international dishes, with ingredients purchased locally and cooked for us by well-trained camp cooks. Please note that vegetarianism is not a concept widely understood in Central Asia and choices for vegetarians will be much more limited. If you are vegetarian please remember to inform us of your dietary requirements before you travel. You may also wish to bring along some snacks from home to use during the course of your walking days.

Accommodation

We will spend 2 nights at a comfortable, centrally located hotel in Almaty. All rooms are en suite. All accommodation is allocated on a twin-sharing basis. If you are travelling by yourself you will be paired up with another single client of the same sex.

There will be a total of 9 nights camping whilst on the trek. We use roomy 2-person tents and there is also a dining tent, a toilet tent and a camp shower.

Single hotel rooms and/or single tents are available for a supplementary cost. If you are planning to extend your holiday additional nights are available on request.

Group Leader & Support Staff

The group will be led by a highly experienced KE leader travelling from the UK. They will be supported by an experienced local guide and an English speaking interpreter. Whilst on trek the group will be supported by a local mountain guide and a trek crew.

Altitude

This holiday involves going to high altitude. During the course of your trip you will reach altitudes in excess of 3500 metres. This is not something that you should worry about; the human body is quite capable of adapting to a very wide range of altitudes, but it is important that we follow some simple rules in order to acclimatise successfully. Before coming on this holiday you should read the advice on trekking at high altitude. You can also talk to one of our trekking experts if you have any concerns about altitude.

Spending Money

Approximately $150 should be allowed for miscellaneous expenses and you should take this money in the form of US dollars. Credit cards will not be accepted outside of Almaty. You should allow $80 for trek staff tips. Outside of Almaty, there is little opportunity to spend anything and all meals are included. If you are intending to buy expensive souvenirs, you should budget accordingly.

Guidance on Tipping

Tipping is expected in Kazakhstan, although you should only tip for services which are well done. The total amount that you can expect to pay in tips for your local guide, trek crew and drivers is approximately $80-100 (in local currency). Your KE leader will help to coordinate these payments and decide on an appropriate level of tipping for each crew member.

Baggage Allowance

For this holiday you should take one piece of luggage, which should be a soft bag such as waterproof duffel bag, and a day pack. The weight of your duffel bag whilst on trek should be no more than 12kg. Any items not required on trek (travel clothes etc. ) can be left at the hotel in Almaty. For international flights please check your baggage allowance with your airline.

Group Size & Holiday Status

For each holiday there is a minimum number of participants required to enable it to go ahead. Once the minimum number is reached, the trip status will change from 'Available' to 'Guaranteed to run'. You can check the trip status for each departure in the ‘Dates and Prices’ table. Other than in exceptional circumstances, we will not cancel a trip once it has achieved this guaranteed to run status so you are free to proceed with your international flight booking and other travel arrangements.

Passport & Visas

The information that we provide is for UK passport holders.

A passport with 6 months remaining validity at the end of your stay is generally required, and you should have at least 2 blank pages for each country that you visit.

For other nationalities, please refer to your own Government website for the latest information.

It is your responsibility to ensure that you have the correct travel documents including vaccinations and health certificates (see Health & Vaccinations below), and visas for your holiday. Please ensure that you check the FCDO for the latest advice for each country visited before travel.

Effective from 1 January 2022, citizens of the UK, the USA and EU countries do not require a visa to visit Kazakhstan as a tourist for a period of up to 30 days. Other nationalities should check the requirements directly with their own government travel advice, or with the Kazakhstan embassy in their own country.

Health & Vaccinations

Vaccinations

You should contact your doctor or travel clinic to check whether you require any specific vaccinations or other preventive measures. You should be up to date with routine courses and boosters as recommended in the UK e.g. diphtheria-tetanus-polio and measles-mumps-rubella, along with hepatitis A and typhoid. A good online resource is Travel Health Pro.

Severe Allergies

If you have a severe allergy please inform the KE office before you travel. We will do all we can to help, but we cannot guarantee an allergy free environment on KE trips. You will need to carry your own treatment for the allergy with you, as 'adrenaline auto-injectors' are not carried as standard by KE leaders and staff. You should inform your leader on arrival of your allergy, and let them know where you keep your adrenaline pen.

Currency

The unit of currency in Kazakhstan is the Kazakhstani Tenge.

Preparing for your Holiday

Getting some additional exercise before coming on an active holiday makes a lot of sense. The fitter you are, after all, the more enjoyable you will find the experience. You should be aerobically fit and comfortable with walking 4 to 6 hours for consecutive days, with the occasional longer day. Hill walking, with a good amount of ascent and descent, is the best training. Running, cycling and swimming are also good for developing cardiovascular fitness and stamina.

Climate

Daytime maximum temperatures will generally be between 20ºC and 25ºC, falling to between 10ºC and 15ºC at night. In the mountains we can expect to encounter cool and windy conditions and some additional clothing layers are needed. During the time we have chosen to travel you can expect warm days with clear skies and little rain or snow. However, weather in mountainous areas is notoriously difficult to predict and short-lived storms can occur at any time of the year. In short, you need to be prepared for everything!

Travel Aware

As a reputable tour operator, KE supports the British Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office's ‘Travel Aware’ campaign to enable British citizens to prepare for their journeys overseas. The 'Travel Aware' website provides a single, authoritative source of advice for all kinds of travellers and we recommend that before travel, all KE clients visit the official UK Government website at travelaware.campaign.gov.uk and read the FCDO Travel Advice for their chosen destination. North Americans can also check out the U.S. Department of State website: www.travel.state.gov for essential travel advice and tips.

KE treat the safety and security of all clients as the most important aspect of any trip we organise. We would not run any trip that we did not consider reasonably safe. Should the FCDO advise against travel for any reason, we will contact everyone booked to travel to discuss the situation. We receive regular updates directly from the FCDO and are in constant touch with our contacts on the ground. If you have any questions about government travel advice, please call our office.

Single Use Plastic

KE do not encourage the use of single use plastic items. We are ensuring that our agents all over the world are working together to reduce the problem and educate those around them. We are leading by example in our KE office by reducing our plastic use.

Books

Bradt Travel Guide.
Central Asia. Lonely Planet.
Foreign Devils on the Silk Road. Peter Hopkirk.
Mountains of the Middle Kingdom. Galen Rowell.

Maps

Central Asian Series at 1:500,000 scale. Almaty and Karakol sheets.
Reise Know-How. 1:2,000,000 scale.

Private Groups Information

Make this KE Adventure holiday your own!

Do our normal group departure dates not fit?
Would you prefer to travel with just friends and/or family?
Are you looking to organise a trip for your local walking, biking or mountaineering club?

It's really easy to make a trip your own. Simply select from our full range of adventure holidays and choose the dates that work for you and your group.

We are experts in creating holidays for groups of friends, families, charities and clubs. Our personal service means you’ll be fully involved as we make the arrangements for your perfect adventure holiday.

Independence with Security

Travelling as a KE Private Group allows you more flexibility and choice, but still with the peace of mind that everything is pre-planned and arranged for your group by a reputable adventure travel company.

To take your first step to an amazing adventure with your friends and family complete the private group enquiry form, or call our Sales Experts on: 017687 73966

Travel Insurance

It is an essential condition of joining a holiday with KE Adventure Travel that you have a valid travel insurance policy to cover the cost of medical treatment and to protect the value of your holiday in the event of cancellation. When taking out insurance please ensure the policy you choose covers you for the activities and altitude included in your itinerary.

For appropriate insurance cover we recommend Campbell Irvine Direct. Please go to our Travel Insurance page for further information and to get a quote.

Equipment List

Please try to keep the weight of your baggage to a minimum. See the ‘baggage allowance’ section for further details.

You must bring the following items:

Hiking boots
Trainers
Sandals (for river crossings) - e.g. Teva / Keen style (not flip flops)
Socks
Underwear
Trekking trousers
Waterproof overtrousers
Waterproof jacket
Thermal baselayer shirts (2 short sleeve, 2 long sleeve)
T-shirts
Shorts
Fleece jacket or warm jumper
Warm jacket (down)
Sunhat
Warm hat
Sunglasses
Warm gloves
Buff/scarf
Selection of dry bags (to keep trek bag contents dry)
Daypack 30 to 40 litres
Headtorch and spare batteries
Sun protection (including total bloc for lips, nose etc.)
Insect repellent (deet)
Water bottles 1 litre (x2) (we encourage re-filling water bottles rather than single use plastic)
Water purification tablets
Washbag and toiletries
Antibacterial handwash
Small towel
Sleeping bag (comfort rated -10°C)
Basic First Aid Kit including: antiseptic and antihistamine cream, throat lozenges, diarrhoea treatment (Imodium), painkillers, plasters and blister treatment, and re-hydration salts (Dioralite).

The following items are optional:

Trekking poles (highly recommended)
Binoculars (highly recommend for wildlife spotting)
Swimwear (we will be camping near rivers and mountain lakes on several occcasions)
Sleeping bag liner
Camera
Reusable cloth bag for shopping (to avoid plastic bags)

The following items are provided:

Thermarest or similar sleeping mat

View Dates & Prices

Private Departure?

Gather a few friends, family or club and take over your own departure.

Get in Touch

2026

Tue 30 Jun Sat 11 Jul

US$3,805 per Adult per Adult

US$550

Available

Book Now

More Information

Celestial Mountains Snow Leopard Trek
With Flights

Without Flights
Departure Reference: SLK /01/26/
This trip departs the UK on Mon 29 Jun returning to the UK on Sat 11 Jul

This trip begins on Tue 30 Jun and ends on Sat 11 Jul
This departure is available to book. Secure your place today with a deposit of US$550
Single Supplement Price: US$400 -
Includes 2 hotel nights and a single tent whilst camping.
Download Trip Notes

Tue 28 Jul Sat 8 Aug

US$3,805 per Adult per Adult

US$550

Available

Book Now

More Information

Celestial Mountains Snow Leopard Trek
With Flights

Without Flights
Departure Reference: SLK /02/26/
This trip departs the UK on Mon 27 Jul returning to the UK on Sat 8 Aug

This trip begins on Tue 28 Jul and ends on Sat 8 Aug
This departure is available to book. Secure your place today with a deposit of US$550
Single Supplement Price: US$400 -
Includes 2 hotel nights and a single tent whilst camping.
Download Trip Notes

Land Only Information

Please refer to the 'Joining Arrangements & Transfers' within Holiday Information for further details.

Flights and other transport to your destination should not be booked until you have received your booking confirmation and the departure is showing 'Guaranteed to Run' or 'Limited'.

The LAND ONLY dates and prices are for the itinerary, joining at the hotel in Almaty. Single timed transfers are included from/to Almaty Airport.

BOOK WITH KE CONFIDENCE - No surcharge guarantee

The price of our holidays can change depending on a variety of factors but unlike some other tour operators, KE have undertaken to guarantee the Land Only price of your holiday will not change after you have booked. The price when you book is the price you will pay, whether you are booking for this year or the next. Book early to avoid any tour price increases, get the best flight prices and take advantage of our 'No Surcharge Guarantee'.

KE Adventure is a fully bonded tour operator. We hold an ATOL license (No: 2808) and are bonded with ABTA (Membership No: W4341)

Trip is Locked

Celestial Mountains Snow Leopard Trek

Holiday Grades

Our Holiday Grades Explained

1 - 3 LEISURELY

4 - 6 MODERATE

7 - 9 CHALLENGING

10 - 12 TOUGH

Celestial Mountains Snow Leopard Trek

Highlights

Accommodation & Meals

Overview

Is this holiday for you?

Why KE?

Itinerary

The Route

Essential Information

Vaccinations

Severe Allergies

Make this KE Adventure holiday your own!

Independence with Security

You must bring the following items:

The following items are optional:

The following items are provided:

DATES & PRICES

2026

More Information

More Information

Land Only Information

Flight Inclusive Information

BOOK WITH KE CONFIDENCE - No surcharge guarantee

Download Trip Notes

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Trip is Locked

Celestial Mountains Snow Leopard Trek

Holiday Grades

Our Holiday Grades Explained

1 - 3 LEISURELY

4 - 6 MODERATE

7 - 9 CHALLENGING

10 - 12 TOUGH

Celestial Mountains Snow Leopard Trek

Highlights

Accommodation & Meals

Overview

Is this holiday for you?

Why KE?

Itinerary

The Route

Essential Information

Vaccinations

Severe Allergies

Make this KE Adventure holiday your own!

Independence with Security

You must bring the following items:

The following items are optional:

The following items are provided:

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DATES & PRICES

2026

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Land Only Information

Flight Inclusive Information

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