Expedition to Astana Peak (Kruhozor)

Duration: 4 days Difficulty: Moderate (non-technical high-altitude ascent) Season: August

Astana Peak is one of the most scenic summits of the Bayankol Gorge. Despite its altitude, it remains a relatively easy and accessible climb, ideal for active travelers who want to experience high mountains without extreme technical difficulty.

The route passes through alpine meadows, mountain rivers, and the base camp “Confluence”, located at the meeting point of the Bayankol and Sary-Goynou rivers, whose waters merge into a single stream of contrasting colors.

Most of the route runs along the glaciers of the Marble Wall massif, offering panoramic views of famous five-thousanders: Bayankol Peak, Kazakhstan Peak, Karlytau, Semenov, and Eleven Peak. The legendary Chinese Pass and vast valleys of China are also visible along the way.

Originally used as a reconnaissance summit during early Marble Wall expeditions, the peak was officially named Astana in 2010.

Route: Almaty – Bayankol Gorge – Zharkulak Mine – Base Camp “Confluence” – Astana Peak

Dates: August 8–11, August 11–14, August 14–17, August 17–20, August 20–23, August 23–26.

Day 1: Almaty – Zharkulak Mine – Base Camp “Confluence”

Early morning transfer from Almaty to Zharkulak Mine (2900 m).
Travel time is approximately 7 hours: mostly asphalt, with the final 30 km on rough dirt roads. In good weather, Khan Tengri can be seen along the route.

From the mine, a 12 km hike (around 3 hours) leads to Base Camp “Confluence” (3200 m).
The terrain is straightforward but physically demanding after the long drive.

Overnight at Base Camp.

Day 2: Acclimatization at Base Camp

A full day for rest and acclimatization.
Participants can explore nearby glacier areas, walk along the river, take photographs, and socialize with climbers from around the world.

Evening dinner in the dining yurt.

Overnight at Base Camp.

Day 3: Ascent to Astana Peak (4,451 m)

Early start for the summit day.
The total ascent and descent typically takes 8–9 hours.

The route follows the river along the left slope, then climbs a short but steep scree section. Afterward, the terrain becomes gentler, passing alpine meadows and talus slopes along cliffs with wide valley views.

The final ascent to the summit is steady and prolonged.
At the top, participants rest, drink tea, and enjoy panoramic views of the Marble Wall, glaciers, moraines, and ice lakes. In good weather, high camps of Marble Wall expeditions are visible.

Descent follows the same route back to Base Camp.

Overnight at Base Camp.

Day 4: Base Camp – Zharkulak Mine – Almaty

After breakfast, descent to Zharkulak Mine.
Transfer back to Almaty.

End of the program.

PRICE INFORMATION

Price per Person

  • 2300 USD — Full Package with Guide (early booking)

  • 1000 USD — Full Package, Self-Guided (early booking)

Price Includes

Service in Almaty

  • Airport meet and group transfers (arrival / departure)

  • Hotel accommodation (1 night before and 1 night after the expedition)

  • Group transfer Almaty – Zharkulak Mine – Almaty

  • Assistance with documentation (border zone permit)

“Confluence” Base Camp (3200 m)

  • Accommodation in spacious two-person tents

  • Full board (three meals daily)

  • Cozy dining yurt and common recreation area

  • Constant electricity supply

  • First aid and medical consultation

  • Environmental fees

Mountain Infrastructure & Equipment

  • Use of fixed rope handrails on the route

  • Professional high-altitude guide services (for 2300 USD package)

  • High-altitude food kit (for 2300 USD package)

  • Public equipment: ropes, cookware, stoves, and gas (for 2300 USD package)

    Bonuses

    • Early booking discount (payments before December 31, 2025)

    • Flexible transfer of booking to another person (up to 4 weeks before start)

Price Does Not Include

  • Visa for foreign citizens

  • Emergency insurance (mandatory, minimum 30,000 USD, including helicopter evacuation)

  • Single accommodation supplement (hotel or base camp)

  • Private transfer (car for 4 seats) — 500 USD

  • Early check-in or extra hotel nights in Almaty

  • Personal gear rental

  • Hot shower usage — 13 USD

  • Satellite internet (Starlink) — 20 USD per person for the program

    Cargo Transportation & Extras

    • Gear transport by horse (Zharkulak → Base Camp, up to 70 kg) — 3 USD per kg

    • High-altitude food kit (for self-guided climbers) — 120 USD

    • Gas cartridge (230 g) — 12 USD

    • Individual high-altitude guide services — 2000 USD (21 days)