A Remote and Untamed Ascent in the Heart of Asia
Kyrgyzstan
Booking from
Now
Start Date
07 - 21 July 2025
Project Description
Rising deep within the Terskey Alatau range, Peak Palatka is an isolated, glaciated giant in one of Kyrgyzstan’s most untouched landscapes. Its tent-like summit pierces the sky above the wild, high-altitude wilderness of the Tian Shan mountains, offering a true test of endurance and determination. The ascent is demanding—crossing remote valleys, navigating icy slopes, and pushing through thinning air at nearly 15,300 feet. This is not just a climb; it’s an expedition into the raw heart of Central Asia. The reward? An unforgettable summit moment surrounded by towering peaks and glacial basins few ever witness.
Start Cost
£5500
Difficulty
3/6
Duration
15 Days
Risk Level
2/6
Deposit
£500
Physical Level
3/6
Max Person
10
Daily Activity
4-8 Hours
Pre-Expedition Training

Climbing Peak Palatka is a physically demanding high-altitude expedition, and proper pre-expedition training is vital for both your performance and safety. Prioritise aerobic fitness, leg and core strength, and muscular endurance through consistent hiking, trail running, and cycling. Focus particularly on uphill work while carrying a loaded backpack to replicate the demands of the ascent. Exposure to cold, uneven terrain, and extended trekking days requires strong conditioning and mental resilience. Practice controlled breathing, stay mindful of your pacing, and cultivate a mindset ready to adapt to altitude. With the right preparation, you'll arrive confident, capable, and ready to embrace the challenge of one of Central Asia’s wildest peaks.

Kit & Equipment Outfitter

Proper preparation and equipment are essential for your safety and comfort during this Peak Palakta expedition. Below is a comprehensive kit list to help you prepare:

+ Kit List
Medical & Insurance Consult

FREC 3 medic in the team / helicopter evac possible / Frequent health monitoring on route

Please ensure that you have the correct insurance cover before departing for this trip. Your insurance must cover high altitude trekking and climbing to a height of 4,650 meters / 15,256 feet. Helicopter rescue and repatriation is compulsory.

Project Tags
Trekking / High Altitude / Asia / Summer
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About the project

Climbing Peak Palatka is more than just a summit, it’s a journey into the wild, untouched heart of the Terskey Alatau range in Kyrgyzstan. This remote glaciated peak rises above the alpine lakes and deep valleys of the Tian Shan mountains, offering a rare chance to step off the map and into a world where silence and scale redefine adventure. Your journey begins in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan’s vibrant capital, before heading east through open steppe and past the shores of Issyk-Kul Lake. Along the way, you’ll stay in yurts, meet local nomads, and immerse yourself in the culture and spirit of Central Asia.

From the first day on the trail, the landscape shifts, lush valleys give way to glacial rivers, sweeping ridgelines, and snow-covered passes. Each day builds altitude and anticipation as you trek deeper into this raw and rugged terrain. With time for acclimatisation and guided movement over snow and ice, you’ll cross wild mountain passes and set camp beneath towering peaks, preparing for your final ascent. Whether it’s cresting the rim of Ala-Kol Lake or pushing toward the high camp on Khadija Pass, each moment is part of something bigger, discovery, connection, and challenge.

Reaching the summit of Palatka at 4,650 meters is a moment you’ll never forget. Surrounded by untouched wilderness, with nothing but jagged skylines and the buzz of thin air, the sense of accomplishment is real and lasting. Jay Morton’s leadership, rooted in deep expedition experience and military precision, ensures every detail is accounted for, from safety to mindset. This is more than a climb; it’s a transformative experience that strips things back to what really matters, adventure, resilience, and the power of wild places.

Kyrgyzstan
Kyrgyzstan
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Kyrgyzstan
Why?

Climbing Peak Palatka, rising to a dramatic 4,650 meters and standing as one of the most remote and striking peaks in the Kyrgyz Tian Shan, is a truly immersive expedition that combines breathtaking alpine scenery, the untouched cultural depth of Central Asia, and the powerful personal challenge of ascending in isolation at high altitude, offering climbers not only the chance to test their physical endurance and mental focus but also the rare and unforgettable reward of reaching a summit few ever see, surrounded by silence, sky, and the spirit of true exploratio

Altitude
4,650 meters / 15,256 feet
Season
Summer
Location
Kyrgyzstan
Categories
Trekking / High Altitude / Asia / Summer
Kyrgyzstan
Kyrgyzstan
Kyrgyzstan
Itinerary
Kit & Equipment

Clothing

Base Layers

3-4 moisture-wicking thermal tops

2 pairs of thermal bottoms

Mid Layer

Fleece jacket or pullover

Insulated softshell jacket

Outer Layers

Waterproof, breathable hardshell jacket with a hood (GORE-TEX or equivalent)

Waterproof trousers

Insulated Layers

Heavyweight down or synthetic insulated jacket (suitable for temperatures down to -20°C)

Insulated trousers

Trekking Clothes

2–3 pairs of quick-drying trekking pants

Multiple sets of sports underwear (merino preferred)

3-4 quick drying t-shirts

Gloves

Lightweight gloves for trekking

Insulated gloves or mitts for summit day

Spare gloves

Headwear

Warm beanie or fleece hat

Neck gaiter or Buff

Baseball cap or sun hat

Footwear

Sturdy, waterproof trekking boots or approach shoes

B2/B3 mountaineering boots compatible with crampons

5–6 pairs of moisture-wicking trekking socks

1–2 pairs of expedition socks for summit day

Sandals or sturdy flip-flops for base camp

Climbing Gear

12-point steel crampons (ensure compatibility with your boots)

Climbing harness

Climbing helmet

Mountaineering ice axe

2x open gate carabiners, 2x screw gate or triple-lock carabiners

Prusik loops and slings

Belay/rappel device (if required)

Sleeping Gear

4-season sleeping bag (comfort rating of -20°C / -4°F)

Sleeping bag liner (for added warmth)

Inflatable expedition sleeping mat

Foam sleeping mat

Backpacks & Bags

Daypack (30–40L) for carrying essentials during the trek

Large duffel bag for porters

Accessories

Mountain sunglasses

Headlamp with spare batteries

2x 1L water bottles with insulation pouches and/or hydration bladder

Buff or neck gaiter

Heat pads for hands (optional)

Pee bottle or Shewee for women

Insulated mug

Knife or multitool

Spoon

Thermos (optional)

Water treatment tools, tablets, or wand (water sources may be unclean)

Spare clothes for downtime

Trekking Gear

Trekking poles (optional)

Toiletries & Personal First Aid

Personal toiletries (biodegradable where possible)

Sunscreen (SPF 50+) and lip balm with UV protection

Hand sanitizer and wet wipes

Personal first aid kit (include altitude medication, blister care, and any prescriptions)

Lightweight travel towel

Personal & Optional Items

Camera or smartphone with extra batteries

Lightweight book or e-reader

Earplugs and facemask

Battery pack

Dust mask for those sensitive to dust

Portable solar charger (optional)

Hand warmers (optional)

Note: Ensure all gear is of good quality and tested before the expedition, especially boots, backpacks, and clothing. If you have questions about any items, feel free to ask for guidance!

Food & Hydration

Snacks (energy bars, nuts, dried fruit, jerkey, chocolate, etc.)

Electrolyte tablets or powders

Vital Documents & Paperwork

Passport (with necessary visas and permits and at least six months left until expiration)

Cash (for tips, snacks, and souvenirs)

Travel and high-altitude, helicoper rescue and repatriation insurance

Correct travel plug adapter

What's Included:

Transfers & Transport: All in-country transport, including private minibus from Bishkek to Karakol and return, 4x4 vehicles to and from the trekking region, and military truck descent from Altyn Arashan

Accommodation: Guesthouse stays in Bishkek, Karakol, and Bokonbaevo on a shared basis (single rooms available on request); traditional yurts near Issyk-Kul Lake; and high-quality mountain tents during the trek

Meals: All meals during trekking days and selected meals in cities and yurt camps; meals are freshly prepared by our expedition cook using local ingredients

Guides & Support Team: Qualified local mountain guides, experienced trekking support, porters, and camp cook; all staff receive fair wages, food, equipment, and appropriate insurance

Climbing & Camping Equipment: All group equipment, including sleeping tents, dining shelters, cooking gear, and insulated mats provided during the expedition

Permit Assistance: National park access, climbing permits, and all necessary local permissions are secured as part of your package

Horse Support: Gear transport provided by pack horses for the duration of the trek; optional horse riding available on request at key points

Hot Springs Access: Enjoy a natural soak at the famous hot springs of Altyn Arashan after your descent

What's Not Included:

International Flights: Return travel to/from Bishkek is not included

Personal Gear: Mountaineering boots, crampons, harness, helmet, ice axe, sleeping bag, and personal trekking/climbing kit must be brought or rented

Travel Insurance: Must include cover for trekking at altitude (up to 4,700m), medical treatment, and emergency evacuation/rescue (including helicopter, where applicable)

City Meals: Meals during your stay in Bishkek and Karakol (outside of those included in the itinerary) are not covered

Beverages: Alcoholic drinks and additional beverages outside of the included meals

Tips & Personal Expenses: Gratuities for guides and staff, souvenirs, snacks, laundry, and other personal purchases are not included

Unlisted Services: Any services not mentioned under “What’s Included” or requested beyond the agreed itinerary

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Terms, Conditions & Policies
Payment Policy
Payments can be made by any lawful method, but if using electronic bank transfer, you must cover any fees to ensure the full invoiced amount is received in the specified currency.
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation Policy If you decide to cancel your trip, deductions will be made from the advance payment due to the company’s obligation to allocate funds for personnel and resources during the booking process. The following charges apply based on the timing of your cancellation: Cancellations made 90 days or earlier: Full refund of the deposit, if paid in advance. Cancellations made 90 to 61 days prior to departure: 30% of the deposit will be retained. Cancellations made 60 to 46 days prior to departure: 50% of the deposit will be retained. Cancellations made 45 to 31 days prior to departure: Full deposit will be retained, along with a fee equal to 30% of the total trip cost. Cancellations made 30 days or less prior to departure: 100% of the total trip cost will be retained. Note: All refund requests must be submitted in writing (via email or letter) and received within the specified notice period. Written notification of cancellation is mandatory for all cases.

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