I always recommend to our clients whilst in Karakol take an excursion to Altyn-Arashan Valley, which is incredibly beautiful, with pine forests, green meadows and colourful alpine flowers. You can either trek to the valley, which takes around 4 hours or go by 6WD and enjoy leisurely walks and a picnic lunch amidst alpine meadows. Also included is a visit to the health resort at Altyn-Arashan, 2,200 metres above sea level, where you can swim in the natural hot mineral springs.