Overview

This is not merely a trek; it is a comprehensive expedition designed for the serious adventurer. Our 12-day itinerary allows for proper acclimatization, embraces the principle of "slow travel" to fully absorb the grandeur of the Tianshan Mountains, and incorporates strategic rest days and cultural immersion points. We transform the journey from a physical challenge into a profound dialogue with nature, history, and the nomadic cultures that have thrived here for centuries, all supported by an unparalleled level of comfort and safety in the wilderness.

Tour Highlights

A dedicated acclimatization and training day at a Kazakh family's summer pasture, practicing horsemanship and learning essential expedition skills with your personal guide and horse.

Two nights at the shores of Lake Heaven (Heavenly Lake), allowing for a full rest day to explore its hidden corners, photograph the changing light on the peaks, and simply absorb the sublime atmosphere without rush.

A profound cultural exchange with a nomadic Kazakh family at their remote summer camp, sharing a traditional meal and listening to stories of their ancestral migration routes, a experience completely off the tourist map.

Traverse the entire spectrum of Tianshan landscapes at a contemplative pace: from the lush Ili grasslands, across the high-altitude Hazalate Pass (3,660m), through the rugged Kuokesu River Canyon, to the alpine meadows on the southern slopes.

Benefit from the highest guiding ratio and support team in the industry, including a lead expedition guide, a cultural expert, a dedicated chef, and a full horseman team, ensuring safety, comfort, and deep learning throughout.

Itinerary

Day 1 | Arrive in Yining, Xinjiang

Arrive in Yining, the gateway to the Ili Valley. Attend a comprehensive expedition briefing and gear check. Enjoy a welcome dinner featuring Kazakh and Uyghur specialties.

Day 2 | Yining / Cultural Preparation & Acclimatization at a Summer Pasture

Journey to a remote Kazakh summer pasture (Yayla). This day is dedicated to cultural immersion and acclimatization. Meet your horse and guide, learn basic commands and expedition horsemanship. Share a meal with the nomadic family, understanding their deep connection to the land we are about to traverse.

Day 3 | Expedition Start: Pasture / Qiongkushitai / First Camp

Begin the official trek from Qiongkushitai. A relatively short riding/walking day to ease into the expedition rhythm. Set up the first wilderness camp in a scenic valley, followed by a briefing on the days ahead.

Day 4-8 | The Core Expedition: Crossing the Tianshan Divide

These five days form the heart of the journey, each presenting unique challenges and rewards:

River Crossings: Multiple fords of the icy, powerful Kuokesu River.

High Passes: Ascent and crossing of the formidable Hazalate Pass (3,660m), a true test of endurance rewarded with breathtaking 360-degree views.

Historic Trails: Navigate the dramatic "Plank Road"section, a thrilling path carved into the cliff face.

Arrival at Lake Heaven: A triumphant arrival at the turquoise shores of Lake Heaven. We camp here for two full nights.

Day 9 | Rest & Exploration Day at Lake Heaven

A vital day of rest and deep exploration. Options include a gentle hike to a higher vantage point for a different perspective of the lake, photography, fishing, or simply relaxing by the shore with a book. This day eliminates the "rush-through" feeling of shorter itineraries.

Day 10 | Lake Heaven / Final Pass / Descent to Southern Foothills

Bid farewell to Lake Heaven and traverse the final pass, beginning the long descent toward the southern slopes of the Tianshan. The landscape transforms dramatically into drier, more open terrain.

Day 11 | Exit the Trail / Hefeng / Return to Yining & Celebration

A gentle final ride/walk to the trail's end at Hefeng. An emotional farewell to your guides and horses. Transfer back to Yining for a well-deserved hot shower and a celebratory farewell dinner, sharing stories from the trail.

Day 12 | Depart from Yining

After a final breakfast together, transfer to the airport for your departure, carrying the profound satisfaction of having completed one of Asia's most legendary trails in a truly comprehensive and immersive way.

What's Included

• Hotels are included in the itinerary.
• China's domestic flights/trains are specified in the itinerary.
• Entrance fees.
• Meals are detailed in the itinerary.
• Private transfers.
• Private English-speaking guide and driver.
• Service charges and taxes.

Notes

• The itinerary outlined above can be customized to align with your personal interests and preferences. Please feel free to share your thoughts with us, and we will gladly make the necessary adjustments.
• Pricing is subject to change based on the itinerary, activities, travel season, number of participants, and hotel selection. We provide accommodations across all levels for our tours, including renowned 5-star hotel chains and well-located 4-star hotels at various destinations.