Trekking in Aksu-Zhabagly nature reserve (2 days)

Trekking in Aksu-Zhabagly nature reserve (2 days)

Aksu-Zhabagly nature reserve – is the oldest and most famous nature reserve in Central Asia. Year of the establishment is 1926. Its aim was to preserve endangered wild animals and abundant flora and fauna of the reserve. The nature reserve is located in the spurs of the Western Tien Shan at an altitude of 1000 to 4280 meters above sea level. In 2016 the nature reserve was included in the UNESCO list of the World Biosphere Reserves. The highest peak is Sairam Peak, its height is 4238 meters.

The name Aksu-Zhabagly contains names of two main rivers Aksu and Zhabagly. These rivers flow through the reserve. Aksu is the longest river, covering 120 kilometers. In the spring the Aksu River is blue. However, in the summer months, it turns to a color of milk. Hence, its name comes – Ak – meaning “white” and Su meaning “water”. Aksu canyon, carved by the mighty Aksu river, is one the deepest canyons in Central Asia. The depth of canyon fluctuates from 300m to 500 meters, the length is 30 km.

Itinerary

Day1 Kshi-Kayindy gorge

Early in the morning at 8:00 am our Guide will pick you up from Shymkent (or Tyulkubas station) drive to Aksu-Zhabagly nature reserve After 1,5 hours you will arrive to Aksu-Zhabagly nature reserve from where you will start our trekking in Kshi-Kayindy gorge.The whole route in one direction is about 7 km one way, but because of the amazing landscapes, you will not notice the whole distance traveled

Day2 Aksu canyon

Breakfast in guest house.After breakfast, our guide will drive to Aksu canyon.We will be driving out to see one of the deepest canyon in Central Asia.Fissure creates an unforgettable impression. This area is interesting for observing predatory birds: the golden eagle, the snake-eagle, the eagle-dwarf, the mound, the vulture, the sip, the griffon, the kestrel and others.

During the first stop we will observe canyon in location of closest approach to the steep banks of the river Aksu just half a meter. From there on we will descend to the river of Aksu, which takes approximately 1 hour 40 minutes.Walking tour along the path of the northern slope of the canyon (right bank, southern exposition) from the cordon Aksu to the bridge on the Aksu river.