An Off-Piste Adventure Beyond the Ordinary – Torsten’s Journey to Kyrgyzstan

Kyrgyzstan sits in the heart of Central Asia and is still relatively unknown as a ski destination. The country is dominated by enormous mountain ranges – 80% of the land lies above 1,500 metres. Here, the snow is dry, light and plentiful thanks to the climate, meaning perfect off-piste conditions.

In the mountains around Karakol and Jyrgalan you’ll find terrain reminiscent of classic alpine regions, but without the crowds. It’s just us, the snow and the mountains. Well – and a snowcat waiting to take us back up again.

What is catskiing?

Catskiing is a form of lift-free off-piste skiing where a converted grooming machine – a “snowcat” – transports skiers up the mountain. It’s an alternative to heliskiing, but more sustainable and often significantly more affordable.

It also gives you access to vast amounts of untouched terrain without having to stand in lift lines.

For adventurous skiers, it’s the perfect combination: the freedom of off-piste, the safety of experienced guides and the comfort of getting a lift up the mountain while enjoying the views.

Torsten’s Journey to Kyrgyzstan

As mentioned earlier, Torsten was searching for a new and unique destination for his next trip – he wanted something out of the ordinary. When he discovered the trips organised by DBP Adventures, he became intrigued, as both the destination and the price were exactly what he had been looking for.

Once there, Torsten remembers one morning in particular:

“The first morning after the new snowfall – several decimetres! It turned into a day of absolutely magical skiing.”

The trip to Kyrgyzstan combines several types of skiing. Participants start with sidecountry, lift-accessible off-piste, in Karakol. Then the adventure continues to Jyrgalan, a small mountain village at 2,300 metres altitude, where catskiing awaits in terrain that rarely sees other tracks.

Beyond the skiing, the trip also offers insights into Kyrgyz culture – from warm hospitality to the chance to stay in a traditional yurt or relax in a sauna after a long day in the snow.

“The fascinating culture of Kyrgyzstan!” Torsten answers instantly when asked what surprised him the most.”

Travelling Solo – But Never Alone

Travelling alone can feel daunting. We know that, and many feel the same way about joining a group trip with people they’ve never met. But time and again, it turns out to be one of the biggest strengths of our trips – the sense of community that quickly forms within the group.

Torsten travelled to Kyrgyzstan on his own, but he says it was no issue at all:

“No reason to worry! I was really well taken care of by the group, even though I was the only one from Sweden this time. I made many new friends.”

Going on an Off-Piste Trip with DBP Adventures

With DBP Adventures you get a well-designed setup where everything practical is taken care of – so you can focus on the skiing and the experience. The trip is led by Scandinavian guides in collaboration with local experts, and safety is always the top priority.

Accommodation is a mix of hotel stays in Karakol and a family-run guesthouse in Jyrgalan, offering food, sauna, warmth and everything you need after a long day in the powder.

This is a trip for those seeking a true adventure – far beyond the typical ski resorts, but without compromising on safety or comfort.

Next Trip: 25 January – 1 February 2026

We’re going again! Join us for an unforgettable adventure in the mountains of Kyrgyzstan, where the snow is deep, the community strong and every run feels like the first.

There are only a few spots left, so it’s time to secure your place now – experience an adventure beyond the ordinary with us!