Karkara Border Crossing: Kazakhstan ↔ Kyrgyzstan (End of 2025 Update)
The Karkara Valley border (Kegen on Kazakh side, Karkyra/Kensu on Kyrgyz side) remains one of Central Asia’s most scenic and remote crossings—perfect for linking southeast Kazakhstan (Charyn Canyon, Kolsai Lakes) with Karakol/Issyk-Kul in Kyrgyzstan.
As of December 31, 2025, the border is seasonal: open roughly mid-May to late October (exact dates vary yearly due to snow). It closed for winter around late October 2025. Hours: typically 8-9am to 6pm.
Key Info (2025)
- Open Season: Early/mid-May to late October (snow closes mountain pass in winter).
- Nearest Towns: Kegen (Kazakhstan), Tep/Karkyra (Kyrgyzstan).
- Public Transport: None directly across border—taxis/shared rides essential.
- Money: No exchange at border. Change in Kegen or Karakol.
- Visas: Visa-free for most (EU, US, UK, etc.—up to 60 days each). E-visas NOT accepted here—must have visa in advance if needed.
- Best For: Scenic route avoiding Bishkek detour.
Kazakhstan → Kyrgyzstan (Kegen → Karakol)
Most popular direction—stunning valley drive.
- Get to Kegen: Shared taxi from Saty (Kolsai/Charyn area) ~3,000-4,000 KZT/person.
- Kegen to Border: Taxi ~2,000-3,000 KZT (15km dirt road).
- Border Formalities: Quick exit stamps Kazakhstan, short walk to Kyrgyz side. Bag check minimal.
- Kyrgyz Side to Karakol: Pre-arrange pickup via Karakol accommodation (~3,000-4,000 KGS/car, 3 hours). Hitch possible but traffic light. Roadside kumis stops common!
Total cost: ~6,000-8,000 KZT + 3,000-4,000 KGS.
Kyrgyzstan → Kazakhstan (Karakol → Kegen)
Less common but doable.
- Marshrutka Karakol bazaar → Karkyra village (~5.5km from border).
- Taxi Karkyra → border (~400 KGS).
- Kazakh side: Guards can call Kegen taxi (~2,000 KZT).
Tips
- Arrange transport in advance (especially Kyrgyz pickup).
- Bring snacks/cash—remote area.
- 4WD useful in bad weather, but regular cars manage in season.
- Combine with Kolsai Lakes/Charyn Canyon (Kazakh side) or Jeti-Ögüz (Kyrgyz side).
This crossing saves time vs. Bishkek route and offers epic scenery. Questions on 2026 opening? Comment below! 🇰🇿🇰🇬