How do I get here?- From Karakol, you have a few options depending on your travel style and budget:
Marshrutka: Take a shared minibus from Karakol to Barskoon village (costs around 100–150 SOM). From the village, you’ll need to continue by foot or taxi to the trailhead for 15 kilometers.
Taxi: A private taxi from Karakol to the waterfall parking area can be arranged for approximately 3,000–3,500 SOM each way. (there aren't many taxis waiting after 5pm, plan ahead!)
Self-drive: If you have your own car, head west from Karakol on the A363 highway, turning off near the Yuri Gagarin monument. The road becomes gravel as you enter Barskoon Gorge but is manageable with a standard vehicle.
From the parking area, it’s a 3-kilometer walk to the main waterfall. The hike is relatively easy, well-marked, and suitable for all fitness levels.
📍 Waterfall Coordinates:
42.002° N, 77.577° E
Note: I personally drove to Barskoon with the intention of hiking to the waterfall, but unfortunately got rained out. The photo above is not mine, but included for reference to give you an idea of what to expect on a clear day.