Itinerary

1. Day 1: Arrival in Bishkek and ascent to Ratzek Hut

   • Meet in Bishkek at 08:00 in the morning and begin the journey towards Ala-Archa National Park.
   • Travel to Ala-Archa National Park at 2200 metres and start the trek towards Ratzek Hut.
   • Hike up to Ratzek Hut at 3350 metres, taking approximately 5 hours depending on pace and conditions.
   • Attend introductory lectures on mountain hazards and safety awareness in alpine environments.
   • Practise essential mountaineering knots required for climbing and rope handling techniques.

2. Day 2: Rock skills and rope techniques

   • Train on the rock massif near Ratzek Hut focusing on fundamental climbing techniques in alpine conditions.

   • Learn how to identify and set up secure belay points and construct reliable anchors on rock terrain.

   • Practise scrambling across easy terrain to improve balance, movement, and confidence on natural rock surfaces.

   • Develop top rope belaying skills and experience controlled climbing under guided supervision.

   • Learn safe rope descent techniques including abseiling on rock faces.

   • Gain basic navigation skills in mountainous terrain using practical orientation methods.

3. Day 3: Glacier training at Aksai Glacier

   • Trek to Aksai Glacier at 3800 metres, approximately 2 hours one way from Ratzek Hut, to train in real glacier conditions.

   • Practise safe glacier travel techniques using ice axe and crampons for stability and movement on ice.

   • Learn rope management skills specific to glacier environments for team safety and coordination.

   • Develop skills in setting up secure belay points and constructing anchors directly on ice surfaces.

4. Day 4: Advanced rock training and lead climbing

   • Practise advanced climbing techniques on the rock massif near Ratzek Hut in a controlled alpine setting.
   • Develop deeper understanding of protection placement and construction of secure anchors on rock terrain.
   • Learn and apply belaying techniques for a leader in real climbing scenarios.
   • Gain experience in leading a climb under expert supervision, focusing on decision making and safety.
   • Practise ascending fixed rope systems to build strength, confidence, and technical efficiency.

5. Day 5: Summit attempt of Ratzek Peak

   • Climbing Ratzek Peak at 3972 metres via the Southern ridge (PD-).

6. Day 6: Descent and return to Bishkek

   • Going down from the Hut to Ala-Archa National park entrace (4 hours). Transfer to Bishkek.
   • The schedule can be changed due to safety, weather and group conditions.