Karakol is surrounded by some of the most dramatic scenery in Central Asia, and several outstanding destinations lie within a half-day's drive or a full day's walk. The valleys immediately south and west of town are the obvious choices: Karakol Gorge rises straight from the edge of town into spruce forest and doubles as the gateway to the Ala-Kul trek; Altyn-Arashan is a high valley of hot springs and yurt camps ringed by 4,000-metre peaks; and Jeti-Oguz, west along the lakeshore, is famous for its red sandstone Seven Bulls and flower-filled meadows.
Closer to town, the Przhevalsky Museum and mausoleum sit on a quiet promontory on the lakeshore, a short taxi ride from the centre.
Most guesthouses can arrange 4WD transport to the main valley trailheads for around 1,000–2,000 som, depending on destination. Marshrutkas from the bazaar cover Jeti-Oguz and some other western valleys in the morning and return in the afternoon. For the Przhevalsky Museum on the lakeshore, a short taxi ride suffices.
