Sandwiched between the Middle East and China, Central Asia has earned its status as a crossroads for much of human history and civilisation.
The "Five Stans" of Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan, Turkmenistan and Tajikistan are best known as being the central artery of the ancient Silk Road trading routes that connected the ancient civilisations to the east and west.
But the region was far more than merely a connector between China and Europe, with a glittering – if brutal – history of its own; birthing sprawling empires and flourishing cultures such as the vast Timurid Empire.
Today many of the historical landmarks remain – although heavily reconstructed – in the glittering Islamic cities of Samarkand, Bukhara and Khiva. While out in the hinterlands, you'll find vast steppe and snowcapped mountains, along with the herding communities who have lived here for countless generations.
The cities meanwhile tell their own story of the Soviet era, and their attempts at reinvention since 1991 reinvention – some more successful than others.
It's not necessarily a relaxing vacation destination: if you're looking for lazy afternoons in the sun, you may want to try elsewhere. But if you seek adventure and insights into the incredible, magical, at times awful, human story, well Central Asia is a must.
I'm interested in the Shamshy Gorge to Son-Kul Lake trekking tour. Is there a departure around 1 May, or is that too early in the season?
Answered by: Asel Ismailova
The best time for trekking from Shamshy Gorge to Son-Kul Lake starts from 1–10 June. Before June all the passes are covered by snow, and it would be very difficult to trek in May.
Is early June a good time for horse trekking at Song-Kul Lake?
Answered by: Adri de Koning
The beginning of June is rather early in the season, so you will need warm clothes at this high altitude (3100m). The good thing however is that all spring flowers are blooming then.
We’re planning about 10 days in Kyrgyzstan in August or September. We’d like to see Son Kul, Sary Jaz, a couple of canyons, and do hikes like Lenin Peak Base Camp, Kel-Suu, Kol-Tor, and Ala-Kul, plus maybe 1–2 days of horse riding. Is it realistic to fit this all in, and what would you recommend?
Answered by: Adri de Koning
You’d need around two weeks to include everything. For a 10-day trip, it’s better to leave out Lenin Peak, which requires several days of travel, and focus instead on Son Kul, Kel-Suu, Ala-Kul, and two canyons such as Konorchok and Skazka. This keeps driving manageable and gives a balanced mix of scenery, hiking, and local experiences.
I understand November is too late in the trekking season, but are there any places we can go for day hikes?
Answered by: Adri de Koning
The weather in November is too unpredictable to organise overnight treks, but there are still plenty of options for day hiking. The lower valleys around Chon Kemin and the red-rock canyons of Konorchok and Kok Moinok would be ok. Around Kochkor and Temir-Kanat, there are scenic day routes to viewpoints and mountain villages. At Lake Issyk-Kul you can hike in the Skazka and Jeti Oguz valleys and visit Altyn Arashan by vehicle. These can be organised into a 10 day trip, although be prepared for disruption with changeable weather.
For easy to moderate treks in June/July, would you recommend Jiziu (Tajik National Park) or Shirkent National Park?
Answered by: Kelvin Ngugi
The journey from Nairobi to Tsavo East takes five to six hours, depending on your lodge. So you'll arrive in the evening – maybe with time for a night game drive, but possible not. You'll get a game drive in the morning before heading to Diani.
We'd like to visit Kyrgyzstan in August, but could possibly come a little later in September if it would be more peaceful - what do you suggest?
Answered by: Adri de Koning
It depends where you go hiking – if you follow a more touristic itinerary, for example Ala Kol, or around Issy Kul, perhaps the end of August and into early September would be better. If you're not doing a touristic tour, July and August are the best time – the days are longer and the temperatures are still warm – and you certainly won't be troubled by any crowds.
We are intermediate hikers, looking for something between 6-8 days. Interested in homestays, learning about history and local culture. What would you suggest?
Answered by: Alovaddin Kalonov
For shorter, intermediate hikes with emphasis on culture and homestays, I'd highly recommend focusing on the Fann Mountains in north-western Tajikistan. There are various options here, some with shorter trekking days, others slightly longer to Big Alo Lake and some lesser-known paths. Trekking here is usually moderate and you can stay in a mixture of tents and guesthouses.
The Ak Suu Traverse is a rather difficult trek – the full route may not be suitable for intermediate or less confident hikers. The first four days might be a better option, which can be easily arranged.
For less confident trekkers I'd encourage you to consider other treks. Personally I'd recommend three days trekking around Tong in the Issyk-Kul region. It's much less popular than the Ak Suu Traverse, but is similar in that you'll sleep in tents and your luggage will be carried on horseback. The first two days you hike through forest, alpine meadows, crossing a high pass of 3500m. On the third day the trail descends gently at first. When you enter Tosor gorge, steep red rock formations rise on either side. The Tosor river flows beside the trail, providing cool air and the soothing sound of water. Occasional stream crossings and narrow, rocky paths require care, but nothing technical.
The Lakes Loop isn't possible in November, it's far too cold. Mid-October is the absolute latest, but even then it's not ideal. The best time for the Lakes Loop is from June to the end of September.
Traditionally, the Kyrgyz people were nomads who didn't build houses in the mountains but spent the summers there with their flocks in yurts. It is possible to spend a night in these traditional yurts, but it's very rustic and informal and will depend on the contacts of your guide or trekking operator.
To meet growing interest, there are now fixed yurt camps that cater especially for tourists – this is more like a simple safari camp experience, with a meal tent, separate bathrooms, hot water, and other facilities to make it a bit more comfortable.
There are a few point to point treks that can be done with homestays, guesthouses or yurt camps. There is a network of yurt camps on the Ak Su Transverse trek and the short Ala Kol trek can be done with yurt camps rather than tents, as can the horseback treks in the Pamir Alay Mountains.
If you really don't want to camp, you should try staying in a few different yurt or homestays and doing day hikes from there. Popular spots are around Karakol, Son-Kul and Sary Chalek, others are quieter and not yet so well known. These places you still find on the south side of Lake Issyk-Kul and hiking in the Chon Kemin valley are a good option.
For most treks, the hiking season for organised/supported tours begins in mid-June. You can hike solo before then, but you'll need to be prepared for the cold and rain.
The night time temperatures in June vary from 7 to 10 degrees C. You won't be troubled by mosquitoes in the mountains.
Altitude sickness isn’t a major problem in the Fann Mountains but can be an issue in the eastern Pamirs, where starting elevations are around 3,500m and climb to 4,500m.
If you’re trekking solo, gas canisters are available in Dushanbe, and should be available in Penjikent and Khorog. Otherwise you are betting off bringing all other gear with you.
If you’re trekking with an organised tour operator they’ll supply all necessary equipment other than sleeping bags which may be available to rent.
Gorno-Badakhshan (GBAO) permits are required for all travel in the eastern Pamir. Tajik National Park technically levies a daily park fee, if you actually see a ranger. You need a special permit to visit Lake Sarez in the remote western Pamir.
Horse treks are possible on some routes in the Fann Mountains and in the central Pamirs, notably from Bachor to the stunning lakes of Zarosh Kul and Chapdara Kul. Camel trekking is possible from Murghab in the eastern Pamirs.
The main dangers are the hazards inherent to trekking in a very remote, very wild landscape. You won’t be able to rely on emergency evacuation or even reliable mobile signal. Check your trekking operator has satellite phones or EPIRB beacons for emergencies and don’t even think about trekking in Tajikistan without comprehensive insurance that covers international evacuation.
In terms of personal safety and security there have been isolated incidents of terrorism in the past but things are fairly stable now. I'd advise against anyone regardless of gender trekking alone in Tajikistan.
The treks leading from the Bartang Valley to Sarez Lake and the Pamir plateau are remote, tough and spectacular. Shorter treks in the Fann Mountains and Jizeu Valley are the easiest places to start.
On organised treks and in homestays you’ll be well fed. Hearty laghman (noodle stew) and plov (pilau rice) are common staples.
Expect instant noodles and mashed potatoes if trekking independently. Naan bread, dried fruit and nuts, canned fish and Russian salami are my go-to local trekking snacks.
Organised trekking tours will use a combination of camping (equipment provided) and very basic homestays. Yurt stays are a highlight of trekking in the eastern Pamirs. The valleys of the western Pamir have excellent homestays linked to community-based tourism projects, which I highly recommend.
Be sure to get the latest information on homestays in your trekking region. You won't find them on the trekking trails themselves but they are often at the start and end points of treks and they are always good places to stay and find a local guide. I often arrange my entire itinerary around the availability of homestays, especially when I'm hiking without a tent.
Experienced trekkers can find enough information and maps to trek independently in the Fann Mountains without a guide. You should definitely have a guide in the remoter parts of the Zeravshan range and the wild Pamir valleys.
I’d say it’s fine for older trekkers who are fit and active but it’s no walk in the park. The terrain is rugged and the sun can be very strong. Most treks are above the tree line with little shade. Beyond this, the trekking experience here has few creature comforts: expect rough roads, rustic homestays and unvaried food.
Supported trekking with a guide, porters, pack animals or vehicles solves a lot of problems, but doesn’t make the trails any easier!
July, August and September are the only practical months for trekking here, when the snows have melted and temperatures are comfortable at high altitudes.
Be prepared for some serious heat in lowland Tajikistan in July and August. Temperatures of 40°C are not uncommon in Dushanbe and Penjikent in the summer trekking season, when the mountains are a cool retreat.
In cities, Russian and Kyrgyz are more or less equally common, with English and other foreign languages also heard in the more touristy destinations. In rural regions and especially deep in the mountains, Kyrgyz is by far the more common with Russian a bit behind. Though, oddly, as part of the Soviet educational system German was widely taught and so some old timers can still converse a bit.
The full range of necessary gear is available in trekking hubs (especially Bishkek and Karakol), though footwear for anything larger than about 40cm can be difficult to find. However, the gear available is often low-end Russian equipment (some military, more often Red Fox or similar brands) so Ultralight wannabees will need to bring everything from home.
No permits are required for trekking, but border areas do require a special permit from the Border Guards Service. The most popular tourist and trekking areas that this includes are Peak Lenin Base Camp, Kel-Suu Lake, and Inylchek Glacier and Base Camp areas. While this is possible to do individually, it will require multiple visits over several weeks to various government offices in Bishkek and regional cities. It’s far more practical to pay a tour company $40-50 to do it on your behalf before you arrive in the country.
Basically anywhere that one treks can be done as a horse trek, with a rare few exceptions like Ala-Kol where the primary trail is in parts either too steep or poor footing for horses. Most visitors will arrange these trips in tourist hubs like Karakol, Kochkor, Naryn, or Sary-Mogol; but in principle anyone with the language and horsemanship skills could arrange this directly with shepherds in the mountains.
A few day trips out of Bishkek are suitable for basically any fitness and experience level: Ala-Archa’s waterfall, Belagorka waterfall, and Boirok Birch Grove are all top of mind. In terms of most difficult, the sky's the limit. Peak Lenin is one of the most accessible 7,000m+ peaks on the planet, but with a guide and some climbing training can be done by trekkers.
Kyrgyzstan is safe with the caveats of any wild alpine destination: landslides, flash floods, widowmakers (falling tree branches), and avalanches can and do happen in a mountain environment and you should be prepared for these eventualities.
Solo female travellers need have no specific concerns for Kyrgyzstan, beyond the risks that exist anywhere in the world.
I’m a big fan of the village of Jyrgalan in far eastern Issyk-Kul. It’s one of the few areas where you can walk right out the door and into the start of a hike, and also quite popular for freeride skiers in winter.
To pick one best trek, the Ak Suu Transverse from Jyrgalan to Jeti-Oguz route via Ala-Kol might be it - lakes and waterfalls and one or two passes everyday for a week, in varying scenery and with the Altyn Arashan hot springs right in the middle. It has a bit of everything that makes trekking in Kyrgyzstan delightful.
Shepherds’ yurt camps will typically offer passing visitors tea or fermented horse milk and some small bites but, if trekking solo, you’ll want to carry in your own provisions as much as possible. The major exception is tourist yurt camps, which typically include breakfast and dinner into their pricing schemes.
On an organised trekking tour you'll be well catered for, with three meals a day.
On DIY trek, there is only the accommodation that you carry in on your back. Yurts do exist in most places, but these are typically authentic shepherd’s yurts and not really set up to receive tourists. You may be welcomed in, but expect a very rustic experience, and at any rate you can’t count on it so you’ll still need to lug a tent along.
On organised trekking tours your operator will take care of the camping logistics: you'll have porters striking and setting up camp each day and horses or vehicles transporting camp equipment from stop to stop.
In more popular tourist areas like Ala-Kol and Son-Kol, local community-based tourism programs have established tourist yurts that do reliably receive overnight guests.
Most of Kyrgyzstan’s trekking routes can be done solo, but having a guide or even just a local friend along can open up so many yurt doors and so many incredible interactions along the way: from simply being invited in for tea and a chat to being invited along on horseback to collect the herds from high pastures in the morning.
Despite how amazingly vast the landscapes are, so many of my favourite trekking moments have been borne of these small personal interactions that even the best route planning and map reading could never guarantee.
The major exception might be routes along the southern border with Tajikistan, where recent border clashes mean having a guide and interpreter to hand is probably wise.
The high season is mid-June through mid-September, as higher temperatures mean less snow on high passes and in deep valleys, though it is important to be prepared for any weather all year round at these elevations.
Spring sees hillsides covered in wildflowers and autumn brings bright autumnal foliage, but in both hikers will need to be prepared for lower overnight temperatures and plenty of rain.
Winter does see some snowshoe and cross-country skiers, or in the rare desert areas that see no real precipitation, sometimes a tiny few dedicated hikers.
Most of the trekking in Kyrgyzstan is non-technical and requires no real skill. But there’s plenty of elevation gain most days and very little flat walking, so the focus should really be on assessing the ‘fit and active’ criteria in the lead up to a trip.
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§ 04
The Central Asia atlas
30 picksPlaces & Experiences You Won't Find Elsewhere
Where
What
Duration: 8 days (excluding acclimatisation days)Distance: Approx. 100kmStart/finish: OshAccommodation: Tents and yurt campsDifficulty: Strenuous
Lenin Peak is a fairly well-known and commercially organised trek in the southern Pamir-Alay range on the borders of Tajikistan and China. The trek is offered as a basecamp trek or a summit climb to the very top, a stonking 7,134m above sea level with views stretching right across the Pamirs to China, the Hindu Kush and beyond.
The summit climb is a serious undertaking and requires prior experience, skill and plenty of prior acclimatisation. The basecamp trek gets you to a more achievable 4,400m.
Difficulty: StrenuousDuration: Approx. eight days not including acclimatisationStart/finish: Altyn-ArashanAccommodation: Camping
An exceptional, and little-known summit trek to the roof of the Tian Shan mountains. At 4,770m, climbing Palatka is certainly a challenge but one that requires no technical mountaineering skills, just better than average fitness and an iron will!
You might question your life choices on the way up, but the scenery – especially the views from the summit – are life changing.
There are around eight days of actual trekking, with at least one rest / contingency day built in. Most organised trips will also include several buffer days beforehand for acclimatisation and organising logistics.
Distance: Approx. 80kmDuration: Six daysStart/end point: Enilchek ValleyDifficulty: Moderate to strenuous
This is a really special hike, and probably my top recommendation in all of Kyrgyzstan. It's quiet and remote (you're unlikely to see any other trekkers the entire time), and it culminates at one of the most quirky geological locations in the whole country – the so-called "disappearing" Merzbacher Lake, on the border with China and Kazakhstan.
This is a seasonal glacial lake that fills with meltwater from the Inylchek Glacier each spring and drains in spectacular fashion in late summer. This phenomenon is a rare – and incredibly dramatic and noisy – only witnessed by a lucky few. You'd be exceptionally lucky to time your arrival to witness the lake draining, and the lake itself is not hugely impressive, but the surrounding landscapes make it all worthwhile.
You'll be hiking four to six hours each day, often along rugged and challenging paths. You'll spend the night in tents, or maybe in semi-permanent yurt camps if you're booking an organised trip.
Aksu-Zhabagly Nature Reserve, in the mountains south of Shymkent, has excellent guides and a pioneering homestay programme that will see you overwhelmed with well-intentioned Kazakh cooking. The amazing fauna and flora is, however, the real reason to visit and you should try to time your trip to coincide with the blossoming of tulips. It is nothing short of a dream to see wild horses roam across the rainbow fields during April and May.
No place on the long and winding Silk Road captures the imagination quite like Uzbekistan's Samarkand, the restored 14th-century city and centre of the mighty Timurid Empire.
The dazzle of ceramic tiles lining the monuments is a sight to behold, inviting you to delve into the city’s long and turbulent history. How could Timur, an emperor renowned for his cruelty, be responsible for something as lovely as Samarkand? His conquests clearly paid off: by dragging skilled artisans from around Eurasia to his capital, he created an arresting architectural statement that has stood the test of time.
Samarkand represents the core idea of the Silk Road: a place where east met west, mingling to create something new, and heart-stoppingly beautiful.
The Registan complex of mosque and madrasahs (Islamic schools), decorated with ceramic tiles and presided over by an obviously un-Islamic lion, are at the heart of Samarkand. From here, you can branch out to the enormous Bibi Khanum mosque, or instead visit the striking Gur Emir mausoleum of Timur himself, which would inspire the Taj Mahal, built by Timur’s descendants of the Mughal dynasty.
Overlooking the city sits another monument to the dead: The Shah-i-Zinda necropolis, dating from the 11th century, is an extraordinary collection of mausoleums and shrines – more than 20 buildings of stunning beauty, packed together in a relatively small space. Legend has it that the cousin of the Prophet Muhammad is buried there.
And don’t miss the remains of the 15th century observatory on the edge of the city, built by Ulugh Beg. Here is where he mapped the stars and worked out the length of the year, among other things, with astonishing accuracy.
The Registan is so huge that it’s worth visiting the site several times. Try to visit at different times of the day. This will allow you to pick out different details and to observe the play of light and shadow in the muqarnas. The site is open between 8am-7pm daily and the entrance fee is 50,000 som ($3.90).
Distance: Approx. 60 kmDuration: Six daysStart/finish points: Song-Kul to Tuura-SuuAccommodation : Yurts & campingDifficulty: Moderate
This is a popular route that offers a relatively easy introduction to the stunning Tian-Shan mountains as you hike between the two largest lakes in Kyrgyzstan: Song-Kul and Issyk-Kul.
The route is offered by some operators as a three day itinerary, but in my opinion that’s a touristy option and not a great experience. I usually advise visitors to spend at least six days on this trek, partially to enjoy the beauty of the landscapes, but also to acclimatise to the altitude as you’ll cross three high passes over 3,500 metres along the way.
The total distance is between 58 and 62 km with between seven and 12 hours hiking per day, depending on the conditions. There are some small rivers that have to be crossed and there are two options for the descent into Tuura-Suu. The exact route you follow will depend on the weather and the water levels in the rivers.
You’ll follow ancient trading routes and donkey trails through the mountains, meeting nomadic herdsmen who live there with their horses, sheep and yaks during the summer months. This is where a good guide comes in handy – helping with the language and cultural barriers, and maybe securing an invite to take tea with a herder and their family.
You’ll be staying in yurts at both lakes and wild camping during the hike, and organised treks will use horses to carry your equipment and baggage. The route is only really passable from June until mid-September.
Distance: Approx. 150 kmDuration: Eight to 10 daysStart/end point: Bokonbaeva (Issyk-Kul) to Naryn townAccommodation: CampingDifficulty: Challenging
For experienced trekkers and those looking for a real challenge I usually recommend this route from Issyk-Kul over the dramatic Terskey Ala-too mountains to Naryn town.
The route starts out gently over the Zhazy Kechuu pastures but quickly climbs into the mountains, crossing three high mountain passes, the highest of which, the Jakyp Bolot pass, reaches an eye-watering 3,960 metres. It’s essential you acclimatise before setting off and build rest days into your itinerary where necessary.
I find it hard to describe just how beautiful this route is: you need to see it to believe it. You hike surrounded by snow capped mountains, past dramatic lakes and gorges, through forests and pastures, maybe passing the camps of nomadic herders. It’s a tough route, and not one you can do solo, but you won’t see any other trekkers out there and the scenery is out of this world.
Distance: Approximately 70 kmDuration: Seven daysStart and end point: Karatag to KaratagDifficulty: Mild
Although Shirkent National Park isn’t far from Dushanbe, very few people visit this region of the Fann Mountains, making it a real hidden gem and one of my favourite places to hike anywhere in Tajikistan.
This circular route is a moderate difficulty camping trek that starts at the Katarag gorge before leading up to the once-inhabited Parmin plateau and onto the Shirkent gorge. For two days you can follow the Shirkent Barrier, a colossal massif of heavily eroded sandstone before crossing the Khazor-Khona pass, the trek’s high point at 3,160m. From here you meet the Pariyon River and follow it to the stunning Pariyon Lake before returning to Karatag.
Distance: 95 kmDuration: Nine daysStart and end point: Romit Valley to LailakulDifficulty: Moderate
My favourite trek in the Yagnob Valley region starts in the Romit Valley nature preserve and ends in Lailakul in the Ziddy Valley. The upper part of the valley is just stunning, with great sweeping fields overlooked by towering snow capped peaks. The route follows three separate valleys (Yagnob, Romit and Ziddy) connected by two mountain passes. The passes are steep and follow narrow trails, but no technical skills are required. There are also several river crossings which must be completed with safety ropes.
You’ll be lucky to see locals here, let along other travellers, although you’ll pass by the occasional farming village inhabited by descendants of the ancient Sogdians.
Distance: Approximately 85 kmDuration: Ten daysStart and end point: Bachor to YashilkulDifficulty: Strenuous
The Bachor region of the Pamirs offers some of the most remote, high-altitude and overall challenging trekking anywhere in the Pamirs, and all Tajikistan for that matter.
One of my favourite routes is a ten day hike from Bachor to Yashilkul Lake staying in a mixture of camping and local homestays. This trek hops from one glacial lake to the next, with Kulen Lake topping out at 4,800 metres. But the scenery makes it all well worthwhile, the views over Zaroshkkul Lake can bring you to tears and after dark you’re treated to spectacular night scapes of the Milky Way.
After eight days of high altitude hiking you descend through through the wide valley of the Chapdarkul river to Bachor pasture grazed by herds of yaks, before crossing the river to Yashilkul Lake.
Distance: Approximately 3.1 miles (5 km) round trip Duration: One day Start and end point: Engels Village Difficulty: Moderate
Like the definition of short but sweet, Engels Peak Base Camp day hike is just a 3.1-mile round trip from Engels Village. Engels Peak Base Camp is the starting point for those looking to conquer Engels Peak, one of the significant summits in the Tajik Pamirs. The base camp sits at an altitude of around 4,200 metres and, for those with just a day, is a scenic introduction to Engels Peak without the commitment of a summit climb. The trail is graced with stunning panoramas, rivers, and isolated hamlets, where you can experience the Tajik mountain culture firsthand.
Distance: Approximately 10 miles (15 km) Duration: Two daysStart and end point: Jizeu Village Difficulty: Mild
The 10-mile village-to-village hike cuts through Jizeu Valley, often called "The Jewel of the Pamirs" for its natural beauty. Located in the Bartang Valley, the trek starts at Jizeu Village and traverses scenic landscapes with terraced fields, cliffs, and serene forested areas.
The valley is home to three traditional Pamiri villages - Jizeu, Balunk, and Marjan. Here, you see the age-old Pamiri lifestyle, preserved through generations. There's a chance for cultural immersion, including having tea in the villages or alternating between nights camping and staying in a local homestay.
The area is teeming with wildlife. Sightings of Marco Polo sheep and Ibex are common, and you might spot the elusive snow leopard with luck.
Distance: Approximately 62 miles (100 km) Duration: Eight days Start point: Bachor Village End point: Barchidev Village Difficulty: Strenuous
The Bachor to Sarez Lake trek is a spectacular journey in Tajikistan's Pamir Mountains. This demanding eight-day trek starts in Bachor, a remote village in the Bartang Valley. Accommodation options are primarily camping, with occasional homestays.
The route takes you across high passes, rocky landscapes, and past swift rivers. Along the way, you'll visit secluded villages, experience local Pamiri culture, and witness stunning panoramas of snow-capped peaks. The pinnacle of the journey is the arrival at Sarez Lake, a high-altitude lake created by a devastating earthquake in 1911. The natural dam, Usoi Dam, is the tallest in the world and has trapped a stunning body of water over 55 km long. The lake's deep blue waters set against the stark mountainous backdrop form a breathtaking vista and haven for migratory birds.
Distance: Approximately 27 miles (44 km) Duration: Four to five days Start and end point: Veshab village Difficulty: Moderate
This route proves that hiking doesn't have to be endless ridges and desolate valleys. This trek takes hikers through the heart of the Yagnob Valley, known as the "Living Museum" for its preserved ancient way of life. The trek spans four to five days, starting and ending in Vershab village, accessible from Dushanbe.
You are immediately met with captivating mountain landscapes, pristine rivers, and small traditional villages where locals still speak Yagnobi, a direct descendant of the ancient Sogdian language. A cultural immersion to its core, this hike offers opportunities to experience local life in remote communities largely untouched by modernity. Key highlights include the scenic Marguzor Lakes and the historical ruins in Pskon village, relics of the ancient Sogdian civilization. You’ll stay in homestays along the way, with camping options if you want a more basic experience.
Distance: Approximately 22 miles (35 km) Duration: Two to three days Start point: Haftkul (Seven Lakes) End point: Iskanderkul Difficulty: Moderate
This route runs through Tajikistan's Fann Mountains from the uniquely coloured Seven Lakes, known as Haftkul, to Iskanderkul, a picturesque turquoise glacial lake.
Over two to three days, you’ll tackle diverse terrain from verdant valleys to stark high-altitude passes. Along the route, you'll encounter traditional mountain villages and semi-nomadic shepherds. The rich biodiversity of the region also means you might spot wildlife, including mountain goats and marmots, and if you're particularly lucky, the elusive snow leopard. The trek concludes at Iskanderkul, sitting at 2,195 metres elevation. The lake's beauty, set against the backdrop of the Fann Mountains, makes a remarkable end to the journey. Accommodation throughout is a mixture of homestays and camping.
Distance: Approximately 20 miles (32 km) Duration: Three to four days Start and end point: Artuch Alp Camp Difficulty: Strenuous
The 20-mile Lakes Loop traverses the Fann Mountains, a spectacular subrange of the Pamir-Alay mountain system in Tajikistan's Sughd Province. These mountains are well known among the trekking community for their untouched wilderness, breathtaking alpine lakes, and rugged, towering peaks. You’ll be camping throughout your hike and need to bring all your essential gear.
The trek is moderately difficult, involving a steep ascent to the Alaudin Pass, which sits at an elevation of around 3,860 metres. This trail loops around the Kulikalon and Alaudin lakes, allowing you to appreciate their crystal-clear turquoise waters surrounded by snow-capped peaks.
Kulikalon Lakes, located in the Kulikalon Valley, has three main lakes: Bibijanat, Kulikalon (Dushoha), and Taudaha. They are set amidst lush meadows with the rugged wall of the Mirali Peak as a backdrop. Further along, the trail is the crystal clear emerald-green Alaudin Lake, located at the base of the Alaudin Pass.
Distance: 1,297 kmNumber of sections: 9Best season: July-SeptemberDifficulty: Moderate to strenuous, depending on the sectionType of accommodation: camping and homestays
Labour of love by adventurer and travel writer, Jan Bakker, the Pamir Trail must be one of the most newest, most ambitious and most daunting long-distance thru-hikes anywhere on earth. Nearly 1,300 km running across the width of Tajikistan, the trail connects the relatively accessible Fann Mountains with the remote and wild Pamirs. As of yet only a few hardy solo trekkers have completed the trail in full, but it is now fully mapped and pioneering tour operators are beginning to offer supported treks along some stretches of the trail.
Learn more on the official website.
Distance: Approx. 90 km Duration: Six days Start and end: Sarymogol village Difficulty: Moderate to Strenuous
The Heights of Alay Valley is a scenic long-distance trek that cuts through Kyrgyzstan's picturesque southern region. Most nights will be spent camping under the stars, providing a genuine connection with the wilderness or local community at a local yurt homestay.
The trek involves crossing several high-altitude passes, including the Koshmoinok and Jiptik passes, where you'll be rewarded with views of the Pamir and Tian Shan ranges and the expansive Alay Valley. You traverse vast pastures, rugged slopes, and riverside trails, with the chance to encounter local shepherds and their livestock. And famously, you see the red rock formations of “Three Dragons Gorge."
Distance: Approx. 30 km Duration: Two to three days Start and end: Karakol town Difficulty: Strenuous
This is a rewarding but tough trek in the Karakol area and makes a quieter alternative to some of the region’s more popular routes. Note that it’s not a peak trek – unless you're mountaineering you don't reach the summit of Karakol Mountain, but you do get to the ‘basecamp’ where you can spend time exploring the Ontor glacier. It can be easily combined with other hikes in the region, such as the popular Ala Kol trek.
Distance: Approx. 30 km Duration: Four days Start and end: Arslanbob village Difficulty: Moderate
The Arslanbob Holy Lakes hike takes you on a four-day round trip through the largest walnut forest in the world and a community deeply rooted in traditional Kyrgyz culture.
Starting and ending in Arslanbob, the trail ascends into the mountains, through forests, meadows, and eventually, to the trek's highlight - the two serene Holy Lakes. Local folklore preaches that these lakes are where the Prophet Muhammad prayed and left his footprint. The Holy Lakes hike provides an ideal blend of cultural immersion and natural beauty, with the added allure of local legends. Accommodation ranges from guesthouses in the village to camping near the lakes.
Distance: Approx. 40 km Duration: Six to eight days Start: At-Jailoo End: Base Camp (South Inylchek Glacier) Difficulty: Strenuous
Khan Tengri is one of the highest peaks in the Tian Shan Mountains, standing over 7,000 metres. The Khan Tengri Base Camp trek takes you up close to Khan Tengri, all without the commitment of a more technically challenging summit climb – but this is still serious business, with the potential for heavy snows even during the narrow trekking window of July and August.
The journey begins in At-Jailoo (via Karakol) and traverses approximately 40 km over six to eight days to reach the base camp situated on the South Inylchek Glacier.
The trek takes you through valleys, across streams, and over moraines, all while offering captivating vistas of rugged peaks and sprawling glaciers. You'll also pass Merzbacher Lake, which is an interested trek in its own right. However, the trek's highlight is the panoramic view of Khan Tengri from the base camp, nicknamed "Blood Mountain" at sunset.
Nights are spent in tents, which will be provided by your trekking operator. You'll need to bring your own sleeping bag (four seasons) and a sleeping mat.
Most people on organised tours leave basecamp by helicopter, although of course it's perfectly possible to hike back out again.
Distance: Approx. 45 km Duration: Three days Start / end: Jyrgalan Village Difficulty: Strenuous
If you are hiking in Kyrgyzstan, it's fair to guess that you'd prefer to skip the busy trails and get off the beaten path. One such hike is the Bulak-Ashuu Lakes Trek, which ventures to the pristine Bulak-Ashuu Lakes in the Alay mountain range. This is a remote and tranquil camping trek, through some truly stunning scenery.
Starting and ending at Jyrgalan village, the trek's terrain varies from valleys, alpine meadows, and rugged mountain paths. One of the key attractions of the trek is the chain of azure Bulak-Ashuu Lakes. The hike offers exceptional views of these high-altitude lakes and snow-capped mountain peaks.
Distance: Approx. 55 miles (90km)Duration: Eight daysStart point: MadaniyatEnd point: Sary-Chelek National ReserveDifficulty: Strenuous
This trek is an intense, eight-day journey across breathtaking landscapes and challenging terrain. The trek is best experienced from the end of June to mid-September and is notable for the abundant and varied wildlife in Sary-Chelek National Park.
This adventurous hike takes you over the majestic Talas Range, crossing two passes over 3,000m, requiring good physical condition and appropriate equipment. Along the way you’ll encounter nomadic life, orthographic art by indigenous communities, and might even catch a glimpse of marmots and griffon vultures.
The trail winds its way through scenic river valleys, glaciated landscapes, and walnut and fruit forests, leading to the stunning Sary-Chelek Lake, nestled at the foot of the Chatkal mountain range. The lake’s greenish-blue waters are an exquisite sight, rivalling the beauty of the world's finest lakes.
Accommodations include a mix of camping and local home stays.
Distance: Approx. 55 kmDuration: Three daysStart: Karakol ValleyEnd: Ak-SuuDifficulty: Moderate
The 55 km Ala-Köl Trek is the most popular (and busiest) hike in Kyrgyzstan, drawing hikers with iconic views over Ala-Köl lake.
This is a good hike to spend a few days at a high elevation in Kyrgyzstan's beautiful mountains, and only of moderate difficulty.
This trek begins from the Karakol Valley and ends in the Altyn Arashan Valley. The journey traverses diverse terrains, from meadows to forests, through the Terskey Alatau mountain range in the Tian Shan Mountains. The highlight is the Ala-Köl Pass, with its lake and mountain peak views. And accommodation is a mix of guest houses, camping, and yurts.
While Uzbekistan is well-known for its history, few people realise current-day Turkmenistan also played an important role in the history of the Persian empires that ruled Central Asia for three millennia. This trip explores that history, visiting ruins across The Karakum Desert.Less visited than Antarctica, you can be certain of a warm welcome from the Turkmen people. Key sights include the Darwaza gas crater and the marble extravaganza of Ashgabat making this an exciting once-in-a-lifetime trip.This is a circular route, starting and ending in Tashkent. First, head to Samarkand to visit monuments like the Registan and Shah-i-Zinda.Take the overnight train to Urgench from which it is a short drive to Khiva where you can take in the desert fortresses of Khwarezm.Konye-Urgench is just across the border from Khiva, an ancient town full of ruins to explore. After spending the night at Dashoguz, the next day, camp out in the desert for Turkmenistan’s most famous sight, the Darwaza gas crater, also known as 'the Door to Hell'.After a four hour drive across the desert, reach Ashgabat, one of the most relaxed areas to visit, budget an extra day here to wander unaccompanied and do some souvenir shopping.Fly on to Merv and experience the fantastic echo in the lonely mausoleum of Sultan Sanjar and take a 4WD to visit the surrounding sights. After crossing the desert one last time, you say farewell to Turkmenistan and arrive once more in the hustle and bustle of Uzbekistan. Bukhara possesses the nation’s most atmospheric hammam.To return home, you can take the new fast train to Tashkent or opt to take the slow overnight train.
This is the classic Kazakhstan & Kyrgyzstan itinerary, a route for the landscape lover. Desert, valley, mountain, forest, lake and steppe are all packed together in the small Zhetisu area. Learn more about the history and culture of Kazakhs and Kyrgyz, while being hosted in small villages in the most beautiful part of their country.
This itinerary starts in Almaty and finishes in Bishkek, although you could do it in reverse just as easily. If pressed for time, a shorter version of this loop would leave out Kazakhstan, and start and finish in Bishkek.
From Almaty, there are two ways to start exploring what tour operators often call “the Golden Ring of Zhetisu”. One route goes east directly, past the wild apple forests of Talgar and the kurgans of Esik, straight to Charyn Canyon and the Kolsai lakes. The other option is to detour north, to the Altyn Emel national park, for a 2- or 3-day wildlife safari in search of ibex and kulan.
Cross the boarder at the Karkara valley, stopping over at San Tash before reaching Karakol, on the eastern side of Lake Issyk-Kul.
There's lots to explore here from the Seven Bulls at Zheti-Oguz and the sandstone Fairytale Valley to Barskoon where you can learn how to build a yurt or ride a horse to one of the nearby waterfalls.
Stop off at Song Kol lake before heading to Suusamyr valley as your journey winds down, following the M41 through the outskirts of Bishkek to finally arrive in the centre of the nation’s capital.
Hiding in plain sight, Kazakhstan’s vast territory holds a lot of interest for the amateur archaeologist and the flower fanatic, but also for the architect, the armchair politician and the Cold War history hound. You can enjoy the vast expanses of nature, and the unshackled feeling you get from traversing such a shoreless place. People, as of yet unaccustomed to tourism, will welcome you in, surprised, happy and puzzled. Why did you come to Kazakhstan? Only the road can provide that answer.Kazakhstan is such a big place, one can only hope to explore a little bit of it at a time. Far-flung jewels like the western Mangystau desert and the magic Altai mountains are stunning in their own right, but due to their remoteness, they require a dedicated trip. Luckily, you can get a taste of each in the Almaty region, where this itinerary starts.Starting in the Almaty region, visit Altyn Emel and Charyn Canyon, spot roaming bears and explore the lakes in Ili-Alatau National Park and explore the city itself. From Almaty, an overnight train or short flight brings you to Shymkent. Those who elect to do the whole itinerary by car can stop over at the mausoleum of Aisha Bibi in Taraz.After spending a few days exploring Shymkent, head to Astana where you will take a few days to explore the numerous monuments, spend an evening at the opera and visit the local shops and restaurants. For a different view of Kazakhstan, take a day trip to Karaganda. This working-class town is dominated by mines and smoke-belching chimneys, so it initially comes as a surprise Karaganda has 4 theatre companies serving an obviously cultured city populace.You can also visit the Korgalzhyn Nature Reserve which has the world’s most northerly flock of flamingos.
Visiting Uzbekistan is a feast for the senses, from the wonderful tile-work decorating madrassas and mosques to bustling markets and bazaars. Wander through narrow streets along adobe houses and get to know the friendly Uzbeks in one of many tea houses. Spend a night in a desert yurt or in a homestay with a Tajik family, or get spoiled in a boutique hotel instead.Starting in Tashkent, after spending time exploring the city, take the train to Samarkand and take a couple of days to take in the sights.A direct train will take you to Bukhara, or you can opt to make the journey by car, stopping at caravanserais and minarets along the way. If you have an extra two days take the roundabout way to Bukhara through the Nuratau mountains.There is no rail connection between Bukhara and Khiva, so the next part of the journey needs to be done by road-- a seven-hour ride. Its remoteness makes this desert khanate little-visited by the majority of tourists.From Urgench near Khiva, a flight back to Tashkent brings your journey to an end.
This is an itinerary of the exotic, a route for those ready to take the road less known, who want to discover a wild and beautiful landscape, meet warm and wonderfully hospitable people, and walk in the steps of the giants of history, from Alexander the Great to Marco Polo. Travel conditions are not up to Western standards, but what you forego in comfort, you get back in lifelong memories.Travel back in time as you move up the Pamir Highway to find people living much the same as centuries ago before spending some time in Dushanbe.You can then follow the Uzbekistan loop, starting in Tashkent. After spending time exploring the city, take the train to Samarkand and take a couple of days to take in the sights.A direct train will take you to Bukhara, or you can opt to make the journey by car, stopping at caravanserais and minarets along the way. If you have an extra two days take the roundabout way to Bukhara through the Nuratau mountains.There is no rail connection between Bukhara and Khiva, so the next part of the journey needs to be done by road-- a seven-hour ride. Its remoteness makes this desert khanate little-visited by the majority of tourists.From Urgench near Khiva, a flight back to Tashkent brings your journey to an end.
Four very different nations with a shared past, the Four Stans, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan and Turkmenistan, occupy the heart of Eurasia. Turkic nations with similar languages and a mutual history under the Soviet Union, these four countries have taken wildly different paths since independence.This popular route will take you through searing deserts and over high mountain passes. One moment you are horseback riding over mountain meadows in seclusion, the next moment arguing over prices at a bustling city market. You’ll go from catnapping in a nomad’s tent to unwinding in a luxurious B&B.If you are unafraid to cover a lot of ground in a short amount of time and want to experience all that Central Asia has to offer: this is the route for you.
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