Nature & Culture Treasures of Central Asia

Trekking in the Tian Shan Mountains and Sightseeing in Osh, Samarkand, Bukhara and Khiva

 

 

Country: Kyrgyzstan, Tien-Shan mountains, Uzbekistan View the route map »»
Tour duration: 15 days / 14 nights, 17 days / 16 nights
15 days itinerary: BishkekOsh – Aflatun River Valley – Lake Sary-Chelek – Kara-Suu River Valley – Lake Iri-Kol – Osh – RishtanKokand TashkentSamarkandBukhara – Tashkent
17 days itinerary: BishkekOsh – Aflatun River Valley – Lake Sary-Chelek – Kara-Suu River Valley – Lake Iri-Kol – Osh – RishtanKokand TashkentSamarkandBukharaKhiva – Urgench

In this group tour we combined trekking in the mountains of Kyrgyzstan and excursions to the ancient cities of Uzbekistan. Within one trip, you will be able to look at two countries from various sides and enjoy the whole palette of their versatility, including beautiful mountains and architectural wonders of human.

You will spend the first half of the trip in the protected area of the Western Tian Shan. Trekking takes place along easy mountain trails in coniferous forests and deep gorges, near large beautiful lake Sary-Chelek. The group is accompanied by a mountain guide, a service staff and horses. 

In the second half of the tour we will return to the civilization and moving from Kyrgyzstan to Uzbekistan through green Fergana Valley – the land of hereditary artisans and ancient traditions of hand-made delicate silk and original ceramics. We will visit pottery workshops, and then go to legendary cities of the Silk Road – Tashkent, Samarkand, Bukhara and Khiva. Medieval oriental architecture, an abundance of fresh fruits and vegetables in the bazaars, amazing Uzbek cuisine and sincere hospitality are waiting for you in sunny Uzbekistan!

  • 15 DAYS PROGRAM
  • 17 DAYS PROGRAM

 

  • Itinerary,
    Services & Cost
  • Visa
  • Route description,
    Personal gear, Services
  • Useful Information,
    Visa, permits

 

Itinerary:
Day 1. Arrival in Bishkek. Domestic flight Bishkek – Osh.
Arrival in the international airport “Manas” (Bishkek).
Domestic flight to Osh. Meeting at the airport of Osh. Transfer and check in at the hotel after 14:00. Leisure time.
Overnight at the hotel.

Day 2. Transfer Osh – Aflatun River Valley (350 km, 7 h).
Transfer from Osh to Aflatun river valley, which is located in the eastern part of the southern slope of the largest range in the Western Tian Shan – Chatkal Range. We set up a tent camp in a picturesque place, right at the confluence of the Aflatun and Utur rivers, in the shade of walnut trees.
Travel time: 7 hrs; altitude difference: +340 m.
Meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner.
Overnight in a tent (1300 m).

Day 3. South Aflatun – Uyalma (18 km).
Start of the trekking route. Trekking up along the South Aflatun river valley to its confluence with the Uyalma tract. A rather good dirt road runs along the canyon of the river among the picturesque spruce forests, it perfect fits for the first day of the route.
Lunch in the birch forest by the river. Then we continue the trekking up along the gorge to the confluence of the rivers, which forms a wide valley covered with green lawns and spruce forest.
Travel time: 7 hours; altitude difference: + 600 m.
Meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner.
Overnight in a tent (1900 m).

Day 4. Uyalma River – Kuldambes Pass (2750 m) – Lake Sary-Chelek. (11 km).
Trekking over Kuldambes pass (2750 m) and then descent to Lake Sary-Chelek via Ashuu pass (2551 m).
Easy trekking over Kuldambes pass is done at the background of picturesque landscapes of Uyalma Valley and the Chatkal Ridge. After crossing Kuldambes pass we continue the way to Ashuu pass – the viewpoint with stunning views of lake Sary-Chelek and the valley.
Descent from Ashuu pass to the lake Sary-Chelek valley. Lake Sary-Chelek is one of the most beautiful alpine lakes and the third deepest lake in Central Asia. Sary-Chelek resulted from an enormous landslide blocking the eponymous river, which happened about 10000 years ago.
Travel time: 8 hours; altitude difference: +850 m; -850 m.
Meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner.
Overnight in a tent (1900 м).

Day 5. Lake Sary-Chelek – Makmal Pass (2654 m) – Kara-Suu River Valley (13 km).
We leave lake Sary-Chelek shores and trek upstream the Sary-Chelek river to its confluence with the Makmal river. A path along the river will lead us first to alpine meadows, and then to the wide saddle-point of Makmal pass (2654 m). From the saddle of the pass it is possible to make a simple ascent to the nearby summit. Lunch at the pass.
Descent along the Kurumdu river to the Kara-Suu river valley.
Travel time: 7–8 hrs; altitude difference: +755 m; -755 m.
Meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner.
Overnight in a tent (1900 м).

Day 6. Kara-Suu River Valley – Lake Kara-Suu (8 km).
After two intense previous days, the descent along the river valley to the lake Kara-Suu (Karakamysh) is very light and slow. The lake is incredibly beautiful and is located in a very picturesque gorge. The main highlight is the stunning view from the shores of the lake to the Min-Teke mountain range.
After lunch, horseback riding, acquaintance with the life of nomads.
Travel time: 4-5 hours; altitude difference: -100 m.
Meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner.
Overnight in a tent (1800 m).

Day 7. Kara-Suu River Valley – Kuturma pass (2446 m) – Lake Iri-Kol (7 km).
After trekking along lake Kara-Suu we start an easy ascent to Kuturma pass (2446 m). A picturesque path runs between juniper trees and rocks. From the pass there opens a stunning panorama of southern part of lake Sary-Chelek. Descent from the pass is quite steep, but not too long, and soon we pass through the flowering fields and reach the banks of the lake Iri-Kol.
Travel time: 6 hours; altitude difference: +646 m; -446 m.
Meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner.
Overnight in a tent (2000 m).

Day 8. Lake Iri-Kol – Lake Sary-Chelek (5 km). Transfer to Osh (320 km).
Trekking from the lake Iri-Kol to the southern part of the lake Sary-Chelek. The route runs through apple orchards along numerous turquoise lakes. Along the way, magical landscapes of the most beautiful mountains of Kyrgyzstan continue to open at each new turn.
Transfer to Osh. Time for walking around the city.
Travel time: 9 hours; altitude difference: -940 m.
 Meals: breakfast, lunch.
 Overnight at a hotel.

Day 9. Osh (sightseeing). Osh – Rishtan – Kokand (180 km, 5 h).
Osh is the “southern capital” of Kyrgyzstan. The city is located on the east side of the Fergana valley, at an altitude of roughly 1000 meters, and is surrounded by low rocky spurs of the Alay Range on three sides.
Sightseeing in Osh: sacred Sulayman-Too Mountain and museum in a cave. The national historical and archaeological museum complex Sulayman-Too Sacred Mountain is the main attraction of Osh and the only site located entirely on the territory of Kyrgyzstan that has been included in the World Heritage List by UNESCO.
Transfer to the land border with Uzbekistan. Border formalities.
Transfer to Rishtan, the main ceramics center of Uzbekistan. The city is famous for its incredible glazed ceramics which are popular among tourists as souvenirs.
Visiting the Center of Ceramics, acquaintance with the masters and their crafts. Demonstration of ceramic pottery making process.
Transfer to Kokand, the former capital of the Khanate of Kokand (18th-19th centuries).
Meals: breakfast.
Overnight at a hotel.

Day 10. Kokand (sightseeing). Kokand – Tashkent (240 km, 4 h).
Kokand is located right at the entrance to the fruitful Fergana valley, used to be an important stop point of the Great Silk Road and used to be a part of the ancient state of Davan. Its flourishing happened in the 18th century when it became the capital of Kokand khanate and the religious center of the region – in the past, there were 40 madrasas and 300 mosques in Kokand.
Sightseeing in Kokand: Khudoyar-Khan Palace, Modari-Khan Mausoleum, Djami Mosque, Necropolis Dakhma-i-Shahon.
Transfer to Tashkent via the Kamchik pass (2285 m).
Meals: breakfast.
Overnight at a hotel.

Day 11. Tashkent (sightseeing). Tashkent - Samarkand (330 km, 5 h).
Tashkent is the multifaceted capital of the modern country of Uzbekistan and the republic’s center of cultural and political life. Tashkent’s architecture is striking in its diversity and variety: archaeological monuments from the Zoroastrianism era that are more than 2200 years old, architectural masterpieces of the Middle Ages, monumental buildings of the late 19th century, the most beautiful underground subway in the world, and of course, the numerous modern buildings.
Sightseeing in Tashkent (Old town): Khast-Imam Square, Barak-Khan Madrasah, Kafal-al-Shashi Mausoleum, Kukeldash Madrasah, the oldest bazaar of Tashkent “Chorsu”.
Lunch at the famous Central Asian Plov Centre "Besh Kozon", where genuine Tashkent plov is cooked in huge cauldrons. There you can see the whole process of cooking from roasting meat to laying vegetables, spices and rice.
Transfer to Samarkand, the capital of ancient Sogdiana – Marakanda. Sogdiana was an ancient civilization between the Amu Darya and the Syr Darya rivers.
Meals: breakfast, lunch.
Overnight at a hotel.

Day 12. Samarkand (sightseeing).
Samarkand is as old as Rome, it is one of the most ancient cities in the world and former capital of the great Tamerlane empire. It is a museum city, a city which was once the heart of the caravan trade in the midst of the Great Silk Road. Samarkand conserved its unique aura of the Oriental medieval age until this very day.
Sightseeing in Samarkand: Gur-e Amir Mausoleum – necropolis of the Timurids; the most impressive square in the entire Central Asia – the Registan Square (Madrasah of Ulugbek, Sher-Dor Madrasah, Tilya-Kori Madrasah); Bibi-Khanym Mosque; the famous Siab bazaar; architectural ensemble Shah-i-Zinda; Ulugbek Observatory museum.
Meals: breakfast.
Overnight at a hotel.

Day 13. Samarkand - Bukhara (280 km, 4–5 h).
Travel time: 4-5 hours.
Transfer to Bukhara, another ancient city in Uzbekistan which also used to be part of the Great Silk Road. Medieval Bukhara was one of the main political, cultural, and religious hubs of the Middle East. Over 140 architectural monuments have been preserved here. The historical center of Bukhara is included in the list of World Heritage Sites recognized by UNESCO.
Sightseeing in Bukhara: Lyab-i Hauz Architectural Ensemble, Kukeldash Madrasah, Nadir Divan-Begi Madrasah. domed shopping arcade. Visit the shopping district with domed shopping arcade of the 16th century, where national arts and handicrafts workshops are presented.
Meals: breakfast.
Overnight at a hotel.

Samarkand

Day 14. Bukhara (sightseeing). Bukhara – Tashkent (580 km, 4 h).
Continuation of sightseeing in Bukhara and surroundings: Mausoleum of Samanids, Chashma Ayub Mausoleum, Bolo-Khauz Complex, Ark Citadel, Po-i-Kalyan Complex, Abdulaziz-Khan Madrasah, Ulugbek Madrasah.
Transfer to Tashkent by train. Meeting at the railway station, check-in at the hotel.
Meals: breakfast.
Overnight at a hotel.

Bukhara

Day 15. Tashkent (departure).
Transfer to the airport. The end of the tour program.
Departure from Tashkent.

Bukhara

COST OF THE TOUR IN USD::

The cost for 1 person 1954 USD
Single supplement at hotels +302 USD

This tour is guaranteed and will be arranged whatever final number of persons in a group.

The cost of the tour includes:

  • Meeting/seeing-off at airport according to tourist's flight arrival/departure time.
  • Comfortable transport for transfers according to the program.
  • Accommodation at a hotel 3* on twin/double sharing basis with breakfasts.
  • Domestic flight Bishkek – Osh (Economy class, weight limit for luggage is 15 kg).
  • Railway transfer of Bukhara – Tashkent destination (ticket of economy class, seated places).
  • All needed documents arrangement:
    • permit for visiting the territory of Sary-Chelek Nature Reserve,
    • ecological fee.
  • Services during the trekking to Lake Sary-Chelek:
  • Bivouac and kkitchen equipment rental during the trekking to Lake Sary-Chelek:

The cost of the tour doesn’t include:

  • International flights.
  • Cost of meals in cities (other than specified in the program).
  • Medical costs and insurance.

Additional Services:

  • Supplement for additional night on departure:
    • Single room – 50 USD / per room / per night,
    • Double room – 60 USD / per room / per night.
  • Supplement for an individual transfer airport – hotel – airport:
    • sedan: +25 USD one way,
    • minibus: + 40 USD one way.

Additional information about trekking

Throughout the trekking, all personal belongings and equipment are carried by horses.
Since all your things are carried by horses, all you are to do is to enjoy the surrounding landscapes. Our guests travel light, carry only a camera, sunscreen and a bottle of water. The transportation of all equipment, both group and personal (including any personal belongings), is the duty of our staff.
Equipment is provided free of charge for personal use:
We provide our guests with trekking equipment for the entire duration of the tour for free:
  • sleeping bag,
  • telescopic ski sticks for trekking,
  • raincoat,
  • forehead flashlight,
  • camping sleeping pad,
  • metal thermos bottle,
  • tableware.
Service staff.
The escort team includes a guide, a cook, assistant chefs, waiters, dishwashers and handymen. The team sets up camping site, cooks food, sets the tables, washes dishes, controls the transportation of all equipment, both group and personal, and does all the invisible work in order to create comfort during the trekking.
Meals
Throughout the trekking tour, three times a day you will be provided with diverse hot meals, with attention to vegetarians. Breakfast, lunch and dinner are prepared by our chef and his assistants, while guests enjoy the views and relax. Kitchenware for cooking and tableware are also provided in full.

Accommodation.
This tour comes with the following accommodation:

City Accomodation
Tien-Shan mountains Tent camp
Osh Sunrise Osh Hotel 3* or similar
Kokand Silk Road Kokand 3* or similar
Tashkent Samir 3* / Orient Grand Hotel 3* or similar
Samarkand Arba 3* / Jahon Palace 3* or similar
Bukhara Kabir Hotel 3* / Kavsar Hotel 3* or similar
Khiva Shams 3* / Shokh Jahon Hotel 3* or similar

Transport in Kyrgyzstan

Group Type of transport
Group 1-3 pax. "Mitsubishi Delica"
Group 4-15 pax. "Mercedes-Benz Sprinter"

Transport in Uzbekistan

Group Type of transport
Group 1-2 pax. "Chevrolet Lacetti"
Group 3-6 pax. "Hyundai Grand Starex"
Group 7-9 pax. "Toyota Hiace" / "King Long"
Group 10-15 pax. "Mitsubishi Rosa" / "Eurise"
Group 16-30 pax. "Golden Dragon"

 

Visa and Visa invitation to Uzbekistan:

Visa-free regime for up to 60 days has been established  for citizens of countries below:

  • Azerbaijan
  • Armenia
  • Belarus
  • Georgia
  • Kazakhstan
  • Kyrgyzstan
  • Moldova
  • Russia
  • Ukraine

Visa-free regime for up to 30 days has been established  for citizens of countries below:

  • Andorra
  • Argentina
  • Australia
  • Austria
  • Belgium
  • Bosnia and Herzegovina
  • Brazil
  • Brunei Darussalam
  • Bulgaria
  • Canada
  • Chile
  • Croatia
  • Czech Republic
  • Denmark
  • Estonia
  • Finland
  • France
  • Germany
  • Greece
  • Hungary
  • Iceland
  • Indonesia
  • Ireland
  • Israel
  • Italy
  • Japan
  • The Republic of Korea
  • Latvia
  • Liechtenstein
  • Lithuania
  • Luxembourg
  • Malaysia
  • Malta
  • Monaco
  • Mongolia
  • Montenegro
  • Netherlands
  • New Zealand
  • Norway
  • Poland
  • Portugal
  • Republic of Cyprus
  • Romania
  • San Marino
  • Serbia
  • Slovakia
  • Slovenia
  • Spain
  • Sweden
  • Switzerland
  • Tajikistan
  • Turkey
  • Singapore
  • the Vatican
  • United Arab Emirates
  • United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland

Read more about visa to Uzbekistan here »»

 

Visa to Kyrgyzstan

Under current rules visa-free stay within unlimited period on the territory of Kyrgyzstan is granted for the nationals of the following countries:

  • Armenia
  • Azerbaijan
  • Belorussia
  • Cuba
  • Georgia
  • Kazakhstan
  • Laos
  • Moldova
  • North Korea
  • Russia
  • Tajikistan
  • Vietnam

List of states granted visa-free stay up to 90 days: Mongolia, Ukraine.

List of states granted visa-free stay up to 60 days

  • Australia
  • Austria
  • Andorra
  • Argentina
  • Brazil
  • Bahrain
  • Belgium
  • Bosnia and Herzegovina
  • Britain
  • Brunei Darussalam
  • Canada
  • Chile
  • Croatia
  • Czech Republic
  • Denmark
  • Estonia
  • Finland
  • France
  • Germany
  • Greece
  • Hungary
  • Iceland
  • Ireland
  • Italy
  • Japan
  • Kuwait
  • Latvia
  • Liechtenstein
  • Lithuania
  • Luxembourg
  • Malta
  • Monaco
  • Netherlands
  • New Zealand
  • Norway
  • Poland
  • Portugal
  • Qatar
  • Republic of Korea
  • Saudi Arabia
  • Singapore
  • Slovakia
  • Slovenia
  • Spain
  • Sweden
  • Switzerland
  • Turkey
  • United Arab Emirates
  • United States of America
  • Uzbekistan
  • Vatican

Visa-free access to Kyrgyzstan up to 30 days: Malaysia.

Read more about visa to Kyrgyzstan here »»

 

Itinerary brief description

This trekking is rather easy and is suitable for anyone with good physical condition. Tourist above 16 and under 65 years of age can join this tour provided they have no serious health problems and their doctor does not object to participation in such kind of tourist activities. Children above 14 can also join this trekking tour provided they are accompanied by their parents.

Trekking to high altitude lake Sary-Chelek and other lakes of the Western Tien-Shan.

Trekking on foot covers from 10km to 18km a day with altitude difference up to 850m. The route runs at the maximum altitude of 2750m above sea level (Kuldambes pass).

Each participant carries his own rucksack with personal belongings, supply of drinking water and first-aid kit. The rest of the gear (the weight of the gear should not exceed 15kg per person), as well as group camping equipment and supply of provisions is transported by pack-horses. Typically the region enjoys rather stable weather: it’s warm and sunny, though some rain is possible, which relieves the monotony of the trip. The daytime temperatures range between +15° to +30°С, whereas at night the temperature can drop as low as +8 or +10°С.

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Equipment on route

- Tents are used for accommodation of two persons. The tents are wind-resisting and water-proof and are suitable for any weather conditions. For your comfort the tents are equipped with firm air-beds as well as comfortable sleeping bags with individual lining.
- Tent camp also has a big hangar-like mess tent with tables and camp chairs.
- Throughout the trek we provide quality tableware.
- To cook dishes during the trek we provide gas burner with gas cylinders or a supply of firewood.
- The tent camp is equipped with portable WC.

Any trekking group is provided with portable radio transmitters and GPS navigator.

We also offer the travelers small a flashlight for forehead with extra batteries.

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List of personal gear provided by Central Asia Travel company

Sleeping bag.
Sleeping pad.
Raincoat.
Telescopic ski sticks for trekking.
Metallic vacuum flask 0.5 - 1.0 litres.
Forehead flashlight.

List of personal gear which tourist should bring himself

Trekking boots or hiking shoes and/or sandals (Teva, Keen or similar).
Assault jacket GORE-TEX (RedFox Vector GTX III or similar).
Suit POLARTEC (for instance, jacket BASK Kondor V3 + trousers BASK Vinson Pro V2)
Skin tight linen thermals POLARTEC thin thermals to wick moisture away from the skin (for instanceRedFox Dry Zone)
Thin Gloves, Fleece, Polartec, WindBloc and thick insulated gloves (for instance,RedFox Ice)
Peaked cap or panama hat + insulated winter hat.
Knitted T-shirts.
Thermal socks, like Boreal TREK Thermolite or similar + ordinary socks.
Backpack 40-60 l.
Lip balm.
Sun cream (SPF 25-40).
Sunglasses.
First-aid kit (personal).

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Service staff

Throughout the trekking travel you will be escorted by high altitude guide, who is the tour manager and our authorized representative. He is responsible for the safety and security of the group as well as decision making, including any changes in the route due to unforeseen circumstances that could threaten the health and well-being of the participants.

The tour is serviced by a team whose responsibility is to pitch and take down tents, lay the table for meals, wash up, pack the loads on horses, make fire and the like.

The team also includes a dedicated professional cook and a horse handler who is responsible for proper packing of the loads on horses and porterage.

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Meals

Throughout the trek programme you will be served hot meals three times a day.
Below you can find the menu of one of the trekking days:

Завтрак  

Breakfast:

First dish: cereal porridge (semolina, oats, rice).
Second dish: cooked eggs with sausages, omelette, pancakes, thick pancakes, toasted bread, cottage cheese pancake, etc.
Buffet table: cheese, sausage, assorted bread, butter, ketchup, marmalade, chocolate paste, sweets, cookies, wafers, dried cream, honey, sugar, halavah.
Drinks: selection of hot drinks, such as tea (black and green), coffee, cocoa.

Обед  

Lunch:

Buffet lunch: assorted bread, fresh salads, canned fish, cheese, sheep cheese, assorted meat appetizers, tea (black and green) sweets, cookies, wafers, fruits (apples, pears), dried fruits (apricot, raisin, figs, etc.), assorted nuts.
*In case of camp lunch first course is added.

Ужин  

Dinner:

First course - soup (European or local cuisine).
Second course - various dishes of European cuisine with assorted garnish, as well as a choice of local dishes.
Buffet table: assorted bread, cheese, sausage, ketchup, spices (mustard, various dressings), sweets, cookies, wafers, sugar.
Drinks: selection of hot drinks, such as tea (black and green), coffee, cocoa, thin jelly.
Dessert: watermelon, melon, fruits.

Starting point

Tourists should arrive to Osh - the starting point of the tour on the date the tour begins. All expenses connected with early arrival or late departure on completion of the tour should be covered by tourists themselves. In this case our company can arrange transfers to and from the airport as well as book the hotel.

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Route Map

Route Map

 

Frequently Asked Questions

  ► Memo: Useful tips for tourists »»

  1. Who can attempt this trek? Should the participants of the tour have prior trekking experience or prepare themselves physically?
  2. Can people with health problems participate in this programme?
  3. Is travel insurance compulsory for this tour?
  4. What is the weather like in the mountains?
  5. Is it possible to swim in the lakes?
  6. What are the probabilities of encountering some dangerous creatures (besides relatively harmless mosquitoes) such as snakes, spiders, scorpions, mites etc.?
  7. Is it allowed to pick up mountain herbs and flowers? Which plants should be avoided?
  8. How are meals organized during the trek programme?
  9. How about communication facilities during trek travel?
  10. How good is Internet access?
  11. Visa, permits.
  1. Who can attempt this trek? Should the participants of the tour have prior trekking experience or prepare themselves physically?
    This trekking is rather easy and is suitable for anyone with good physical condition. Tourist above 16 and under 65 years of age can join this tour provided they have no serious health problems and their doctor does not object to participation in such kind of tourist activities. Children above 14 can also join this trekking tour provided they are accompanied by their parents.
    The offered trekking tour can be graded as simple-average, which means no special skills in mountaineering are required. The escort team consists of an experienced high altitude guide able to choose the right path and advise you on the precautions to be taken in each section of the route. During the tour you will have to trek on foot long distances. Therefore the only condition for those willing to participate in this trekking programme is absence of medical contraindications to such activities.
  2. Can people with health problems participate in this programme?
    Please note, that the route of the tour runs through mountains with considerable altitude differences (the maximum altitude is 2750 m above sea level). The participants can experience some symptoms of altitude sickness which disappear when the descent from the mountains starts. Therefore the tour may not be suitable for persons suffering from heart or respiratory problems (hypertension, asthma). We recommend you to consult your doctor before planning this tour.
  3. Is travel insurance compulsory for this tour?
    Yes, it is. The medical insurance of up to $ 10,000- 15,000 should be obtained before leaving your homeland.
  4. What is the weather like in the mountains?
    In the summer the weather is fair and sunny with daytime temperature reaching +28°С. At night, however, and on rainy days the temperature drops to +8 or + 10ºС which makes the availability of warm jacket rather useful.
  5. Is it possible to swim in the lakes?
    Most definitely it is. In summertime the temperature in the lakes is about 17-19°С. No wonder many travelers like to experience some bracing bathing. So don’t forget your swimsuit.
  6. What are the probabilities of encountering some dangerous creatures (besides relatively harmless mosquitoes) such as snakes, spiders, scorpions, mites etc.?
    Though such a probability exists, it is too small as proved by our long experience of organizing trekking tours.
  7. Is it allowed to pick up mountain herbs and flowers? Which plants should be avoided?
    It is advisable not to touch the plants you are not familiar with as some of them can be rather toxic (for example giant fennel can sting you when you touch its leaves). It is forbidden to pick up Red Book plants. The mountain slopes are home to many medicinal herbs including mint, origan, thyme, which you can pick up and brew a delicious ‘mountain tea’. The banks of the rivers are covered with bushes of dog rose and sea-buckthorn.
  8. How are meals organized during the trek programme?
    You will be escorted by a cook and other service staff responsible for arranging regular and tasty meals. You don’t need to bother about tableware, kitchen utensils and equipment as we provide all these as well as tables, chairs, and tents throughout the whole trek programme.
    Drinking water is provided from crystal-clear mountain springs. However, it is recommended to drink only boiled water. In cities and during long transfers it is advisable to use bottled water.
    Below you can find the menu of one of the trekking days:
    Breakfast:
    First dish: cereal porridge (semolina, oats, rice).
    Second dish: cooked eggs with sausages, omelette, pancakes, thick pancakes, toasted bread, cottage cheese pancake, etc.
    Buffet table: cheese, sausage, assorted bread, butter, ketchup, marmalade, chocolate paste, sweets, cookies, wafers, dried cream, honey, sugar, halavah.
    Drinks: selection of hot drinks, such as tea (black and green), coffee, cocoa.
    Lunch:
    Buffet lunch: assorted bread, fresh salads, canned fish, cheese, sheep cheese, assorted meat appetizers, tea (black and green) sweets, cookies, wafers, fruits (apples, pears), dried fruits (apricot, raisin, figs, etc.), assorted nuts.
    *In case of camp lunch first course is added.
    Dinner:
    First course - soup (European or local cuisine).
    Second course - various dishes of European cuisine with assorted garnish, as well as a choice of local dishes.
    Buffet table: assorted bread, cheese, sausage, ketchup, spices (mustard, various dressings), sweets, cookies, wafers, sugar.
    Drinks: selection of hot drinks, such as tea (black and green), coffee, cocoa, thin jelly.
    Dessert: watermelon, melon, fruits.
  9. How about communication facilities during trek travel?
    Cellular telecommunication is available in Osh and on the way to Aflatun settlement. In the mountainous areas, especially in mountain valleys, there are difficulties with signal receipt. Tour manager is equipped with portable satellite terminal to provide uninterrupted external link. Moreover, the group is provided with walkie-talkie to ensure trouble-free connection between trekkers.
  10. How good is Internet access?
    Internet access is available only in Osh. There are many internet-cafes there.
  11. Visa, permits.
    Kyrgyzstan has considerably simplified its visa policy and today citizens of 70 countries of the world enjoy visa-free access to this Central Asian state.
    Visa-free entry to the territory of Kyrgyzstan is granted for the nationals of the Russia, the CIS countries and a number of citizens of European and other foreign countries.
    The details on Kyrgyz visa, rules of entry and stay on the territory of Kyrgyzstan you can find here.
    To enter the territory of Kyrgyzstan the foreign national must have a foreign passport valid for not less than 6 months following the termination date of the tour.
    It is also important that before their trip to Kyrgyzstan foreign nationals arrange travel medical insurance with coverage of up to $10,000-15,000.

 

  • Itinerary,
    Services & Cost
  • Visa
  • Route description,
    Personal gear, Services
  • Useful Information,
    Visa, permits

 

Itinerary:
Day 1. Arrival in Bishkek. Domestic flight Bishkek – Osh.
Arrival in the international airport “Manas” (Bishkek).
Domestic flight to Osh. Meeting at the airport of Osh. Transfer and check in at the hotel after 14:00. Leisure time.
Overnight at the hotel.

Day 2. Transfer Osh – Aflatun River Valley (350 km, 7 h).
Transfer from Osh to Aflatun river valley, which is located in the eastern part of the southern slope of the largest range in the Western Tian Shan – Chatkal Range. We set up a tent camp in a picturesque place, right at the confluence of the Aflatun and Utur rivers, in the shade of walnut trees.
Travel time: 7 hrs; altitude difference: +340 m.
Meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner.
Overnight in a tent (1300 m).

Day 3. South Aflatun – Uyalma (18 km).
Start of the trekking route. Trekking up along the South Aflatun river valley to its confluence with the Uyalma tract. A rather good dirt road runs along the canyon of the river among the picturesque spruce forests, it perfect fits for the first day of the route.
Lunch in the birch forest by the river. Then we continue the trekking up along the gorge to the confluence of the rivers, which forms a wide valley covered with green lawns and spruce forest.
Travel time: 7 hours; altitude difference: + 600 m.
Meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner.
Overnight in a tent (1900 m).

Day 4. Uyalma River – Kuldambes Pass (2750 m) – Lake Sary-Chelek. (11 km).
Trekking over Kuldambes pass (2750 m) and then descent to Lake Sary-Chelek via Ashuu pass (2551 m).
Easy trekking over Kuldambes pass is done at the background of picturesque landscapes of Uyalma Valley and the Chatkal Ridge. After crossing Kuldambes pass we continue the way to Ashuu pass – the viewpoint with stunning views of lake Sary-Chelek and the valley.
Descent from Ashuu pass to the lake Sary-Chelek valley. Lake Sary-Chelek is one of the most beautiful alpine lakes and the third deepest lake in Central Asia. Sary-Chelek resulted from an enormous landslide blocking the eponymous river, which happened about 10000 years ago.
Travel time: 8 hours; altitude difference: +850 m; -850 m.
Meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner.
Overnight in a tent (1900 м).

Day 5. Lake Sary-Chelek – Makmal Pass (2654 m) – Kara-Suu River Valley (13 km).
We leave lake Sary-Chelek shores and trek upstream the Sary-Chelek river to its confluence with the Makmal river. A path along the river will lead us first to alpine meadows, and then to the wide saddle-point of Makmal pass (2654 m). From the saddle of the pass it is possible to make a simple ascent to the nearby summit. Lunch at the pass.
Descent along the Kurumdu river to the Kara-Suu river valley.
Travel time: 7–8 hrs; altitude difference: +755 m; -755 m.
Meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner.
Overnight in a tent (1900 м).

Day 6. Kara-Suu River Valley – Lake Kara-Suu (8 km).
After two intense previous days, the descent along the river valley to the lake Kara-Suu (Karakamysh) is very light and slow. The lake is incredibly beautiful and is located in a very picturesque gorge. The main highlight is the stunning view from the shores of the lake to the Min-Teke mountain range.
After lunch, horseback riding, acquaintance with the life of nomads.
Travel time: 4-5 hours; altitude difference: -100 m.
Meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner.
Overnight in a tent (1800 m).

Day 7. Kara-Suu River Valley – Kuturma pass (2446 m) – Lake Iri-Kol (7 km).
After trekking along lake Kara-Suu we start an easy ascent to Kuturma pass (2446 m). A picturesque path runs between juniper trees and rocks. From the pass there opens a stunning panorama of southern part of lake Sary-Chelek. Descent from the pass is quite steep, but not too long, and soon we pass through the flowering fields and reach the banks of the lake Iri-Kol.
Travel time: 6 hours; altitude difference: +646 m; -446 m.
Meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner.
Overnight in a tent (2000 m).

Day 8. Lake Iri-Kol – Lake Sary-Chelek (5 km). Transfer to Osh (320 km).
Trekking from the lake Iri-Kol to the southern part of the lake Sary-Chelek. The route runs through apple orchards along numerous turquoise lakes. Along the way, magical landscapes of the most beautiful mountains of Kyrgyzstan continue to open at each new turn.
Transfer to Osh. Time for walking around the city.
Travel time: 9 hours; altitude difference: -940 m.
 Meals: breakfast, lunch.
 Overnight at a hotel.

Day 9. Osh (sightseeing). Osh – Rishtan – Kokand (180 km, 5 h).
Osh is the “southern capital” of Kyrgyzstan. The city is located on the east side of the Fergana valley, at an altitude of roughly 1000 meters, and is surrounded by low rocky spurs of the Alay Range on three sides.
Sightseeing in Osh: sacred Sulayman-Too Mountain and museum in a cave. The national historical and archaeological museum complex Sulayman-Too Sacred Mountain is the main attraction of Osh and the only site located entirely on the territory of Kyrgyzstan that has been included in the World Heritage List by UNESCO.
Transfer to the land border with Uzbekistan. Border formalities.
Transfer to Rishtan, the main ceramics center of Uzbekistan. The city is famous for its incredible glazed ceramics which are popular among tourists as souvenirs.
Visiting the Center of Ceramics, acquaintance with the masters and their crafts. Demonstration of ceramic pottery making process.
Transfer to Kokand, the former capital of the Khanate of Kokand (18th-19th centuries).
Meals: breakfast.
Overnight at a hotel.

Day 10. Kokand (sightseeing). Kokand – Tashkent (240 km, 4 h).
Kokand is located right at the entrance to the fruitful Fergana valley, used to be an important stop point of the Great Silk Road and used to be a part of the ancient state of Davan. Its flourishing happened in the 18th century when it became the capital of Kokand khanate and the religious center of the region – in the past, there were 40 madrasas and 300 mosques in Kokand.
Sightseeing in Kokand: Khudoyar-Khan Palace, Modari-Khan Mausoleum, Djami Mosque, Necropolis Dakhma-i-Shahon.
Transfer to Tashkent via the Kamchik pass (2285 m).
Meals: breakfast.
Overnight at a hotel.

Day 11. Tashkent (sightseeing). Tashkent - Samarkand (330 km, 5 h).
Tashkent is the multifaceted capital of the modern country of Uzbekistan and the republic’s center of cultural and political life. Tashkent’s architecture is striking in its diversity and variety: archaeological monuments from the Zoroastrianism era that are more than 2200 years old, architectural masterpieces of the Middle Ages, monumental buildings of the late 19th century, the most beautiful underground subway in the world, and of course, the numerous modern buildings.
Sightseeing in Tashkent (Old town): Khast-Imam Square, Barak-Khan Madrasah, Kafal-al-Shashi Mausoleum, Kukeldash Madrasah, the oldest bazaar of Tashkent “Chorsu”.
Lunch at the famous Central Asian Plov Centre "Besh Kozon", where genuine Tashkent plov is cooked in huge cauldrons. There you can see the whole process of cooking from roasting meat to laying vegetables, spices and rice.
Transfer to Samarkand, the capital of ancient Sogdiana – Marakanda. Sogdiana was an ancient civilization between the Amu Darya and the Syr Darya rivers.
Meals: breakfast, lunch.
Overnight at a hotel.

Day 12. Samarkand (sightseeing).
Samarkand is as old as Rome, it is one of the most ancient cities in the world and former capital of the great Tamerlane empire. It is a museum city, a city which was once the heart of the caravan trade in the midst of the Great Silk Road. Samarkand conserved its unique aura of the Oriental medieval age until this very day.
Sightseeing in Samarkand: Gur-e Amir Mausoleum – necropolis of the Timurids; the most impressive square in the entire Central Asia – the Registan Square (Madrasah of Ulugbek, Sher-Dor Madrasah, Tilya-Kori Madrasah); Bibi-Khanym Mosque; the famous Siab bazaar; architectural ensemble Shah-i-Zinda; Ulugbek Observatory museum.
Meals: breakfast.
Overnight at a hotel.

Day 13. Samarkand - Bukhara (280 km, 4–5 h).
Travel time: 4-5 hours.
Transfer to Bukhara, another ancient city in Uzbekistan which also used to be part of the Great Silk Road. Medieval Bukhara was one of the main political, cultural, and religious hubs of the Middle East. Over 140 architectural monuments have been preserved here. The historical center of Bukhara is included in the list of World Heritage Sites recognized by UNESCO.
Sightseeing in Bukhara: Lyab-i Hauz Architectural Ensemble, Kukeldash Madrasah, Nadir Divan-Begi Madrasah. domed shopping arcade. Visit the shopping district with domed shopping arcade of the 16th century, where national arts and handicrafts workshops are presented.
Meals: breakfast.
Overnight at a hotel.

Samarkand

Day 14. Bukhara (sightseeing).
Continuation of sightseeing in Bukhara and surroundings: Mausoleum of Samanids, Chashma Ayub Mausoleum, Bolo-Khauz Complex, Ark Citadel, Po-i-Kalyan Complex, Abdulaziz-Khan Madrasah, Ulugbek Madrasah.
Meals: breakfast.
Overnight at a hotel.

Bukhara

Day 15. Bukhara – Khiva (440 km, 8 h).
Transfer to Khiva through the famous Kyzylkum desert along the Amu Darya River. We will pass along the road, where many Silk Road caravans once slowly followed. “Kyzylkum” translates as “Red Sands”, and the local sand really has a reddish tint. We will make several stops and walk along the picturesque dunes, admire the amazing panorama of the Amu Darya River from a viewing point.
Arrival in Khiva. Walking around the historical districtItchan Kala (18 century) which is the walled inner town of the old Khiva oasis and State Museum-Reserve protected as a World Heritage Site.
Meals: breakfast.
Overnight at the hotel.

Bukhara

Day 16. Khiva (sightseeing).
Khiva (over 2500 years old) is a bright and almost untouched example of a medieval Orient city. Itchan-Kala will appear before us in the guise of a revived city from an oriental fairytale. Every building of Ichan-Kala is a unique architectural monument and on its own is an attraction for tourists.
Sightseeing in Khiva (Itchan-Kala): Pakhlavan Makhmoud Complex, Kunya-Ark Fortress, Islam Hajji Madrasah & Minaret, Tash Khauli Palace, Alakuli Khan Madrasah, Juma Mosque, Mukhammad Aminkhan Minaret & Madrasah.
Meals: breakfast.
Overnight at the hotel.

Bukhara

Day 17. Khiva – Urgench (40 km, 1 h).
Transfer to the airport of Urgench city.
The end of the tour program.
Departure from Urgench.
Meals: breakfast.

Bukhara

COST OF THE TOUR IN USD

The cost for 1 person 2060 USD
Single supplement at hotels +330 USD

This tour is guaranteed and will be arranged whatever final number of persons in a group.

The cost of the tour includes:

  • Meeting/seeing-off at airport according to tourist's flight arrival/departure time.
  • Comfortable transport for transfers according to the program.
  • Accommodation at a hotel 3* on twin/double sharing basis with breakfasts.
  • Domestic flight Bishkek – Osh (Economy class, weight limit for luggage is 15 kg).
  • All needed documents arrangement:
    • permit for visiting the territory of Sary-Chelek Nature Reserve,
    • ecological fee.
  • Services during the trekking to Lake Sary-Chelek:
  • Bivouac and kkitchen equipment rental during the trekking to Lake Sary-Chelek:

The cost of the tour doesn’t include:

  • International flights.
  • Cost of meals in cities (other than specified in the program).
  • Medical costs and insurance.

Additional Services:

  • Supplement for additional night on departure:
    • Single room – 50 USD / per room / per night,
    • Double room – 60 USD / per room / per night.
  • Supplement for an individual transfer airport – hotel – airport:
    • sedan: +25 USD one way,
    • minibus: + 40 USD one way.
  • Domestic flight Urgench – Tashkent: from 60 USD for a ticket.

 

Throughout the trekking, all personal belongings and equipment are carried by horses.
Since all your things are carried by horses, all you are to do is to enjoy the surrounding landscapes. Our guests travel light, carry only a camera, sunscreen and a bottle of water. The transportation of all equipment, both group and personal (including any personal belongings), is the duty of our staff.
Equipment is provided free of charge for personal use:
We provide our guests with trekking equipment for the entire duration of the tour for free:
  • sleeping bag,
  • telescopic ski sticks for trekking,
  • raincoat,
  • forehead flashlight,
  • camping sleeping pad,
  • metal thermos bottle,
  • tableware.
Service staff.
The escort team includes a guide, a cook, assistant chefs, waiters, dishwashers and handymen. The team sets up camping site, cooks food, sets the tables, washes dishes, controls the transportation of all equipment, both group and personal, and does all the invisible work in order to create comfort during the trekking.
Meals
Throughout the trekking tour, three times a day you will be provided with diverse hot meals, with attention to vegetarians. Breakfast, lunch and dinner are prepared by our chef and his assistants, while guests enjoy the views and relax. Kitchenware for cooking and tableware are also provided in full.

Accommodation
This tour comes with the following accommodation:

City Accomodation
Tien-Shan mountains Tent camp
Osh Sunrise Osh Hotel 3* or similar
Kokand Silk Road Kokand 3* or similar
Tashkent Reikartz Xon / Sato 3* or similar
Samarkand Arba 3* / Jahon Palace 3* or similar
Bukhara Kabir Hotel 3* / Kavsar Hotel 3* or similar
Khiva Shams 3* / Shokh Jahon Hotel 3* or similar

Tent Camp
Accommodation in tents, 2 persons in a tent. Tents are designed for all weather conditions, they are wind-resistant and waterproof, for comfortable staying mats and sleeping bags will be provided. The tent camp is equipped with a big dining-tent with tables and camp chairs. We use camping gas burners and gas bottles or firewood (collected along the way) for cooking. The tent camp is equipped with portable camping WC. Communication means are always available on the route.

Hotels.
We offer accommodation in cozy hotels often decorated in a national style. It is completely unique: it combines modern comfort and a unique culture of hospitality.

Transport:
During the tour the following types of transport will be provided depending on the number of people in a group:

In Kyrgyzstan:

Group Venicle
Group 1–3 pax "Mitsubishi Delica"
Group 4–15 pax "Mercedes-Benz Sprinter"

In Uzbekistan:

Group Type of transport
Group 1-2 pax. "Chevrolet Lacetti"
Group 3-6 pax. "Hyundai Grand Starex"
Group 7-9 pax. "Toyota Hiace" / "King Long"
Group 10-15 pax. "Mitsubishi Rosa" / "Eurise"
Group 16-30 pax. "Golden Dragon"

 

Visa and Visa invitation to Uzbekistan:

Visa-free regime for up to 60 days has been established  for citizens of countries below:

  • Azerbaijan
  • Armenia
  • Belarus
  • Georgia
  • Kazakhstan
  • Kyrgyzstan
  • Moldova
  • Russia
  • Ukraine

Visa-free regime for up to 30 days has been established  for citizens of countries below:

  • Andorra
  • Argentina
  • Australia
  • Austria
  • Belgium
  • Bosnia and Herzegovina
  • Brazil
  • Brunei Darussalam
  • Bulgaria
  • Canada
  • Chile
  • Croatia
  • Czech Republic
  • Denmark
  • Estonia
  • Finland
  • France
  • Germany
  • Greece
  • Hungary
  • Iceland
  • Indonesia
  • Ireland
  • Israel
  • Italy
  • Japan
  • The Republic of Korea
  • Latvia
  • Liechtenstein
  • Lithuania
  • Luxembourg
  • Malaysia
  • Malta
  • Monaco
  • Mongolia
  • Montenegro
  • Netherlands
  • New Zealand
  • Norway
  • Poland
  • Portugal
  • Republic of Cyprus
  • Romania
  • San Marino
  • Serbia
  • Slovakia
  • Slovenia
  • Spain
  • Sweden
  • Switzerland
  • Tajikistan
  • Turkey
  • Singapore
  • the Vatican
  • United Arab Emirates
  • United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland

Read more about visa to Uzbekistan here »»

 

Visa to Kyrgyzstan

Under current rules visa-free stay within unlimited period on the territory of Kyrgyzstan is granted for the nationals of the following countries:

  • Armenia
  • Azerbaijan
  • Belorussia
  • Cuba
  • Georgia
  • Kazakhstan
  • Laos
  • Moldova
  • North Korea
  • Russia
  • Tajikistan
  • Vietnam

List of states granted visa-free stay up to 90 days: Mongolia, Ukraine.

List of states granted visa-free stay up to 60 days

  • Australia
  • Austria
  • Andorra
  • Argentina
  • Brazil
  • Bahrain
  • Belgium
  • Bosnia and Herzegovina
  • Britain
  • Brunei Darussalam
  • Canada
  • Chile
  • Croatia
  • Czech Republic
  • Denmark
  • Estonia
  • Finland
  • France
  • Germany
  • Greece
  • Hungary
  • Iceland
  • Ireland
  • Italy
  • Japan
  • Kuwait
  • Latvia
  • Liechtenstein
  • Lithuania
  • Luxembourg
  • Malta
  • Monaco
  • Netherlands
  • New Zealand
  • Norway
  • Poland
  • Portugal
  • Qatar
  • Republic of Korea
  • Saudi Arabia
  • Singapore
  • Slovakia
  • Slovenia
  • Spain
  • Sweden
  • Switzerland
  • Turkey
  • United Arab Emirates
  • United States of America
  • Uzbekistan
  • Vatican

Visa-free access to Kyrgyzstan up to 30 days: Malaysia.

Read more about visa to Kyrgyzstan here »»

 

Itinerary brief description

This trekking is rather easy and is suitable for anyone with good physical condition. Tourist above 16 and under 65 years of age can join this tour provided they have no serious health problems and their doctor does not object to participation in such kind of tourist activities. Children above 14 can also join this trekking tour provided they are accompanied by their parents.

Trekking to high altitude lake Sary-Chelek and other lakes of the Western Tien-Shan.

Trekking on foot covers from 10km to 18km a day with altitude difference up to 850m. The route runs at the maximum altitude of 2750m above sea level (Kuldambes pass).

Each participant carries his own rucksack with personal belongings, supply of drinking water and first-aid kit. The rest of the gear (the weight of the gear should not exceed 15kg per person), as well as group camping equipment and supply of provisions is transported by pack-horses. Typically the region enjoys rather stable weather: it’s warm and sunny, though some rain is possible, which relieves the monotony of the trip. The daytime temperatures range between +15° to +30°С, whereas at night the temperature can drop as low as +8 or +10°С.

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Equipment on route

- Tents are used for accommodation of two persons. The tents are wind-resisting and water-proof and are suitable for any weather conditions. For your comfort the tents are equipped with firm air-beds as well as comfortable sleeping bags with individual lining.
- Tent camp also has a big hangar-like mess tent with tables and camp chairs.
- Throughout the trek we provide quality tableware.
- To cook dishes during the trek we provide gas burner with gas cylinders or a supply of firewood.
- The tent camp is equipped with portable WC.

Any trekking group is provided with portable radio transmitters and GPS navigator.

We also offer the travelers small a flashlight for forehead with extra batteries.

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List of personal gear provided by Central Asia Travel company

Sleeping bag.
Sleeping pad.
Raincoat.
Telescopic ski sticks for trekking.
Metallic vacuum flask 0.5 - 1.0 litres.
Forehead flashlight.

List of personal gear which tourist should bring himself

Trekking boots or hiking shoes and/or sandals (Teva, Keen or similar).
Assault jacket GORE-TEX (RedFox Vector GTX III or similar).
Suit POLARTEC (for instance, jacket BASK Kondor V3 + trousers BASK Vinson Pro V2)
Skin tight linen thermals POLARTEC thin thermals to wick moisture away from the skin (for instanceRedFox Dry Zone)
Thin Gloves, Fleece, Polartec, WindBloc and thick insulated gloves (for instance,RedFox Ice)
Peaked cap or panama hat + insulated winter hat.
Knitted T-shirts.
Thermal socks, like Boreal TREK Thermolite or similar + ordinary socks.
Backpack 40-60 l.
Lip balm.
Sun cream (SPF 25-40).
Sunglasses.
First-aid kit (personal).

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Service staff

Throughout the trekking travel you will be escorted by high altitude guide, who is the tour manager and our authorized representative. He is responsible for the safety and security of the group as well as decision making, including any changes in the route due to unforeseen circumstances that could threaten the health and well-being of the participants.

The tour is serviced by a team whose responsibility is to pitch and take down tents, lay the table for meals, wash up, pack the loads on horses, make fire and the like.

The team also includes a dedicated professional cook and a horse handler who is responsible for proper packing of the loads on horses and porterage.

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Meals

Throughout the trek programme you will be served hot meals three times a day.
Below you can find the menu of one of the trekking days:

Завтрак  

Breakfast:

First dish: cereal porridge (semolina, oats, rice).
Second dish: cooked eggs with sausages, omelette, pancakes, thick pancakes, toasted bread, cottage cheese pancake, etc.
Buffet table: cheese, sausage, assorted bread, butter, ketchup, marmalade, chocolate paste, sweets, cookies, wafers, dried cream, honey, sugar, halavah.
Drinks: selection of hot drinks, such as tea (black and green), coffee, cocoa.

Обед  

Lunch:

Buffet lunch: assorted bread, fresh salads, canned fish, cheese, sheep cheese, assorted meat appetizers, tea (black and green) sweets, cookies, wafers, fruits (apples, pears), dried fruits (apricot, raisin, figs, etc.), assorted nuts.
*In case of camp lunch first course is added.

Ужин  

Dinner:

First course - soup (European or local cuisine).
Second course - various dishes of European cuisine with assorted garnish, as well as a choice of local dishes.
Buffet table: assorted bread, cheese, sausage, ketchup, spices (mustard, various dressings), sweets, cookies, wafers, sugar.
Drinks: selection of hot drinks, such as tea (black and green), coffee, cocoa, thin jelly.
Dessert: watermelon, melon, fruits.

Starting point

Tourists should arrive to Osh - the starting point of the tour on the date the tour begins. All expenses connected with early arrival or late departure on completion of the tour should be covered by tourists themselves. In this case our company can arrange transfers to and from the airport as well as book the hotel.

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Route Map

Route Map

 

Frequently Asked Questions

  ► Memo: Useful tips for tourists »»

  1. Who can attempt this trek? Should the participants of the tour have prior trekking experience or prepare themselves physically?
  2. Can people with health problems participate in this programme?
  3. Is travel insurance compulsory for this tour?
  4. What is the weather like in the mountains?
  5. Is it possible to swim in the lakes?
  6. What are the probabilities of encountering some dangerous creatures (besides relatively harmless mosquitoes) such as snakes, spiders, scorpions, mites etc.?
  7. Is it allowed to pick up mountain herbs and flowers? Which plants should be avoided?
  8. How are meals organized during the trek programme?
  9. How about communication facilities during trek travel?
  10. How good is Internet access?
  11. Visa, permits.
  1. Who can attempt this trek? Should the participants of the tour have prior trekking experience or prepare themselves physically?
    This trekking is rather easy and is suitable for anyone with good physical condition. Tourist above 16 and under 65 years of age can join this tour provided they have no serious health problems and their doctor does not object to participation in such kind of tourist activities. Children above 14 can also join this trekking tour provided they are accompanied by their parents.
    The offered trekking tour can be graded as simple-average, which means no special skills in mountaineering are required. The escort team consists of an experienced high altitude guide able to choose the right path and advise you on the precautions to be taken in each section of the route. During the tour you will have to trek on foot long distances. Therefore the only condition for those willing to participate in this trekking programme is absence of medical contraindications to such activities.
  2. Can people with health problems participate in this programme?
    Please note, that the route of the tour runs through mountains with considerable altitude differences (the maximum altitude is 2750 m above sea level). The participants can experience some symptoms of altitude sickness which disappear when the descent from the mountains starts. Therefore the tour may not be suitable for persons suffering from heart or respiratory problems (hypertension, asthma). We recommend you to consult your doctor before planning this tour.
  3. Is travel insurance compulsory for this tour?
    Yes, it is. The medical insurance of up to $ 10,000- 15,000 should be obtained before leaving your homeland.
  4. What is the weather like in the mountains?
    In the summer the weather is fair and sunny with daytime temperature reaching +28°С. At night, however, and on rainy days the temperature drops to +8 or + 10ºС which makes the availability of warm jacket rather useful.
  5. Is it possible to swim in the lakes?
    Most definitely it is. In summertime the temperature in the lakes is about 17-19°С. No wonder many travelers like to experience some bracing bathing. So don’t forget your swimsuit.
  6. What are the probabilities of encountering some dangerous creatures (besides relatively harmless mosquitoes) such as snakes, spiders, scorpions, mites etc.?
    Though such a probability exists, it is too small as proved by our long experience of organizing trekking tours.
  7. Is it allowed to pick up mountain herbs and flowers? Which plants should be avoided?
    It is advisable not to touch the plants you are not familiar with as some of them can be rather toxic (for example giant fennel can sting you when you touch its leaves). It is forbidden to pick up Red Book plants. The mountain slopes are home to many medicinal herbs including mint, origan, thyme, which you can pick up and brew a delicious ‘mountain tea’. The banks of the rivers are covered with bushes of dog rose and sea-buckthorn.
  8. How are meals organized during the trek programme?
    You will be escorted by a cook and other service staff responsible for arranging regular and tasty meals. You don’t need to bother about tableware, kitchen utensils and equipment as we provide all these as well as tables, chairs, and tents throughout the whole trek programme.
    Drinking water is provided from crystal-clear mountain springs. However, it is recommended to drink only boiled water. In cities and during long transfers it is advisable to use bottled water.
    Below you can find the menu of one of the trekking days:
    Breakfast:
    First dish: cereal porridge (semolina, oats, rice).
    Second dish: cooked eggs with sausages, omelette, pancakes, thick pancakes, toasted bread, cottage cheese pancake, etc.
    Buffet table: cheese, sausage, assorted bread, butter, ketchup, marmalade, chocolate paste, sweets, cookies, wafers, dried cream, honey, sugar, halavah.
    Drinks: selection of hot drinks, such as tea (black and green), coffee, cocoa.
    Lunch:
    Buffet lunch: assorted bread, fresh salads, canned fish, cheese, sheep cheese, assorted meat appetizers, tea (black and green) sweets, cookies, wafers, fruits (apples, pears), dried fruits (apricot, raisin, figs, etc.), assorted nuts.
    *In case of camp lunch first course is added.
    Dinner:
    First course - soup (European or local cuisine).
    Second course - various dishes of European cuisine with assorted garnish, as well as a choice of local dishes.
    Buffet table: assorted bread, cheese, sausage, ketchup, spices (mustard, various dressings), sweets, cookies, wafers, sugar.
    Drinks: selection of hot drinks, such as tea (black and green), coffee, cocoa, thin jelly.
    Dessert: watermelon, melon, fruits.
  9. How about communication facilities during trek travel?
    Cellular telecommunication is available in Osh and on the way to Aflatun settlement. In the mountainous areas, especially in mountain valleys, there are difficulties with signal receipt. Tour manager is equipped with portable satellite terminal to provide uninterrupted external link. Moreover, the group is provided with walkie-talkie to ensure trouble-free connection between trekkers.
  10. How good is Internet access?
    Internet access is available only in Osh. There are many internet-cafes there.
  11. Visa, permits.
    Kyrgyzstan has considerably simplified its visa policy and today citizens of 70 countries of the world enjoy visa-free access to this Central Asian state.
    Visa-free entry to the territory of Kyrgyzstan is granted for the nationals of the Russia, the CIS countries and a number of citizens of European and other foreign countries.
    The details on Kyrgyz visa, rules of entry and stay on the territory of Kyrgyzstan you can find here.
    To enter the territory of Kyrgyzstan the foreign national must have a foreign passport valid for not less than 6 months following the termination date of the tour.
    It is also important that before their trip to Kyrgyzstan foreign nationals arrange travel medical insurance with coverage of up to $10,000-15,000.

Photo of the tour:

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Video of tours to Kyrgyzstan:

Сharms of Kyrgyzstan’s nature
Сharms of Kyrgyzstan’s
nature
Riding motorbikes through KyrgyzstanRiding motorbikes
through Kyrgyzstan
RideThePlanet: Kyrgyzstan WhitewaterRideThePlanet:
Kyrgyzstan Whitewater
In an off-road vehicle across Kyrgyzstan
In an off-road vehicle across Kyrgyzstan

View all videos »»

Video: Travel in the mountains. Trekking to Lake Sary Chelek
(Western Tien Shan, Kyrgyzstan), June 2015

 

Our company organised a hike (informative walking tour) to high-altitude Lake Sary Chelek for 11 representatives of different tourism agencies from Brazil, Spain, Great Britain, Chile and Russia, who, together with our united team, had a nice time of it in the country of turquoise lakes, deep gorges and picturesque mountain passes, away from the civilization, in the very heart of the Sary Chelek Nature Reserve.

The expedition participants enjoyed the beauty of primeval nature, admired the simplicity of the local people’s life, participated in various master classes and partook of oriental food prepared by our professional cooks, while our team ensured a stable functioning of the camps.

Simple but filled with fairytale landscapes and bright impressions, a mountain tour like this is the best version of a team building event! Activities in the mountains tend to reveal a person’s potential completely, while difficulties and joys that people experience together make them naturally closer!

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