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Trek through the gorges of the Turkestan Range to the heart of the Pamir‐Alay mountain system and the foot of the towering Ak‐Suu peak. This adventure journeys through the picturesque Turkestan Range, a region often referred to as the Asian Patagonia due to the stunning sheer rock formations and the sense of true wilderness. Marvel at crystal clear glacier fed streams and lakes, lush fir tree forests and alpine meadows with herds of grazing yaks, surrounded by sheer rock walls and no civilization in sight. Take mountain trails along which nature abounds and enjoy panoramic views of the canyons crowned by snow‐capped peaks. Trek to the foot of peak Piramidalnyi, the highest point of the Turkestan Range at 5,509 and peak Ak‐Suu which soars up to 5,355m. Your main luggage will be carried by pack mule and each evening your camp will be pre‐prepared and well‐earned freshly cooked meals served. This is a pure and remote trekking adventure complete with memories to last a lifetime.
Non-exclusive trips:
On selected departures, this trip is not exclusive to Rogue Adventures, and you will be joining a group of 2 – 8 adventurers from around the world.
Day 1 ARRIVE BISHKEK, THE CAPITAL OF KYRGYZSTAN
Day 2 FLIGHT TO OSH, TRANSFER TO UZGURUSH VILLAGE (1,450M)
Day 3 TREK THE BULDZHUMA PASS (2,894M)
Day 4 TREK THE DZHALGYCHY PASS (3,774M)
Day 5 TREK TO ORTO CHASHMA GORGE (2,800M)
Day 6 TREK THE KARA-SUU PASS (2,800M)
Day 7 TREK TO THE FOOT OF ASAN USAN & PEAK PIRAMIDALNI (5,509M)
Day 8 TREK OVER KARA SUU (3,760M) & KOSH MOINOK (3,260M)
Day 9 TREK THE AK-TUBEK PASS (3,600M)
Day 10 TREK THE AK TUBEK PASS (4,390M)
Day 11 TREK TO BASE OF PEAK AK-SUU (5,355M)
Day 12 TREK TO UZGURUSH VILLAGE (1,450M)
Day 13 DRIVE TO OSH, FLY TO BISHKEK (950M)
Day 14 TRIP CONCLUDES IN BISHKEK
13 breakfasts, 12 lunches and 13 dinners
Comfortable hotels on twin share basis
Airport transfers on day 1 and day 14
Group equipment porterage on trek and porterage of 15kg of personal gear experienced local guide
Group camping equipment
Fully serviced wilderness camping private transport throughout medical kit
Return flight Bishkek/Osh
Sleeping bags
International airfares
Visas
Travel Insurance (compulsory)
Tips and gratuities
Meals and beverages not indicated in the program
Aerated and alcoholic drinks
Items of a personal nature such as laundry, phone calls, alcohol etc.
At any stage of a moderate trek you can expect long steep climbs and descents and a wide range of weather conditions. An example of an average day on moderate trek could include several ascents and descents of 500 metres or more, level ground is rare in the mountains. To prepare for a moderate trek you should begin training at least three months before your departure. As a benchmark, an hour of aerobic exercise three times per week would be considered a minimum requirement.
The best preparation is bushwalking involving relatively steep ascents and descents. If you can manage a couple of valley floor to ridgeline ascents per bushwalk, albeit with stops along the way, you know you can cope with a moderately graded trek. Speed is not important, stamina, confidence and rhythm are.
By its very nature adventure travel involves an element of the unexpected. In remote and developing countries do not expect standards you are used to at home. Remote areas are sometimes unpredictable and itineraries may be altered. To get the most out of your adventure it is important that you are flexible, positive and eager to take on all the challenges that arise. If you are uncertain about your suitability for this trip we recommend that you speak with your consultant or travel agent.
Upon arrival into Bishkek you will be met at the international airport and transferred to the group hotel to check‐in and have some time to relax and refresh. After lunch we’ll venture out to enjoy a short sightseeing tour of the city. Bishkek is situated at an elevation of around 2,600 ft in the foothills of the Kyrgyz Ala‐Too range, part of the Tian Shan range. These mountains soar up to 15,928ft, providing a dramatic backdrop to the city. Extending from the city’s north is a verdant steppe grassland which reaches into neighboring Kazakhstan. Bishkek is a city of open boulevards and grand marble‐lined public buildings combined with towering Soviet‐era apartments overlooking central courtyards.
The carefully planned, grid patterned streets are mostly flanked on both sides by canals which serve to irrigate the endless rows of trees which provide welcome shade to residents and travellers from the summer sun. Time permitting; we will visit the Manas Monument, the State History Museum, Ala Too Square to witness the changing of the Guard, the Independence Monument, the Old Square with Parliament House and Victory Sqaure. In the evening we will enjoy a group welcome meal.
Overnight: Asia Mountains Hotel or similar (950m).
Driving distance: 35km/ 40 min.
This morning we have an early transfer to the airport for our 07:35 flight to Osh. Upon arrival we transfer to Uzgurush village, a quiet rural village nestled in the foothills, the perfect place to prepare for our trek ahead. Accommodation tonight will be with a Kyrgyz host family in their humble home.
Please note: there is no for single occupancy option on this night.
Overnight: Local homestay (1,450m).
Driving distance: 340km/ 8‐9 hours, +500m
The first trekking day starts with views of wild pistachio trees and walnut orchards. A wild trail stretches along the Buldzhuma River and ascends up the pass with the same name, Buldzhuma (2894m). From the pass you can enjoy the wonderful views of the nearby gorges and Uponym pass in the west. After a rest stop to marvel the spectacular views, we start descending into the valley of the Ak‐Tash River where the Ak‐Tash tented camp lies hidden and sheltered among the bushes of the green meadows.
Overnight: Ak‐Tash tented camp with sauna tent (2700 m).
Trekking distance: 15 km/ 7‐8 hrs/ +1250 m.
Today we will trek over two passes, Kara Suu (3,760m) and Kosh Moinok (3,260m). It will be a long day but rewarding with views over the stunning ranges of sheer valleys and soaring peaks before reaching the welcome sight of our evening’s accommodation back at the Orto Chashma tent camp where we camped on day five.
Overnight: Orto Chashma tented camp (2,800m).
Trekking distance: 16 km/ 8hrs/ +960m/ –960m.
Our day begins with a trek up along the grass slopes between the Dzhalgychy and Kashka‐Suu Gorges. From the summit, we can gaze upon the panoramic views of Orto Chashma Gorge and the Turo pass (4,525m). From here we make our descent down into Kashka‐Suu Gorge then follow the river, trekking until we reach the confluence with Orto Chashma Gorge.
Overnight: Orto Chashma tented Camp (2,800m)
Trekking distance: 7km/ 3‐4 hrs/ +500m/ –700m
From our camp, we make our way along a good trail until the start of our ascent
to Kosh Moinok pass (3260m). The winding trail passes through juniper forests, passed a cool, fresh spring and finishes at the saddle of Kara Suu pass (3,760m). The summit affords us spectacular views of the sea of pointed snow‐capped rocky crags and peaks which make up the Turkestan Range. We are faced by a towering fortress like row of north‐western facing peaks including Kotin (4,521m) and Kreshenie Rusi (4,507m).
Overnight: Kara‐Suu tented camp (2,800m)
Trekking distance: 16 km/ 7‐8 hrs/ +960 m/ –960m.
Today we embark on a loop trek of the Kara Suu Gorge and up to the foot of Peak Piramidalnyi (5,509 m), Kyrkchilta (4,507m), Asan and Usen (4,378m). Local legend has it that, “in ancient times an old man who lived in the mountains had twin sons, named Asan and Usen. He raised them as warriors and was proud the day they left home to join the military. However, they were sent to war and neither returned. The old man stricken with grief raised his arms to the sky and cried, “Oh, Allah, you gave their lives, you then took them away. Return my sons to me and take my life instead” Allah heard his prayer and the ground cracked open. Towering peaks rose toward the sky.”
It is believed by locals that the two bastions, standing alongside one another at the beginning of Karavshin River are the twin sons Asan (4,230m) and Usen (4,378m). In the background is the snowy white peak of Piramidalnyi (5,509m), believed to the old man watching over his sons for eternity.
Overnight: Kara Suu tented camp (2,800m).
Trekking distance: 9km/ 5‐7hrs/ +300m/ –300m.
Today we will trek over two passes, Kara Suu (3,760m) and Kosh Moinok (3,260m). It will be a long day but rewarding with views over the stunning ranges of sheer valleys and soaring peaks before reaching the welcome sight of our evening’s accommodation back at the Orto Chashma tent camp where we camped on day five.
Overnight: Orto Chashma tented camp (2,800m).
Trekking distance: 16 km/ 8hrs/ +960m/ –960m.
Today we start with a moderate ascent following the course of the Orto Chashma River until we reach the the confluence with the Ak‐Tubek Gorge. Here we cross both rivers by bridge and continue to trek this time along the Ak‐Tubek River. Leaving the river behind we ascend up to the foot of the Ak Tubek pass and the site of our evening’s camp near the white rock.
Overnight: Ak‐Tubek tented camp (3,600m).
Trekking distance: 7km/ 3‐4hrs/ +800m.
Today we face a tough ascent ascent up and over the Ak Tubek pass (4,390m). Despite being the toughest climb of the entire trek, we are rewarded at the summit by a truly majestic panorama over the Iskander peak and Orto Chashma River valley region. Following the descent we’ll reach our camp located at the beginning of the green zone at Ak‐Suu River. Along today’s route you will witness the sheer rock faces of Iskander (5,120m), Petrogradez (5,165m), Admiralteez (5,090m), Aksu (5,355 m), A. Block (5,229 m) and Aktubek (5,125 m) peaks. Many refer to this region as the Asia Patagonia and it is easy to see why the area has received this name.
Overnight: Ak‐Suu tented camp (2,800m).
Trekking distance: 11km/ 5‐6hrs/ +800m/ –140 m.
Today’s trail leads us through juniper forests before kicking up a steep moraine before we reach the remaining glacier. This glacier leads us up into the very heart of the Pamir‐Alay and to the impressive peak of Ak‐Suu (5,355 m). This pyramid‐like snow‐capped peak boasts a near vertical slab wall, almost 2km high on the northern slope. The grandiose peak is surrounded by peaks as the two‐headed Iskander and Admiralteez, Petrogradez and A. Block. We’ll make our way back down to our camp from the night before.
Overnight: Ak‐Suu tented camp (2,800 m).
Trek: 14km/ 5‐7hrs/ +600m/ –600m.
Today we begin with a descent through forests following the course of the Ak‐Mechet River with great views of Iskander Peak along the route. Later we trek through a picturesque verdant gorge until we return back to civilisation and the warm and welcoming host family in Uzgurush village.
Please note: there is no for single occupancy option on this night.
Overnight: Local homestay (1,450m).
Trekking distance: 16km/ 6hrs/ –1350m.
This morning we bid our farewells to the host family and the mountains and drive to Batken and then on to Osh. We’ll enjoy a final group meal together before transferring to Osh Airport for our evening flight back to to Bishkek. Upon arrival in Bishkek, we transfer to the group hotel.
Overnight: Asia Mountains Hotel or similar (950m).
Driving distance: 340km/ 7‐8hrs/ –500m.
After breakfast today you will be provided with a transfer from the hotel to the airport, where the trip concludes. Hotel check‐out is 12:00. Luggage storage is available at the hotel if your flight is not departing until later in the day.
Driving distance: 40km/ 1hr.
Iran to Tbilisi via Armenia
Central Asia Journey
In the Footsteps of Alexander the Great
Over 90% of Kyrgyzstan is dominated by massive, rugged mountain ranges, including the Alai, Kirghiz and Tien Shan, and their associated valleys and basins. Large areas of those mountain regions are covered by glaciers.A few flat areas (lower valleys) are found in the north and far southwest, but almost 35% of the land is higher than 9,842 ft. (3,000 m) above sea level.
Kyrgyzstan’s highest point is Jengish Chokusu which peaks at 24,406 ft. (7,439 m). Numerous rivers flow from the upper reaches of the mountains; the most significant ones include the Al-Say, Chu, Kara Daryya and Naryn. Issyk-Kul is the world’s second largest alpine lake.
The lack of moderating bodies of water make Kazakhstan’s climate extremely continental and very dry. Seasonal temperatures are polarised and vary depending on the region. The best time to visit Kazakhstan is in spring (April to June) or autumn (September to October) when temperatures are mild. In spring the desert comes into flower and autumn is harvest time, where market tables are overwhelmed with freshly picked fruit.
Kyrgyzstan’s climate is extremely diverse due largely to its mountainous landscape. Most of the country is temperate with little rainfall and lots of sunshine, but the south‐western Ferghana Valley area is subtropical with very hot summers. Generally the lowlands average 21‐24°F (‐6°C to ‐4°C) in January and 61‐75°F (16‐24°C) in July, while the highland mountainous areas range from 46‐54°F (8‐12°C) in summer and 7°F to ‐4°F (‐14°C to ‐20°C) in winter. Snowfall in winter is heavy.
Provided we are advised in advance of your departure we are able to cater for vegetarian diets and can assist with medically recommended diets (allergies and intolerances). Please ensure you discuss your requirements with us well in advance (at least 1 month prior to your trip) to determine whether we can cater to such dietary requirements on your chosen adventure. Please note that options are likely to be limited in very remote locations or alternatives may be more expensive or unavailable. There may be times when those with special requirements may need to provide their own food. We are unable to guarantee a peanut‐free or allergen‐free trip, and therefore, we strongly encourage that travelers with life‐threatening or severe allergies take all necessary medical precautions to prepare for the possibility of exposure. Passengers must travel with all necessary medications for food allergies and be capable of self‐administering these medications.
In Bishkek you will be accommodated in 3 to 4 star, twin share properties that are centrally located, atmospheric and reliable. While trekking enjoy our fully supported camping in quality two person tents erected in scenic wilderness. A basic local homestay with a Kyrgyz family in Uzgurush village offers a fantastic cultural experience.
50l kit bags are provided for your gear during the trek. The maximum weight limit for each guest is 15kg and these are carried by pack mules.
In your daypack you will need to carry extra warm clothing (depending on the altitude, location and weather), a rainjacket, water bottle, camera gear, valuables and personal items such as sunscreen, lip‐eze etc. Porters and mules carry all group gear and your trek pack.
Specialist gear required include walking boots and day pack (a comprehensive gear list is provided in the pre‐departure information provided on booking).
During the course of your trip, we will use a variety of vehicles, all of which are fit for purpose and the conditions encountered. It should be noted that laws governing transportation safety may differ from those in your home country and whilst wherever possible, vehicles with seatbelts are provided, on occasion some vehicles may not have seat belts fitted.
UK, AU, NZ, CA and US passport holders do not need to have a visa when visiting Kyrgyzstan for up to 60 days. The traveller must:
Hold a biometric passport valid at least six months on entry with two blank visa pages Hold proof of sufficient funds
Hold proof of onward/return airline tickets
Hold documents showing proof of purpose of trip
Hold all documents required for the next destination
All other nationalities, please check with your consulate or embassy for current visa requirement information. Allow up to 6 weeks prior to trip departure.
Please bear in mind that visas may be required for countries you are visiting en route or transiting through on the way to your destination. It is important that you check the requirements of all countries you will visit. Visa costs and requirements do change regularly so we suggest you check with your travel agent or Rogue Adventures reservations consultant. It is your responsibility to obtain all necessary visas.
The adventures featured in our brochures, and on our website, are just a starting point for many of our private group travelers. Working closely with our Groups Department we can organise custom designed itineraries for groups of friends, clubs, charity’s, schools or even work colleagues. Our team will assist you with all aspects of your private group adventure from itinerary design to group flights. Contact our team today.