The Pamir-Alay Mountains have some high mountain passes (over 4,300 meters) and trails, so it’s important to be take precautions against altitude sickness, especially if you don’t have prior experience trekking or hiking at altitude. Some of our clients come directly without doing any high altitude adaptation. They just start the trek one day after...
Archives: FAQs
FAQ
Is there clean drinking water available during treks in the Alay Mountains?
There are clean mountain springs throughout the Alay Mountains and specifically along the Best of Alay Mountains hiking trail. We can refill water bottles from these springs. Yurt stays will provide boiled water. To be on the safe side, bring purification fileter, drops or powder to clean river or spring waters. We also recommend refillable...
FAQ
What type of food is served when trekking or hiking in the Alay Mountains?
One of the benefits of trekking and hiking in the Alay Mountains is that you will have access to delicious homemade Kyrgyz dishes at the different family-run accommodations. On our trekking tours, including the Best of Alay Mountains Trek, most of the evening meals are home-cooked and provided by the yurt camp, homestay or guesthouse....
FAQ
What accommodation is available in the Alay Mountains?
The Alay Mountains include several types of accommodation: homestays or guest houses, yurt stays and camping (tents). These different accommodation options provide visitors with a comfortable and authentic experience in this remote mountain region of southern Kyrgyzstan. We at Visit Alay work directly with local families to provide accommodation on all of our trekking and...
FAQ
What should I pack for a hike or trek in Alay Mountains?
Our recommended packing list for the Best of Alay Mountains Trek includes the following: Warm clothes and layers as it gets warm during the day, but it can go below freezing at night and when it rains. This means having layers like fleece and light jackets during the day, as well as a down jacket...
FAQ
What is the best time to visit the Alay Mountains for trekking?
The best time for hiking and trekking in the Alay or Alai Mountains in southern Kyrgyzstan is from July to mid-September. The temperature goes from +5 to 15 degrees Celsius at night and up to mid-20s Celsius during the daytime during the summer season. The temperatures vary during the day depending upon the altitude, wind...
FAQ
What should I pack for a trip to the Pamir Highway?
Travelers to the Pamir Highway should pack layers for a variety of weather conditions as temperatures can vary greatly depending on the time of day and altitude. It can get quite warm during the daytime, but drop down at night as these are high desert environments. Packing essentials include: warm clothing: think layers since temperatures...
FAQ
What is included in the price of a Pamir Highway Tour?
The price of our Pamir Highway tours includes an English-speaking driver/guide, transportation (4×4 vehicle and fuel), the driver’s accommodation and meals, and included activities (e.g., day hikes). The cost of accommodation, meals and entry tickets for attractions is not included in the price of our Pamir Highway Tours. You can estimate around $20-$30/person per day...
FAQ
Are there any cultural considerations to keep in mind when trekking and hiking in Kyrgyzstan?
Yes, there are a few cultural considerations to keep in mind when hiking and trekking in Kyrgyzstan in order to be respectful of local people, culture and traditions. For example, be sure to remove shoes before entering a yurt or a home. Additionally, always ask for permission before taking photographs of people, their animals and...
FAQ
What is the cost of guided trekking tours in Kyrgyzstan?
The cost of guided trekking tours in Kyrgyzstan varies depending on the duration, route, services included, and quality of guide. It usually ranges between $70 – $175/day, depending upon the group size and transfers needed. All of our guided treks and hikes include an experienced English-speaking guide, transportation, accommodation, meals, and luggage transfer (on horses)....