We encourage you to book as early as possible, especially for travel in the peak season (July-August). Around 3-6 months in advance is a good timeframe for summer tours to ensure availability of your preferred dates and to allow time for any special arrangements like border permits which need a few weeks. If you plan...
Archives: FAQs
FAQ
How do I book a tour with Visit Alay?
Booking a tour with us is easy. You can contact us directly through our website’s “Book Your Trip” form, via email, or even WhatsApp/phone. Let us know which tour or what kind of experience you’re interested in, your preferred dates, and the number of people. Our team (we’re based in Osh and Bishkek, Kygyzstan) will...
FAQ
Can I do the Pamir Highway in the opposite direction (Dushanbe to Osh)?
Definitely. The Pamir Highway is stunning in both directions, and we offer tours going either way. You can start in Dushanbe, Tajikistan and end in Osh, Kyrgyzstan, or vice versa. Logistically, it’s the same route, just reversed. Some travelers prefer starting in Dushanbe because it lets you gain altitude more gradually (Dushanbe is at ~700...
FAQ
Do you offer group departures for Pamir Highway tours?
Yes, we organize group tours for the Pamir Highway which solo travelers or small parties can join. Joining a group tour is a great way to share costs of traveling along the Pamir Highway since the vehicle and driver costs are split between the group. It’s also a great way to meet other adventurous travelers...
FAQ
What are some must-see highlights along the Pamir Highway?
Some of the must-see highlights and activities along the Pamir Highway include the following. Karakul Lake (Tajikistan): A breathtaking alpine lake at 3,960 m formed by a meteor impact, with a backdrop of snow-capped peaks. Sunrise here is unforgettable. Ak-Baital Pass: The highest pass on the highway (4,655 m). Standing at this roof-of-the-world point is...
FAQ
Is it safe to travel the Pamir Highway?
We are often asked the question: Is it really safe to travel along the Pamir Highway given its proximity to Afghanistan and remote location? We understand the concerns given its location, but traveling the Pamir Highway with an experienced operator is generally very safe. The region’s remoteness means you won’t encounter much crime as the...
FAQ
What will the food be like on a Pamir Highway trip?
Food along the Pamir Highway will be simple, hearty, and shaped by the local Pamiri and Kyrgyz cuisine. Expect a lot of home-cooked meals at the homestays as they usually offer breakfast and dinner. A typical day’s eating might be: Breakfast: Often this is tea, bread with butter/jam or porridge. It’s basic fuel to start...
FAQ
What is accommodation like along the Pamir Highway? Where will we stay?
Accommodation on the Pamir Highway is a highlight and experience in itself as you’ll stay in authentic local guesthouses and homestays in remote towns and villages along the way. These accommodations usually have basic services (e.g., toilets might be outside) and are in a local family home, but they are clean and comfortable. They also...
FAQ
What are the roads and driving conditions like on the Pamir Highway?
In a word: adventurous. The Pamir Highway or M41 Highway and its side roads are some of the roughest “highways” you’ll encounter. While portions of the Pamir Highway near major towns are paved, much of the route is unpaved or broken asphalt, with potholes, gravel, and occasional stream crossings. The terrain is mountainous, so expect...
FAQ
Do I need a visa or special permits for the Pamir Highway tour?
Yes, traveling the Pamir Highway involves crossing from Kyrgyzstan into Tajikistan (or vice versa) so you’ll need to have the appropriate visas and permits for both countries. Visa requirements vary depending on the traveler’s nationality, the length of stay, and the purpose of the visit. It is important to research visa requirements well in advance...