Aperçu

Points forts

• Weather and Climate
• The Pamir is one of the highest and most remote mountain regions in the world, with elevations up to 7,500 meters. Therefore, we must prepare for extreme climatic conditions. In Dushanbe and Osh, as well as in the lower-lying parts of the Pamirs, daytime temperatures can reach up to 35° C. On the Pamir Plateau and in the Pik Lenin yurt camp, it can also be quite cold at night in summer, with temperatures dropping below freezing.
• Single room surcharge
• The single room surcharge applies to overnight stays in hotels in Dushanbe and Bishkek, as well as the guesthouse in Kalai-Kumb. In the guesthouses in Savnob, Karakul, and Sary Tash, we cannot guarantee single rooms. In the yurts at Pik Lenin, we are accommodated in groups of a maximum of 5 people per yurt. The yurts are not available for single use. During the camping nights, the single use of a two-person tent is included in the travel price.
• Travel itinerary and route
• The Pamir is poorly developed in terms of infrastructure, and the roads are often in a desolate state. Due to weather conditions, it may happen that we cannot pass the roads. Therefore, there may be changes in the program schedule. The program outlined above represents the optimal variant. Our travel dates are based on the usually favorable weather conditions at that time.
• Entry and Documents
• For entry into Tajikistan and Kyrgyzstan, citizens from Germany, Austria, Switzerland, and Italy need a passport that is valid for at least six months, proof of return or onward travel documents (tickets), and no visa for a stay of up to a maximum of 30 or 60 days. Citizens of other countries are advised to inquire at their respective representations.
• For a stay of more than three days in Tajikistan, registration is required. A GBAO special permit is needed for travel to the Pamirs. We will take care of both documents. They are included in the travel price.
• Please check the current travel and safety advisories as well as the entry requirements online. German citizens can find information at the Federal Foreign Office at www.auswaertiges-amt.de, Austrian citizens at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs at www.aussenministerium.at, and Swiss citizens at the Federal Department of Foreign Affairs at www.eda.admin.ch.
• Vaccinations and Health Prevention
• There are no mandatory vaccinations for entry into Tajikistan and Kyrgyzstan. However, it is important that your standard vaccinations against tetanus, diphtheria, and polio are up to date. Additionally, we recommend considering vaccinations against hepatitis A. For longer stays or certain activities, vaccinations against hepatitis B and rabies may also be advisable. It is best to discuss this with your doctor or a tropical medicine specialist. Center for Travel Medicine: www.crm.de; Robert Koch Institute: www.rki.de These sites do not replace a doctor's visit. Allow enough time and ideally contact your doctor several months before the trip to create a vaccination plan.
• Pack a personal travel pharmacy tailored to your needs. It is sensible to include medications for diarrhea, headaches, and colds, as well as bandages and plasters. We carry a general emergency pharmacy and a well-equipped first aid kit on the tour. However, these are only intended for real emergencies and should not replace personal preparation.
• If you have any chronic health issues, you should definitely consult your family doctor before the trip. Due to the altitude in the Pamirs and the associated low oxygen levels in the air, as well as a significant temperature difference between day and night (about 20 °C), your body is under much greater strain than normal. Especially for cardiovascular problems or asthma, we strongly recommend discussing these issues with your family doctor.

Itinéraire

Jour 01: Arrival in Dushanbe – City Tour – Qalai Khumb

Upon arrival at Dushanbe International Airport, you are met by your guide and transferred to the city. Depending on arrival time, enjoy a brief orientation tour of the capital. Highlights may include Rudaki Park, the National Flagpole, and a panoramic city drive showcasing modern Dushanbe. Optional visits to the National Museum, Museum of Antiquities, or Mehrgon Central Market provide insight into Tajik history and daily life.After lunch, depart Dushanbe and travel south toward the Pamirs. En route, stop at the impressive Nurek Reservoir—one of the largest artificial lakes in Central Asia—before continuing through the city of Kulob. The scenery gradually becomes more dramatic as the road follows the Panj River, which forms the natural border with Afghanistan. Arrival in Qalai Khumb in the late afternoon. Dinner and overnight.

• Driving: 360.00 km
• Temps de route: 5-6 hours
• Hiking distance: 0.00 km
• Nuit: Qalai Khumb (Guesthouse/Homestay)
• Altitude: Dushanbe ~800 m | Qalai Khumb ~1,300 m
• État des routes: Asphalt

Jour 02: : Qalai Khumb – Bartang Valley – Hike to Jizew

After breakfast, drive toward the remote Bartang Valley, one of the wildest and least accessible regions of the Pamirs. The route passes through deep gorges, narrow valleys, and isolated settlements.At the road’s end, continue on foot. A scenic hike of approximately 7 km ascends gradually through alpine landscapes, crossing small streams and passing mountain lakes. The steady ascent offers outstanding views and a rewarding approach to Jizew Village. Arrival by late afternoon. Dinner and overnight in a local homestay, experiencing traditional Pamiri hospitality.

• Driving: 250.00 km
• Temps de route: 5-6
• Hiking distance: 7.00 km
• Nuit: Jizew Village (Homestay)
• Altitude: Start ~2,100 m | Jizew ~2,600 m
• Point le plus haut: 2600
• État des routes: Partly paved, partly rough

Jour 03: Jizew – Khorog

In the morning, hike back along the same trail to the main road, where your vehicle awaits. Continue driving to Khorog, the administrative and cultural center of Gorno-Badakhshan.Situated at the confluence of rivers and surrounded by mountains, Khorog has a relaxed atmosphere. Visit the Khorog Botanical Garden—one of the highest-altitude botanical gardens in the world—offering panoramic views of the surrounding valleys. Time permitting, stroll through the central park and local bazaar. Overnight in Khorog.

• Driving: 90.00 km
• Temps de route: 1-2 hours
• Hiking distance: 7.00 km
• Nuit: Khorog (Hotel or Guesthouse)
• Altitude: 2200
• État des routes: Mixed

Jour 04: Khorog – Wakhan Valley – Yamchun

Today’s journey follows the historic Wakhan Valley, a narrow corridor that once connected Central Asia with South Asia. Across the Panj River, the snow-covered peaks of the Hindu Kush dominate the Afghan skyline.Stops include the Bibi Fatima Hot Springs (bathing optional) and the ancient Kah-Kaha Fortress, dating back to the 3rd century. On Saturdays, it may be possible to visit a small cross-border market where Afghan traders sell local goods. The day concludes with a visit to the impressive Yamchun Fortress, dramatically perched above the valley. Overnight in Yamchun

• Driving: 240.00 km
• Temps de route: 5-9hours
• Hiking distance: 0.00 km
• Nuit: Yamchun Village (Guesthouse)
• Altitude: 2900
• État des routes: Mostly unpaved

Jour 05: Yamchun – Langar – Khargush Pass – Bulunkul

Depart Wakhan Valley and ascend toward the Eastern Pamir Plateau. Visit Yamg Village, home to a traditional solar calendar and local museum, and Langar, known for its Buddhist stupa, ancient petroglyphs, and Silk Road caravanserai ruins.Cross the spectacular Khargush Pass before descending to Bulunkul, one of the highest and coldest permanently inhabited villages in Tajikistan. Overnight in a local guesthouse.

• Driving: 250.00 km
• Temps de route: 5 hours
• Hiking distance: 0.00 km
• Nuit: Bulunkul (Guesthouse)
• Altitude: 3700
• Point le plus haut: 4300
• État des routes: Rough / unpaved

Jour 06: Bulunkul – Murghab – Karakul Lake

In the morning, enjoy a short walk near Bulunkul Lake, weather permitting. Continue toward Murghab, stopping at alpine lakes and panoramic viewpoints. Near Murghab, visit the abandoned Shorbuluq Observatory with distant views toward the Muztagata range in China.After lunch in Murghab, cross the Ak-Baital Pass—the highest motorable pass in Tajikistan. By late afternoon, arrive at the stunning Karakul Lake, surrounded by towering peaks. Dinner and overnight near the lake.

• Driving: 310.00 km
• Temps de route: approx. 6 hours
• Hiking distance: 0.00 km
• Nuit: Karakul Lake area (Homestay)
• Altitude: 4100
• Point le plus haut: 4500
• État des routes: Rough / unpaved

Jour 07: Karakul Lake – Savnob (Bartang Valley)

Today marks your entry into the remote Bartang Valley. Descend gradually from the Eastern Pamirs, following a narrow river through dramatically changing landscapes. En route, visit seasonal shepherd camps and observe traditional methods of producing yogurt, butter, and cheese.By late afternoon, arrive in the village of Savnob. In the evening, visit the historic Savnob Fortress (18th–19th century) and explore a nearby cave associated with local legends. Dinner and overnight in a traditional homestay

• Driving: 230.00 km
• Temps de route: 5-6 hours
• Hiking distance: 0.00 km
• Nuit: Savnob (Homestay)
• Altitude: 2600
• Point le plus haut: 4100
• État des routes: Rough

Jour 08: Savnob – Roshorv – Bardara

Drive toward Roshorv, the largest village in the upper Bartang region. If conditions and energy permit, enjoy a short hike to a nearby viewpoint with panoramic views of Peak Lapnazar (5,999 m) and the surrounding ranges, including Rushan Range and distant Peak Revolution.Continue to Bardara village. In the evening, explore local highlights, including the traditional natural refrigerator used for year-round food storage and a sacred shrine accompanied by local stories and folklore. Overnight in Bardara

• Driving: 90.00 km
• Temps de route: 2-3 hours
• Hiking distance: 0.00 km
• Nuit: Bardara (Homestay)
• Altitude: 2800
• État des routes: Rough

Jour 09: Bardara – Qalai Khumb

Continue driving down the lower Bartang Valley, following the Bartang River—one of the main tributaries of the Panj River. This exceptionally remote and scenic section features dramatic cliffs, fertile terraces, and traditional villages where local lifestyles remain largely unchanged.Arrive in Qalai Khumb by late afternoon. Dinner and overnight.

• Driving: 370.00 km
• Temps de route: 6 hours
• Hiking distance: 0.00 km
• Nuit: Qalai Khumb (Homestay
• État des routes: Rough

Jour 10: Qalai Khumb – Dushanbe via Khoburubot Pass

After breakfast, depart Qalai Khumb and travel back to Dushanbe via the scenic Khoburubot Pass. The route offers final views of deep valleys, mountain rivers, and remote settlements before gradually descending toward the lowlands.Arrival in Dushanbe in the late afternoon. Transfer to your hotel or hostel. End of services

• Driving: 290.00 km
• Temps de route: 5-6
• Hiking distance: 0.00 km
• Nuit: Dushanbe (Hotel or Hostel)
• Altitude: 800
• État des routes: Mostly rough, partly paved