Kyrgyzstan & Uzbekistan | travelworldculture

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DATES AND PRICING

The TWC Kyrgyzstan and Uzbekistan dates are July 20-August 1, 2026.
- Travelers may need to depart their home airport on July 18th or 19th in order to arrive on the 20th.
The cost of this trip package is $4,189, but the first 8 spots will get an automatic discount of $200, making their package cost $3,989.
- Only a deposit of $299 is needed to sign up. The rest can be paid in full or via a monthly payment plan from December to May. Repeat travelers, don't forget that you get an additional discount!
This trip will become available to book on November 10th at 7:30 PM Central. The first 8 spots will get an automatic early-bird discount, so set an alarm!

WHAT'S INCLUDED

12 nights in accommodations
- 5 nights are in double-occupancy private hotel rooms with ensuite bathrooms. There will be 2 travelers from the TWC group per room.
- 2 nights are in double-occupancy private guesthouse rooms with ensuite bathrooms. There will be 2 travelers from the TWC group per room.
- 1 night is in double or triple occupancy private guesthouse rooms with shared bathrooms. There will be 2 to 3 travelers from the TWC group per room.
- 4 nights are in yurt camps with shared toilets. Rooming in the yurts will range from 4 to 8 people per yurt. There will only be TWC travelers in each yurt, and each traveler will have their own mat and pillow. Please note that the yurt camp accommodations are extremely basic. All yurts in the Alay Range are very similar. The yurts typically are heated by stoves. Bathrooms are separate from the rooms, not private, and are a mix of western toilets and pit toilets. Sinks are available, but shower access will be limited.
  - TWC is committed to community tourism, so you can be assured that your trip will benefit local communities and families in the Pamir-Alay Mountains.
- Single occupancy upgrades will only be available for 4 nights of the trip and will be limited.
~30 meals
- Both a welcome and farewell dinner will be included.
- On hiking days, breakfast, lunch, and dinner are included.
  - Additionally, warm drinks, drinking water, snacks, and fruit will also be included on the hiking days.
- Certain dietary restrictions and allergies can be accommodated for, but please note that alternative options at the yurt camps are somewhat limited. Gluten free options and vegetarian options are available, for example, but may not avoid cross-contamination. Please reach out to jessica@travelwc.com to discuss in detail.
Ground transportation by private van from Osh to the start of the trek, the end of the trek back to Osh, from Osh to the Fergana Valley, and from the Fergana Valley to Tashkent
Ground transportation (by train and private van) from Tashkent to Samarkand
Airport transfer service on arrival in Osh and departure in Samarkand during the specific arrival and departure periods specified by TWC on the first and last day of the trip
Several fun activities:
- 5 days of trekking (4 by hiking, 1 by horseback) in the Alay Mountains, including entry fees, local professional hiking guides, and luggage service
- 1 horseback riding excursion
- Sightseeing tour in the Fergana Valley to a silk factory, traditional ceramics workshop, and Palace of Khudáyár Khán
- Sightseeing tour in Samarkand to Register Square, Shah-i-Zinda, and a traditional bakery to see the process of making the world-famous Samarkand non
A TWC community leader
- Jess and Gavin will be on this trip!
Local hiking guides and horsemen on hiking days
Luggage service for your bag on all hiking days
- Each hiker can have up to 33 pounds (15kg) carried by horse for the 5-day trek.
All required hiking and border permits
Detailed packing and preparation lists will be provided, and travelers will have the option to rent a sleeping bag for the trek.
Account to manage your booking and access to a private Facebook group for the trip
- Each TWC Traveler will be given access to their account where they will find a trip-specific packing list, a payment section to manage and make payments, options to contact their trip consultants with any questions, a link to a private Facebook group, and more preparation information.

See a full FAQ at the bottom of this page.

1. Note that your international flights to Osh and from Samarkand are not included. However, we have free information on how to find the best flights, and we work with travelers to help find available deals.

2. Each traveler will be responsible for paying for their e-visa in advance of arriving in Uzbekistan. The cost of the single-entry tourist visa is 20 USD. This requirement may be dropped in 2026, and travelers will be kept up to date on entry requirements. No visa is needed for Kyrgyzstan for travelers with US passports for stays of less than 60 days. To discuss potential via requirements for travelers with other passports, please email jessica@travelwc.com.

3. There is a 3% fee for paying with a credit card. Alternatively, travelers can pay via bank transfer to avoid any processing fees.

4. Note: The activity level of this trip is high, but you do not need prior trekking experience. There are 4 days of hiking, and there will be a lot of walking involved on most other days. Travelers can choose to skip the first of the hikes, and they can request a to ride a horse for potions of the other days for an additional fee. The terrain on the hiking days is strenuous and can be steep. It is strongly recommended that those who join this trip have either hiked with TWC before or hiked on their own before, but information on how to best prepare to make the hikes as comfortable as possible will also be given. Prepared hikers are the happiest hikers.

5. All travelers should also be aware of the high altitudes of many of the destinations on this trip. Osh, the first stop of the trip, is at an elevation of 3,300ft/1,000m. From there, the group will be driven to 9,842ft/3,000m for the first night on the trekking route. The second night of the trek will be spent at 11,500ft/3500m, and the group will hike to a maximum of 13,615ft/4150m. The third night of the trek will be spent at 10,826ft/3300m, and the group will hike to a maximum of 14,127ft/4306m the next day. The fourth night of the trek will be spent at 11,811ft/3600m. The fifth night of the trek will be spent at 9,186ft/2800m. Optional excursions may be at higher altitudes. Everyone reacts to altitude differently, regardless of fitness and age, and high altitudes should be taken seriously. For details on how to best prepare in advance and what to do in the event you are affected during the trip, please consult your physician.

6. Each traveler will also have to purchase travel insurance of their choosing that fits specific requirements. This insurance starts at approximately 30 USD.

Summer 2026 is officially Stan Summer.

Although Central Asia is a region that many travelers may not be familiar with, this trip will make it obvious that Central Asia is not the middle of nowhere but actually at the center of... everything. This region was the heart of the Silk Road for thousands of years and facilitated the exchange of goods, ideas, and culture between the East and the West. Kyrgyzstan and Uzbekistan have also been at the crossroads of many different powerful empires, and this trip will take you to several sites recognized by UNESCO where rulers rose to power and invasions changed the course of history. You have to visit for yourself in order to discover the beautiful cultural tapestry of Central Asia woven in part from the Turkic, Persian, and Soviet influences on the region.

This trip through the heart of Central Asia begins in Osh, one of the oldest cities on the continent that has been a hub for caravans and travelers for centuries. Kyrgyzstan is said by many to be the second most mountainous country in the world, and this itinerary will take you through the most epic parts of the Pamir-Alay Mountain Range to experience the wild beauty of Kyrgyzstan’s mountains for six days, which includes four days of trekking and one day of horseback riding. Along the way, the group will be immersed in Kyrgyz culture, which has traditionally been nomadic, by staying in yurt camps and a guesthouse along the way. Many people in Kyrgyzstan are still semi-nomadic today, moving livestock to higher pastures in the mountains in the summer and setting up yurts for the season. The families who run each yurt camp often welcome groups with generous hospitality. At many yurt camps you'll hear music played on traditional instruments like the komuz and learn how to bake traditional bread or make felt with wool fibers. The alpine views from the trek are of massive (some over 7,000 m, almost 23,000 ft!) mountains with snow capped peaks, glaciers, green valleys, small villages, yaks, marmots, eagles, grazing cows, horses, and sheep.

After returning to Osh for a night to celebrate finishing the trek at a resort, the group will cross the border into Uzbekistan. In today’s social media age, there are few unknown travel gems left in the world, but Uzbekistan’s Fergana Valley is truly one of them. It is one of Central Asia’s most fertile regions and the center of silk, ceramic, and fruit production. The group will be based in Margilon, one of the region’s oldest cities, where grapevines line the quiet streets. Our guesthouse is decorated with traditional textiles, as it is owned by a fifth-generation weaver who has collaborated with fashion designers. While exploring the Fergana Valley, we will visit a silk factory, a vibrant ceramic workshop, and the grand Palace of Khudáyár Khán. At a time when travel can feel more scripted than spontaneous, the Fergana Valley stands apart, honest, unforgettable, and deeply human.

The group will continue to Samarkand, once the crown jewel of the Silk Road. From the majestic madrasahs of Registan Square to the mosaic-covered domes of the Shah-i-Zinda mausoleums, we will be walking in the footsteps of traders, scholars, and conquerors who helped shape the world. From the architecture to the scent of fresh bread baking in tandoor ovens to the sounds of the bustling bazaars, Samarkand is captivating. In typical TWC fashion, we’ll be taking the time to explore the cuisine at each stop as well. On menus, you’ll find dumplings, noodle soups, grilled meats, rice dishes like pilaf or plov, yogurt, fresh fruit, and much more. Of course, there will always be tea and pastries as well… (would it be a TWC trip without many beverages and treats?) We’ll also be reminded (daily!) that bread making is an important part of life in Central Asia. This is especially true in Samarkand, where the flatbread or non is world famous with a recipe that can’t be replicated anywhere else, and the bakers flip upside down to place the dough into their scorching-hot ovens hundreds of times a day.

Exploring Kyrgyzstan and Uzbekistan beyond the well-worn trail is truly a journey through time and tradition that will change your outlook on the world and have you heading home having made a group of new friends who love to explore as much as you do. See a full FAQ at the bottom of this page.

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Day(s) 0

Flight to Osh

Many travelers will need to book their flight leaving their home airport on July 18th or 19th in order to arrive in Osh on the 20th due to the time change and length of the flight(s).

Note: When searching for flights, it is sometimes more affordable to book a round-trip flight to a major airport like Istanbul and then book one-way flights to Osh and back to Istanbul from Samarkand. Alternatively, you can search for a multi-city round-trip flight to Kyrgyzstan's capital, Bishkek (and then book a one-way flight to Osh from Bishkek) and then home from Samarkand.

We are expecting to help everyone search for flights, so please don't hesitate to send an email or message if you have options that you want us to look over or if you don't know where to start. We can help advise you on how to book your flights using the multi-city method above, as you want to be careful when doing this to give yourself enough time on the layovers.

Day 1

Arrival in Osh

Arrive in Osh, an ancient city that has been a hub for caravans and travelers for centuries. Upon arrival at Osh International Airport (OSS), private transportation will be given from the airport to the hotel.

After checking in, those who arrive early will have extra time to walk around the bazaar (and maybe play a game of ping pong in the market?).

In the evening, there will be an included welcome dinner in the evening to get to know your fellow travelers and hikers! On this trip, you'll have plenty of opportunities to discover the local cuisine, which includes hand-pulled noodles, rice dishes in broth, soups, dumplings, grilled meats, savory pastries, and more.

Dinner is included.

Day 2

Depart Osh to Sary Mogul Village

After an included breakfast, the group will depart Osh for Sary Mogul Village in private transportation. Along the way, several cultural stops will be made with our local guide explaining the significance. The drive is stunning and passes through remarkable scenery along the way to Sary-Mogul, so enjoy the ride! Enjoy the incredible views of the 7,000+ meter snow-capped Pamir Mountains in the distance. Lunch will be taken at a stop at a yurt camp along the way. L
 
After a day of stops and exploring, we'll arrive at Sary Mogul Village (9,842ft/3,000m), a small town, where we will take our first glimpse of Kyrgyz rural life. Before dinner, there will be a hiking briefing with the local guides to:

Review the trek itinerary
Introduce the hiking guides and horsemen
Recheck each traveler's gear and clothing to make sure each person is ready to go
Advice on how to set your pace, take breaks, and eat and drink to feel your best during the trek
Motivate the group!!!

Join the group for tea and sweets before an included dinner served at the guesthouse in the evening. Wifi, electricity, bathrooms, and showers will be available at the guesthouse.

Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are included.

Day 3

Traveler's Pass and Lenin Peak

It's time to hike! After breakfast, the group will be driven in 4x4 vehicles to a yurt camp (11,500ft/3500m) near Lenin Peak Base Camp, which will be the group's first yurt camp accommodation of the trip with a background of 7000m+ snow-capped peaks. The nearby Tulpar Kol is a series of lakes set in the foothills of the Pamir Mountains, a stunning place for photography.

After dropping our things and settling in at camp, the group will depart for the first hike of the trip, passing the Lenin Peak Base Camp for mountaineers. The group will ascend to Traveler’s Pass. The trail goes slowly up except for the last 20 minutes where it becomes a steep zigzag trail that ends up on the Traveler’s Pass at 13,615ft (4,150m). Enjoy the magnificent views of glaciers on this massive mountain and watch the climbers (some of them carrying their skis and snowboards up the mountain!) go by as we take a picnic lunch.

The group will then hike back to the yurt camp and have some time to unwind, play cards, and listen to traditional music being played by one of the hiking guides before dinner. Bathrooms with hot showers, limited wifi, and electricity are available at this camp.

Hike #1: ~12 miles/20km and 2500ft/760m elevation gain

Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are included.

Day 4

Horseback Riding and Bread Baking

After breakfast, the group will depart in 4x4 vehicles back to Sary Mogul village. Once there, the group will visit the town's bazaar, have a warm lunch served at a guesthouse, and have the opportunity to take a warm shower and use the wifi.

From town, each traveler will be designated a horse for our afternoon horse trekking experience. Those who want a calmer, slower horse can request to be matched accordingly, and anyone who does not want to ride a horse can hike (~7.4 miles/12km) alongside the group instead. The activity will last for approximately 3 hours, as the group rides their horses to the yurt camp accommodation for the night.

The scenery will change from wide open plains to rolling hills to towering mountains. Along the way, we’ll encounter grazing animals such as yaks, sheep, goats, and horses, while spotting eagles soaring overhead and marmots scurrying through the grass. This remote trek also provides a unique opportunity to observe and learn about the semi-nomadic lifestyle that is still part of the Kyrgyz culture today.

Horseback riding is important in Kyrgyzstan's nomadic heritage, and horses continued to be used for transportation, work, and even currency. The cultural and symbolic significance of horseback riding in Kyrgyzstan is the main reason this activity is on the itinerary.

Once arriving at the yurt accommodation (10,826ft/3300m), each traveler can change and get comfortable. Next, join the group in the dining yurt for a bread baking class where each traveler will have the opportunity to make their own non, a round flatbread made on the yurt's stove.

Tea, snacks, and a warm dinner will be served. Bathrooms are available at this yurt, but wifi, electricity, and showers will only be at lunch, not the camp.

Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are included.

Day 5

Sary Mogul Pass

The day will begin with a warm breakfast in the dining yurt. Of course, warm tea is served with each meal. (If we're lucky, Gavin will be grinding fresh coffee beans for us as well...)

After breakfast, the group will pack up their things and do a group stretch. Sometimes the best way to loosen up the muscles is with a group dance!

We will begin our second day of hiking by walking for about an hour to the first viewpoint. Some parts are challenging, as the trail is narrow, and the terrain is composed mainly of scree and small pebbles. We will take a break and enjoy the views of the Pamir Mountains from the viewpoint before descending into a valley for another picnic lunch by a riverbank with glacier views.

After lunch, we will head to Sary Mogul Pass at 14,127ft/4,306 meters, the highest point of the entire trip. As you ascend, glaciated peaks and alpine lakes will begin to appear. At the top of the pass, we will see Besh Kol with views of alpine lakes and nearby peaks. After descending down a short but steep section on the other side of the pass, we will walk down to our yurt camp accommodation (11,811ft/3,600 meters). Rest, drink tea, enjoy dinner, play cards, relax with a book, and star gaze for the rest of the evening. Bathrooms are available at this yurt, but there will be no wifi, electricity, or showers.

Hike #2: ~9.3 miles/15km and 3500ft/1059m elevation gain

Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are included.

Day 6

Kosh Moinok Valley and Kyzyl Shoro Village

The mornings will each have the same comforting routine: a hot breakfast, warm tea, a group stretch, a little group dance to get our muscles warmed up, and good vibes.

Compared to the previous day, the beginning of the third day of hiking is relatively easy-going and mainly downhill. As the trek progresses through the valley, the trail cuts back and forth across the river several times. With the decline in elevation, the terrain begins to change from high alpine rocky and dry to mid-mountain green punctuated by the alpine lush of juniper bushes. Don’t forget to turn around from time to time to enjoy views of the surrounding glaciers and snow-covered peaks above and behind you. Pass through fields filled with grazing cows and shepherd’s yurts. After a few miles, we’ll reach the farmlands of Little Sary Mogul Village. Pass through the village and walk along the road to Kyzyl Shoro Village, where we will break for lunch and warm showers.

After leaving the guesthouse, we will slowly ascend through grass meadows and pastures to Koshmoinok Pass at 10,500ft/3,210 m. After the pass, we'll descend again into a valley, where we'll find our picturesque yurt camp at 9,186ft/2800m. We'll be greeted with some singing and dancing, relax, and enjoy our usual tea, snacks, and dinner while playing cards and chatting before bed. Bathrooms are available at this yurt, but wifi, electricity, and showers will only be at lunch, not the camp. This is our last yurt camp of the trip!

Hike #3: ~12miles/19.3km and 2850ft/866m elevation gain

Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are included.

Day 7

Final Hike to Kozhokelen Village and Return to Osh

After waking up in the stunning valley and having breakfast, the group will head out on the last hike of the trip.

First, we'll cross over a stream and ascend up to Sarybell Pass at 10,269ft/3,132 m. Views of the rugged Kichik Alay Mountains open up on top of the pass. From there, we'll follow the path until we see the “Three Dragon Gorge" red rocks formations, one of the most beautiful spots in all of Kyrgyzstan with the snow-covered Pamir landscapes in the distance. The trail then descends through the red rocks and into a cliffed riverbed until arriving to the Kozhokelen Village.

Hike #4: ~8.6miles/14km and 1522ft/464m elevation gain

We'll enjoy a late lunch at a guesthouse in the village, where wifi is available, to celebrate the end of our trek! After lunch, it's time to head back to the city and check back into our resort.

Back in Osh, take a refreshing shower before heading out to eat and celebrate with the rest of the group and enjoy all of the comforts of the city life.

Breakfast and lunch are included.

Day 8

Border Crossing into Uzbekistan's Fergana Valley

Begin your day in Kyrgyzstan with breakfast before we cross into Uzbekistan!

After a very short drive, we will cross the border into Uzbekistan's Fergana Valley. We will drive for ~1.5 hours through rolling landscapes and orchards to a city in the heart of the valley, Margilon. On arrival, we'll check into our guesthouse owned by a fifth-generation weaver who has collaborated with famous fashion designers and have lunch before going to visit a silk factory as a group.

Margilon has been a center of silk production for over a thousand years, dating back to the days of the Silk Road. Artisans still use centuries-old techniques such as ikat dyeing and hand-loom weaving. Silk is more than just an economic product here.

After the silk factory, we will had an included dinner at our favorite restaurant in Margilon where we can indulge in Uzbek cuisine or opt for other cuisines and desserts.

Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are included.

Day 9

Fergana Valley Tour

Begin your day with a hearty breakfast at our guesthouse in Fergana, sampling local breads, fresh fruit, and rich tea.

It's time for a tour of the Fergana Valley, a gem that is truly off the beaten track. We'll set out on as a group in private transportation with a local guide on a private drive to a ceramics workshop in Rishtan, a town famed for its distinctive blue-glazed pottery. Here, you'll tour the workshop, meet local artisans, and observe the full process, from preparing clay to hand-painting intricate patterns using natural dyes. You can shop for items to bring home as well. We will stop for lunch and coffee, as this is a full day trip around the valley.

In the afternoon, we will continue west to Kokand to explore the impressive Palace of Khudáyár Khán, where you can walk through ornately tiled halls and learn about the region’s royal history before heading back to Fergana in the early evening. The palace is a museum and monument to the region’s architectural, political, and cultural legacy during the final days of Central Asia’s independent khanates (kingdoms) before being annexed by the Russian Empire.

Head out with the group for a casual dinner for our last night in the Fergana Valley.

Breakfast and lunch are included.

Day 10

Depart Margilon to Samarkand

After breakfast and soaking up the last moments in this green valley, it's time for a travel day! We will depart Margilon as a group by private van and train.

Along the way, we will tentatively stop in Tashkent, Uzbekistan's capital, where we will take time to wander for lunch before continuing to Samarkand, once the crown jewel of the Silk Road.

As hungry travelers, we'll head out to grab some food in Samarkand after checking into our boutique hotel. Expect to find not only traditional Uzbek dishes (like plov, shashlik, lagman, and somsa) but also cafes and restaurants offering international cuisines—Italian, Turkish, Russian, even some vegetarian and fusion options. Samarkand has a more developed restaurant scene, and it's time to try more foods!

Breakfast is included.

Day 11

Samarkand Tour

After breakfast, we'll depart as a group with a local guide to have a day exploring Samarkand. We'll visit:

The majestic madrasahs of Registan Square
The mosaic-covered domes of the Shah-i-Zinda mausoleums
The Bibi-Khanym Mosque, built during the Timurid Renaissance, and the nearby bazaar
A traditional bakery to see how the world-famous Samarkand flatbread or non is specially made with a recipe that can’t be replicated anywhere else by bakers who flip upside down to place the dough into their scorching tandoor ovens hundreds of times a day.

In the evening, we can walk as a group to observe the night show at the Registan Square that illuminates the ancient madrasahs with vibrant colors and patterns before grabbing food as you please.

Breakfast and lunch are included.

Day 12

Free Day in Samarkand!

Enjoy a free day in Samarkand by exploring to your heart's desire, whether you want to explore more of the many historical sites, like the Observatory of Ulugbek, or shop for souvenirs. You can visit lesser-known gems, like the Siab Bazaar, where you can sample fresh local produce, sweets, and traditional bread still warm from clay ovens. Then stroll through the Russian Quarter, wander in Central Park, visit the Afrosiab Museum with its ancient murals, or relax in a cafe to enjoy some tea.

The group will meet for a finale dinner on our last night in Uzbekistan all together to say goodbye to one another on a rooftop overlooking Registan Square's stunning architecture.

Breakfast and dinner are included.

Day 13

Depart from Samarkand

Time for the final goodbyes! Enjoy one last included breakfast and say goodbye to your new travel friends. The only question left is: where should we explore together next?

Professional transportation from the accommodation to the Samarkand airport (SKD) is included.

Breakfast is included.

Frequently Asked Questions

Should we be worried about the altitude? The highest the group will go is 14,150ft (just over 4,303m) at Sary Mogul Pass, and we'll discuss with the group at length about how to prepare before (via a prep list and group video call) and during too, which often looks like staying hydrated and listening to your body. The altitude is very important to take seriously. It is also recommended to talk to your doctor about the trip itinerary, prescription medication for elevation, and more. This is especially helpful for those who already know they have a difficult time acclimating or are unsure how they typically acclimate, but it could benefit every traveler.

Is this trip doable if you’re afraid of heights? I don’t think it’s impossible with a fear of heights. Some parts of the trail are steep or may include walking near a drop off. There will be two local guides and a whole team of porters in addition to the TWC group leader. The local guides always offer to walk with those who may need extra support.

What will the weather be like? Peak summer (mid-July to August) is ideal for hiking in Kyrgyzstan. In late July, the Alay Mountains in Kyrgyzstan offer mild summer weather, with daytime temperatures reaching the mid-20s°C (mid-70s°F) and nighttime lows dipping to +5–15°C (41–59°F). This season has the highest chance for conditions that are generally good for hiking, but strong sun, wind, precipitation, and altitude shifts make layers and sun protection essential. In contrast, Osh and Samarkand experience a warm summer, with daytime temperatures of 33–38°C (91–100°F) and warm, dry nights. The Fergana Valley also sees similar hot, arid conditions, so visitors should plan for sun protection and hydration.

Does the price include all 3 meals a day? The trip includes ~30 meals! A few meals are not included in the 13 days because they take place during free time, so it works best for people to choose what they want to eat at those times. Although people often still stick together, and we make recommendations on places to eat.

Are we required to pay additional gratuity in addition to the price? For this trip, tips are included in the trip cost. TWC tips the local guides, porters, drivers, etc on behalf of the whole group. However, travelers are always welcome to give additional tips to the local hiking guides (who are with the group for 5 days) and their porter. Again, the expected amount is included in the trip package, some some travelers want to give more if they really appreciate the local guides.

How difficult are the hikes? The activity level of this trip is high. There are 4 days of hiking, and there will be walking involved on most other days. The terrain on the hiking days is strenuous and can be steep. The stats on mileage and elevation gain each hiking day are written in the itinerary above. It is recommended that those who join this trip have either hiked with TWC before or hiked on their own before, but information on how to best prepare to make the hikes as comfortable as possible will also be given to everyone signed up. Beginners with no hiking experience are welcome to join if they are committed to preparing in the months before the trip and having a positive attitude! Prepared hikers are the happiest hikers.

What will we have to carry? You'll store your main luggage in the hotel back in Osh. On the trek, you'll want to have a small backpack that you'll hike with for your water bottle, sunscreen, small stuff, etc. All of your additional clothes and items for the 5 day trek will be carried by horses. You can have up to 14kgs/30lbs carried for you, which is more than enough! Your bags will be delivered to each guesthouse or yurt when we arrive each night.

What should I do to prepare? The answer to that is going to look different for everyone! To start, we will always recommend trying out some hikes where you live. Not everyone lives in a place where there are hikes like this with elevation, and that’s okay! Wherever you can get yourself walking and legs moving is great. Make a plan, go with a buddy, and have fun! If you don’t have access to any trails with elevation gain, the stairmaster in a gym is similar. Try it out, but don’t rush! Put the speed as slow as you want. During the trip, everyone will go at their own pace, and there will be local guides with the group. However, it’s important to put some thought into preparing, and you will be so happy you did! If you’re already an experienced hiker, this may not feel as important to you. Only you know your body, so we can only make generalized recommendations. We will chat more about how else to prepare during the group video call in the spring of 2026 (and in regular notes and posts via email and the Facebook group throughout the year until the trip).

Do I need a visa? Each traveler will be responsible for paying for their e-visa in advance of arriving in Uzbekistan. The cost of the single-entry tourist visa is 20 USD. This requirement may be dropped in 2026, and travelers will be updated. No visa is needed for Kyrgyzstan for travelers with US passports for stays of less than 60 days. To discuss potential via requirements for travelers with other passports, please email jessica@travelwc.com.

Is it normal to come solo? Absolutely! One of the best things about TWC is that we prioritize community, and our groups get close quickly. We see a lot of roommates become great friends and entire groups reunite after the trip ends.

What will we experience aside from hiking? So much! There is a lot of culture, history, nature, etc that we'll experience as well. We'll see wildlife, visit UNESCO World Heritage sites in Osh and Samarkand, explore many other stunning sites that are important pieces of history yet not well known worldwide, learn how traditional ceramics and silks are made in the Fergana Valley, try many different Kyrgyz and Uzbek foods, learn about bread baking in both countries, and so much more.

Do you offer payment plans? Yes! During the sign-up process, you can select to opt into a monthly payment plan interest-free. You will find the package cost under the "Pricing and Dates" section on the trip page. When signing up, you'll have the option to opt in for an interest-free payment plan. Only a deposit of $299 is due on the day of booking. The remaining balance can be paid in 6 monthly installments starting in December and going into May. However, you'll have access to an account where you can log in anytime, see your payment plan details, make a partial or full payment anytime you want, and more. We try our best to be as flexible as possible, so you are dealing directly with a real person, me!

Do I need camping equipment? Travelers can rent a sleeping bag for the trekking days. A detailed packing list will be provided, but the only other "gear" travelers will need to bring themselves is hiking shoes and clothes for hiking in. Some small items like a reusable water bottle, sunscreen, etc will also be recommended. For backpacks, a small but comfortable backpack to store your water and snacks for the day is sufficient, as you can put the rest of your items in provided duffle bags that the porters will carry.

Do you accommodate dietary restrictions and allergies? TWC is always happy to accommodate dietary requests to the best of our abilities. In Kyrgyzstan specifically, most dietary restrictions and allergies can be accommodated for, but please note that options at the yurt camps are somewhat limited. Gluten free options and vegetarian options are available, for example, but may not avoid cross-contamination. Please reach out to jessica@travelwc.com to discuss further. A question during the signup process for each trip asks the traveler to note any dietary requests, allergies, etc.