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The Ultimate Fann Mountains Trek

Tajikistan, Uzbekistan
9 reviews
Available Departures: Jul, Aug, Sep

13 days from

US$3,130

without flights
View Dates & Prices
Walk & Trek
Guided Group
MODERATE MODERATE

A trekking holiday in the Fann Mountains of Tajikistan, plus time across the border exploring Samarkand in Uzbekistan

Trip Code: UFT
Holiday Grades

Our Holiday Grades Explained

To show the relative difficulty of our holidays, each trip is graded on a scale of 1 to 12, with 12 being the most challenging. Although we have tried to make our grading system as clear as possible, it cannot take into account your personal interests, abilities or experience. If you have any questions about the nature of a particular trip or its suitability for you, please read the 'Is this holiday for you?' section or contact us.

1 - 3 LEISURELY
1 - 3 LEISURELY

Suitable for most people in good health, holidays at this grade include only limited amounts of activity.

View leisurely holidays
4 - 6 MODERATE
4 - 6 MODERATE

Suitable for reasonably fit individuals, such as weekend walkers and cyclists. There can be the occasional more difficult day.

View moderate holidays
7 - 9 CHALLENGING
7 - 9 CHALLENGING

Physically challenging holidays, where you need to be prepared before you go.

View challenging holidays
10 - 12 TOUGH
10 - 12 TOUGH

Our toughest holidays, involving many long days, often in isolated areas. A high level of fitness and previous wilderness and mountain experience is essential.

View Tough holidays

The Ultimate Fann Mountains Trek

Highlights
  • An off-the-beaten-track trek in a little-visited part of the Pamir range
  • Enjoy pristine campsites alongside azure-blue Fann Mountain lakes
  • Meet the nomadic Tajik shepherds as they graze their flocks on remote upland pastures
  • Cross into Uzbekistan to discover Samarkand's magnificent Registan Square
At a Glance
  • Group Size 6 to 12
  • 7 days trekking
  • 3 days sightseeing
  • Max altitude - 3860m
  • Join In Dushanbe, End in Samarkand
Accommodation & Meals
  • 13 Breakfasts
  • 11 Lunches
  • 9 Dinners
  • 5 nights Camping
  • 1 nights Homestay
  • 1 nights Mountain Hut / Refuge
  • 2 nights Guesthouse
  • 4 nights Hotel
Overview

The southern edge of the Central Asian republics is defined by the rocky barrier of the Pamirs which includes the little-visited Fann Mountains. This spectacular range has numerous snow-capped 5000 metre peaks and the potential for brilliant trekking, through rocky valleys and across high passes. Accessed through the Tajikistan capital, Dushanbe, our sensational trek makes a comprehensive tour of this rugged and picturesque landscape, where Tajik shepherds graze their flocks on remote upland pastures. Climbing to high viewpoints and enjoying a succession of superb lakeside camping places, this is a truly memorable trek. After the trek, we travel into neighbouring Uzbekistan, where we visit the stunning Silk Road city of Samarkand. More than 2500 years old and known as the 'Gem of the East', Samarkand is one of the wonders of the world, with mosaic-clad monuments that are guaranteed to take your breath away. This is Central Asia at its best!

Is this holiday for you?

This is great territory for trekking, generally following clear, dry paths through rocky mountain terrain. The trails we follow have been used by local shepherds for generations. We will be walking for around 6 and 7 hours each day, stopping for lunch after 3 or 4 hours, although some days may be longer. Many of the days will include between ascent and descents of up to 1000m. …

This is great territory for trekking, generally following clear, dry paths through rocky mountain terrain. The trails we follow have been used by local shepherds for generations. We will be walking for around 6 and 7 hours each day, stopping for lunch after 3 or 4 hours, although some days may be longer. Many of the days will include between ascent and descents of up to 1000m. Trekking at altitudes above 3000m makes greater demands on the body than walking at low elevations and can be challenging even for fit hikers. You should ensure that you are physically prepared for this trek. In addition, this trip involves some long overland transfers and a potentially slow border crossing. This holiday is a real off-the-beaten-track experience and is therefore most suitable for those with a longing for adventure, who have trekked previously in remote areas.

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Why KE?

We'll help you discover the parts of Central Asia that other tours don’t reach! Enjoy this trek, unique to KE, in the wild and wonderful Fann Mountains. With all meals included this holiday is also great value for money.

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Itinerary

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Arriving in Dushanbe in Tajikistan in the early morning, we meet our tour leader and transfer to the group hotel, where we have arranged an early check in. After a couple of hours to freshen up we will start our tour of this capital city. A city with a captivating history and unique architecture we take in the famous "Sleeping Buddha" at the National Museum of Antiquities and Navruz Palace. After lunch, we will visit the statue of Ismail Somoni in Rudaki Park. This large monument commemorates the 1,100th anniversary of the Samanid State, a Golden Age of the Tajik nation, when science and arts flourished. From there we will walk through pretty Rudaki Park, which is dedicated to the great Persian poet Rudaki, who also lived during the Samanid period, in the 10th century.

Accommodation

Hotel

Meals

B L
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It's a moderately long but scenic drive out of Dushanbe to Iskanderkul. We will stop on the way to have lunch in Sarvoda. By early afternoon we will reach Iskanderkul, the triangular lake named after Alexander the Great ("Iskander" is the Persian form of Alexander). It is considered to be one of the most exquisitely beautiful lakes in all of the former Soviet Union. In addition to admiring the views there will be time for a short hike to Iskander Waterfall and Snake Lake before dinner. We will spend the night in rustic cottages on the lake shore.

Accommodation

Guesthouse

Meals

B L D

Time

1-2 hrs walking
Hide Details

We will be back on the road again today following a route which takes us through the Shing Gorge, with its famous seven pearls of Tajikistan - seven mountain lakes each with its own distinctive colour, microclimate, and flora. We are in no hurry today and can take photo stops at many beautiful spots along the way. Near the fourth lake we stop at the village of Noffin for lunch in a family guesthouse. After lunch we drive further up to the sixth lake with a short walk in Podrud village along the way. From sixth lake we hike less than one hour up to the 7th and last lake - Hazorchashma. The trekking crew of donkeys, cook and support staff will meet us at the lake, where we will set up camp.

Accommodation

Camping

Meals

B L D

Time

1 hr walking

Distance

2 KM
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After a hearty breakfast at camp we trek East from Hazorchashma Lake towards Tovassang Pass, climbing steadily to 3350m. The exertion is well worth the effort, though, as we will be treated to an incredible view over the stunning Sarmat Gorge. We continue on, through the breath taking Danisher Gorge, where we will find a spot to camp for the night.

Accommodation

Camping

Meals

B L D

Time

6 - 7 hrs trekking

Distance

12 KM
Hide Details

Fortunately, what goes up must come down and it's downhill all the way today. We'll stroll down the trail that leads through dense forest to the small village of Khomori Goitan before crossing the Archamaidon and Sarmat rivers. We'll be glad of our crew and their pack mules who'll take the hard work out of carrying our gear, leaving us free to focus our attention solely on the unmissable scenery that unfolds before us. Our goal today is to reach the Duoba campsite, located at 1870 metres above sea level at the confluence of the Archamaidon and Sarmat rivers.

Accommodation

Camping

Meals

B L D

Descent

900 M

Time

5 - 6 hrs trekking

Distance

14 KM
Hide Details

Another day's trekking begins this morning. Our route hugs the banks of the Archamaidon River. In comparison to the rocky slopes, the meadows which surround the river are lush and verdant. We follow the main road past the villages of Voru and Gaza. Having paused for lunch somewhere along the way we will hike until we reach the village of Zimtut, where we are welcomed by a friendly family in their home, where we will have dinner and overnight. There will be some time to discover the charming village of Zimtut and get acquainted with the village life.

Accommodation

Homestay

Meals

B L D

Time

5 - 6 hrs trekking

Distance

12 KM
Hide Details

Today it is time to hike uphill again as we will cross Ghuytan pass (3000m) to reach Chukurak Lake (2450m). After some time to enjoy this magical mountain lake we hike half an hour down to Artuch Alpinist camp, where we can enjoy the benefits of a night indoors.

Accommodation

Mountain Hut / Refuge

Meals

B L D

Ascent

1100 M

Descent

800 M

Time

5 - 6 hrs trekking

Distance

10 KM
Hide Details

Feeling refreshed after a good night's rest, we are ready for the delightful ascent to the Kulikalon Lakes. The Kulikalon area is a plateau at an altitude of around 2800m full of rivers and beautiful lakes of varying size and colour. Many consider these lakes to be the most beautiful of the entire Fann Mountains. We will arrive early enough at the lakes, so we can fully explore and enjoy the area at our own pace. We finish our day at the particularly picturesque lake of Bibijanat, where we will set up camp for the night.

Accommodation

Camping

Meals

B L D

Ascent

600 M

Time

4 - 6 hrs trekking

Distance

10 KM
Hide Details

We depart Bibijanat and ascend towards the incredible Alauddin Pass (3860m). This is the highest point of our trek and the most challenging climb. We take our time ascending this steep pass, before being rewarded with clear views of Chapdara Glacier, the peak of the same name, as well as Mount Odamsang and Mount Marriya. Looking down from the pass we can already spot the two Alauddin Lakes. The descent is quite steep and it takes longer than it seems until we finally reach the shore of Lake Alauddin where we can bathe in the refreshingly cold water. We set up our tents next to the lake for a truly special campsite.

Accommodation

Camping

Meals

B L D

Ascent

1000 M

Descent

1100 M

Time

7 hours trekking

Distance

9 KM
Hide Details

Today we walk downhill for half an hour from Alauddin Lake to Alauddin Alpinist Camp, where our driver will be waiting to take us to the border town of Penjikent. In Penjikent we will have a final lunch and to visit the Sarasm ruins - a UNESCO world heritage site before saying goodbye to our Tajik guide. Crossing the border into Uzbekistan we meet with our Uzbeki guide and vehicle for the drive to our hotel in Samarkand.

Accommodation

Hotel

Meals

B L D

Descent

200 M

Time

1 hour walking

Distance

2 KM
Hide Details

After a relaxed breakfast we start our sightseeing tour of this amazing city as we follow in the footsteps of Tamerlane. We visit the Gur Emir Mausoleum, where the tomb of Tamerlane lies beneath an enormous slab of dark green jade. The interior of the mausoleum is ornately decorated with blue and gold panels, which shine brightly. We then continue to Registan Square, one of the most magnificent squares in the Islamic World, and the 3 Madrassahs (Islamic Colleges) that surround the square. Our tour also visits Shakhi Zinda Necropolis, Bibi Khanym Mosque - built by Tamerlane in the 15th century - and King Ulugbek's Observatory, which still houses parts of the original astronomical instruments.

Accommodation

Hotel

Meals

B L
Hide Details

Today is free for you to discover the hidden gems of this enchanting Silk Road city. You can immerse yourself in the rich culture and history of the old town, where you can stroll through the narrow and winding alleyways. Perhaps take in some souvenir shopping at the Slyob Bazaar, visit a traditional teahouse or explore some of the many other photogenic mosques, minarets and madrassahs (university buildings). Another option is to take a day trip to nearby Shahrisabz, one of the most ancient cities along the Silk Road and birthplace of Amir Temur, 88km to the south of Samarkand. Your tour leader can help you plan to get the most of out of this free day.

Accommodation

Hotel

Meals

B
Hide Details

An early morning transfer takes us back to Samarkand Airport where the trip concludes.

Accommodation

Guesthouse

Meals

B
Hide Details
Download Trip Notes
The Route
Point Point
Airport Airport
Direction Direction
Trek
Transfer

Essential Information

We've compiled some of our Frequently Asked Questions to help you learn more about this amazing trip.

  • An experienced English speaking tour leader and assistant guide on trek.

  • Single timed airport transfers on arrival and departure

  • All accommodation as described

  • When camping a full service including food and all equipment (excluding personal equipment)

  • All meals with the exception of dinners in Dushanbe and Samarkand

  • All land transport required by the itinerary

  • All activities/excursions/entrance fees mentioned except where specified as 'optional'

  • Travel insurance
  • Uzbekistan and Tajikistan visa fees
  • Airport transfers other than group transfers
  • Tips for local guides and support staff
  • Fees for using a camera at some of the monuments in Samarkand
  • Miscellaneous expenses - souvenirs and drinks etc

The group will meet at breakfast time at the hotel in Dushanbe. A room has been booked for the preceeding night, allowing for check in if arriving on an early morning flight or the day before.

A single group transfer is provided from Dushanbe Airport. On the last day of the itinerary a single group transfer is provided to Samarkand Airport.

Hotel contact details along with an emergency contact number will be provided with your booking confirmation.

All meals, with the exception of dinners in Dushanbe and Samarkand, are included in the holiday price.

It is not recommended to drink untreated water from the taps. If you are on a trekking or cycling holiday, water is supplied to fill up your individual bottles. This will be boiled, filtered or provided in large jerry cans or 5 litre bottles. Additionally you should take purification tablets or a filter bottle (such as a Water-To-Go bottle) to treat your water when in towns or where water is not supplied. We do not encourage the purchasing of single use plastic bottles.

On trek, the food is a mixture of local and Western dishes using ingredients purchased locally and cooked by trek cooks. Breakfasts consist of porridge or eggs, bread, tea and coffee. Lunches are usually a healthy picnic with a choice of canned fish, tinned meats, cheese, sausage, tomatoes, cucumbers served with potatoes, rice or pasta. Dinner taken in a group ‘mess’ tent will consist of a starter and main course followed by fruit. Please note that vegetarianism is a concept not widely understood in Central Asia. Please note that vegetarianism is not a concept widely understood in Central Asia and choices for vegetarians will be much more limited. If you are vegetarian please remember to inform us of your dietary requirements before you travel. You may also wish to bring along some snacks from home to use during the course of your walking days.

On arrival we stay in a local 3 star hotel in Dushanbe. We have booked the rooms for the night before the tour starts, so if arriving early in the morning we will have access to the rooms to get a few hours rest before breakfast. We stay an additional night in the hotel in Dushanbe.

At Lake Iskanderkul we stay in basic cottages on the lake shore, the rooms here are en suite.

On trek we have a total of 5 nights supported camping, 1 night in a local homestay in a small village on the route, and night in a mountain hut.

There will also be 3 nights in en suite rooms at a comfortable hotel in Samarkand.

With the exception of the night in the homestay, all accommodation is twin share. If you are travelling by yourself, you will be paired up with another single client of the same sex. Single rooms (not available in the homestay) and tents are available for a supplementary cost. Single tents are limited and should be requested at the time of booking.

If you are planning to extend your holiday, additional nights in Samarkand are available on request.

The group will be led by a professional and qualified tour leader.

Groups of 8 or more travellers will also have a second, assistant leader.

Whilst on trek the group will be supported by a local trek crew including cooks, camp assistants and porters.

This holiday involves going to high altitude. During the course of your trip you will reach altitudes in excess of 3500 metres. This is not something that you should worry about; the human body is quite capable of adapting to a very wide range of altitudes, but it is important that we follow some simple rules in order to acclimatise successfully. Before coming on this holiday you should read the advice on trekking at high altitude. You can also talk to one of our trekking experts if you have any concerns about altitude.

Approximately $200 should be allowed for miscellaneous expenses, including approximately $60 for trek crew and drivers tips. We recommend that you take your travel money in the form of US dollars cash. Money can be changed at a reasonable rate at Dushanbe Airport or at authorised money changers near to the hotel. Credit cards are of limited use in Tashkent and Samarkand and foreign cards are not generally accepted at ATMs.

In Central Asia, it is usual to tip the members of your trek crew, including your local guide, if you are happy with the services provided. We suggest you coordinate these tips as a group and as a rough guide we recommend £50 will cover this aspect of your trip expenditure. The exact amount should be determined by the group and the tour leader will give advice on how this should be distributed throughout the crew.

For this holiday you should take one piece of luggage, which should be a soft and sturdy duffel bag, and a day pack.  Your bag on trek will be carried by pack animals and should not weigh more than 15kg.  For international flights please check your baggage allowance with your airline.

For each holiday there is a minimum number of participants required to enable it to go ahead. Once the minimum number is reached, the trip status will change from 'Available' to 'Guaranteed to run'. You can check the trip status for each departure in the ‘Dates and Prices’ table. Other than in exceptional circumstances, we will not cancel a trip once it has achieved this guaranteed to run status so you are free to proceed with your international flight booking and other travel arrangements.

The information that we provide is for UK passport holders. A passport with 6 months remaining validity at the end of your stay is generally required, and you should have at least 2 blank pages for each country that you visit.

It is your responsibility to ensure that you have the correct travel documents and visas for your holiday. Please ensure that you check for the latest advice before travel. For the most up to date information on entry requirements, please visit the UK Government website.

If you have a UK passport you can enter Uzbekistan as a visitor for stays of up to 30 days without a visa. For stays longer than 30 days you can apply for an e-visa via the Uzbekistan e-visa Portal

Other nationalities, should check entry requirements with the Embassy of the Republic of Uzbekistan in their own country.

Visa Tajikistan

UK, US, Australian, New Zealand, Irish, and Canadian passport holders can apply for a Single Entry visa via the Tajikistan e-visa Portal: https://www.evisa.tj/index.evisa.html

Our agent in Tajikistan has offered to expedite Tajikistan e-visas for KE customers. Please contact KE if you would like to take advantage of this service. We will require a single scan of both pages that face each other in the passport, not just a scan of the information page of your passport. There will be a fee of $60 in total ($30 Tajikistan e-visa fee + $30 admin fee). The $60 fee will be converted into the currency you are paying KE at the prevailing exchange rate. We will e-mail your Tajik e-visa to you once it has been issued. Please ensure you cross-check ALL details on your Visa prior and inform us of any errors immediately.

The e-visa is valid for a period of up to 90 days from the date specified in your application, although you can spend no more than 60 days within the country.

If you are arranging your own visa, the Tajikistan e-visa portal recommend applying for the e-visa at least 2 weeks ahead of travel, however we have found these timings can sometimes be quite tight and would recommend applying 4 weeks ahead of travel to allow for any unexpected delays. * Please note that recent Tajik Visa applications have required a letter of invitation and we will be sending these out to any customers applying for their own visa.

The information you provide for the e-visa needs to exactly match your travel documents or you may be refused entry to the country.

Please enter the following on the application form:

Where asked if you need a GBAO Permit tick - NO
Group identifier – KE Adventure Travel / Paramount Journey
Address in Tajikistan - Shumon Hotel, Niyozi 34, Dushanbe 734000

You will be asked to upload a copy of your passport. Please use a scanner, rather than a phone camera, and make a single scan of both pages that face each other in the passport, not just a scan of the information page of your passport. Only use the supported formats listed for your passport scan and ensure the file size is less than 1MB.

Important: if your occupation is in journalism or government service such as the military or police, please contact the KE office before making your application.
_______________

If you have a severe allergy please inform the KE office before you travel. We will do all we can to help, but we cannot guarantee an allergy free environment on KE trips. You will need to carry your own treatment for the allergy with you, as 'adrenaline auto-injectors' are not carried as standard by KE leaders and staff. You should inform your leader on arrival of your allergy, and let them know where you keep your adrenaline pen.

VACCINATIONS

You should contact your doctor or travel clinic to check whether you require any specific vaccinations or other preventive measures. You should be up to date with routine courses and boosters as recommended in the UK e.g. diphtheria-tetanus-polio and measles-mumps-rubella, along with hepatitis A and typhoid. A good online resource is Travel Health Pro.

Getting some additional exercise before coming on an active holiday makes a lot of sense. The fitter you are, after all, the more enjoyable you will find the experience.

You should be aerobically fit and comfortable with walking for up to 8 hours for consecutive days. Hill walking, with a good amount of ascent and descent, is the best training, and we would suggest that you try to fit in a number of long weekend walks before you depart. Running, cycling and swimming are also good for developing cardio vascular fitness and stamina. 

There is little you can do to prepare for the altitude but if you have an excellent level of fitness this can help.

In Dushanbe, Tashkent and Samarkand, the temperatures in July and August will be hot, with daytime temperatures of 30 to 35 degrees Centigrade. Once we get up into the mountains, it will be much cooler, with average daytime temperatures of 20 to 25 degrees Centigrade and night-time temperatures at our highest camps falling to freezing - 0 degrees Centigrade. The weather is generally excellent throughout the summer, with clear skies and little rain or snow. However, weather in mountainous areas is notoriously difficult to predict, and short-lived storms can occur at any time of the year.

As a reputable tour operator, KE supports the British Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office's ‘Travel Aware’ campaign to enable British citizens to prepare for their journeys overseas. The 'Travel Aware' website provides a single, authoritative source of advice for all kinds of travellers and we recommend that before travel, all KE clients visit the official UK Government website at travelaware.campaign.gov.uk and read the FCDO Travel Advice for their chosen destination. North Americans can also check out the U.S. Department of State website: www.travel.state.gov for essential travel advice and tips.

KE treat the safety and security of all clients as the most important aspect of any trip we organise. We would not run any trip that we did not consider reasonably safe.  Should the FCDO advise against travel for any reason, we will contact everyone booked to travel to discuss the situation.  We receive regular updates directly from the FCDO and are in constant touch with our contacts on the ground.  If you have any questions about government travel advice, please call our office.

KE do not encourage the use of single use plastic items. We are ensuring that our agents all over the world are working together to reduce the problem and educate those around them. We are leading by example in our KE office by reducing our plastic use.

  • Tajikistan. Bradt (2013 edition)

  • Uzbekistan. Bradt (2013 edition)

  • Central Asia. Lonely Planet

  • The Lost Heart of Asia. Colin Thubron

  • The Golden Road to Samarkand. Odyssey Guides

  • Foreign Devils on the Silk Road. Peter Hopkirk

  • The Great Game. Peter Hopkirk

  • Xinjiang, the Silk Road. Islam’s Overland Route to China. Peter Yung

EWP Fann Mountains Map and Guide

1:100,000 Topographical Map plus Central Asia Ridge map and Fann Mountains location map

It is an essential condition of joining a holiday with KE Adventure Travel that you have a valid travel insurance policy to cover the cost of medical treatment and to protect the value of your holiday in the event of cancellation.  When taking out insurance please ensure the policy you choose covers you for the activities and altitude included in your itinerary.

For appropriate insurance cover we recommend Campbell Irvine Direct.  Please go to our Travel Insurance page for further information and to get a quote.

Please try to keep the weight of your baggage to a minimum. See the ‘baggage allowance’ section for further details.

The packed weight of your kit bag whilst trekking should be no more than 15 kgs.

You must bring the following items:

  • Hiking boots

  • Trainers / sandals for river crossings

  • Sleeping bag (comfort rated -5°C)

  • Thermarest or similar sleeping mat (please note that thin sleeping mats are provided)

  • Socks

  • Underwear

  • Trekking trousers

  • Waterproof overtrousers

  • Waterproof jacket

  • Thermal underwear

  • Thermal baselayer shirts (2 short sleeve, 2 long sleeve)

  • T-shirts

  • Shorts and/or swimwear

  • Fleece jacket or warm jumper

  • Warm jacket (down)

  • Sunhat

  • Warm hat

  • Sunglasses

  • Warm gloves

  • Buff/scarf (to protect against dust)

  • Small padlock (to lock your KE kit bag)

  • Selection of dry bags (to keep kit bag contents dry)

  • Daypack 30 to 40 litres

  • Headtorch and  spare batteries

  • Sun protection (including total bloc for lips, nose etc.)

  • Water bottles 1 litre (x2) (we encourage re-filling water bottles rather than single use plastic)

  • Water purification tablets

  • Washbag and toiletries

  • Antibacterial handwash

  • Small towel

  • Basic First Aid Kit including: antiseptic and antihistamine cream, throat lozenges, diarrhoea treatment (Imodium), painkillers, plasters and blister treatment, Insect repellent, and re-hydration salts (Dioralite).

The following items are optional:

  • Trekking poles (optional, but highly recommended)

  • Swimwear (we will be camping near mountain lakes on several nights)

  • Sleeping bag liner

  • Pen-knife (remember to pack sharp objects in hold baggage)

  • Repair kit – (eg. needle, thread, duct tape)

  • Camera

  • Travel clothes

  • Reusable cloth bag for shopping (to avoid plastic bags)

Notes:

Every night camping you are usually beside a lake or river, so it is possible to wash yourself and your clothes providing you bring biodegradable soap.

Many of the equipment items listed above are available from Cotswold Outdoor - our 'Official Recommended Outdoor Retailer'. When you book a holiday with KE you will receive a 12.5% discount with Cotswold Outdoor, Snow+Rock and Runners Need. The discount code can be downloaded from your MyKE account and you can use this code at the checkout, either in store or online.

Reviews

4.7 out of 5 from 9 reviews

What a Fann-tastic trip! ★★★★★

What can I say, this really was a Fann-tastic trip!

The weather was fabulous in July, it was shorts and T.shirt weather throughout the trek.

The scenery is spectacular (especially the lakes) and the (wild) camping spots (all by streams or lakes) are remote and simply stunning - most of the camping spots we had to ourselves. What made it so amazing was how quiet and remote it is. The first three/four days we didn't see any other trekkers or westerners, just she pherd's and local Tajik people (who are extremely hospitable and invite you in for tea, bread, and homemade apricot jam). The trek passes over some high passes so there are some long and steep ascents and descents, but the mountains, wild flowers, and lakes that you see en-route are simply stunning and well worth the effort. It's also lovely to see all the free-roaming herds of cows and goats enjoying the mountain pastures.

Umed was a great guide. He set a good pace uphill (good for faster walkers to follow) and was comfortable with me running downhill ahead of him - just telling me where to wait for him and the rest of the group. The support crew were also great, and looked after us well during the trek.

Food is plentiful. Breakfast is a bit of a challenge if you're vegan, as it's mostly porridge or eggs (although bread and jam is available), but the picnic lunches and dinners are pretty good (for vegans and vegetarians) and they do their best to cater for a vegetarian or vegan diet. There's lots of tasty vegetable soups and fresh salads, and lots of refreshing watermelon for afternoon tea.

The city tours in Dushanbe and Samarkand are really good and you get to see all the key sights.
Can recommend Emirhan restaurant in Samarkand as they have a rooftop terrace which is great for watching the sunset.

Useful tips for travellers
You can get beer at the homestay, mountain hut, and the last campsite at Lake Alauddin. There are showers at the homestay and mountain hut. You can charge your phone/camera etc at the homestay and the mountain hut - you need a European two-pin adaptor. While on the trek, you fill your water bottles from streams and they give you a filter water bottle as a welcome gift which was thoughtful and practical. Hydration tablets / electrolytes are really useful for the more challenging uphill days, especially if it's hot. 
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By Julia from Chesterfield - UK | 29 August 2024

Stunning Tajikistan scenery ★★★★★

The best scenery I've witnessed on all my trips so far! Stunning lakes along the whole trek, beautiful camping spots each night, friendly support crew, tasty and plentiful food (no need to take your own snacks), welcoming local people en route offering tea and snacks. At the end of the day's trekking, take a small stroll or sit and admire the great surroundings at camp listening to a babbling brook!
Dushanbe and Samarkand either side of the trek are wonderful cities, although ve ry hot in the summer so be prepared.
Tips - take your own camping mat as you do camp on hard ground a couple of nights, temperature does drop when the sun goes down but no need for gloves or hat, we were provided with water filter bottles to fill up from glacial streams along the trek. 
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By Matthew from UK | 30 July 2024

An amazing trip in beautiful mountains. 

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By Angela from Chester | 22 August 2023

Great trip ★★★★

This was a great trek through beautiful mountains. The area is still not on the top of the list for most trekkers, which makes it a great place to go because it is undiscovered and uncrowded. We only saw a few other hikers the entire time we were there, especially during the first week of the trip which was very untravelled. The trip had some of the most beautiful campsites I have ever had, with gorgeous mountain views, and usually next to a crystal clear lake or river. The local crew was amazin g and worked incredibly hard, and our guide Jose was great. All of the food problems referenced by earlier travelers have been resolved, and our food was very good and plentiful. My least favorite part of this trip was the heat. Although KE's guidance indicates it will be 20-25 in the mountains, it was much warmer than that, which made conditions challenging. When we got to Uzbekistan, the heat was stifling and unfortunately dampened our desire to venture out and explore. If you go, bring some light, breezy clothes and whatever else you usually use to stay cool. We spent as much time as possible dunking our hats, buffs, and whatever else we had in the rivers so the water could cool us while we walked. 
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By Leslie from Telluride | 01 September 2019

A wonderful experience in a fascinating country ★★★★★

The camping accommodation, arrangements and food were all excellent. All needs catered for. The crew were great, always helpful, and the leader went out of her way to sort out any problems. I would recomment going to Tajikistan before it becomes too popular with trekkers from Europe. 

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By Judith from Northwood | 28 August 2019
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4.7 out of 5 from 13 reviews
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What a Fann-tastic trip!
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
What can I say, this really was a Fann-tastic trip!

The weather was fabulous in July, it was shorts and T.shirt weather throughout the trek.

The scenery is spectacular (especially the lakes) and the (wild) camping spots (all by streams or lakes) are remote and simply stunning - most of the camping spots we had to ourselves. What made it so amazing was how quiet and remote it is. The first three/four days we didn't see any other trekkers or westerners, just she pherd's and local Tajik people (who are extremely hospitable and invite you in for tea, bread, and homemade apricot jam). The trek passes over some high passes so there are some long and steep ascents and descents, but the mountains, wild flowers, and lakes that you see en-route are simply stunning and well worth the effort. It's also lovely to see all the free-roaming herds of cows and goats enjoying the mountain pastures.

Umed was a great guide. He set a good pace uphill (good for faster walkers to follow) and was comfortable with me running downhill ahead of him - just telling me where to wait for him and the rest of the group. The support crew were also great, and looked after us well during the trek.

Food is plentiful. Breakfast is a bit of a challenge if you're vegan, as it's mostly porridge or eggs (although bread and jam is available), but the picnic lunches and dinners are pretty good (for vegans and vegetarians) and they do their best to cater for a vegetarian or vegan diet. There's lots of tasty vegetable soups and fresh salads, and lots of refreshing watermelon for afternoon tea.

The city tours in Dushanbe and Samarkand are really good and you get to see all the key sights.
Can recommend Emirhan restaurant in Samarkand as they have a rooftop terrace which is great for watching the sunset.

Useful tips for travellers
You can get beer at the homestay, mountain hut, and the last campsite at Lake Alauddin. There are showers at the homestay and mountain hut. You can charge your phone/camera etc at the homestay and the mountain hut - you need a European two-pin adaptor. While on the trek, you fill your water bottles from streams and they give you a filter water bottle as a welcome gift which was thoughtful and practical. Hydration tablets / electrolytes are really useful for the more challenging uphill days, especially if it's hot.
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By Julia from Chesterfield - UK | 29 August 2024
Stunning Tajikistan scenery
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
The best scenery I've witnessed on all my trips so far! Stunning lakes along the whole trek, beautiful camping spots each night, friendly support crew, tasty and plentiful food (no need to take your own snacks), welcoming local people en route offering tea and snacks. At the end of the day's trekking, take a small stroll or sit and admire the great surroundings at camp listening to a babbling brook!
Dushanbe and Samarkand either side of the trek are wonderful cities, although ve ry hot in the summer so be prepared.
Tips - take your own camping mat as you do camp on hard ground a couple of nights, temperature does drop when the sun goes down but no need for gloves or hat, we were provided with water filter bottles to fill up from glacial streams along the trek.
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By Matthew from UK | 30 July 2024
An amazing trip in beautiful mountains.

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By Angela from Chester | 22 August 2023
Great trip
★ ★ ★ ★
This was a great trek through beautiful mountains. The area is still not on the top of the list for most trekkers, which makes it a great place to go because it is undiscovered and uncrowded. We only saw a few other hikers the entire time we were there, especially during the first week of the trip which was very untravelled. The trip had some of the most beautiful campsites I have ever had, with gorgeous mountain views, and usually next to a crystal clear lake or river. The local crew was amazin g and worked incredibly hard, and our guide Jose was great. All of the food problems referenced by earlier travelers have been resolved, and our food was very good and plentiful. My least favorite part of this trip was the heat. Although KE's guidance indicates it will be 20-25 in the mountains, it was much warmer than that, which made conditions challenging. When we got to Uzbekistan, the heat was stifling and unfortunately dampened our desire to venture out and explore. If you go, bring some light, breezy clothes and whatever else you usually use to stay cool. We spent as much time as possible dunking our hats, buffs, and whatever else we had in the rivers so the water could cool us while we walked.
By Leslie from Telluride | 01 September 2019
A wonderful experience in a fascinating country
★ ★ ★ ★ ★

The camping accommodation, arrangements and food were all excellent. All needs catered for. The crew were great, always helpful, and the leader went out of her way to sort out any problems. I would recomment going to Tajikistan before it becomes too popular with trekkers from Europe.

By Judith from Northwood | 28 August 2019
Excellent adventure
★ ★ ★ ★ ★

A great trek with superb and varied food throughout with fresh fruit and veg every day. Good catering for vegetarians as well. Lots of snacks in between. We were looked after really well by Danny, our cook, Faysaboy our interpreter, Nasridin our guide and Natalie our UK leader. They all worked really hard to ensure we had everything we wanted and went beyond their duties on several occasions. Fabulous walking and incredible locations for lunch and camping. Samarkand stay was equally fabulous.

By Meenakshi from Berkhamsted | 22 August 2019
Fann Mountains, Jul-Aug 2018

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By Bruce from Victor | 17 December 2018
Fann Mountains & Samarkand

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By John from Telford | 02 October 2017
Wow! Wild unspoilt high mountain trekking as it used to be 25+ years ago
★ ★ ★ ★
If you want to experience wild unspoilt high mountain trekking as it used to be done ago get yourself out to the Fann Mountains. Amazing scenery, virtually no other trekkers, unspoilt trails, mind boggling mountain vistas with mega rock slabs, beautiful lakes, some challenging walking especially on high optional pass day, & almost guaranteed dry sunny hot weather every day. Sightseeing in Samarkand finishes off the trip very nicely; we were just blown away with the majestic buildings wit h their beautiful blue domes, minarets & exquisite ceramic designs.
By John from Telford | 24 September 2017
Dramatic mountains, and amazing monuments in Samarkand
★ ★ ★ ★

The Fann Mountains have dramatic scenery and beautiful blue lakes. They are well worth visiting despite being fairly hot (most of my cold weather gear never got used) and having quite a few horseflies! The staff were extremely friendly and likeable and we saw few other trekkers. Neil did a first class job of looking after the group and was excellent company as well. Samarkand is hugely impressive (though very hot in August) - and in fact I stayed on to explore more of Uzbekistan.

By Martin from London | 25 August 2017
Outstanding trekking in Fann Mountains
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
This was an amazing trip to Tajikistan and Uzbekistan. The trip started with 11 days of trekking through the incredible Fann Mountains. The trekking is tough but achievable for anyone with a good level of fitness. The scenery was great - every pass brought a new exclamation of 'wow' from the group. The local team were super friendly and helpful and our leader Neil was everything that you would want from a leader - helpful, informative and a lot of fun.

If you are after culture, the trip to Samarkand should be more than enough. The architecture is beautiful and our local guide was very informative.

I would thoroughly recommend this trip!
By Deborah from Bath | 11 August 2017
An excellant trekking tour
★ ★ ★ ★ ★

Was a great / intersting trip with a great team. Everything was fine - nice landescape / nice people !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

By Andreas from BERLIN | 29 September 2015
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By William from UK | 25 September 2015
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  • The Ultimate Fann Mountains Trek
    Without Flights
  • Departure Reference: UFT /01/25/
  • This trip begins on Mon 14 Jul and ends on Sat 26 Jul
  • This departure is available to book. Secure your place today with a deposit of US$475
  • Single Supplement Price: US$495 - Includes the 2 nights in Samarkand and the 2 nights in Dushanbe (1st night pre-tour). Single rooms are not available in the homestay on trek.
  • Single Tent Upgrade: US$95
  • Download Trip Notes

More Information

  • The Ultimate Fann Mountains Trek
    Without Flights
  • Departure Reference: UFT /02/25/
  • This trip begins on Mon 28 Jul and ends on Sat 9 Aug
  • This departure is guaranteed. Secure your place today with a deposit of US$475
  • Single Supplement Price: US$495 - Includes the 2 nights in Samarkand and the 2 nights in Dushanbe (1st night pre-tour). Single rooms are not available in the homestay on trek.
  • Single Tent Upgrade: US$95
  • Download Trip Notes

More Information

  • The Ultimate Fann Mountains Trek
    Without Flights
  • Departure Reference: UFT /03/25/
  • This trip begins on Mon 11 Aug and ends on Sat 23 Aug
  • This departure is guaranteed. Secure your place today with a deposit of US$475
  • Single Supplement Price: US$495 - Includes the 2 nights in Samarkand and the 2 nights in Dushanbe (1st night pre-tour). Single rooms are not available in the homestay on trek.
  • Single Tent Upgrade: US$95
  • Download Trip Notes

More Information

  • The Ultimate Fann Mountains Trek
    Without Flights
  • Departure Reference: UFT /04/25/
  • This trip begins on Mon 1 Sep and ends on Sat 13 Sep
  • This departure is guaranteed. Secure your place today with a deposit of US$475
  • Single Supplement Price: US$495 - Includes the 2 nights in Samarkand and the 2 nights in Dushanbe (1st night pre-tour). Single rooms are not available in the homestay on trek.
  • Single Tent Upgrade: US$95
  • Download Trip Notes

Land Only Information

The LAND ONLY dates and prices are for the itinerary joining in Dushanbe (Tajikistan) and departing from Samarkand (Uzbekistan). For clients making their own flight arrangements, Dushanbe International Airport is the most convenient for transfers to the group hotel. Please refer to Joining Arrangements and Tansfers for further details.

Flights SHOULD NOT be booked until you have received your booking confirmation and the departure is showing 'Guaranteed to Run' or 'Limited'.

ZEN_HOLIDAY_DATES_PRICES_LAND_ONLY_USD_NOTICE

BOOK WITH KE CONFIDENCE - No surcharge guarantee

The price of our holidays can change depending on a variety of factors but unlike some other tour operators, KE have undertaken to guarantee the Land Only price of your holiday will not change after you have booked. The price when you book is the price you will pay, whether you are booking for this year or the next. Book early to avoid any tour price increases, get the best flight prices and take advantage of our 'No Surcharge Guarantee'.

KE Adventure is a fully bonded tour operator. We hold an ATOL license (No: 2808) and are bonded with ABTA (Membership No: W4341)


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