Trekking Tour in Tajikistan

Most people choose to fly to Dushanbe with Turkish Airlines, arriving very early in the morning. You will be met at the airport and transferred to the hotel where you can check in right away. You will have time for a rest, breakfast, and shower after your long flight before meeting your guide and fellow travelers in the hotel lobby at 11:00 AM.

After introduction and lunch we visit ancient fortress at Hisor, just outside Dushanbe, dating back to the 7th century. It was once the residence of the Emir of Bukhara’s deputy and reflects his status. Returning to Dushanbe, we take a city tour which encompasses the city’s main sights: Rudaki Park, the National Library, the White House and the National State Seal. Just as impressive is what is currently the second tallest freestanding flagpole in the world – after Jeddah – a whopping 165 meters high with a flag measuring thirty by sixty meters.

Hotel Atlas or similar.

Heading out of the Tajik capital this morning, we drive through the Varzob gorge – weekend getaway for locals from Dushanbe. Moving on, we climb steadily from the foothills into the Fann Mountains. These picturesque peaks form part of the lofty Zarafshan ridge. As passengers, you will be able to gaze uninterrupted at their beauty while someone else takes care of the driving, allowing your mind to wander and the stress of your regular life to fall away like the valley slopes by the side of the road.

Around 1 or 2 PM we plan to reach Penjakent, just in time for lunch.  You get the chance to taste a famous Central Asian dish – Plov (rice with meat and carrots). In Tajikistan, it is said that the best Plov (or Pilaf) is made in Penjikent. After delicious lunch, we will check in at the hotel before exploring the town.

Penjikent translates as “the city of five villages” and is located on the verdant Zeravshan river valley. Dating from 5th century, Penjikent was a thriving regional hub on the Great Silk Road. We visit the local market of the town, the Mosque and the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Sarazm (ruins from 4th – 2nd millenia BC).

Hotel Umariyon or similar.

Today it is time to hike uphill again as we will cross Ghuytan pass (3000m) to reach Chukurak lake (2450m). After a short rest at the lake we hike half an hour down to Artuch Alpinist camp, where you will be able to sleep in twin rooms with private bathroom and shower.

Overnight in Artuch Camp (twin/ single rooms, with private bathroom and shower), 2160m altitude.

Today marks the end of your tour. We will drive you to the airport in time for your flight home. We hope you have enjoyed this tour and will return soon to discover the other fascinating destinations that Central Asia has to offer.