I will be in the Central Asian region and have time to take a one week trip in early June and a two week trip in mid-September. My primary interest would be trekking, but I realize 1 ) 1 week isn't much time to really get out to the Pamirs or Fan mountains for a proper trek, and 2 ) mid-September isn't the ideal trekking season. With that in mind, what countries (and treks) would you recommend if I am trying to be based out of a main city (which I can fly in and out of) in June and make day trips; and then the best medium distance routes (5-10 days) which are still accessible in mid September? I am primarily looking at Kazakstan, Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan.
Right now I am thinking Kazakstan for a week in June (treks around Almaty - which is easy to fly in and out of) and then Kyrgyzstan in mid-septsember, but not sure if that is already too late for long distance hiking in Kyrgyzstan.
Suggestions?
-TBri
Where are you going ? Which country ?
It will be better to hike in the same country.
I've only been in Tajikistan and Kyrgyzstan. You have plenty of opportunities there.
Michel
That is my question, I will fly in and out of Central Asia twice - regardless - so there is no advantage (aside from familiarity) to staying in the same country. I was thinking Kazakstan in June and Kyrgyzstan in September. This site seems to suggest trekking season goes until October:
https://silkroadexplore.com/blog/weather-in-kyrgyzstan/
-TBri
I have no idea about Kazakhstan but it can be an option.
Tajikistan is the less touristic one but it's up to you.
Michel
If you fly to Dushanbe, a trek to the Fan mountains is really nearby, you won't lose much time. It also has a better climate than Kyrgyzstan.
Otherwise, flying to Bishkek, the Ala Archa national park is just out of town. Going trekking near Karakol probably means 2 days lost in transport.
How is Dushanbe during Ramadan? And how long are the treks in the Fan mountains?
Do you recommend against Kazakstan (and treks around Almaty)?
-TBri
Dushanbe, Tajikistan and all the countries of Central Asia where republics of the former USSR for nearly 70 years.
You are far away from Saudi Arabia, Algeria or Iran during Ramadan.
It will not be a problem at all.
Michel
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