Central Asia. The 5 -Stans. A region of wild mountains, hospitable nomads, and endless bumpy marthrutka rides. It’s one of the best hiking regions in Asia, or even the world for that matter, but don’t expect much in the way of infrastructure or signage – prepare to be self-reliant and sort out all the logistics yourself.
Pick up most recent Lonely Planet: Central Asia guidebook to start planning your trip.
Kyrgyzstan: Belagorka Waterfall The Belagorka Waterfall is the highest in the Kyrgyz ridge of the Alatoo Mountains, the range immediately surrounding Bishkek and the Chuy Valley. It’s a pleasant, easy daytrip from Bishkek and so remains popular as a dayhike from Bishkek – though more-so with local groups than foreign […]
Tajikistan: Mogiyon to Haft Kul Trek Таджикистан: Могион – Хафт-Куль Located in the far west of the Fann Mountains, the Mogiyon to Haft Kul Trek combines the off the beaten path village of Mogiyon with a classic Fanns destination in Haft Kul. The Mogiyon-Haft Kul trek is perfect for those […]
Kyrgyzstan: Song Kol Lake from Kyzart Pass Кыргызстан: Озеро Соң Көл с перевала Кызарт Ascending a mountain pass on foot or horseback and seeing Song Kol Lake for the first time spread out in all its glory is one of the most memorable experience that trekking in Kyrgyzstan has to […]
Kyrgyzstan: Alakol Lake Trek Кыргызстан: Озеро Алаколь Alakol Lake is quite likely the most popular overnight trek in Kyrgyzstan. An incredible mountain lake, backed by mesmerizing rugged peaks and a glacier that drops right down to the shore. It’s an unbelievably beautiful hike, made better by a handful of yurt […]
Kazakhstan: Aksai Canyon Monastery Казахстан: Монастырь Аксайский каньон The short and easy Aksai Canyon Monastery walk is every bit as much a cultural experience as a natural one. The small Russian Orthodox Serafimo-Feognostovskiy Monastery makes a great dayhike destination for families or casual hikers, combing some pretty and gentle landscapes […]
Kyrgyzstan: At Jailoo Lake A tiny alpine lake with big mountain views, At Jailoo Lake is an offbeat alternative to the already offbeat Enilchek Valley, but one with big payoffs for lovers of beautiful peaks and peaceful nature. This entire region of Issyk-Kol is hard to reach and travel, but […]