Walking into the Tian Shan, one extraordinary valley at a time.
A mountain journey begins long before the first pass. It starts with choosing a route that fits your experience, allowing time for changing conditions and finding a guide you can communicate with.
The valleys around Karakol are a natural starting point for multi-day walks. Forest gives way to summer pasture, and the scale of the mountains gradually reveals itself.
Plan conservatively. High passes are seasonal, river conditions change and remote routes require suitable equipment. Discuss your experience and expectations honestly with your guide.
Original editorial planning content. Representative landscape photography; see the credits page for exact locations.
