Tajikistan Fann Mountain Trek Tour
Soaring Peaks & Epic Trails in Central Asia
- Available: June, July, August
- Activity: Level 4
- Accommodations: WIlderness Camping, Rustic Lodging, Comfortable Hotels
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Group Size:
4-16 Guests
Min Age: 14
Join the June 23, 2023 departure for a special Follow the Leader with Sergio Fitch Watkins
Highlights
- Take a break from civilization on this epic 9-day trek in the remote Fann Mountains
- Admire majestic peaks over 16,000 feet, including Chimtarga, Bodkhona, Mirali and Energia
- Explore Tajikistan's Buddhist and Sogdian roots, and over 1,500 years of history
Itinerary
Arrival in Dushanbe
Day 1
On arrival in Dushanbe, the capital of Tajikistan, your MT Sobek trip leader will meet you at Dushanbe Airport for a transfer to your hotel for a good rest.
Accommodation: Hyatt Regency Dushanbe
Explore Dushanbe & the Imposing Hissar Fortress
Day 2
In the morning, set out to explore Tajikistan's capital. Visit the Museum of Antiquities, home of the 43-foot Buddha in Nirvana statue. Next, drive to the Bukhara Emirate beck's palace, the Hissar Fortress, continuously inhabited since the Stone Age but demolished repeatedly due to its strategic hilltop position. Later in Dushanbe, roam the buzzy Green Bazar, and visit the main square with one of the highest flagpoles in the world.
Accommodation: Hyatt Regency Dushanbe
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Discover Sogdian Culture in Penjikent
Day 3
Travel to Penjikent, once a flourishing city of the pre-Islamic Sogdian culture that thrived between 5th and 8th centuries. Ponder its past as a superbly fortified city and a trading center while roaming the ruins of Old Penjikent, learn about 'the father of Persian poetry' at the Rudaki Museum, and feel the pulse of everyday life at the bazaar. In the afternoon, head out to the Seven Lakes, a cascading string of lakes that is your gateway to the Fann Mountains.
Accommodation: Guesthouse Jumaboy
Transportation: 180-mile full-day private transfer (with cultural touring)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Explore the Fann Mountains On Foot
Day 4
Today, start your venture into the Fanns. A short transfer brings you to the trailhead by the azure Marguzor Lake, the highest of 'the seven beauties of Shing' - a string of crystal-clear lakes and a top hiking destination in the region. Take in the idyllic mountain sceneries as you cross the Tavosang Pass (11,319 feet) and descend to the foothills of Munora Pass that you will take on tomorrow. Relax in the evening at a camp by the crisp Tavosang River at an altitude of 8,038 feet.
Accommodation: MT Sobek Camp—Tajikistan Fann Mountains
Activity: 7 hours/8.5 miles trekking with an elevation gain of 3,825' and an elevation loss of 2,805'
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Follow Scenic Trails to Munora Pass
Day 5
Rise and shine for another day of marvelous views and crisp air trekking over the scenic Munora Pass. At 11,483 feet, it sets the perfect stage for soaking up the region's dramatic mountain landscapes dotted with sky-high peaks like Krasnaya Moskva or Dugdon. Enjoy a picnic lunch along the way, then make your descent to the Archamaidan River where you will camp overnight.
Accommodation: MT Sobek Camp—Tajikistan Fann Mountains
Activity: 7-8 hours/10 miles trekking with an elevation gain of 3,445' and an elevation loss of 3,314'
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Descend from Archamaidan River & Homestay in Zimtut
Day 6
Enjoy a day of downhill trekking with a picnic lunch along the way. From Archamaidan River, descend down to the mountain road that sits at its junction with Amshut River. Here, you will meet up with drivers for a short transfer to the remote village of Zimtut (5,095 feet). This modest settlement in a rugged, barren landscape is the place to take in the famed Tajik hospitality, and enjoy a relaxed evening in a local homestay, sipping tea.
Accommodation: Homestay Zimtut
Activity: 4-5 hours/6 miles trekking with an elevation loss of 2,264'
Transportation: 10-mile private van transfer
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Cross the Igrok Pass to the Emerald Chukurak Lake
Day 7
Hike on a path that meanders through wildflower meadows to reach the Igrok Pass, where a magnificent amphitheater of mountains opens up. Take some time to marvel at the dazzling views, then descend on a steep trail, passing through shepherd settlements and juniper forests to Chukurak, the largest of the three lakes in the Chukurak gorge. Take in its emerald green waters that sparkle in the midst of an open valley. Set up camp and stay overnight.
Accommodation: MT Sobek Camp—Tajikistan Fann Mountains
Activity: 6 hours/ 8 miles trekking with an elevation gain of 2,297' and an elevation loss of 148'
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Discover Kulikalon Lakes
Day 8
Today, expect steep, zig-zag trekking over the Chukurak Pass (10,335 feet) that rewards with spellbinding panoramas of the Kulikalon Bowl. The Kulikalon Lakes that dot this vast depression are some of the Fann's most gorgeous sceneries. The glacial lakes, set amidst rugged slopes covered in juniper, are the place to keep an eye out for birds like the Himalayan snowcocks or falcons, as the area has been proclaimed an Important Bird Area. Camp near Bibijanat, an elongated lake surrounded with a forest.
Accommodation: MT Sobek Camp—Tajikistan Fann Mountains
Activity: 5 hours/5 miles trekking with an elevation gain of 1,132'
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Trek to Alouddin Pass with Views of Chapdara Mountain
Day 9
After a hearty breakfast, continue on to explore the Kulikalon Lakes. Hike to Dushokha Lake, the highest in the depression. Towered by the imposing Mirali Wall, it is the perfect vantage point for glacier-gazing. Power up for the Alouddin Pass (12,238 feet), a strenuous trek with direct views of the 17,000-foot Chapdara peak and the gorge of the Chapdara River. Down in the valley, find Alouddin Lakes, a group of emerald pools surrounded by soaring peaks. Set up camp and watch the colors change as the sun descends.
Accommodation: MT Sobek Camp—Tajikistan Fann Mountains
Activity: 7-8 hours/8 miles trekking with an elevation gain and loss of 3,445'
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Hike to Lake Mutnow & Marvel at Chimtarga Peak
Day 10
Today, rise high above juniper forests and enjoy a splendid showcase of peaks over 16,000 feet. As you make your way from Alouddin Lakes, marvel at hanging glaciers, rare birches, and the grand peaks of Kaznok, Zamok, Energia and the tallest of them all, the 18,008-foot Chimtarga. Continue to Lake Mutnoe, unique among the Fann Lakes for its tea color that comes from the tributary water running through forests and collecting tannins from the vegetation.
Accommodation: MT Sobek Camp—Tajikistan Fann Mountains
Activity: 4-5 hours/ 4.5 miles trekking with an elevation gain of 2,625'
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Trek to Kaznok, the Highest Pass of the Trip
Day 11
Expect a day of adventurous and strenuous hiking as you take on this trip's highest pass, the Kaznok, at 13,255 feet. Soak up some of the most stunning views of the Fanns, and enjoy clear sights of Chimtarga. Then descend down into the verdant Arg Valley to set up camp for the night.
Accommodation: MT Sobek Camp—Tajikistan Fann Mountains
Activity: 7-8 hours/8 miles trekking with an elevation gain of 1,444' and an elevation loss of 2,756'
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Be Mesmerized by Iskanderkul Lake
Day 12
On your final day of trekking, take in the last panoramas of the spectacular Fanns as you descend from Arg Valley to the mountain village of Sarytag (7,874 feet). In this small and remote settlement, meet up with your drivers for a transfer to Iskanderkul, a turquoise glacial lake that is the poster-image for the Fann massif. Stay at a local hotel, enjoy a shower, and some well-deserved downtime.
Accommodation: Hotel Iskanderkul
Activity: 7 hours/ 9.5miles trekking with an elevation loss of 2,625'
Transportation: 1-hour private van transfer
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Return to Dushanbe & Enjoy a Farewell Dinner
Day 13
Today, transfer to Dushanbe and enjoy some time to yourself in the afternoon, to relax and pack, or take in some more of the capital city buzz. In the evening, meet up with your group for a farewell dinner.
Accommodation: Hyatt Regency Dushanbe
Transportation: 3-hour private van transfer
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Depart from Dushanbe
Day 14
Transfer to the airport and fly home.
Dates & Prices
- 2023
- 2024
- Go Private
- Go Custom
- Inclusions
2023
Scheduled Dates
The earlier you book, the more choice of available dates you’ll have and once you book, your price is guaranteed.
- $5,095 price per person dbl occ+$350 single supplement
Special Details
Special Follow the Leader departure with Sergio Fitch Watkins.
AvailableConfirmed - $3,795 price per person dbl occ+$350 single supplementAvailable
- $3,795 price per person dbl occ+$350 single supplementAvailable
- $3,795 price per person dbl occ+$350 single supplementAvailable
- $3,795 price per person dbl occ+$350 single supplementAvailable
2024
Scheduled Dates
The earlier you book, the more choice of available dates you’ll have and once you book, your price is guaranteed.
- $3,995 price per person dbl occ+$350 single supplementAvailable
- $3,995 price per person dbl occ+$350 single supplementAvailable
- $3,995 price per person dbl occ+$350 single supplementAvailable
- $3,995 price per person dbl occ+$350 single supplementAvailable
- $3,995 price per person dbl occ+$350 single supplementAvailable
Go Private
Go Private
Gather your favorite travel companions to share an MT Sobek adventure on an easy-to-book Private departure.
Call or email us to get the ball rolling.
*Private trips require a 25% non-refundable deposit.
Private Trip Pricing:
2023 Pricing
2 to 3 guests from $3,995 per person double occupancy
4 to 5 guests from $3,895 per person double occupancy
6 to 16 guests from $3,795 per person double occupancy
2024 Pricing
2 to 3 guests from $4,495 per person double occupancy
4 to 5 guests from $4,295 per person double occupancy
6 to 9 guests from $4,195 per person double occupancy
10 guests from $3,995 per person double occupancy
Additional Costs:
Private pricing excludes potential additional costs such as internal airfare, single supplement, or any park fees that may be required for the trip.
*Private trips require a 25% non-refundable deposit.
Make Your Own Dates in These Months
-
June, July, August
Go Custom
Create Your Very Own Adventure
Dreaming of an adventure designed exclusively for you? With insider access and decades of experience, our travel experts create custom tailored adventures that are perfect for families, couples, and large groups. MT Sobek's custom adventures are designed to our exacting standards and led by our award-winning adventure guides.
When to start planning? Earlier is always better when designing a custom trip. More time allows for better availability of preferred accommodations, guides and your desired activities. Ideally, start the conversation with us at least 6 months before you want to travel. If you are looking for a custom trip that departs within three months, chances are greatly diminished in securing requested accommodations and the best guides.
*Custom trips require a 25% non-refundable deposit once an itinerary is agreed upon.
Start PlanningInclusions
Price Includes
- Expertise and services of our experienced adventure guides
- All accommodations as noted in the itinerary
- All breakfasts, almost all lunches and dinners as noted in the itinerary
- Snacks and water between meals
- Additional regional guides and experts on many trips
- Comprehensive Trip Planner with detailed pre-trip information
- Private guided tours at historic sites, museums, wineries and other select attractions as noted in the itinerary
- Special events and other select attractions as mentioned in the itinerary
- All gratuities at hotels and restaurants
- Equipment and experienced guides for activities as described in the itinerary
- Park and other entry fees (unless otherwise noted)
- Fares for trains, ferries and other modes of travel as listed in the itinerary
- Select transfers as mentioned in the itinerary
- Baggage transfers and porterage
Price Does Not Include
- International airfare, airport taxes, and excess baggage fees
- Alcoholic beverages (MT Sobek provides wine at select events)
- Gratuities for MT Sobek guides and guide-drivers
- Travel Protection Program
- Personal expenses
Need help picking your next adventure? Call us to answer your questions.
Your Guides
The best people to immerse you in a destination are the ones who live there, which is why we feature local Adventure Guides on our trips. Here are a few that you might meet on this adventure.

Bobojon Khudoyberdiev
Bobojon is from Panjakent in the Sogd region of Tajikistan. He has a degree from the Tajik State Institute of Languages as an English interpreter and has been guiding for over 10 years. He thrives on showing travelers as much as he can about Tajikistan's amazing people and culture. Bobojon is responsible, talented and boasts a great sense of humor. He is always looking to increase his knowledge and learning about the different cultures, peoples and traditions around the world.

Gayrat Shakarbekov
Gayrat hails from the Ishkashim region, on the border of Tajikistan and Afghanistan, in the Pamir Mountains. His interest in guiding developed as a child, as he spent much of his spare time helping tourists in the region. He has since guided in Tajikistan, Afghanistan and Kyrgyzstan for over 10 years. In his free time, he enjoys reading, listening to music and trekking! Gayrat's passion is learning from and making friends with everyone he guides since he believes that friendship has no borders.

Sergio Fitch Watkins
Sergio is a legendary trekking guide with over 40 years of experience and 300 trips to his name! Besides leading our expeditions in Ecuador, Bolivia, Peru, and Argentina's Aconcagua, he also loves to lead some of our more challenging treks in Nepal and Peru. His recent expeditions include leading our 50th Anniversary Base Camp Trek, Chile's Dientes de Navarino mountains, and an epic hiking adventure in the Dolomites. Sergio has acquired a loyal following, and is one of our most respected guides.
Activity Level
This trip is rated activity level 4. On this trek you will be hiking 5 to 8 hours a day for 9 days, mostly at elevations above 8,000 feet. The trails are moderately difficult and rocky over the Kaznok Pass (13,255 feet). You need to be in very good physical condition and have similar previous experience of hiking and sleeping at high altitudes.
Learn more about activity levels here.
Activity Snapshot
Day 4
7 hours/8.5 miles trekking with an elevation gain of 3,825' and an elevation loss of 2,805'
Day 5
7-8 hours/10 miles trekking with an elevation gain of 3,445' and an elevation loss of 3,314'
Day 6
4-5 hours/6 miles trekking with an elevation loss of 2,264'
Day 7
6 hours/ 8 miles trekking with an elevation gain of 2,297' and an elevation loss of 148'
Day 8
5 hours/5 miles trekking with an elevation gain of 1,132'
Day 9
7-8 hours/8 miles trekking with an elevation gain and loss of 3,445'
Day 10
4-5 hours/ 4.5 miles trekking with an elevation gain of 2,625'
Day 11
7-8 hours/8 miles trekking with an elevation gain of 1,444' and an elevation loss of 2,756'
Day 12
7 hours/ 9.5miles trekking with an elevation loss of 2,625'
Accommodations
Remote mountain camps, coupled with a comfortable hotel in Dushanbe, and rustic lodging along the way
Weather
The Fanns receive less than 10 inches of rain per year. Daytime highs in summer months range from 64ºF to 77ºF; nighttime lows are between 37ºF and 55ºF.
FAQs
Where do I fly to for this trip?
You will fly roundtrip to Dushanbe, Tajikistan. The best connections are on Turkish Airlines.
Who will meet me on arrival?
Our MT Sobek representative will meet you at the Dushanbe Airport.
What is the highest elevation on this trip?
Kaznok Pass at 13,255'
Do I need a visa for this trip?
No, Americans can travel visa-free to Tajikistan! If you are another nationality, please check with the Tajikistan Embassy.
Do I need to bring my own sleeping bag and pad for this trip?
Yes. We recommend a rating of 25°F to 30°F; keep in mind your own personal warmth and comfort when choosing your sleeping bag and pad.
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