Kyrgyzstan, Asia

Ski Touring Expedition in Kyrgyzstan, the Switzerland of Asia!

Kyrgyzstan, known as the Switzerland of Asia, is surrounded by Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, Kazakhstan, and China.

Nearly 80% of the country is encompassed by mountains, including notable peaks like Pik Lenin, making it a popular destination for mountaineering enthusiasts. For those interested in ski mountaineering, a discipline that has been gaining popularity in recent years, there are entire regions with excellent snow coverage and slopes that provide an ideal setting for a dream skiing experience.

In Kyrgyzstan, you can find yurts that offer comfortable accommodations for various activities such as downhill skiing, freeriding, and heli-skiing. Others cater to the adventurous spirit of ski mountaineering, allowing you to explore remote and untouched valleys. Prepare to be pleasantly surprised by the unexpected comfort found within these yurts: comfortable temperatures, gourmet cuisine, spacious common areas, and even saunas. It's a five-star treatment!

During our trip, we will visit the Terksey Mountains and Karakol Lake – Jergalan area, which boast wide valleys perfect for ski touring. These areas are less frequented by the growing mass of ski mountaineers, providing us with the opportunity to venture into lesser-explored valleys accessible only by foot or snowmobile. The experience of skiing in untouched, knee-deep snow will be unforgettable!

We will be welcomed by the warm and hospitable local population, sharing yurts with them to fully immerse ourselves in their rich culture ( you will be accommodated in a yurt with a maximum 4 skiers in total)

To participate in this trip, it is necessary to have a technical level and experience in ski mountaineering. Adequate training is important, and we strongly recommend using wide skis ( 105mm minimum) as you will typically encounter large amounts of powder snow. Splitboarders are welcome but must be on our Advanced Skill level and bring your own equipment. 

Our excursions will involve average altitude differences of 800/1400 meters and will be classified as BSA difficulty levels. We will embark on day trips, returning to our yurt or guest house in the valley to be greeted with delicious food and drinks prepared by our new Kyrgyz friends.

Although the mountains we will ascend do not feature glaciers, there may be hard snow conditions on the summit shoulders where the use of crampons could be recommended for reaching the summit.

Day Itinerary

  • Fly to Bishkek – Kyrgyzstan

    Multiple airlines provide flights to Bishkek. We should plan to arrive in Bishkek early in the morning for the meeting.

  • Karakol

    We will gather in Bishkek at 10:00 a.m.

    Following a brief orientation with the guide, we will travel by taxi to Karakol, where we will spend the night.

    The journey will take approximately 6 to 8 hours, with intermittent stops for sightseeing and refreshments.

     

  • Yrdyk

    From Karakol, our next destination will be the picturesque Yrdyk valley, where we will spend the upcoming days. To truly experience the culture and tranquility of these serene valleys, we will reside in charming yurts.

    During our time here, we will have a wide range of excursion options, catering to different durations and levels of difficulty. After each adventure, we will return to our yurt, where we will be greeted with a delightful snack. Additionally, we will have the luxury of taking showers or enjoying a rejuvenating sauna before indulging in a delicious dinner accompanied by an aperitif.

    These days will be filled with immersive encounters with nature and local traditions, ensuring both enjoyment and utmost comfort throughout our journey.

  • Jyrgalan

    Our next stop will be Jyrgalan, an old mining town that has recently gained recognition for its natural beauty. During the journey, we will make a visit to the charming town of Karakol, where we can explore the lively bazaar and admire the local mosque.

    Jyrgalan is renowned for its wide valleys, which offer serene hiking trails in the summer and transform into perfect terrain for ski mountaineering during the winter months, thanks to abundant snowfall and cold temperatures.

    Each day, we will have the opportunity to explore different destinations, following well-established routes or venturing off the beaten path to create new tracks along the gentle slopes of the surrounding mountains.

    At the end of our adventures, we will find comfortable Guest Houses awaiting us, providing a refreshing retreat where we can unwind, share our impressions, and exchange experiences of the remarkable journeys we have had in these remarkable regions.

  • Bishkek

    Our journey will bring us back to Bishkek, the capital of Kyrgyzstan. Here, we will have the opportunity to explore the city and its attractions. After a delightful dinner together, we will bid farewell and look forward to our next adventure.

    We will be accommodated at a comfortable hotel in Bishkek.

  • On the final day of our trip, after enjoying a hearty breakfast, it will be time to bid farewell and embark on our journey back home.

2025

Dates

Price

Sun 09 Feb
- Wed 19 Feb
£2495 Book
Flexible From £2,495 PRIVATE GROUP Enquire

The price includes:

  • B&B hotel accommodation in Bishkek for the first and last night
  • HB accommodation in the yurt and guest house (maximum 4 people per yurt)
  • Local transfers
  • Local guide assistance for logistics during transfers and as required
  • IFMGA fees and expenses for the duration of the trip
  • Unlimited food and beer in yurts
  • Access to sauna

The price does not include:

  • A round-trip journey to Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan
  • Lunches and dinners in Bishkek
  • Beverages and additional expenses incurred at the yurts and guest houses
  • Recommended personal insurance covering accidents, trip cancellations, and baggage loss
  • Any items or services not explicitly mentioned as "included in the price."
  • Insurance
  • Equipment hire (you must bring a sleeping bag with a minimum comfort rating of +5°C)

 

 

 

 

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We accept the following payment methods

 

 

This is an extensive list of the equipment you will need if you are coming on one of our Day Ski Touring trips

During the trip, you will be staying most nights in a comfortable chalet or hotel accommodation on a half board or B&B basis. You will just need to carry a daypack with your avalanche safety equipment and a few personal items.

  • During this trip, you must have fat skis of 105mm or wider or splitboard.

    Snowboards and 95/98 touring skis will not be suitable.

    We recommend bringing the kit with you as it may not be possible to hire it locally. 

  • For all touring trips it is essential you ski with an all-mountain/freeride type skis, ski touring boots and ski touring bindings. If you have your own skis but they do not have ski touring bindings then you will need to rent skis. The same applies if you have downhill ski boots, you will need to rent ski touring boots.

    Skis

    This winter our lead guides are using Elan skis. Praised by magazine testers and professional skiers alike for its unique blend of lightweight performance, the Ripstick 96 is proven to be the ultimate freeride ski in all snow conditions. The Ripstick 106 is the ultimate freeride ski for any terrain. From boundary line to the base lodge, peak to the parking lot, and trailhead to tailgate this ski excels in all conditions. The new Ripstick Tour 94 is designed on a wider platform, enabling the skier to float better, ski faster, and turn easier in backcountry conditions.

    It is built to blend high performance at a low weight, for the perfect mix of freeride downhill performance and efficient ascending capability. With Ripstick Tour 94, the confidence to conquer long ascents and charge challenging descents is the name of the game.

    There are many ‘all-mountain/freeride’ skis to choose from and we also recommend skis from Salomon, Dynastar, Movement, Black Crows, Trab Skis, Scott and Volkl.  Look for a ski that is the right size for your height, typically the tip of the ski should be somewhere around your nose height.  As for the width of the ski or “side cut” a mid-fat ski – 90-110mm under the foot is a good place to start; this offers plenty of flotation off-piste while remaining suitable for day tours and they should also handle reasonably well on piste and mixed terrain.

    Elan Skis: www.elanskis.com

    Dynastar Skis:  www.dynastar.com

    Movement Skis: www.movementskis.com                                       

    Black Crows Skis: www.blackcrows-skis.com/

    Trab Skis: www.skitrab.com/en-us/

    Scott Skis: http://www.scott-sports.com

    Volkl Skis: http://www.voelkl.com

     

    There are plenty of other great skis to choose from so if you’re planning on buying skis for ski touring or general skiing and have any questions do not hesitate to call us, or Lockwoods, to discuss the options available.

    If you are planning on buying skis for ski touring and general skiing and have any questions do not hesitate to call us to discuss the options available to you.

    Boots

    It is essential that you have ski touring boots for these trips as walking uphill is much more comfortable in these types of boots with a walk mode and great flex; a dedicated touring boot or a hybrid hike & ride boot is best. 

    Our guides are using ROXA boots. They recommend R3 ski boots, the lightest high-performance alpine ski boot in its class. The 110 TI is geared for big mountain chargers who may use “Tech” and/or Alpine bindings and often hike or skin to find their lines. The RX Tours is targeted toward skiers who prefer to blaze their own trail and leave the lift lines behind.

    Scarpa has led the way in touring boots for many years but they have been joined by other manufacturers like Dynafit, Salomon, Scott, Black Diamond, Dalbello and K2; all producing their own versions of ski touring boot.

    ROXAR3 and RX Tour ski boots provide a range of models suitable for all sorts of terrain and snow conditions. It is a family-owned company located in Italy, focused on advanced materials, and ultralight compounds and one of the first companies to use

    • Scarpa’s Freedom boots are their Hybrid offerings, with great ski performance, a walk mode and Vibram sole. Their Maestrale (men’s) and Gea (women’s) boots are also highly recommended.
    • The Scott Celeste and Cosmo boots have stood the test of time and are good all-around choices.
    • Salomon’s Quest Max series offer boots with a walk mode in various flex’s with good downhill performance.
    • Dynafit offer the Mercury or Vulcan boots plus a range of lightweight options like the TLT6.

    The best of the rest are:
    Fischer - Transalp
    Black Diamond – Quadrant and Factor
    K2 – Pinnacle boot
    Dalbello – Lupo or Sherpa
    Langue – XT series offer a ski boot with a walk mode in various flex options

    Boot Liners
    These days many manufacturers offer ‘thermo-fit¹ liners as standard equipment. You may also want to consider a custom liner as these are heated and molded to your foot and boot for a perfect fit. They can make all the difference especially if you have trouble finding really comfortable ‘off-the-shelf’ boots. Zipfit liners are a great option for anyone seeking total customisation in fit and comfort. They will replace the original liner.

    Custom Footbeds
    Essential kit – to provide additional comfort and ski control. If you want to get footbeds made or a pair of new boots fitted then we suggest you visit somewhere like Profeet for a professional fitting. Don’t forget if you have footbeds in your downhill boots but need to rent touring boots then you can bring the footbeds with you and put them in the hire boots.

    Bindings
    For all ski touring trips ski touring bindings are essential. Fritschi and Marker both make excellent ski-touring bindings and you have a few different options to choose from. Many more people are seeing the advantage of the “pin” binding system now offered by a number of manufacturers as these are light and offer ever-improving security despite their minimalist looks!

    It’s essential you have ski touring bindings on your skis. Although Pin bindings have been around since the Dynafit Low Tech bindings over 30 years ago since their patent expired the technology has advanced substantially. Salomon, with their Shift Binding, are at the forefront; they’re ‘multi norm compatible’ so fit a selection of boots and are lighter than most freeride bindings. Our lead guides are using the Shift binding this winter, so if you’d like to know more about them give Lockwoods a ring.

    Ski Poles
    We recommend telescopic poles. They must have wide powder baskets (4-5 inches/100-120mm diameter) otherwise you’ll be up to your armpits on the ascents. Go for an alloy rather than carbon poles which are lighter but have a nasty habit of snapping near the basket due to ski edge nicks.

    Rucksack
    For most ski tours especially multi-day hut-to-hut tours you will need a 35 - 40 litre rucksack. You might get away with a big 30 liter pack if you are an experienced ski tourer and know what to pack. Most people will find a 35-40 liter pack is a good size for touring.

    Key features of a good ski touring pack:

    • a method of attaching your skis in either an A-frame (one either side) or both together on a diagonal ski carriage
    • easy access into the main compartment without having to empty the sack to get something at the bottom
    • separate pocket for avalanche shovel, handle and probe
    • small top pocket for items like wallet, sunglassed/goggles etc; an ice axe loop
    • built-in rain cover and a secure method of attaching/stowing a ski helmet 
    • good hip/waist belt and adjustable shoulder straps

    Ortovox Haute Route 40 rucksack will be a good choice for ski touring trips. 

    Avalanche airbag rucksacks can be used for touring but they are heavy, adding somewhere between 5-8kg just for an empty pack plus canister. So unless you are sure you can carry it and fit all you need in, we do not recommend you use one. 

    Over a long multiday tour, every gram of weight is important as you have to carry and move it yourself. Carrying a heavy pack will hinder and tire all but the most experienced and fit ski tourer.

     

    • Ski Skins – these are skins which, now made of artificial fabric, stick to the bottom of your skis and allow you to walk up hill. They must be cut to fit your skis exactly, so if you are bringing your own skis you must provide your own skins.
    • Ski Crampons (aka couteaux) - most ski touring bindings have ski crampons specifically designed for the binding. We always carry these just in case. Again if you are bringing your skis and touring bindings you must provide your own ski crampons. 
    • Ice Axe - general lightweight mountaineering / alpine pick. Ideally this needs to be short enough to fit in your pack.
    • Boot Crampons - ideally lightweight aluminum ones although steel crampons are required for more demanding tours
    • Climbing Harness - a simple lightweight harness. The key feature is that it should have fully adjustable leg loops for putting on over ski boots, crampons, etc.
    • Helmet - Some people choose to ski tour with a helmet, this is up to you. If you bring a Normal ski helmet they are heavy to carry. Many manufacturers now have lightweight ski touring helmets that work well.

    On some tours in non-glaciated terrain, an ice-axe, boot crampons and climbing harness may not always be required. However, as conditions and itineraries can change, we generally recommend bringing these items with you. If you do not own these items they can be rented to you by our guides or via one of the local sports shops.
  • The “Safety Trilogy” - required on all our ski tours and off-piste courses.

    • Avalanche Transceiver/Beacon
    • Snow shovel
    • Avalanche probe

    We recommend Simple and intuitive ORTOVOX AVALANCHE RESCUE KIT 3+ 

     

    Remember it is not enough just to carry this equipment; you have to know how to use it. 

    How about joining one of our specialist avalanche courses – check out www.mountaintracks.co.uk/activity/avalanche-training

  • When choosing clothing for ski touring you want to think light, warm and versatile. During the trip weather conditions will change and you’re likely to go from warm afternoons where you’ll be carrying most of your gear in your rucksack, to icy-cold mornings when you’re wearing everything to keep warm! Getting hold of the best and lightest kit available is always worth it and most of the major brands will be able to supply a suitable kit.

    This season, we’ve partnered with Ortovox to provide us with the very best safety kit and clothing. Our guides will all be decked out in the latest Ortovox jackets and trousers and will keep warm, dry and comfortable thanks to their technical wool base- and mid-layers. Our guides couldn’t recommend their kit more highly.

     

    • Roll neck rather than a scarf. We use and recommend the ‘Buff¹ ¬ a light, stretchable tube. Excellent despite the name! They do both a fleece/cotton version for warmth or just a cotton one (to keep the sun off).
    • Headwear to include warm hat and sun-cap or wide-brim hat for extra protection from the sun. Mountain Tracks fully supports the wearing of helmets for skiing, although not mandatory for any of our trips we do recommend them.
    • An outer shell jacket made of waterproof and breathable material like Gore-Tex or similar with a built-in hood. The lighter the better and so a shell is recommended rather than an insulated jacket.
    • 1-2 thin fleeces - rather than a thick layer between your skin and the outer shell - an approach which gives better heat retention and good flexibility. These tops are known as ‘mid layers’. The principle of ‘layering’ e.g. allowing you to easily add/remove layers depending on the temperature and the activity is recommended to ensure comfort on the mountain.
    • Insulation layer like a down or Primaloft jacket is a good item to have ready to wear in the event of cold weather, it can live in your rucksack as a spare layer and can come in very handy for sudden changes in the weather.
    • For the lower half it’s essential that you have a pair of thermal base layer pants (long johns).
    • These can then be combined with either:
    • (a) a good pair of ‘technical shell’ pants in a waterproof and breathable fabric like Gore-Tex (b) a pair of mountain or alpine pants in a softshell material together with a pair of lightweight, breathable over trousers with long side zips.
    • Top and bottom underwear made of a synthetic, wicking material. Very popular at the moment are the wool based layers from companies such as Ortovox. They are comfy, breathable and warm when needed and can be worn for days without your friends catching a whiff!
    • Good quality Gore-Tex gloves or mitts and a thin pair of softshell or fleece gloves for when it is hot and for ski touring in. Silk inner gloves can be useful if the weather is cold and you suffer from cold hands.
    • Technical Socks - Investing in good quality ski socks will improve fit, warmth and feel when skiing for long periods. Bring along a few pairs.
    • Good pair of ski goggles with a lens for low light is essential in the event of snow and poor visibility
    • Good quality sunglasses with 100% UV protection
    • 35 – 40 liter rucksack
    • 1 – 1.5 Liter water bottle – we don’t recommend hydration systems (e.g. camelbak) in winter as they can freeze.
    • Food – bring some of your favorite hill nibbles (chocolate, energy bars)*
    • Suncream and lip salve
    • Camera with a large capacity memory card!
    • Money – most hotels, shops and restaurants accept credit cards, but not all the alpine huts do. You should allow about 30-40 Swiss Francs or 20-30 Euros per day for lunch and drinks (amount approximate and depends on consumption)
    Please note that your guide will have a few “spares” and other safety items that he or she will ask the group to carry between them; so leave a small space in your sack for an item e.g. spare skin, spare ski pole, emergency shelter.

    For a hut night:
    • Lightweight sleeping bag liner – now compulsory in most huts.
    • Wash kit with small personal first aid items – should include:
    • Toothbrush and paste - a mini one is ideal
    • Soap
    • Anti-bacterial hand cleaner
    • Wet wipes – essential to try to maintain hygiene
    • Tissues and toilet roll
    • Plasters – of various sizes and possibly some adhesive wound dressings.
    • Pain Killers – aspirin or Paracetamol/Nurofen
    • Antiseptic cream or wipes
    • Blister kit – compeed and elastic tape to hold it in place (essential)!
    • (Note: Guides will have comprehensive first aid kits and are qualified in mountain first aid)
    • Small light quick dry towel e.g. a Lifeventure Soft fiber towel
    • Most huts have limited washing facilities
    • Earplugs – it can get quite noisy!
    • Headtorch - lightweight and carry spare batteries.
    • Book, pack of cards and or Ipod/MP3 player – It’s nice to have something to read or listen to when you are in the huts or to challenge your fellow travelers to a game of card. These items are not essential but if you have space you might appreciate them.
    What to wear in the hut
    We are often asked by people what they should wear in the hut. It's a good question as you don't want to carry many or any extra clothes with you if they are not required. In the winter you will probably end up wearing your base layer thermals (top & bottom) or you can carry a lightweight pair of loose trousers to wear around the hut in the afternoons/evenings. Your base layer top is what you will probably wear on your top half or you can carry a t-shirt to wear in the hut that can double to sleep in. 

    Food and Water
    We suggest you bring with you or buy in resort snack food that you can take out on the hill with you each day. Things like cereal bars, dried fruit and nuts, chocolate, sugary sweets or your favorite hill snacks. When you’re staying overnight in huts its best to take supplies for the days you are away. Huts do sell food but it’s expensive and sometimes stocks run low.
    If you have any food allergies or dietary requirements especially if you are a Coeliac (Gluten free) or have a dairy allergy we strongly recommend you bring some food with you that you can supplement your dinners with. The huts are fairly good at providing for vegetarians but less so for other dietary needs.
    You have to buy bottled water in the huts as usually any running water is non-potable. Bottled water is expensive in French and Swiss huts; you can be paying upto 12-16CHF per 1.5L bottle of water. So please ensure you budget for this cost.

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Kyrgyzstan

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Kyrgyzstan, often referred to as the Switzerland of Asia, is bordered by Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, Kazakhstan, and China. Nearly 80% of the country is covered by mountains, including notable peaks like Pik Lenin and Khan Tengri, making Kyrgyzstan a prime destination for ski touring and freeriding enthusiasts.

The Tien Shan mountain range, which dominates much of the country's landscape, features some of the highest peaks in the world, such as Jengish Chokusu (Victory Peak) at 7,439 meters. The rugged terrain and varied topography offer extensive regions with excellent snow coverage and diverse slopes, making it an ideal setting for these activities.

The climate in Kyrgyzstan provides reliable snowfall from November to April, creating optimal conditions for ski touring and freeriding. The country's extensive network of valleys and high-altitude plateaus adds to the appeal, offering a range of challenging routes and spectacular scenery.

Yurts in Kyrgyzstan provides comfortable accommodations tailored for downhill skiing, freeriding, and heli-skiing. They also cater to ski mountaineering adventurers, offering access to remote and pristine valleys. Despite their traditional appearance, these yurts offer unexpected comforts: cosy temperatures, gourmet cuisine, spacious common areas, and even saunas. It's a five-star treatment amidst the wilderness.

In addition to its natural beauty, Kyrgyzstan boasts a rich cultural heritage. Historically, it was a key stop on the Silk Road, and its nomadic traditions are still evident today. Bishkek, the capital city, offers a blend of Soviet-era architecture and modern amenities, while cities like Osh feature vibrant bazaars and ancient sites.

Popular Facts About Kyrgyzstan:

  • Issyk-Kul Lake: One of the largest alpine lakes in the world, Issyk-Kul remains unfrozen throughout the year despite its high altitude.
  • Epic of Manas: Kyrgyzstan is known for the Epic of Manas, one of the longest epic poems in the world, reflecting its rich oral tradition.
  • Wildlife: The country is home to diverse wildlife, including snow leopards, ibex, and Marco Polo sheep.
  • Cultural Festivals: Traditional festivals, such as Nowruz (Persian New Year) and the World Nomad Games, celebrate the country's cultural heritage.
  • Cuisine: Kyrgyz cuisine features dishes like beshbarmak (boiled meat with noodles) and kumis (fermented mare's milk), reflecting its nomadic roots.

This blend of adventure, culture, and natural beauty makes Kyrgyzstan a unique and enticing destination for outdoor enthusiasts and cultural travelers alike.
  • It is a condition of booking that you are insured for your chosen activity and the cover must include medical expenses, personal accident, personal liability, third party risks and rescue (including helicopter rescue). You are strongly advised also to take out cover against cancellation and curtailment.

    For UK residents Ski Club Travel Insurance may be a suitable option.

    For more details and to purchase a policy online visit http://www.skiclubinsurance.co.uk/
    If you need assistance arranging your personal insurance please let us know.
     

  • When you book with Mountain Tracks, you’re not just securing your adventure—you’re joining our exclusive benefits community. As part of this community, you'll receive discounts from trusted suppliers, including retailers, transfer companies, rental shops, and more. Ski more, spend less!


    Knowledge

    • WeMountain: 90% of avalanches are triggered by the victim or someone in their party. WeMountain offers e-learning courses that aim to educate and inform, helping to reduce accidents and save lives in the mountains. Enjoy a 20% discount with our code.
      Use code: SAFEWITHMOUNTAINTRACKS

    Equipment

    • Lockwoods: Enjoy 15% off store-wide and 20% off avalanche safety equipment at this specialist ski and outdoor store.
    • Profeet: Get 10% off at Profeet, a London-based store known for their BASI certified platinum* boot fitting services.

    Note: For discount codes, please contact us directly. Existing clients will find these in our newsletter.


    Rentals

    • Intersport: Save 10% on all rentals.
      Use code: mountaintracks
    • Skiset: Enjoy 5% off rentals.
      Use code: mountaintracks

    Transfers


    With these exclusive discounts, we make it easier for you to enjoy your mountain adventures. If you have any questions or need more details, don’t hesitate to contact us!

  • Travelling from the United Kingdom to Bishkek, the capital city of Kyrgyzstan, involves several options. This guide provides information on flight duration, popular airlines, and key airports for a smooth journey.

    1. Flight Duration

    The total flight duration from the UK to Bishkek varies based on layovers and routes. Direct flights are not typically available, so travellers can expect one or more layovers. The total travel time usually ranges from 11 to 16 hours, including layover time.

     

    2. Popular Airlines


    Several airlines operate flights from various UK airports to Bishkek. Here are some of the popular ones:

    • Turkish Airlines: One of the most popular choices, with a layover in Istanbul (IST).
    • Pegasus Airlines: Offers budget-friendly options with a layover in Istanbul (SAW).
    • Lufthansa: Routes through Frankfurt (FRA).
    • Air Astana: Usually routes through Almaty (ALA), Kazakhstan.
    • Emirates: Routes through Dubai (DXB).


    3. Key Airports

    Departure Airports in the UK:

    • London Heathrow Airport (LHR): The busiest airport in the UK, offering the most frequent international flights.
    • London Gatwick Airport (LGW): Another major airport with various international flight options.
    • Manchester Airport (MAN): Offers several international connections, including flights to Bishkek.
    • Birmingham Airport (BHX): Provides a range of international flights, though fewer options compared to London airports.


    Arrival Airport in Bishkek:

    Manas International Airport (FRU): Located approximately 25 km (16 miles) north of Bishkek, it is the main international gateway to Kyrgyzstan. The airport is relatively small but efficiently handles international arrivals and departures.



    4. Sample Flight Itineraries

    Option 1: London Heathrow to Bishkek via Istanbul (Turkish Airlines)

    • London Heathrow (LHR) to Istanbul (IST): ~4 hours
    • Layover in Istanbul: 2-4 hours
    • Istanbul (IST) to Bishkek (FRU): ~5 hours

    Option 2: Manchester to Bishkek via Frankfurt (Lufthansa)

    • Manchester (MAN) to Frankfurt (FRA): ~1.5 hours
    • Layover in Frankfurt: 2-4 hours
    • Frankfurt (FRA) to Bishkek (FRU): ~6.5 hours


    Option 3: London Gatwick to Bishkek via Almaty (Air Astana)

    • London Gatwick (LGW) to Almaty (ALA): ~7 hours
    • Layover in Almaty: 2-5 hours
    • Almaty (ALA) to Bishkek (FRU): ~1.5 hours

     

    Option 4: Birmingham to Bishkek via Dubai (Emirates)**

    • Birmingham (BHX) to Dubai (DXB): ~7 hours
    • Layover in Dubai: 2-4 hours
    • Dubai (DXB) to Bishkek (FRU): ~4 hours

    5. Booking Tips

    • Book Early: Secure better prices and seat availability by booking flights well in advance.
    • Check Layover Durations: Ensure layovers provide sufficient time for transfers but are not excessively long.
    • Compare Airlines: Use comparison websites to find the best deals and convenient routes.
    • Consider Time of Year: Flight prices and availability can vary depending on the season and holidays.


    6. Additional Travel Information

    • Visa Requirements: UK citizens typically need a visa to enter Kyrgyzstan. Check the latest requirements and apply in advance.
    • Currency: The currency in Kyrgyzstan is the Kyrgyzstani Som (KGS). It's advisable to exchange some money before arriving or use ATMs in Bishkek.
    • Language: Kyrgyz and Russian are the official languages. English is not widely spoken, so having a translation app or phrasebook can be helpful.


    This guide should help you plan a comfortable and efficient journey from the UK to Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan. Safe travels!


  • ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorisation System) 

    1. What is ETIAS?

      • Starting in the first half of 2025, travellers from over 60 visa-exempt countries will be required to have an ETIAS travel authorisation to enter most European countries within the Schengen Area.
      • ETIAS enhances security by checking the details of travellers before they arrive.
      • It is similar to systems like the ESTA (USA) and eTA (Canada).
    2. Who Needs ETIAS?

      • Travellers with British passports or passports from other visa-exempt countries must complete the ETIAS process.
      • Holders of EU or Schengen Area passports or valid EU/Schengen Area visas are exempt.
    3. Application Details:

      • ETIAS costs a 7EUR processing fee, waived for those under 18 or over 70.
      • Validity: Three years from application, tied to your passport’s validity.
      • New passport = new ETIAS.
    4. Application Form Questions:

      • Basic personal details (e.g., passport info, name, address, citizenship, gender).
      • Additional questions during the process (e.g., criminal history, past travel, health).
    5. Application Fee:

      • 7EUR euros.
      • Electronic payment via debit/credit card.
    6. Approval:

      • Most applicants receive approval within minutes.
      • Valid ETIAS visa waiver for three consecutive years.

    Remember to apply for ETIAS approval to explore your favourite European destinations! More details will be confirmed by ETIAS authorities. You can find additional information at the following links:

     


    EES (Entry/Exit System)

    The Entry/Exit System (EES) is an automated IT system developed by the European Agency for the operational management of large-scale IT systems. Its primary purpose is to register travellers from third countries each time they cross an EU external border. Here are the key points:

    1. What is EES?

    2. Who Is Affected?

      • The EES applies to non-EU nationals travelling for a short stay (up to 90 days within any 180 days) to European countries using the EES.
      • Exemptions apply; for example, holders of EU or Schengen Area passports or valid visas are exempt from EES registration.
    3. Advantages of EES:

      • Saves time by replacing manual passport stamping.
      • Automates border control procedures for more efficient travel.
      • It helps identify travellers who overstay or use fake identities or passports.
      • Contributes to preventing, detecting, and investigating serious criminal offences.
     Remember, additional information about the EES system will be confirmed by authorities, including application acceptance details. For further resources, check out the ETIAS and the official EES website. 

      
  • All our ski tours are led by the team of IFMGA Mountain Guides. Lead guide for Mountain Tracks is Oliver Allen.
  • To ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone, all participants must meet the specified skill and stamina levels required for each trip, as outlined on the trip’s page at the time of booking.

    Please keep the following in mind:

    1. Trip Requirements: Before booking your trip, please review and confirm that you meet the necessary skill and stamina levels. These requirements are in place to ensure the safety and enjoyment of all participants.

    2. Guides' Discretion: Our guides and instructors are dedicated to maintaining the highest safety standards. They have the authority to exclude any participant who does not meet the required skill or stamina levels or whose participation could compromise the group's safety. This decision will be made with the utmost consideration.

    3. Responsibility for Costs: Should you be unable to continue with the trip due to inadequate skill or stamina, any additional expenses incurred will be your responsibility.

    We appreciate your understanding and cooperation. Our goal is to provide a memorable and safe adventure for everyone. If you have any questions or concerns about the requirements, please do not hesitate to contact us.

    For further information please refer to the Terms & Conditions

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