Explore the land of Unknown

Wakhan

20th Aug - 3rd Sep 2024

$5,500 NZD Per Person

Wakhan is the land so remote that few outsiders have ever ventured there. Yet through Wakhan flowed a vital branch of the grand trans-Asian artery known as the Silk Road, linking East to West. Petroglyphs depicting warriors, hunting scenes, caravans and Buddhist history, along with the occasional Rabot or travellers’ shelter, bear silent witness to the tracks of tradition and offer the visitor a glimpse into the rich heritage of pilgrims, caravans and armies that once traversed this classic route.

Explore Afghanistan's Wakhan District, a 350km strip nestled between Tajikistan and Pakistan, reaching the Chinese border. Divided into the Wakhan Corridor and Afghan Pamir, it boasts elevations above 2000m, with the Afghan Pamir rising over 3500m. The corridor features the Panj River, flanked by the Hindukush peaks to the south and Tajikistan's mountains to the north. Visit Wakhi villages along the rivers, from the wide Lower Wakhan to the narrow Upper Wakhan, culminating in the 3km wide river basin at Sarhad-e Broghil.

EXPLORE THE WAKHAN DISTRICT

Wakhan is where the Hindukush, Karakoram, and Pamir mountain ranges meet, forming the Pamir Knot. The Hindukush Range, bordering Pakistan, boasts 38 peaks over 7000m, including Afghanistan's highest, Noshaq (7492m). Explore the Afghan Pamir, home to Kyrgyz nomads, and traverse historic high passes. The region's semi-arid landscapes rely on mountain stream irrigation. The barren beauty of the Wakhan Corridor contrasts with the Afghan Pamir's lush meadows above 3500m. Discover this hidden gem's rich cultural and natural wonders.

Wakhan Pamir Tour

A 15-Day Journey to the roof of the world

In August 2024, we are scheduled to start on a 15-day expedition to explore one of the most secluded regions on the planet. This adventure will take us to the homeland of one of the world's final and least-explored nomadic cultures: the Kyrgyz people of the Afghan Pamir. Our journey begins in Kabul and involves a drive into the heart of the Hindu Kush mountains. From there, we will travel through the Wakhan Corridor to reach the Afghan Pamir, known as the "roof of the world." Along the way, we will encounter the Wakhi and Kyrgyz nomads, experiencing their unique cultures and hospitality in one of the most remote places in the world, a region that was part of the Silk Road for centuries.

What is included in this tour? Items that are included in the cost of tour price.

  • All accommodation
  •  Breakfast
  • All food outside the major cities
  • Transport/transfers
  • International guide
  • Local guides
  • Local cook
  • Tents and camping equipment
  • Pack animals
  • Permits to visit the Wakhan region

What is not included in this tour? Items that are not included in the cost of the tour price.

  • Any necessary visas
  • International flights
  • Insurance
  • Entrance fees
  • Drinks
  • Tips
  • Lunch and dinner

ITINERARY

Day 1: Kabul to Kunduz Begin your journey from Kabul to Kunduz, exploring the scenic Salang beauties and the highway with stops in several amazing districts spanning three provinces. Overnight stay at a Guesthouse in Kunduz.
Day 2: Kunduz to Faizabad Depart Kunduz for Faizabad, arriving around 12-1 pm. Obtain Wakhan permits from the Directorate of Culture and Information. Visit the old bridge and the historic city of Faizabad. Overnight at Bam-e-Dunya Guesthouse.
Day 3: Faizabad to Ishkashim Explore the villages of Bahrak and Wordoog Village in three districts. Overnight at Markoplo Guesthouse. 
Day 4: Ishkashim to Qala-e-Panja Embark on the first day towards Wakhan, experiencing the morning splendor and the breathtaking natural beauty of Wakhan villages. Overnight at Qala e Panja Guesthouse.
Day 5: Qala e Panja to Sahard e Broghil Discover the natural beauty of high mountains with cold and hot springs. Overnight at Sahrad e Broghil. 
Day 6: Sahrad e Broghil to Chaqmaqtain Lake Journey through mountainous landscapes, encountering wildlife like Ibex, Markoplo, and beautiful birds. Night at a tent or in a traditional Qirghiz yurt.
Day 7: Rest day at Chaqmaqtain Lake Explore the culture and beauty surrounding Chaqmaqtain Lake. Overnight in a tent near the lake or in a yurt.
Day 8: Around the Lake – Buzaigumbaz Spend the day around the lake, visiting Buzaigumbaz and experiencing the culture of the Kirgiz people. Night at Buzaigumbaz.
Day 9: Buzaigumbaz to Sahrad e Broghil Visit shepherds and explore the scenic valleys of the high mountains.
Day 10: Sahrad e Broghil to Qala e Panja Wash in hot springs at Baba Tangi or Shulk during the journey.
Day 11: Qala e Panja to Ishkashim Take a short break at Pegish pilgrimage, have lunch, and bid farewell to Wakhi cooks and Wakhan locals. Overnight at Ishkashim.
Day 12: Ishkashim to Faizabad Witness the beauties of Zebak people fishing and the natural wonders of Wordooj district. Evening visit to Faizabad’s local bazaar for souvenir shopping.
Day 13: Faizabad to Kunduz Capture the natural beauty along the way through photography.
Day 14: Kunduz to Kabul Travel back to Kabul.
Day 15: Kabul, Explore famous places in Kabul, including mosques and Babur
Garden. Customize the day’s activities according to personal preferences.
Note: The itinerary is subject to change based on unforeseen circumstances or local
conditions.

HIGHLIGHTS

  • Snowcapped 7000m Hindukush peaks beckon true mountain lovers.
  • Kyrgyz nomads in the heart of the Afghan Pamir preserve a vanishing way of life.
  • Rare and spectacular wildlife roam isolated high-elevation valleys.
  • Sparkling mountain lakes of Zorkol and Chaqmaqtin feed Central Asia’s mighty Oxus River.
  • Ancient Silk Road caravan history inscribed in petroglyphs showcases the archeology.