Enter into a little known and rarely visited land, following a route that very few have ever traveled. Cycle mostly unsealed tracks through the country as you ride back in time. Grand vistas, deep gorges, high, snowy peaks, rural villages and glacial rivers provide the scenic backdrop to this fascinating tour.

Experience local hospitality as you meet with shepherd families who sparsely populate the green mountains in their summer yurts. Kyrgyzstan re-emerged from its days as a Soviet Republic with its nomadic heritage and traditional hospitality intact.

Kyrgyzstan is dominated by mountains with over 90% of land lying above 1000 meters. The cycling starts in the north east next to Lake Issyk-Kul (1,606 meters) the country`s largest lake and the world’s second largest alpine lake after Lake Titicaca in South America, in the spectacular Tien-Shan mountain range.

Making our way south west we pass areas cloaked in conifers and carpeted in wildflowers and encounter meadowed landscapes. We also have some magnificent glacial views and have the opportunity to soak our tired legs in hot springs.

The cycling is mainly on unpaved surfaces that see less than 4-5 vehicles pass by each day. It includes some challenging climbs over high mountain passes. The route will have 100% vehicle support throughout. The tour offers a rare opportunity to explore this undiscovered gem in the heart of Central Asia.

Tour Dates:

26|07|09 - 19/08/09

Duration:
14 days

Costs:
£765

Flights: £650 approx.

Own Tent / Room: £80

Bike Hire: £100

Grade Rating:
7/10 Challenging

Average Daily Distance:
70 kms (45 miles)

Off Road: 80%

Max. Altitude:
3,600 metres