Step back in time and trace the footsteps of ancient traders on the Silk Road. Our Fann Fastpack takes you to the stunning Fann Mountains in Tajikistan’s Pamir-Alay region.

Our journey begins in Samarkand, a city that has witnessed the rise and fall of empires. Once a bustling crossroads on the Silk Road, Samarkand boasts stunning architecture, including the iconic Registan Square. From Samarkand, we’ll venture into the heart of the Fann Mountains, a range known for its pristine lakes, snow-capped peaks, and diverse flora and fauna.

Route

Fann Fastpack (July 12 – 28, 2025) This fast-paced adventure is designed for active travelers who crave a challenge. We’ll hike through stunning mountain passes, traverse alpine meadows, and camp under the starry sky. Along the way, we’ll experience the warm hospitality of the local people and immerse ourselves in the region’s rich culture. 

The numbers: 17 days including; arrival, briefing (and sightseeing day) in Samarkand and departure; 12 days on trail. Total minimum Distance: 224.97km/147.32miles, Total Gain: +14508m/21,968ft, Total Loss: -14966m/26,007ft, Max Elevation: 4751m/4,045ft. Minimum participants: 4, Max: 10. Cost: $3,487 (tentative) All inclusive, including $250 deposit through Stripe (the rest due within 30 days). Register through Stripe!

Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Samarkand (Hotel)

Day 2: Full day in Samarkand (Hotel)

Day 3: Cross border, hike from Padrud to Seven lake, Distance: 11k (Camp)

Day 4: Seven lake to Khumori Gung Camp, Distance: 20k (Camp)

Day 5: Khumori Gung Camp to Zimtud, Distance: 17k (Homestay)

Day 6: Zimtud to Kulikalon lake, Distance: 21k (Camp)

Day 7: Acclimatisation day (Camp)

Day 8: Kulikalon lake to Mutnyi Lake, Distance 14k (Camp)

Day 9: Acclimatisation day (Camp)

Day 10: Mutnyi Lake to Bolshoi Allo Lake, Distance: 14k (Camp)

Day 11: Bolshoi Allo Lake to camp, Distance: 18k (Camp)

Day 12: Camp to Sarytag, Distance: 32k (Homestay)

Day 13: Sarytag to camp, Distance: 27k (Camp)

Day 14: Camp to camp, Distance: 30k (Camp)

Day 15: Camp to Ayni, Distance: 35k (Homestay)

Day 16: Ayni to Dushanbe (Transportation)

Day 17: Departure day


The trip includes:

  • Airport pickups and drop-offs.
  • Welcome lunch in Samarkand and farewell dinner Dushanbe.
  • Two hotel nights in Samarkand.
  • All trail costs (homestays and camping; full board) for the trail duration of 12 days.
  • WFR/HAL certified guide. Wages for the guides, their heli-evacuation coverage and medical insurance, lodging and fooding.
  • Donkeys and donkey handlers.
  • Remote doctor (who has worked on Everest) on call.
  • Custom weather forecast for passes above 5000 m.
  • Satellite communication devices (Thuraya, Garmin Inreach) with safety protocols in place.
  • A dedicated staff member as a backstopper in Tajikistan.
  • A schwag bag.
Note: If we do not get the minimum number of participants (four), the cost per participant would increase. In such a case we will have two options; cancel the trip or run it with a small group by changing the format. In such a scenario if we don’t get four participants by the end of May 2025, we strip ground support (kitchen staff, mules, cooked meals ) on the trail and do it self-supported. This will reduce the above trip cost, and increase the weight of our packs.