Trek in The Fann Mountains

Fann mountains are considered to be one of the most beautiful in Central Asia. They are known for their picturesque mountainous scenery as well as for the great number of different nice and clear lakes scattered all over. Geographically the Fann Mountains are part of those great ramparts of rock which run along the southern edge of the Central Asian republics and Siberia, virtually from the Caspian to the Pacific. More specifically they are part of the Pamir-Alai and are located in the Republic of Tajikistan between the Zeravshan and Gissar ranges.
Narrow canyons with clear, rushing rivers, high glaciated summits, wide variety of colorful panoramas, picturesque river valleys and thousands of lakes set amongst juniper forests make this region one of the most attractive mountain regions in Central Asia.
Apart from the mountains, Tajikistan is famous for the riotous sense of color Tajik people have. They love vivid colors, as many as possible. The people are very hospitable and make friends easily. In many small villages hidden in the mountains they still speak ancient Sogdian dialect, the language that Alexander the Great heard when he came to these places. They say that he had been camping on the shores of Iskanderkul lake, and hence it was named after him.

GRADE AND QUALFICATION
This trek is graded B/C but should be within the capabilities of any normal healthy and fit person used to hill walking. The route is not difficult but will sometimes require the expenditure of a fair amount of energy. Although we cross some high mountain passes most of the walking is on good paths. Crossing the Kaznok Pass we encounter a short steep snow slope where, for about 100m, a ski stick or similar would be useful. Mules will carry the main luggage allowing you to walk with only a day pack. The average day involves some 4 to 5 hours walking.

FOOD AND ACCOMODATION
All meals and accommodation are included in the trip cost. On the trek a cook prepares all meals using mainly local fresh foods, which are plentiful at this time of a year. Accommodation in town is in good hotels but standards are often lower than in the west. On the trek 3-person, double-skinned, dome tents are used for 2 people so there is plenty of room. There is a lack of variety of chocolates, nuts and biscuits in Central Asia so we recommend that you take a small "goody bag" with you for the times when you need some extra energy or when you are suffering from a lack of appetite.


EQUIPMENT,WEATHER AND CLOTHES
What makes this area attractive for trekking is the settled weather encountered during the summer months. However, mountain weather is variable, rain (and even snowfall on the passes) could be encountered at any time although this is generally rare and a lightweight waterproof should be adequate.
In the mountains day temperatures are about 20°C. At night, especially at the highest campsites there might be slight frosts. On the other hand, in towns, afternoon temperatures often rise to above 30°C.
If you are already a hiker or backpacker you will probably have much of the clothing and equipment required. A three season sleeping bag and 25 liter rucksack should be adequate. Mules will carry all communal equipment and most of your main luggage. A detailed equipment list will be sent with confirmation of booking.

HEALTH MATTER AND DOCUMENTS
An emergency medical kit accompanies the trek and the staff often include qualified medical personnel. We nevertheless recommend that you carry your own personal first aid kit. A suggested list of contents as well as more general health information is included in the pre-departure information. No special inoculations are required.
A visa is required. Full details of the procedures involved will be included in pre-departure booklet.