Safety on Our Tours

Travelling in the mountains of Central Asia is a wonderful experience, and it becomes even better when you know that safety has been considered from the start. This page explains how we approach it.

Planning

• We plan realistic daily distances and driving times, with regular breaks.
• Every tour description states the difficulty level, altitude where relevant and what you need to bring.
• We ask about your experience, health and expectations when you send a request, so that we can advise whether a tour suits you.

Guides, drivers and vehicles

• Tours are led by local guides and drivers who know the regions, roads and weather.
• For mountain roads and unpaved tracks we use suitable vehicles, including 4x4 vehicles where needed, and winter tyres in winter.
• On horse riding tours, local horsemen accompany the group and choose horses to match the riders' experience.

Weather and changes to the programme

Mountain weather can change within hours. If conditions are unsafe – heavy rain, snow on a pass, rockfall or high rivers – the guide may change the route, the order of the days or turn back. These decisions are always made in the interest of the group's safety.

Altitude and health

• Some tours go above 3,000 m. Mild symptoms such as headaches or poor sleep are common at altitude; tell your guide if you feel unwell.
• Please inform us in advance about medical conditions, allergies or dietary needs.
• Bring your personal medicines and a small first-aid kit.
• Drink bottled or boiled water.

Insurance

We strongly recommend travel insurance that covers medical treatment and evacuation. For trekking, riding and skiing, make sure that these activities and, where relevant, mountain rescue are covered.

What we ask of travellers

• Follow the instructions of your guide, especially on trails, near rivers and with horses.
• Do not leave the group or go hiking alone in remote areas without informing the guide.
• Keep a copy of your passport and your insurance details with you.
• Save the contact details you receive in your booking confirmation.

More practical tips are on our Useful information page.