The Pamir Highway

14 Tage
Osch
Pamir
Osch
Tajikistan
2.000 km

Overview

The Pamir Highway is one of the highest roads in the world. Stretching roughly 1,250 kilometres, it connects Osh in Kyrgyzstan with Dushanbe in Tajikistan and leads straight into the rugged, dramatic heart of the Pamir Mountains.

This legendary route is more than just a road — it is an adventure. High mountain passes, endless steppes, remote villages and often challenging road conditions turn every stage into an intense experience. Weather, altitude and isolation demand respect, but reward riders with spectacular landscapes that leave a lasting impression.

The Pamir Highway is legendary not only for its technical challenges, but for the way it draws travellers deep into the soul of Central Asia. In one of the world’s most isolated yet culturally rich regions, encounters with warm hospitality, centuries-old traditions and a way of life far removed from modern routines awaken a true spirit of adventure.

For motorcyclists seeking the extreme, the Pamir Highway represents the ultimate journey — a ride that tests physical and mental strength and leaves memories that endure.

All photo credits for this tour: G. Gunzenheimer

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At A Glance

Category Details
Region Kyrgyzstan & Tajikistan – Pamir Highway, Wakhan Valley & Pamir Plateau
Duration 14 days
Start / End Osh (Kyrgyzstan) / Osh (Kyrgyzstan)
Total Distance approx. 2,000–2,500 km (depending on route & weather conditions)
Maximum Altitude 4,655 m (Ak-Baital Pass)
Altitude Profile Several days above 3,500–4,000 m (Pamir Plateau)
Difficulty Challenging – suitable for experienced riders with good fitness and off-road experience
Terrain Asphalt, gravel, corrugated roads, natural tracks, river crossings (season-dependent)
Highlights
  • Pamir Highway (M41) – one of the world’s most legendary high-altitude routes
  • Wakhan Valley along the Afghan border
  • Bulunkul Lake & remote homestays on the Pamir Plateau
  • Murgab & optional Russian banya (sauna)
  • Ak-Baital Pass (4,655 m) – the highest point of the journey
  • Karakul Lake with vast highland panoramas
  • Views of Pik Lenin near Sary Tash / Sary Mogul
Accommodation Mix of hotels, guesthouses and simple homestays (basic at times, but authentic)
Meals Mostly half board; local stops and simple meals en route (depending on region)
Group Size Small group (typically 6–10 riders)
Support Vehicle Yes – support vehicle for luggage, spare parts and assistance
Included
  • Local guide / tour leader
  • Motorcycle (depending on package) with basic support
  • Support vehicle for luggage and assistance
  • Accommodation as per itinerary (double room / homestay)
  • Selected meals according to the itinerary
  • Entrance fees / permits where included in the program
Not Included
  • International travel to and from the tour start point
  • Visas, border or regional permits (unless explicitly included)
  • Travel & medical insurance / evacuation insurance
  • Tips
  • Drinks, snacks and personal expenses
  • Single room supplement (if requested)
Important Note Route may be adjusted due to weather and road conditions (altitude, passes, river crossings).

ITinerary

Day Description
Day 1 Arrival in Osh. Hotel check-in and time to settle in. Over a shared lunch we get to know each other and go through the tour briefing. In the afternoon, a short test ride to familiarise ourselves with the motorcycles and local conditions. Overnight in Osh.
Day 2 Day trip to Papan Lake. Riding on gravel tracks and through green valleys, climbing up to a pass before reaching Papan Lake — an important water reservoir for the region. Return to Osh in the afternoon via paved roads.
Day 3 Through the Fergana Valley to Khujand. A relaxed ride on well-built roads through one of Central Asia’s most fertile regions. Border crossing into Tajikistan and arrival in Khujand in the evening.
Day 4 Ride to Iskanderkul Lake. Crossing a high mountain pass followed by a slow and scenic ride through a wild gorge on natural roads. Arrival at the spectacularly located Iskanderkul Lake and overnight nearby.
Day 5 Pass ride to Dushanbe. Crossing a nearly traffic-free pass at around 3,300 m, while the support vehicle uses the Anzob Tunnel. Afternoon city exploration in Dushanbe and overnight in Tajikistan’s capital.
Day 6 Ride to Kalaikhum. Depending on conditions, we take either the winter route or the M41. Challenging sections with unpaved roads and water crossings. Overnight in a simple homestay, experiencing warm Tajik hospitality.
Day 7 Ride to Khorog. Following the Panj River through a dramatic gorge that also marks the border with Afghanistan. Arrival in the lively university town of Khorog and shared dinner in the evening.
Day 8 Into the Wakhan Valley to Bibi Fatima. Riding along the Afghan border through one of the culturally most fascinating regions of the journey. Relaxation at the hot springs of Bibi Fatima and overnight in a homestay.
Day 9 Ascent to the Pamir Plateau. We continue to gain altitude, reaching elevations of around 4,000 m. Thin air is rewarded with crystal-clear views and vast landscapes. Overnight in a remote homestay near Bulunkul Lake.
Day 10 Riding the Pamir Highway. Traversing an almost surreal, moon-like landscape, visiting a small geyser and continuing along the Afghan and Chinese borders. Overnight in Murghab, with the option of a hot shower or a traditional Russian banya.
Day 11 Ride to Karakul Lake. Crossing the Ak-Baital Pass (4,655 m), the highest point of the journey. Vast landscapes and intense colours accompany us to Karakul Lake. Overnight in a guesthouse or homestay.
Day 12 Ride to Sary Tash and Sary Mogul. Re-entering Kyrgyzstan with impressive views of Pik Lenin, providing a visual climax to the journey.
Day 13 Return ride to Osh. Final riding day through high mountain scenery with unforgettable views. Motorcycle handover followed by a shared farewell dinner.
Day 14 End of the journey in Osh. Time to relax or optional additional overnight stay, depending on individual departure times.

Termine & Preise

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Map

Gallery

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