The Fann Mountains are part of the mountain ranges stretching through the Pamir-Alay and are less visited by Western travelers. Located less than a day’s drive from Samarkand, we cross the Uzbek-Tajik border to reach them, stopping to visit the ruins of Penjikent (5th–8th centuries), one of the oldest cities in the region of Maverannahr.

Penjikent marks the start of our adventure. We drive into the Zeravshan Valley by 4×4, enjoying beautiful nature and welcoming mountain villages. A mule caravan accompanies the group along the trail towards Chimtarga Peak (5840 m), with stunning views over Lake Kulikalon and the warm hospitality of local shepherds offering traditional yogurt.

The region has a mild, often hot mountain climate. After hiking, the cool waters of high-altitude lakes are refreshing. Daytime temperatures range from 25–30°C, nights around 10°C, and colder at higher altitudes.

Day 1 – Samarkand – Penjikent – Artuch (2045 m)

Meet in Samarkand at 9:00. Transfer to the Uzbek-Tajik border. Visit Penjikent’s old town, archaeological site, and Rudaki museum. Lunch. Drive to the mountains. Overnight in a guesthouse in Artuch.

Day 2 – Trek to Lake Kulikalon
Hike to the crystal-clear Kulikalon Lakes. Stunning views of peaks over 4500 m: Adamtash, Maria, Rudaki, Mirali. Camp by Lake Bibijonat or Dushokha. (8 km, ~6h, +700 m)

Day 3 – Alauddin Pass – Lake Alauddin
Ascend Alauddin Pass (3860 m). Views of Kulikalon wall, Chapdara Peak (5170 m), and Alauddin Lake. Descend and camp by the lake. (6 km, ~7h, +900 m / –950 m)

Day 4 – Mutnoe Lake – Chimtarga Viewpoint
Hike through alpine scenery to Lake Mutnoe and ascend a pass (~3800 m) for views of Chimtarga Peak (5489 m). Return to camp at Mutnoe Lake. (7 km, ~6h, +800 m)

Day 5 – Zindon Valley – Grand Allo Lake
Hike toward Grand Allo Lake, with views of Ganza Peaks (5043 m, 4956 m), Energia (5105 m), and Moscow (5046 m). Descend along the Zindon River. Camp at 3180 m. (9 km, ~6–7h, +300 / –1500 m)

Day 6 – Zindon – Artchamaidan Valley
Descend along the Zindon stream into Artchamaidan Valley, where Tajik shepherds spend the summer. Taste local pancakes and yogurt. Camp at 2200 m. (10 km, ~6h, –1400 m)

Day 7 – Ganza Village
Final descent to the village of Ganza. Overnight in a local house. (6h, –1200 m)

Day 8 – Ganza – Penjikent – Samarkand
Return to Samarkand via Penjikent. Cross the border, meet Uzbek driver. End of services.

This is a demanding trek with high passes (above 3600 m).
Average walking time: 7 hours/day. Some days longer.

Good physical fitness required.

Notes:

• Group size: max 12 people

• Accommodation: tents (2 persons/tent)

• Meals prepared by a cook during trek

• Local guide and French-speaking translator provided

• No vehicle support: pack mules carry luggage

• Trekking stages: 5–6 hours/day