peak lenin expedition

Central Asia
peak lenin
expedition
trip highligh­­­ts
Climb Peak Lenin and reach 7000m with world class leadership
High level of support, including porters to
carry group gear above base camp
Transfer from Peak Lenin direct to Khan Tengri
and climb two 7000m mountains!
Comfortable fully‑inclusive base camp
services set on an alpine meadow
Travel through the fantastic Pamir mountains
Flight from Bishkek to Osh
Trip Duration23 days
Trip Code: PLE
GradeAdvanced Mountaineering Expedition
ActivitiesMountaineering and Trekking
Summary23 day trip, 17 day trek/mountaineering,
18 nights camping and 4 nights hotels
welcome to
World Expeditions
Thank you for your interest in our Peak Lenin Expedition trip. At
World Expeditions we are passionate about our off the beaten track
experiences as they provide our travellers with the thrill of coming
face to face with untouched cultures as well as wilderness regions
of great natural beauty. We are committed to ensuring that our
unique itineraries are well researched, affordable and tailored for the
enjoyment of small groups or individuals ‑ philosophies that have
been at our core since 1975 when we began operating adventure
holidays. Our itineraries will give you the very best travel experience,
designed by people with incredible local knowledge who share our
vision of authentic exchange and real exploration with a responsible
tourism approach. Whether you like your adventures to include
trekking, touring, cycling, mountaineering, kayaking or cruising World
Expeditions can make it happen for you. We hope you will join us for
a life changing experience!!
1 – © 2016 World Expeditions Travel Group - Gavin Turner 10/10/2016 5:24:04 PM
why travel with World Expeditions?
When planning travel to a remote and challenging destination, many
factors need to be considered.World Expeditions have enjoyed a long
association with our partner in‑country, and our extra attention to detail
and seamless operations on the ground ensure that you will have a
memorable experience in the mountains. Our Peak Lenin expedition
is led by an experienced high altitude climbing guide, as well as a
knowledgeable local guide and crew that share a passion for the
region in which they work, and a desire to share it with you. We take
every precaution to ensure smooth logistics. We use comfortable 3
star accommodation in hand picked hotels. The highest standards of
hygiene are maintained on the expedition, and our cooks will surprise
you with a varied menu that’s sure to please at the conclusion of each
day.
Kazakhstan
Bishkek
peak lenin expedition
A high altitude expedition to Peak Lenin (7134m/23,405ft)
in the Pamirs, considered one of the world’s most achievable
7000m mountains, led by Soren Kruse Ledet.
trip dates
2017
04Jul - 26Jul
important notes
Note: - Similar dates in 2018
Note: - prices valid up to 31/12/2017. For trips departing
after this date, the price will likely increase subject to
local inflationary pressures on operational costs.
trip cost
Joining Bishkek:£3690
All prices are per person
options & supplements
Single Supplement Hotel Only:
£120
For competitive airfares and stopover ideas,contact
our expert staff today to receive a detailed quote.
Kyrgyzstan
Uzbekistan
Osh
Tajikistan
Peak Lenin
the trip
Situated on the Tajikistan ‑ Kyrgyzstan border, Peak Lenin stands at an altitude of 7134m
and is the second highest mountain in the Pamir mountain range. Although a popular
and non‑technical ascent suitable for those who wish to climb for the first time over 7000
metres, this expedition is not to be underestimated due to the extreme altitude involved. Our
expedition is from the Kyrgyzstan side of the peak, beginning from the village of Osh. We will
acclimatise on the mountain, establishing and stocking our high camps for the first half of our
expedition. Once all camps are in place, we will rest before making our summit push under
Soren’s expert guidance. To join this expedition you will need a high level of fitness, basic
mountaineering skills, prior experience at high altitude and the desire required to reach the
summit of a significant 7000m mountain.
about your leader/escort
Soren Kruse Ledet is a high altitude mountain guide based in Sydney, Australia. For the
past 23 years he has lead and participated in more than 50 mountaineering expeditions
and challenging treks in Nepal, Bhutan, Pakistan and Tibet. In 2011 Soren reached 27,500
ft during an unassisted ascent of Everest. Soren has successfully summited Ama Dablam 4
times.
at a glance
DAY 1JOIN BISHKEK
DAY 2FLIGHT TO OSH
DAY 3TRANSFER TO LENIN PEAK BASE CAMP (3600M)
DAY 4PREPARATION DAY
DAY 5CLIMB TO CAMP 1 (4400M).
DAY 6MOVE TO CAMP 1 (4400M).
DAY 7ACCLIMATISATION DAY.
DAY 8CLIMB TO CAMP 2 (5300M).
DAY 9REST DAY AND PREPARATIONS
DAY 10RETURN TO BASE CAMP (3600M).
DAYS 11-12REST DAYS
DAYS 13-15CLIMB TO CAMP 3 (6100M)
DAYS 16-20SUMMIT ATTEMPT
DAY 21TRANSFER FROM BC TO YURT CAMP AND OSH
DAY 22FLIGHT FROM OSH TO BISHKEK
DAY 23TRIP CONCLUDES IN OSH
what’s included
22 breakfasts, 19 lunches and 18 dinners
Porters for group gear above base camp
World Expeditions mountaineering guide and local leader
Two person tents, group camping equipment & mess tent
All internal transport by flight, minibus and 4WD jeep
All meals while on the mountain
3 star accommodation in Bishkek on a twin share basis
Climbing and boundary zone permits
Portable high altitude chamber and medical kit
Bishkek airport transfers, days 1 & 23
2 – © 2016 World Expeditions Travel Group - Gavin Turner 10/10/2016 5:24:04 PM
peak lenin expedition
A high altitude expedition to Peak Lenin (7134m/23,405ft)
in the Pamirs, considered one of the world’s most achievable
7000m mountains, led by Soren Kruse Ledet.
No local payments policy: Local cash payments are becoming increasingly popular with
many operators. The policy seems to benefit the tour operators, more than the local
economies or travellers, as it avoids local taxes and transfers the cost and risk of cash
handling to travellers. In accordance with our Responsible Travel practices.
detailed itinerary
DAY 1Join Bishkek
On arrival you will be met by a representative of World Expeditions and transferred to the group
hotel.
meals: NIL
DAY 2Flight to Osh
Osh is the nearest city from which expeditions to Lenin Peak begin. Osh (called ‘The Southern
Capital”) is the biggest city in southern Kyrgyzstan. It is a city with a host of side-streets, cozy
open-air cafes and restaurants, bazaars and the main point of interest - “Sulayman-Mountain”. This
“mountain” rises in the middle of the town against a background of urban life, reminding us of the
proximity of the Pamir-Alay Mountains, one of the least known mountain wildernesses in the world.
Overnight hotel.
meals: B
DAY 3Transfer to Lenin Peak Base Camp (3600m)
From Osh to our base camp we drive along the Pamir Tract. We will cross the Taldyk Pass (3615m)
before taking lunch in a yurt camp near Sary Tash village en-route. In the afternoon we will enter the
Alay Valley to our base camp.
Base Camp (3800m) is set on a picturesque alpine glade “Lukovaya Polyana”. It is very comfortably
appointed with large two person tents with wooden flooring and kurpachas, Kirghiz national
mattress, hot showers and best of all, saunas.
(300 km, 7-8hrs).
meals: B,L,D
DAY 4Preparation day
This day has been set aside for rest and acclimatisation. Your guide will brief you on the days ahead
and assist you with your gear. Flexibility, a positive attitude and a desire to patiently overcome the
various challenges are required on high altitude expeditions!
meals: B,L,D
DAY 5Climb to camp 1 (4400m).
This morning an early start is required for the best conditions. To gain the Lenin Glacier we must
ascend Puteshestvennikoy Pass (4200m). The path is well marked and can be snow covered.
Descending along the slope of the pass we cross a river and walk along the moraine to Camp 1
before making our return journey to base camp.
Approx. 8-9 hrs
meals: B,L,D
DAY 6Move to camp 1 (4400m).
Today we retrace our trek and carry more loads to camp 1 where we will stay overnight.
Approx. 4-6 hrs.
meals: B,L,D
3 – © 2016 World Expeditions Travel Group - Gavin Turner 10/10/2016 5:24:04 PM
peak lenin expedition
A high altitude expedition to Peak Lenin (7134m/23,405ft)
in the Pamirs, considered one of the world’s most achievable
7000m mountains, led by Soren Kruse Ledet.
DAY 7Acclimatisation day.
fast facts
Countries Visited:
Kyrgyzstan
Visas:
Yes*
Vaccinations:
Please consult a travel vaccination
specialist for up to date information
Private Groups:
Private group options are
available for this trip*
Singles:
A single supplement is not always possible
on this trip. In many instances campsite
size is limited and it will be necessary
to share with another team member.
This also applies to mountaineering
expeditions. Single supplement in hotels
is available. Please contact your World
Expeditions Consultant or Travel Agent
for specific details relevant to your trip.
Leader:
Experienced English speaking
mountaineering guide
Brochure Reference:
Himalaya and Indian Subcontinent
responsible travel
The environments we travel through are
fragile. It is our responsibility as visitors
to minimise the impact of our presence.
World Expeditions were the proud recipients
of the inaugural Australian National Travel
Industry’s Environmental Achievement award
for our Responsible Travel Guidebook.
This detailed guide to responsible &
sustainable travel is provided to all World
Expeditions clients before they travel.
Please ask your consultant if you have
not received your copy of our award
winning book. Alternatively, you may like
to download a copy from our website
www.worldexpeditions.com
Our crew will depart with loads for camp 2 allowing us time to acclimatise further. We will walk
to a nearby glacier and practice various rope techniques which will be required higher up on the
mountain.
meals: B,L,D
DAY 8Climb to camp 2 (5300m).
Today we make a very early start in order to reach camp 2.
Leaving camp 1 we head towards the North Wall and the beginning of the snow slope. After crossing
the Lenin Glacier the angle of the slope is 35 to 40 degrees and we will use fixed ropes to assist
us. Continuing up for approx. 80 metres we then traverse the slope onto a snow plateau known as
“Skovoroda”. There is a final slope before reaching camp.
Approx 8-9 hrs.
meals: B,L,D
DAY 9Rest day and preparations
The schedule during this stage of an expedition is flexible, with time required for rest,
acclimatisation, weather and other factors.
meals: B,L,D
DAY 10Return to Base Camp (3600m).
Today will be a long day as we depart camp 2 for base camp, stopping for lunch at camp 1.
Aprrox 9-10hrs.
meals: B,L,D
DAYS 11-12Rest days
Two days of rest in our comfortable base camp.
These days are important for the acclimatisation process and to ensure we are well rested for the
summit bid ahead. It is also good opportunity to relax and make use of the camp sauna!
meals: B,L,D
DAYS 13-15Climb to camp 3 (6100m)
We leave the comfort of our base camp to make our way to camp 3 from where we will make our
summit bid.The climb between camp 2 and camp 3 can be exposed and windy. We ascend the 25
to 30 degrees slope always keeping to the left of the rock to gain the ridge. We climb to the left
towards Razdelnaya Peak (6200m), traverse the summit and descend to Camp 3.
meals: B,L,D
DAYS 16-20Summit attempt
The route to the summit is not considered a technical climb, and although it is relatively
straightforward, it is very challenging due to the high altitude and often adverse weather conditions.
The trek to the top is a long one on a relatively easy angled ridge. Summit day will be around a
12-14 hour day. Our itinerary during this time is flexible. We ask that all participants follow the
advice of the expedition leader and crew at all times and participate actively in load carrying, setting
up of camps and preparing of meals when required.
meals: B,L,D
4 – © 2016 World Expeditions Travel Group - Gavin Turner 10/10/2016 5:24:04 PM
peak lenin expedition
A high altitude expedition to Peak Lenin (7134m/23,405ft)
in the Pamirs, considered one of the world’s most achievable
7000m mountains, led by Soren Kruse Ledet.
trip grading
Advanced Mountaineering Expedition
These are our most challenging expeditions.
Clients must have prior mountaineering
experience.Most are participatory
expeditions & involve load carrying, setting
up of camps, cooking and campcraft.Altitude
is generally greater than 6500m. Some of
these expeditions also involve “technical”
climbing and are for experienced alpine
climbers / mountaineers only.Technical
expeditions involve steep climbing at high
altitude, including mixed alpine climbing.
Participation on one of these expeditions
is subject to acceptance by one of our
high altitude mountaineering guides.
adventure travel
By its very nature adventure travel involves
an element of the unexpected. In remote
and developing countries do not expect
standards you are used to at home. Remote
areas are sometimes unpredictable and
itineraries may be altered. To get the most
out of your adventure it is important that
you are flexible, positive and eager to
take on all the challenges that arise. If you
are uncertain about your suitability for
this trip we recommend that you speak
with your consultant of travel agent.
important note
These trip notes represent the most
current information for this itinerary,
and may supersede any information in
the current brochure, including but not
limited to the itinerary and price.
DAY 21Transfer from BC to Yurt camp and Osh
After a demanding yet exhilarating climb we pack up our camp and transfer back to Osh and a well
earned shower. Time now to hopefully celebrate summit success!
meals: B,L
DAY 22Flight from Osh to Bishkek
We make a relatively early start this morning for the flight back to Osh.
meals: B
DAY 23Trip concludes in Osh
After breakfast trip concludes with a transfer to the airport for onward arrangements.
meals: B
This itinerary is subject to change with any change in Community regulations as well as Governmental changes and natural circumstances beyond our control.
requirements for members
To join this expedition prior mountaineering experience at altitude is considered essential.
Please contact your nearest World Expeditions office for more details.
physical fitness
For a challenging program physical fitness should be an ongoing thing, which should start
from a base at around 4 to 6 months prior to departure and increase to build maximum
endurance, stamina, flexibility and familiarity with the anticipated routine as much as possible
by your trip commencement. Three to five hard sessions of 40 to 60 minutes of physical
exercise per week such as running, hill walking, swimming, cycling or gym work will build
excellent aerobic capacity and overall endurance and stamina which are so important in
trekking and climbing at altitude. Overnight or multi day bushwalks ( on rough, loose and
rocky terrain) should be incorporated in your training regime also, this develops skill and
confidence on difficult terrain you will find on expedition. Rest and recovery, whilst at the
same time steadily increasing your routine and incorporating variety, are just as important
parts of the process if you intend to maintain and enjoy the regime for any duration. (We
hope that it will become a ‘lifetime’ thing.) With a solid training regime comes a more relaxed
disposition, more energy and usually better walking and breathing technique, which ultimately
leads to you having a great trip rather than some kind of survival experience. Likewise
overnight camping bushwalks encourage you to become self‑actualised and self‑reliant,
making the daily routine on trek, getting ready on time, keeping clean, helping out and so
on, much easier and less stressful. Plan early with us and prepare yourself physically on a
continuing basis right the way through, rather than putting it off for periods.
country information
Central Asia is a land of ancient civilizations. It was in this region that the ancient states of
Bactria and Khoresm, Sogd and Parthia thrived. Through these states the famous Great
Silk Road passed, linking Europe and Asia.Majestic cities with beautiful palaces, mosques,
minarets and madrasses were erected over thousands of years. Many of them were ruined,
but several withstood the conquerors and passing of time, and today stand as monuments,
reflecting their former glory.
Many of the artistic delights found in Central Asia are comparable with the architectural
masterpieces of Egypt, India, China and ancient Greece and Rome.Central Asia makes up
over 2% of the world’s land mass. After the collapse of the USSR, five independent states
were proclaimed: Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan and Turkmenistan.The
largest deserts and desert‑steppes in all of Asia, the mountain massifs of the Tien Shan and
5 – © 2016 World Expeditions Travel Group - Gavin Turner 10/10/2016 5:24:04 PM
peak lenin expedition
A high altitude expedition to Peak Lenin (7134m/23,405ft)
in the Pamirs, considered one of the world’s most achievable
7000m mountains, led by Soren Kruse Ledet.
the Pamir, caves and rivers are all found here.It is a land of diverse landscapes; deserts, give
way to oases and valleys of cotton plants, pomegranates, grapes and melons.Immense steppes
change smoothly into foothills and rise beyond the clouds to the eternal snows of its highest
peaks.Emerald steppes merge into dark‑green juniper forests and then, high in the mountains,
into the many coloured grasslands of alpine meadows.Kyrgyzstan is a mountainous, land
locked country which borders Kazakhstan to the north, Uzbekistan to the west, Tajikistan to the
southwest and China to the southeast. Approximately 75% of the population is Muslim.
Lenin Peak is the second highest peak in Kyrgyzstan, and was first climbed in 1928 by a
German expedition.
climate
Temperatures vary according to the different elevations and locations. Our expedition is
scheduled during the summer month of July.July and August are considered the optimum
months for stable weather and warmer temperatures; daytime temperatures range from 5 to
15°C in the mountains, or less if it is overcast, and evening temperatures drop to around 0 to
5°C.Higher up, temperatures will be variable and often cold and can easily reach minus 15C,
particularly when we are high on the mountain. It is essential therefore, that preparation for all
conditions; warm and cold, dry and wet, will ensure people are comfortable and can fully enjoy
the expedition. When we are travelling at lower elevations (approx 500‑1200m above sea level)
in summer months on desert or semi‑desert landscapes. Conditions are dry, and warm to hot
(30‑40°C+) with a drop in
temperature for the evening.
a typical day
Flexibility and co‑operation are key to the success of the expedition.Many factors are taken into
consideration, such as group acclimatisation and fitness, weather and snow conditions, before
a plan is set for each day on the mountain.In most cases climbing days will commence with very
early “alpine starts” when the weather is cold and snow conditions are generally at their best.
Your guide will brief you each evening, and discuss the plan of action and what is expected for
the coming day.
dietary requirements
Provided we are advised in advance of your departure we are able to cater for vegetarian diets
and can assist with medically recommended diets (allergies and intolerances). Please ensure
you discuss your requirements with us well in advance (at least 1 month prior to your trip) to
determine whether we can cater to such dietary requirements on your chosen adventure. Please
note that options are likely to be limited in very remote locations or alternatives may be more
expensive or unavailable. There may be times when those with special requirements may need
to provide their own food. We are unable to guarantee a peanut‑free or allergen‑free trip, and
therefore, we strongly encourage that travellers with life‑threatening or severe allergies take
all necessary medical precautions to prepare for the possibility of exposure. Passengers must
travel with all necessary medications for food allergies and be capable of self‑administering
these medications.
accommodation on the trip
This trip uses a mix of 2 and 3 star hotels. All rooms will be double occupancy. Due to the
remoteness of this expedition, lodging options are limited and can be considered rustic.
However all of the accommodation is both clean and comfortable. A limited number of single
rooms will be available in the hotels only, not at base camp or on the mountain. A single
supplement charge will be required for single room requests. If you are travelling solo we will
6 – © 2016 World Expeditions Travel Group - Gavin Turner 10/10/2016 5:24:04 PM
peak lenin expedition
A high altitude expedition to Peak Lenin (7134m/23,405ft)
in the Pamirs, considered one of the world’s most achievable
7000m mountains, led by Soren Kruse Ledet.
match you with another traveller of the same sex at no additional charge. Please ask your
consultant about availability.
what you carry
In your pack you will need to carry extra warm clothing (depending on the altitude, location and
weather), a rain jacket, water bottle, film and camera gear, valuables and personal items such
as sunscreen, lip‑eze etc. Whilst on the mountain you will be required to load carry to establish
camps, or carry extra gear in case of inclement weather. Your pack needs to be a minimum of
65litre capacity.
equipment required
Specialist gear required include walking boots and day pack (a comprehensive gear list is
provided in the pre‑departure information provided on booking).
acute mountain sickness
When we ascend above 2500 meters our bodies have to acclimatise to the decreasing amount
of the oxygen available. To allow our bodies to adjust we have structured our treks so that you
ascend slowly, allowing acclimatisation to occur. However, during the acclimatisation process,
you may experience some of the following symptoms.
• Headache
• Tiredness
• Disturbed sleep
• Loss of appetite/nausea
• Shortness of breath
• Cough
• Palpitation
• Swelling of the hands and face
Individuals acclimatise at different rates. Your best strategy is to take your time and drink plenty
of water. These symptoms may not indicate the onset of A.M.S. and if you experience them it
does not necessarily mean that you should not continue. All our group leaders have extensive
first aid training and we urge you to communicate with the group leader at all times should you
believe you have any symptoms in order that we can effectively monitor your symptoms. The
only cure for Acute Mountain Sickness is to descend.
Please note that your group leader has ultimate responsibility and may ask you to descend if
symptoms persist.
vehicles & safety
During the course of your trip, we will use a variety of vehicles, all of which are fit for purpose
and the conditions encountered. It should be noted that laws governing transportation safety
may differ from those in your home country and on occasion some vehicles may not have
seat belts fitted. While game viewing within a national park could be one example, public bus
transfers or specialised transport such as ‘tuk‑tuk’s’ could be another. Where seat belts are not
provided we strongly recommend that you hold tight to a fixed part of the vehicle at all times.
what’s not included
Lunch and dinner in Bishkek and Osh
Bottled water, aerated and alcoholic drinks
Eating utensils above base camp (bring mug, bowl and spork)
7 – © 2016 World Expeditions Travel Group - Gavin Turner 10/10/2016 5:24:04 PM
peak lenin expedition
A high altitude expedition to Peak Lenin (7134m/23,405ft)
in the Pamirs, considered one of the world’s most achievable
7000m mountains, led by Soren Kruse Ledet.
Items of a personal nature such as phone calls, laundry, etc.
Tips
Travel insurance
Visa’s
Airport & departure taxes
International flights & departure taxes
Snacks/energy gels/rehydration tablets etc for summit period (bring enough for a 3
day summit climb)
Personal climbing gear (boots, ice axe, harness etc)
Personal porter
Any and all costs associated with leaving the expedition early or any changes to the
itinerary as described
info nights
World Expeditions invites you to attend our inspiring adventure travel slide shows. These special
evenings are designed to inform and entertain and are hosted by our most experienced and
passionate adventure travellers and mountaineers. Ask our staff for a slide show schedule or
register on our website ‑ www.worldexpeditions.com. Shows can fill early so it is important to
register your attendance so we know to save a seat, or two!
private groups
The adventures featured in our brochures, and on our website, are just a starting point for
many of our private group travellers. Working closely with our Groups Department we can
organise custom designed itineraries for groups of friends, clubs, charity’s, schools or even
work colleagues. Our team will assist you with all aspects of your private group adventure from
itinerary design to group flights. Contact our team today.
subscribe to our e-newsletter
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You can do this online through our website, www.worldexpeditions.com or contact our office.
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trip availability
If this trip seems right for you then we encourage you to call us now to check availability as we
operate strictly small group adventures. Many of our adventures require us to secure services
on your behalf; such as permits, hotels and flights to name but a few. The demand for these
services is increasing each year making it difficult to join a trip last minute. To ensure we can
assist you onto your adventure of a lifetime we ask that you check your trip availability with our
team at your earliest convenience.
how to book
To book a World Expeditions trip, you will need to complete a booking form which is found at
the back of our brochure or can be downloaded from our website www.worldexpeditions.com.
On completion, fax or post the form to your nearest World Expeditions office along with your
non‑refundable deposit. World Expeditions has access to competitive airfares to Morocco.
Call your nearest World Expeditions office or travel agent for assistance with your travel
arrangements including flights, travel insurance and additional accommodation.
8 – © 2016 World Expeditions Travel Group - Gavin Turner 10/10/2016 5:24:04 PM