1. How do I book an expedition to Lenin Peak?
To book an expedition, please send a request to climbing@ak-sai.com or fill out the form. A manager will contact you and answer all your questions. We will also require a scan of your passport and proof of insurance to prepare all the necessary documents before the expedition begins.
2. What are the rules for the payment procedure?
In case of booking, we require a prepayment from the total amount according the final invoice.
The rest of the balance must be paid not later than 1 month before the beginning of the expedition.
You can transfer money via bank account or make a payment online from the bank card (in both cases, the bank charges % for the service). Sometimes, partial payment for the tour is possible upon arrival in Bishkek or in Osh (this possibility is discussed in the process of correspondence).
Cancellation Policy:
In case of cancellation of the expedition for any reason, Ak-Sai Travel has the right to withhold 30% of the selected package of services provided to cover its costs.
3. What are the qualification requirements for climbing Lenin Peak?
The classical route to Lenin Peak does not involve steep rock or ice climbing but you always keep in mind that this is 7 thousand meters peak.
Ascenders should have:
– Good physical and functional conditions for a long time work at high altitude area.
– Experience in using crampons;
– Rope working skills;
– Group moving skills;
– Have knowledge on self-rescue on a snow slope and rise from an ice crack.
Experience in high-altitude climbing more than 6000 meters is advisable.
4. Is it possible to obtain border permit via Ak-Sai Travel Company separately from buying tour package?
“Ak-Sai Travel” Company does not provide border permit without buying package. Providing border permit we automatically take responsibility for a customer and hold it till the end of his stay in Kyrgyzstan.
5. Who need registration on the territory of the Kyrgyz Republic?
Foreign citizens are required to carry out the registration procedure on the territory of the Kyrgyz Republic within five working days from the moment of crossing the State Border of the Kyrgyz Republic.
Date and terms of exemption from registration for foreign countries you can find on our web site: https://ak-sai.com/info/Kyrgyzstan-visa
Registration on the territory of the Kyrgyz Republic, if it is necessary, is included into the cost of your package. Please take care that your passport was on time provided to the manager of the Ak-Sai Travel Company. Also please check preparedness of the registration list in your passport. Otherwise, a fine will be withheld from you for violation of the order of stay on the territory of the Kyrgyz Republic.
6. Will someone meet me at the airport?
At the airport in Bishkek / Osh you will be greeted by a representative of the “Ak-Sai Travel” company with the nameplate. He will also accompany you to the hotel, where you will check into the previously booked room.
7. Where is it better to exchange money for the Kyrgyz currency (SOM)?
Airports have 24-hours exchange offices, but the exchange rate there is usually lower. It’s better to exchange money in the city. On the way from the airport to the hotel, you can ask the driver to stop at an exchange office or, or you can go to any nearest bank in your free time.
8. What kind of food is provided at camps under Lenin Peak?
A balanced and delicious full board meal awaits you in our base camps. There is buffet in the Base Camp and in Camp 1 for breakfast lunch and dinner. In Camp 1, an early breakfast is specially provided for customers from 3:00 to 4:00 on request. If you purchase BASIC or COMFORT full packages you need to take care about high altitude food by yourself in advance. Or you can purchase high-altitude food at Camp 1 for an additional payment. Participants who purchase a group ascent on guaranteed dates receive a fixed set of high-altitude products at Camp 1.
9. What currency should I carry for expedition?
It is better to take US Dollars, because all prices are formed in this currency. You can also pay in Euro or KG SOM but the rate in the mountains will be significantly different from the rate in the city.
10. Where can I order porter services and how to pay for it?
From the Base Camp to the Camp 1, we use horses to carry loads. Porter service usually order at the Base Camp or Camp 1 the day before climbing and pay on the spot (3 USD per 1 kg). Porters to C2 and C3 are also contacted at Camp 1 the day before departure to Camps 2 and 3, usually at 6:00 PM. You can find the cost of porter services on our website under the “Additional Services” tab. Payment is made on site in cash.
11. What additional expenses should I expect?
Meals in the cities are not included in any package, you have to pay (around 10-15 USD per meal) on days when you will be in Bishkek or in Osh city. If necessary, you can purchase products for high-altitude camps, as well as gas cans, if it is not included into your package. Also all packages do not include the services of porters, an Internet connection, a bath at BC and Camp 1 and drinks in the bar. (See the “Additional Services” tab on the website).
12. Could I charge my gadgets at the Base Camp and Camp1?
At the Base Camp there is a permanent source of electricity: electric sockets are located in the dining room and in each tent. At Camp 1, electricity provides by the generator; gadgets can be charged in evening from 18:00 to 22:00.
13. Is it possible to purchase food and equipment for climbing in Bishkek or Osh?
Products can be purchased in Bishkek and in Osh. This can be done in supermarkets or at numerous bazaars. Do not forget that the amount of baggage carried on the flight Bishkek-Osh is limited. Equipment can be purchased only in Bishkek, in specialized stores, such as “Red Fox” http://redfox.kg/
14. What is the most favorable time for climbing?
Meteorological conditions under the Lenin Peak are unpredictable. Both months-July and August are considered favorable for the ascent. We can just recommend you have reserve days for waiting a good weather.
15. How does an electrical socket at the Base Camp and Camp 1 looks like?
– At the Base Camp and Camp 1, 220V, Type C, Euro Plug sockets are used.
Also there are European sockets Type F, Schuko, with grounding.
