Next Trip:

Feb 1 – 8, 2026

CONFIRMED

Ski Touring in Kyrgyzstan with Fay Manners

Welcome to the Tian Shan Mountains

What matters most is mindset.

Fay Manners didn’t start skiing properly until she was 28. At first, she says, she felt foolish for starting so late, like she was always chasing to catch up.

But the mountains don’t care when you begin.

What counts isn’t how others define “possible,” but how willing you are to break through your own barriers.

That mindset has carried her further than she ever could have imagined: and this February, the same mindset may lead you deep into the Tian Shan mountains of Kyrgyzstan.


For one week in February 2026, a small group of twelve will join Fay Manners to carve fresh lines into this wild range, supported by two IFMGA guides and immersed in the raw, unfiltered beauty of Central Asia.

You’ll step into a winter world few will ever see, skiing between snow-draped peaks that roll out to the empty horizon. Between them lies a land of yurts warmed by fire, horses carrying skiers into untouched valleys, and stars so bright they feel close enough to touch.

Safety

As well as being led by pro athlete Fay, the trip safety will be managed by two IFMGA mountain guides.

Arrival and departure

This trip will begin and end in Bishkek. Aim to arrive on the first day by 3 pm - on the last day you are free to leave whenever.

Meet Fay Manners

 A stunning photograph of renowned alpinist Fay Manners on a ski touring expedition in the Kyrgyzstan's Tien Shan mountains. She is expertly navigating a pristine, snow-covered slope, showcasing the deep powder conditions and remote alpine terrain. The image captures the authentic, exclusive, and adventurous spirit of the backcountry skiing trip, reinforcing the professional guidance and transformational experience of this premium expedition. Her focused and confident expression, along with the vast mountain landscape behind her, emphasizes the expert leadership and unmatched challenge of this Tien Shan mountains adventure.
 A stunning photograph of renowned alpinist Fay Manners on a ski touring expedition in the Kyrgyzstan's Tien Shan mountains. She is expertly navigating a pristine, snow-covered slope, showcasing the deep powder conditions and remote alpine terrain. The image captures the authentic, exclusive, and adventurous spirit of the backcountry skiing trip, reinforcing the professional guidance and transformational experience of this premium expedition. Her focused and confident expression, along with the vast mountain landscape behind her, emphasizes the expert leadership and unmatched challenge of this Tien Shan mountains adventure.
 A stunning photograph of renowned alpinist Fay Manners on a ski touring expedition in the Kyrgyzstan's Tien Shan mountains. She is expertly navigating a pristine, snow-covered slope, showcasing the deep powder conditions and remote alpine terrain. The image captures the authentic, exclusive, and adventurous spirit of the backcountry skiing trip, reinforcing the professional guidance and transformational experience of this premium expedition. Her focused and confident expression, along with the vast mountain landscape behind her, emphasizes the expert leadership and unmatched challenge of this Tien Shan mountains adventure.

Most people know Fay Manners as one of the most legendary female alpinists on the scene. First female ascent of the Phantom Direct Route in Mont Blanc, first ascent of Trango II in Pakistan. (V. gnarly). And, six first descents in different parts of the Alps which have never been repeated.

Quite literally - making history.

But less talked about:

She didn’t start out breaking mountaineering records.

She started out as a very normal data consultant, which gave her the freedom to move to Chamonix to pursue mountaineering seriously. (If anyone can tell you about going from the ordinary to the extraordinary, it’s Fay).

So you'll come back from Kyrgyzstan not only with an ace profile pic and epic stories to tell the grandkids, but with lessons you can apply to achieve the extraordinary in your career & beyond.

And, from Fay:

“Ever since my climbing trip to Kyrgyzstan in 2024, I have been intrigued by the endless couloirs tucked between the huge granite spires.
I’ve been so excited to return. It’s a place where mountains roll out endlessly, and nomadic traditions are still woven into daily life.
This February I’ll be leading a small group into the Tien Shan for a week of yurt-based ski touring, fire-lit meals, and wild silence.
I’d love you to join me.”

Go beyond

Day 1 - 2

Arrival & Ascent

Mountains are the home of the greatest adventure because they are unpredictable and full of potential.

Especially those of the Tian Shan.

So although you are visiting the Tian Shan at the very best time of year, you won't exactly know which days you'll be on the skidoos, or on horses up the valley, or which days will burst open to bright skies and virgin snow.

Some nights - again, it's not possible to say which - the sky will be so clear that you’ll almost be able to hold the Milky Way in the palm of your hand. On other, snowier, evenings you might be crowded around the yurt-fire, drinking tea and sharing stories.

***

On day one, you arrive in Bishkek, gateway to the Tian Shan. You'll meet the rest of the group and Fay, and mountain transfer takes you to Jyrgalan, a remote Kyrgyz village at the edge of the range. You’ll settle into yurts on the village edge, share a fire-lit meal, and begin to adjust to the rhythm of mountain life.

The next morning you’ll meet your two IFMGA guides for avalanche training, then warm up with a tour close to the village.

By evening, skidoos haul you deep into the mountains to a high-altitude yurt camp at 3,000m, perched in silence beneath a sky of blazing stars.

Day 1 - 2

Arrival & Ascent

Mountains are the home of the greatest adventure because they are unpredictable and full of potential.

Especially those of the Tian Shan.

So although you are visiting the Tian Shan at the very best time of year, you won't exactly know which days you'll be on the skidoos, or on horses up the valley, or which days will burst open to bright skies and virgin snow.

Some nights - again, it's not possible to say which - the sky will be so clear that you’ll almost be able to hold the Milky Way in the palm of your hand. On other, snowier, evenings you might be crowded around the yurt-fire, drinking tea and sharing stories.

***

On day one, you arrive in Bishkek, gateway to the Tian Shan. You'll meet the rest of the group and Fay, and mountain transfer takes you to Jyrgalan, a remote Kyrgyz village at the edge of the range. You’ll settle into yurts on the village edge, share a fire-lit meal, and begin to adjust to the rhythm of mountain life.

The next morning you’ll meet your two IFMGA guides for avalanche training, then warm up with a tour close to the village.

By evening, skidoos haul you deep into the mountains to a high-altitude yurt camp at 3,000m, perched in silence beneath a sky of blazing stars.

Day 1 - 2

Arrival & Ascent

Mountains are the home of the greatest adventure because they are unpredictable and full of potential.

Especially those of the Tian Shan.

So although you are visiting the Tian Shan at the very best time of year, you won't exactly know which days you'll be on the skidoos, or on horses up the valley, or which days will burst open to bright skies and virgin snow.

Some nights - again, it's not possible to say which - the sky will be so clear that you’ll almost be able to hold the Milky Way in the palm of your hand. On other, snowier, evenings you might be crowded around the yurt-fire, drinking tea and sharing stories.

***

On day one, you arrive in Bishkek, gateway to the Tian Shan. You'll meet the rest of the group and Fay, and mountain transfer takes you to Jyrgalan, a remote Kyrgyz village at the edge of the range. You’ll settle into yurts on the village edge, share a fire-lit meal, and begin to adjust to the rhythm of mountain life.

The next morning you’ll meet your two IFMGA guides for avalanche training, then warm up with a tour close to the village.

By evening, skidoos haul you deep into the mountains to a high-altitude yurt camp at 3,000m, perched in silence beneath a sky of blazing stars.

Day 3 - 4

High Camp

From the high camp, the mountains open.

Endless powder fields, untouched basins, and descents few outsiders will ever carve. Evenings are for warmth, Kyrgyz hospitality, and the sauna under a magnificent canopy of stars.

On the fourth day, Fay will lead deeper routes chosen for their rarity and purity. The night closes with stories around the stove, snow falling softly outside.

Day 3 - 4

High Camp

From the high camp, the mountains open.

Endless powder fields, untouched basins, and descents few outsiders will ever carve. Evenings are for warmth, Kyrgyz hospitality, and the sauna under a magnificent canopy of stars.

On the fourth day, Fay will lead deeper routes chosen for their rarity and purity. The night closes with stories around the stove, snow falling softly outside.

Day 3 - 4

High Camp

From the high camp, the mountains open.

Endless powder fields, untouched basins, and descents few outsiders will ever carve. Evenings are for warmth, Kyrgyz hospitality, and the sauna under a magnificent canopy of stars.

On the fourth day, Fay will lead deeper routes chosen for their rarity and purity. The night closes with stories around the stove, snow falling softly outside.

Day 5 - 6

Exploration

Skidoos take you toward the village, linking long, untouched descents that drop into lower valleys. In the afternoon, you’ll switch pace: horse-accessed skiing, an extraordinary fusion of nomadic tradition and modern freeride.

The following day brings our crescendo: catskiing or skidoo-assisted touring, squeezing the last lines from the range. Lungs full to bursting, spirit stretched.

Day 5 - 6

Exploration

Skidoos take you toward the village, linking long, untouched descents that drop into lower valleys. In the afternoon, you’ll switch pace: horse-accessed skiing, an extraordinary fusion of nomadic tradition and modern freeride.

The following day brings our crescendo: catskiing or skidoo-assisted touring, squeezing the last lines from the range. Lungs full to bursting, spirit stretched.

Day 5 - 6

Exploration

Skidoos take you toward the village, linking long, untouched descents that drop into lower valleys. In the afternoon, you’ll switch pace: horse-accessed skiing, an extraordinary fusion of nomadic tradition and modern freeride.

The following day brings our crescendo: catskiing or skidoo-assisted touring, squeezing the last lines from the range. Lungs full to bursting, spirit stretched.

Day 7 - 8

Reflection

The journey home begins with a transfer back to Bishkek, but not before a kayak across a lake with the snowy Tian Shan on the horizon.

And that evening: a hot shower, a brilliant dinner, and one last night together in Bishkek.

On the final morning, for those of you who are active we may meet for a morning jog or walk in Bishkek, and then coffee before heading home.

Day 7 - 8

Reflection

The journey home begins with a transfer back to Bishkek, but not before a kayak across a lake with the snowy Tian Shan on the horizon.

And that evening: a hot shower, a brilliant dinner, and one last night together in Bishkek.

On the final morning, for those of you who are active we may meet for a morning jog or walk in Bishkek, and then coffee before heading home.

Day 7 - 8

Reflection

The journey home begins with a transfer back to Bishkek, but not before a kayak across a lake with the snowy Tian Shan on the horizon.

And that evening: a hot shower, a brilliant dinner, and one last night together in Bishkek.

On the final morning, for those of you who are active we may meet for a morning jog or walk in Bishkek, and then coffee before heading home.

What's Included

7 nights accommodation (yurts + final night hotel)

7 nights accommodation (yurts + final night hotel)

7 nights accommodation (yurts + final night hotel)

Guiding by Fay Manners + 2 certified IFMGA guides

Guiding by Fay Manners + 2 certified IFMGA guides

Guiding by Fay Manners + 2 certified IFMGA guides

All meals in camp

All meals in camp

All meals in camp

Transfers within Kyrgyzstan

Transfers within Kyrgyzstan

Transfers within Kyrgyzstan

Avalanche kit rental (beacon, probe, shovel)

Avalanche kit rental (beacon, probe, shovel)

Avalanche kit rental (beacon, probe, shovel)

Catski / skidoo / horse access as per itinerary

Catski / skidoo / horse access as per itinerary

Catski / skidoo / horse access as per itinerary

Professional trip media pack

Professional trip media pack

Professional trip media pack

Whats Not Included

International flights to/from Bishkek

International flights to/from Bishkek

International flights to/from Bishkek

Personal ski equipment and clothing

Personal ski equipment and clothing

Personal ski equipment and clothing

Travel insurance (mandatory)

Travel insurance (mandatory)

Travel insurance (mandatory)

Alcohol and personal expenses

Alcohol and personal expenses

Alcohol and personal expenses

Your Expedition at Glance

Date

Feb 1 – 8, 2026

Group Size:

Only 12 adventurers maximum

Fitness Level:

Confident backcountry skiers

Backup Plan:

Weather contingencies built into every day

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Kyrgyzstan safe to visit?

Yes. Kyrgyzstan is considered safe, and Loaf runs all trips with certified guides, avalanche protocols, and professional logistics.

Is Kyrgyzstan safe to visit?

Yes. Kyrgyzstan is considered safe, and Loaf runs all trips with certified guides, avalanche protocols, and professional logistics.

Is Kyrgyzstan safe to visit?

Yes. Kyrgyzstan is considered safe, and Loaf runs all trips with certified guides, avalanche protocols, and professional logistics.

Can I join alone?

Absolutely. Many guests come solo and leave with a fresh mindset and close friends. For this reason, we keep the group small (12 seats) for that tight community feel.

Can I join alone?

Absolutely. Many guests come solo and leave with a fresh mindset and close friends. For this reason, we keep the group small (12 seats) for that tight community feel.

Can I join alone?

Absolutely. Many guests come solo and leave with a fresh mindset and close friends. For this reason, we keep the group small (12 seats) for that tight community feel.

Can I join if I’m not an expert skier?

This trip is for confident backcountry skiers. If you’re unsure, press “chat now” in the header and ask away.

Can I join if I’m not an expert skier?

This trip is for confident backcountry skiers. If you’re unsure, press “chat now” in the header and ask away.

Can I join if I’m not an expert skier?

This trip is for confident backcountry skiers. If you’re unsure, press “chat now” in the header and ask away.

How fit do I need to be?

Expect 800–1,200m of vertical per day and off-piste slopes up to 35°. You don’t need to be a pro, but solid backcountry experience is required.

How fit do I need to be?

Expect 800–1,200m of vertical per day and off-piste slopes up to 35°. You don’t need to be a pro, but solid backcountry experience is required.

How fit do I need to be?

Expect 800–1,200m of vertical per day and off-piste slopes up to 35°. You don’t need to be a pro, but solid backcountry experience is required.

What gear do I need?

Touring skis (~110mm), avalanche kit (beacon, probe, shovel), helmet, goggles, warm layers. A detailed packing list will be sent upon booking.

What gear do I need?

Touring skis (~110mm), avalanche kit (beacon, probe, shovel), helmet, goggles, warm layers. A detailed packing list will be sent upon booking.

What gear do I need?

Touring skis (~110mm), avalanche kit (beacon, probe, shovel), helmet, goggles, warm layers. A detailed packing list will be sent upon booking.

What’s included?

Accommodation (yurts + hotel), guiding (2× IFMGA + Fay), transfers, meals in camp, avalanche kit rental, and athlete leadership. Flights and personal equipment are not included

What’s included?

Accommodation (yurts + hotel), guiding (2× IFMGA + Fay), transfers, meals in camp, avalanche kit rental, and athlete leadership. Flights and personal equipment are not included

What’s included?

Accommodation (yurts + hotel), guiding (2× IFMGA + Fay), transfers, meals in camp, avalanche kit rental, and athlete leadership. Flights and personal equipment are not included

Is there Wi-Fi?

Yes, in the village lodge. No Wi-Fi in the high mountain yurts. Thank goodness. That’s part of the magic.

Is there Wi-Fi?

Yes, in the village lodge. No Wi-Fi in the high mountain yurts. Thank goodness. That’s part of the magic.

Is there Wi-Fi?

Yes, in the village lodge. No Wi-Fi in the high mountain yurts. Thank goodness. That’s part of the magic.

How do I get there?

Fly into Bishkek (FRU). We will meet you on Feb 1 and handle transfers to Jyrgalan.

How do I get there?

Fly into Bishkek (FRU). We will meet you on Feb 1 and handle transfers to Jyrgalan.

How do I get there?

Fly into Bishkek (FRU). We will meet you on Feb 1 and handle transfers to Jyrgalan.

What if the weather is bad?

The Tien Shan has varied terrain, so guides adapt to conditions. Safety always comes first.

What if the weather is bad?

The Tien Shan has varied terrain, so guides adapt to conditions. Safety always comes first.

What if the weather is bad?

The Tien Shan has varied terrain, so guides adapt to conditions. Safety always comes first.

Do I need local currency?

Hardly. Most costs are covered. Bring a little cash for snacks or drinks, and for tips for the guides.

Do I need local currency?

Hardly. Most costs are covered. Bring a little cash for snacks or drinks, and for tips for the guides.

Do I need local currency?

Hardly. Most costs are covered. Bring a little cash for snacks or drinks, and for tips for the guides.

Can you help with flights?

Yes. Loaf can help you find the best flights for your trip.

Can you help with flights?

Yes. Loaf can help you find the best flights for your trip.

Can you help with flights?

Yes. Loaf can help you find the best flights for your trip.

How do I apply?

There are only 12 seats. Apply in 60 seconds (we’ll set up a quick call to confirm fit and chemistry). If the trip is already full, you’ll be added to the waitlist. Spots are strictly limited.

How do I apply?

There are only 12 seats. Apply in 60 seconds (we’ll set up a quick call to confirm fit and chemistry). If the trip is already full, you’ll be added to the waitlist. Spots are strictly limited.

How do I apply?

There are only 12 seats. Apply in 60 seconds (we’ll set up a quick call to confirm fit and chemistry). If the trip is already full, you’ll be added to the waitlist. Spots are strictly limited.

Ski Touring in Kyrgyzstan

Feb 1 – 8, 2026

Twelve Seats

Choose Your Path

Join the trip

Join world class alpinist Fay Manners for eight days of untouched powder, nomadic yurts, and transformation in the Tien Shan mountains.

Led by Fay Manners

February 1-8, 2026

2x IFMGA guides

Maximum 12 guests

60-second application • Quick fit check • Fully refundable deposit

Not quite ready?

Get exclusive early access to upcoming expeditions in Jordan, Norway, and beyond.

By subscribing you agree to get updates from Loaf. Read our privacy policy here.

Subscription Confirmed.

By subscribing you agree to get updates from Loaf. Read our privacy policy here.

Subscription Confirmed.

By subscribing you agree to get updates from Loaf. Read our privacy policy here.

Subscription Confirmed.

©Loaf Adventures, 2025

21Barau-Made

London

©Loaf Adventures, 2025

21Barau-Made

London

©Loaf Adventures, 2025

21Barau