DESCRIPTION

There are Austrian maps available for purchase online for parts of the Wakhan. Get the 'Koh-E Pamir Topographische karte'. Search for it on google.

ACTIVITIES

- paragliding
- hike
- thermals
- xc

weather

Strong valley breeze most days from mid-day on in spring and summer. I saw numerous dusties late afternoon.

access

The Wakhan Corridor is one of the more remote places to fly in the world. But, assuming you get there, you gain permission to fly and the blessings of local tribal elders, you will have an unforgettable experience. Fly into Dushanbe. Hire transport to Khorog, Tajikistan. Get an Afghan visa. Cross the border into Ishkashim. Hire transport to get you up the Wakhan. It's a two day drive up the Wakhan on bumpy 4WD to get to Ptukh and Sarhad.

regulation

DO NOT ATTEMPT TO FLY ANYWHERE NEAR THE TAJIK/AFGHAN BORDER! YOU MAY BE SHOT AT! An opium smuggler in a powered PG was shot down by border patrol a few years ago. Keep your mountain XC flights a safe distance away from the border and you should probably notify the local Afghan border police forces in advance of your desires to fly. They will probably want to come watch. Corruption runs rampant. Prepare to offer bribes.