Reviews
★★★★
We booked a trip to this wonderful country. Our guide was Ernis. We met his lovely family and he showed us everything we needed to see. Although his English wasn’t very good, we managed to communicate. He was so protective of us and made sure we were ok every step of the way. So thank you for the trip, the beautiful people, your beautiful soul. We had such a great time!
★
Abdulmazhid is really kind and nice but we had many problems during our trip, all of them caused by the fact that he "sold" our group to another driver -Ergash- who is extremely unpleasant and a thief. Abdulmazhid was always extremely polite but he did not solve any of the problems - honestly, the only possible solutions would have been choosing a different driver in the first place OR changing the driver when problems arose
★★★
The first week of our 13-days trip (Pamir Highway) was great. Good English, good car en good driver. The briefing about the program was in summary and could be better. He didn`t know about bording procedures between Tadzjikistan and Kirgistan. We were stocked for 27 hours and had to sleep in the car.
The last 5 days the communication was getting worse. The driver didn`t say a word to us. Sometimes there was no meal. We had to arrange it ourselves. At last they didn`t bring us to our destination Almaty. Unexpectedly they left us at the border, because there insurance papers were not valid. We had to solve their problems on ourselves at own costs.
At the beginning of the tour they did not pay in full, although I asked to pay at the beginning of the tour, everything was going well, I even showed a place that was not in the program, when we arrived at the border we could not go through because it was a holiday, but we solved all the problems, they immediately decided to throw us and go to Tajikistan without paying the money for the tour, I worked with many tourists but this was the first time I encountered such a thing. Life principle, what a hello, such an answer!
★★★★★
We had a wonderfull 8 day trip with Turat and his son Abdulmazhid on the Pamir Highway from Osh to Dushanbe. Thank you Turat for being so kind and patient, for the careful and safe drive, for the care for us, for the good choice of home stays, for the quick and prompt communication, for all the information provided during the trip! We felt very safe on the road and enjoyed the time spent with Turat and Abdulmazhid. Highly recommend Turat services!
S
★★★★★
Turat helped us to arrange our amazing 13 day Pamir Highway tour. Although Turat was not our driver I can attest to his honesty, knowledge and great work ethic. Before departing we changed our itinerary several times and Turat was always quick to respond and happy to adjust our plan. We requested an English speaking driver and ended up with the most friendly and knowledgeable person that anyone could hope for. Not only did we see some of the most beautiful and remote areas of Tajikistan, but we learned so much about the history and culture - thanks to our driver Baktiyar.
We actually ran into Turat by chance during our road trip and he made every effort to assure that we were satisfied with the trip thus far. Everything on the itinerary was carried out as planned and the car we were given was in great condition - more than capable for driving on Tajikistan’s back roads. The price was fair considering the distance and roads that we covered during our trip and the fact that we had the added bonus of an English speaking driver.
Turat is simply the best you can get to help plan a Pamir Highway road trip and Baktiyar became more like a friend rather than just our driver. Thank you Turat for everything you do!
J
★★★★★
We spent 10 days in Kyrgystan with Turat and his son Abdulmazhid. We went from Bishkek to Lenin Peak, and back to Bishekek crossing the entire country twice. Absolutely amazing experience!
Turat is an extremely experienced driver (he has the entire country road system printed in his mind), and at the same time very prudent in particular where roads are in bad conditions.
Turat and Abdulmazhid both speak good English and really took the extra mile for us. They have also been incredible travel companions, very professional, accommodating, patient,
and thanks to their stories we learned a lot about Central Asia history and local culture.
Already looking forward for a next adventure with them. Highly recommended!
F
★★★★★
Do yourself a favour and book your tour with Turat.
I a female solo traveller and a photographer, and have specific needs. I have used a lot of drivers around the world (India, Nepal, Serbia, Romania, Cambodia etc) and Turat is right there at the top in terms of customer service delivery and professionalism.
He’s an experienced driver who is safe, trustworthy, patient, and funny. Yes, he’s the complete package and I’m really happy to call him my friend now.
For 10 days we drove around the Pamir Highway and he was very sensitive to my needs and would accommodate them. Sometimes, while on the road - I would spot a photo but wouldn’t say anything because I had been asking to stop the car so many times. But Turat would pick up on this and ask if we should stop. But he’s more than a driver…it’s more like hanging out with a friend.
His son Abdulmazhid also came along for the journey, and he was amazing as well. He has a beautiful character…very humble, warm and friendly. He was so accommodating and helpful in every respect – e.g. interpreting, helping with luggage, going for walks.
During the 10 days, we never ran into any problems. They say that getting sick on the Pamir is something everyone experiences. Not me. All food and accommodation was safe, and I actually have a weak stomach!
There is no doubt in my mind that Turat and his son Abdulmazhid enhanced my experience of the Pamir Highway, and I will always be grateful for that. I loved it so much, that I will be going back.
D
★★★★★
The tour with Turat and his son Abdulmazhid was really great! Turat is an experienced driver and the itinerary that we followed was also very good. We did the "Pamir Highway Tour from Bishkek to Dushanbe, 14 Days" in opposite direction from Dushanbe to Bishkek, because then you have more time to acclimatize before you reach the Ak-Baital Pass (4.655 meter). His son helped Turat on our trip and did that very good, so it was like having 2 guides for the price of 1. :) Both speaks good English, so it was easy to communicate with them.
One highlight of the trip was the overnight stay at Turat`s house where we also met his very kind wife. She took very good care of us while we were there.
You see a lot of beautiful sights in Tajikistan and Kyrgyzstan without the feeling that you are in a rush to be in time at the next overnight place. For us it was the perfect itinerary.
The whole journey was not like 2 guides and 2 guests, but as a group of 4 friends. We had a wonderful time and will never forget this time we had together.
Overall I really recommend Turat as your guide and I also recommend the "Pamir Highway Tour from Bishkek to Dushanbe, 14 Days", but then in opposite direction. You will have the journey of your life!
G
★★★★★
Turat was not only a great and experienced driver, but a real friend for us. He drove us safely from Bishkek to Dushanbe in a 10 unforgettable days trip, with amazing conversation that really helped us to understand local culture and lifestyle (Turat speaks good English). He was very flexible and patient to fulfill our special requests, and we also had the opportunity to visit his house and family. Turat`s son also came with us for the whole trip, adding a young`s point of view to our conversation`s and turning this trip in real fun. Strongly, strongly recommended!
F
★★★★★
Turat was an excellent guide and driver. Very professional, and well prepared, always helpful and considerate. We went with him from Dushanbe to Osh, had a great trip, completely without problems.
Happy to recommend Turat.
T
★★★★★
Turat was an amazing guide through an amazing landscape. He was able to guide me through Kyrgyzstan, the Pamir, and the Wakhan Corridor as only a local can. Although he speaks English fluently, he was patient enough to endure my mediocre Russian throughout the journey. His son Nurik accompanied us and was a great host as well.
He put together an outstanding itinerary with lots of surprises and a mix of comfortable homestays and hotels. I`d gladly recommend Turat to anyone looking for a knowledgeable and entertaining guide.
J
★★★★★
Turat was a wonderful driver and guide. He has been doing this for 10 - 15 years and grew up in the area. He loves the Pamirs and knows them well. He was able to find accommodations for my husband who is paraplegic and myself at every stop. He was willing to change plans when we wanted and was very helpful in every way.
V
★★★★★
Unfortunately we did not meet Turat after all due to unforeseen circumstances beyond his control. I am really sorry for that.
While we were preparing for the trip online, Turat was always very helpful and provided exceptional service. He organised two replacement drivers for us who were also great. Overall we had a wonderful trip in the Pamir.
B
★★★★★
Turat is the best Pamiri driver and best person you can find in the Pamir highway. He is an experienced driver and knows the road, villages, people, etc. during all the Pamir trip very well. He is open-minded and thinks about your needs every moment. Correct English and interesting discussions.
Our travel wouldn´t be the same without him. We have very good memories from our travel! We hope to see Turat again and to do more and more trips with him (maybe Afganistan or to look for Snow Leopard)! Thanks Turat.
We highly recommend him! Be their guests and your travel will be unforgettable.
David and Sandra.
D
★★★★★
Our group of three completed a successful eleven day Pamir Highway trip with Turat in his Landcruiser. We found Turat to be very professional in his dealings with us. He responded promptly during online negotiations , offered a fair price and delivered on everything he promised. Turat is very experienced at travelling the Pamir and has great connections with accommodation house owners and he always sought the best deal for us, his clients. He helped organise a birthday celebration along the highway. We would certainly use him again and strongly recommend him to other travellers.
L
★★★★★
To anyone considering going through anywhere in Central Asia (and particularly Tajikistan) please read this review: Turat is incredible - he is the best guide, and even more, the best friend, you can find in Central Asia.
We are two Canadian brothers - one of whom just graduated with a masters from Cambridge and the other who is studying at McGill in Canada. We are adventurous, we love culture and an experience, but we also have high standards. Turat delivered on every point - when we had a rough day he was compassionate and would give extra care and offer help wherever possible. I am rarely impressed by service, but this man should give lectures at Harvard Business School. In his own words, everything "Is Possible".
When we wanted to go off the beaten path and explore, he was always happy to help. He has extensive experience everywhere and appears to have connections across every region - to the governments and various important people - you always feel safe and we avoided much trouble at borders and checkpoints because he simply knew people and seemed to hold a lot of respect from them.
Turat is the father of a family and all the money he earns from these trips goes towards supporting the well-being of his family and community. He understands deeply how tourism and travellers benefit the local economy and people and makes sure to make that connection.
Please reach out to me personally if you have any questions about my time with Turat, but I can assure you that you will enjoy your trip if you go with Turat.
Thank you Turat
Anyone reading this please share with anyone else you know going to the region - I truly appreciate what this man is doing and want to support him.
K
★★★★★
Turat, with excellent English, is an amazing guide and driver along the Pamir highway. I was a difficult customer at times and he kept his cool and managed to resolve all my concerns and went out of his way to get me what I wanted. He was very friendly and helpful and planned ahead to get me vegetarian food and western toilets. He really knows the area well and is knowledgeable on history, customs and culture. He showed me so much and explained so much more. His driving skills are excellent and I always felt safe. As a solo female traveller it was good to know that he was there when I needed him but he kept his distance and allowed my privacy but provided companionship when I needed it. He was more a friend than a guide. I got to see his birthplace and his current home and met is lovely wife. Thank you Turat for a wonderful experience.
L
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