Kyrgyzstan - Shepherd's Way

Brian Ingle, Southampton, England UK

A fantastic adventure in an amazing country. The tour took us through a varied environment of the dry rocky lowlands to the lush green of the higher mountains. It was a step back in time as we encountered the hospitality and welcome of traditional nomadic people in their yurts and shared the open plains with wild horses. The locals seemed as interested in us as we were in them as tourism in this area is truly in it's infantsy. We exchanged a ride on their horses for a ride on our bikes and although maybe didn't enjoy the taste we certainly appreciated the kind offer of fermented mares milk.

With long periods away from any villages or shops it is great to have the support of the excellent redspokes' staff and vehicles to carry all the food, water and camping equipment. I look forward to my next trip!

Bob Harrison, Portesham, Weymouth, England

'I have been on 4 group trips and this was the best by some way. Scenery was spectacular, varied and stunningly beautiful throughout the entire trip. There were no bus transfers apart from the start and end. Biking was excellent both in terms of the fitness challenges and technical challenges presented. Camp sites were in beautiful locations and camping was fun and comfortable for someone who is an occasional rather than regular camper.

The tour leader related well to all parties and successfully kept the stronger and weaker cyclists reasonably together without being unduly restrictive. The support team were great.'

Sunil Bhopal, Newcastle upon Tyne

My first time on an organised tour, and my first time in Central Asia. I highly recommend the camaraderie, organisation and excitement on this redspokes tour. Great fun. Do it!

Jennifer Parsons, Stockport, Cheshire, England UK

Kyrgystan is a wonderful place, and this trip, was the first redspokes had made with an official tour group. Despite some teething problems, the trip was exciting, culturally rewarding, and gave us day after day of amazing scenery. It was tougher than the 6/10 billing due to the majority of the route being off-road, but don't let that put you off!

Anne Hillman, Southport, England

'This was my first tour with redspokes and I wasn't disappointed. A wonderful country.'