Reviews

Max is a fantastic guide, he stuck with us through a 6 day Backcountry ski trip to Jyrgalan, and there isn't a better guide out there. He not only kept us safe in the back country during active avalanche activity while taking us to amazing fresh powder in his favorite spots, he also knew great food spots, and was extremely knowledgeable across history, local events and current events. The whole group was thoroughly impressed by his professionalism, easy going personality, and we even got to see his giant smile when he's in the mountains. What an absolute treat.

Max—ski guide at Silk Road Guiding

Freeriders in Jyrgalan

We had a great time with Max. We did 4 days of ski touring in Jyrgalan and one in Almaty with him. Max has excellent knowledge of both areas and planned 5 great days of skiing for us as well as driving us to and from Almaty and Jyrgalan.

We always felt like Max’s plan for the day was challenging but totally within our capabilities. Every day he found us fresh tracks and fun lines to ski.

His preparation and communication always made us feel safe.

We will be recommending Max to other people!

Ski tracks on the snowy slope

Ski tourers on the snowy ridge in Jyrgalan

Max the guide was extremly attentive and patient. He bring the groupe to fresh deep snow every day !! He is experimented and he have a very good knowlege af the terrain. Lodging in Jyrgalan's guest house was perfect and the staff working there are super frendly and welcoming.

Max—ski guide at Silk Road Guiding

A group of skiers in the mountains

Max made the entire trip so amazing!!! I had no idea what to expect. He was so responsive, patient and knowledgeable leading up to the trip, answering all our questions. The skiing was awesome. Max knew how to plan the perfect day of skiing and always ensured safety was a top priority.

Beyond that, he imparted so much history of the area making everything so interesting. He can do anything. Very enjoyable person to spend time with as well! Highly recommend!!

Skitourer in the mountains

Splitboarder in Jyrgalan

This was my second ski touring trip with Max and all expectations were truly exceeded! This year we did 5 days ski tour in Jyrgalan village. Max is an excellent guide - super knowledgeable of the local area, safety conscious, and top athlete - a real expert of his craft. Max’s guiding abilities were paired with a seamless organisation of our trip - a top end-to-end service. I couldn’t reccomend Max more highly for anyone looking to get out there and explore. Thanks Max, and see you next year!

My friend and I did a week ski touring with Max in Jyrgalan (Kyrgysztan). Max is an excellent guide and planned a great trip for us. His knowledge of the area was impressive and he found us some of the best backcountry skiing we’ve ever done. He was an all round great addition to our trip and surprisingly good at Monopoly Deal for his first time playing! Thanks Max.

Mountain landscape in Jyrgalan

Max—ski guide at Silk Road Guiding—during the skitouring program in Jyrgalan

Two skiers in the mountains of Jyrgalan

Max went above and beyond throughout our trip to ensure that we were safe in the backcountry, had tons of fun, and experienced the local culture. He was extremely knowledgeable and flexible, adapting the trip’s plans to our needs. He has a deep understanding of the local terrain and avalanche conditions, so we knew we were safe in challenging situations. He has a knack for finding good snow too — it was over 2 weeks since the last storm but we still skied deep powder!

Yet another trip with Max and Katya has finished tremendously well. This time we've traveled to Jorgalan, Kirgizstan for 7 nights on a skitouring trip. Despite practically no new snow for two weeks we were able to ski fresh powder every single day. Max and Katya are, as always, extremely professional, adaptive and friendly, and that makes every journey with them remarkable. Highly recommended both for experienced riders seeking new experiences in Central Asia, and for novice who want to try off-piste skiing. Thanks!

Splitboarders in Jyrgalan

A group of skitourers in the mountains of Kyrgyzstan

It was our first time ice climbing and it was amazing! Big thanks to Katya!

We had a group of three people and everyone climbed twice.

Katya was super friendly and nicely taught us everything we need to know. And even made some photos and videos from drone. And of course it was very beautiful out there! =)

An ice climber climbs frozen waterfall

Katya—climbing guide at Silk Road Guiding—next to an icicle

An ice climber climbs Devichiy Slyozy waterfall

My partner and I had an amazing ice climbing experience with Silk Road Guiding! It was our first time and our wonderful guide Katya was very informative and taught us all the basics and provided us with all the necessary equipment. Since the tour was private we got to climb the frozen waterfall a couple times each which was great!! We used a top rope climbing system as well for the climb so always felt safe. 10/10 experience!!!

Climber climbs waterfall ice

A climber on rock and ice

Top rope waterfall ice climbing