Motorbike rental in Tajikistan: on the Pamir highway from Osh to Dushanbe

With its impressive peaks, high plateaus and large high-altitude lakes, the Pamir Highway is undeniably one of the most fascinating in the world. This legendary road, which links Osh in Kyrgyzstan to Dushanbe, the capital of Tajikistan, is an ancient route on the Silk Road. In this article, we share our tips for renting motorcycles in Tajikistan and organizing your bike trip in the Pamir: the best motorcycle rental agencies in Osh and Dushanbe, road conditions in Tajikistan, documents and equipment to prepare, etc. Prepare yourself for a memorable experience, where every turn reveals a breathtaking new landscape!

Why riding the Pamir highway?

Before discovering Tajikistan, we dreamt of snow-capped peaks and long, dusty roads! In reality, we found much more: vast fertile valleys, home to charming villages, as well as numerous historical and prehistoric sites, testifying to the country’s cultural richness. But what touched us most was the warm welcome and generosity of the Pamir people. So if, like us, you like to get off the beaten track, explore vast wild spaces and meet authentic people, don’t hesitate! Tajikistan is the ideal terrain for a motorcycle trip! Take a look at our recommendeditinerary for a 2-week trip.

Renting a motorcycle in Tajikistan or Kyrgyzstan?

The second-highest road in the world, the Pamir Highway runs for over 1,200 km through the Pamir region, from Dushanbe in Tajikistan to Osh in Kyrgyzstan.

Since 2023, the border between Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan has reopened, making it possible to travel between Osh and Dushanbe via the Kyzyl Art border crossing. Nevertheless, given the conflicting geopolitical situation between the two countries, be sure to check that the border is open at the time of your trip, and what steps you need to take. We update Kyrgyzstan-Tajikistan border crossing information here.

So which way to go on the Pamir route? Is it better to rent a motorcycle in Kyrgyzstan or Tajikistan?

From Dushanbe to Osh, altitude gain is gradual, so acclimatization is easier. In the opposite direction, starting from Osh, the route is more spectacular as you reach 4000 m more quickly, but you’ll need to be more vigilant for symptoms of altitude sickness. It’s also worth noting thatit’s easier to find a motorcycle rental agency in Kyrgyzstan, as the offer is larger and more varied (see our selection of rental agencies in Bishkek and Osh here). Please note that not all Kyrgyz agencies authorize border crossings, for insurance and breakdown service reasons. Be sure to check! Rental agencies will also sometimes charge you extra if you don’t return the bike to its starting point.

To prepare for your road trip in Kyrgyzstan, we recommend our Explore Kyrgyzstan guide to the country’s 24 most beautiful itineraries.

What you need to know before renting a motorcycle in Tajikistan

What documents do I need to drive a motorcycle in Tajikistan?

To drive in Central Asia, it is preferable (but not compulsory) to have an international driving license, especially in case of problems. Rental motorcycles are normally insured, but be sure to check what type of insurance is included. At the very least, make sure you have third-party liability insurance (covers only damage caused to third parties: pedestrians, cyclists, other motorists, etc.) and insurance covering damage to the rental motorcycle, particularly in the event of a collision.

Note that locals rarely insure their cars, so we strongly recommend that you take out your own personal travel insurance(see our travel insurance comparison). In the event of an accident or health problem, the insurance will cover your treatment abroad and repatriation if necessary. Be sure to check that your insurance covers motorcycle accidents.

To travel in Pamir, you’ll also need a GBAO permit. Please note that the procedures for crossing the border into Kyrgyzstan may change from time to time, so we update the information on border crossings in this article.

Road conditions on and around the Pamir Highway

When leaving the country’s major cities (Dushanbe, Khorog, etc.), expect to drive on roads in poor condition. Even though most of the Pamir road is asphalted, deformations and potholes are very common. Be careful, because there’s a tendency to speed up on asphalt stretches, but that’s a big mistake! You can quickly be surprised by the huge holes in the pavement. Apart from the M41, you’ll be riding mainly on dirt tracks in poor condition, put to the test by frequent flooding and landslides. It’s best to have a lightweight, trail-type motorcycle to travel with complete peace of mind on the roof of the world!

What’s the ideal bike for a motorcycle road trip in Tajikistan?

A lightweight, trail-type motorcycle is ideal for a motorcycle trip in the Pamir. Roads are poorly maintained and put to the test by the mountainous climate (landslides, floods, frost, etc.). We recommend renting a motorcycle with good suspension, high ground clearance and off-road tires.

Where can I rent a motorcycle in Dushanbe?

Dushanbe is the capital and largest city of Tajikistan. To our knowledge, there are no motorcycle rental agencies in Dushanbe. Most of the available offers are provided by Kyrgyz rental agencies. Find our recommendations for motorcycle rental agencies in Kyrgyzstan here.

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