Packing list for Tajikistan, travel insurance for Tajikistan, and taking your belongings

What to take to Tajikistan: brief

To pack and check

• Documents: a passport valid for at least another 6 months and a few copies. For many travelers, an e-visa and sometimes a GBAO permit are required for mountainous areas such as the Pamir Highway.
• Money: Tajik somoni (TJS). Withdrawing cash is usually possible in Dushanbe, but outside of it it is very difficult and cash is very important. US dollars are good to bring along as a backup.
• Clothing: layering is important. From warm valleys to cold high mountains in the Pamirs: temperature differences are significant, so merino wool, thermal clothing, a warm coat, and a waterproof jacket are important.
• Personal care: sunscreen and lip balm with a high SPF, and possibly Vaseline for dry skin at altitude. UV radiation at high altitudes is strong.
• Shoes: sturdy hiking boots are important if you are doing the Pamir Highway or trekking routes. For other adventures, sturdy, comfortable shoes are useful.
• Medicines and travel first-aid kit: comprehensive first-aid kit, ORS, altitude-related medication if necessary, hand sanitizer, and personal medicines.
• Outdoors and handy items: reusable water bottle, water filter (optional), and sleeping bag liner.
• Technology and equipment: Type C and F adapters (like in Europe) and a power bank.
• Transport: an international driving license is useful for 4x4 trips.

To consider

• Offline maps; coverage is limited in mountainous areas.
• A buff or scarf for dust on the Pamir Highway.
• Extra time; travel is often slower than expected.

What knowledge comes in handy when traveling to Tajikistan?

• Tajikistan is one of the most mountainous countries in the world, with large parts of the country located in the Pamir and Fann mountains. Altitude therefore plays a major role: altitude sickness is a real concern when traveling above 2,500 meters. Knowledge of the symptoms and what to do in case of altitude sickness is important.
• The Pamir Highway is largely unpaved and rugged. Travel distances are not measured in kilometers, but in hours. A 300 km drive easily takes 10 to 12 hours, so the journey can take longer than you think.
• The population is predominantly Tajik (related to Persian), which influences language and culture. In the Pamirs, people speak various Pamiri languages. Russian is also still widely used.

Are there mosquitoes in Tajikistan?

• Yes, especially in lower valleys (towards the border with Afghanistan), and in the summer, quite a few mosquitoes can be found. There is a small risk of seasonal malaria here.
• At high altitudes, they are virtually absent, and you are safe from mosquitoes.
• More about protection against mosquitoes and insects.

Are there sandflies in Tajikistan?

• In warmer, sandy areas on the border with Afghanistan, sandflies can occur. There is a risk of Leishmaniasis.
• More about sandflies and sand fleas.

Can you buy DEET in Tajikistan, or other mosquito repellents?

• In Dushanbe usually yes, but in remote areas the supply is limited. It can be beneficial to bring your own.

Can you buy a joint or weed in Tajikistan, or bring it to Tajikistan?

• Cannabis is completely illegal in Tajikistan. There are many heavily guarded drug checkpoints along the borders.
• The penalties for possession and importation can be severe or cost you a lot of money, even for small quantities.