22-Day Ski Expedition to Muztagh Ata (7,546 m), China
Join IFMGA-certified guide Maksim for an unforgettable ski mountaineering expedition to Muztagh Ata, the “Father of Ice Mountains,” in western China. This 22-day adventure offers a non-technical but high-altitude ascent on skis, combining cultural exploration with the challenge of summiting a 7,000+ meter peak.
Private
Pamir
22 Days
Jun - Aug
Very high
Intermediate
Highlights
- Ski from the summit of Muztagh Ata (7,546 m), one of the world’s highest skiable peaks.
- Experience 16 days of acclimatization and climbing on a non-technical but high-altitude route.
- Immerse yourself in Uyghur culture with a guided city tour of historic Kashgar.
Description
Nicknamed the "Father of Ice Mountains," Muztagh Ata (7,546 m) towers above the Pamir plateau in western China, offering one of the most unique opportunities in the world to ski from the summit of a 7,000-meter peak. Despite its impressive elevation, Muztagh Ata’s broad slopes and glaciated terrain make it a relatively non-technical ascent, ideal for experienced ski tourers seeking a high-altitude challenge.
The journey begins in Kashgar, a legendary Silk Road city where you’ll get a taste of Uyghur culture before driving the famed Karakoram Highway toward Subashi and Karakul Lake. From there, the trek to base camp at 4,400 m sets the stage for your gradual acclimatization and summit push.
Over 16 days are dedicated to acclimatization, load carries, and the summit attempt, all under the guidance of IFMGA-certified Maksim. You'll rely on skis or splitboard for travel and descent, sleeping in high-altitude tents and enjoying the support of a seasoned logistics team. The final ski descent from near the summit is a once-in-a-lifetime reward for your perseverance.
Whether you’re an experienced expedition skier or a climber looking to ski your first 7,000er, this is a deeply rewarding journey in one of the most remote and scenic corners of the world.
Interested? Request to book your spot today—spaces are limited and planning well in advance is essential.
Price includes
- Accommodation included
- Guiding fee
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Transport during the trip
- Transportation start and back
- Permit and entrance fees
Price details
- PRICE INCLUDES:
- ● All necessary permits and government taxes
- ● Ecoprotection fee
- ● Liaison Officer fee
- ● Professional IFMGA mountain guide
- ● All transport according to the program in private vehicles
- ● Camels or Jeep for luggage transport from Subashi to Base Camp and back
- ● Accommodation: 3 nights in a 4★ hotel in Kashgar (twin/double room) | 1 night in hostel or tents in Subashi (If in hostel: 2–4 persons per room)
- ● Meals: 10 days of meals in Base Camp | Full board en route and in Kashgar
- ● Accommodation in tents in Base Camp (with mattresses in the tents)
- ● All costs for the local Chinese guide, cook and helpers at Base Camp
- ● City tour in Kashgar
- ● Visa support
- NOT INCLUDED IN THE PRICE:
- ● International and domestic airfare
- ● Insurance
- ● Trip extension costs
- ● Porters in the high camps
- ● Cooking service beyond Base Camp
- ● Bar bills and laundry
- ● Tips for local staff
- ● Additional meals not mentioned in the program
- ● Bottled or canned drinks
- ● Visa fe
Meeting point
Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Kashgar
Arrival in Kashgar and meeting with your guide. Transfer to the hotel. Accommodation in a 4★ hotel, dinner included.
Day 2: Kashgar – Karakul Lake – Subashi (200 km / ~4 h)
Drive along the legendary Karakoram Highway, winding for several hours through the narrow Gez River gorge. Then you ascend to about 3,900 m along the shores of Karakul Lake, where you can often see horses, yaks and camels grazing on the rich pastures. Upon arrival in Subashi, accommodation in a hostel or tents.
Day 3: Subashi – Base Camp
Short transfer, then trekking.
● Trekking distance: approx. 12 km
● Walking time: 3–5 hours
Today you drive by car and meet the camel drivers or Jeep transport, load your luggage and then trek to Base Camp. The hike takes about four hours. Bright alpine flowers, curious marmots and beautiful mountain landscapes will accompany you on the way, and before you know it, you’ll arrive at Base Camp.
Overnight in tents at around 4,400 m.
Day 4 to 19: Acclimatization & Ascent (16 days)
These days are reserved for the ascent of Muztagh Ata and proper acclimatization.
● In Base Camp we provide tents, mattresses and food for 10 days (breakfast / lunch / dinner).
● In the high camps we provide tents for accommodation and full kitchen equipment for cooking.
The exact schedule of rotations and summit attempt will depend on weather, conditions and the guide’s decisions for safety.
Day 20: Base Camp – Subashi – Kashgar
After breakfast, hike down from Base Camp to Subashi. Your baggage will be transported by camels or Jeep.
A bus will be waiting in Subashi to take the group back to Kashgar.
Dinner and accommodation in a 4★ hotel.
Day 21: Sightseeing in Kashgar
Final day to explore Kashgar. City tour of the most interesting sites, including:
● The tomb of Abak Khoja
● The famous Kashgar Bazaar
● A magnificent mosque
● The unique old town with typical Uyghur-style houses
You can also enjoy local tea shops and watch traditional craftsmen at work.
Dinner and overnight in a 4★ hotel.
Day 22: Departure
Your fascinating adventure on Muztagh Ata has come to an end.
After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your departure.
We hope to see you again!
Details
Accommodation
Kashgar: 3 nights in a 4★ hotel (twin/double room)
Subashi: 1 night in hostel or tents
Base Camp: Tents with mattresses and meals for 10 days
High Camps: Expedition tents (self-cooking)
More info
- Booking deadline: At least 90 days before departure
- Visa support provided upon request
- Free Wi-Fi and battery charging at Base Camp
- Supplementary fee: $400 per participant of a different nationality in the group
- Single room supplement: $250
- Porters and cooking service at high camps not included
FAQs
How technical is the climb?
Muztagh Ata is considered non-technical, with moderate-angled slopes and no major objective dangers. The challenge lies in the altitude and endurance required.
Do I need prior 7,000m experience?
It’s not mandatory, but prior high-altitude and multi-day ski touring experience is highly recommended.
Is insurance required?
Yes. Mountaineering expeditions remain a serious challenge despite modern
equipment and logistics. We strongly recommend taking out comprehensive
travel insurance from a reliable company, including trip cancellation,
What is the skill and fitness level required?
Altitude is the main difficulty factor. Technically non-demanding, but requires excellent physical condition and prior ski mountaineering experience. Participants should be experienced ski tourers or splitboarders comfortable with glaciated terrain and multi-day expeditions. Prior high-altitude experience is strongly recommended. A high level of cardiovascular fitness is essential.
How far in advance should I book the trip? Is there a booking deadline?
We recommend finalizing your booking at least 90 days before your departure from your home country.
What are some recommended accommodations near our adventure location?
About the guide
Maksim
4.8
(7)
Mountain Guide
Mountains are an important part of my life. All my interests in life are somehow connected with mountains. I have been working with people in the mountains since 2013. From the very beginning as a mountaineering and downhill skiing instructor, and since 2020 as a licensed mountain guide. I work on mountaineering, freeride and ski tourism programs. I live in Chamonix, and I work in different mountain regions, depending on the season.
Languages
Russian | English
Certificates
IFMGA
What people are saying about Maksim
Nina
Maksim was very friendly and well-organized. He had very good knowledge about Mont Blanc and mountains in general, the gear and how to handle Grand Couloir. We always felt safe climbing with him and would gladly join him for another climb in the future.
James
Fantastic Trip - Maksim is excellent, tailored the plan to the weather superbly. Exceeding every expectation - a mind blowing week in the Alps.
Eleftherios
Higginson
Maksim is the best guide we could have hope for during our summit of Mont Blanc. His expertise, confidence, and ability to lead was masterful. He was in lockstep with our goals and really made it all possible. I highly recommend him for your journey. Thank you to everyone who helped make this once-in-a-lifetime experience possible.
Timur
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