ULTIMATE CENTRAL ASIA

BIRDING WITH MIKSTURE - KYRGYZSTAN, KAZAKHSTAN & TURK-

MENISTAN

8.th April – 24.th April 2013

Welcome to the ultimate desert-, semi-desert and mountain birding in Kyrgyzstan,

Kazakhstan and Turkmenistan with Miksture

TUKAKI 2013 – Birding Kyrgyzstan, Kazakhstan and Turkmenistan in Central Asia provides some of the most

prolific and rewarding birding – and, some of the most wanted species known as “dream-species.” Central

Asia is known as an essential destination for anyone with a serious interest in Palearctic birds, and these

three countries in combination providing the opportunity to see a high concentration of Central Asian spe-

cialties amidst unsurpassed beautiful scenery. In addition there is a great selection of species present in

Southern Europe and South Siberia – and of course, the endemic species and subspecies as many European

birds are on the edge of their range here.

TUKAKI is a journey that provides excellent birding in these three great countries, and Miksture knows

thoroughly the locations and the birds of course. Each country, each region we visit during this journey is by

itself worth a journey, we simply just have chosen to offer a 3-in-one packet as its possible and at the same

time excellent value for money. In order to give you the most rewarding birding it’s the best habitats for

the desert, semi-desert and mountainous species in Central Asia: Turkmenistan provides the best desert

birding in central Asia, Kazakhstan the best semi-desert species and Kyrgyzstan along with its gorgeous

mountains is of course the hot spot for the mountain birds. We have done these areas for many years, and

we continue to improve and keep the route updated, so our clients get the best logistic and itinerary – in

short: the best and most rewarding birding. Our team provides good meals, and we always make the jour-

ney as comfortable and smooth as possible. We don’t make any compromises, however we always make

priority not to flush and frighten the birds.

Time of year is perfect!

Tour start: In Copenhagen, Denmark 8.th April 2013, or Bishkek 9.th April 2013. Departure from other

countries is of course possible, and to meet in Istanbul or Bishkek. Pls contact Miksture for further details –

we would be happy to organize and assist to book the flight!

Tour leader: Miksture/Michael Westerbjerg Andersen

Friendly greetings

Miksture/Michael Westerbjerg Andersen, Bishkek 26.th July 2012

Central Asian birding when it’s best!

Prior departure Miksture mail a detailed list of birds. Meanwhile the numbers and species of birds seen

during this tour is equivalent to previous Miksture tours – these reports can be found at

www.travellingbirder.com or at our Miksture website: www.miksture.com

Kyrgyzstan: Here one finds the best mountainous birding in Central Asia. Target birds is Ibisbill, Pine Bunt-

ing, Upland Buzzard, Oriental Turtle Dove, Black-throated Accentor, White-winged Grosbeak, Dipper

(White-throated Dipper), Brown Dipper, Hume's Yellow-browed Warbler, Fire-fronted Serin, Lammergeier,

Himalayan Griffon Vulture, Songar Tot, Brown Accentor, Altai Accentor [Himalayan Accentor], Gü-

ldenstädt’s Redstart, Eversmann's Redstart, Blue-capped Redstart, Brandt's Mountain Finch (Brandt's Rosy

Finch), Plain Mountain Finch (Hodgson's Rosy-Finch, Hodgson's Mountain Finch), White-tailed Rubythroat,

Severtzov´s Tit Warbler, Red-mantled Rosefinch, Azure Tit, Rufous-naped Tit, etc. One of the most reward-

ing and great experiences is to find roosting Demoiselle cranes. This time of year provide the best option

for seeing this magnificent bird on its way from the winter quarters in Northern India to its breeding

grounds in Kazakhstan and Mongolia.

Kazakhstan: First half of April is together with medio July my favorite time of year for birding Kyrgyzstan

and Kazakhstan. The early migrants already turned up, thickets and bushes hide migrants and provide chal-

lenging and exciting birds – everything can occur, so to speak The spring makes the vegetation fresh and

green, the light clear and sunny excellent for photographing not blurred by heat – the temperature is mod-

erate and comfortable for birding. The leaves yet not appeared hiding the birds in the Turenga forest –

providing good views of woodpeckers, Turkestan Tits, Yellow-eyed Pigeon. In Konchengel the bustards are

displaying and overhead Black-throated thrushes and Demoiselle Cranes migrate northwards. The latter

species is one of our target birds during this journey as we will find them roosting in good numbers in East-

ern Kyrgyzstan. Southern Kazakhstan is famous for the best semi-desert birding with rare species occurring

locally in the highest numbers found in Central Asia: The seemingly endless semi-desert plain of Taukum

provides good and impressing birding e.g. two species of Penduline Tits and numbers of raptors along the

roads: Booted Eagle, Black-eared Kite, Steppe Eagle and Long-legged Buzzard. In Konchengel we make

camp near waterhole and at our campsite there is an interesting selection of semi-desert birds: Caspian

Plover (breeding here), Greater Sandplover, Demoiselle Crane, Black-bellied Sandgrouse, Pin-tailed Sand-

grouse (rare), Pallas Sandgrouse, good numbers of larks i.e. both species of short-toed larks and even

White-winged Lark, Indian Sparrow, more species of wheatears, Desert Warbler, etc. In the village migrants

hide in the gardens, and almost everything can turn up. Konchengel-area is one of the strongholds of

Macqueen’s Bustards and of course this is a target bird in April where they display and perform great enter-

tainment.

Turkmenistan: Best desert birding in Central Asia, in addition several northwards migrating species plus a

selection of species uncommon or rare in other parts of Central Asia. Apart from the desert species the

mountainous Kopet Dag border zone to Iran is among the least explored areas of Central Asia, and might

bring goodies like Snow Pigeon, Horsfield's Cuckoo, Wire-tailed Swallow, Radde's Accentor, etc. Main target

birds are: Pygmy Cormorant, Purple Heron, Glossy Ibis, Caspian Snowcock, See-see Partridge, Black-winged

Pratincole, Red-wattled Lapwing, White-tailed Lapwing, Whiskered Tern, Blue-cheeked Bee-eater, Desert

Lark, Oriental Skylark, White-throated Robin, Rufous Scrub-robin, Pied Bushchat, Finch’s Wheatear, Varia-

ble Wheatear, Pied Wheatear, Rusty-tailed Wheatear, Streaked Scrub-warbler, Sykes’s Warbler (in very

high densities), Olivaceous Warbler, (c. 15 birds per hectare estimated at Amu-Darya River), Upcher’s War-

bler, Hume’s Whitethroat, Eastern Orphean Warbler, Menetries’s Warbler, Eastern Rock Nuthatch, Indian

Golden Oriole Oriolus kundoo, Bay-backed Shrike, Pander’s Ground-jay, Saxaul Sparrow, Pale Rock-sparrow,

Asian Desert Sparrow, Crimson-winged Finch, Desert Finch, Plain Leaf Warbler, etc. Another advantage of

birding Turkmenistan this time of year is the occurrence of species like most warblers and buntings which

are present here, while not yet appeared in Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan, etc.

Pygmy Cormorant, Black Stork, Glossy Ibis, Ruddy Shelduck, Ferruginous Duck, Dalmatian Pelican, Booted Eagle,

Black-eared Kite, Steppe Eagle, Bearded Vulture,Himalayan Vulture, Eurasian Black Vulture, Shikra, Steppe Eagle,

Eastern Imperial Eagle, Upland Buzzard, Long-legged Buzzard (dark morph), Saker Falcon, Barbary Falcon,

Macqueen’s Bustard, Demoiselle Crane, Himalayan Snowcock, Ibisbill, Greater Sandplover, Caspian Plover, Cream-

colored Courser, Black-winged Pratincole, Red-wattled Lapwing, White-tailed Lapwing, Pallas’s Gull, Whiskered

Tern, White-winged Tern, Pallid (Striated) Scops-owl, Eurasian Scops-owl, Yellow-eyed Stock Dove, Hill Pigeon, Ori-

ental Turtle Dove, Egyptian Nightjar, See-see Partridge, Chukar, Daurian Partridge, Ring-necked Pheasant (the real

stuff), Pallas’s Sandgrouse (Steppehøne), Black-bellied Sandgrouse, Pin-tailed Sandgrouse, Blue-cheeked Bee-eater

(many), European Bee-eater (many), European Roller (many), White-winged Woodpecker, Richards Pipit, Bimaculat-

ed Lark, Oriental Skylark, Masked Wagtail, Citrine Wagtail, Common Rock-thrush, Blue Rock-thrush, White-throated

Robin, Common Nightingale ssp hafizi, Rufous Scrub-robin, Black Redstart ssp phoenicuroides/rufiventris, Siberian

Stonechat, Pied Bushchat, Finsch’s Wheatear, Variable (Eastern Pied) Wheatear, Pied Wheatear, Rusty-ailed Wheat-

ear, Isabelline Wheatear, Desert Wheatear, Streaked Scrub-warbler, Blyth’s Reed-warbler, Clamorous Reed-warbler,

Sykes’s Warbler (many), Olivaceous Warbler, Upcher’s Warbler, Common Chiffchaff ssp tristis, Lesser Whitethroat

aap halimodendri, Hume’s Whitethroat (Sylvia althaea), Eastern Orphean Warbler, Menetries’s Warbler, Eastern

Rock Nuthatch, Brown Dipper, White-throated Dipper, Indian Golden Oriole Oriolus kundoo, Isabelline Shrike, Turke-

stan Shrike, Bay-backed Shrike, Long-tailed Shrike, Southern Grey Shrike, Pander’s Ground-jay, Brown-necked Raven,

Rose-coloured Starling (many), Saxaul Sparrow, House Sparrow ssp bactrianus, (Asian) Desert Sparrow, Pale Rock-

sparrow, Red-fronted Serin, (Grey-headed) European Goldfinch ssp paropanisi , Crimson-winged Finch, Desert Finch,

Black-throated Thrush (many), Songar Tit, Azure Tit, Rufous-naped Tit, Turkestan Tit, White-winged Grosbeak,

White-tailed Rubythroat, Eversmanns Redstart, Blue-capped Redstart, Güldenstädt’s Redstart, Blue Whistling

Thrush, White-browed Tit Warbler, Plain Mountain Finch, Brandt’s Mountain Finch, Mongolian Finch, Red-mantled

Rosefinch, Alpine Accentor, Black-throated Accentor, Altai Accentor, Brown Accentor, Asian Desert Warbler, Azure

Tit, Turkestan Tit, Black-headed Penduline Tit, White-crowned Penduline Tit, Water Pipit ssp.coutelli(ssp. blakistoni i

TienShan), Red-headed Bunting, Pine Bunting, Grey-necked Bunting, etc. Possible rarities as Radde’s Accentor, Plain

Leaf Warbler, Scaly-bellied Woodpecker, Wire-tailed Swallow, etc.

Active birding! Early up, luncbreak, and short siesta if its hot. No climbing, but participants should be ready for

shorter or longer hiking in different types of terrain in order to find the birds.

Desert, wetlands, Turanga forest, mountains and semi-desert.

Comfortable to hot and dry in the desert, Can be cold in the mountains.

Comfortable guesthouses and hotels. More nights in tents.

EXCELLENT!

Central Asian dreamspecies, beautiful desert- and mountainous landscapes. Interesting mammals, reptiles, flora and

creeps. Central Asian culture and hospitality – Silk Road history and few tourists.

This photo of Demoiselle Cranes and the shepherd is taken medio April in the area we visit during TUKAKI 2013...

Day 1. 8.th April: Departure Copenhagen or meeting in

Istanbul

Day 2. 9.th April: Welcome to KYRGYZSTAN Arrival Bish-

kek. Fishponds. Night in guesthouse, Bishkek

Day3. 10.th April: Bishkek – Karakol. Night in guest-

house, Karakol

Day 4. 11.th April: Karakol – Tamga, Demoiselle Crane &

mountain birding. Night in guesthouse, Tamga

Day 5. 12.th April: Barskaun Gorge – Güldenstädts Bo-

nanza. Night in guesthouse, Tamga

Day 6. 13.th April: Tamga – Bishkek. Night in guest-

house, Bishkek

Day 7. 14.th April: KAZAKHSTAN Bishkek – Konchengel,

Taukom. Night in tents, Konchengel

Day 8. 15.th April: Koncehngel – Zhelturanga. Night in

tents, Turanga forest

Day 9. 16.th April: Zhelturanga – Almaty. Night in hotel,

Almaty

Day 10. 17.th April: TURKMENISTAN Almaty – Ashgabat.

Night in hotel, Ashgabat

Day 11. 18.th April: Ashgabat – Repetek. Night in tents,

Repetek-area

Day 12. 19.th April: Repetek – Panders Ground Jay.

Night in tents, Repetek-area

Day 13. 20.th April: Repetek – Ashgabat. Night in hotel,

Ashgabat

Day 14. 21.th April: Ashgabat – Kopet Dag Mnts. Night

in tents, Kopet Dag Mnts

Day 15. 22.th April: Kopet Dag Mnts. Night in tents, Ko-

pet Dag Mnts

Day 16. 23.th April: Kopet Dag – Ashgabat, Night in ho-

tel, Ashgabat

Day 17. 24.th April: Heading home – Welcome home!

Day-to-day program Miksture always try to make the journey according to program, but sometimes it can be necessary to change

routes, and order of the locations. Miksture always try to optimize the birding hence we can add extra loca-

tions or change locations. One month before departure Miksture mail an updated program. Miksture is of

course always ready to answer questions and for more information. Please feel free to contact us. Please note

following meals provided during the days is agreed with the place where you stay. B (Breakfast), L (Lunch) and

D (Dinner)

Day 1: Departure Copenhagen

8.th April: We fly to Bishkek, the capital of Kyrgyzstan with Turkish Airlines THY via Istanbul. It’s possible to de-

part from another airport and meet in Istanbul airport, or meet in Bishkek tomorrow. Welcome to Kyrgyzstan

Kyrgyzstan is one of the former republics in former USSR. Bordering its big neighbor in East – China, Kazakhstan

– north, Uzbekistan – West and Tadzhikistan in SW., bordering Kazakhstan, China, Tajikistan and Uzbekistan.

Kyrgyzstan is a landlocked country in Central Asia. It lies between latitudes 39° and 44° N, and longitudes 69°

and 81° E. It is farther from an ocean than any other country in the world although it does not contain the ab-

solute farthest point from any ocean. That spot lies in the Xinjiang region of Northwestern China. The moun-

tainous region of the Tian Shan covers over 80% of the country with the remainder made up of valleys and ba-

sins. The mountains are evident and beautiful! Few places on earth reveal such unspoiled and beautiful moun-

tains. The mountain chain in this part Tien-Shan (Heaven Mountains) is shared with China. Issyk-Kul Lake in the

north-eastern Tian Shan is the largest lake in Kyrgyzstan and the second largest mountain lake in the world af-

ter Titicaca. The highest peaks are in the Kakshaal-Too range, forming the Chinese border. Peak Jengish Cho-

kusu, at 7,439 m, is the highest point and is considered by geologists to be the northernmost peak over 7,000

m in the world. Bishkek in the north is the capital and largest city, with approximately 900,000 inhabitants. The

principal river is the Kara Darya, which flows west through the Fergana Valley into Uzbekistan. Across the bor-

der in Uzbekistan it meets another major Kyrgyz river, the Naryn. The confluence forms the Syr Darya, which

originally flowed into the Aral Sea. As of 2010[update], it no longer reaches the sea, as its water is withdrawn

upstream to irrigate cotton fields in Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, and southern Kazakhstan. The Chu River also briefly

flows through Kyrgyzstan before entering Kazakhstan. The climate varies regionally. The south-western area is

very hot in summer, with temperatures reaching 40 °C. The northern foothills are temperate and the Tian Shan

varies from dry continental to polar climate, depending on elevation. Kyrgyzstan is a poor country compared to

Kazakhstan and Turkmenistan – no oil and gas resources makes life more problematic, but the population –

both ethnic Kyrgyz and Russians are incredible hospitable and friendly. Here too the Silk Road in centuries

formed the civilizations and even today travelers are welcomed. Kyrgyzstan is a poor country compared to Ka-

zakhstan – no oil & gas makes life here more problematic, but the population – both ethnic Kyrgyz and Russians

are incredible hospitable and friendly. Here too the Silk Road in centuries formed the civilizations and even to-

day travelers are welcomed. Travel conditions in Kyrgyzstan are less comfortable than in Kazakhstan but our

team and arrangement makes tour and our stay to pure pleasure. We have done these tours for many years

and know Kyrgyzstan as our own back-pocket. We look forward to show you some of the most beautiful parts

of this magnificent country!

Day 2: KYRGYZSTAN Arrival Bishkek. Fishponds

9.th April: Upon arrival in Bishkek Manas International Airport transfer to guesthouse in central Bishkek and

breakfast. After lunch and a short city tour we make an excursion to the former fishponds north of the city.

Good numbers of waterfowls mainly shorebirds and ducks are present, Pallas’s Gull, and high numbers of

roosting migrants like Citrine Wagtails, White Wagtail ssp dukhanensis, Masked Wagtails, Yellow Wagtail, Grey

Wagtail, Turkestan Shrikes, Azure Tit, Hume's Leaf warbler, (Siberian) Chiffchaff ssp tristis, Black-throated

Thrush, overflying Demoiselle Cranes, etc. Remaining afternoon is spend in the center where we can shop, ex-

change money, relax and maybe caught a glimpse of roosting Blue-capped Redstarts in the city park. Night

guesthouse. BLD

Day 3: Bishkek - Karakol

10.th April: After breakfast we leave Bishkek and drive towards Karakol at eastern shore of Issyk-Kul Lake. En-

route we bird, and first stop probably is Tokmok where we will spend some hours in a wetland-area. There are

other good areas enroute and we stop depending on your wishes and which species which could be interesting

for you; there are good areas for Pallas Sandgrouse as well! In the late afternoon we arrive to our guesthouse

in Karakol. BLD

Day 4: Karakol-area - Tamga. Demoiselle Crane

11.th April: We use the entire day in the area. One of the most rewarding and great experiences is to find

roosting Demoiselle cranes. This time of year provide the best option for seeing this magnificent bird on its way

from the winter quarters in Northern India to its breeding grounds in Kazakhstan and Mongolia. Other target

birds is Ibisbill, Pine Bunting and several montane species Golden Eagle, Upland Buzzard, Oriental Turtle Dove,

Ruddy Shelduck, Black-throated Accentor, White-winged Grosbeak, Grey Wagtail, Dipper (White-throated Dip-

per),Brown Dipper, Greenish Warbler, Hume's Yellow-browed Warbler, Red-billed Chough, Alpine Chough,

Fire-fronted Serin. Needless to say there would be excellent photo opportunities this day. In the afternoon we

drive to our guesthouse in Tamga. Tamga is a quiet village on the south coast of Issyk-Kul. The guesthouse is

situated with excellent view to the surroundings, in south, the towering Jetim-Bel range at the end of Barskaun

valley. Across the road there is an apricot orchard which feathered inhabitants make frequently visits to the

gardens, e.g. Black-throated Thrush, Hoopoe, Common Mynah, etc. Five minutes from the guesthouse is the

lakeshore. There are always plenty of water birds to observe. The fields east of the village are excellent for

birding. In spring and autumn the area teems with roosting migrants: Black-eared Kite, Common Quail, Com-

mon Pheasant, Oriental Turtle Dove, Hoopoe, Citrine Wagtail ssp. M.c.calcarata, (Grey-headed) Goldfinch,

more species of buntings, etc. In our guesthouse it’s possible to try real Russian sauna and there is Azure Tit in

the garden. Night in Tamga. BLD

Day 5: Barskaun Gorge – Güldenstädt’s Redstart Bonanza

12.th April: We spend most of the day in the mountainous areas south of Tamga. There are more roads leading

to good bird locations. The most accessible but less charming is the Kumtor Mine road. Species to be seen in-

clude: Himalayan Snowcock, Black Vulture, Upland Buzzard, Lammergeier, Himalayan Griffon Vulture, Golden

Eagle, Long-legged Buzzard, Songar Tot, Altai Accentor [Himalayan Accentor], Güldenstädt’s Redstart, Black

Redstart, Eversmann's Redstart, White-tailed Rubythroat (if arrived), Carrion Crow, Fire-fronted Serin, Red

Crossbill, Brandt's Mountain Finch (Brandt's Rosy Finch), Plain Mountain Finch (Hodgson's Rosy-Finch, Hodg-

son's Mountain Finch) and Rock Bunting. Accommodation and night in guesthouse Tamga. BLD

Day 6: Tamga – Bishkek.

13.th April: Early up and off we go to Bish-

kek. Priority still goes to the birds and of

course we know several birding hot spots

on the way! We arrive to Bishkek in late

afternoon or in evening depending on our

pace. We eat a good dinner and taste

some of the local firewater before turning

to sleep. Accommodation in hotel, Bish-

kek. BLD

Day 7: Bishkek – Konchengel, KAZAKHSTAN

14.th April: Early morning we leave Bishkek and Kyrgyzstan. This day our goal is the endless semi-desert plain of

Taukum in southern Kazakhstan. On our 5-hour drive good and impressing birding along the road is awaiting,

e.g. good numbers of raptors along the road: Booted Eagle, Black-eared Kite, Steppe Eagle and Long-legged

Buzzard. In Konchengel we make camp near waterhole and at our campsite there is an interesting selection of

semi-desert birds: Caspian Plover, Greater Sandplover, Demoiselle Crane, Little Ringed Plover, Black-bellied

Sandgrouse, Pin-tailed Sandgrouse (rare), Pallas Sandgrouse; usually rare but in the past four years it has been

fairly common here! Hoopoe, good numbers of larks and pipits i.e. both species of short-toed larks, Calandra

Lark, Bimaculated Lark, White-winged Lark, Indian Sparrow, more species of wheatears, Desert Warbler, Span-

ish Sparrow, etc. In the village migrants hide in the gardens, and almost everything can turn up. Konchengel-

area is one of the strongholds of Houbara Bustards and of course this is a target bird in April where they display

and perform great entertainment. Night in tents in Konchengel – arranged by Mikstures team of course. BLD

The Republic of Kazakhstan, is a country in Central Asia and Eastern Europe; hence the extreme western part is

situated in Europe and Western Palearctic. The ninth largest country in the world by land area, it is also the

world's largest landlocked country; its territory of 2,727,300 square kilometers is larger than Western Europe.

It is neighbored clockwise from the north by Russia, China, Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan, Turkmenistan, and also

borders on a significant part of the Caspian Sea. Although Kazakhstan does not share a border with Mongolia,

its most easterly point is only 38 kilometers from Mongolia's western tip. The terrain of Kazakhstan ranges

from flatlands, steppes, taigas, rock-canyons, hills, deltas, and snow-capped mountains to deserts. Its popula-

tion density is less than 6 people per square kilometer. The capital was moved in 1998 from Almaty, Kazakh-

stan's largest city, to Astana. Kazakhstan is a giant ornithological too. More than 500 species has been seen in

Kazakhstan. In the SE corner of Kazakhstan there is mountains, however birding her compared to Kyrgyz moun-

tains are less profitable.

Day 8: Konchengel – Turenga Forest

15.th April: After morning birding and breakfast, transfer

(3 hours’ drive – depending on bird stops enroute) to

Zhelturanga Forest; the regions special forest-type, with

its rare birds. The species list for this area includes some

of the most sought after birds in Central Asia: White-

winged Woodpecker, Eversmann´s Dove (Yellow-eyed

Pigeon [F: Eastern Stock Pigeon]), Saxaul Sparrow and

Turkestan Tit. There are several other interesting species

in the Turenga Forest: Azure Tit, Shikra, Short-toed Ea-

gle, European Scops Owls, Pallid Scops Owl (best time of

the year, and a great experience to listen and watch this

great bird), Shikra, Steppe Shrike, Booted eagle, White-

tailed Eagle. Night in tents. BLD

Day 9: Turenga Forest – Almaty

16.th April: We return towards East and drive along the north shore of Ili River. Long day drive and we arrive to

hotel in Almaty in the evening. We make good birding stops along the drive. Night at hotel in Almaty BLD

Day 10: Almaty – Ashgabat. TURKMENISTAN

17.th April: New adventures waits! Turkmenistan is really a pleasant country to visit. Very much have changed

in the past years, and nowadays it’s a country way into the modern society. Still keeping the Silk Roads tradi-

tions for hospitality, and the locals welcoming foreigners and tourists. Until 1991, it was a constituent republic

of the Soviet Union, but since independence in 1991 it has come a long way. It is bordered by Afghanistan to

the southeast, Iran to the south and southwest, Uzbekistan to the east and northeast, Kazakhstan to the north

and northwest and the Caspian Sea to the west. It possesses the world's second largest reserves of natural gas

resources, and is a very strong economic country developing infrastructure and the society in a rate unsur-

passed by the other Central Asian countries. Although it is wealthy in natural resources in certain areas, most

of the country is covered by the Karakum (Black Sand) Desert, and in south along the border to Afghanistan and

Iran – the Kopet Dag mountains. At 488,100 km2 (188,500 sq. mi), Turkmenistan is slightly smaller than Spain

and it lies between latitudes 35° and 43° N, and longitudes 52° and 67° E. Over 80% of the country is covered

by the Karakum Desert (Black Sand). The center of the country is dominated by the Turan Depression and the

Karakum Desert. The dry Kopet Dag Range, along the southwestern border, reaches 2,912 meters at Kuh-e

Rizeh (Mount Rizeh). The Great Balkhan Range in the west of the country and the Köýtendag Range on the

southeastern border with Uzbekistan are the only other significant elevations. The Great Balkhan Range rises to

1,880 meters at Mount Arlan and the highest summit in Turkmenistan is Ayrybaba in the Kugitangtau Range –

3,137 meters. Rivers include the Amu Darya, the Murghab, and the Tejen. The climate is mostly arid subtropical

desert, with little rainfall. Winters are mild and dry, with most precipitation falling between January and May.

The area of the country with the heaviest precipitation is the Kopet Dag Range. The major cities include

Aşgabat, Türkmenbaşy (formerly Krasnovodsk) and Daşoguz.

This day we travel by flight to the capital of Turkmenistan, Ashgabat. Upon arrival transfer to hotel and after-

noon excursion to nearby Gurtly Reservoir. Ashgabat is one of the most remarkable cities I ever have visited.

The architecture and infrastructure of the city is second to none… There is a very quiet and relaxed atmos-

phere. Ashgabat is the capital and largest city of Turkmenistan. It has a population of estimated around 1 mil-

lion people. The city is situated between the Kara Kum desert and the Kopet Dag mountain range, and is only

250 km from the second largest city in Iran, Mashhad. Museums include the Turkmen Fine Arts Museum and

Turkmen Carpet Museum, noted for their impressive collection of woven carpets as well as a Turkmen history

museum and the Ashgabat National Museum of History, which displays artifacts dating back to the Parthian

and Persian civilizations. Large mosques include the Azadi Mosque (which resembles the Blue Mosque in Istan-

bul), the Khezrety Omar Mosque, and the futuristic

Iranian Mosque. Ashgabat was also home to the

Arch of Neutrality, a 250-foot-tall tripod crowned by

a golden statue of late president Saparmurat Ni-

yazov (also known as Turkmenbashi, or leader of all

Turkmen). The 50-foot-high statue, which rotated in

order to always face the sun during daylight hours,

was removed on August 26, 2010 after Niyazov’s

successor, current President Gurbanguly Berdimu-

hamedov. Many things have changed in recent

years, and day by day Ashgabat reach into the mod-

ern world with new and interesting steps, but still

keeps its own pace and especially the calm and

peaceful atmosphere. Ashgabat itself is a great at-

traction! However we are on birding tour, and while

our documents are stamped and registrated we

spend the afternoon in nearby Gurtly reservoir,

which gives an splendid introduction of the regions birds and what we can expect the next week: Pygmy Cor-

morant, Purple Heron, Little Egret, Greater Flamingo, Osprey, Black-eared Kite, White-tailed Lapwing, Whisk-

ered Tern, Blue-cheeked Bee-eater, European Bee-eater, European Roller, Eurasian Hoopoe, Pied Bushchat,

Blyth’s Reed-warbler, Glamorous Reed-warbler, Willow Warbler, Rose-coloured Starling, Common Myna, Span-

ish Sparrow, etc. Night in comfortable hotel in Ashgabat. BLD

Day 11: Ashgabat – Repetek, enroute fishponds

18.th April: Early up and breakfast at the hotel, then transfer by vans to Repetek. Enroute we stop at the Baba-

durmaz Fish Ponds which really is an remarkable good birding site: Pygmy Cormorant, Purple Heron, Great

White Egret, Glossy Ibis, Red-crested Pochard, Ferruginous Duck, c. 20 species of shorebirds – e.g. Black-winged

Pratincole, Red-wattled Lapwing, White-tailed Lapwing (common), Red-necked Phalarope - Slender-billed Gull,

Whiskered Tern, White-winged Tern, Blue-cheeked Bee-eater, European Bee-eater, European Roller, Oriental

Skylark, Yellow Wagtail ssp feldegg, bema and melanogrisea, Pied Bushchat, Blyth’s Reed-warbler, Clamorous

Reed-warbler, Menetries’s Warbler, Isabelline Shrike, Turkestan Shrike, Lesser Grey Shrike, Rose-coloured Star-

ling, Red-headed Bunting, etc. Night in Repetek, either in tents or in guesthouse. BLD

Day 12: Reptek-area – Panders Ground Jay and Egyptian Nightjar!

19.th April: Repetek Biosphere State Reserve, often referred to as Repetek Nature or Desert Reserve. The Rep-

etek (zapovednik) is situated in the central part of the East Karakum. Typical features of the relief are

large-ridge sands with barchan massifs and valley depressions. Large ridges have a meridional and subme-

ridional direction. The slopes of the ridges are asymmetric; from the east - gentle slopes (5-8˚), from the

west – more abrupt (23-24˚), passing into valley depressions. The relative height of the ridges is 15-20m,

the distance between them is 6-7 km and the length is 8-10 km. Valley depressions adjoining the western

slopes are characterized by the lowest hypsometric altitude and extend for 3-7 km with a width of up to

several hundred meters. In the west of the site the valley depressions are gradually replaced with eolian

small-hilly dunes. It is located approximately 70 km south from Türkmenabat. Established in 1927 for the study

and preservation of a sand-desert ecosystem, it covers an area of 346 km2. The landscape of the reserve is arid,

with extensive ridged sand dunes some 15–20 m in height and 8–10 m in length in many areas, large areas of

sand dune and valley-like depressions. Black Saxaul (Haloxylon aphyllum), rare to most part of Central Asia co-

vers more than 1,470 km2, approximately 4.5% of the territory of the reserve. The soils have sandy subsoils,

but some 21 trees, 104 grasses, 8 mushrooms, 1 moss, 68 soil algae and 197 fungi grow within the reserve. The

Repetek Biosphere State Reserve is part of an Important Bird Area (IBA) and since 1979 has been a under the

monitoring of UNESCO but the site is under the administration of the Ministry of Nature Protection of Turk-

menistan, which in recent years means that access to the reserve is restricted, and in last three years it has

been closed for foreigners! This we knew in 2012 when we visited the area, hence we camped and birded in

the neighboring areas. Of course the birds are the same, and we succeeded very well, and don’t hesitate going

there again…. We found the species we looked for. We try to accommodate in the reserve, but this we first

know for sure in spring 2013. Anyway, we go there and plan to include the same species as we did in 2012,

which included e.g. Egyptian Vulture, Long-legged Buzzard, Egyptian Nightjar (One sighting: 3 heard -2 ♂♂, 1

♀, Blue-cheeked Bee-eater, European Roller, Saxaul Sparrow, Desert Finch, White-winged Woodpecker, Sykes’s

Warbler (sometimes in very high densities), Turkestan Tit, Turkestan Shrike, Bay-backed Shrike, Long-tailed

Shrike, Southern Grey Shrike ssp pallidirostris and of course…Pander’s Ground-jay. The reserve supports the

most complete assemblage of bird species typical of the sand desert of the Karakum and has an important

population of Goitered Gazelle and a small population of (Asian) Desert Sparrow. Night in Repetek area, tents

or guesthouse. BLD.

Day 13: Repetek – Ashgabat

20.th April: After morning birding we return to Ashgabat. This time we stop enroute at the Gevers Pivot Fields

which is a very good area for Passerinas; both breeding species and migrants: Black-eared Kite, Oriental Skylark

(c. 75 ! seen and in song at Gevers Pivot Fields on 10th May 2012), Red-throated Pipit, Tawny Pipit, Pied Bush-

chat, Olivaceous Warbler, Upcher’s Warbler, Menetries’s Warbler, Rose-coloured Starling, Red-headed Bunting

(common), etc. Night in comfortable hotel in Ashgabat. BLD

Day 14 and 15: Kopet Dag Mountains

21. – 22.th April: Transfer to Goktepe and Sekiz Yap area. We plan to make camp at two different places the

next days in order to track so many birds and species as possible. The Kopet Dag, Kopet Dagh, or Koppeh Dagh,

also known as the Turkmen-Khorasan Mountain Range is a mountain range on the frontier between Turkmeni-

stan and Iran, extending about 650 km along the border, east of the Caspian Sea. The highest peak of the range

in Turkmenistan is southwest of the capital Ashgabat and stands at 2,940 m which compared to the Kyrgyz

Mountains are less impressive. However the Kopet Dag Mountains holds some very interesting birds and

among the target species is following: Caspian Snowcock, Black Stork, Bearded Vulture, Eurasian Black Vulture,

Long-legged Buzzard (dark morph), Golden Eagle, See-see Partridge, Pallid Scops-owl, Eurasian Scops-owl, De-

sert Lark, Calandra Lark, Bimaculated Lark, Common Rock-thrush, Blue Rock-thrush, White-throated Robin, Ru-

fous Scrub-robin, Black Redstart, Finsch’s Wheatear, Variable Wheatear, Pied Wheatear, Rusty-tailed Wheat-

ear, Isabelline Wheatear, Streaked Scrub-warbler, Hume’s Whitethroat, Eastern Orphean Warbler, Menetries’s

Warbler, Eastern Rock Nuthatch, Indian Golden Oriole, Pale Rock-sparrow, Common Rock-sparrow, Red-

fronted Serin, Crimson-winged Finch, Desert Finch, Rock Bunting, Red-headed Bunting, etc. Night in tents. BLD

Day 16: Goktepe - Ashgabat

23.th April: After final day of birding in the mountains we drive to Ashgabat, get settled on our comfortable

hotel and spend the evening on a good restaurant in Ashgabat Centre. BLD

Day 17: Heading home – Welcome home!

24.th April: After early pre-breakfast transfer to airport for departure. Arrival your home according schedule.

Mammals

Though its birds we go for, there is an excellent range of mammals to be seen in the region, and good bird sites

usually are good places for other animals… During the years we have made these tours we have seen a long list

of mammals (and insects, butterflies, flowers, etc.): Wolf, Deer, Wild Pigs, Ibex, Persian Gazelles, Tolai Hare,

Goitered Gazelle, Great Gerbil, Red Pika,

Corsac Fox, Marbled Polecat, Marmots,

Ground Squirrel, etc. Turkmenistan has

four distinct habitats for animals. The

land is comprised of vast deserts, moun-

tains, plains and the shore of the Caspi-

an Sea. The desert areas have an amaz-

ing amount of animal life. Several insect

species reside there including ants, ter-

mites, ticks, beetles, tarantulas, scorpi-

ons and spiders, one of which are called

a karakurt and are more poisonous than

a cobra. Desert reptiles include the giant

grey lizard, tortoise, big-eared toad,

gecko and several species of snakes in-

cluding the cobra. The desert mammals are widely varied beginning with rodents like gopher and jerboas who

leave interesting patterns in the sand. The tolai hare, gazelles, antelope, foxes, can also be found here. The

mountainous areas of Turkmenistan support many animal species such as Argali, Porcupine, Lynx, Leopard (ra-

re), and sightings have been mentioned of cheetah but it’s probably extinct in the region. The plains habitat

supports the hedgehog , corsac fox, jackals, wild boar, goitered gazelle, rare pink deer. The wild donkeys (Ona-

ger) are sadly restricted to unreachable area in the border zone in Iran, but there is an introduced population in

Southern Turkmenistan of approx. 100 individuals in the Tejen-area.

This is an active journey. Participants should tolerate and

be ready for active birding. The activity level will be adjust-

ed so it fit all clients, and everyone can enjoy this journey.

There is certain flexibility, so individual wishes and pace can

be respected. We don’t climb mountains or endure tough

levels of activity, but this is birding and participants should

be ready getting up early – and should be ready to endure

changing climatic conditions. We visit deserts, semi-deserts,

mountains, etc. when this is said, it should be stressed that

Miksture and my team are very experienced in handling

these tours. We know the areas and the conditions. We are

well prepared, and make sure the participants achieve the

best possible comfort – tasty, healthy and enough food!

Comfortable accommodation whenever it’s possible, and

luckily we are able to provide good accommodation at least

with few days in between, so the participants never are

several days away from comfortable accommodation.

There will be nights in tents because no other possibilities

are present, but its solely an advantage as we are close or

right in the center of the best birding sites. Our vehicles are

comfortable and increasingly better year for year. Now we

use Mercedes Sprinter, comfortable 4x4 vehicles, and our

drivers always are sober and experienced drivers. Many

companies here in central Asia offers rotten service for the

participants and made silly excuses that other possibilities

are not present…We don’t – we value and respect utter-

most the clients, and Miksture have many clients that al-

ready have been on 3 or 4 journeys with us here in Kyrgyzstan and Kazakhstan. When it’s said please remem-

ber that tourism and service are not the same high level here as in many other parts of the world. Tourism is

new here and it took years before guesthouses and hotels were available. So please bear this in mind and be

patient if the breakfast on the guesthouse are served ten minutes later than agreed, or the breakfast served is

different than at home… etc.

Meals: The food is very delicious here in Central Asia. When we are in the field we bring our own kitchen team

who serve three meals a day: Good, healthy and delicious food! We provide mineral water during all tour, and

serve tea and coffee to all meals. When possible and wished we make tea and coffee-breaks.

Weather and climate: The climate is influenced by altitude. In April it’s cool, but usually pleasant in southern

Kazakhstan and lowlands in Kyrgyzstan. Rain occurs but usually not in heavy amounts. In Turkmenistan medio

April to medio May is prime time for birding. The Karakum Desert is one of the driest deserts in the world,

some places have an average annual precipitation of only 12 mm. The highest temperature recorded in Ash-

gabat is 48.0 °C and Kerki, an extreme inland city located on the banks of the Amu Darya river, recorded 51.7 °C

in July 1983, although this value is unofficial. 50.1°C is the highest temperature recorded at Repetek Reserve,

recognized as the highest temperature ever recorded in the whole former Soviet Union. In April and May it’s

far more comfortable and we can expect temperatures between 25-30 °C – occasionally higher in the Repetek

area.

What to bring…?

Prior departure, and usually at booking confirmation, we send a detailed packing list and information about

what to bring. Miksture are of course always prepared to assist and explain, so please feel free to ask us about

every matter...

CUSTOMS: On entering Central Asian countries you need to declare all equipment such as cameras (especially

camcorders) and money, Usually it goes smooth and without any problems and frankly… the customs and au-

thorities in the three countries are very friendly and service minded.

LUGGAGE: Please bring soft luggage if at all possible (i.e. lockable bag, strong nylon or canvas bags rather than

hard suitcases, which are for more difficult to pack into the vehicles and take up more room). In addition take a

small to medium sized rucksack which should be carried as cabin baggage. Pack photographic equipment, bins

and things of this sort in your rucksack for the journey.

CLOTHING: You will be outside most days unless you request to stay at base for any reason, so it is essential to

be properly kitted out. At the same time, try to travel as lightly as possible; leave superfluous clothing etc. at

home. It will be both cool and cold during the trip, although some days it will be pleasantly warm and even hot.

However, clothing needs to cater for these fluctuating needs. The season is predominantly dry apart from the

mountains. In addition, in the mountains it can be windy and cold. Remember that it is easier to keep warm if

you wear several layers.

Essential Clothing & items: One thick sweater/fleece, Waterproof cloth. Cloth for hot weather. A pair of walk-

ing/trekking shoes (trainers are generally not suitable but are useful for changing into, in towns, hotels etc.).

Torch and spare batteries. Other good equipment: A water bottle or thermos for tea (must not leak), a small

everyday ruck-sack, sunglasses, sun screen, pills for indigestion, diarrhea etc, kleenex tissues, wet wipes, travel

wash etc.

SUPPLIES: Supplies such as biscuits, some fruit (fresh & bottled), chocolate, beer, etc. can be bought readily in

all the towns we are visiting.

ACCOMMODATION in Guest houses/Hotel

Rooms are provided with twin beds. One key only usually (but not always) is allocated per room and this is

looked after by a floor attendant when you leave your room. Extra blankets and color televisions (but not in

guesthouses) are provided in most hotel rooms. Most hotels have adequate bathrooms with hot running water

for at least part of the day. The hotels in the region are generally of a good standard, especially in Turkmeni-

stan. Hot water may not be available when camping. Mugs and glasses are also provided but not necessarily

toilet paper; so bring 1-2 rulls/person. Good sterilized mineral water is available during the travel. On meals in

restaurations it’s usually possible to buy drinks like beer/wine/cola, etc.

CAMPING: For some days you will be under canvas accommodation. You will need to bring a 2-season sleeping

bag (can be rented, please contact Michael). Karrimot, are provided; though if you prefer pls bring the more

modern self-inflated Thermorest' mattress. There are no air mattresses.

ELECTRICITY: Guesthouses and hotels will have electricity. If you need to recharge batteries you don´t need an

adapter: Charge whenever possibilities are available.

LAUNDRY: Bring your own washing powder; hotels normally, but not invariably, have a laundry service.

MEALS: All meals have been paid. Lunches could be packed and be basic. Some evening meals will be in the

hotel or in a restaurant close by. Dinners are with plenty of food and a variety of communal dishes. Soups are

often included as well as both meat and vegetable dishes. Meal times are generally very flexible and the group

will eat together.

MEDICAL: Vaccinations. None are compulsory. It is recommended that you protect yourself against tetanus. A

check up with your doctor and dentist are wise precautions before departure. Please ensure that if You use

any medicament, you have an adequate supply to last for the trip; they will be difficult, if not impossible, to

purchase in Kyrgyzstan. Bring: Simple pain killer (e.g. Paracetomol), Lip salve, and travel sickness pills if re-

quired, 1-2 toilet rolls, Sun screen with a high protection factor (e.g. 25 sun block is recommended), Sunglasses,

suitable for screening out high UV at altitude. Sun hat. If you are prone to diarrhea then Lomotil or Imodium

and Dioralyte or Rehydrat may be useful.

TIPPING: Tipping is generally welcomed!

SPENDING MONEY: Kyrgyzstan, Turkmenistan and Kazakh-

stan have three currencies; these are no use outside the two

countries. Exchange is possible only in the cities! Traveler’s

cheques, Standard bank cards such as ACCES5, MASTER-

CARD,

Price include: Price pr. person (in shared double-room)

2140 EURO (calculated for a group of ten). To book a seat on

this tour a non-refundable deposit on 240 EURO per person

should be paid – You are not reserved a seat before the de-

posit is paid. This deposit will be paid back if the tour is can-

celled by Miksture. The remaining amount 1900 EURO per

person should be paid LATEST 1.th February 2013 ● Guiding

by Miksture/Michael Westerbjerg Andersen ● Local (English-

speaking) interpreters ● Transportation according program ●

All accommodation in Turkmenistan, Kazakhstan and Kyrgyz-

stan according program – hotels, guesthouses, tents ● All

food in Turkmenistan, Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan ● Bottled

water and some drinks ● All permits ● Services of tour leader

& administration from Miksture ● Local entrees and fees ac-

cording day-to-day program

Price does NOT include: International flights - the earlier it’s booked – the cheaper. It’s im-

portant to notice; don’t wait until few months departure! Miksture of course assist and we book

gladly for you; pls let us know if we should book your tickets. We book from all countris and

cities! We recommend Turkish Airlines which have the best, most comfortable and swift service

on this destination, e.g. Copenhagen – Bishkek, Almaty - Ashgabat, Ashgabat – Copenhagen: The

price for one passenger for today is 1166$ but should be bought during the next weeks. If bought

later then classes and price will be different.● Alcoholic drinks at meals in restaurants and cafes ●

Personal expenses for eventual extra arrangements not mentioned in the program ● Tips to driv-

ers and interpreter ● Travel insurance – mandatory! ● Extra arrangements not mentioned in the

program ● Money for own expenses – actually very little needed ● Visas and Invitation letters

(LOI) to Kazakhstan if needed ● anything strictly personal (e.g. laundry, phone calls, any excess

luggage charges, snacks).

Visa fees and applications will be explained prior departure.

Single room: Is possible for surcharge in most accommodation; guesthouse and hotels - a single

room surcharge will apply for anyone not sharing. Please note that, single room accommodation

may not be available at some places, but this will be explained and agreed prior departure.

Booking procedure:

In order to book a seat on TUKAKI 2013, pls insert deposit 240 Euro per person to Mikstures ac-

count – your seat is booked when deposit is paid. As soon Miksture registries deposit, we mail a

receipt and you seat is booked. If Miksture cancel the tour the deposit will be refunded 100%

1. Deposit of 240 Euro per person should be paid to Mikstures account (pls mark it: “Deposit

TUKAKI 2013”

2. When deposit is received, Miksture mail a receipt of the received amount, together with list

of birds of TUKAKI 2013 and Practical Traveltips TUKAKI 2013 which essential is a little

booklet of all practical matters and a packlist

3. Mail a JPG file of the “picture-page” in your Passport, or a scanned copy of the page to

Miksture. This will be used for obtaining permits, and book accommodation. Pls note – the

copy of the Passport SHOULD is the same as you will use during TUKAKI!

4. Flight ticket: The earlier it’s booked – the cheaper. Miksture of course assist if wished. We

recommend Turkish Airlines which have the best, most comfortable and swift service on

this destination. Copenhagen – Bishkek, Almaty - Ashgabat, Ashgabat – Copenhagen: The

price for one passenger for today is 1166$ but they should buy the tickets during the next

weeks. If bought later then classes and price will be different.

5. Visa – we assist with this matter. When your seat is booked Miksture inform you about the

visas – usually we arrange it in advance or purchase it upon arrival at the destination

6. The remaining amount of tour price is paid latest 1.th February 2013.

7. One month before departure Miksture mail an updated program

NB! Miksture customers get 20 % discount in Fjeld & Fritid i København. Pls contact Miksture for in-

formation

Account: Miksture

Bank: NORDEA

Bankadress: NORDEA Helsinge Afd., Østergade 7, 3200 Helsinge, Danmark. Phone: +45 48 79 47 50

Reg nr: 2418

Accountnr: 8976114257

IBAN: DK5220008976114257

SWIFT: NDEADKKK

Blue-cheeked Bee-eater is ABUNDANT in Turkmenistan, and always make birders happy!

All birders are welcome and on our travels there usually is a mix-ture of nationalities. Language is no prob-

lem – Birders talk the same language! English,Russian, French, German and Danish are spoken. Miksture

was established with the purpose of encourage and combine Eco-tourism and biological scientific research in

Central Asia; mainly Kyrgyzstan and Kazakhstan. The approach of combining Eco-tourism and Nature Con-

servation is in many ways opposite activities, but in Kyrgyzstan we have done it without severe compromises

for the visitors and the environment. Our tours are the result of friendship and strange ideas and our careful-

ly planned itineraries and intensive approach have since 1994 given those who travel with us an unusually

experience. Miksture is an independent company, established and owned by Michael Westerbjerg Andersen.

You will always be in contact with Michael when you contact us. All itineraries are accompanied by the staff of

Kyrgyz-Travel who posses the knowledge and experience to make the tour wholly successful. They know the

areas thoroughly and take pride in showing those who travel the local hotspots, confidently coping with any

problems that may arise and so greatly increasing the chance that everything will run smoothly. Leading a

tour in Europe or North America is one thing, leading one in Central Asia where logistical problems are a fact

of life is quite another! Where practicable and necessary we obtain the assistance of local leaders who have

both an intimate knowledge of their home areas and the ability to look after the group to the required stand-

ard.

Welcome to TUKAKI 2013

Friendly greetings!

Michael Westerbjerg Andersen, Owner of Miksture