Trek Kyrgyzstan's Tian Shan and Pamir-Alay Mountains, 7/21/2024 - 8/9/2024 TRIP AGREEMENT

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Preparedness I understand that this trip requires excellent aerobic conditioning, balance, and the skills and gear to pack appropriately and carry a daypack with confidence for 10-15 miles per day on sometimes very rugged terrain, including steep scree or boulder ascents/descents and moderate exposure. I certify that I will be prepared with the experience, skills, conditioning, and gear to meet the requirements of the trip.

High Altitude I understand that this trek involves high altitude (one day at over 16,800 ft and up to five successive nights of camping between 10,000 ft and 14,400 ft) and that participants face an elevated risk of altitude illness including the potential for fatal pulmonary or cerebral edema. I commit to following all doctor and trek leader instructions to minimize altitude illness risk, to being open and honest with my trip leaders and fellow trekkers about pre-existing conditions that could be dangerous at altitude, and with sharing of symptoms along the trek that could indicate injury or onset of altitude illness.

Special Training Requirements I commit to participate fully in training (based on reading and a quiz) on altitude illness symptoms and prevention and a seminar or an evening discussion session on leadership and decision making in high-hazard outdoor situations; and to actively engage in in advance conditioning and expedition planning of gear, trip logistics and navigation, as organized by the trip leaders.

Rescue Options I understand that emergency evacuation options are limited during the trek (no backcountry helicopter rescue is available) so it could be two days or more to evacuate me on foot, by pony, or on a stretcher to a good medical facility if I am injured or ill. Further I understand that medical facilities outside of the major facilities are very limited.

Weather I understand that high mountains can have very changeable and occasionally very wet and cold weather including some days when we could be walking in snow (microspikes/crampons are not necessary).

Amenities I understand that we will be in the backcountry for several days in a row with limited amenities like showers and laundry.

Potential for Illness I understand that we will be traveling in third world areas and that conditions along the route could put me at elevated risk of gastric illness, so I will be very careful with my personal hygiene and take extra care with food and drink wherever possible to minimize the risks. I recognize that even with a high standard of care I may develop significant symptoms that could impact my ability to complete the trip.

Gear I understand that this trip requires me to provide and carry my own daypack with sleeping bag, clothing, water, and personal gear.

Food I understand that the variety of food available and the ability to meet special dietary preferences may be limited.

Travel Documents I understand that I will be required to hold up to date travel documents and international medical insurance and emergency evacuation insurance for the trip, at my own expense. The evacuation insurance should be sufficient to get me back to the hospital of my choice in the United States.

Risk of Terrorism or Border Conflict I understand that, while the U.S. Department of State rates Kyrgyzstan as safe to travel (a Travel Alert Level 1 - exercise reasonable precautions), I also understand that areas near the Tajikistan and Uzbekistan borders have faced active conflicts in the recent past though they have now reached a peaceful agreement. While these conflicts have been 12 hours or more away from our route, I recognize that terrorism or fighting could pop up near our route at any time, leading us to need to change our route and possibly even exit early.

Elevated Risk of Petty Crime I understand that Kyrgyzstan faces a relatively high frequency of theft, pick-pocketing and other acts against tourists, particularly in cities. I commit to securing my valuables before going out, and to being cautious about where I go on my own without our local staff.

Culture and Mores I understand that Kyrgyzstan is a conservative Muslim country and I need to dress and behave modestly (women are asked to cover their hair, knees, shoulders, and arms when in public spaces and religious sites; men are expected to cover up from ‘navel to knees’ in public spaces and religious sites, and long pants are best).

Teamwork I understand that this is an extended group expedition and a commitment to build a cohesive group, to actively work together, to be flexible and sensitive to others, and to help each other succeed under demanding conditions and under the stress of an unfamiliar culture, is critical to the success of the trip. I understand that this is a group trip and that participants will look out for and support each other on the trail. Pace, daily start-end times, route and side trips will be driven by the needs of the group and conditions on the ground.

Leadership I understand that safety and well-being of participants comes first and the itinerary and route may change without prior notice based on conditions. While participant input will be valued, the Mountaineers trip leader will be the ultimate decision maker.

Responsibility I understand that the Mountaineers trip leader is not a guide and that I am responsible to know the route and where I am along the way at all times.

Fitness and Medical Conditions I commit to providing a doctor’s certification of medical fitness if requested, and to disclose to the leader and outfitter in advance of the trip about any recent injuries, surgeries, allergies, medications or medical conditions that could impact me on the trip.

Behavior I commit to behave during the trip in a careful and safe manner, to communicate to the leader promptly about any illness or injury, and to put my health and safety and that of my fellow group members first even if this means having to turn around or exit the trip early.

Cancellation Fees I understand that there is a minimum $100 fee if I cancel, plus any non-refundable expenses incurred up to that point.

Participant Signature Please type your full legal name.

Date Signed

Name on Passport Please type your full name as it appears on your passport.

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Trek Kyrgyzstan's Tian Shan and Pamir-Alay Mountains, 7/21/2024 - 8/9/2024 TRIP AGREEMENT

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