A resident of Balakchy, Azamat Janaliev, has set himself an ambitious task – to walk across 5 continents in 6 years. He intends to traverse all seven regions of Kyrgyzstan in three months.
In just two days, Azamat has already walked nearly 60 kilometers – from Balakchy to Bishkek. Despite physical difficulties and the whims of the weather, he continues his journey. In an interview with "Azattyk," he spoke in detail about his project "Kyrgyz Izi" ("The Trail of the Kyrgyz").
“Azattyk”: Please tell us how you came up with the idea to undertake a round-the-world hike?
Janaliev: The idea came to me in Moscow. I worked in many places there and read a lot. Among the Kyrgyz, there are great figures like Chinghiz Aitmatov, as well as singers, poets, athletes, and scientists. I was also impressed by world-renowned people from different eras – Jules Verne, Ferdinand Magellan, and others. I read their works. At the end of 2014, the idea of walking around the globe came to me. I started planning and making notes. When I returned to Kyrgyzstan, I began to implement this project.
“Azattyk”: How many countries do you plan to visit?
Janaliev: The trek through Kyrgyzstan is a kind of warm-up. I intend to cover all seven regions of the republic. After that, I want to go further, excuse the tautology. (Laughs.) I want to develop a route similar to the Great Silk Road and call it "Kyrgyz Izi" ("The Trail of the Kyrgyz"). I intend to tell the residents of other countries at least a little about Kyrgyzstan. I plan to visit five continents in 5-6 years. During this time, I aim to write 2-3 books. I also have a dream – to successfully complete the journey and create an international-level tourism association.
“Azattyk”: Have you already resolved the issue of visas for other countries?
Janaliev: To be honest, I haven't thought about it yet. People are calling me, offering help in obtaining visas to different countries. I think there won't be any problems with visas.
“Azattyk”: Are there any willing to join you?
Janaliev: From time to time, some users on social media express a desire to accompany me. Well, who knows, maybe during the three months I plan to walk through Kyrgyzstan, there will be those who will actually join me. Perhaps someone won't walk with me for all 6 years; some might walk for a week, three months, or even half a year to a year. I don't mind such companions.
“Azattyk”: What are the parameters of your starting point?
Janaliev: I left Balakchy on April 16 in the morning, at 07:38. Yesterday, I walked 34 kilometers, today – 22-23 kilometers. I will try to stop at 30 kilometers today. Probably, that will be enough. I already have blisters on my feet, but I am moving towards my goal.
“Azattyk”: Where and how do you plan to spend the night?
Janaliev: Yesterday, at the entrance to the Boom Gorge, a man named Azat invited me to stay at his café. I spent the night there. In the morning, I had breakfast and continued my journey. But I don't ask anyone for help. Unless acquaintances appear who invite me to stay with them. In general, I brought a tent with me, which was provided by the Kyrgyz Tourist Union. They also gave me a sleeping bag and other travel gear.
“Azattyk”: Is your backpack heavy?
Janaliev: When I left home, excluding food and water, it weighed 17 kilograms. Overall, the weight is around 18 kilograms.
“Azattyk”: You mentioned on social media that your friends are making a special cart for you…
Janaliev: Yes, they were preparing it. But its weight turned out to be about 10 kilograms – that’s a bit too much for hiking conditions. And it also required more money, and the work stopped. But I didn't want to wait and started the hike.
“Azattyk”: Your journey requires quite a bit of money. Do you plan to spend only your own money on this, or do you have sponsors?
Janaliev: For the first stage, my own savings will be enough – I had some small savings. Also, our compatriot from Moscow named Zhyldyz supported me. She gave me about 20,000 soms. She is an ordinary woman who earns a living by baking. I am very grateful to her. My father also provided significant support. Additionally, my friends supported me as well.