VISUAL JOURNEY THROUGH BL7
Greetings from the BL7 team during their trek in Kyrgyzstan at the start of July earlier this year!
Imagine a journey that not only tests your physical limits but also transforms your spirit.
Welcome to Beyond Limits, a series of charity expeditions where we challenge boundaries and embrace physical feats, all for a worthy cause! Each trek in this series reveals the deepest reservoirs of our resilience and strength, as our participants take on the physical, emotional and mental challenges that come with trekking through the land of Kyrgyzstan.
As we wrap up Beyond Limits 7, we invite you to relive the adventure through our vivid visual captures. This article will transport you back to July 2024 in Kyrgyzstan, where every high and low of our trek is beautifully documented.
Explore the stunning photos and immersive moments of BL7, and who knows—you might just find yourself inspired to join our next charity expedition.
But first, step into our world and experience the wonders of BL7 through our eyes.
The BL7 team; the main stars of this article.
Ready? Join us and go above and beyond what you thought were your limits.
Day 1: touchdown + cultural exploration in bishkek, kyrgyzstan
Trekking day 0 — the team experienced yarn-spinning, wood slicing, yurt-making and eagle-hunting enroute to Tamga Village, immersing themselves fully in the culture of Kyrgyzstan before the adventure trek begins.
We landed in Bishkek and kicked off the day with a hearty breakfast at a local café.
The team’s spirits were high as we shared laughs and excitement, gearing up for the adventure ahead. Day 1 is already off to an inspiring start!
Participants trying their hand at weaving, just like local shepherds do. Each twist and turn of the loom connects us to the rich cultural heritage of Kyrgyzstan.
Delving into the art of weaving, participants connect with the traditional skills of local artisans, embracing the craftsmanship that has been passed down through generations.
We spent time assembling a Kyrgyz yurt, discovering the intricate process behind these iconic structures. Every step brought us closer to understanding the ingenuity and resilience embedded in Kyrgyz culture.
We enjoyed stunning weather to start, but as we continued building the yurt, a gentle drizzle soon added a touch of Kyrgyzstan’s charm. The shift reminded us that even in paradise, nature always has its own plans.
We had the privilege of working with a local family-run business specializing in yurt-building structures and weaving materials. This boutique manufacturer crafts everything in-house, offering a unique glimpse into the traditional skills and dedication behind Kyrgyz craftsmanship.
As we continued our journey, we were captivated by a demonstration of traditional eagle hunting. Guided by a skilled Kyrgyz eagle hunter, we witnessed the ancient art of falconry, gaining insight into this remarkable practice that has been cherished for centuries.
His nephew, a young boy, brought out a live hare. This apprentice is learning the ancient skills of eagle hunting, embodying the future of this cherished tradition.
We watched in awe as the eagle hunter demonstrated his craft. From a distance, the majestic eagle swooped down with precision, capturing the rabbit in a breathtaking display of skill and tradition.
During dinner later that evening, participants received their personal Expedition Handbooks. These guides are packed with vital information and tips, ensuring everyone is well prepared for the challenges and wonders that lie ahead.
day 2: Breaking New Ground
Trekking day 1 — the team conquered a whopping 11.45km for their first day of trekking!
The excitement was palpable as we woke up early for the first day of the trek. Fully geared up in trekking attire and with walkie-talkies set to the right frequency, everyone was ready to embrace the adventure ahead.
Our Kyrgyz drivers transported us by car from Tamga village (approximately 4.5-hour journey from Bishkek, covering 330 kilometers) to the starting point of the trek (approximetely an hour). The scenic drive set the stage for the trekking adventure that awaited us.
We reached the trailhead, disembarked from our vehicles, and began preparations. For the next 30-45 minutes, everyone was busy filling hydration bags and packing backpacks, readying ourselves for the adventure ahead.
We kicked off with a series of exercises designed to loosen our joints and prep our muscles for the trek ahead. This crucial warm-up helped us get ready for the physical challenge and set a positive tone for the journey.
After months of rigorous training and mental preparation, the moment had finally arrived. Everyone was brimming with excitement, ready to embark on the trek and put their hard work to the test.
We made sure everyone had their yellow safety tags securely attached to their backpacks. These tags are crucial for visibility and serve as an important measure in case anyone strays from the group.
The terrain was relatively flat, making the first day of trekking a bit easier and allowing us to ease into the journey with relative comfort.
Our trusty horse guides accompanied us, ready to assist anyone needing a rest. They also carried essential supplies, including water and first-aid kits, ensuring we were well-supported throughout the trek.
As we passed by shepherd families, the summer landscape dazzled with a vibrant array of blooming flowers. The colorful tapestry of nature was a breathtaking sight and a perfect backdrop for our trek.
With snow-capped mountains on the horizon and a landscape dotted with pine trees, the beginning of our trek was nothing short of stunning. This easy yet breathtaking scenery was the ideal introduction to our adventure.
Day 3: embracing the challenge
Trekking day 2 — the team hit 10.94km today!
Imagine unzipping your tent and being greeted by the awe-inspiring view of majestic mountains! The sheer grandeur of the landscape instantly elevates the excitement and anticipation for the day's adventure.
Our satellite phone, linked to Scott's phone via Bluetooth, ensured he was constantly updated with crucial information to share with participants each morning and evening. Meanwhile, we kept our energy high with a steady supply of coffee powders and beans, fueling our adventure with both connectivity and caffeine.
Every morning, Scott meticulously jotted down notes for both participants and team leaders. These updates ensured everyone stayed informed and on track, allowing for smooth dissemination of crucial information throughout the trek.
Loaded up and ready to go, we set off on our trek with high spirits and renewed energy.
With excitement in the air, everyone was pumped up and ready to tackle another day of trekking. The enthusiasm was palpable as we embraced the challenges and beauty that lay ahead.
The spirit remains high as Expedition Leader Kelvin gives team member Irisha an encouraging fist bump mid-trek. The camaraderie and support in this team continue to drive us forward on this incredible journey.
We all took a quick 10-minute power nap after lunch, layered up in our rain jackets to guard against the unpredictable weather. Sometimes, it rains. Sometimes, the winds are chilling. With river crossings earlier in the day, the team also took off their boots to let them dry out during lunch.
Urmat, our Kyrgyz doctor, diligently monitored participants' blood pressure regularly to ensure everyone’s well-being throughout the trek. His constant, careful attention to our health kept us safe and supported.
Our Kyrgyz team set up a cozy campfire by the stream, providing much-needed warmth in the evening chill. It was the perfect way to unwind and celebrate the successful end of Day 2, bringing everyone together for a moment of relaxation and camaraderie.
We settled in for a good night’s sleep, recharging and preparing for the challenges and excitement that Day 3 would bring. The restful evening set the stage for another day of adventure.
daY 4: finding rhythm
Trekking day 3 — the team covered 11.45km on their third day!
We kicked off the day by brushing our teeth by the stream, enjoying the fresh, crisp air as we prepared for another day of trekking. A refreshing start to an exciting new day on the trail!
Lay Hui and Alvin used a portable bucket and filtration system to grab clean water from the stream. It’s amazing how something so simple keeps us refreshed and ready for the day!
Victor took a moment to ease his muscles while Kelvin looked on. The two, who shared a tent most nights and bonded closely as expedition leaders, often found quiet moments like this to connect and support each other.
The third day of trekking begins!
Midway, the team had to navigate a stream while trying to stay dry and safe was a team effort. Each step required careful balance and coordination to make it across without getting soaked.
As we advanced into the mountains, the terrain began to shift, and the altitude steadily increased. The changing landscape brought new challenges and breathtaking views with every step.
Scott and Kavita, ever the vigilant sweepers, ensure that no one gets left behind. If you look closely, you’ll spot a shepherd and his livestock trailing behind, adding a touch of local life to our journey.
Taking a moment to soak in the stunning scenery and crisp mountain air while handling our “natural calls.” BL7 isn’t just about the trek; it’s about fully embracing the great outdoors—and yes, that’s Kelvin caught in action, doing his nature business!
As the terrain turns rocky and our pace slows, everyone is suited up in hardshell jackets and pants. With the weather being unpredictable—sometimes cold and rainy—backpack covers are also on to keep our gear dry and protected.
We’re all pumped up as we hit pause for a quick pitstop and some epic photos! With the amazing views and good vibes, it’s the perfect chance for some silly and memorable shots.
daY 5: pushing boundaries
Trekking day 4 — a total of 15.2km clocked in on the fourth day!
We kicked off the day by packing up our tents, gearing up for another exciting day of trekking. The adventure continues as we hit the trail once more!
The temperatures are dropping, so everyone’s bundling up in extra layers. The mornings are especially cold, making us all the more grateful for our cozy gear as we set out for the day.
We passed by multiple stunning lakes with water so clear they looked like they were straight out of a fairy tale. The breathtaking clarity made the scenery feel truly enchanting.
Today is the toughest yet as we tackle the ascent of Juukuu Pass. Although our original plan had us crossing three passes, changes in the itinerary mean we’re focusing solely on this one today.
It was really tough—at 4,000 meters above sea level, the ascent tested our limits. Every step was a challenge.
But we pushed on with grit. Today was a major test of our physical limits, and it’s in these tough moments that we truly break through and transform.
As we pushed forward, we came across another beautiful lake. Its serene beauty was a welcome sight, providing a stunning reward for our hard work and adding a touch of magic to the challenging day.
Meet Zhasmin, the lady in white (most left). She's a Kyrgyz content creator who joined us on Day 3 after a last-minute change when our originally contracted videographer had to withdraw due to health issues. Her presence added a special touch to our journey and her keen eye helped capture the adventure beautifully.
Kelvin throws his hands up in victory as we near the end of this tough stretch. It’s a perfect moment of triumph and relief for making it through the challenge!
It was a crazily demanding trek today, both physically and mentally... but we made it! Now we’re pumped and ready to take on whatever tomorrow throws at us!
daY 6: the team encounters turbulence
Trekking day 5 — the team had to change up their route due to health challenges, but still pushed on to clear a remarkable 10km.
The next morning, Scott and Kavita (founders of Beyond Expeditions) huddled with Nazgul and Aibek (our main expedition guide and assistant expedition guide) to plan out the next leg of the route.
Urmat, the expedition doctor is worried about 5-6 people with low oxygen levels and high blood pressure. This means we’ll need to tweak our original plan to keep everyone safe and on track.
Closest to the camera is our doctor, followed by our driver and then Aibek, our assistant expedition guide. Each plays a key role in making sure everything runs smoothly and safely on our adventure.
Scott had to deliver the tough news that 5-6 people would have to stay in the car and rest instead of joining the trek today. The announcement brought a somber mood to the group, and the spirits were noticeably dampened as everyone processed the change in plans.
The rest of the group pressed on, determined to continue despite the setback. With the path ahead clear, we focused on making the most of the day’s trek and supporting each other through the challenges.
Today’s trek was a bit of a breather—easier terrain gave us a chance to recover and enjoy the journey. It was a welcome change and allowed us to recharge for the days ahead.
The members who could continue stayed strong and motivated, keeping the spirit high for those who couldn’t join today’s trek.
Midway through the trek, we enjoyed a refreshing lunch picnic with some juicy watermelon. It was the perfect pick-me-up, giving us the energy boost we needed for the rest of the journey!
Paul, our videographer for past BL 4, 5 and 6 was activated last minute and had just flown in the night before and was feeling the effects of sudden altitude acclimatization, with low oxygen levels hitting him hard. It’s a reminder of how quickly the high altitudes can impact even the most prepared.
Today, we reached an impressive altitude of 3819 meters above sea level. The higher elevation added to the challenge.
Surrounded by towering pine trees, our members marched on through scenery that was nothing short of majestic. The breathtaking views were unparalleled, making every step of the journey feel like a reward.
Today's trek brought us to some tourist spots, where we enjoyed ourselves taking photos with the scenery!
daY 7: sailing on!
Trekking day 6 — the team covered another 10km on the sixth day.
After a good night's rest, the team is up and ready to conquer our new target of 100km (original goal was 130km)!
On the left, you’ll spot the Paddlers in the Pink flag. This initiative raises awareness for breast cancer through dragon boating, focusing on how the sport can aid in lymph node recovery and overall wellness!
Here’s Ryan, the talented photographer behind all these stunning shots. He goes above and beyond to capture every detail and nuance of our adventure. Thanks to his incredible work, we’re able to preserve and relive the unforgettable moments of this journey!
We loaded our gear into the van and set off for a new location, adjusting our plans due to a change in the trekking route. Onward to the next adventure!
Morale was high, even with the new challenges. What started as a straightforward trek through the national park has evolved into a more complex adventure. Now, we're navigating descents and scouting new trekking spots, embracing each twist and turn with enthusiasm!
We’re back on track as a team, and morale is soaring once more. Everyone has rallied with renewed energy and a strong determination to hit our new target of 100km!
Today brought another stream crossing, and everyone had their own approach. Some chose to remove their shoes and socks for a direct wade, while others carefully navigated the rocks along the stream’s edge, keeping their footwear dry. It was a testament to each person’s comfort level and ingenuity!
The weather kept us on our toes today—one moment sunny, the next rainy, with winds and chilly temperatures thrown in for good measure.
Sometimes, the weather switches up for gloomy and thundery too! The weather added its own dramatic flair to the day.
With conditions constantly shifting, it was an adventure in itself, making our trek even more memorable.
After a long day, we enjoyed some much-needed muscle recovery in the sauna. Victor, Scott, and Alvin took full advantage of the warmth to unwind and soothe their tired muscles, preparing for the adventures ahead.
After several days without a shower, the ladies were absolutely thrilled to freshen up. It was a much-anticipated moment of joy and rejuvenation!
daY 8: taking on a more scenic route.
Trekking day 7 — a whopping 15.8km today; the team’s gearing up for the grand finale!
It's the morning of the 8th day here in Kyrgyzstan! Irisha and Kwee Lim spread some extra cheer by gifting the daughter of the yurt camp we were staying at, a pink flamingo from BCF. The sweet surprise was a heartwarming moment, bridging cultures and bringing smiles all around.
Irisha was always on the lookout, making sure everyone stayed protected from the sun.
Victor stepped up to empty out the trash from the previous day's trek. His effort kept our camp clean and tidy, ensuring we leave no trace as we continue our adventure.
Everyone’s in high spirits and ready for the next leg of the journey. It’s all smiles and good vibes as we capture the moment together!
Today was a tough one right from the start with a steep incline that set the tone for the rest of the trek. The challenge was real, but so was our determination to push through.
Carol took a tumble off the horse due to the soft, muddy ground, but thankfully she wasn’t injured. It was a reminder of the unpredictable nature of the terrain.
The horse also got a bit banged up. Luckily, neither Carol nor the horse were seriously injured. We made sure both got the care they needed, and Carol’s resilience helped keep the team’s morale up!
The trek is insane—just look at that incline! Paul is riding a horse due to an injury, navigating the steep and challenging terrain with a bit of extra help. It’s a tough climb, but everyone’s pushing through with determination.
Kim proudly holds up the Breast Cancer Foundation's flag, a symbol of our commitment and support.
We wrapped up the day’s trek with a well-deserved treat—vodka and drinks for everyone! It was a perfect way to unwind, celebrate our achievements, and enjoy some camaraderie after a challenging day.
daY 9: the grand finale
Trekking day 8 — the team trekked 12.72km today, clearing their target of 100km!
The last day of trekking, and we are ready to hit the finish line for 100km!!
Let's do this! The finish line is in sight, and with our determination and team spirit, we’re ready to tackle the final stretch!
And finally, it's time to cross the finishing line!
Every member completed the trek with pure excitement and zest; the energy and enthusiasm were palpable!
Fist bumps and cheers filled the air as everyone went around congratulating each other. The excitement and camaraderie were electric, as we went all out to celebrate the collective achievement of our amazing journey!
Time for a celebratory drink! We raised our glasses of orange juice, Coke, or alcohol to toast our achievements and the journey we've completed together!
Every member received a medallion in honor of their incredible journey and contribution to making BL7 a success. Each medallion is a tribute to their hard work, perseverance, and the unforgettable adventure we shared.
On July 13, 2024, this incredible team officially wrapped up the 7th edition of the Beyond Limits charity expeditions. It’s a wrap on an unforgettable adventure!
daY 10: celebratory dinner, end to BL7
A local Kyrgyz band celebrated with us, adding an authentic touch to our finale. Their lively music and joyful performance brought a fantastic local flavor to our closing festivities!
We had a blast enjoying their performance and soaking in the vibrant Kyrgyz culture. It was an eye-opening experience that added an unforgettable touch to our adventure.
Scott and the Kyrgyz team had a little surprise up their sleeves—mysterious gifts that left us guessing and grinning.
Each person received a hand-crafted BL7 hat—an exclusive keepsake that’s as unique as our adventure!
Each member took a moment to stand in front and give a short speech. It was a heartfelt series of reflections and gratitude, bringing a personal touch to our celebration and highlighting the beauty of the incredible journey we’ve shared together.
Our main expedition guide, Nazgul, also took a moment to express her deep appreciation and pride. She reflected on the past 10 days, acknowledging the hard work and spirit that each member brought to the journey. Her heartfelt words were a fitting tribute to the shared achievement and perseverance of the team.
And with that, we officially close the chapter on Beyond Limits 7! But it’s not just an end—it’s a new beginning. Beyond Limits 8 and 9 are on the horizon as we strive towards our goal of 100 charity expeditions. We’ll keep pushing forward, raising funds for meaningful causes and joining forces with people dedicated to making a difference, all while pursuing our own personal breakthroughs along the way.
Here’s to the next adventure!
As we close the chapter on Beyond Limits 7, we reflect on the transformative power of pushing our boundaries and embracing new challenges. Each step of this journey has been a testament to human resilience, collective effort, and the unwavering spirit to make a difference.
When was the last time you had an experience of this nature?
Looking ahead, Beyond Limits 8 and 9 await, promising new adventures and opportunities for growth. If you’re inspired by our journey and eager to be part of something greater, we invite you to dive into our upcoming editions. Together, we can make a lasting impact and embark on journeys that change lives; the lives of others, and the lives of our own.
Explore more about our next expeditions and become a part of our extraordinary community.
Beyond Limits 8 is going to bring you into the mystical realm of Bhutan, as we trek for Breast Cancer Foundation once again!
And we’ll be braving the icy wilderness of Mongolia for Beyond Limits 9, also in support of Breast Cancer Foundation.
The adventure is far from over—will you be a part of the next chapter?
Article written by: Valerie
Valerie, a freelance writer with a quirky infatuation with steamed buns and slightly bizarre food combinations.
(“Try soft-boiled eggs and hot milo!”)
She wishes to keep writing stories that bypass typical food reviews and appreciation of scenery, stories that inspire readers to pursue curious conversations about the unique cultures and lifestyles of every country.
