A big trip starts with a lot of planning and eventually some first actions. Since I’ve been back from my vacation in the west, I’ve kept busy organizing last items to be moved to my parents place and asking around for the visa situation. Here is my result on the visas:

• Iran: The visa is only valid for 3 months from the date it is issued. Therefor I am too early, since my plan is to travel through Iran in November
• Turkmenistan: A tourist visa requires booking a tour or a guide through an approved travel agent. I’ll double check the situation with the consulate
• Uzbekistan: The tourist visa requires a travel voucher. I will check with the consulate what exactly this document is.
• Kyrgyzstan: Only the visa form with a photo, payment and the passport are required

So the Kyrgyz visa will be first to be organized, so I can clarify the requirements with the Turkmen and Uzbek consulates.