Embark on a once-in-a-lifetime adventure with our 15-Day Central Asia Odyssey, designed for curious travelers eager to immerse themselves in the rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning natural beauty of this fascinating region. From the ancient cities of Uzbekistan to the breathtaking landscapes of Tajikistan, Kazakhstan, and Kyrgyzstan, this carefully curated tour brings together the highlights of Central Asia, offering an unforgettable experience that will stay with you long after you’ve returned home.
Your journey begins in Uzbekistan, where you’ll explore the Silk Road jewels of Khiva, Bukhara, and Samarkand. Each of these UNESCO World Heritage sites tells a unique story of the great civilizations that once thrived along this historic trade route. Wander through grand mosques, madrasahs, and ancient palaces, and witness architectural wonders that have withstood the test of time. Visit Samarkand’s awe-inspiring Registan Square and the majestic tomb of Amir Timur, whose empire once spanned from the Mediterranean to India.
Next, discover Tajikistan’s hidden gems. Visit the Seven Lakes, a series of turquoise-hued bodies of water nestled in the Fann Mountains, and explore the archaeological treasures of ancient Penjikent. The journey continues with a visit to Dushanbe, Tajikistan’s capital, where you’ll experience the blend of Soviet and traditional architecture, visit fascinating museums, and stroll through beautiful parks.
In Kazakhstan, Almaty offers a unique fusion of Soviet-era monuments and stunning natural surroundings. Marvel at the panoramic views from Kok-Tobe Hill and enjoy a leisurely walk through the city’s parks and museums. The adventure culminates in Bishkek, the capital of Kyrgyzstan, where you’ll experience the warmth of Kyrgyz culture, explore oak parks and Soviet-era monuments, and visit the historic Burana Tower.
This tour is not only a cultural journey through the heart of Central Asia but also an opportunity to witness some of the most spectacular landscapes the region has to offer. From the mountains of Tajikistan to the grassy steppes of Kazakhstan, each destination provides a visual feast of nature’s wonders.
Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a culture seeker, or simply a traveler looking for a unique and enriching experience, this 15-day Central Asia tour offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and adventure. Don’t miss out on the chance to explore the treasures of Central Asia!
Welcome to Tashkent, the capital of Uzbekistan and the largest city in Central Asia. Upon arrival, you will be greeted by our driver and transferred to your hotel for check-in around noon. After settling in, you will meet your guide to begin your exploration of Tashkent.
Discover the historical Old City, home to the revered Khast-Imam Complex, where you can see the famed Quran of Caliph Uthman.
Explore the Barak-Khan Madrasah, Tilla Sheikh Mosque, and the mausoleum of Abu Bakr Kaffal Shashi. Don’t miss the bustling ChorSu Bazaar, and enjoy a ride on the Tashkent Metro. Here, you will visit the Applied Arts Museum, a treasure trove of traditional Uzbek crafts, before walking through the beautiful Navoi Theater. The day ends with a visit to Amir Timur Square, where you can reflect on the historical significance of the city’s founding. Return to your hotel for an overnight stay.
Duration of sightseeing: 5-6 hours
After breakfast, embark on a scenic drive to the Fergana Valley (approximately 320 km). The road to this lush region ascends via the picturesque Kamchik Mountain Pass, situated at 2,267 meters above sea level. Your first stop is the historic city of Kokand, where you’ll visit the striking Khudoyar Khan Palace. Proceed to Rishtan, a town famed for its exquisite pottery, and visit a local workshop to witness the art of ceramic-making. Continue to Fergana City for hotel check-in and an overnight stay.
Tour Duration: 4–5 hours
Following breakfast, you’ll begin your journey from Khiva to Bukhara, a distance of 480 kilometers (7-8 hours). The scenic drive takes you through the Kyzylkum Desert, a part of the ancient Silk Road where merchants once transported precious goods such as porcelain and spices. Along the way, you’ll experience the vastness of the desert landscapes.
Upon arrival in Bukhara late in the afternoon, check in to your hotel and enjoy some time to rest before an overnight stay.
Note: As food options along the route are limited, you may want to arrange for a packed lunch from your hotel or guide the day before. Some stretches of the road may be in poor condition, so travel time could vary.
After breakfast, set off for a walking tour through Bukhara’s Old City. The historic center is filled with impressive sites, including the Lyabi-Khauz Ensemble, Magoki-Attori Mosque, and the distinctive Chor-Minor Madrasah. Explore the bustling trade domes before visiting the grand Kalyan Minaret, Kalyan Mosque, and the Miri-Arab Madrasah. The Ark Fortress, Bolo-Khauz Mosque, and the ancient mausoleums of Ismail Samani and Chashma-Ayub are also on the itinerary. Return to your hotel for an overnight stay.
Duration of sightseeing: 6-7 hours
After breakfast, continue your exploration with a guided visit to the Sitorai Mokhi-Khosa, the summer palace of the last emir of Bukhara, followed by the Mausoleum of Bakhouddin Naqshbandi.
Later in the afternoon, depart for Samarkand (280 km, 4 hours). En route, stop at the 11th-century Caravanserai Rabat-i-Malik, a historical site along the Silk Road. Arrive in Samarkand in the late afternoon, check in to your hotel, and enjoy the rest of the day free for relaxation. Overnight at the hotel.
Duration of sightseeing: 2-3 hours
Start your day with a visit to the grand Registan Square, one of the most famous architectural ensembles in the Islamic world. Next, you’ll explore the remains of Bibi-Khanum Mosque and the lively Siyob Bazaar. Discover the history of the Ulugbek Observatory, and continue your journey to the Shakhi-Zinda Necropolis, a breathtaking collection of tombs, and the Gur-Emir Mausoleum, the final resting place of Amir Timur, the founder of the Timurid Empire. Overnight at the hotel.
Duration of sightseeing: 6-7 hours
After breakfast, check out from your hotel by noon. Continue your exploration of Samarkand by visiting the Afrosiab Museum, dedicated to the ancient city that once thrived here, and the Tomb of Saint Daniel.
In the afternoon, drive to Konigil village to observe the traditional process of making Samarkand paper from mulberry bark, an ancient craft still practiced today. The rest of the day is free, with the option to explore at your own pace. Overnight stay at the hotel.
Duration of sightseeing: 3-4 hours
After breakfast, head towards the Uzbekistan-Tajikistan border at Jartepa (50 km, 1 hour). After completing customs and passport control, you will meet your Tajik guide and driver who will take you to the Seven Lakes in the Fann Mountains (80 km, 1.5-2 hours). Each of these lakes has its own unique color, ranging from turquoise to deep purple, creating a mesmerizing sight.
Enjoy lunch at a guest house located near Lake #4 before continuing your journey to Penjikent. There, visit the Rudaki Museum and explore the local bazaar. You will also visit the ancient archaeological site of Penjikent, which dates back to the time when it was a major Sogdian city before its destruction in the 8th century. Overnight at the hotel in Penjikent.
After breakfast, depart Penjikent and drive to Dushanbe (270 km, 4-5 hours). The picturesque drive takes you through the Anzob Pass, which rises to 3300 meters above sea level. Upon arrival in Dushanbe, visit Rudaki Park and Ismoili Somoni Square before checking in to your hotel for an overnight stay.
Following breakfast, embark on a sightseeing tour of Dushanbe. Visit the Hissar Fortress, where you will see the Madrasah Kuhna and the Mosque of Hoji Yakub. Then head to the National Museum of Antiquities, the Gurminj Musical Instruments Museum, Mehrgon Bazaar, and the Botanical Garden for a glimpse of the local flora. Enjoy some free time before returning to your hotel for the night.
After breakfast, you will have free time until transfer to the International Airport for your flight to Almaty. Upon arrival in Almaty, you’ll be transferred to your hotel where you can enjoy the rest of the day at leisure. Overnight at the hotel.
After breakfast, your guide and driver will meet you for a sightseeing tour of Almaty. Start with a visit to Panfilov Park and the Zenkov Cathedral, a wooden structure built without nails. Then head to the Central State Museum (closed on Tuesdays) and Republic Square before enjoying panoramic views of the city from Kok-Tobe Hill. Conclude your tour with a visit to Medeo Gorge, known for its ice skating rink. Free time in the afternoon and overnight at the hotel.
Duration of sightseeing: 5-6 hours
After breakfast, depart for Bishkek via the newly built highway (250 km, 4 hours). During the drive, enjoy the beautiful natural landscapes that unfold along the way. Upon arrival, you will cross the Kazakhstan-Kyrgyzstan border and meet your guide and driver in Bishkek. Check in to your hotel, and in the afternoon, begin your sightseeing tour. Visit Oak Park, Ala-Too Square, the Statue of Manas, and the National Museum of Fine Arts (closed on Mondays), among other notable landmarks. Overnight stay at the hotel.
Duration of sightseeing: 3-4 hours
After breakfast, drive to Burana Tower (85 km, 1 hour 15 minutes), the remnant of the ancient city of Balasagun, which flourished between the 11th and 13th centuries. After exploring the area, return to Bishkek for some free time. Overnight at the hotel.
Check out from your hotel by noon. Enjoy your last moments in Bishkek with free time until your transfer to Bishkek International Airport for your departure. This marks the end of your Central Asia Odyssey Tour.
| Number of Tourists | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economy* (per tourist) | $2300 | $1250 | $1050 | $870 | $800 |
| Comfort** (per tourist) | $2450 | $1350 | $1150 | $950 | $900 |
* — based on 3* hotel accommodation / ** — based on 4* hotel accommodation /
All transportation throughout the tour Sightseeing tour program with English speaking guide Entrance fees to the museums, mausoleums and other sights Accommodation (shared double/twin room) Meals as per program Eagle hunting show Felt carpet workshop in Kochkor
Any Private Expenses Tips are not included, but would be appreciated Travel insurance Consular fees for tourist visa Full board (meals not included in the program) – 200 USD Horse riding (Horse for 2 hours – 15 USD)
This 15-day Central Asia Odyssey tour was an unforgettable experience. The itinerary was perfectly balanced, offering a deep dive into the region’s rich history and culture. I particularly enjoyed exploring the UNESCO sites in Khiva and the majestic Registan Square in Samarkand. The local guides were knowledgeable and passionate, making every site come alive with stories of the past. The highlight for me was visiting the Seven Lakes in Tajikistan, which offered breathtaking views and a serene atmosphere. The transition between countries was seamless, and the logistics were well-organized. The only challenge was the long road trip between Khiva and Bukhara, but the scenery made it worthwhile. I highly recommend this tour to anyone wanting to explore Central Asia’s historical treasures!
What an incredible journey! I joined this Central Asia tour with high expectations, and it did not disappoint. Each destination brought its own unique charm, from the ancient architecture of Khiva to the stunning landscapes of the Fann Mountains in Tajikistan. The guides were not only experts in the history of each place but also ensured we had a personal connection with the locations. I was especially moved by the visit to the Ismaili Samani Mausoleum in Bukhara and the peaceful surroundings of the Seven Lakes. The food was fantastic, with each country offering its distinct flavors. The only downside was the travel time between some of the cities, but the destinations were well worth the journey. Highly recommend this tour to anyone with a deep interest in Central Asian history and culture!