Embark on an unforgettable 14-day adventure through Central Asia’s most captivating destinations, where ancient traditions meet breathtaking landscapes. From Kazakhstan‘s vibrant cityscapes to the nomadic culture of Kyrgyzstan, the turquoise mausoleums of Uzbekistan, the serene Seven Lakes of Tajikistan, and the fiery deserts of Turkmenistan, this private tour encapsulates the very essence of the Silk Road.
Your journey begins in Almaty, Kazakhstan’s cosmopolitan gem, where historical landmarks and the stunning Tian Shan Mountains set the tone for the adventure ahead. Cross borders into Kyrgyzstan, experiencing its Soviet-era charm and nomadic traditions with visits to the Burana Tower and a yurt-building demonstration.
In Uzbekistan, step into the pages of history in Tashkent, Samarkand, Bukhara, and Khiva—each city offering unparalleled insights into the region’s rich architectural and cultural heritage. Marvel at turquoise-tiled mausoleums, bustling bazaars, and the mesmerizing beauty of Registan Square.
Tajikistan introduces you to the pristine beauty of the Seven Lakes, nestled in the Fann Mountains, where every turn reveals a kaleidoscope of colors. Share meals with local families and immerse yourself in Tajik culture in this tranquil, off-the-beaten-path destination.
Finally, Turkmenistan enchants with its white-marble capital, Ashgabat, and the mysterious Darvaza Gas Crater—known as the “Door to Hell.” Sleep under the stars in the Karakum Desert and witness the ancient grandeur of Merv, a Silk Road hub with incredible archaeological treasures.
This carefully crafted itinerary ensures a balance of guided exploration and free time, allowing you to experience Central Asia’s highlights at your own pace. With personalized service, cultural insights, and a seamless journey across five nations, this tour is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to immerse yourself in the history and heart of the Silk Road.
Are you ready to uncover the secrets of Central Asia? Join us for this spectacular journey and let the magic of the Silk Road unfold before your eyes!
Upon your arrival in Almaty, you will be greeted by your driver and transferred to your hotel for check-in (available from 14:00 onwards). The rest of the day is free for you to relax and explore the city at your leisure. Overnight stay at the hotel.
Start your journey through Central Asia with a comprehensive exploration of Almaty, Kazakhstan’s dynamic commercial hub. The tour begins at 09:00 and includes a visit to Panfilov Park, where you can admire the striking Zenkov Cathedral, one of the world’s tallest wooden structures. Continue to Republic Square and the Central State Museum (closed on Tuesdays), which houses a fascinating collection of Kazakh cultural artifacts.
In the afternoon, travel 25 km to Shymbulak Ski Resort, where you’ll take a cable car ride to enjoy breathtaking views of the snow-capped Tian Shan Mountains. End your day at the Sunkar Falcon Farm (closed on Mondays and Tuesdays) to witness an awe-inspiring display of trained hawks, showcasing a unique aspect of Kazakh heritage. Return to the hotel in the evening.
Duration: 10 hours (6 hours of sightseeing)
Meals: Breakfast/-/-
After breakfast, embark on a scenic road journey to Bishkek, crossing the Korday border (3-4 hours). Upon arrival in Kyrgyzstan’s capital, check in at your hotel and relax before starting an afternoon city tour.
Explore Oak Park, Ala Too Square, the Statue of Manas, the National Museum of Fine Arts, the Philharmonic Hall, and the Victory Monument, all showcasing the Soviet-era architectural charm. Overnight stay at the hotel.
Duration: 3-4 hours
Meals: Breakfast/-/-
Leave Bishkek at 09:00 and drive to the Burana Tower, an ancient minaret and UNESCO World Heritage Site from the 11th century. Continue to Don Aryk Village, where you will enjoy lunch hosted by a local Kyrgyz family. Participate in a hands-on demonstration of yurt construction, gaining insights into its cultural significance.
Later, transfer to Bishkek airport for your evening flight (HY780) to Tashkent, Uzbekistan. After landing, transfer to your hotel for an overnight stay.
Duration: 11 hours (4-5 hours of sightseeing)
Meals: Breakfast/Lunch/-
Begin your Tashkent tour at 10:00, exploring the Khast-Imam Complex, home to one of the oldest Qur’ans, and the bustling Chorsu Bazaar. Ride the impressive Tashkent Metro to the city center, visiting the Museum of Applied Arts, the Navoi Theater, and Amir Timur Square.
In the evening, transfer to the train station to board the high-speed Afrosiyob train (18:50 departure) to Samarkand, arriving at 21:00. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel for an overnight stay.
Duration: 11 hours 30 minutes (5-6 hours of sightseeing)
Meals: Breakfast/-/-
Travel to the Jartepa border crossing (1 hour) and proceed through customs to meet your Tajik driver. Head towards the breathtaking Seven Lakes of Marguzor in the Fann Mountains (2 hours). Have lunch near the fourth lake before exploring the vibrant, multicolored lakes. Depending on road conditions, drive or hike from the fifth to the seventh lake (a 3-hour round trip if walking).
Enjoy dinner and an overnight stay at a guesthouse.
Duration: 8 hours (including border crossing)
Meals: Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner
Note: Accommodations at the guesthouse are basic, with shared facilities. This is a unique opportunity to experience Tajik hospitality and culture.
Depart at 09:00 to visit the ancient ruins of Penjikent, a Sogdian city dating back to the 5th century. Explore its bazaar, mosque, and Rudaki Museum, celebrating the famed Persian poet. After lunch, return to the Jartepa border to re-enter Uzbekistan. Transfer to your hotel in Samarkand, arriving in the evening.
Duration: 8-9 hours (depending on border crossing)
Meals: Breakfast/Lunch/-
Spend the day uncovering the treasures of Samarkand, including Registan Square, the Gur Emir Mausoleum, Bibi Khanum Mosque, and Shakhi-Zinda Necropolis. Visit Konigil village to witness traditional Samarkand paper-making techniques.
In the evening, take the Afrosiyob train to Bukhara (21:00 departure, 1 hour 35 minutes). Overnight at a hotel in Bukhara.
Duration: 14 hours (6-7 hours of sightseeing)
Meals: Breakfast/-/-
Explore the Old City of Bukhara, featuring landmarks such as the Lyabi Hauz Ensemble, Magoki-Attori Mosque, Chor-Minor Madrassah, Kalyan Minaret, and Ismail Samani Mausoleum. Visit the Ark Fortress and the city’s ancient trading domes. Free time in the afternoon. Overnight stay at the hotel.
Duration: 6-7 hours of sightseeing
Meals: Breakfast/-/-
Start your journey early at 06:30 with a drive to the Uzbekistan-Turkmenistan border crossing at Farap-Alat (100 km, approximately 1.5 hours). Upon arrival, complete border formalities, which may take some time. On the Turkmenistan side, meet your guide and driver, who will welcome you with a sign displaying your name. Continue with a scenic drive to the ancient city of Merv (300 km, approximately 5.5 hours), a vital Silk Road hub known for its international trade and craftsmanship during its heyday.
Explore the UNESCO-listed historical park of Merv, home to several fascinating ruins that showcase the city’s prominence in history. Highlights include the Sultan Sanjar Mausoleum, the Greater and Lesser Kyz-Kala fortresses, Erk-Kala, Gyaur-Kala, and the Keshk Fortress. Each structure tells a story of Merv’s architectural and cultural significance during its golden era.
Following your visit, drive to Mary Airport (40 km, approximately 30 minutes) and board an evening flight to Ashgabat, Turkmenistan’s capital. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel for a restful night.
Begin your day with a 09:00 sightseeing tour of Ashgabat, known for its striking white marble architecture, which has earned it a place in the Guinness Book of World Records. Your tour includes visits to the archaeological site of Old Nissa, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the imposing Spiritual Mosque, one of the largest mosques in Central Asia. Other highlights include the National Museum of History, Monument of Neutrality, Ertugrul Gazi Mosque, and Independence Park.
In the afternoon, embark on a thrilling 4-hour drive through the Karakum Desert to the Darvaza Gas Crater, famously referred to as the «Door to Hell.» Upon arrival, set up camp and take some time to explore and photograph this otherworldly site. Watch the sunset over the burning crater, creating a magical atmosphere. Enjoy a hearty fire-cooked dinner under the stars and experience a truly unique overnight stay in tents or shared yurts.
Note: The campsite provides basic amenities, including sleeping bags, pillows, and tents. Shared yurts for 3–5 people are also available. Toilets and basic washing facilities are located outside.
After breakfast, leave the Darvaza camp at 09:00 and drive through the scenic Karakum Desert to the Dashoguz-Shavat border crossing (270 km, approximately 4 hours). Once at the border, complete the necessary customs and immigration procedures on both the Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan sides.
Meet your Uzbek driver and continue the journey to Khiva (60 km, approximately 1 hour). Upon arrival, check into your hotel and enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure to explore the charming old city or relax after your travels.
Start your day at 10:00 with a guided walking tour of Itchan-Kala, Khiva’s UNESCO-listed old city and a well-preserved example of Islamic architecture. Explore the Mukhammad Amin Khan Madrassah, Kalta Minor, Juma Mosque, Tash-Khovli Palace, Pakhlavan Makhmud Mausoleum, and the towering Minaret of Islom Khodja. Each monument reflects Khiva’s rich history and intricate craftsmanship.
Enjoy free time in the afternoon to further discover Khiva on your own or shop for local handicrafts and souvenirs. In the evening, transfer to Urgench Airport (30 km, approximately 35 minutes) for your flight to Tashkent. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel for the night.
Check out of your hotel by 12:00, but enjoy some free time to explore Tashkent at your own pace. You may revisit favorite spots or simply relax before your scheduled transfer to Tashkent International Airport for your departure flight. This concludes your incredible two-week Central Asia adventure.
| Number of Tourists | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economy* (per tourist) | $6900 | $4600 | $4200 | $3750 | $3500 |
| Comfort** (per tourist) | $7300 | $4750 | $4400 | $3950 | $3700 |
* — based on 3* hotel accommodation / ** — based on 4* hotel accommodation /
All transportation throughout the tour Sightseeing tour programme with local, English speaking guides in each country Entrance fees to the museums, mausoleums and other sights Accommodation (shared double/twin room) Meals – lunches on days 4, 6, and 7, dinners on days 6 and 11 Demonstration of yurt construction in Kyrgyzstan Economy class tickets for flights: Bishkek–Tashkent, Mary–Ashgabat, Urgench–Tashkent Train tickets: Tashkent–Samarkand–Bukhara Visa support for Uzbekistan triple entry tourist visa and Turkmenistan tourist visa
Any Private Expenses Tips are not included, but would be appreciated Travel insurance Consular fees for tourist visa Full board (lunches and dinners, unless otherwise specified) Tour leader to accompany the travellers for the whole period of the tour (except for groups of 6 or more International flight tickets before and after the tour
This tour exceeded all my expectations! The itinerary was well-planned, balancing must-see landmarks and cultural experiences. I loved wandering through Bukhara’s vibrant bazaars and discovering Khiva’s intricate architecture—it felt like stepping back in time. The visit to the Savitsky Museum in Nukus was a surprising highlight; the art collection is world-class. The Darvaza gas crater was simply unforgettable, especially at night. The group size was perfect, allowing us to connect with others while still having personal space. Our guide was exceptional—knowledgeable, patient, and engaging. This journey left me with memories and friendships I’ll cherish forever.
I joined this tour as part of a small group, and it was a fantastic experience from start to finish. Every city had its own charm—Ashgabat’s futuristic look, Khiva’s ancient streets, and Samarkand’s legendary Registan were all unforgettable. I was impressed by the level of organization; everything ran smoothly, from transportation to meals. The highlight for me was the night at Darvaza’s gas crater—sitting under the stars while the crater glowed was surreal. Our guide was incredibly professional, providing fascinating historical details and making sure everyone felt included. This tour is a must for anyone seeking an immersive cultural adventure.
This tour was an absolute dream come true for anyone fascinated by the Silk Road! From the magnificent Registan in Samarkand to the surreal beauty of Darvaza’s gas crater, every destination was more breathtaking than the last. The guides were knowledgeable and friendly, sharing stories and insights that truly brought history to life. The accommodations were comfortable, and the food was delicious, offering a real taste of local culture. My favorite part was exploring the ancient city of Merv—its history is awe-inspiring. I would recommend this tour to anyone who loves history, architecture, and adventure.