27 days in the heartlands of Central Asia

Almaty

Day 1: Welcome to Almaty!

Upon arrival into Almaty airport, look out for the friendly face of our team who will assist you with your luggage before driving you to your hotel in the heart of Kazakhstan’s southern capital.

You’ll embark on a sightseeing tour to explore the central part of Almaty. You will visit the Green Bazaar, a great chance to experience an atmosphere of the real Central Asian market, its colors, smells and crowds. 

The tour will continue onto Panfilov Park, where you will see Zenkov Cathedral and the Memorial of Glory and Eternal Flame, dedicated to the memory of the fighters who died for the freedom and independence of the country. 

Afterwards, you will go to Medeo Gorge before continuing onto Kok-Tobe hill where you will go by picturesque winding mountain roads. Stroll along the paths of the Kok-Tobe park and admire the magnificent panorama of the city from the special observation deck.

Almaty - Charyn Canyon - Almaty

Day 2: Marvel at the Splendour of Charyn Canyon

Charyn Canyon is one of many unique natural monuments of Kazakhstan. The canyon is about 12 million years old and surprises with its vertical cliffs, reminiscent of ancient castles, created by wind, sun and rain. It will take about 3 hours to reach the canyon from Almaty.

On the tour, you will hear about the history and nature of the region, about Kazakh people, their life and traditions while having lunch in a local cafe. 

As soon as you see Charyn Canyon you will be impressed with the beauty and splendour of the canyon. You can admire the grand panorama then walk through the maze of the Castles Valley with its inaccessible walls overhanging you.

Almaty - Bishkek

Day 3: Journey towards Bishkek

After breakfast this morning, a driver will meet you at your hotel to transfer you to the Kazak-Kyrgyz borders.

Your guide will pick you up at Kazakh-Kyrgyz border and accompany you to the capital and largest city of Kyrgyzstan. Bishkek is situated at about 800 meters (2,600 ft) altitude near the northern range of the Kyrgyz Ala Too range, providing a spectacular backdrop to the city. 

Today is entirely dedicated to a guided tour of Bishkek which includes visiting Pobeda Square (Victory Square), Duboviy Park (Oak Park), Central Ala-Too Square, the National Arts Museum, National Philharmonic, and many others places of interest.

Check into your hotel to enjoy a comfortable night’s sleep while reflecting on the today’s sites.

Bishkek - Ala Archa - Bishkek

Day 4: Hike through Ala Archa Gorge

We hope that after a comfortable sleep and a delectable breakfast that you are ready for your next adventure in Kyrgyzstan.

This morning, a driver will pick you up for the trip to Ala Archa gorge national park. In the era of the Soviets, only V.I.P. people had permission to walk here so prepare for a magnitude of beauty unlike any other. 

The Ala Archa gorge is on a spur of the Tien Shan mountain range located just 45 km from Bishkek. You can have a short hiking tour to see a panoramic view of the gorge. 

Afterwards, return to Bishkek where you will have some free time for shopping.

Bishkek - Burana - Issyk Kul

Day 5: Venture into the Heart of Kyrgyzstan

After a comfortable night’s rest and a heart breakfast, we will leave Bishkek for Issyk Kul Lake, where we will explore what is considered as one of the most famous attractions of the Issyk Kul region. 

Your guide will pick you up at 8 a.m to journey to the “Pearl of Central Asia”, the world’s second largest alpine lake that is surrounded by the celestial mountains. Due to the saltiness of its waters, Lake Issyk Kul possesses curative qualities. 

En route to the lake you will visit Burana Tower, an 11th century minaret, and an open air museum of Balbals or stone warriors.

Issyk Kul - Karakol

Day 6: Discover the History of Karakol

Today starts with breakfast at 8 o’clock before we continue the trip onto the town of Karakol. 

Along the way, we will take a short break to give you the opportunity to visit ancient stone inscriptions dating back to 800 B.C. These petroglyphs were made more than 2000 years ago by shamans. 

Then we’ll continue our way along the northern shore of the lake to the town of Karakol. You will visit the Dungan mosque. One of its highlights is the fact that it was built in a Chinese style without using a single metal nail. The mosque will be followed by a visit to an old wooden Orthodox Church.

Karakol - Kochkar

Day 7: Get Lost in Otherworldly Canyons

After breakfast, we will head for the Jety Oguz valley, its name meaning “seven bulls”. The name is symbolic, because there are seven huge red-brown rocks resembling ranked furious bulls standing together. Especially romantic is the rock "broken heart" located at the entrance to the gorge. If you want it is possible to go on the top of a mountain to see a panorama view of the gorge. 

On the southern shore of Lake Issyk-Kul, about 4 km from the village of Tosor, there is an unusual place – Skazka (Fairy Tale) Canyon. Skazka is a wonderful place where the red sand formation, take various fabulous forms. 

Then we continue our trip to Bokonbaeva village, where we will meet a local eagle-hunter who hunts hares and foxes with the help of eagles, a traditional way of nomadic hunting.

Kochkak - Bishkek

Day 8: Experience the Daily Life of Locals in Kochkor

In Kochkor village, a local family will show you how our national felt carpets are made. You can even learn the art of felt making and create your own carpet together with them! You will have a chance to make your own picture with a help of colored wool and then all together we will beat it in a special way to get a nice felt carpet. 

Afterwards we’ll return to Bishkek where upon arrival you will visit our Asian Bazaar! You will be able to take a lot of dynamic photos of bustling local life, a bazaar that is a noisy and colorful tapestry of fabrics, produce, and people selling and buying goods.

Bishkek - Osh

Day 9: Make Your Way to Osh

This morning we will transfer you to the airport for a flight to the city of Osh. 

In Osh, you will have a walk to visit a famous and special place - Suleiman Mountain. Suleiman Too (Solomon’s Mountain) is situated in the city center and is considered a place of pilgrimage for local Muslims, because according to the legend, biblical prophet Solomon was buried at the foot of it. In 2009 the mountain became the first historical and architectural object of Kyrgyzstan, which was added to the UNESCO World Heritage List.

It is not a real city tour without visiting our Asian Bazaar where you’ll be able to take a number of photos capturing the hustle and bustle, colours and charm.

Osh - Andijan - Fergana

Day 10: Relax in Fergana

In the morning after breakfast, we’ll drive to the Uzbek-Kyrgyz borders. 

Upon arrival in Uzbekistan, you’ll meet your driver and transfer to Fergana. Afterwards, transfer to hotel, check-in and spend the rest of the day at your own pace and leisure. There’s nothing on the itinerary for today so feel free to do as you please.

Why not explore the city around you or rest in the comfort of your hotel. No matter the choice, take comfort knowing you picked the right one for you.

Fergan - Kokand - Tashkent

Day 11: Head for the Uzbek Capital

After breakfast at your hotel this morning, meet your driver to begin the transfer to Tashkent. 

Drive through mountains and passes of Kamchik, located in the Chatkal mountains range. Make a rest stop en route in Kokand and visit the palace of Khudoyar Khan and Juma mosque. 

After lunch, we’ll hit the road before our next stop at Rishtan, the center of ceramics in the region. Visit the house of a well-known ceramic master Rustam Usmanov whose works are exhibited on world exhibitions. Enjoy a pottery workshop and have a look at ceramic collection in a small museum before arriving in Tashkent. 

Tashkent

Day 12: Immerse Yourself in the History of Tashkent

This morning, we’ll begin a sightseeing tour of the city’s “Old Town: which has retained much of its charm. First we’ll visit the Khast Imam religious complex, where you will visit the 16th century Mausoleum of Kaffal Ash Shashi, Barakchan Medresse, which is now an art workshop center, Tilla Sheikh Mosque. 

The main point will be Medrese Muyi Muborak, where you will see the genuine 7th-century Holy Quran book by Chalif Osman before ending with a visit to the mosque Hazrati Imam. 

Our next destination will be Bazar Chorsu - the biggest bazar in Tashkent, where you will enjoy oriental atmosphere with smell of spices and fresh fruits. In the Museum of Applied Arts you can get acquainted with Uzbek art, customs and traditions before ending with a visit Independence Square and Amir Timur Square.

Tashkent - Khujand

Day 13: Explore the Beauty of Khujand

We hope that after a comfortable sleep and a delectable breakfast that you are ready for your next adventure in the region.

We’ll drive to the Uzbek-Tajik border where upon arrival and border formalities, you will be met by the driver and guide and transferred to the city of Khujand, the second largest city in Tajikistan. 

Khujand is one of the oldest cities in Central Asia. Its population is approximately one hundred and seventy thousand people. The city stands on the deep Syr Darya river, surrounded by mountains and greenery, in clean air. After arrival in Khujand, we’ll begin a short city tour to visit Panjshanbe bazar, Moslehiddin mosque and medrese and the Timurmalik museum of antiquities.

Khujand - Dushanbe

Day 14: Journey through the Wonder of the Region

Today we’ll be departing Khujand headed for Dushanbe through the Shakhristan and Anzob tunnels and along Varzob gorge. 

We’ll be driving a lot today but of course there’ll be rest stops en route including a visit to Istaravshan, Mugh teppa fortress, Kok-Gumbaz and Chor-Gumbaz mosque and its local bazaar. Afterwards, we’ll continue onto Dushanbe where upon arrival you’ll be transferred to your hotel, to check-in for your overnight stay. 

Dushanbe

Day 15: Explore the Heart of Dushanbe

Enjoy breakfast at hotel this morning and prepare for a full day sightseeing tour of Dushanbe.

Visit the Opera & Ballet Theater, Dusti square, monument of Somoni and the National museum of Tajikistan. We’ll stop at “Kokhi Nawruz”, a complex of official meetings of presidents and place for government summits before departing for Hissar. 

Our visit here means experiencing the reconstruction of Hissar fortress, the residence of the Bukhara Emir as well as the old medrese and small museum. 

Our drive back to Dushanbe means we’ll arrive in time to visit the Bazaar and Park of the Victory before returning to your hotel in the evening.

Dushanbe - Iskander Kul Lake

Day 16: Experience the Magic of Iskanderkul Lake

An early departure this morning means making our way toward Iskanderkul Lake whose turquoise waters are calm and surrounded by great ranges of Fann Mountains known far beyond Tajikistan borders. 

Named after the great military leader and conqueror Alexander the Great, it is one of the most spectacular and picturesque places in Fann mountains. 

Not far from the lake is Iskanderdaria River, where a 38 metres waterfall, known as “Niagara” entrances many who stand, spending time watching the water falling. Near here is an old Archa or juniper tree with thousands of ribbons, pieces of fabrics and even cloth labels tighten over. You can tie the ribbon and make a wish which will, of course, come true some day!

Iskander Kul Lake - 7 Lakes - Panjikent

Day 17: Marvel at the Beauty of the 7 Lakes

Early this morning you’ll depart for Marguzor Seven lakes (“Haft Kul”), passing by the Ayni district and along Zeravshan valley. 

You’ll drive along the beautiful Marguzor lakes with photo stops and short walking trips along the way. According to the ancient legend, an old man got lost in the valley and his seven daughters came to look for him. Nobody respond to their call and the man was never found so the girls sat along the narrow trail and cried. Their tears filled the valley up to create 7 lakes, beautiful and different like the girls. 

You’ll have some free time for walking before we continue the drive to Penjikent, our stop for the evening.

Panjikent - Samarkand

Day 18: Immerse Yourself in the Ruins of the Sarazm

This morning you’ll visit local Bazar before transferring to Uzbek - Tajik border point. Along the way, we’ll make a rest stop at the UNESCO site of Sarazm which means “where the land begins”.

It is an archaeological site bearing testimony to the development of human settlements in Central Asia, from the 4th millennium BCE to the end of the 3rd millennium BCE.

It demonstrates the existence of commercial and cultural exchanges and trade relations with peoples over an extensive geographical area, extending from the steppes of Central Asia and Turkmenistan, to the Iranian plateau, the Indus valley and as far as the Indian Ocean. 

Upon arrival in Samarkand, you’ll meet your driver who will transfer you to your hotel for the night.

Samarkand

Day 19: Uncover the Secrets of Samarkand

This morning, meet your guide to begin a sightseeing tour of Samarkand.

While you’ll visit many sites today, the most impressive include Registan Square, am ensemble of three madrasahs that is a unique example of town-building art, a remarkable pattern of the architectural planning of the main town square.

In the afternoon you will explore other miracles of the city: the Pearl of Samarkand – Bibi Khanum Mosque. Constructed in 1399 by the best architects and artisans of Khorossan, Azerbaijan, Persia and India, the mosque was compared on the beauty and shining with the Milky Way while the Siyab Bazaar, is the most ancient and biggest in Samarkand.

Samarkand - Shakhrisabz - Bukhara

Day 20: Discover Shakhrisabz

In the morning drive to Bukhara via Shakhrisabz city with two stop en route. 

At Demons Plateau, close to Urgut city, you’ll explore ancient stone objects with fascinating shapes of demons before our second photo stop at the highest point of Takhtaracha pass. 

Upon arrival in Shakhrisabz, you’ll be greeted by the gigantic entrance portal of Ak-Sarai Palace welcoming you. 

An excursion of the city will see you visit the Mausoleum of Jakhongir and Amir Temur’s empty tomb in the Dorus Siadat Complex amongst others. In the afternoon, we’ll drive back to Samarkand before continuing onto Bukhara.

Bukhara

Day 21: Be Entranced by the Mystery of Bukhara

This morning, meet your guide to discover the most mysterious city of the Silk Road – Bukhara. Its magnificent historical monuments attract thousands of visitors annually, entranced by their beauty. 

Today’s full day sightseeing includes visits to Magok-i Attari Mosque, one of the oldest architectural monuments where you will find shrines, the remains of a Buddhist monastery and a Zoroastrian Temple. Explore ArkCitadel –a residence of Bukhara khans, a massive fortress, built and occupied around the 5th century AD. Then visit the mausoleum of Ismail Samani, one of the most ancient monuments in the city and the mosque Chor Minor, Four Minarets, hidden in the alleys of the ancient district of the city.

Bukhara - Farab - Mery - Merv - Ashgabat

Day 22: Dive into the Region’s History in Merv

Early this morning, you’ll transfer to the Uzbek-Turkmen border before continuing onto the UNESCO World Heritage site of ancient Merv. 

At what was once a major center of international trade and crafts located on the Silk Road, you will learn the history and cultures of several cities. The oasis was part of the empire of Alexander the Great and some cities include Erk Kala and Gyaur Kala, which was occupied for 1,500 years during the entire Parthian and Sassanid periods and at the beginning of the Islamic period. 

In the evening, we’ll board a flight headed for Ashgabat where we’ll spend the evening.

Ashgabat - Darwaza

Day 23: Discover the Heart of Ashgabat

This morning is dedicated to visiting the the sites of Ashgabat, the city of love. After the earthquake of October 6 1948, the city has been completely rebuilt. We’ll visit Independence Park, the Arc of Neutrality and the National Museum of History which presents a beautiful collection of objects before continuing onto the Russian Bazaar.

Afterwards, we’ll drive to the Darwaza gas crater located in the middle of Karakum desert empire, where we’ll set up camp for the evening. Enjoy a delicious fire-cooked meal for dinner near the burning gas crater.

Darwaza - Dashoguz - Shavat - Khiva

Day 24: Dive into the Past at Kunya Urgench

This morning, you’ll depart Gaz crater and drive to Kunya Urgench for an excursion. 

Kunya Urgench was the capital of the Great Khorezm Empire in 1st c. A.D. Today, all historical sites of Kunya Urgench are included in the World Heritage List of UNESCO. There you will meet your guide and explore the highest minaret of Central Asia –Kutlug-Timur minaret, the mausoleum of Nadjmiddin-Kubra, the mausoleum of Mongol princess Torebeg-Khanum amongst other. 

After lunch, continue sightseeing to explore Fakhr-ad-Din-Razi mausoleum and other mausoleums, minarets and fortresses. 

Once the tour is finished, we’ll drive to the Uzbekistan-Turkmenistan, border point Shavat-Dashoguz, before continuing to Khiva for the evening.

Khiva

Day 25: Explore the Beating Heart of Khiva

After breakfast this morning, prepare to explore this marvellous city, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. 

The sightseeing program includes excursions to all monuments of Ichan Kala, the inner town protected by brick walls some 10 m high of the old Khiva oasis, which was the last resting-place of caravans before crossing the desert to Iran. 

Although few very old monuments still remain, it is a coherent and well-preserved example of the Muslim architecture of Central Asia. Juma Mosque, Kunya Ark and Tash-Kauli Palace are all sites you’ll visit, each distinct in its own way.

After lunch, explore other exceptional monuments including the Medresa of Islam-Khodja with its elegant minaret at 45m and the Medresa of Alla-Kuli, a celebrated example of harmonious blending into an ancient urban fabric.

Khiva - Urgench - Tashkent

Day 26: One Final Adventure

We hope that after a comfortable sleep and a delectable breakfast that you are ready for one final adventure in the region.

You have the entire day to explore Khiva at your own pace and leisure. Why not visit your favourite sites from yesterday or explore those yet seen?

In the evening meet your driver at the hotel for your transfer to the airport of Urgench to take a domestic flight to Tashkent. Upon arrival, a driver will meet you to transfer you to your hotel.

Tashkent

Day 27: Say Farewell to the Region

This morning you’ll have some free time to spend it your own pace and leisure, enjoying everything that this quaint city has to offer.

Depending when your flight is, you may need to head straight to the airport.

Unfortunately, all good things must come to an end but we hope you have enjoyed your time exploring the very best that the region has to offer. The rich natural beauty, storied history and the people that makes the countries what they are.

We hope you have had a memorable trip and wish you pleasant onward travels!