Turkmenistan, Kazakhstan, and Uzbekistan
Meet Central Asia II
Surrounded by mystical deserts and towering mountains, discover the Three Stans, three former Soviet republics of Central Asia. From the well-preserved Silk Road cities of Uzbekistan to the lush greenery and lakes of Kazakhstan, and from ancient mountain fortresses to snow-capped peaks in Kyrgyzstan, experience destinations each with its own unique story to tell.
Tour Dates
Optional Tours
Inclusions
- 4-star to 5-star hotel accommodations
- Daily hotel breakfast
- Transportation for the whole duration
- Professional private local guide and driver
- Entrance fees for the attractions
- Local tourist taxes and permits
Exclusions
- International airfare
- Personal travel insurance
- Visa fees and assistance
Day 01: Almaty
Welcome to Almaty! Meet your local guide on arrival and transfer to your hotel for check-in.
Day 02: Almaty – Issyk Lake – Almaty
Drive the ancient Kuldja trade route to the Issyk Museum Reserve, home to the legendary Golden Man replica and Saka-era artefacts. Continue to serene Lake Issyk in its mountain valley, then ride the Almaty cable car up Kok-Tobe Hill for panoramic city views and a visit to the surprising Beatles tribute.
Day 03: Almaty – Bishkek
Visit the Ascension Cathedral, one of the world's tallest wooden structures, and the solemn Square of the 28 Panfilov Heroes, honouring soldiers who defended Moscow in WWII. Then drive into Kyrgyzstan and check in to your hotel in Bishkek.
Day 04: Bishkek
Immerse and explore Bishkek's landmarks today, starting with Victory Square, Oak Park, the grand Ala-Too Square, the National Arts Museum, and the National Philharmonic. End with a visit to the lively Asian Bazaar, bursting with color, goods, and local energy.
Day 05: Bishkek – Ala Archa – Bishkek
Drive into the Tien Shan mountains to Ala Archa National Park, once a VIP-only Soviet retreat, for a hike through its dramatic gorge scenery. Return to Bishkek for a museum visit before the evening.
Day 06: Bishkek – Chunkurchak – Tashkent
Hop on a morning drive to Chunkurchak Gorge, a hidden Kyrgyz pasture of green valleys, red clay canyons, and snow-capped peaks. After a full day, return to Bishkek then fly to Tashkent for check-in.
Day 07: Tashkent – Samarkand
Experience a train ride to Samarkand, a destination as ancient as Babylon and Rome. Visit the majestic Registan Square (15th–17th century madrasahs), the UNESCO-listed Shakhi-Zindeh mausoleum complex, and the grand Bibi Khanum Mosque built in honor of Tamerlane's wife.
Day 08: Samarkand – Bukhara
Visit the 15th-century Ulughbek Observatory, browse souvenir-lined Broadway and the Siab oriental bazaar for Uzbek handicrafts, then watch over 400 women weave carpets using centuries-old techniques at a traditional carpet factory. Hop on a night train to Bukhara then check into your hotel.
Day 09: Bukhara
Explore Bukhara's ancient heart by visiting the 4th-century Citadel Ark, the exquisite 9th-century Samanid Mausoleum, Bolo-Hauz Mosque of 40 Columns, Chashma Ayub (Job's Well), the Nodir Divan Begi Madrasah. After that, make a stop to the stunning Poi Kalon complex with its 12th-century minaret, mosque, and Mir Arab Madrasah.
Day 10: Bukhara – Tashkent
Start early with a train ride to Tashkent, then explore the city highlights including Independence Square, the famous Tashkent Metro, and the atmospheric old quarter with Chorsu Bazaar, Kukaldash Madrasah, and the Hast Imam Complex, home to the 8th-century Othman Quran, the world's oldest surviving copy. After the last full day in Central Asia, transfer to the airport for your flight home.
Important Notes to Remember*
- Card payments are subject to service fees.
- You can customize each day based on your preferences.
- Hotels, cars, and attractions can be requested.
- Visa processing and assistance are offered.