Five Stans: Silk Road Highlights

Welcome to Turkmenistan, a land of striking contrasts and fascinating history! Take a moment to settle in, refresh, and soak in the unique energy of the city. This afternoon, embark on a guided tour of Ashgabat, where modern grandeur meets ancient heritage. Marvel at the city’s gleaming marble architecture, explore bustling markets, and glimpse iconic landmarks that reflect Turkmenistan’s rich culture and history. Consider this your introduction to the Silk Road’s enduring legacy and the adventures that lie ahead.

In the morning, explore Turkmenistan’s history at the National Museum, where fascinating exhibits showcase the country’s ancient civilizations, intricate art, and cultural treasures. Then, explore Old Nisa, a UNESCO World Heritage site and once a mighty Parthian city In the afternoon, journey across the Karakum Desert to the Darvaza Crater, the famous “Gates of Hell.” Settle into your yurt camp, enjoy dinner, and experience the crater’s fiery glow under the desert stars — a truly unforgettable sight.

Set off for Dashoguz and explore the local museum, discovering the culture and stories of this desert region. In the afternoon, it’s time for a mini adventure — crossing the border into Uzbekistan! Feel the excitement of entering a new country as you drive toward Khiva, one of the Silk Road’s most enchanting cities.

Step straight into a living museum with a guided tour of Khiva, where turquoise domes, towering minarets, and ancient city walls transport you back to Silk Road times. Wander through the UNESCO-listed old town, hearing stories of traders, rulers, and travellers who once passed through these very streets. In the afternoon, enjoy free time to explore at your own pace. Climb a minaret for sweeping views, browse local craft shops, or join an optional activity to dive even deeper into this captivating city.

Depart for your next Silk Road gem and board the train to Bukhara. Sit back and relax as the landscapes roll by — a classic overland journey connecting two historic cities. Upon arrival in Bukhara, settle in before heading out for a short orientation walk and debrief. Stretch your legs as you get your first taste of this atmospheric city, where ancient domes and winding lanes set the stage for tomorrow’s discoveries.

Explore Bukhara on a half-day guided walking tour around the beautifully restored mosques, madrassas, and covered markets, or trading domes, that make up the Old City. A centre for pottery, cloth, and carpets, Bukhara is centered around Lyabi-Hauz, a delightful pool of water surrounded by ancient mulberry trees. Wander the artisan shops and narrow twisting streets and alleyways, or sit at a café table and let the evening drift by. Opt to join a traditional cooking class, or indulge in a rejuvenating hammam bathhouse.

Spend the morning soaking up more of Bukhara’s magic. Wander at your own pace or join an optional tour through the old alleys, stepping inside traditional workshops to see local artisans at work. Later, head to the train station and board the train to Samarkand, another legendary Silk Road city. On arrival, check in to your hotel before heading out on an orientation walk to get your bearings.

Embark on a city tour of Samarkand, visiting Shaki Zinda complex, the bazaar, Bibi Khanum, and Registan Square. We'll also visit the famed Amir Timur Mausoleum, dedicated to the famous conqueror who once hoped to rebuild the empire of Genghis Khan. Spend the afternoon exploring the vibrant Siyob Bazaar, where colourful stalls overflow with fresh produce, spices, and local treats.

This morning, depart for the border and cross into Tajikistan, where a new chapter of the Silk Road unfolds. Continue on to Panjakent, stopping for a quick visit to the local market to pick up some fresh snacks for the journey ahead. Travel onward to Padrud Village, pausing along the way to admire the shimmering beauty of the famed Four Lakes, each one a different shade of blue and green. Upon arrival, check in to your guesthouse and explore the village on foot, enjoying a short hike through the surrounding landscapes. End the day with a home-cooked dinner at the guesthouse, soaking in the peaceful mountain atmosphere.

Lace up your boots for an optional hike to the sixth and seventh lakes, where dramatic mountain scenery and crystal-clear waters reward your efforts. After soaking in the views, retrace your route to the border, cross back into Uzbekistan, and continue to Samarkand. From there, board the high-speed train to Tashkent, watching the countryside blur past as you travel in comfort. Arrive in Tashkent in the evening, ready to experience Uzbekistan’s dynamic capital.

Dive into Uzbekistan’s vibrant capital with a half-day guided tour of Tashkent. Explore the lively Chorsu Bazaar, stroll through grand Independence Square, and descend into the beautifully decorated stations of the iconic Tashkent Metro — each one a work of art in its own right. The rest of the day is yours to enjoy. Wander leafy boulevards, relax in a café, or continue exploring this dynamic city at your own pace.

Enjoy a leisurely half-day to relax, shop, or explore Tashkent at your own pace before making your way to the airport for your flight to Bishkek. On arrival in Kyrgyzstan’s capital, check in to your hotel and settle in, ready to unwind or start discovering the city at your own pace.

Start the day with a visit to Ala-Too Square, the heart of Bishkek, and take in the surrounding landmarks. Continue to Osh Bazaar, a lively market where colorful spices, fresh produce, and local crafts offer a true taste of daily life in Bishkek. Next, visit Victory Square and the WWII Memorial, reflecting the country’s history and resilience. The afternoon is free to explore the city, visit local cafés and simply enjoy the rhythm of Bishkek at your own pace.

Depart Bishkek and journey to the historic Burana Tower, exploring the ancient minaret and the surrounding open-air balbal stones, remnants of centuries-old nomadic culture. Continue to your yurt camp, where the afternoon is yours to settle in and take in the views. In the evening, enjoy an included dinner featuring traditional Kyrgyz dishes.

After breakfast, enjoy a guided hike, reaching a stunning viewpoint over the surrounding valley. Take in the sweeping landscapes before returning to the yurt camp. Enjoy lunch at the camp, then spend the afternoon learning about the nomadic lifestyle and trying your hand at traditional games. In the evening, dive into Kyrgyz culture with a hands-on cooking experience, preparing Oromo and baursak before enjoying them for dinner under the stars.

Depart for the striking Fairytale Canyon, where jagged rock formations and colorful cliffs make for a landscape straight out of a storybook. Spend time exploring the canyon, taking in the dramatic scenery and snapping photos along the way. Continue to Barskoon Village to learn about local sustainable initiatives and even participate in yurt building, providing a hands-on glimpse into Kyrgyz traditions. Stop for lunch before driving to Karakol, where you’ll check in to your hotel. The rest of the day is free to relax or explore the town at your own pace.

Depart Karakol and journey to the border, where you’ll cross into Kazakhstan on foot, a small adventure marking your entry into a new country. On the Kazakh side, meet your vehicle and continue toward Charyn Canyon. Take time to explore the dramatic landscapes of Charyn Canyon, often called the “Grand Canyon of Central Asia,” before continuing on to Almaty. Check in to your hotel upon arrival and enjoy the rest of the day at leisure to relax or unwind after your journey.

Start the morning with a visit to Panfilov Park, home to the colorful Zenkov Cathedral, before strolling through the park and soaking in the city’s history. Next, head to the Green Bazaar for a guided walk through bustling stalls overflowing with fresh produce, spices, and local treats — a true taste of daily life in Almaty. The afternoon is free to explore Almaty at your own pace and enjoy the city's unique atmosphere.

Enjoy your final moments before departing at any time.