Central Asia Adventure: 19-Day 5 Stan Silk Road Tour
Price
Duration
About the tour
Central Asia Adventure
Discover the Heart of the Silk Road
This Central Asia Adventure tour takes you through Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, and Turkmenistan.
During the Central Asia Adventure tour, you will explore ancient Silk Road cities, breathtaking mountain landscapes, colorful bazaars, alpine lakes, nomadic traditions, and UNESCO World Heritage Sites. In addition, you will discover the rich culture, cuisine, and hospitality of Central Asia.
Day 1 – Arrival in Ashgabat
Upon arrival at Ashgabat International Airport, you will meet our representative and transfer to the hotel.
After check-in and some rest, enjoy lunch before starting the city tour.
Ashgabat is famous for its white marble architecture and modern monuments. During the excursion, we will visit the Presidential Palace, Wedding Palace, Yildyz Hotel, Arch of Neutrality, and Independence Monument.
In addition, we will explore parks, memorial complexes, and the beautiful Ertogrul Gazy Mosque.
Dinner will be served at a local restaurant.
Accommodation: Hotel in Ashgabat
Meals: Lunch, Dinner
Day 2 – Darvaza Gas Crater Adventure
After breakfast, we will drive through the spectacular Karakum Desert toward the famous Darvaza Gas Crater.
Along the way, we will stop for lunch and enjoy desert landscapes.
Later, we will explore the burning gas crater, also called the “Door to Hell.” The fiery crater looks especially impressive at sunset and during the evening.
Finally, we will enjoy a traditional dinner and overnight stay in yurts under the stars.
Accommodation: Yurt camp near Darvaza
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 3 – Mary & Turkmen Culture
Today we will continue to Mary.
After lunch, we will visit the Regional Museum of History and explore local parks, markets, and cultural sites.
Meanwhile, guests will have time to experience everyday life in Turkmenistan.
Accommodation: Hotel in Mary
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 4 – Ancient Merv & Transfer to Bukhara
After breakfast, we will visit the legendary ancient city of Merv, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
During the excursion, we will explore ancient fortresses, mausoleums, and archaeological ruins, including Sultan Sanjar Mausoleum and Erk Kala.
Afterwards, we will cross the border into Uzbekistan and continue to Bukhara.
Accommodation: Hotel in Bukhara
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 5 – Bukhara & Train to Samarkand
Today we will discover the architectural treasures of Bukhara.
First, we will visit Lyabi Hauz Complex and the famous Kalon Minaret. Afterwards, we will explore Mir-i-Arab Madrasa, Ark Fortress, and Bolo Hauz Mosque.
Later, we will transfer to the railway station and take a comfortable train to Samarkand.
Accommodation: Hotel in Samarkand
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 6 – Samarkand City Tour
After breakfast, we will begin a full-day tour of Samarkand.
Highlights include Registan Square, Gur-e-Amir Mausoleum, Shah-i-Zinda Necropolis, and Bibi-Khanym Mosque.
In addition, we will visit Ulugh Beg Observatory and enjoy free time at local bazaars.
Accommodation: Hotel in Samarkand
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 7 – Penjikent & Seven Lakes
Early in the morning, we will cross into Tajikistan.
First, we will visit the ancient city of Sarazm. Afterwards, we will continue to Penjikent and then explore the stunning Seven Lakes region.
The alpine scenery and crystal-clear lakes create one of the most beautiful landscapes in Central Asia.
Accommodation: Guesthouse near Seven Lakes
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 8 – Journey to Dushanbe
After breakfast, we will drive through the scenic Anzob Pass toward Dushanbe.
Along the route, we will stop for photos and mountain views.
Later, we will explore the capital city, including Rudaki Park, Independence Square, and the National Museum.
Accommodation: 3★ hotel in Dushanbe
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Day 9 – Khujand & Transfer to Tashkent
Today we will travel north toward Khujand.
After lunch, we will visit Panjshanbe Bazaar and the Mausoleum of Sheikh Muslihiiddin.
Finally, we will cross the border and continue to Tashkent.
Accommodation: 3★ hotel in Tashkent
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 10 – Tashkent City Tour
During the city tour, we will visit Khast Imam Complex, Amir Timur Square, Independence Square, and Chorsu Bazaar.
In addition, guests will explore the Museum of History of Uzbekistan.
Accommodation: 3★ hotel in Tashkent
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 11 – Fergana Valley
After breakfast, we will travel to the famous Fergana Valley.
Here, we will visit traditional craft workshops and explore local markets, museums, and parks.
Accommodation: 3★ hotel in Fergana
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 12 – Osh & Flight to Bishkek
Today we will cross into Kyrgyzstan and continue to Osh.
During the city tour, we will visit Suleiman Mountain and Osh Bazaar.
Later, we will take a domestic flight to Bishkek.
Accommodation: 3★ hotel in Bishkek
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 13 – Son Kul Lake Adventure
After breakfast, we will drive through the scenic Moldo Ashu Pass toward Son-Kul Lake.
Upon arrival, guests will experience traditional nomadic culture and stay overnight in authentic yurts.
Accommodation: Yurt camp at Son-Kul Lake
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 14 – Nomadic Culture & Eagle Hunting
Today we will continue through Kalmak Ashu Pass and Kochkor village.
First, we will enjoy a traditional yurt show in Kyzyl-Tuu village. Afterwards, we will watch a spectacular eagle hunting demonstration in Bokonbaevo.
Accommodation: Guesthouse in Kaji Say
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 15 – Skazka Canyon & Jeti Oguz
After breakfast, we will explore the colorful Skazka Canyon.
Later, we will visit Barskoon Waterfall and continue to Jeti-Oguz Valley.
Accommodation: Yurt camp in Jeti Oguz
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 16 – Altyn Arashan & Karakol
Today we will travel by UAZ vehicle to Altyn Arashan.
Guests will enjoy mountain scenery, hot springs, and hiking opportunities before returning to Karakol.
Accommodation: 3★ hotel in Karakol
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 17 – Kolsai Lakes
After crossing into Kazakhstan, we will continue to Saty village and visit the breathtaking Kolsai Lakes. Visit Kazakhstan tourism
Accommodation: Guesthouse in Saty
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 18 – Kaindy Lake & Charyn Canyon
Today we will explore the famous Kaindy Lake and its submerged forest.
Afterwards, we will visit the dramatic Charyn Canyon before returning to Almaty.
Accommodation: 3★ hotel in Almaty
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 19 – Almaty & Departure
If time allows, we will enjoy a short city tour of Almaty, including Panfilov Park, Zenkov Cathedral, Green Bazaar, and Kok-Tobe Hill.
Finally, transfer to the airport for your departure flight.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Included/Excluded
- Airport transfers in Tashkent
- Accommodations as mentioned
- City tours as mentioned
- Urgench-Tashkent flight ticket
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Samarkand-Bukhara train
- Entrance fees
- Travel tax
- Tour package (LOI, Register fee., permit fee)
- Yurt/Tent (1 night)
- Guide (3 days)
- Transport (3 days)
- Meal (FB) during the whole route
- Entry tickets (Museums)
- Daily 1.5lt water
- Train tickets Turkmenabad-Ashgabat
- Meal
- 3* Hotel Sogdian in Khujand
- Transport
- English speaking Guide
- Entrance fees
- Airport, border transfers
- Bishkek-Osh flight
- Entrance fees(Suliamna Too, Cave museum, History Museum in Bishkek, Ala Archa National Park, Burana tower, Skazka canyon, Dungan Mosque)
- Yurt assembly show
- Transport
- 3* hotel accommodation 2 night, yurt camp 2 nights
- Meal as mentioned full board
- Guide
- Kazakhstan side:
- Airport transfer
- Entrance fees(Charyn canyon, History Museum, Museum of musical instrumnets, Kok Tobe, Shymbulak)
- Accommodations (2 night at 3* hotel, 1 night at guesthouse)
- Meal full board as mentioned
- Guide
- Transport
- Visa
- Insuranse
- Single supplement
- Personal Spendings
- Early check-in
- Late check out
- Cost of Turkmen visa & border fees (70 – 100 USD)
- Migration tax (12$)
- PCR test
- Extra meals, services, Folklore concerts and show
- Private expenses, gratuities
- Insurance
- Fee for using cameras on monuments
- Services not shown in the program
- Tips for driver and guide $ 5 per person per day
- Early check-in
- Late checkout
- Insurance
- Visa
- Personal spending
- Early check-in
- Late check out
- Single supplement
- Insurance
- Visa
- Personal spending
- Early check-in
- Late check out
- Single supplement
- Eagle Hunting show
- Insurance
- Visa
- Personal spending
- Early check-in
- Late check out
- Single supplement
Amenities
Tour plan
Upon arrival at Ashgabat International Airport, you will be greeted by our representative and transferred to your hotel.
After check-in and some rest, enjoy lunch.
In the afternoon, take a city tour. Ashgabat is renowned for having the highest number of white marble buildings in the world (Guinness World Record).
Highlights include the Presidential Palace, Wedding Palace, Yildyz Hotel, indoor Ferris Wheel, Arch of Neutrality, and the Monument of Independence.
You will also visit Ertogrul Gazy Mosque, modern sports complexes, residential areas, parks, and memorials dedicated to the 1948 earthquake and World War II.
Dinner will be served at a local restaurant or hotel.
Overnight at the hotel.
Lunch, and dinner included.
Breakfast at the hotel.
Depart from Ashgabat and enjoy a scenic drive through the Karakum Desert towards the Darvaza Gas Crater.
Lunch will be provided en route or near the crater at a local spot or camp.
Upon arrival, explore the mesmerizing Darvaza Gas Crater, known as the “Door to Hell,” where natural gas has been burning continuously for decades, creating a captivating fiery spectacle especially stunning at sunset and after dark.
Spend time walking around the crater edge, taking photos and learning about the geology and history of this unique site from your guide.
Enjoy a traditional dinner at the yurt camp near the crater.
Overnight stay in comfortable yurts near the Darvaza Gas Crater, experiencing the unique atmosphere of the desert under the starry sky.
Breakfast, lunch, and dinner included.
Breakfast at the camp/hotel.
Drive to Mary, a city rich in history and culture.
Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant upon arrival.
Explore Mary city:
- Visit the Mary Regional Museum of History and Local Lore, which features exhibits showcasing the cultural and historical heritage of the region.
- Take a stroll through the modern city center, visiting parks and local markets to experience the everyday life and atmosphere.
- See architectural landmarks and contemporary cultural sites around the city.
Dinner at the hotel or a local restaurant.
Overnight stay in Mary.
Breakfast, lunch, and dinner included.
Breakfast at the hotel in Mary.
Visit the ancient city of Merv, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the greatest cities of the Silk Road, rich with archaeological ruins including mausoleums, city walls, and ancient fortifications.
Explore key sites such as the Sultan Sanjar Mausoleum, the Great Kyz Kala fortress, and the ancient citadel of Erk Kala.
Enjoy lunch in the area, sampling local Turkmen cuisine.
After the visit, travel to the Merv-Farap border crossing to enter Uzbekistan.
Continue the journey to Bukhara, one of Central Asia’s most famous historic cities, renowned for its well-preserved medieval architecture.
Dinner and overnight stay in Bukhara.
Breakfast, lunch, and dinner included.
Breakfast at the hotel.
Start your day with a comprehensive city tour of Bukhara, one of Central Asia’s most ancient and well-preserved cities.
Visit the Lyabi Hauz Complex, a picturesque plaza with a historic pool surrounded by beautiful madrasas and teahouses.
Explore the Nadir Divan-Begi Madrasa, famous for its intricate tile work and stunning architecture.
Walk to the Kalon Minaret and Kalon Mosque, iconic landmarks of Bukhara. Take in the views and admire the magnificent Islamic architecture.
Visit the Mir-i-Arab Madrasa, an active religious school known for its beautiful design and history.
Tour the Ark Fortress, the ancient citadel that served as the residence for the emirs of Bukhara.
Stroll through the Bolo Hauz Mosque, notable for its wooden columns and elegant facade.
Visit the charming Chor Minor, with its four unique minarets and rich history.
Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant serving traditional Uzbek cuisine.
After lunch, transfer to the train station for a comfortable train journey to Samarkand.
Arrive in Samarkand in the evening, transfer to the hotel, and check-in.
Enjoy a delicious dinner at a local restaurant featuring traditional Samarkand dishes.
Overnight stay in Samarkand.
Breakfast, lunch, and dinner included.
Breakfast at the hotel in Samarkand.
Begin a full-day exploration of Samarkand, one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in Central Asia and a jewel of the Silk Road.
Visit the iconic Registan Square, surrounded by three magnificent madrasahs adorned with intricate tilework and stunning Islamic architecture.
Explore the Gur-e-Amir Mausoleum, the final resting place of the conqueror Timur (Tamerlane), featuring beautiful blue domes and ornate decorations.
Visit Shah-i-Zinda, a necropolis known for its stunning mausoleums and vibrant tile mosaics.
Explore the Bibi-Khanym Mosque, once one of the largest and most impressive mosques in the Islamic world.
Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant serving traditional Uzbek dishes.
In the afternoon, visit the Ulugh Beg Observatory, an important medieval astronomical center founded by Timur’s grandson.
End the day with free time to explore local bazaars or relax.
Dinner will be served at a local restaurant featuring authentic Central Asian cuisine.
Overnight stay in Samarkand.
Breakfast, lunch, and dinner included.
Breakfast at the hotel in Samarkand.
Early morning departure from Samarkand at approximately 07:30.
Drive to the border and cross at the Jartepa checkpoint around 09:00, entering Tajikistan.
Upon arrival in Penjikent, take a short stop to stretch and transfer to a 4x4 vehicle if necessary for the journey ahead.
Embark on an excursion to the 7 Lakes (Haftkul), a stunning natural area famous for its series of alpine lakes nestled in the mountains.
Visit 3 to 5 of the lakes, enjoying gentle walks around the scenic spots and opportunities for photography.
Enjoy a picnic lunch by one of the lakes, surrounded by breathtaking mountain scenery.
In the afternoon, return to Penjikent, arriving in the evening around 17:00 to 18:00.
Take some time to relax or explore the local town.
Overnight stay in Penjikent.
Breakfast, picnic lunch, and dinner included.
Breakfast at the hotel in Penjikent.
Depart early, around 08:00, for the drive to Dushanbe, the capital city of Tajikistan.
Enjoy the scenic journey through the rugged and dramatic landscapes of the Anzob Pass, a mountain route known for its breathtaking views and engineering feats.
The drive will take approximately 6 to 7 hours, including stops for rest and photo opportunities.
Upon arrival in Dushanbe, check in to your hotel and free time
Dinner at the hotel
Overnight stay in Dushanbe.
Breakfast, lunch, and dinner included.
Breakfast at the hotel in Dushanbe.
Morning city tour of Dushanbe, including visits to the National Museum, Rudaki Square, Victory Park, and the Flagpole.
Lunch at a local restaurant serving traditional Tajik cuisine.
Transfer to Dushanbe International Airport for your afternoon flight to Khujand (approximately 1 hour).
Upon arrival in Khujand, you will be met and transferred to the border crossing between Tajikistan and Uzbekistan.
After completing border formalities, continue your journey by road to Tashkent (approximately 3-4 hours).
Arrive in Tashkent in the evening, check into your hotel, and enjoy dinner.
Overnight stay in Tashkent.
Breakfast, lunch, and dinner included.
Breakfast at the hotel in Tashkent.
Full-day city tour of Tashkent, including visits to the historic Old Town, Khast Imam Complex, the beautiful Amir Timur Square, Independence Square, and the bustling Chorsu Bazaar.
Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant featuring traditional Uzbek cuisine.
In the afternoon, visit the State Museum of History of Uzbekistan.
Dinner at a local restaurant or at the hotel.
Overnight stay in Tashkent.
Breakfast, lunch, and dinner included.
Breakfast at the hotel.
Morning departure by train bus (approx. 5–6 hours).
Check-in at hotel in Fergana.
City tour including Central City Park, Fergana Regional Museum (history and culture), and visits to traditional craft workshops (ceramics, textiles).
Lunch at a local restaurant featuring national cuisine.
Evening stroll around the local market and streets.
Dinner and overnight in Fergana.
Breakfast, lunch, and dinner included.
Breakfast at the hotel.
Early transfer from Fergana to border.
Cross the border and transfer to Osh (~3–4 hours including border crossing).
City tour of Osh: Sacred Suleiman Mountain (walk and panoramic views), Osh Bazaar (one of Central Asia’s largest markets), Rabat Abdullo Mosque and historical sites.
Lunch with traditional dishes (plov, lagman).
Evening transfer to airport for flight to Bishkek.
Arrival and hotel check-in.
Dinner and overnight in Bishkek.
Breakfast, lunch, and dinner included.
Breakfast at the hotel.
Drive from Bishkek to Moldo Ashu Pass with stunning mountain views.
Continue to Son Kul Lake, famous for alpine scenery and nomadic culture.
Lunch en route or picnic.
Overnight in traditional yurt camps near the lake.
Dinner at the camp.
Breakfast, lunch, and dinner included.
Breakfast at the yurt camp.
Morning drive over Kalmak Ashu Pass and Kochkor
Experience the Kizil Tuu Yurt Show showcasing traditional nomadic lifestyle and lunch with local family
Witness the Bokonbaevo Eagle Hunting Show, a unique cultural spectacle.
Dinner and overnight in Kaji Say.
Breakfast, lunch, and dinner included.
Breakfast at the guesthouse.
Explore Skazka (Fairy Tale) Canyon with its stunning rock formations.
Visit Barskoon Waterfall for nature walks and photos.
Lunch en route or picnic.
Continue to Jeti Oguz Valley, famous for its striking red rock formations.
Dinner and overnight at yurt camp in Jeti Oguz Valley
Breakfast, lunch, and dinner included.
Breakfast at the yurt camp
Trek or Transfer by UAZ Track to Altyn Arashan Canyon, known for hot springs and beautiful mountain scenery.
Lunch in Altyn Arashan yurt camp
Return to Karakol
Dinner and overnight in Karakol.
Breakfast, lunch, and dinner included.
Breakfast at the hotel.
Cross the Kegen border post into Kazakhstan
Stop in the village of Saty.
Lunch in Saty
Visit the Kolsai Lakes, a series of stunning alpine lakes.
Dinner and overnight at guesthouse in Saty.
Breakfast, lunch, and dinner included.
Breakfast at the guesthouse or hotel.
Morning visit to Kaindy Lake by UAZ track with its famous submerged forest.
Lunch at guesthouse in Saty
Explore Charyn Canyon, often called the “Grand Canyon of Central Asia.”
Drive to Almaty city.
Dinner and overnight in Almaty.
Breakfast, lunch, and dinner included.
Breakfast at the hotel.
If you have time, City tour including Panfilov Park, Zenkov Cathedral, Green Bazaar, and Kok-Tobe Hill.
Lunch at a local restaurant.
Transfer to Almaty International Airport for your departure flight.
Breakfast, lunch included.
