A complete journey across all five Stans, combining Silk Road cities, mountains, deserts and local culture.

What is Included

Arrive in Almaty, the starting point of your Central Asia journey. After meeting your driver at the airport, transfer to the hotel and check in according to hotel policy. The rest of the day is free to rest after your flight, explore the nearby streets independently or prepare for the coming multi-country route.

Arrival in Almaty, Kazakhstan

Begin with a scenic drive toward the Chimbulak mountain area, where the Tian Shan range frames the city with dramatic alpine views. After returning to Almaty, continue with key city highlights such as Panfilov Park, Zenkov Cathedral, the Museum of National Musical Instruments and the lively pedestrian area around Arbat Street.

Almaty City Tour and Tian Shan Mountain Views

Leave Almaty and travel by road toward Bishkek, passing open landscapes and crossing into Kyrgyzstan. After arrival, enjoy a short introduction to the Kyrgyz capital, including Oak Park, Ala-Too Square, the Manas monument, the Philharmonic Hall and Victory Square. The day gives a first impression of Kyrgyzstan’s Soviet-era architecture and modern city life.

Almaty – Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan

Travel outside Bishkek to visit Burana Tower, an important remnant of the ancient city of Balasagun. Continue to the Don Aryk area for a cultural visit that may include traditional hospitality, local lunch and an introduction to Kyrgyz nomadic heritage. Later, transfer to the airport for the flight to Tashkent, Uzbekistan.

Bishkek – Burana Tower – Don Aryk – Tashkent

Explore Tashkent, a capital where old neighborhoods, broad Soviet-style avenues and modern public spaces exist side by side. Visit the Old City area, Khast-Imam surroundings, Chorsu Bazaar, selected metro stations, the Museum of Applied Arts and Amir Timur Square. The day introduces Uzbekistan’s urban culture before the route continues to the great Silk Road cities.

Tashkent City Tour, Uzbekistan

Transfer to the railway station and travel by train to Samarkand, one of the most celebrated cities of the Silk Road. Upon arrival, visit Gur Emir Mausoleum, Registan Square, Bibi Khanum Mosque, Siyob Bazaar and Shakhi-Zinda Necropolis. If time allows, continue to Konigil village to learn about traditional Samarkand paper-making.

Tashkent – Samarkand by Train

Drive to the Uzbekistan–Tajikistan border and meet your Tajik team after completing formalities. Continue toward the Seven Lakes in the Fann Mountains, a chain of mountain lakes known for changing shades of blue, green and turquoise. Enjoy the scenery and lunch in the lake area before continuing to Penjikent for overnight.

Samarkand – Seven Lakes – Penjikent, Tajikistan

Visit ancient Penjikent, once an important Sogdian settlement with archaeological remains of houses, a citadel and religious structures. Continue with a short look at the local bazaar, mosque and Rudaki Museum before returning across the border into Uzbekistan. From the Uzbek side, continue by road to Bukhara and check in at the hotel.

Penjikent – Samarkand – Bukhara

Spend the day walking through Bukhara’s atmospheric old city. The sightseeing route may include Lyabi-Hauz, Chor-Minor, Kalyan Minaret, Miri-Arab Madrasa, Ulugbek and Abdulazizkhan madrasahs, Ark Fortress, Ismail Samani Mausoleum, Chashma-Ayub and the traditional trading domes. Free time may be available later in the day.

Bukhara Old City Tour

Enjoy a slower morning in Bukhara before driving to the Farap-Alat border crossing. After completing Uzbekistan and Turkmenistan border procedures, meet the Turkmen team and continue to Turkmenabat Airport for the flight to Ashgabat. On arrival, take an evening drive through the city to see its illuminated monuments and wide marble avenues.

Bukhara – Turkmenabat – Ashgabat, Turkmenistan

Start with an introductory tour of Ashgabat and nearby historical sites, including Old Nisa, a UNESCO-listed Parthian fortress area, and selected city landmarks. In the afternoon, drive into the Karakum Desert toward Darvaza Gas Crater, visiting desert crater sites along the way when possible. Arrive before sunset and experience the burning crater after dark.

Ashgabat – Old Nisa – Darvaza Gas Crater

After a simple camp-style breakfast, drive north through the Karakum Desert toward the Dashoguz-Shavat border crossing. Complete exit and entry procedures, then meet the Uzbek driver and continue to Khiva. After arrival, check in at the hotel and enjoy free time inside or near the old city walls.

Darvaza – Dashoguz Border – Khiva, Uzbekistan

Discover Khiva’s UNESCO-listed Ichan-Kala, a compact walled city filled with madrasahs, minarets, palaces and narrow lanes. Visit highlights such as Kalta Minor, Juma Mosque, Tash-Khovli Palace, Pakhlavan Makhmud Mausoleum and Islam Khodja Minaret. Later, transfer to Urgench Airport for the flight to Tashkent and overnight in the capital.

Khiva City Tour – Urgench – Tashkent

Check out from the hotel and enjoy free time depending on your flight schedule. Transfer to Tashkent International Airport for departure. This concludes your Five Stans journey through Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan, Tajikistan and Turkmenistan.

Tashkent Departure

Itinerary

Almaty → Bishkek → Burana Tower → Don Aryk → Tashkent → Samarkand → Seven Lakes → Penjikent → Bukhara → Turkmenabat → Ashgabat → Old Nisa → Darvaza Gas Crater → Dashoguz/Shavat border → Khiva → Urgench → Tashkent

Five Stans Central Asia Tour Route Map

Travel across Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan, Tajikistan and Turkmenistan on a 14-day Central Asia tour featuring Silk Road cities, mountain scenery, desert landscapes, Darvaza Gas Crater and Khiva.

Five Stans Central Asia Tour | 14-Day Silk Road Journey

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Five Stans Central Asia Tour Overview

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Five Stans Central Asia Tour

Discover Ashgabat, Ancient Merv, Darvaza Gas Crater and Turkmen traditions on a compact private journey.

Arrive at Ashgabat International Airport, complete arrival formalities and meet the local team for transfer to your hotel with early check-in. In the afternoon, begin your introduction to Ashgabat, a capital known for its bright white-marble architecture and wide ceremonial avenues. Visit major landmarks such as the Olympic Stadium area, Independence Monument and Park, the main flagpole, Arch of Neutrality, Constitution Monument, Ferris Wheel, Wedding Palace viewpoint, Halk Hakydasy Memorial Complex, Alabay Monument and Ertogrul Gazy Mosque. Overnight in Ashgabat.

Arrival in Ashgabat and City Tour

After breakfast, drive east toward Mary and continue to Ancient Merv, one of the great historical centers of the Silk Road and an important city of the Islamic world. After lunch in Mary, explore the archaeological zone with sites such as Greater and Lesser Kyz Gala, the Askhabs Complex, Erk Gala, Gyaur Gala, Hoja Yusup Hamadani Complex, Sultan Sanjar Mausoleum and Muhamed Ibn Zeid Mausoleum. Return to Mary for dinner and overnight at the hotel.

Ashgabat – Mary – Ancient Merv

Begin the day with a short sightseeing tour of Mary, including the city center, Mary Inspirational Palace, Mary Library, Mary Grand Mosque, Mary Bazaar and one of the oldest Russian Orthodox churches in Turkmenistan. After lunch at a local restaurant, drive back to Ashgabat. Dinner is served at a local restaurant, followed by overnight at the hotel.

Mary City Highlights – Return to Ashgabat

Visit the Turkmen Carpet Museum, home to rare examples of traditional carpet designs from different Turkmen tribes and remarkable handwoven carpets, including large-scale pieces recognized internationally. Continue with a walking tour through the historic part of Ashgabat, starting near the Magtymguly Drama Theater and passing the Lenin Statue, State Central Archive building, Ashgabat Mayor’s Office and Russian Bazaar. The walk continues toward Inspiration Park, known for its statues of Turkmen poets. In the afternoon, drive across the Karakum Desert to Darvaza. Visit the water, mud and burning gas craters when conditions allow. In the evening, settle into a traditional yurt camp and enjoy a barbecue dinner near the glowing Darvaza Gas Crater.

Carpet Museum, Old Ashgabat Walk and Darvaza Gas Crater

Enjoy a simple picnic-style breakfast in the desert before driving back to Ashgabat. After lunch at a local restaurant, check in at the hotel and take time to rest and freshen up. Later in the afternoon, visit the Halk Hakydasy National Memorial Complex, which includes memorials connected with the 1948 earthquake, World War II and other important chapters of Turkmen history. In the evening, take a short night tour of Ashgabat to see the city illuminated before dinner and overnight at the hotel.

Darvaza – Ashgabat and Evening City Tour

After breakfast, visit Old Nisa, a UNESCO World Heritage Site connected with the early Parthian kingdom. Continue to Gokdepe Fortress, remembered for its role in Turkmen resistance during the Russian Empire’s advance, and visit the Saparmyrat Hajy Mosque, known for its turquoise roof and white-marble design. On the way back to Ashgabat, stop at the Turkmenbashi Ruhi Mosque and Mausoleum. Overnight in Ashgabat.

Old Nisa, Gokdepe, and Akhalteke Horses

Breakfast at the hotel. Depending on your departure schedule, transfer to Ashgabat International Airport or continue with any additional arrangements booked separately. This concludes your Turkmenistan Highlights Tour.

Departure from Ashgabat

Ashgabat → Mary → Ancient Merv → Ashgabat → Darvaza Gas Crater → Old Nisa → Gokdepe → Ashgabat

Turkmenistan Highlights Tour Route Map

Discover Turkmenistan on a 7-day private tour featuring Ashgabat, Ancient Merv, Darvaza Gas Crater, Nisa, Gokdepe, Akhalteke horses and local Turkmen hospitality.

Turkmenistan Highlights Tour | 7-Day Ashgabat, Merv & Darvaza Journey

Turkmenistan Highlights Tour Overview

Turkmenistan Highlights Tour

Travel from Ashgabat across the Karakum Desert to Darvaza Gas Crater, then continue to the Shavat border for onward travel to Khiva.

Arrive at Ashgabat International Airport, where you will be met by the local team and transferred to your hotel with early check-in arranged according to the program. Enjoy some free time before beginning an afternoon sightseeing tour of Turkmenistan’s capital. See key landmarks including the Wedding Palace, Yildyz Hotel, Ferris Wheel, Constitution Monument, Arch of Neutrality, Independence Monument and Park, Ertogrul Gazy Mosque, Ashgabat Olympic Stadium and the Halk Hakydasy Memorial Complex. Later, visit a horse stable to learn about the famous Akhalteke horse, one of the strongest symbols of Turkmen heritage and a breed developed in the region over many centuries. Overnight at the hotel in Ashgabat.

Arrival in Ashgabat – City Highlights and Akhalteke Horses

After breakfast, check out from the hotel around noon. Depending on the operating day, visit the Altyn Asyr Oriental Bazaar, a large open market known for carpets, textiles, jewelry, traditional clothing and other local goods. When Altyn Asyr Bazaar is closed, visit Gulistan Bazaar in central Ashgabat, where travelers can explore food stalls, spices, dried fruits, clothing and souvenir shops. In the afternoon, leave Ashgabat and drive approximately 276 km across the Karakum Desert to Darvaza. Visit the famous burning gas crater and, when local conditions allow, see the nearby water and mud craters as well. In the evening, enjoy the desert atmosphere as the crater glows after sunset. Dinner is served as a barbecue at the camp. Overnight in a traditional Turkmen yurt or private tent near Darvaza.

Ashgabat Bazaar – Karakum Desert – Darvaza Gas Crater

Enjoy a simple picnic-style breakfast at the desert camp. After breakfast, depart Darvaza and travel north toward the Dashoguz region and the Turkmenistan–Uzbekistan border at Shavat, approximately 309 km away. On arrival at the border, complete the Turkmenistan-side departure formalities. The Belet Travel service concludes at the Shavat border, from where travelers can continue onward to Khiva with their separately arranged Uzbekistan-side transfer.

Darvaza – Dashoguz Region – Shavat Border

Ashgabat → Darvaza Gas Crater → Shavat Border / Khiva Gateway

Ashgabat to Khiva via Darvaza – 3 Days Tour Route Map

Travel from Ashgabat to the Shavat border for Khiva on a 3-day private Turkmenistan tour featuring Ashgabat sightseeing, Akhalteke horses, Darvaza Gas Crater and a desert yurt overnight.

Ashgabat to Khiva via Darvaza | 3-Day Turkmenistan Tour

Ashgabat to Khiva via Darvaza Tour Overview

Ashgabat to Khiva via Darvaza – 3 Day Tour

Cross Turkmenistan from the Farap border to the Khiva gateway, visiting Ancient Merv, Mary, Ashgabat and the Darvaza Gas Crater.

Meet the local team at the Turkmenistan–Uzbekistan Farap–Alat border at approximately 09:00 and begin the journey toward Ancient Merv, around 255 km away. Explore the archaeological remains of one of the great historical centers of the Silk Road, including Greater and Lesser Kyz Gala, the Askhabs Complex, Erk Gala, Gyaur Gala, Hoja Yusup Hamadani Complex, Sultan Sanjar Mausoleum and Muhamed Ibn Zeid Mausoleum. After sightseeing, continue approximately 35 km to Mary. See the main city landmarks and, if time permits, visit Mary Bazaar and the Russian Orthodox church. Overnight at the hotel in Mary.

Farap Border – Ancient Merv – Mary

After breakfast, drive approximately 360 km from Mary to Ashgabat. On arrival, visit a horse stable to see the Akhalteke horse, one of the best-known symbols of Turkmen culture and heritage. Later, explore Ashgabat and its distinctive white-marble architecture. The sightseeing program includes the Wedding Palace, Yyldyz Hotel, Ferris Wheel, Constitution Monument, Arch of Neutrality, Independence Monument and Park, Ertogrul Gazy Mosque, and the city’s modern sports and residential complexes. Overnight at the hotel in Ashgabat.

Mary – Ashgabat – Akhalteke Horses and City Tour

After breakfast, visit Altyn Asyr Oriental Bazaar when it is open on Wednesday, Thursday, Saturday or Sunday. The market is known for carpets, textiles, jewelry, traditional clothing and other local products. When Altyn Asyr Bazaar is closed, visit Gulistan Bazaar in central Ashgabat instead, with its food stalls, spices, dried fruits, clothing and souvenir shops. In the afternoon, drive approximately 276 km across the Karakum Desert to Darvaza Gas Crater. In the evening, enjoy the dramatic view of the burning crater after sunset. Barbecue dinner and overnight at the desert camp in a yurt or tent.

Enjoy a picnic-style breakfast at the desert camp. After breakfast, drive approximately 309 km north toward the Dashoguz region and the Turkmenistan–Uzbekistan border checkpoint at Shavat. Complete the Turkmenistan-side departure formalities and cross into Uzbekistan. Belet Travel services conclude at the border, from where travelers can continue onward toward Khiva with their separately arranged Uzbekistan-side transfer.

Darvaza – Dashoguz Region – Shavat Border / Khiva Gateway

Farap / Alat Border → Ancient Merv → Mary → Ashgabat → Darvaza Gas Crater → Shavat Border / Khiva Gateway

Farap to Khiva Gateway via Merv, Ashgabat & Darvaza – 4 Days Tour Route Map

Travel across Turkmenistan in 4 days from Farap to the Shavat border, visiting Ancient Merv, Mary, Ashgabat, Akhalteke horses and Darvaza Gas Crater.

Farap to Khiva via Merv, Ashgabat & Darvaza | 4-Day Turkmenistan Tour

Farap to Khiva Gateway Tour Overview

Farap to Khiva Gateway via Merv, Ashgabat & Darvaza – 4 Days

Travel from the Shavat border through the Karakum Desert and Darvaza Gas Crater to Ashgabat on a compact 3-day private tour.

Meet the local team at the Turkmenistan–Uzbekistan border at Shavat at approximately 09:00. After completing border formalities, continue through Dashoguz and drive toward the Darvaza Gas Crater, approximately 296 km away. The journey crosses the Karakum Desert, where road conditions can make travel times longer than expected. In the evening, arrive at Darvaza and enjoy the dramatic view of the burning crater after sunset. Barbecue dinner is served at the camp. Overnight in a traditional Turkmen yurt or private tent near the crater.

Shavat Border – Dashoguz – Darvaza Gas Crater

Enjoy a picnic-style breakfast at the desert camp before driving to Ashgabat, approximately four hours away. In the afternoon, begin a sightseeing tour of Turkmenistan’s capital, famous for its striking white-marble architecture and broad ceremonial avenues. See major landmarks including the Ashgabat Olympic Stadium, Independence Monument and Park, the main flagpole, Arch of Neutrality, Constitution Monument, Ferris Wheel, Wedding Palace, Halk Hakydasy Memorial Complex, Alabay Monument and Ertogrul Gazy Mosque. Enjoy panoramic views of Ashgabat from one of the city’s elevated viewpoints. Overnight at the hotel in Ashgabat.

Darvaza – Ashgabat City Tour

Breakfast at the hotel. At the appropriate time, transfer to Ashgabat International Airport for your onward flight. This concludes the Khiva Gateway to Ashgabat via Darvaza tour.

Shavat Border / Khiva Gateway → Dashoguz → Darvaza Gas Crater → Ashgabat

Khiva Gateway to Ashgabat via Darvaza – 3 Days Tour Route Map

Travel from the Shavat border to Ashgabat on a 3-day private Turkmenistan tour featuring Dashoguz, Darvaza Gas Crater, a desert overnight and Ashgabat sightseeing.

Khiva Gateway to Ashgabat via Darvaza | 3-Day Turkmenistan Tour

Khiva Gateway to Ashgabat via Darvaza Tour Overview

Khiva Gateway to Ashgabat via Darvaza – 3 Days

Follow Uzbekistan’s classic Silk Road route through Tashkent, Khiva, Bukhara and Samarkand.

Arrive in Tashkent and meet your driver at the airport. Transfer to the hotel and check in according to hotel policy. The rest of the day is free to relax after your flight, take a short walk nearby or prepare for the start of your Uzbekistan Silk Road journey.

Arrival in Tashkent

Begin your guided tour of Tashkent, a capital where old neighborhoods, Soviet-era avenues and modern public spaces come together. Visit key city highlights such as the Courage Monument, the Old City area, Khast-Imam surroundings, Chorsu Bazaar, selected Tashkent Metro stations, the Museum of Applied Arts, Alisher Navoi Theatre exterior and Amir Timur Square. In the evening, transfer to the domestic airport for the flight to Urgench. Upon arrival, continue by road to Khiva and check in at the hotel.

Tashkent City Tour – Flight to Urgench – Khiva

Spend the day exploring Khiva’s Ichan-Kala, a compact walled city and one of Uzbekistan’s most atmospheric Silk Road sites. Walk through narrow lanes lined with madrasahs, mosques, minarets and palace courtyards. Sightseeing may include Kunya-Ark, Juma Mosque, Kalta-Minor Minaret, Tash-Khovli Palace, Pakhlavan Makhmud Mausoleum and Islam Khodja Minaret. Later, transfer to Urgench for the onward flight to Bukhara, or travel by train or road if flight schedules require a change.

Khiva Old City Tour – Flight or Transfer to Bukhara

Discover Bukhara on a guided walking tour through the old city, where many monuments are located close to one another. Visit Lyabi-Hauz Ensemble, Magoki-Attori Mosque, Chor-Minor, the traditional trading domes, Kalyan Minaret, Kalyan Mosque, Miri-Arab Madrasah, Ulugbek and Abdulazizkhan madrasahs, Ark Fortress, Bolo-Khauz Mosque, Ismail Samani Mausoleum and Chashma-Ayub. In the evening, enjoy local atmosphere in the old town, with an optional cultural show or dinner depending on the final program.

Bukhara Walking Tour

Continue sightseeing around Bukhara with visits that may include Sitorai Mokhi-Khosa, the former summer residence of the last emir of Bukhara, the Bakhouddin Naqshbandi memorial complex and the Fayzulla Khodjaev House Museum. In the afternoon, depart for Samarkand by road. On arrival, check in at the hotel and rest after the journey.

Bukhara Surroundings – Drive to Samarkand

Explore Samarkand, one of the greatest cities of the Silk Road and a symbol of Timurid architecture. Visit Registan Square, Gur Emir Mausoleum, Bibi Khanum Mosque, Siab Bazaar and Ulugbek Observatory. The afternoon may include free time to enjoy the city at your own pace, return to a favorite monument or relax at a local café.

Samarkand City Tour

Continue your Samarkand discovery with Shakhi-Zinda Necropolis, Afrasiab Museum and the Tomb of Saint Daniel. Later, visit Konigil village to learn about traditional Samarkand paper-making from mulberry bark. After lunch or free time, transfer to the railway station and take the train back to Tashkent. Upon arrival, transfer to the hotel.

Samarkand Sightseeing – Train to Tashkent

Check out from the hotel and transfer to Tashkent International Airport according to your flight schedule. This concludes your Uzbekistan Silk Road Classic tour through Tashkent, Khiva, Bukhara and Samarkand.

Departure from Tashkent

Tashkent → Urgench → Khiva → Urgench → Bukhara → Samarkand → Konigil Village → Tashkent

Uzbekistan Silk Road Classic Route Map

Explore Uzbekistan’s classic Silk Road route in 8 days, including Tashkent, Khiva, Bukhara and Samarkand with guided city tours, historic monuments, bazaars, domestic transport and train travel.

Uzbekistan Silk Road Classic | 8-Day Uzbekistan Tour

Uzbekistan Silk Road Classic Overview

Uzbekistan Silk Road Classic

Combine Turkmenistan’s desert landscapes and ancient cities with Uzbekistan’s great Silk Road highlights.

Arrive at Ashgabat International Airport, where your local team will meet you and transfer you to the hotel. Check-in follows the hotel’s standard timing, with free time to rest after the flight or take a first independent look at the city. Overnight in Ashgabat.

Arrival in Ashgabat, Turkmenistan

After breakfast, travel east toward Mary, passing historical sites connected with the old Silk Road. Continue to Ancient Merv, one of the region’s great archaeological landscapes and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Explore key monuments such as Sultan Sanjar Mausoleum, Kyz Kala, Erk Kala, Gyaur Kala and religious complexes linked to the city’s long history. Later, transfer to Mary Airport for the return flight to Ashgabat and overnight at the hotel.

Ashgabat – Mary – Ancient Merv – Ashgabat

Begin with a guided introduction to Ashgabat, a capital known for its wide avenues, monumental architecture and white-marble buildings. Visit Old Nisa, the ancient Parthian fortress area listed by UNESCO, and continue to selected city landmarks such as major mosques, museums, monuments, parks or local market areas depending on schedule. If possible, stop at an Akhalteke horse stable to see Turkmenistan’s famous horse breed. In the afternoon, drive into the Karakum Desert toward Darvaza Gas Crater. Enjoy dinner near the glowing crater and overnight in a simple yurt camp.

Ashgabat City Tour – Old Nisa – Darvaza Gas Crater

Wake up in the desert and have a simple camp-style breakfast. Drive north across the Karakum Desert toward the Dashoguz area and continue to the Turkmenistan–Uzbekistan border crossing. After completing exit and entry procedures, meet the Uzbek team on the other side and continue to Khiva. Check in at the hotel and enjoy free time near the old city walls.

Darvaza – Dashoguz/Shavat Border – Khiva, Uzbekistan

Spend the day exploring Khiva’s Ichan-Kala, a compact UNESCO-listed walled city filled with madrasahs, minarets, palaces and narrow lanes. Highlights may include Juma Mosque, Tosh-Khovli Palace, Pakhlavan Makhmud Mausoleum, Islam Khodja Minaret and other monuments inside the old town. Later, transfer to Urgench for the onward journey to Bukhara by domestic flight or alternative transport depending on availability. Upon arrival, transfer to the hotel.

Khiva City Tour – Urgench – Bukhara

Begin a full walking tour through Bukhara’s old city, one of the most atmospheric urban centers of the Silk Road. Visit Lyabi-Hauz, Magoki-Attori Mosque, Chor-Minor, the trading domes, Kalyan Minaret and Mosque, Miri-Arab Madrasah, Ulugbek and Abdulazizkhan madrasahs, Ark Fortress, Bolo-Khauz Mosque, Ismail Samani Mausoleum and Chashma-Ayub. In the evening, a cultural dinner or folklore show may be included depending on the final program.

Bukhara Old City Walking Tour

Continue sightseeing around Bukhara with visits outside the old city, such as Sitorai Mokhi-Khosa, the summer residence of the last Emir of Bukhara, the Bakhouddin Naqshbandi memorial complex and Chor-Bakr Necropolis. In the afternoon, depart for Samarkand by road. Arrive in Samarkand, check in at the hotel and rest after the transfer.

Bukhara Surroundings – Samarkand

Discover Samarkand, one of the most celebrated cities of the Silk Road. Visit Registan Square, Gur Emir Mausoleum, the remains of Bibi Khanum Mosque, Siyob Bazaar and Ulugbek Observatory. The sightseeing introduces the city’s Timurid architecture, blue-tiled monuments and important role in regional trade and scholarship. Free time may be available later in the day.

Continue the Samarkand program with Shakhi-Zinda Necropolis, Afrasiab Museum and the Tomb of Saint Daniel, then visit Konigil village to learn about traditional paper-making from mulberry bark. After lunch or free time, transfer to the railway station for the train to Tashkent. Arrive in the capital and transfer to the hotel for overnight.

Samarkand – Konigil Village – Tashkent

Explore Tashkent, Central Asia’s largest city and a mix of old neighborhoods, Soviet-era avenues and modern public spaces. Visit the Old City area, Khast-Imam surroundings, Chorsu Bazaar, selected metro stations, the Museum of Applied Arts, the exterior of Alisher Navoi Opera and Ballet Theatre and Amir Timur Square. Enjoy free time in the afternoon.

Tashkent City Tour

Check out from the hotel by noon unless late check-out has been arranged. Transfer to Tashkent International Airport for your departure flight. This concludes the Uzbekistan & Turkmenistan Tour.

Ashgabat → Mary → Ancient Merv → Ashgabat → Old Nisa → Darvaza Gas Crater → Dashoguz → Dashoguz/Shavat Border → Khiva → Urgench → Bukhara → Samarkand → Konigil Village → Tashkent

Uzbekistan & Turkmenistan Tour Route Map

Explore Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan on an 11-day journey from Ashgabat, Merv and Darvaza Gas Crater to Khiva, Bukhara, Samarkand and Tashkent, combining desert scenery, UNESCO sites and Silk Road cities.

Uzbekistan & Turkmenistan Tour | 11-Day Silk Road and Darvaza Journey

Uzbekistan & Turkmenistan Tour Overview

Uzbekistan & Turkmenistan Tour

Explore South Kazakhstan’s canyons, mountain lakes, national parks and dramatic natural landscapes.

Arrive at Almaty International Airport, where you will be met and transferred to your hotel. After check-in, the rest of the day is free to relax after your flight or take a first independent walk around the city. In the evening, you may enjoy dinner at a local restaurant depending on arrival time.

Arrival in Almaty

Begin your introduction to Almaty with the city’s main cultural and historical landmarks. Visit Panfilov Park, Zenkov Cathedral, the World War II memorial area with the eternal flame, the Central Mosque, Republic Square and the Green Bazaar, where local products and souvenirs create a lively atmosphere. Later, continue to Kok-Tobe Hill by cable car for panoramic views over Almaty and the surrounding mountains.

Almaty City Sightseeing

Leave Almaty and travel toward Tamgaly-Tas, a riverside rock-art site on the Ili River known for carved Buddhist images and inscriptions. After time to explore the area and enjoy the landscape, continue toward Baschi village and Altyn-Emel National Park. In the afternoon, visit the Singing Dune, one of the park’s most famous natural landmarks, set between the Big and Small Kalkan Mountains. Overnight in or near the national park area.

Almaty – Tamgaly-Tas – Altyn-Emel

Spend the day exploring the unusual landscapes of Altyn-Emel National Park. Visit the Katutau Mountains, shaped by volcanic activity, wind and erosion, then continue to the colorful Aktau Mountains, where layers of white, yellow, red and pink rock create one of Kazakhstan’s most photogenic natural areas. Return to your accommodation later in the day.

Altyn-Emel National Park: Aktau and Katutau Mountains

After breakfast, depart Altyn-Emel and drive toward Charyn Canyon. On the way, stop near the old ash-tree grove by the Temerlik River when route conditions allow. Continue to the canyon and walk through the famous Valley of Castles, where towers of red rock rise from the canyon floor and form one of Kazakhstan’s most impressive natural sights. Later, continue to Saty village for dinner and overnight in a local guesthouse.

Altyn-Emel – Charyn Canyon – Saty Village

Today is dedicated to the mountain lakes of the Northern Tian Shan. Visit Kolsay Lake, often described as one of the region’s most beautiful alpine lake systems, and enjoy time for a short walk near the first lake. After lunch, continue by local off-road vehicle toward Kaindy Lake, famous for its submerged spruce trees rising from the water. Return to Saty village for dinner and overnight.

Kolsay Lake and Kaindy Lake

Drive back toward Almaty through mountain and foothill scenery. En route, visit the Issyk area, including the museum connected with the famous Golden Man archaeological discovery, then continue to Issyk Lake and, if timing and conditions allow, the Turgen waterfall area. After time for photos and a picnic-style break near the lake, return to Almaty and check in at the hotel.

Saty Village – Issyk Lake – Almaty

Travel outside the city to the Huns Ethno Village, a cultural complex that introduces Kazakh nomadic traditions in a scenic mountain setting. The visit may include a welcome ritual, yurt presentation, felt craft demonstration, traditional music and dances, family rituals, horse games and a baursak cooking master class. Enjoy lunch in a national-style setting before returning to Almaty in the afternoon.

Almaty – Huns Ethno Village – Almaty

After breakfast, check out from the hotel according to your flight schedule. Transfer to Almaty International Airport for departure. This concludes your Kazakhstan Nature Highlights tour.

Departure from Almaty

Almaty → Tamgaly-Tas → Baschi Village → Singing Dune → Katutau Mountains → Aktau Mountains → Charyn Canyon → Saty Village → Kolsay Lake → Kaindy Lake → Saty Village → Issyk Lake → Turgen Gorge → Almaty → Huns Ethno Village → Almaty

Kazakhstan Nature Highlights Route Map

Discover South Kazakhstan on a 9-day nature tour from Almaty to Altyn-Emel National Park, Aktau and Katutau Mountains, Charyn Canyon, Kolsay and Kaindy Lakes, Issyk Lake and a Kazakh ethno village.

Kazakhstan Nature Highlights | 9-Day South Kazakhstan Tour

Kazakhstan Nature Highlights Overview

Kazakhstan Nature Highlights

Experience Kyrgyzstan’s alpine lakes, mountain valleys, nomad culture and scenic adventure routes.

Arrive at Manas International Airport and meet your local team for the transfer to Bishkek. After hotel check-in, begin a short introduction to the capital with places such as Ala-Too Square, the Opera and Ballet Theatre, the Fine Arts Museum, the National Library and nearby central landmarks. Overnight in Bishkek. Meals: no meals.

Arrival in Bishkek

After breakfast, drive to Ala Archa Nature Park, a beautiful mountain area located close to Bishkek. Spend time walking or hiking in the gorge and enjoy a packed lunch or outdoor barbecue-style meal. Later, weather permitting, continue to the paragliding area near Ala Archa for briefing, preparation and a tandem flight with a pilot. Return to Bishkek for dinner and overnight at the hotel. Meals: breakfast, lunch box.

Bishkek – Ala Archa Nature Park – Paragliding Activity

Leave Bishkek and drive toward Shamshy Gorge. On the way, visit Burana Tower, a 10th-century minaret connected with the ancient Silk Road settlement of Balasagun. Continue into the mountain area, where lunch is served in a yurt-style setting. In the afternoon, enjoy horse riding surrounded by mountain scenery and fir-tree forests. Dinner and overnight at a mountain guest house. Meals: full board.

Bishkek – Burana Tower – Shamshy Gorge – Horse Riding

After breakfast, drive toward the Boom Gorge area for a rafting activity on the river, with instruction and equipment provided by the local team. In the afternoon, continue along the northern shore of Issyk-Kul Lake toward Cholpon-Ata. Visit the Ruh Ordo Cultural Complex and the open-air petroglyph museum, then enjoy time near the lake shore. Overnight at a guest house. Meals: breakfast.

Shamshy Gorge – Boom Gorge Rafting – Issyk-Kul Lake

Travel along the Issyk-Kul region toward Jety-Oguz Gorge, known for its dramatic red rock formations and mountain landscapes. Depending on local conditions, visit Grigorievskoe and Semenovskoe gorges, where nomad-style villages and horse games may be arranged. Continue to Karakol for sightseeing, including the Przhevalsky Museum, Dungan Mosque and Holy Trinity Cathedral. Later, arrive in Jety-Oguz for dinner and overnight in a yurt camp. Meals: breakfast, dinner.

Issyk-Kul Lake – Karakol – Jety-Oguz Gorge

Start the day with breakfast and a mountain walk toward waterfalls hidden in the Jety-Oguz area. Then drive back toward Bishkek along the southern shore of Issyk-Kul Lake. On the way, visit Skazka Gorge, famous for its colorful rock formations, and stop at a yurt maker’s workshop to learn how the traditional Kyrgyz yurt is made from wood and felt. Enjoy lunch with a local family before continuing to Bishkek. Dinner in the city. Meals: breakfast, lunch.

Jety-Oguz Gorge – Skazka Gorge – Yurt Workshop – Bishkek

Transfer to Manas International Airport for your departure flight. A packed breakfast can be arranged for early departures. This concludes your Kyrgyzstan Mountain & Lake Tour.

Bishkek Departure

Bishkek → Ala-Archa National Park → Bishkek → Burana Tower → Shamshy Gorge → Boom Gorge → Cholpon-Ata → Grigorievskoe Gorge → Semenovskoe Gorge → Karakol → Jety-Oguz Gorge → Skazka Canyon → Bishkek

Kyrgyzstan Mountain & Lake Tour Route Map

Explore Kyrgyzstan on a 7-day mountain and lake tour featuring Bishkek, Ala Archa, Burana Tower, Shamshy Gorge, Issyk-Kul Lake, Karakol, Jety-Oguz, Skazka Gorge, horse riding, rafting, paragliding and nomad culture.

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