Central Asia Expedition

Bishkek

DISCOVER THE KYRGYZ CAPITAL: Your Central Asia adventure begins in Bishkek, the dynamic capital of Kyrgyzstan. Upon arrival, receive a warm welcome before transferring to your hotel for check-in and refreshment. Later, embark on a guided city tour led by a knowledgeable local expert. Explore Ala-Too Square, the heart of Bishkek, where statues of national heroes Kurmanzhan Datka, Manas, and Lenin stand. Stroll through the Old Square, home to the Parliament House and Fine Art Gallery, before concluding at Victory Square, a solemn tribute to WWII.

Meals Included: Dinner

Accommodations: Ambassador /Ramada /Damas (4 Star)

Chon-Kemin Valley

KYRGYZ CULTURE & NATURE: Begin the day with a scenic drive to Burana Tower, an ancient Silk Road relic near Tokmok and a UNESCO-listed site. Participate in optional horseback riding games and learn about the tower’s fascinating history. Enjoy a traditional Kyrgyz lunch with a local family, offering an authentic taste of the region’s warm hospitality. Continue to Chon Kemin Valley, where you’ll settle into the charming Ashuu Guest House. The afternoon is yours to explore Kalmak Ashuu village—try horseback riding, learn to set up a traditional yurt, or take a refreshing swim under the guidance of your expert tour leader.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodations: Ashuu Guest House

Chon-Kemin Valley

Karkara

After breakfast, set out for Karkara Valley, a high-altitude paradise known for its unspoiled beauty. En route, stop at Cholpon Ata’s open-air museum, home to ancient petroglyphs, including the largest rock engraving in Central Asia, depicting snow leopards and hunters. Upon arrival in Karkara, settle into your yurt glamping camp, where you can relax by the river or indulge in a traditional sauna under the starlit sky.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Accommodations: Yurt Glamping

Kolsay Lake

CROSS INTO KAZAKHSTAN: Bid farewell to Kyrgyzstan as you head to the Kegen Border Crossing, where your local guide will assist with formalities. Once in Kazakhstan, continue to Saty Village, the gateway to the Kolsay Lakes, often called the Pearls of the Tien Shan Mountains. Spend the day hiking around the pristine lakes, marvelling at the serene alpine scenery. The crystal-clear waters and lush surroundings make this a breathtaking highlight of your Central Asia Expedition.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Accommodations: Grand Kolsay /Saty Village Guest House

Almaty

CHARYN CANYON – KAZAKHSTAN’S NATURAL WONDER: Journey to Charyn Canyon, often compared to the Grand Canyon for its dramatic rock formations and breathtaking landscapes. Take a guided trek through the canyon, where millennia-old rock sculptures create a surreal backdrop for exploration. Continue to Almaty, Kazakhstan’s cultural capital, for a half-day city tour. Visit Republic Square, the Monument of Independence, and the iconic Zenkov Cathedral, before browsing local handicrafts and fresh produce at the lively Green Bazaar.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Accommodations: Kazzhol Park /Holiday Inn /Garden Park Inn (4 Star)

Almaty

Dushanbe

A JOURNEY TO TAJIKISTAN: Begin the day at Almaty’s Central State Historical Museum, offering a fascinating insight into Kazakhstan’s rich heritage. Later, board a flight to Dushanbe, the elegant capital of Tajikistan. Upon arrival, meet your Tajik guide and transfer to your hotel. In the evening, take a relaxed stroll through Dushanbe’s boulevards, admiring its grand architecture and peaceful atmosphere—a perfect way to unwind before continuing your Central Asia Expedition.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Accommodations: Rumi Hotel (4 Star)

Dushanbe

TAJIKISTAN’S RICH HERITAGE: Begin your exploration of Dushanbe, Tajikistan’s vibrant capital, with a visit to the Museum of Antiquities, home to remarkable artefacts, including the renowned Buddha of Ajina-Tepe. Next, admire the monument of Ismail Somoni, a tribute to the revered founder of the Tajik nation, before immersing yourself in the sights and sounds of the Mehrgon Bazaar. Later, venture beyond the city to Hissar Fortress, a 16th-century stronghold that once guarded Silk Road traders. Surrounded by historic madrassahs, this site offers a glimpse into Tajikistan’s rich heritage, making it a key highlight of your Central Asia adventure.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Accommodations: Rumi Hotel (4 Star)

Tashkent

DISCOVER UZBEKISTAN’S VIBRANT CAPITAL: Board a flight to Tashkent, Uzbekistan’s dynamic capital, where ancient traditions blend with modern architecture. Discover the city’s rich history with visits to the Khast Imam Complex, home to the revered Qur'an of Caliph Uthman, and the Kukeldash Madrasah, an impressive 16th-century landmark. Experience the bustling energy of Chorsu Bazaar, where traders sell fragrant spices, fresh produce, and colourful textiles. Then, explore the city’s contemporary side at Independence Square, the Museum of Applied Arts, and the impressive Amir Temur Square, dedicated to the legendary conqueror.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Accommodations: Crowne Plaza

Tashkent

Samarkand

BULLET TRAIN TO SAMARKAND: Begin your day with a high-speed bullet train ride to Samarkand, a city synonymous with the grandeur of the Silk Road. Upon arrival, embark on a guided tour of its awe-inspiring architecture. Visit the Gur-e-Amir Mausoleum, the final resting place of Tamerlane, whose architectural influence extended as far as India’s Taj Mahal. Stroll through the breathtaking Registan Square, a masterpiece of Islamic architecture, before admiring the Bibi Khanum Mosque, built in honour of Tamerlane’s wife. Conclude your day with a visit to Siab Bazaar, where you can sample Samarkand’s renowned sweets and dried fruits.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Accommodations: Savitsky Plaza

Samarkand

ARCHITECTURAL MARVELS: Spend another day uncovering Samarkand’s rich legacy. Begin at the Bibi Khanum Mosque, one of Central Asia’s most imposing religious structures. Return to Registan Square for an in-depth exploration of its three grand madrasahs, adorned with intricate tilework. Next, visit Shah-i-Zinda, a stunning necropolis famed for its brilliantly decorated tombs. Continue to Ulugh Beg’s Observatory, an extraordinary 15th-century site where pioneering astronomical discoveries were made. Your expert guide will share fascinating insights into Samarkand’s golden age of science and culture, enhancing your Central Asia Expedition.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Accommodations: Savitsky Plaza

Bukhara

BIRTHPLACE OF TAMERLANE: Travel to Shakhrisabz, the birthplace of Tamerlane, where his legacy is deeply ingrained in the city’s monuments. Explore the Ak-Saray Palace, once a dazzling display of his imperial ambitions, and admire the Kuk Gumbaz Mosque and the Mausoleum of Jahangir, dedicated to his eldest son. Wander through the lively Shakhrisabz Bazaar, where traders have gathered for centuries, before visiting the Mausoleum of Amir Timur, a poignant yet unoccupied tribute to the great ruler. Later, continue to Bukhara, one of the best-preserved Silk Road cities.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Accommodations: Wyndham Bukhara

Bukhara

Bukhara

THE SILK ROAD HISTORY: Step into the ancient heart of Bukhara, a city brimming with history. Explore the Kalon Minaret, a towering 12th-century masterpiece that once amazed Genghis Khan. Wander around the Lyabi Hauz Ensemble, a tranquil square surrounded by centuries-old madrasahs. Marvel at the unique Chor Minor Mosque, distinguished by its four turquoise domes, and visit the Ismail Somoni Mausoleum, the revered tomb of a 9th-century Samanid ruler. Conclude your day at The Ark, a vast fortress-palace that once served as the seat of Bukhara’s rulers.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Accommodations: Wyndham Bukhara

Khiva

A STEP BACK IN TIME: Set off on a scenic drive across the Kyzylkum Desert, following the ancient Silk Road caravan routes towards Khiva. Arriving in the late afternoon, settle into your hotel before taking an evening stroll through Ichan Kala, the enchanting walled old town. Khiva’s well-preserved architecture transports you back to the days of the Silk Road, making it a perfect stop in your Central Asia Expedition. Enjoy the atmospheric streets, where the setting sun casts golden hues over minarets and fortress walls.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Accommodations: Asia Khiva

Khiva

AN OPEN-AIR MUSEUM EXPERIENCE: Step into Khiva, a perfectly preserved UNESCO-listed city, where history unfolds within its ancient mudbrick walls. Join your expert guide for a walking tour through the labyrinthine streets of Ichan Kala, the old walled town that once thrived with Silk Road traders. Marvel at the Kalta Minor Minaret, an unfinished yet stunning turquoise-tiled tower, before visiting the soaring Islam Khoja Minaret. Explore the Tash Khauli Palace, a masterpiece of Uzbek craftsmanship, featuring intricate courtyards and lavishly decorated chambers. Wander past beautifully preserved mosques, madrasahs, and caravanserais, each offering a glimpse into Khiva’s rich history.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Accommodations: Asia Khiva

Khiva

Ashgabat

Cross the Shavat border into Turkmenistan, where your local guide will assist with entry formalities. Begin your exploration in Dashoguz, a city brimming with Turkmen culture. Visit the Juma Mosque, known for its distinctive architecture, and explore the local bazaar, where traders sell textiles, spices, and handcrafted goods. Then, stop by a private art gallery, showcasing contemporary Turkmen artists and their interpretations of the country’s heritage. Later, board a flight to Ashgabat, Turkmenistan’s dazzling capital, renowned for its opulent white marble architecture. Upon arrival, enjoy a delicious local dinner, experiencing Turkmen cuisine at its finest.

Accommodations: Sport Hotel

Ashgabat

THE CITY OF WHITE MARBLE: Discover Ashgabat, where modern luxury meets ancient history. Start at Ancient Nissa, a Parthian fortress with stunning views and rich history. Visit the Turkmenbashi Mosque Mausoleum, blending Islamic architecture with modern design. Explore the Neutrality Arch, Independence Park, and the National Museum, showcasing relics from the Parthian and Persian empires. In the afternoon, head to an Akhal-Teke horse stable to observe or ride these prized Turkmen horses. End your tour at the Earthquake Memorial, the Ertogrul Ghazi Mosque, and the Gulistan Bazaar, where artisans sell handwoven carpets, silk scarves, and traditional crafts.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodations: Sport Hotel

Ashgabat

Ashgabat

FAREWELL TO CENTRAL ASIA: After an unforgettable journey across Kyrgyzstan, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, and Turkmenistan, it’s time to bid farewell to your Central Asia adventure. Transfer to Ashgabat International Airport for your onward flight, carrying with you incredible memories of the Silk Road’s legendary landscapes, cultures, and histories.

Meals Included: Breakfast