Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan
Private
13 days from £9,500
Private Tour
Almaty to Tashkent – 13 Days
Journey through the heart of Central Asia on this immersive 13-day tour exploring the Silk Road legacy across Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan. Begin in Almaty, where leafy boulevards meet the dramatic peaks of the Tian Shan Mountains and gaze upon breathtaking scenery, from snow-capped mountains to vast desert regions. Discover petroglyphs, canyons, and glacial lakes before heading south to Shymkent and the ancient pilgrimage city of Turkestan. The Silk Road adventure begins as you step into the footsteps of nomads, traders, and conquerors who once passed through these crossroads of culture and commerce.
In Uzbekistan, delve into the architectural wonders of Bukhara and Samarkand, from mosaic-covered mosques to bustling bazaars. Experience the rich history of this ancient trade route as you wander through Tashkent’s Old Town, explore pottery villages and museums, and taste the rich cuisine shaped by centuries of cultural exchange. With expert guides, heritage hotels, and meaningful encounters, this journey brings the Silk Road’s vibrant past to life through cities, monuments, and natural beauty.
SILK ROAD CITIES OF BUKHARA & SAMARKAND: Wander through Bukhara’s ancient fortresses and Samarkand’s breathtaking Registan Square. These UNESCO World Heritage sites are among the most remarkable ancient cities along the Silk Road, renowned for their historical sites, ancient ruins, and well-preserved walled cities. Explore the old city districts, where you can visit Registan Square and marvel at Samarkand’s stunning Islamic architecture, including tiled domes, grand madrassas, and royal tombs. These historic cities, once vital Silk Road hubs, offer a deep look into Central Asia’s cultural legacy through stunning architecture, vibrant markets, and centuries of layered Islamic and Timurid history.
ALMATY & THE TIAN SHAN MOUNTAINS: Explore the cultural highlights and charm of Almaty before venturing into the nearby Tian Shan Mountains. Discover turquoise Big Almaty Lake, hike through Charyn Canyon’s surreal landscapes, and learn about nomadic traditions. This contrast of modern city life and untamed natural beauty offers a dynamic start to your Central Asian adventure.
UNESCO SITES & ANCIENT MONUMENTS: Visit the awe-inspiring Mausoleum of Khoja Ahmed Yasawi in Turkestan, the ancient city ruins of Otrar, and the Tamgaly petroglyphs. These UNESCO-listed sites reveal centuries of spiritual, political, and artistic achievement, reflecting the deep heritage of the Silk Road from Bronze Age art to Islamic architectural brilliance.
CULTURAL ENCOUNTERS & LOCAL TRADITIONS: Gain insight into everyday life through local interactions. Watch falconry demonstrations near Almaty, join a pottery workshop in Gijduvan, take a bread-making class in Samarkand, or embark on a walking tour for an immersive exploration of historic sites. These cultural experiences connect you with regional traditions, offering memorable moments beyond monuments and bringing the Silk Road’s living heritage to light.
The difference with the Asian Geographical is, that each of our holidays is designed with extreme precision of a mountaineering expedition.
Tailor-made
Light Moderate
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Follow the ancient Silk Road from Kazakhstan to Uzbekistan on a 13-day journey through mountain landscapes, UNESCO cities, and vibrant bazaars. Tour operators organize the journey, ensuring seamless logistics and expert support. Local guides provide authentic insights during city visits, including a city tour in Karakol to explore landmarks and connect with local culture. This immersive tour blends heritage and scenery for a rich, in-depth Central Asian travel experience.
Drive to Big Almaty Lake, hidden in the mountains of Ile-Alatau National Park. The lake’s calm, turquoise waters mirror the surrounding peaks, a peaceful escape from city life. Later visit a local falcon farm and bird sanctuary. Learn about the ancient Kazakh tradition of falconry, where skilled hunters trained eagles and hawks to assist in hunting. Watch a demonstration and meet the birds up close. This experience shows Kazakhstan’s connection to nature and nomadic culture in a stunning mountain setting.
Drive to Big Almaty Lake, hidden in the mountains of Ile-Alatau National Park. The lake’s calm, turquoise waters mirror the surrounding peaks, a peaceful escape from city life. Later visit a local falcon farm and bird sanctuary. Learn about the ancient Kazakh tradition of falconry, where skilled hunters trained eagles and hawks to assist in hunting. Watch a demonstration and meet the birds up close. This experience shows Kazakhstan’s connection to nature and nomadic culture in a stunning mountain setting.
Today is all about Almaty’s surroundings. Choose one of several options. Visit Charyn Canyon for a scenic walk through red rock formations. Alternatively visit the Tamgaly petroglyphs, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with ancient rock carvings. Tamgaly-Tas has Buddhist inscriptions along the Ili River. Or visit Turgen Gorge in Ile-Alatau National Park, known for waterfalls and wildlife. Your guide will tailor the day to your interests and pace.
Fly to Shymkent in southern Kazakhstan, where Central Asian cultures and trade routes once met. Check into your hotel and explore the city. Walk through tree-lined parks and sample street food in local markets. Visit regional museums or just relax. If time allows visit nearby Sayram, one of Central Asia’s oldest settlements, with Islamic architecture, historic mosques and mausoleums. Shymkent is a gentle introduction to the south, with local life and access to important cultural sites.
Spend the day in Turkestan, a former Silk Road city and major Islamic pilgrimage site. Visit the Mausoleum of Khoja Ahmed Yasawi, a grand UNESCO-listed complex covered in blue tiles. See its prayer halls, ancient mosques and the tomb of Rabigha-Sultan Begum. On the way stop in Otrar, once a thriving Silk Road city before its fall during the Mongol invasions. Visit the ruins and imagine the life that once was there. End the day with a walk in Aksu-Zhabagly Nature Reserve, hiking through a canyon filled with birds, wildflowers and mountain views.
Spend more time in Bukhara’s historical sites or opt for a half-day trip to Gijduvan. This town is famous for its pottery and you’ll visit artisan workshops where colourful ceramics are still handmade. Watch the glazing and firing process and browse unique pieces to take home. Alternatively stay in Bukhara and join a hands-on Uzbek cooking class where you’ll learn to make plov, samsa and other favourites. These experiences get you closer to everyday Uzbek life through food, crafts or conversations with local hosts.
Take the high-speed train to Samarkand, one of the Silk Road’s most famous cities. Start at the stunning Registan Square, surrounded by three beautiful madrassas. See the Bibi-Khanym Mosque, built for Timur’s queen and the nearby market full of sweets, spices and textiles. Visit Gur-e-Amir, Timur’s mausoleum with its deep blue dome. At Shah-i-Zinda explore the hillside avenue of decorated tombs. End the day at Ulugh Beg’s Observatory where medieval astronomers studied the stars. Samarkand is grand and historic.
More of Samarkand’s heritage. Return to Shah-i-Zinda to see more of the tilework and history. Visit the Afrosiab Museum to see Samarkand’s ancient history including a 7th-century fresco. In the evening watch a historical costume performance at El Merosi Theatre. Optional experiences include a visit to a local winery for an Uzbek wine tasting or join a bread-making session where you can bake traditional non bread in a clay oven with local women.
More of Samarkand’s heritage. Return to Shah-i-Zinda to see more of the tilework and history. Visit the Afrosiab Museum to see Samarkand’s ancient history including a 7th-century fresco. In the evening watch a historical costume performance at El Merosi Theatre. Optional experiences include a visit to a local winery for an Uzbek wine tasting or join a bread-making session where you can bake traditional non bread in a clay oven with local women.
Return to Tashkent by high-speed train for your last night. Visit any sights you may have missed, relax in one of the city’s cafes or shop for last minute souvenirs at the bazaars. You may want to explore Tashkent’s modern art scene or take a walk in the city’s parks. End of trip—Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan.
After breakfast you will be transferred to Tashkent International Airport for your onward journey.
Drawn to the Silk Road’s storied past, breathtaking environments, and the rich mosaic of cultures within Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan, this tour is a tribute to those fascinated by the symphony of nature, history, and cultural diversity. Along the way, travelers will explore the region's remarkable cultural heritage, including visits to some of Central Asia's oldest cities, where centuries of tradition and history come alive.
Designed for the explorer, the cultural aficionado, and the nature lover, it offers a deep dive into the heart of Central Asia, featuring everything from lively bazaars and tranquil landscapes to historic sites and contemporary urban scenes, encapsulating the spirit and diversity of the region in a journey through its most capan impressive collection of historic sites and artifacts.
The journey includes stops in major cities renowned for their cultural highlights, as well as opportunities to engage with local communities. Guests can experience authentic hospitality by dining with a local family, gaining unique insight into daily life and traditions, and participating in community-oriented activity highlights that enrich the overall experience.
Our expedition's flexible approach allows us to adapt to new opportunities and conditions. We offer a range of activities from easy to moderate, tailored to your preference. Participants should be fit for activities such as walks, treks, and visits to cultural sites, with options for more strenuous hikes. Our trips are suitable for families.
ACCOMMODATIONS: Our tours feature the finest accommodations in each destination, from charming boutique hotels to cosy lodges, ensuring a comfortable stay with authentic cuisine. We carefully choose each location for its alignment with our itinerary and the activities planned, prioritising comfort and local experience.
TRANSPORTATION: All transportation for your tour is meticulously planned according to the itinerary. For personal explorations beyond the scheduled activities, your Expedition Leader is ready to suggest the best transportation choices, ensuring your travel within the tour is seamless and tailored to your interests.
Prices are per person, based on double occupancy and do not include international airfare to/from your destination. All prices and fares are quoted in British pounds (GBP) and are subject to change. Please refer to the terms and conditions of this trip for further details.
The difference with the Asian Geographical is, that each of our holidays is designed with extreme precision of a mountaineering expedition.
The difference with the Asian Geographical is, that each of our holidays is designed with extreme precision of a mountaineering expedition.
Your entire holiday is designed around your personal preferences
Travel at your own pace with full itinerary flexibility
Choose from handpicked, luxury hotels & resorts across Asia
Enjoy seamless logistics, private transfers, and 24/7 assistance
Our package holiday team has decades of experience in luxury Asia travel
Receive first-hand advice from specialists who know each destination intimately
Gain access to hidden gems and authentic local experiences
Our aim is to stay committed to responsible travel in Asia
We partner with eco-conscious providers
Itineraries include experiences that preserve Asia’s cultural and natural heritage
Travel with complete confidence under full ATOL protection
Fully bonded and financially protected for your peace of mind
Established in 2014
