Discover the Magic of the Five Stans of Central Asia 15 Days / 14 Nights
Embark on a journey through the timeless Silk Road heritage, breathtaking landscapes, and living traditions of Central Asia. From the marble-white grandeur of Turkmenistan and the ancient cities of Uzbekistan, to the alpine beauty of Kyrgyzstan, the vast steppes of Kazakhstan, and the cultural richness of Tajikistan, each destination reveals a unique world of history, hospitality, and natural wonder. This is more than a tour — it is a voyage across civilizations where East meets West, and every stop tells a story of empires, explorers, and unforgettable beauty.
Ashgabat, arrival.
Arrive in Ashgabat early in the morning, where you will be met at the airport and transferred to your hotel for check-in and rest. Begin the tour with visits to the Magtymguly Monument, the futuristic Neutrality Arch, and the Independence Monument. Then drive to the Darvaza Gas Crater, with lunch served en route in a local nomadic village. After lunch, continue on an exciting journey through the Karakum Desert to one of Central Asia’s most extraordinary sights — the Darvaza Gas Crater, famously known as the “Door to Hell.” Arrive before sunset to watch the fiery crater glow as darkness falls. Enjoy a traditional barbecue dinner under the desert sky, with unforgettable views and excellent photo opportunities of the blazing flames. Return to the hotel in the evening. Overnight at the hotel in Ashgabat.
Ashgabat
Start your city exploration with a guided tour through the highlights of Ashgabat, beginning at the elegant Ertogrul Gazi Mosque, one of the city’s most beautiful and peaceful landmarks. Continue to historic Lenin Square, a reminder of the city’s Soviet-era heritage, before immersing yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Gulistan Bazaar, where local life, colors, and aromas come together in a lively traditional market. Proceed to the meaningful Memorial Complex, dedicated to national history and remembrance, offering deeper insight into the country’s past and identity. In the evening, enjoy a memorable dinner at Lacasa Restaurant, featuring a beautiful view of the illuminated mosque — a perfect blend of modern comfort and spiritual ambiance. After dinner, return to your hotel for an overnight stay.
Ashgabat - Mary by road.
Upon arrival in Mary, first stop for photos at the Gurbanguly Hajy Mosque, the Library, and the theatre named after Mämmetweli Kemine. Then continue to the ancient oasis city of Merv, once one of the great centers of the Silk Road and now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Explore its impressive ruins and discover the fascinating history of this remarkable city. Later, continue by road to the Farap land border with Uzbekistan. After completing border formalities, meet your Uzbek guide and driver and transfer onward to the legendary city of Bukhara.
Bukhara City Tour
After breakfast, begin a guided sightseeing tour of Bukhara, one of the most atmospheric and best-preserved Silk Road cities. Start with the elegant Ismail Samani Mausoleum, a masterpiece of early Islamic architecture, followed by the unique Chashma Ayub Mausoleum and the graceful Bolo-Khauz Mosque. Continue to the mighty Ark of Bukhara, once the royal residence of Bukhara’s emirs, and proceed to the iconic Po-i-Kalyan Complex with its towering minaret dominating the old city skyline. Visit the beautifully decorated Ulugbek Madrasah and Abdulaziz Khan Madrasah. After lunch, enjoy a relaxed walk through the historic Lyab-i Hauz Ensemble, surrounded by ancient madrasahs and shaded courtyards. Continue to the bustling domed bazaars, where traders have sold silk, spices, and crafts for centuries. In the evening, enjoy dinner with a local family and taste traditional Uzbek plov.
Bukhara – Samarkand
After breakfast, continue exploring the surroundings of Bukhara. Visit the elegant Sitorai Mokhi Khosa Palace, the former summer residence of the last Emir, showcasing a blend of Oriental and European design. Then proceed to the spiritual Bahauddin Naqshband Complex, one of the most important pilgrimage sites in the region. After lunch, depart for Samarkand, the jewel of the Silk Road and once the capital of Tamerlane’s empire. Upon arrival, check into your hotel and enjoy an evening walk at the magnificent Registan Square, beautifully illuminated at night. Overnight in Samarkand. Meals: Breakfast.
Samarkand | Silk Road Heritage
Today is dedicated to exploring the timeless beauty of Samarkand. Begin at the world-famous Registan Square, surrounded by its three grand madrasahs. Continue to the majestic Gur-e-Amir Mausoleum, the resting place of Tamerlane. After lunch, visit the grand Bibi-Khanym Mosque, one of the largest mosques of its time, followed by the sacred necropolis of Shah-i-Zinda, renowned for its stunning tilework. End the day at the ancient Ulugbek Observatory, a symbol of medieval scientific achievement. Overnight in Samarkand. Meals: Breakfast.
Samarkand – Panjakent & Fann Mountains
After an early breakfast, cross into Tajikistan for a full-day excursion. Visit the ancient site of Sarazm, a UNESCO World Heritage settlement dating back more than 5,500 years, and explore the Rudaki Museum and the local bazaar in Panjakent. Continue into the breathtaking Fann Mountains to discover the famous Seven Lakes, a chain of alpine lakes renowned for their changing colors and dramatic scenery. Enjoy lunch with a local family near one of the lakes before returning to Samarkand. Overnight in Samarkand. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch.
Samarkand – Tashkent
Morning transfer to the railway station and a scenic train journey to Tashkent. Upon arrival, enjoy a light walking tour of Uzbekistan’s modern capital, where Soviet-era architecture blends with traditional neighborhoods and lively bazaars. Overnight in Tashkent. Meals: Breakfast.
Tashkent – Bishkek
Begin the day with sightseeing in Tashkent, including Minor Mosque, Independence Square, and Amir Timur Square. After lunch, fly to Bishkek, the relaxed capital of Kyrgyzstan surrounded by the Tian Shan mountains. Upon arrival, transfer to the hotel for check-in. Overnight in Bishkek. Meals: Breakfast.
Bishkek & Ala-Archa National Park
Morning excursion to Ala-Archa National Park for fresh mountain air and a light hike through beautiful alpine landscapes. Return to Bishkek for a city tour, including Ala-Too Square, the Freedom Monument, the Lenin Statue, and the Manas Monument. Overnight in Bishkek. Meals: Breakfast.
Bishkek – Burana Tower – Issyk-Kul Lake
Travel towards Issyk-Kul Lake, stopping at the ancient city of Balasagyn and the Burana Tower, a remarkable relic of the Silk Road. Continue through scenic mountain landscapes to reach Issyk-Kul Lake. Overnight at Issyk-Kul. Meals: Breakfast.
Issyk-Kul – Karakol & Jeti-Oguz Gorge
Drive along the shores of Issyk-Kul Lake toward Karakol, stopping to visit the ancient petroglyphs in Cholpon-Ata and the Przhevalsky Museum. Explore Karakol’s cultural highlights, including the unique Dungan Mosque and the beautiful Orthodox Cathedral. Then continue to Jeti-Oguz Gorge, famous for its striking red rock formations and scenic mountain landscapes. Overnight in Karakol. Meals: Breakfast.
Karakol – Charyn Canyon – Almaty
Cross into Kazakhstan and visit the spectacular Charyn Canyon, often called the “Grand Canyon of Central Asia.” Continue to Almaty for an overnight stay. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch.
Almaty | City & Mountains
Explore Almaty’s highlights, including Panfilov Park, Zenkov Cathedral, and Kok-Tobe Hill. Continue to the Medeu skating rink and Shymbulak ski resort, where breathtaking mountain scenery awaits. Overnight in Almaty. Meals: Breakfast.
Almaty | Departure
Transfer to Almaty International Airport for your departure flight. Meals: Breakfast.
- INCLUDED AND NOT
- Registration fee and tourist tax
- Hotel acommondation
- Guide
- Transport
- Transfers
- Entry tickets
- Daily 1.5 lt water
- Visa fee
- Insurance
