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Central Asia: Five Stans Express

Central Asia: Five Stans Express

From $ 9,495 AUD

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Description

To see all five Stans in Central Asia, this epic trip will start in the grand Ashgabat of Turkmenistan, explore Samarkand in Uzbekistan, then head to Tajikistan, Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan. See the best of the Silk Road and deep dive into the fascinating history, captivating landscapes and beautiful culture that’s intertwined throughout this region. You’ll stay in yurts near Lake Issyk-Kul, explore Registan Square in Samarkand and watch the eternal flame of Darvaza Crater – a 70-m-wide hole in the Karakum Desert known as ‘The Gates of Hell’. From wide open plains full of wild horses to homestays and dinners with locals, there’s so much to see, do and learn in this region – so why not spend 24 days uncovering all you can, with a local leader by your side?

Trip Name
Central Asia: Five Stans Express
Last Updated
1970-01-01
Days
24
Capacity
12
Overview
Visit all five Stans in Central Asia on this unforgettable 24-day trip. Start in the white marble capital of Ashgabat in Turkmenistan, then explore the Silk Road history, varied landscapes and local culture of Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan. Stay in yurts near Issyk-Kul Lake, explore Registan Square in Samarkand and watch the eternal flame of Darvaza Crater – a 70-m-wide hole in the Karakum Desert known as the ‘Gates of Hell’. Between wide open plains full of wild horses, homestays and dinners with locals, there’s so much to see, do and learn in this region – and you’ll experience it all with an expert local leader by your side.
Highlights
  • Explore all the essential highlights of Central Asia, uncovering fascinating culture, natural landscapes and diverse history alongside unforgettable local interaction.
  • See the incredible Darvaza Crater (the Gates of Hell – an eternally burning flame), Kolsai Lakes and Issyk-Kul Lake, soaking up the natural landmarks far off the common tourist trail.
  • Take a step back in time as you explore the history of the Silk Road, with visits to Khiva’s ancient town, Registan, in Samarkand, Bukhara, and Khujand.
  • Get to know the locals with a carpet-making workshop, through the streets of the bustling bazaars and with a homecooked dinner of plov (Uzbekistan's national dish) during an immersive homestay.
  • Camp in yurts near Lake Issyk-Kul, stay in local villages and make yourself at home in a boutique hotel that used to be an old Jewish house in Bukhara.

Itinerary

ITINERARY CHANGES Our itineraries are updated regularly throughout the year based on customer feedback and to reflect the current situation in each destination. The information included in this Essential Trip Information may therefore differ from when you first booked your trip. It's important that you review this information prior to travel so that you have the latest updates. Due to weather, local conditions, transport schedules, public holidays, political unrest or other factors, further changes may be necessary to your itinerary once in-country. Your group leader or local representative will keep you up to date with any such changes once your trip is underway and has the authority to amend or cancel any part of the trip itinerary if deemed necessary due to safety concerns. , OPTIONAL ACTIVITIES A selection of optional activities that have been popular with past travellers are listed in the day-to-day itinerary. This isn't an exhaustive list and should be used as a guide only for some of what might be available. Prices are approximate, are for entrance fees only, and don’t include transport to and from the sites or local guides unless indicated. All activities are subject to availability, and may be on a join-in basis. It may not be possible to do all the activities listed in the time available at each destination, so some pre-planning for what you are most interested in is advised. When it's recommended that travellers pre-book these activities, look for a note in the Special Information section of the day-to-day itinerary. For most, they can either be organised independently on the day, or let your group leader or local representative know you are interested at the Welcome Meeting and they can assist. Where activities are considered medium or high risk, we work with operators whose safety and credentials we have sighted and assessed. Although it is possible that you may find the same activity cheaper with another operator on the ground, we cannot vouch for the safety or quality of that operator. Medium and high-risk activities not listed above have not been assessed by us and as such our staff and group leader or local representative are unable to assist you with organising these activities. Activities that contravene our Responsible Travel policies are also not listed. Please remember that the decision to partake in any activity not listed is at your own discretion and risk.

Day 1 - Ashgabat
Hos geldiniz! Welcome to Turkmenistan. Your adventure begins in the country’s capital, Ashgabat. Here, you’ll find manicured parklands, marble-lined streets and huge, modern monuments – a stark contrast to the rest of the ancient country. You’ll have a welcome meeting at 6 pm to meet your local leader and fellow travellers. If you arrive early, feel free to explore the area near your hotel. After the meeting, you’ll head out for dinner with your group to get your first taste of Turkmen cuisine.
Day 2 - Ashgabat
Head out for a city tour of Ashgabat with your leader today. First, you’ll see the four-pointed minarets of the Ertugrul Gazi Mosque and the extravagant Independence Monument. This sculpted park is filled with statues of Turkmen heroes (and controversial politicians) which line the paths that lead to a golden dome and a huge minaret. Continue to the Neutrality Arch, which, despite its name, has a provocative history. Travel outside the city to the Turkmenbashi Ruhy Mosque – the mausoleum of former Turkmen leader Saparmurat Niyazov – before heading to the ruins of Anau. The crumbling remains of this medieval mosque still attract the devout, who come to pray and make offerings. After an action-packed day full of sightseeing, tonight is free for you to explore (or simply relax) as you wish.
Day 3 - Darvaza
Enjoy a leisurely morning to explore Ashgabat at your own pace. This afternoon, make tracks for the Darvaza Crater – this 70-m-wide hole in the Karakum Desert is permanently aflame and is also known as the ‘Gates of Hell’. Soviet oil prospectors started drilling here in 1971, when suddenly the ground collapsed to form the crater. Worried about the gas released into the air, they deliberately set the crater on fire to burn off the excess, expecting it to last a few weeks. As you’ll see, the crater has been burning ever since. From your nearby camp, watch the sunset with your group as you have dinner before retiring to your tent for a night under the desert stars.
Day 4 - Khiva
It’s an early start this morning as you hit the road for a long day of travel. Stop on the way to visit the Izmukshir Fortress ruins in the Karakum Desert. The history of this stronghold dates back to the 3rd century. It once represented the height of Khorezm power as a strategic trade and military outpost, while now it only bears vestiges of its Silk Road heyday. Then travel to the Turkmen/Uzbek border crossing of Khodjeyli and continue to Khiva. When you arrive, you’ll have a free evening to rest.
Day 5 - Khiva
Spend today sightseeing in Khiva. With your local leader, you’ll see the blue-tiled Kalta Minor Minaret and the Mohammed Amin Khan Madrasah. Explore the Kuhna Ark – the 'citadel within a citadel,' which once housed the Khan and his family in the 17th century. Visit the Pahlavon Mahmud Mausoleum – constructed in honour of the famous 13th-century poet, craftsman and fighter – and the towering Islom Hoja Minaret, which is the tallest building in Khiva. Explore Juma Mosque and see how the roof is propped up by more than 200 wooden columns designed to let in sunlight. Next, see the Tosh-Hovli Palace, built in the first half of the 19th century. Wander through elaborately decorated courtyards connected by winding corridors, then enjoy a free afternoon to explore at your own pace.
Day 6 - Bukhara
Make sure your headphones are charged, as you have a big travel day ahead. You’ll arrive in Bukhara in Uzbekistan in the late afternoon, and the long drive will be rewarded with the mosaics and ancient monuments of the city. Founded no later than the 1st century BC, the city has been ruled by countless empires and dynasties, which is now reflected in the vibrant local culture. When you arrive, wander through the Lyab-i Hauz Plaza and the trading dome, watching as the ancient sites light up as night falls.
Day 7 - Bukhara
Head out for a half-day tour of Bukhara. First, you’ll visit the Sitorai Mohi Hosa – once the summer palace of the last Bukharan emirs. Designed by Russian architects, its interiors are decorated with traditional filigree plaster, mirrored surfaces and delicate floral wall paintings crafted by local artisans. Continue to the Ark Fortress – the symbol of Bukhara – then, see one of Central Asia's oldest and most exquisite structures – the 10th-century Ismail Samani Mausoleum. You then have a free afternoon to explore this ancient Silk Road town. Maybe visit Bolo-Hauz Mosque, Chor Minor, Kalon Mosque and Minaret, or Ulugbek Madrasah and Abdulaziz Khan Madrasah.
Day 8 - Samarkand
Spend a free morning in Bukhara, then jump aboard a train bound for Samarkand in the afternoon. This city is located at the very centre of the ancient Silk Road. When you arrive, visit the Gur-e-Amir Mausoleum where the Uzbek conqueror, Tamerlane, is buried. You then have a free evening – maybe follow your leader to Registan Square to see it illuminated at night.
Day 9 - Samarkand
This morning, head to Shah-i-Zinda – a necropolis featuring a series of blue-tiled mausoleums. This sacred site has monuments from the 14th to 19th centuries, reflecting the development of the monumental art and architecture of the Timurid dynasty. Then, visit the enormous Bibi-Khanym Mosque and explore the ancient bazaar right behind it, maybe sampling some halva (a local sweet made from sesame, sunflower seeds or peanuts) and a glass of freshly squeezed pomegranate juice (depending on the season). After, see the world-renowned Registan Square, which features three of the most famous madrasahs in Uzbekistan. The rest of the afternoon is free. Maybe inspect the ruins of the medieval observatory developed by Ulugh Beg – an astronomer and grandson of conqueror and emperor Tamerlane (Timur). Tonight, you’ll visit a local family to learn how to make plov (a hearty lamb and rice dish) during a cooking demonstration, which you’ll then tuck into for dinner.
Day 10 - Tashkent
You have a free morning before you say goodbye to Samarkand and hop on a train around midday, bound for Tashkent. When you arrive, you have a free evening to explore this capital city at leisure. Alternatively, you might like to take advantage of the down time and get some rest before a full day of exploring tomorrow.
Day 11 - Tashkent
Follow your leader on a walking tour of Tashkent today. Explore Amir Timur Square in the city centre, then hop on the metro to the Chorsu Bazaar, browsing traditional wooden cradles, handmade musical instruments and the extensive vegetable and spice markets. Enjoy a free afternoon to maybe visit the Khast Imom Complex – a restored series of religious buildings (including a mosque) and a library containing an ancient Qur’an, parts of which have been dated to the 9th century.
Day 12 - Khojand
After breakfast this morning, hit the road to the Oybek border to cross into Tajikistan before arriving in Khujand. This city is known as Alexandria Eschate (Alexandria ‘the furthest’) and is believed to have been founded by Alexander the Great in the 6th century BC. When you arrive, wander around the bazaar and Jami Mosque, then maybe hit up the history museum.
Day 13 - Sary Tag
Make the scenic drive across Shakhristan Pass (located at an elevation of 3378 m) to Iskanderkul Lake. Named after Alexander the Great, this scenic spot is a popular weekend destination for many locals from Dushanbe. When you arrive, admire the local ‘Niagara’ and Zmeinoe Lake before continuing to Sarytag – a mountain village on the other end of the lake, set in the heart of Fann Mountains. This evening, you’ll have a little time to explore the village and discover the local way of life.
Day 14 - Dushanbe
This morning, hit the mountain roads once more and drive over the Anzob Pass (at an elevation of 3373 m) to Dushanbe – the capital of Tajikistan. After lunch, visit Hisor Fort – the former capital of the Eastern Bukhara province. Explore this ancient fortress, located on a hill overlooking the town of Hisor, and check out its impressive stone walls, commanding gateway and manicured gardens. The afternoon is free for you to explore Dushanbe at your own pace. Maybe explore one of the many parks or museums in the city.
Day 15 - Dushanbe
Take a public bus to Navruz Palace – originally planned as a large teahouse, the palace has now grown into a conference hall decorated in traditional Tajik style. Head to Rudaki Square and see the Ismoil Somoni Monument overlooking the city hall. Anyone with a soft spot for archaeology will enjoy the National Museum of Antiquities, which opened in 2001. Here, you can check out exhibitions about Tajikistan’s pre-Islamic civilisations (Greek/Bactrian, Buddhist, Hindu and Zoroastrian). The centrepiece is the 14-m-tall reclining Buddha in Nirvana – since the tragic destruction of the Bamiyan statues in Afghanistan, this is the largest surviving Buddha statue in Central Asia.
Day 16 - Almaty
After breakfast, catch a flight to Almaty – the largest city in Kazakhstan, known as a skier's paradise due to the snow-capped mountains that frame the entire city. With beautiful parks, restaurants, museums and plenty of shops and markets to choose from, this city stands in stark contrast to the countryside surrounding it. Depending on the time of your flight today, you may have an opportunity to explore the city this afternoon. Otherwise, have an early night and get prepared for a jam-packed day of sightseeing tomorrow.
Day 17 - Almaty
Strap in for a full day of sightseeing in Almaty. Kazakhstan is one of the world's top five oil-producing nations, and you’ll notice the development and wealth that comes from this as you wander the streets. You’ll visit Republic Square and the colourful Zenkov Cathedral in Panfilov Park – dedicated to the 28 guardsmen who died defending Moscow against Nazi tanks in WWII. Then, check out the fascinating Kazakh Museum of Folk Musical Instruments. The rest of the day is free for you to explore at your leisure – just ask your local leader for recommendations.
Day 18 - Kolsay Lakes National Park
This morning, drive to the village of Saty, stopping along the way to visit the remarkable Charyn Canyon. This richly coloured canyon shifts between shades of orange and brown as the sun travels across the sky. Enjoy some time here to marvel at this natural wonder and grab some photos before continuing to Saty.
Day 19 - Karakol
Explore the area surrounding Saty village today with a hike to Kolsai Lakes. Also known as ‘the blue necklace’, this spot offers views of clear blue waters framed by green mountains. You may also visit the lesser-known Kaindy Lake – a turquoise lake with a striking ‘submerged forest’ protruding from the water. The lake was created by an earthquake in 1911 which caused a limestone landslide, creating a dam in the forest. Have lunch during your hike, then continue the journey to Kyrgyzstan. When you arrive in Karakol, head out to explore with your leader – once a small Russian military post, then a bustling Soviet state, this town is bursting with history. Visit the Dungan Mosque – built in 1910, this colourful mosque was created without the use of a single nail. Instead, the structure was built using special techniques that utilise cuts and grooves. Then, explore the Holy Trinity Orthodox Cathedral and a local market.
Day 20 - Issyk-Kul Lake
Today is for scenic hikes and panoramic views! After breakfast, drive along the south shore of Issyk-Kul Lake. At 178 km long and 60 km wide, this is one of the largest lakes in the world. On the way, stop to see Jeti Oguz – also known as Seven Bulls Rock. From here, you’ll continue to Skazka (‘Fairytale’) Canyon, where you can take in the rich orange landscapes that blanket the area. Tonight, you'll stay in a yurt camp – a truly special experience. Yurts have a long history in this area, having been used for generations by nomadic tribes. Settle in and enjoy a night under the stars!
Day 21 - Issyk-Kul Lake
Wander the alpine area of Issyk-Kul and visit a few local families who’ll teach you more about their traditional yurts. During a special workshop, you’ll learn the basics of how these nomadic dwellings have been built and how they play an important role in the community here. Then, you’ll visit a local family to learn how they make felt and join them for a home-cooked lunch. Tonight, relax in your yurt camp and maybe toast to a sky full of stars with a small vodka.
Day 22 - Bishkek
This morning, say goodbye to your alpine camp and hit the road for Bishkek – the capital of Kyrgyzstan and your last destination. Stop at Burana Tower – a minaret and the most visible remnant of the ancient city of Balasagun. Then, continue to Don-Aryk and meet a local Kyrgyz family for a home-cooked lunch. Arrive in Bishkek in the mid-afternoon, then set off on an orientation walk with your leader and enjoy a free evening.
Day 23 - Bishkek
Head out on a city tour this morning to get a look at Bishkek’s rich history. Visit the centre of the city – Ala-Too Square, known as Lenin Square in Soviet times. A statue of Lenin used to stand in the middle of this square, gesturing towards the mountains. Then, head to Dubovy (Oak) Park, where you'll find century-old oaks. Later, you'll have some free time to keep exploring Bishkek at your leisure. You might like to visit the Osh Bazaar – it might be a little noisy and crowded here, but you’ll get an authentic look at local life. You'll find all kinds of things on sale here, from spices and fruits to clothes and carpets. In the evening, maybe get together with your fellow travellers for a final dinner together to celebrate a great journey through the five Stans.
Day 24 - Bishkek
With no further activities planned, your adventure comes to an end after breakfast today. You can check out of your hotel any time before noon. If you need help with transfers or extra accommodation, just get in touch with your booking agent ahead of time.

Trip Dates

StartEndPrice FromRoom Type
26-03-202718-04-2027AUD $ 11,260-
29-03-202721-04-2027AUD $ 11,590-
31-03-202723-04-2027AUD $ 10,595-
02-04-202725-04-2027AUD $ 12,495-
05-04-202728-04-2027AUD $ 11,330-
07-04-202730-04-2027AUD $ 11,130-
09-04-202702-05-2027AUD $ 10,595-
12-04-202705-05-2027AUD $ 11,095-
14-04-202707-05-2027AUD $ 10,895-
16-04-202709-05-2027AUD $ 10,595-
19-04-202712-05-2027AUD $ 10,895-
23-04-202716-05-2027AUD $ 10,895-
28-04-202721-05-2027AUD $ 10,895-
30-04-202723-05-2027AUD $ 10,895-
03-05-202726-05-2027AUD $ 11,020-
07-05-202730-05-2027AUD $ 10,695-
10-05-202702-06-2027AUD $ 10,275-
14-05-202706-06-2027AUD $ 9,995-
17-05-202709-06-2027AUD $ 10,395-
21-05-202713-06-2027AUD $ 9,995-
24-05-202716-06-2027AUD $ 10,295-
31-05-202723-06-2027AUD $ 10,295-
04-06-202727-06-2027AUD $ 9,995-
07-06-202730-06-2027AUD $ 9,495-
09-06-202702-07-2027AUD $ 9,995-
11-06-202704-07-2027AUD $ 9,495-
14-06-202707-07-2027AUD $ 9,995-
16-06-202709-07-2027AUD $ 9,995-
06-08-202729-08-2027AUD $ 10,095-
11-08-202703-09-2027AUD $ 9,995-
13-08-202705-09-2027AUD $ 10,295-
16-08-202708-09-2027AUD $ 10,295-
18-08-202710-09-2027AUD $ 10,295-
20-08-202712-09-2027AUD $ 10,295-
23-08-202715-09-2027AUD $ 10,295-
25-08-202717-09-2027AUD $ 10,295-
27-08-202719-09-2027AUD $ 10,295-
30-08-202722-09-2027AUD $ 10,795-
01-09-202724-09-2027AUD $ 10,795-
03-09-202726-09-2027AUD $ 10,795-
06-09-202729-09-2027AUD $ 10,795-
08-09-202701-10-2027AUD $ 10,895-
10-09-202703-10-2027AUD $ 10,795-
13-09-202706-10-2027AUD $ 10,795-
15-09-202708-10-2027AUD $ 10,795-
17-09-202710-10-2027AUD $ 10,895-
20-09-202713-10-2027AUD $ 10,795-
22-09-202715-10-2027AUD $ 11,490-
24-09-202717-10-2027AUD $ 10,795-
27-09-202720-10-2027AUD $ 10,795-
29-09-202722-10-2027AUD $ 10,795-
01-10-202724-10-2027AUD $ 10,295-
04-10-202727-10-2027AUD $ 10,295-
06-10-202729-10-2027AUD $ 10,295-
08-10-202731-10-2027AUD $ 10,295-
11-10-202703-11-2027AUD $ 10,295-
13-10-202705-11-2027AUD $ 10,295-
15-10-202707-11-2027AUD $ 10,295-
18-10-202710-11-2027AUD $ 10,295-
24-03-202816-04-2028AUD $ 11,125-
27-03-202819-04-2028AUD $ 11,125-
31-03-202823-04-2028AUD $ 11,125-
03-04-202826-04-2028AUD $ 11,125-
05-04-202828-04-2028AUD $ 11,125-
07-04-202830-04-2028AUD $ 11,125-
10-04-202803-05-2028AUD $ 11,125-
12-04-202805-05-2028AUD $ 11,125-
14-04-202807-05-2028AUD $ 11,125-
17-04-202810-05-2028AUD $ 11,125-
21-04-202814-05-2028AUD $ 11,125-
26-04-202819-05-2028AUD $ 11,125-
28-04-202821-05-2028AUD $ 11,125-
01-05-202824-05-2028AUD $ 10,495-
05-05-202828-05-2028AUD $ 10,495-
08-05-202831-05-2028AUD $ 10,495-
12-05-202804-06-2028AUD $ 10,495-
15-05-202807-06-2028AUD $ 10,495-
19-05-202811-06-2028AUD $ 10,495-
22-05-202814-06-2028AUD $ 10,495-
29-05-202821-06-2028AUD $ 10,495-
02-06-202825-06-2028AUD $ 10,495-
05-06-202828-06-2028AUD $ 10,495-
07-06-202830-06-2028AUD $ 10,495-
09-06-202802-07-2028AUD $ 10,495-
12-06-202805-07-2028AUD $ 10,495-
14-06-202807-07-2028AUD $ 10,495-
04-08-202827-08-2028AUD $ 10,495-
09-08-202801-09-2028AUD $ 10,810-
11-08-202803-09-2028AUD $ 10,810-
14-08-202806-09-2028AUD $ 10,810-
16-08-202808-09-2028AUD $ 10,810-
18-08-202810-09-2028AUD $ 10,810-
21-08-202813-09-2028AUD $ 10,810-
23-08-202815-09-2028AUD $ 10,810-
25-08-202817-09-2028AUD $ 11,125-
28-08-202820-09-2028AUD $ 11,125-
30-08-202822-09-2028AUD $ 11,335-
01-09-202824-09-2028AUD $ 11,335-
04-09-202827-09-2028AUD $ 11,335-
06-09-202829-09-2028AUD $ 11,335-
08-09-202801-10-2028AUD $ 11,335-
11-09-202804-10-2028AUD $ 11,335-
13-09-202806-10-2028AUD $ 11,335-
15-09-202808-10-2028AUD $ 11,335-
18-09-202811-10-2028AUD $ 11,335-
20-09-202813-10-2028AUD $ 11,335-
22-09-202815-10-2028AUD $ 11,335-
25-09-202818-10-2028AUD $ 11,335-
27-09-202820-10-2028AUD $ 11,335-
29-09-202822-10-2028AUD $ 11,335-
02-10-202825-10-2028AUD $ 11,335-
04-10-202827-10-2028AUD $ 10,810-
06-10-202829-10-2028AUD $ 10,810-
09-10-202801-11-2028AUD $ 10,810-
11-10-202803-11-2028AUD $ 10,810-
13-10-202805-11-2028AUD $ 10,810-
16-10-202808-11-2028AUD $ 10,810-
20-10-202812-11-2028AUD $ 10,810-
27-10-202819-11-2028AUD $ 10,810-

Accommodation

Hotel (17 nights), Guest House (1 night), Tourist Yurt Camp (3 nights), Home Stay (2 nights)

Transport

Private Vehicle, Flight, Metro, High Speed Train

Map

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