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Peregrine Travel Centre

Premium Central Asia

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Premium Central Asia

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Description

Journey back to the days of the Great Silk Road on an 18-day Premium adventure through Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan. Explore the cosmopolitan capital of Tashkent, marvel at the architecture in Samarkand, discover the holy sites of Bukhara and visit the ancient monuments of Khiva. Get to know the ins and outs of an Uzbek village and go on hikes in Sharyn Canyon and Jety Oguz Valley. Spend a night in a traditional yurt camp alongside the massive alpine lake of Issyk Kul, plus visit a family-owned winery for a tasting, have lunch in a small traditional village and enjoy a masterclass of local cuisine from a Dungan family. With all this and more, what’s holding you back from your next adventure?

Trip Name
Premium Central Asia
Last Updated
1970-01-01
Days
18
Capacity
12
Highlights
  • Spend a memorable night in a yurt camp near the second-largest alpine lake in the world, plus sleep within the walls of Uzbekistan’s history at a historical property in Bukhara – your two Feature Stays.
  • Understand local life through food by joining local families for cooking classes in Samarkand and Khiva. Feast on delicious local cuisine at a family-owned winery in Almaty, a Dungan family home and in the remote Kyzyl-Tuu village.
  • Uncover Tashkent’s Soviet legacy and the magic of Uzbekistan's ‘holiest city’ in Bukhara. Hear ancient tales of Khiva and be guided through the architecture of Samarkand.
  • Head off the tourist track and see some incredible natural landscapes – on this trip, you’ll visit Sharyn Canyon (nicknamed the little brother of the Grand Canyon), Jety Oguz, Skazka Canyon and Lake Issyk Kul.
  • Soak up some of the layered history and diverse architecture of two former Silk Route cities – Almaty in Kazakhstan and Bishkek in Kyrgyzstan.

Itinerary

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 maybe 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., 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.

Day 1 - Tashkent
Xush kelibsiz! Welcome to Uzbekistan. Your adventure begins in the largest city in Central Asia, Tashkent. The mix of Russian and Uzbek style is an indication that for many years, it was a key city of the USSR. Extravagant mosques, both ancient and new, sit alongside modern highways and Soviet monuments. When you arrive at the airport, you’ll be met by a local representative and be transferred to your hotel. You’ll have a welcome meeting at 6 pm tonight to meet your local leader and fellow travellers. If you arrive early, maybe take a walk to see some of the contemporary architecture that sets this city apart from many other Silk Road destinations. After your meeting, join your group for a welcome dinner at an excellent local restaurant serving traditional Uzbek specialties.
Day 2 - Tashkent
This morning, you’ll connect with one of the country’s most distinctive artistic traditions in a pottery master class. Admire the history and beauty of Uzbek ceramics, then make your own piece, learning to prep the clay, select a form, wheel throw, mold and decorate your work of art. Later, explore Tashkent on a city tour with your leader. First, make your way to the Khast Imom Complex, which includes the Barak Khan medressa (a college for Islamic instruction), the Kaffal Shashi Mausoleum, the Quran Library and the Mosque. Then, leave behind the spiritual world and venture into the Chorsu Bazaar – one of the largest and oldest markets in Central Asia. Uzbeks are some of the friendliest people in the world and with your leader on hand to bridge any language gaps, you’ll soon find yourself chatting to many locals. See some of Tashkent’s beautiful metro stations, then finish at Amir Timur Square.
Day 3 - Tashkent to Samarkand
Early this morning, take a high-speed Afrosiab train to the ancient Silk Road hub of Samarkand. The city has long been a centre of artisans and traders as well as the prize for many a conquering army, leaving behind a rich and complex history. When you arrive, stop by the gorgeous remains of the Ulugbek Observatory, built by a Muslim prince – your leader will explain how this unpopular ruler had a controversial passion for astronomy. After, explore the Afrosiab Museum – home to a treasured 7th-century fresco of the Sogdian King Varkhouman. Then, head to the workshop of a local artisan in Konigil to discover one of the few people in Central Asia who continues to produce paper using a 1000-year-old method. This village is home to the Meros paper mill, founded by well-known masters, the Mukhtarov brothers. Thanks to their efforts, the local factory revived an ancient tradition based on old Samarkand technologies. Then, get ready for your special dinner experience tonight. You’ll join a local family for a cooking demonstration on the traditional meal plov (a tasty rice dish cooked over an open flame in a traditional cauldron). Uzbek men pride themselves on their ability to prepare the unique dish and you’ll see why as you sit down to share some over dinner.
Day 4 - Samarkand
Today you’ll dig deeper into Samarkand’s fascinating cultural heritage with your leader. First, visit the holy Shah-i-Zinda complex – the so-called ‘Town of the Dead’ necropolis, with more than 20 beautifully decorated unique buildings. Then, head to the Gur Amir Mausoleum. Your leader will tell you all about the mighty ruler Timur, as this is his final resting place. Stand on the iconic Registan Square with three mosaic-adorned madrassas towering over you, then explore the Siob Bazaar, full of bustling stalls and friendly local traders. This afternoon, head out of the city to the Bagizagan winery, considered the best wine producer in Uzbekistan. Get special insight into the production of Uzbek wine and try a few drops for yourself. In the evening, you’ll have time to explore Samarkand at your leisure.
Day 5 - Bukhara
This morning, you’ll make your way to the holy and historic city of Bukhara on a high-speed train. A UNESCO World Heritage-listed site, Bukhara is widely regarded as Central Asia’s holiest city and is home to monuments dating from the 8th to the 18th century AD. When you arrive, you’ll take a tour of some of the sites with your leader. Head out to see some of the monuments – the meticulous restoration of many of the mosaic and majolica decorations gives you a true sense of how these buildings looked in their original glory. Visit the Ismail Samani Mausoleum, the Chashma Ayub Mausoleum and the Bolo-Khauz Mosque. After, head to your historical Feature Stay in the UNESCO-listed Old City of Bukahara. After settling in, you’ll gather for a miniature painting workshop, guided by a master artist who will share the delicate techniques that distinguish this Bukharan style. Enjoy tea and snacks while you enjoy this calm, hands-on activity in a local studio and create your own version of this centuries-old Silk Road art form. This evening, head out to dinner at a local restaurant.
Day 6 - Bukhara
This morning, you’ll continue to explore Bukhara with your leader. After breakfast, visit the ruins of the 5th-century Ark Fortress and the imposing Poikalon complex. Taki Zargaron and the trading domes near here still offer a colourful array of goods including embroideries, jewellery, spices, handicrafts and all manner of Silk Road treasures. This is the place to test your haggling skills and share a joke or two with local craftsman and merchants. Visit the central Lyabi-Hauz complex and its surrounding areas, which you may want to revisit during twilight hours. Then, you have the rest of the afternoon and evening free to explore at your own pace – your leader will always be on hand with great recommendations.
Day 7 - Khiva
After a leisurely morning in Bukhara, visit Sitorai Mohi Hosa – the summer Palace of Alim Khan, Uzbekistan’s last emir. Your leader will share stories of the emir’s extravagant lifestyle as you explore the luxuriously decorated compound. Then, say your goodbyes and drive to Khiva. You’ll travel through the Kyzyl-Kum (Red Sands Desert) – the largest desert area in Central Asia that has long been inhabited by various nomadic people. Arrive in Khiva in the evening, where you’re free to rest and recharge after a long travel day.
Day 8 - Khiva
Take a full day to explore Khiva with your leader. This city is well preserved and perfect for exploring on foot, with impressive walls that mark the boundaries of the Old City. Your leader will guide you through the ancient monuments, including the turquoise Kalta Minor Minaret, the Khan museum, the 17th-century Juma Mosque and the Islom-Hoja Minaret and Medressa. Visit the Kuhna Ark, which was the main fortress, and look over the city from the hill of the Ak-Sheikh Baba observation platform. Finish with the tranquil 19th-century Tosh-Hovli Palace. Later, head to one of the city’s roof terraces for a glass of champagne as you watch the sunset. Tonight, join a cooking class and learn the secrets of Khorezmian cuisine. Make traditional dishes like shivit oshi (green noodles), then tuck into your creations for dinner.
Day 9 - Tashkent
Transfer to the airport in the morning for a flight to Tashkent. Admire the facade of the Navoi Theatre, named for one of the nom de plumes of Ali-Shir Nava’I – a 16th-century writer and mystic. The multi-arched building was partially constructed by Japanese prisoners of war. Next, take a walk down the buzzing Broadway Alley, where there’s always something happening. Take some time to wander the street lined by shady trees and works from local artists. Tonight, join your fellow travellers for a final dinner and say farewell to this spectacular Silk Road country.
Day 10 - Almaty
Say goodbye to Uzbekistan today and catch an unescorted flight to Almaty, Kazakhstan's former capital which features wide, tree-lined streets, numerous parks and views of snow-capped mountains. If you arrive early, you may want to visit the State Museum of Arts, the State History Museum or the Kasteev House Museum – the most famous Kazakh artist from Soviet times. This evening, there will be a second group meeting to meet your new local leader and fellow travellers, after which you’ll have dinner with your group at a traditional Kazakh restaurant.
Day 11 - Almaty
Today, you’ll head out with a local guide for a city tour of downtown Almaty. Visit Central Square and the colourful Zenkoff Cathedral (the second-tallest wooden building in the world) in historic Panfilov Park, dedicated to the 28 guardsmen who died defending Moscow against German tanks in WWII. After, visit the upper part of the city for panoramic views of Almaty and the surrounding mountains, and see Medeu – the famous high-altitude skating rink. The rest of your afternoon and evening is free to explore at your own pace.
Day 12 - Bishkek
After breakfast this morning, you’ll leave Kazakhstan for Kyrgyzstan. Along the way, stop at a nomadic centre outside Bishkek. Learn about Kyrgyz culture, taste traditional baursaks (fried dough) and watch a demonstration of nomadic weapons and armour. Marvel at a few traditional equestrian games including archery on horseback and trick riding that includes Tenge Ilu (picking up coins from the ground while riding)! Then, settle down for lunch or dimlama (a hearty, meaty stew), plov (rice) and samsa (a savory pastry). After, carry on to Bishkek – the capital of Kyrgyzstan that borders Central Asia’s Tian Shan range. When you arrive in the late afternoon, head straight out for an orientation walk with your leader to get your bearings, then you can enjoy a free evening.
Day 13 - Bishkek
Embark on a half-day city tour of downtown Bishkek today. Meet with a local Bishkek guide and head out to see Ala-Too Square and the statue of Manas – the hero of heroes for the local Kyrgyz people. See the Russian Orthodox church, one of the only few Lenin statues left in all the ex-USSR countries, Oak Park (the oldest park in the country), the Opera house and Victory Square with its eternal flame dedicated to WW2. Then, it’s time for a kurak masterclass – this traditional form of patchwork sewing and quilting is considered an important symbol of Kyrgyz identity and women’s artistic heritage. Create your own kurak brooch and learn the story behind the different patterns and colours. Tonight, join your group for dinner in Bishkek.
Day 14 - Issyk Kul
After a relaxed breakfast today, you’ll start the drive to Lake Issyk Kul – one of the largest lakes in the world, 178 km (111 mi) long and 60 km (37 mi) wide. Along the way, stop at Burana Tower – a large minaret in the Chuy Valley – and visit the monument and museum. After, stop for a traditional homemade lunch near the lake and maybe have the chance to play some local Kyrgyz games. After, you’ll continue to your yurt accommodation for the night. When you arrive, maybe take a walk with your group to admire the landscape or just relax before gathering around the campfire for dinner under the stars in this special remote spot.
Day 15 - Karakol
Today, you’ll continue to Kyzyk Tuu village. When you arrive, meet with a local craftsman who keeps the ancient tradition of yurt-making alive. Head to a workshop where the craftsman will show you how they’re made with no electrical tools, including the process of making kiiz (the felt layers that cover the yurt). Maybe even have a go at assembling your own! Then, head to Karakol – the furthest eastern outpost of former Tsarist Russia and later, of the USSR. On the way, visit Skazka Canyon (which translates to Fairytale Canyon) to soak in the rugged stone peaks that contrast the meadows and alpine lakes that make so much of Kyrgyzstan’s landscape. Keep going to Karakol – this town was founded as a Russian military outpost and still has a few ‘gingerbread houses’ along its scenic streets. After a fun and busy day, the evening is free to do as you wish.
Day 16 - Karakol
Today you’ll head out of town to the Jety Oguz Valley – its name means ‘seven bulls’ in reference to the seven red-brown cliffs you’ll see here. Talk a walk through the gorgeous valley, then head back to Karakol for a walk with your leader. First, visit the Prezhevalsky Museum and learn about a Russian explorer who made discoveries in China and Mongolia. Then, walk along the scenic streets of Karakol to see the ‘gingerbread cottage’ houses. Visit a lively local market to browse for souvenirs, then see the Dungan Mosque and the Holy Trinity Cathedral. Tonight, you’ll be welcomed into the family home of a Dungan local for a masterclass on local cuisine – the Dungan or Hui people are a local ethnic group of Chinese Muslims who escaped China after the defeat of the Hui revolt in 1877. Today, they have a large community all over Central Asia, especially in Karakol. Enjoy dinner with your hosts, then head back to your accommodation for a relaxing evening.
Day 17 - Almaty
Today is a long travel day, including a border crossing back into Kazakhstan. Wake up early this morning and grab a window seat if you can – the scenery is entertainment in itself! You’ll make a few stops along the way for photos and to stretch your legs, including at Charyn Canyon, often referred as the little brother of the Grand Canyon in the United States. Wind and water have shaped this spectacular canyon with different shapes and colours. Go on a short hike to the bottom of the canyon, seeing some incredible viewpoints along the way. After, continue to Almaty. When you arrive, freshen up at the hotel then head out to a local, family-owned and operated winery just outside the city for a delicious farewell dinner and wine tasting. Meet the owners and learn more about wine production in Kazakhstan. Then, raise a glass to your amazing adventure!
Day 18 - Almaty
With no further activities planned, your trip comes to an end after breakfast this morning. If you want to continue your trip in Central Asia and discover more along the Silk Routes, then check out the Premium Uzbekistan trip. If you need to organise additional accommodation, just get in touch with your booking agent ahead of time.

Trip Dates

StartEndPrice FromRoom Type
27-08-202613-09-2026AUD $ 9,120-
06-09-202623-09-2026AUD $ 9,546-
10-09-202627-09-2026AUD $ 8,662-
17-09-202604-10-2026AUD $ 9,512-
20-09-202607-10-2026AUD $ 9,261-
24-09-202611-10-2026AUD $ 9,558-
01-10-202618-10-2026AUD $ 9,986-
08-10-202625-10-2026AUD $ 9,774-
15-10-202601-11-2026AUD $ 9,657-
14-03-202731-03-2027AUD $ 11,315-
19-03-202705-04-2027AUD $ 11,315-
25-03-202711-04-2027AUD $ 12,235-
02-04-202719-04-2027AUD $ 12,235-
08-04-202725-04-2027AUD $ 12,235-
11-04-202728-04-2027AUD $ 12,235-
16-04-202703-05-2027AUD $ 12,235-
22-04-202709-05-2027AUD $ 11,995-
30-04-202717-05-2027AUD $ 11,995-
06-05-202723-05-2027AUD $ 11,995-
13-05-202730-05-2027AUD $ 11,995-
21-05-202707-06-2027AUD $ 11,660-
27-05-202713-06-2027AUD $ 11,660-
30-05-202716-06-2027AUD $ 11,315-
04-06-202721-06-2027AUD $ 11,315-
20-08-202706-09-2027AUD $ 11,315-
26-08-202712-09-2027AUD $ 11,315-
29-08-202715-09-2027AUD $ 11,315-
02-09-202719-09-2027AUD $ 12,235-
05-09-202722-09-2027AUD $ 12,235-
10-09-202727-09-2027AUD $ 12,235-
16-09-202703-10-2027AUD $ 11,995-
19-09-202706-10-2027AUD $ 11,995-
24-09-202711-10-2027AUD $ 11,995-
30-09-202717-10-2027AUD $ 11,995-
08-10-202725-10-2027AUD $ 11,660-
14-10-202731-10-2027AUD $ 11,660-
22-10-202708-11-2027AUD $ 11,660-
24-10-202710-11-2027AUD $ 11,660-
28-10-202714-11-2027AUD $ 11,660-
12-03-202829-03-2028AUD $ 11,880-
17-03-202803-04-2028AUD $ 11,880-
23-03-202809-04-2028AUD $ 12,245-
31-03-202817-04-2028AUD $ 12,245-
06-04-202823-04-2028AUD $ 12,845-
14-04-202801-05-2028AUD $ 12,845-
20-04-202807-05-2028AUD $ 12,845-
28-04-202815-05-2028AUD $ 12,845-
04-05-202821-05-2028AUD $ 12,595-
11-05-202828-05-2028AUD $ 12,595-
19-05-202805-06-2028AUD $ 12,595-
25-05-202811-06-2028AUD $ 12,595-
02-06-202819-06-2028AUD $ 11,880-
18-08-202804-09-2028AUD $ 11,880-
24-08-202810-09-2028AUD $ 11,880-
31-08-202817-09-2028AUD $ 11,880-
03-09-202820-09-2028AUD $ 12,845-
08-09-202825-09-2028AUD $ 12,845-
14-09-202801-10-2028AUD $ 12,845-
17-09-202804-10-2028AUD $ 12,595-
22-09-202809-10-2028AUD $ 12,595-
28-09-202815-10-2028AUD $ 12,595-
06-10-202823-10-2028AUD $ 12,245-
12-10-202829-10-2028AUD $ 12,245-
20-10-202806-11-2028AUD $ 12,245-
22-10-202808-11-2028AUD $ 12,245-
26-10-202812-11-2028AUD $ 12,245-

Accommodation

Comfortable hotel (14 nights) Feature Stay (3 nights).

Transport

Private vehicle, Plane, Train

Map

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