ALMATY, Kazakhstan

Almaty - Arrival in the southern capital city of Kazakhstan, Almaty. Upon arrival, guests will be greeted at the airport and transferred to a hotel. Enjoy some leisure time to relax. The following morning marks the beginning of an exhilarating journey through Central Asia! Looking forward to seeing everyone tomorrow!

ALMATY

Almaty - After breakfast, the day begins with an exploration of Almaty. Today’s itinerary includes:

Park Named After Panfilov’s 28 Guardsmen - Visit Panfilov Park, the oldest park in Almaty, featuring Zenkov Cathedral, the eternal flame, and World War II monuments.

Zeleny Bazar - Explore the Green Bazaar, a traditional market offering local shopping, dried fruits, and souvenirs.

Republic Square - Discover Republic Square, home to national monuments and city administration buildings.

Kok-Tobe Hill - Visit the legendary Hotel Kazakhstan, once the tallest building in Central Asia. Kok Tobe, meaning Green Hill in Kazakh, is a recreational area on a hilltop offering a cable car ride and panoramic views of Almaty. Also, explore the Opera and Ballet Theatre, showcasing old Soviet architecture, and Panfilov Alley, highlighting Almaty’s cultural life with restaurants and architecture. After this delightful Almaty tour, enjoy some personal free time. Have a wonderful evening! Tomorrow, the journey continues into the regions…

ALMATY - CHARYN CANYON - KOLSAY

Charyn Canyon - After breakfast, the journey continues towards the renowned Charyn Canyon, often referred to as the Grand Canyon’s little brother (3 hours). Upon arrival, enjoy exploring Charyn with hiking and photography opportunities. Lunch will be at a café.

Kolsai Lake - The adventure proceeds to the enchanting Kolsay Lakes (2 hours), known as the “Pearls of the Tien Shan.” Nestled among conifer forests and towering peaks of the Tien Shan mountains, these small alpine lakes are located in southeastern Kazakhstan, near the Kyrgyzstan border. Upon arrival in Saty village, check into a guesthouse. A short 10-minute drive leads to the first lake, where guests can walk around and enjoy the crisp alpine air. Personal free time follows, with dinner provided. Tomorrow, the exploration of Kolsay and the hidden gem, Kaindy Lake, continues.

KOLSAY - KAINDY LAKE - KOLSAY

Lake Kaindy - After breakfast, guests will take a short drive (12km) in old Soviet UAZ trucks to explore the magical turquoise Lake Kaindy, famous for its submerged spruce trees. This stunning alpine lake was formed by a massive landslide caused by the “Kemin earthquake” in 1911. Enjoy free time at this captivating location before returning to the village for lunch.

Kolsai Lake - The journey returns to Kolsay Lake for a more in-depth exploration, including a walk through forest terrain to a panoramic viewpoint. Enjoy free time to take in the views and capture photographs. Boat rides are available in summer (optional). Return to the hotel for personal free time and dinner.

KOLSAY - KEGEN - KARAKOL

Karakol - Upon crossing into Kyrgyzstan, the journey continues to the nearest major town, Karakol (3 hours), with lunch en route. Karakol is a tourist hub located in eastern Kyrgyzstan, approximately 400km from Bishkek, the capital. It is situated between the north and south shores of Issyk Kul, the world’s second-largest alpine lake, and is home to some of Central Asia’s best mountain trekking routes. Arrival in Karakol is expected in the late afternoon, with hotel check-in and personal free time for rest. In the evening, the group may opt for a short drive outside Karakol to the natural hot spring pools of Ak Suu for a relaxing soak (optional). Dinner will be provided.

KARAKOL - SKI BASE - JETI OGUZ - KARAKOL

Jeti-Oguz Canyon (Seven Bulls Rocks) - After breakfast, the day begins with a visit to Kyrgyzstan’s premier ski resort. In winter, guests can enjoy skiing, while in summer, the stunning views of the Issyk Kul region are equally breathtaking. The resort features lush green meadows, vast conifer forests, snow-capped peaks, glaciers, and the entire lake as a backdrop. A chair lift will take guests to an elevation of 3040 meters above sea level, where they can walk on the plateau and enjoy the views. Return to Karakol for a short city tour, including the Old Orthodox Church (1895) and Dungan Mosque (1910). A visit to a local handmade souvenir shop is optional. Lunch will be at a restaurant. The journey continues to Jeti Oguz Valley, known for its red rock formations. A drive through the valley, crossing several river bridges, leads to “jailoo” (alpine pasture), where guests can embark on a scenic walk uphill to the hidden “Maiden Braids” waterfall.

Karakol - Return to Karakol for personal free time and dinner at a restaurant.

KARAKOL - BARSKOON VALLEY - SKAZKA CANYON - KAJI SAY

KAJI SAY - AK SAI VILLAGE - ORTO TOKOI - SON KOL

Bokonbayevo - After breakfast, the journey continues to the nearby village of Bokonbaevo to gather supplies for a delightful picnic. The next stop is the neighboring village of Ak Sai, where guests will meet a local “Berkutchi” (eagle man) for a fascinating experience:
Kyrgyz Eagle Hunting - This traditional form of falconry dates back thousands of years and involves using trained golden eagles to hunt small prey (only artificial animal carcasses are used during the hunts). Guests will learn key facts about these majestic birds and participate in national archery.
The journey then proceeds to the adjacent Ak Say canyons (also known as the Canyon of Forgotten Rivers) for a beautiful, light hike to a panoramic spot (1 hour round trip). Afterwards, enjoy a delicious picnic in paradise, with opportunities for swimming and relaxing on the wild beach of Issyk Kul Lake.

Son Kul Lake - It’s time to bid farewell to the enchanting Issyk Kul region and head towards the Naryn region for new adventures. The route passes by the Orto Tokoi water reservoir, leading to Son Kol Lake. Check-in to the first yurt camp of the journey. Enjoy personal free time to take in the sunset. At Son Kol, it feels like the edge of the world. Dinner will be provided.

SON KOL LAKE - NARYN

Son Kul Lake - Spend half the day exploring the charming Son Kol Lake. Breakfast will be served at the yurt camp. Enjoy horseback riding on the vast green meadows, with free time for walking around and contemplating the lake. Lunch will be at the camp.

Naryn - The journey continues to Naryn town, descending the picturesque “33 parrots” mountain pass (2.5 hours). A stop at a lovely waterfall is included (15-minute walk). Arrival in Naryn includes hotel check-in and free time for rest. Dinner will be at a restaurant.

NARYN - KEL SUU

KEL SUU - NARYN - KOCHKOR

Kochkor - After breakfast, enjoy some free time to explore the landscapes of Kel Suu. The journey then returns to Naryn for lunch at a restaurant before continuing to the small town of Kochkor (1.5 hours). Hotel check-in and free time for rest follow. Dinner and overnight stay are included.

KOCHKOR - BURANA TOWER - BISHKEK

Burana Tower - After breakfast, visit a local Kyrgyz carpet craft shop. This unique shop, powered by the region’s women’s community, offers valuable items such as national felt carpets, wool shawls, souvenirs, and antiques. Guests will have the opportunity to participate in making a felt carpet “shyrdak.” The journey then continues to Bishkek, the capital city of Kyrgyzstan (2.5 hours), with a visit to the historical Burana Tower (11th century) along the way.

Bishkek - Upon arrival in Bishkek, check into a hotel. Enjoy personal free time to explore the city’s central area. Tomorrow, the exploration of Bishkek continues!

BISHKEK - TASHKENT

Victory Square - The day begins with a city tour of Bishkek, visiting:
Victory Square: World War II monuments and eternal flame

Ala-Too Square - Kyrgyz National Opera and Ballet Theatre: showcasing beautiful Soviet architecture
Oak Park: an open-air art gallery
Ala Too Square: the city’s main square, featuring the largest flagpole with guards of honor, the Manas monument, the History Museum, and the White House

Erkindik Boulevard - Old Railway Station
“Erkindik” or “Freedom” Boulevard

Osh Bazaar - Kyrgyz State Philharmonic Square: Mayor’s office, International University
The legendary Osh Bazaar: a traditional open-air market

Tashkent - Afterwards, the journey continues to Tashkent, the capital city of Uzbekistan. Upon arrival, guests will be transferred to a hotel for free time to rest.

TASHKENT

Barak-Khan Madrassah - The day is dedicated to exploring Tashkent, beginning with a visit to the enchanting Old Tashkent. Step back in time to admire architectural gems such as:
Barak-Khan Madrasah and Tillya Sheikh Mosque in Hast Imam Square

Chorsu Bazaar - The Library of Eastern Manuscripts, home to centuries-old texts
Chorsu Bazaar
Afterwards, take a metro ride to explore the modern heart of the city:

Amir Timur Museum - Monument of Courage
Independence Square
Residence of Romanov: the exiled grandson of Russian Emperor Nikolai I
Opera and Ballet Theatre
Amir Timur Square: named after the legendary conqueror
Enjoy personal free time in the evening.

TASHKENT - DUSHANBE

Dushanbe - The journey continues from Tashkent to Dushanbe, the capital city of Tajikistan. The exploration of Uzbekistan will resume in a few days from Samarkand. Upon arrival in Dushanbe, the city tour begins:

Navruz Palace - Museum of Antiquities: featuring the Buddha in Nirvana position
Navruz Palace
Explore the main square, including the Monument Somoni, Park Rudaki, National Library, President Palace, and Flag Park

Hisor Fortress - Check into a hotel. In the late afternoon, visit the historical Hissar Fortress (30km outside the city). Return to Dushanbe for personal free time in the evening.

DUSHANBE - ISKANDARKUL - GAZZA VILLAGE

Iskanderkul - Departing Dushanbe, the journey heads to the renowned lakes of the Fan Mountains – Iskandarkul (130km). Enjoy the area and embark on a light hike to the “Fan Niagara” waterfall. Lunch follows. The journey continues to Gazza village, situated 1700m above sea level, with a population of about 200 people. Meet locals and learn about life in Tajik mountainous areas. The next stop is the alpine village of Bory, situated 1900m above sea level, with a population of about 1000 people living in 120 houses. Check into a guesthouse for dinner and free time.

GAZZA - PENJIKENT

Marguzor - After breakfast, the journey continues to the majestic Marguzor Lakes (70km). Explore the 7 lakes of Marguzor. Lunch follows.

Panjakent - The journey then proceeds to Penjikent town. Check into a hotel and enjoy a quick introduction to the town, followed by dinner at the national teahouse ‘Sayohat’. Personal free time follows.

PENJIKENT - SAMARKAND

Samarkand - The journey returns to Uzbekistan via the land border, continuing the exploration from Samarkand city. In the morning, the journey heads towards the Tajik-Uzbek border, crossing it and driving to Samarkand (60km). Immerse in Samarkand’s heritage immediately:

Registan - Visit the Gur-Emir Mausoleum and tombs of the Timurid dynasty
Registan Square: the heart of Samarkand
Siyab Bazaar: an open-air market
Lunch break at a national restaurant, featuring the legendary Samarkand Plov. Continue the city tour:

Bibi Khanym Mosque - Bibi-Khanym Palace (15th century)
Ulugbek Observatory: dedicated to the famous astronomer and grandson of Tamerlane
Shahi – Zinda architectural complex
Check into a hotel. Enjoy personal free time and have a pleasant evening!

SAMARKAND - BUKHARA

Bukhara - After breakfast, the journey continues from Samarkand to Bukhara (2 hours). Upon arrival, the city tour of Bukhara begins:

Chor-Minor - Visit the Kalyan Minaret, also known as the Tower of Death
Chor Minor: “Four Minarets” in Farsi
Lyabi Hauz area
Lunch break at a national restaurant. Continue the Bukhara tour:

Lyab-i-Hauz - Explore the Ark Citadel, a massive fortress
Visit the trading domes of Bukhara
Check into a hotel. Enjoy personal free time in the evening.

BUKHARA - KHIVA

Khiva - Today involves a long drive from Bukhara to Khiva (440km), as it is one of the few ways to reach the destination. A lunch break is included along the way. Upon arrival in Khiva, check into a hotel and enjoy free time for rest and an evening walk. Tomorrow, the detailed exploration of Khiva begins.

KHIVA

Ota Darvoza - The day is dedicated to exploring Khiva, starting with:
Ota Darvoza (West Gate): the main entrance to Itchan Kala

Citadel Kunya-ark - Visit the Kunya-Ark Fortress, the former residence of Khiva’s rulers
Explore the Mohammed Amin Khan Madrasah, featuring a museum inside
Kalta Minor Minaret
Lunch at a local restaurant. Continue the tour:

Islam Khodja Complex - Visit the Juma Mosque, known for its unique wooden columns and a roof dating back to the 10th century
Explore the Islam Khodja Complex, which includes the highest minaret in Khiva
Visit the Tosh Hovli Palace, renowned for its intricate tile work and beautiful courtyards
Explore the Pahlavon Mahmud Mausoleum, dedicated to the legendary poet, philosopher, and wrestler
The city tour concludes, allowing guests to spend the evening relaxing. (Consider watching the sunset from the top of the Itchan Kala Walls and enjoying dinner with a view).

KHIVA - DARVAZA

Darvaza Gas Crater - The next exciting chapter of the journey begins with entry into Turkmenistan! After breakfast, the journey heads to the “Dashoguz” border point (1 hour from Khiva). After crossing the border control and obtaining Turkmen visas, the journey continues through Turkmenistan’s legendary desert landscapes (5 hours) towards its most famous landmark, Darvaza, a natural burning gas crater (often referred to as the “Gates of Hell”). Lunch is provided en route. Upon arrival at Darvaza, check into a yurt camp. Enjoy free time to view the burning crater, take photos, and soak in the otherworldly atmosphere at sunset. Dinner is served at the camp, with an overnight stay in yurts.

DARVAZA - ASHGABAT

Ashgabat - After sunrise, enjoy some additional free time to take in the scenes of Darvaza. The journey then sets off for Ashgabat, the capital of Turkmenistan, known as the white city (3 hours). Lunch is provided en route. Upon arrival, check into a hotel and enjoy a group walk in the evening. Dinner is at a restaurant. Tomorrow, the detailed exploration of Ashgabat continues.

ASHGABAT

ASHGABAT - MARY - MERV

Mary - After breakfast, the journey continues to the historical town of Mary (3 hours). Upon arrival, enjoy a short tour of Mary, followed by lunch at a restaurant.

Merv - The journey then proceeds to the ancient historical landmark of Merv (30 minutes away), dating back to at least the 6th century BCE. Merv was a significant center on the Great Silk Road, serving as a major hub for trade and culture between China, Central Asia, and the Middle East. Explore the area and discover numerous ancient structures, including city walls, palaces, mosques, mausoleums, and fortresses. Return to Mary for hotel check-in and free time for rest. Dinner is at a restaurant.

MARY - ASHGABAT

Ashgabat - After breakfast, enjoy some free time to explore the local bazaar (open-air market) in Mary. The journey then returns to Ashgabat, with lunch provided en route. Upon arrival in the capital, check into the hotel and enjoy free time for rest. An evening group walk and a farewell dinner at a restaurant follow. The next morning, guests will be transported to Ashgabat airport for their flight home, with daily direct departures to Istanbul and Dubai (check the schedule for direct flights to Kuala Lumpur, Seoul, London, Frankfurt, Milan, Abu Dhabi).

• Breakfast
• Lunch
• Dinner

Have you always dreamed of exploring Central Asia? Now is the time to make those dreams a reality! No kidding, an extraordinary travel experience awaits you…

5 STANS: Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, and Turkmenistan

Five countries – endless excitement! Spend an entire month immersed in awe-inspiring experiences and thrilling activities.

This adventure is perfectly balanced and optimized for a vibrant yet comfortable pace.

Explore 32 destinations and cover over 6000 kilometers.

It’s all ready for you! Enjoy…

During this once-in-a-lifetime journey, you’ll engage in a variety of authentic Central Asian activities:

• Hiking in the legendary Tian Shan mountains
• Horseback riding
• Staying in traditional yurts
• Visiting Silk Road cities
• Savoring national cuisines
• Meeting local artisans who bring centuries-old traditions to life, and so much more!

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.