This was a trip full of variety and dramatic scenery, from the surreal Ashgabat, the amazing Darvaza crater, the beautiful mosques and madrasahs of Samarkand and Bukhara to the truly majestic and ever changing scenery of the Kyrgyzstan mountains. Each of the 5 countries had its own unique character. There are some long journeys but they are full of continuing interest with lots of worthwhile stops on route. 99% of the accommodation was very comfortable, spacious and spotlessly clean.
Local culture
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Accommodation
Hotel, Guest House
Age Range
16-99 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Ashgabat, Almaty, Samarkand, Pen
Ashgabat, Almaty, Samarkand, Penjikent, Khujand, Jalal Abad, Arslanbob, Son Kul Lake, Issyk-Kul, Karakol, Dashoguz, Khiva, Bukhara
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?
Cultural, religious and historic sites
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Embark on a captivating journey through the heart of Central Asia, exploring the cultural treasures of Uzbekistan and Turkmenistan. Your adventure begins in Tashkent, the dynamic capital of Uzbekistan, where the spiritual serenity of the Khast-Imam Complex, the vibrant lanes of Chorsu Bazaar, and the elegance of Navoi Theater Square set the tone. Escape into nature with a scenic excursion to Ugam-Chatkal National Park, nestled in the Tian Shan mountains. Next, travel to the legendary city of Samarkand, where history comes alive at the grand Registan Square, the intricately tiled Gur Emir Mausoleum, and the bustling Siyab Bazaar. Continue through the sweeping landscapes of the Kyzylkum Desert to reach Bukhara, a city that feels frozen in time. Here, explore the tranquil Lyabi-Hauz Ensemble, the towering Poi-Kalon Minaret, and the ancient Ark Fortress, once the seat of Bukhara’s emirs. In Khiva, walk through the living museum of Ichan-Kala, admiring architectural masterpieces like the Muhammad Aminkhana Madrasah and the colorful, unfinished Kalta Minor Minaret. Cross into Turkmenistan and head to Dashoguz, your gateway to the ancient Silk Road city of Koneurgench. Discover its timeless monuments, including the Sultan Tekesh Mausoleum, the Mausoleum of Najmitdin Kubra, and Sultan Ali’s tomb. A short domestic flight brings you to Ashgabat, Turkmenistan’s gleaming capital, where you’ll explore the UNESCO-listed ruins of Nisa, the Ottoman-inspired Ertugrul Gazi Mosque, and the grand Turkmenbashy Ruhy Mosque—one of Central Asia’s largest. Continue to the ancient oasis of Merv, once one of the world’s greatest cities. Marvel at the soaring Sultan Sanjar Mausoleum, the mysterious Kizkala towers, and the remnants of Erk Kala and Gayur Kala, echoing tales of dynasties past. Return to Ashgabat to delve deeper into Turkmen culture at the National Museum, and take in panoramic city views from the record-breaking Alem Ferris Wheel, the tallest enclosed Ferris wheel in the world. This immersive journey through Uzbekistan and Turkmenistan is a celebration of ancient civilizations, living traditions, and the enduring beauty of Central Asia’s soul-stirring landscapes.
Sightseeing Tours
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
