Simple stays with essential amenities. Typically guesthouses, hostels or hotels rated below 3 stars — clean, no-frills, and great for value-conscious travelers.
Comfortable and reliable 3-star stays. Expect private rooms, en-suite bathrooms, and solid amenities — a great balance between comfort and cost.
Upscale 4-5 star hotels and lodges. Enjoy high-end service, refined comfort, and premium locations — ideal for travelers seeking extra indulgence.
Overall, this was an excellent trip and one of the best I have done with Explore over very many years. It was certainly helped by having a good, small group and two superb leaders (one in each country), who were extremely knowledgeable and very personable. The local guides were also outstanding. The sights were extraordinary (the Islamic architecture is simply breath-taking), the people were lovely and I did not mind the long drives (on spacious air conditioned coaches) or the 9.5 hour train journey. to Samarkand As expected, the trip’s pace was full-on. As a group we took advantage of the optional extras offered and I would recommend that others seriously consider those too, especially the spectacular Uzbek music and dance show at the Grand Hall in Samarkand. Hotel accommodation was better than I had expected and generally pretty good. If I have a criticism it is that the trip should perhaps be a day longer. It would have been nice to have spent more time in Khiva and the last day in Tashkent was too long, tiring and rushed. Thankfully, I had booked an extra day in the city, although others had early morning flights. While Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan are very different, I much preferred the time we spent in the latter.
Cultural, religious and historic sites
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
A fantastic trip with an opportunity to see the best of both Uzbekistan and Tajikistan. Our guide in Uzbekistan, Dilshod, was wonderful and really made our trip. He was knowledgeable, enthusiastic and really wanted us to see as much as possible. We had fabulous meals and stayed in some great hotels. We can't wait to go back and see more.
Adventure
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Step off the tourist map and into the heart of Central Asia with the "Tashkent to Ashgabat" tour—a moderately active, 11-day journey through Uzbekistan and Turkmenistan. Designed for adventurous explorers, this small group trip guides you from the vibrant avenues of Tashkent to the surreal landscapes of Ashgabat, connecting ancient Silk Road cities and the mysterious deserts in between.
Wander Khiva’s technicolored minarets at sunset, experience the daily rhythms of rural Turkmen life with a mountain village stay, and visit a local horse breeder to discover the world-renowned Akhal-Teke horses. Delve into Silk Road history as you traverse the ruins of Merv, and marvel at the fiery "Gates of Hell" crater with an unforgettable sunset visit.
Your journey concludes in Ashgabat, a city where Soviet legacy and futuristic ambition collide in dazzling style. Throughout, local guides offer rich insights, ensuring you experience authentic hospitality and hidden stories.
What sets this trip apart? Its unique blend of historical intrigue, cultural immersion, and access to remote, rarely-visited sites—perfect for travelers who seek discovery far beyond the ordinary tourist trail.
Cultural, religious and historic sites
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Central Asia’s ancient wonders and stark beauty await on the "Bishkek to Ashgabat" tour—a 27-day overland city sightseeing journey weaving through Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan, and Turkmenistan. Traverse tranquil Son-Kol Lake, spot wildlife near Chychkan Gorge, and summit Sulumain-too Mountain in Osh, immersing yourself in landscapes as diverse as they are awe-inspiring.
Explore the blue-tiled mosques and historic streets of Samarkand, then journey into Turkmenistan for otherworldly moments at the ‘Gates of Hell’ and futuristic Ashgabat. Guided by local experts, you’ll uncover relics of the Silk Road, marvel at ancient cities, and meet welcoming communities that make the region unforgettable.
The defining feature of this trip is its rare, comprehensive access to a region few travelers know—uniting history, culture, and natural splendor over nearly a month. For those seeking a truly off-the-beaten-path adventure, this tour package opens the door to Central Asia’s most intriguing treasures.
City sightseeing
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Accommodation
Hotel, Guest House, Home-stay
Age Range
15-99 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Ashgabat, Bishkek, Tashkent, Tas
Ashgabat, Bishkek, Tashkent, Tashkent, Bukhara, Samarkand, Khiva, Darvaza, Nohur, Mary, Issyk-Kul Lake, Song-Kol Lake, Kyzyl-Oi, Toktogul, Osh
Traverse the storied Silk Road and the breathtaking landscapes of Central Asia on the "Premium Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan" tour—an expertly guided, nine-day exploration that begins and ends in Almaty. Tailored for experienced travelers and seniors, this moderate-activity journey balances city exploration with time in nature.
Highlights include hikes through Sharyn Canyon, Skazka Canyon, and the picturesque Jety Oguz Valley, where stunning scenery unfolds at every turn. Spend a night in a traditional yurt camp beside the immense Issyk Kul lake, learning how these dwellings are built using age-old techniques. Immerse yourself in the local culture through culinary experiences, from a family-owned winery visit to a masterclass with a Dungan family.
The real USP of this trip is its deep cultural immersion—connecting with local families, artisans, and guides for an authentic window into Central Asian life. With all logistics covered and a knowledgeable leader by your side, this tour package promises a sophisticated adventure for those eager to engage with history, food, and landscapes far from the ordinary.
Explorer
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Step into the storied world of the Silk Road with the Premium Central Asia tour, an 18-day adventure from Tashkent to Almaty. Tailored for experienced travelers and seniors seeking both comfort and discovery, this trip weaves through Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, and Kyrgyzstan, exploring Tashkent’s cosmopolitan flair, Samarkand’s majestic architecture, Bukhara’s holy sites, and Khiva’s ancient monuments. Enjoy hands-on cultural experiences—a cooking class with a local family, a stay in a yurt by Lake Issyk Kul, winery tastings, and masterclasses in Dungan cuisine. Hike the scenic canyons and valleys, visit traditional villages, and immerse yourself in the daily life and history of Central Asia. The USP: a blend of premium accommodations and authentic local interaction, delivering an insightful, in-depth journey along the legendary Silk Road.
Explorer
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers