Journeys: Echoes of the Silk Road

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Carbon neutral

23 daysDuration

Small Group TourUsually 8-12 participants, maximum 18 travelers

16 peopleMaximum group size

12 - 100 yearsAge range for participants

EnglishGuide language

Moderate

Involves sustained activity requiring a reasonable level of fitness and endurance.

Starts

Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan

Ends

Ashgabat, Turkmenistan

Highlights

Discover the dynamic contrasts of Central Asia in Almaty Dushanbe Tashkent and Ashgabat.

Take in the surreal beauty of Kaindy Lake and the towering red rock walls of Charyn Canyon.

Explore the timeworn streets and ancient architecture of Bukhara and Khiva.

Connect with Kyrgyz nomads Kazakh farmers and Tajik bread makers for meaningful cultural encounters

Itinerary

Uncover the rich heritage of Central Asia on a journey through Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, and Turkmenistan — a region shaped for centuries by Silk Road trade, spiritual traditions, and sweeping cultural exchange. Wander the ancient streets of Khiva, Samarkand, and Bukhara, where history echoes through turquoise-tiled mosques and bustling bazaars. Marvel at natural wonders like Kaindy Lake’s sunken forest and the red rock cliffs of Charyn Canyon. Explore sacred sites and architectural marvels that reveal the region’s religious diversity and deep historical roots. Along the way, connect with nomadic herders in Kyrgyzstan, break bread with Tajik families, and experience the warmth of rural hospitality in Kazakhstan. This is your window into one of the most captivating, and often overlooked, corners of the world.

day 1 - BISHKEK

Arrive at any time. Arrival transfer is included.
This evening, gather for a group welcome meet-up before a delicious dinner at a traditional restaurant.

Meal:Dinner

Accomodation:Park Hotel Bishkek (or similar)

Included Activity:Welcome Moment - Meet Your Expedition Leader and Group Duration : 1.0 hr

day 2 - BISHKEK

After breakfast, explore Kyrgyzstan’s lively capital on a guided walking tour through Bishkek’s wide boulevards, leafy parks and Soviet-era architecture. Then dive deeper into the region’s past with a visit to the National History Museum, where exhibits trace the country’s nomadic roots and complex political evolution. This afternoon, enjoy free time to explore Bishkek on your own. Opt to venture into the nearby Ala Archa National Park for a scenic hike to the striking Broken Heart Stone, surrounded by alpine meadows and rugged mountain views. This evening, experience Kyrgyz hospitality firsthand over a traditional dinner hosted by a local family, –an opportunity to connect, share stories and learn more about daily life.

Meal:Breakfast and Dinner

Accomodation:Park Hotel Bishkek (or similar)

Included Activities:Bishkek City Tour Duration : 3.5 hr - 4.0 hr, National History Museum Guided Tour, Kyrgyz Family Meal

Optional Activities:Ala Archa National Park

day 3 - BISHKEK/ ISSYK KUL

Feel transported back in time with a visit to the Burana Tower, a remnant of the ancient Silk Road city of Balasagan, where you'll explore the on-site museum to learn about the region’s early civilization. Continue to Iskra Village for a special lunch with a local Dungan Family-descendants of Chinese Muslims who settled in Kyrgyzstan in the 19th century. Hear their stories and see their traditions through dress while sharing a home-cooked meal. This afternoon, journey along the northern shore of Issyk Kul Lake to the Cholpan Ata Petroglyphs, where a local historian– professor will guide you through the site’s ancient rock carvings and explain the rich symbolism behind them. As observed by National Geographic Explorer Paul Salopek in his “Out of Eden Walk” project, we'll be looking at Turkic-era petroglyphs dating back over 3,500 years ago. See images of mostly animals such as ibex and deer, but also depictions of archers and chariots.

Meal:Breakfast and Lunch

Accomodation:Altyn Bulak Lakeside Resort (or similar)

Transport:Private Vehicle Duration : 1.5 hr Distance : 65 km

Included Activities:Cholpon-Ata Petroglyphs with Local Historian and Professor, Iskra Village Dungan Family Lunch, Burana Tower Visit

day 4 - ISSYK KUL/ KARAKOL

Today starts at Reina Kench Farm, a family run place dedicated to preserving Kyrgyzstan's nomadic traditions and the ancient practice of Central Asian horse breeding. Learn how the family’s deep connection to the land and animals has influenced their way of life for generations. Afterwards, journey to Karakol where you’ll join a guided tour to discover the city’s unique blend of architecture and heritage, from the colourful Dungan Mosque, the ornate Russian Orthodox Church to the Przhevalsky Museum.

Meal:Breakfast and Lunch

Accomodation:Hotel Oimo Karakol (or similar)

Transport:Private Vehicle Duration : 3.5 hr Distance : 160 km

Included Activities:Reina Kench Horse Farm, Karakol City Tour, Przhevalsky Museum Visit

day 5 - KARAKOL

This morning, visit the G Adventures-supported organization, Ak Orgoo, to learn the traditional practice of yurt building from locals working to preserve and share their nomadic heritage. Enjoy a homemade lunch before continuing to the striking red rock formations of Jety-Oguz for a scenic hike to the Broken Heart, a site steeped in legend and framed by dramatic alpine landscapes. This evening, gather around the table with a Cossack family who will welcome you for dinner and a conversation about their ancestry, customs and resilience, giving you a deeper understanding of one of Central Asia’s lesser-known cultural groups.

Meal:Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Accomodation:Hotel Oimo Karakol (or similar)

Included Activities:Yurt Building Demonstration, Jety Oguz and the Broken Heart, Cossak Family Dinner

day 6 - KARAKOL/ SATY

After breakfast, cross the border into Kazakhstan’s wide open steppe and rugged mountain landscape. Pause for a scenic picnic lunch at Black Canyon. After arriving at Saty Village, climb into a 4x4 for an excursion to the surreal waters of Kaindy Lake. Here, a forest of submerged spruce trees rises eerily from the surface-an unforgettable and perfect place for a hike. This evening, connect with Kazakhstan’s rural life with dinner at a local family’s home. Share stories and a warm meal in this peaceful mountain community.

Meal:Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Accomodation:Hotel Kolsay Prestige (or similar)

Transport:Private Vehicle Duration : 2.0 hr Distance : 80 km

Included Activity:Kyrgyzstan - Kazakhstan Border Crossing

day 7 - SATY/ ALMATY

Head out for a visit to Charyn Canyon, known as the "Grand Canyon of Central Asia.. Walk through its towering red rock formations, sculpted over millions of years by wind and water. This natural wonder shows off Kazakhstan’s powerful geological forces. As mentioned in the National Geographic article by Jessica Vincent “Hiking Kazakhstan: a Day in Charyn Canyon National Park,” you’ll feel as though you're standing on the moon while equally feeling as though you are walking beneath giant skyscrapers of red rock. The afternoon will bring you to Almaty, which was the capital of Kazakhstan until 1997. Head out on an orientation walk then enjoy the rest of the day.

Meal:Breakfast and Lunch

Accomodation:Renion Park Hotel (or similar)

Transport:Private Vehicle Duration : 2.5 hr Distance : 140 km, Private Vehicle Duration : 4.0 hr Distance : 230 km

Included Activity:Charyn Canyon Visit

day 8 - ALMATY

Set out on a city tour of Almaty strolling through Republic Square, once the heart of Soviet power, then wander the tree-lined paths of Panfilov Park to visit the beautiful, all-wooden Ascension Cathedral. Then immerse yourself in the rhythm of daily life at the bustling Zeleny Bazaar, where vibrant stalls overflow with fragrant spices, bright produce and local delicacies. Afterwards, the afternoon is yours to explore on your own. Tonight, enjoy dinner and a show at a local restaurant.

Meal:Breakfast and Dinner

Accomodation:Renion Park Hotel (or similar)

Included Activity:Almaty City Tour Duration : 3.0 hr

Optional Activities:Zelyony Bazaar , Central State Museum of the Republic of Kazakhstan

day 9 - ALMATY/ DUSHANBE

A flight today brings you to Dushanbe, Tajikistan’s green capital where grand boulevards, colorful markets and Soviet-Era monuments reflect a complex and fascinating history. The city of Dushanbe was shaped by centuries of Silk Road exchange and rich Persian influence. See the area around your hotel to get your footing in the city, then enjoy a traditional folklore show over dinner.

Meal:Breakfast and Dinner

Accomodation:The Rumi Hotel (or similar)

Transport:Plane Duration : 1.5 hr

Included Activity:Dushanbe Orientation Walk

day 10 - DUSHANBE

Dive into the history and culture of Tajikistan on a guided tour of Dushanbe. Begin at Somoni Square, a proud symbol of national identity, then marvel at the intricate design and craftsmanship of Navruz Palace. Visit the city’s largest mosque which reveals the country’s spiritual traditions. Savour a hearty lunch of plov, the national dish often prepared for guests and celebrations. This afternoon, venture beyond the city to Hisor Fortress with its ancient gates and centuries-old stone walls, which were a resting place for Silk Road travellers.

Meal:Breakfast and Lunch

Accomodation:The Rumi Hotel (or similar)

Included Activities:Guided City Tour of Dushanbe, Hisor Fortress

day 11 - DUSHANBE

Begin the Day at the National Museum of Antiquities of Tajikistan, home to a remarkable collection of artifacts that trace the region’s ancient civilization. Join a local archaeologist for a special guided visit, delving into the history of Buddhism in Central Asia and its influence along the Silk Road. Later, feel welcomed in a local Tajik home for a hands-on bread-making experience of “non,” the famous Tajik round, golden flatbread.

Meal:Breakfast and Lunch

Accomodation:The Rumi Hotel (or similar)

Included Activities:National Museum of Antiquities of Tajikistan, Tajik Almosi Village Visit and Bread Making

day 12 - DUSHANBE/ TASHKENT

Fly to Uzbekistan with time to uncover Tashkent’s Soviet legacy on a guided tour in the afternoon. Explore Tashkent’s underground metro, said to be the most beautiful in the world as it doubles as an art gallery. Visit Kosmonaut Square, a tribute to the Soviet space program, and see other architectural wonders like the Uzbekistan Hotel and Zhemchug Resident Complex. Finish at the Monument of Courage, a tribute to the rebuilding of the city after a devastating earthquake. This evening, gather for a farewell dinner.

Meal:Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Accomodation:Mir Luxe Plaza Hotel (or similar)

Transport:Plane Duration : 1.15 hr Distance : 350 km

Included Activity:Guided City Tour of Tashkent

day 13 - Tashkent

Visit the fascinating Institute of the Sun, a unique research centre where science, architecture and spirituality intersect. Here you’ll learn about its design and role in Uzbekistan’s scientific history. Relish the chance to see more of Tashkent on your own during a free afternoon. Explore places like Tashkent TV Tower or browse locally made crafts at the Human House concept store, a place where multiple local artists have a space to show off their contemporary designs. Gather this evening for a festive three-course meal paired with a lively folk show that brings Uzbekistan’s musical and dance traditions to life.

Meal:Breakfast and Dinner

Accomodation:Mir Luxe Plaza Hotel (or similar)

Included Activity:Institute of Sun Visit

Optional Activities:Tashkent TV Tower , Human House

day 14 - TASHKENT

Set out on a guided tour of the State History Museum of Uzbekistan, where ancient artifacts and exhibits trace the region’s evolution–from early civilization to Silk Road empires, then Soviet rule. After, step into the spiritual heart of the city at the Religious Center of Tashkent, home to the beautifully restored Hasti Imam complex and the revered Museum of the Koran to see one of the world’s oldest Qurans. Then, wander through the vibrant lanes of Chorsu Bazaar, where local life rushes around the mounds of spices, fresh produce and handwoven goods. At the bazaar, sample honim, a beloved Uzbek dish of steamed dough filled with spiced vegetables.

Meal:Breakfast and Lunch

Accomodation:Mir Luxe Plaza Hotel (or similar)

Included Activities:Chorsu Bazaar, Religious Centre of Tashkent, State History Museum of Uzbekistan

day 15 - TASHKENT/ SAMARKAND

Travel this morning through the Uzbek desert on a high-speed train to Samarkand–one of the Silk Road’s most legendary cities. Upon arrival, take a guided tour beginning at Ulugbek Observatory. We’ll hear the story of its namesake, the 15th-century astronomer and ruler who mapped the stars with astonishing precision, leaving behind one of the Islamic world’s most important scientific legacies. Continue to the Afrosiob Museum, positioned on ancient Samarkand. Here, we’ll meet with the head archeologist who will share insights into the city’s ongoing excavations. This evening, join a local family to try the nation’s signature rice pilaf dish, plov. As you learn how the meal is prepared, the family will also explain its symbolism.

Meal:Breakfast and Dinner

Accomodation:Kosh Havuz Boutique Hotel (or similar)

Transport:Train Duration : 2.5 hr Distance : 265 km

Included Activities:Guided Tour of Samarkand, Archeologist Guided Afrasiab Museum Visit, Plov Cooking Class and Dinner Duration : 2.5 hr

day 16 - SAMARKAND

Continue exploring Samarkand with a guided visit to two of the city’s most iconic landmarks: Guri Amir Mausoleum, the resting place of Timur, the great conqueror, and the beautiful Registan Square, where madrasas showcase some of the finest Islamic architecture in the world. The afternoon is yours to explore this amazing city at your own pace. In Samarkand, your options for cultural exploration are endless. Maybe head to the peaceful Konigil Village to visit the Meros Paper Mill, where artisans use traditional, centuries-old silk paper making techniques. Or take a trip out to the Mausoleum of St Daniel. Wander the colorful stalls of Siyab Bazaar or this evening, experience a performance at the El Merosi Theatre of Historical Costumes, where centuries of Uzbek dress and dance come to life.

Meal:Breakfast

Accomodation:Kosh Havuz Boutique Hotel (or similar)

Included Activities:Guri Amir Mausoleum Visit Duration : 1.0 hr, Registan Visit Duration : 2.0 hr

Optional Activities:Konigil Village and Silk Paper Making Workshop , Tomb of the Old Testament Prophet Daniel Visit Enjoy a visit to the Tomb of the Old Testament Prophet Daniel, famous for the Biblical story of Daniel and the lions. A legend says that his body grows by half an inch every year!, El Merosi Historic Theratre

day 17 - SAMARKAND/ BUKHARA

Climb aboard the high-speed train as we travel to the UNESCO World Heritage destination, Bukhara. This city is known as one of the most culturally rich and ancient places along the Silk Road and was a battle zone for conquerors like Genghis Khan, the British Empire and Russian Bolshevik troops. Head into the Old Town, where over 2,500 years of history thrive to this day. Start at Ismail Samanid Mausoleum, an Uzbek icon from the 10th century and one of the oldest Islamic monuments in all of Central Asia. The next stop is Ark Fortress, a towering symbol of Bukhara’s political and spiritual power. End the tour at the Kalyan Minaret, a nearly 900-year-old brickmade watchtower. This evening, we head to a local restaurant to learn to make the famous Uzbek dumplings, manti.

Meal:Breakfast and Dinner

Accomodation:Hotel Shahriston Plaza (or similar)

Transport:Train Duration : 1.75 hr

Included Activities:Bukhara Orientation Walk, Manti Making

day 18 - BUKHARA

Today begins with a visit to the Naqshbandi Mausoleum, a place dedicated to Central Asia’s most revered Sufi scholars and a historic pilgrimage site. Meet with a local expert in Sufism to learn about its spiritual philosophy and lasting influence on the region’s culture and identity. Continue to the opulent Sitorai Mokhi Khosa, once the summer palace of the last Emir of Bukhara, now a striking display of Russian and Persian architecture. The afternoon is free to explore the city on your own. Choose to visit an 18th-century hammam or do some shopping along the ancient trading domes of the old Caravanserai. This evening, gather in the stunning Madrasah Nadir Devon Begi for a traditional dinner and a folklore show that puts Uzbek heritage on full display.

Meal:Breakfast and Dinner

Accomodation:Hotel Shahriston Plaza (or similar)

Included Activities:Nodir Devonbegi Madrasah Monument Dinner, Naqshbandi Mausoleum Sufism Experience, Sitorai Mokhi Khosa

Optional Activities:Bukhara Hammam Visit

day 19 - BUKHARA/ KHIVA

Drive through the Kyzylkum desert toward the ancient city of Khiva. See the everchanging sand dunes, once crossed by travellers on the Silk Road carrying goods from the far corners of the world. Gaze upon the distant mountain peaks before arriving at the ancient walled city of Khiva, a living museum, with some of the best-preserved Islamic architecture in the world.

Meal:Breakfast and Lunch

Accomodation:Hotel Bankir Khiva (or similar)

Transport:Private Vehicle Duration : 6.5 hr Distance : 450 km

Included Activity:Khiva Orientation Walk

day 20 - KHIVA

Explore Khiva, an ornate and beautiful ancient city that makes you feel like you’ve been transported back in time to the Silk Road over 2,500 years ago. Within the Ichan-Qala, the inner walled town of Khiva, you’ll be immersed in a kaleidoscope of colourful alleyways, tiled mosques, historic madrasas and towering minarets. Khiva is a town so steeped in preservation as Sophie Ibbotson explains in her “6 reasons to visit Khiva, the tourist capital of the Islamic world for 2024” National Geographic article. Together we’ll wander its paths, hearing the stories of traders, scholars and historic explorers and adventurers. This evening, explore Khiva culture at a Khorezmian dinner celebrating the region's historic music and dance.

Meal:Breakfast and Dinner

Accomodation:Hotel Bankir Khiva (or similar)

Included Activities:Khorezmian Music and Dance Show, Khiva Ancient City Exploration Duration : 4.0 hr

Optional Activities:Islam Khoja Minaret , Ichan-Qala (Itchan Kala) Visit

day 21 - KHIVA/ ASHGABAT

This morning, cross the border into Turkmenistan, a unique country rich with historic traditions still alive to this day. Our first stop is at the beautiful and haunting ruins of Kunya Urgench. Once a rich and lively center for Islamic scholars, it is now full of crumbling minarets, sacred tombs and mausoleums. After a visit at this UNESCO World Heritage Site, continue to Dashguz to board an evening flight to Ashgabat, Turkmenistan’s capital city.

Meal:Breakfast and Lunch

Transport:Private Vehicle Duration : 1.25 hr Distance : 40 km, Private Vehicle Duration : 2.5 hr Distance : 110 km, Private Vehicle Duration : 2.0 hr Distance : 100 km, Plane Duration : 1.0 hr Distance : 280 km

Included Activities:Border Crossing (Uzbekistan to Turkmenistan), Kunya-Urgench City Visit Duration : 2.0 hr - 2.5 hr

day 22 - ASHGABAT

Head out to Old Nisa, the former capital of the Parthian Empire from 200 BCE.. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is an important archaeological location full of ruins and well-preserved artifacts. Take in the remnants of mudbrick royal complexes and fortresses through remains of a civilization that once rivaled Rome. Fast forward from the past to the present as we head to the futuristic Alem Centre, a chance to admire its incredible architecture. This evening, gather for a farewell dinner in the city and reminisce about the incredible journey we’ve had through the Stans.

Meal:Breakfast and Dinner

Included Activities:Ashgabat City Tour Duration : 5.0 hr, Ancient Settlement of Nisa

Optional Activities:Carpet Museum

day 23 - ASHGABAT

Depart at any time.

Meal:Breakfast

Transport:Departure Transfer

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What's Included

Accommodation

Hotels (22 nts)

Meals

22 breakfasts, 11 lunches, 13 dinners
Note: Allow USD505-660 for meals not included.

Transport

Private Vehicle, Plane, Metro, Walking, Train.All transport between destinations and to/from included activities

Guide

National Geographic Expedition Leader

Included activities

Your Journeys Highlight Moment: Cholpon-Ata Petroglyphs with Local Historian and Professor, Cholpon-AtaYour Journeys Highlight Moment: Reina Kench Horse Farm, KarakolYour Journeys Highlight Moment: Tajik Almosi Village Visit and Bread Making, DushanbeYour Journeys Highlight Moment: Archeologist Guided Afrasiab Museum Visit, SamarkandYour Journeys Highlight Moment: Naqshbandi Mausoleum Sufism Experience, BukharaYour G for Good Moment: Yurt Building Demonstration, BarskoonYour Welcome Moment: Welcome Moment - Meet Your Expedition Leader and GroupYour Local Living Moment: Plov Cooking Class and Dinner, SamarkandYour Hands-On Moment: Manti Making, BukharaArrival TransferBishkek City TourNational History Museum Guided TourFree time in BishkekKyrgyz Family MealBurana Tower VisitIskra Village Dungan Family LunchCholpon-Ata PetroglyphsKyrgyz Horse FarmKarakol City TourPrzhevalsky MuseumYurt Building WorkshopJety Oguz and the Broken HeartCossak Family DinnerCharyn Canyon VisitAlmaty City TourFree time in AlmatyDushanbe Orientation WalkGuided City Tour of DushanbeHisor FortressNational Museum of Antiquities of TajikistanTajik Almosi Village Visit and Bread MakingTajik Almosi Village Visit and Bread MakingState History Museum of UzbekistanReligious Center of TashkentChorsu BazaarGuided Tour of SamarkandArcheologist Guided Afrasiab Museum VisitPlov Cooking Demonstration and DinnerGuri Amir Mausoleum VisitRegistan VisitFree time in SamarkandBukhara Orientation WalkManti MakingNaqshbandi Mausoleum Sufism ExperienceSitorai Mokhi KhosaFree time in BukharaNodir Devonbegi Madrasah Monument DinnerKhiva Orientation WalkKhiva Ancient City ExplorationFree time in KhivaKhorezmian Music and Dance ShowKunya-Urgench City VisitAncient Settlement of NisaAshgabat City TourInternal flights

What's Excluded

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Highlights

Itinerary

day 1 - BISHKEK

day 2 - BISHKEK

day 3 - BISHKEK/ ISSYK KUL

day 4 - ISSYK KUL/ KARAKOL

day 5 - KARAKOL

day 6 - KARAKOL/ SATY

day 7 - SATY/ ALMATY

day 8 - ALMATY

day 9 - ALMATY/ DUSHANBE

day 10 - DUSHANBE

day 11 - DUSHANBE

day 12 - DUSHANBE/ TASHKENT

day 13 - Tashkent

day 14 - TASHKENT

day 15 - TASHKENT/ SAMARKAND

day 16 - SAMARKAND

day 17 - SAMARKAND/ BUKHARA

day 18 - BUKHARA

day 19 - BUKHARA/ KHIVA

day 20 - KHIVA

day 21 - KHIVA/ ASHGABAT

day 22 - ASHGABAT

day 23 - ASHGABAT

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Itinerary

day 1 - BISHKEK

day 2 - BISHKEK

day 3 - BISHKEK/ ISSYK KUL

day 4 - ISSYK KUL/ KARAKOL

day 5 - KARAKOL

day 6 - KARAKOL/ SATY

day 7 - SATY/ ALMATY

day 8 - ALMATY

day 9 - ALMATY/ DUSHANBE

day 10 - DUSHANBE

day 11 - DUSHANBE

day 12 - DUSHANBE/ TASHKENT

day 13 - Tashkent