best time to visit 5 stans

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When is the Best Time to Visit the Stans? Your Guide to Travel Seasons in Central Asia

Central Asia’s Stans – Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and Turkmenistan – are a fascinating destination, rich in culture, history, and natural beauty. But with their diverse climate and landscapes, choosing the best time to visit can be challenging. In this article, we’ll guide you through the travel seasons in the Stans and help you plan your trip with Minzifa Travel .

Understanding the Climate in the Stans

The Stans have a continental climate, with hot summers and cold winters. The weather can vary significantly between the Stans due to differences in altitude, proximity to mountains, and distance from the sea. The region’s climate is also influenced by the monsoon season, which brings rain and cooler temperatures from mid-June to mid-September.

High Season vs. Low Season: What to Expect

The high season in the Stans is from May to October when the weather is warm and dry. This is the best time to visit if you want to explore the region’s natural beauty and outdoor activities. During this period, the Stans are bustling with tourists, and popular attractions can be crowded.

The low season in the Stans is from November to April when the weather is cold and dry. This is the best time to visit if you want to avoid the crowds and experience the Stans’ cultural and historical sites. During this period, the Stans are quieter, and you’ll have more opportunities to interact with locals.

Best Time to Visit Each Stan

The best time to visit Uzbekistan is from April to June and September to November when the weather is mild and dry.

The best time to visit Kazakhstan is from May to September when the weather is warm and dry.

The best time to visit Kyrgyzstan is from June to September when the weather is warm and dry.

The best time to visit Tajikistan is from April to June and September to November when the weather is mild and dry.

Turkmenistan

The best time to visit Turkmenistan is from March to May and September to November when the weather is mild and dry.

Tips for Planning Your Trip

Consider your interests and activities.

Choose the best time to visit based on your interests and activities. If you’re interested in outdoor activities, visit during the high season. If you’re interested in cultural and historical sites, visit during the low season.

Be Prepared for Temperature Fluctuations

Bring appropriate clothing for the temperature fluctuations that can occur during the day and night.

Book in Advance

To ensure the best travel experience, book your accommodation, transportation, and tours in advance, especially during the high season.

In conclusion, the Stans offer unique and diverse travel experiences all year round. Understanding the climate and travel seasons in each Stan can help you plan your trip to make the most of your visit. With Minzifa Travel’s guide, you can confidently choose the best time to visit each Stan and create unforgettable memories.

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Visiting the Stan Countries: The Five Stans of Central Asia

• 2nd June 2022
• 7 minute read

Visiting the Stan countries isn’t on most people’s agenda – or even their radar! With this in mind, you are already a leading legend! Have you been dealt with a group of baffled expressions on your friends or family’s faces once you’ve announced your wish to travel to the faraway region? Needless to say, you’re in a safe space here. This corner of the internet is where the writer and readers are in agreement that the Central Asian countries will be an incredible part of the world to visit, travel and explore.

Table of Contents

What are the 5 stan countries, when is the best time to visit the stans, be prepared with cash, turkmenistan, food culture in the stans, how to travel around the stans, save this on pinterest.

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What to Know Before Travelling the Stan Countries

The five Central Asian countries are often referred to collectively as the ‘Stans’… After all, when they are listed together they can be quite a mouthful . Each country has retained their own language, currency and customs, so travelling throughout the region country-by-country can pose various confusions and challenges from border to border.

The ‘Stans’ include Kazakhstan, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan – without mentioning the additional Stans: Afghanistan and Pakistan (although they are otherwise considered to be Southern Asia, as opposed to Central Asia) .

These five countries are within such close proximity that travelling the entire region may often be more logical than completing each country separately trip-by-trip. That being the case, visiting the Stan countries is an excellent choice for any ambitious globetrotter that is seeking to travel to as many countries as possible.

In a nutshell, May to June or September would be the best period to plan your visit to the Stans. It would be during this time that the mountains are still picturesque with snow caps. Plus, the temperatures will be comfortable for exploring and sightseeing. If you were to delay your trip to July and August, then the temperatures have the potential to become extremely hot. Any earlier in the year, then the days could become clouded over with the addition of rainfall.

Overall, Central Asia is a cash-based economy. You can expect to find very few ATMs out with large cities. Restaurants, bars, shops, hostels and hotels rarely accept credit cards. Therefore, you should bring the entire sum of money that you believe you’ll spend on your trip.

Each of the five Central Asian Stans operates with a different currency. US Dollars are the best alternative currency to exchange or stow away as an emergency reserve.

What to Expect from a Trip to the Stans

The vastness of Kazakhstan is somewhat difficult to comprehend. If you are flying from one side to the other, the expanse of the incredible landscapes will blow your mind. This is the world’s ninth largest country, and without a huge population to match, that’s a whole lot of wilderness.

Kazakhstan borders the south of Russia. The country extends from the Caspian Sea to the Altai Mountains whilst also bordering China, Kyrgyzstan, Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan. Until 1991, Kazakhstan was a republic of the Soviet Union.

Your time in Kazakhstan will likely be centred around Almaty, the former capital and largest city near the Kyrgyzstan border. Take your time to enjoy Almaty’s amenities as the city is one of the most modern and developed economies in Central Asia. At the same time, don’t forget to escape and explore the surrounding beauty. The Big Almaty Lake and Charyn Canyon are all but a day trip away from the city.

General Information

Capital:  Nur-Sultan

Notable Cities & Towns:   Almaty , Shymkent

Main Airports: Almaty, Astana, Aktau

Currency:  Kazakhstani Tenge (KZT)

Language: Kazakh, Russian

The countryside of Kyrgyzstan beckons as the country is a landlocked gem of glacial lakes, alpine forests and dramatic snow-capped peaks. Visitors will be inspired to hike, camp or horse trek through the stunning scenery to experience the traditional nomadic lifestyle and culture.

Kyrgyzstan is a land of nomads who still value their centuries-old culture and traditions. Witnessing this way of life is not for the faint-hearted with local sports and activities including eagle-hunting and Kok Boru (which is a national game whereby a group of horsemen toss a dead goat carcass between two goals).

Capital:  Bishkek

Notable Cities & Towns:  Osh, Karakol, Jalalabad

Main Airports: Bishkek, Osh

Currency:  Kyrgyz Som (KGS)

Language: Kyrgyz, Russian

Tajikistan is a popular destination for highland tourism and alpinism. The scenery is spectacular with high peaks, grassy meadows, sketchy roads and some of the cleanest rivers.

In terms of size, Tajikistan encompasses the least amount of land among the five Central Asian states with a total area of 143.1 thousand square kilometres. However, in terms of elevation, Tajikistan ranks at the top by having the most and highest mountains than any other country in the region.

Capital:  Dushanbe

Notable Cities & Towns:  Murghab, Khujand, Khorog

Main Airports: Dushanbe, Khudzhand

Currency:  Tajikistani Somoni (TJS)

Language: Tajik

Visit Turkmenistan for an even more unique experience; a country notorious for instituting some bizarre laws. There are many unusual tourist attractions including the Darvaza Gas Crater, Ruhnama Monument and Kow Ata Underground Lake. However, this adventurer’s reward does not come without the challenge of travelling across the border; Turkmenistan is currently one of the more difficult countries to enter in the world.

Capital:  Ashgabat

Notable Cities & Towns:  Mary, Turkmenabad

Main Airports: Ashgabat

Currency:  Turkmenistani Manat (TMT)

Language: Turkmen

Visiting the Stan countries does not have to be an entire outdoor expedition centred around mountainous scenery. Uzbekistan is a country of rich cultural heritage which is instantly visible from the grandeur of Tashkent’s underground metro stations and the intricacy of every blue pattern in the Islamic architecture. This country will dazzle you between each Silk Road town and the capital city.

Capital:  Tashkent

Notable Cities & Towns:  Bukhara, Samarkand, Khiva

Main Airports: Tashkent, Samarkand, Namangan, Fergana

Currency:  Uzbekistani So’m (UZS)

Language: Uzbek

Plov, Plov and more Plov; this rice and meat dish will be served everywhere. The locals eat Plov for any meal; breakfast, lunch and dinner. Plov is dished out all over Central Asia, but it’s particularly common in Uzbekistan and Tajikistan.

Do you think you’ll be so hungry that you could eat a horse? If you are looking for a truly authentic dining experience when you are visiting the Stan countries, then you could try the horse meat . How horse meat tastes, depends on how it is prepared and cooked. Personally, I’d suggest trying the national dish of Kyrgyzstan – Beschbarmak . This consists of horse meat that has been cooked in a broth and served over homemade noodles. In fact, you may prefer to share this plate as it can be very filling!

Considering Central Asia’s history with Russia, you can also expect at least a few neat vodkas despite the region’s predominately Muslim religion.

The Stans can be explored independently though this is not common, especially via public transport. English is not widely spoken so if you are not up to scratch on your Russian then the already limited public transport options may be an even bigger challenge.

You’ll have much greater freedom to roam the landscapes with a hired car. If you plan to do so, expect long distances, rubbish roads and possibly the odd interaction with a curious police officer.

Commit to a local guide or book with a recognised tour operator to enable you to explore more in a shorter space of time.

What to Pack for a Visit to the Stans

Your typical packing list for visiting the Stan countries will ultimately vary depending on when you visit and the activities that you intend to partake in.

Expect the summer to be ridiculously hot, especially in Uzbekistan and Turkmenistan. Although, if you are hoping to reach the high mountainous regions of Kazakhstan, Tajikistan and Kyrgyzstan, then temperatures can drop quite significantly, so layers should be your packing strategy.

An expedition to the Stans can alternate between city breaks and hiking adventures. This could see your outfit types change each day. Pack clothes that would be suited to both.

Furthermore, the women amongst us may be contemplating certain items of clothing that are better suited to conservative countries. In my experience, there were very few instances in which a headscarf was necessary, though, instances nonetheless. Take one just in case!

Similarly, covering your shoulders and knees will not be necessary on a daily basis, although the act would be appreciated by smaller communities out of major cities and most religious sites will not let you in otherwise.

All-in-all, try to avoid over-packing when visiting the Stan countries. You will inevitably be moving around often, so don’t regret any unnecessary extra weight. There are plenty of bazaars for you to grab yourself a bargain if you forget any items. Plus, laundry services are available at most hotels (if you don’t mind losing a few socks each time) .

Let’s go! @katie.maree

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Hey! I'm a Scottish backpacker turned digital nomad with a passion for the outdoors, van life, and international travel. I travelled 100 countries before I turned 30 years of age. Now... Let's go everywhere!

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A beginner's guide to the 'Stans

An introduction to the 'Stans

Lucy Kelaart, Editor of Steppe Magazine , gives us her guide to the five 'stans: Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan.

Tucked between India, Russia and China, the five 'stans are a congregation of mountains, steppe grassland and desert. Once a mix of feudal khanates and nomadic peoples (use modern-day Afghanistan as a reference), they were formed as republics under Stalin's rule. Now, 20 years after independence, they are forging their own identities. Here's her guide to what each one offers.

Pictured: a map of the region

KAZAKHSTAN The resource-rich boom country: oil, gas, uranium - you name it, Kazakhstan's got it. In the cities, high-rise construction is relentless, although there's little fear of overcrowding in a huge country with a population of just 16 million. Travel into the countryside and you will find tulips stretching across the steppe and clear blue lakes in the mountains; go in winter and you can hunt with golden eagles. For the past two decades, it has been run by President Nursultan Nazarbayev, who managed the transition from former Soviet strongman to 'democratically elected' premier with skill (and some help from Tony Blair). Old habits die hard, however: political opposition is mysteriously absent.

Pictured: the Big Almaty lake, located in the Zailijskiy Ala Tau mountains of Kazakhstan

Long known as an island of democracy in the region, it recently underwent a peaceful power transition (after several revolutions) in an election where the new president won a modest 60 per cent of the vote (compare that to 97 per cent in Turkmenistan). Stunning mountains and a nomadic horse-riding culture are its main assets; in late spring the hills are alive with wild flowers, and the (semi) nomads emerge from apartment blocks to head for their summer pastures. If you fancy drinking fermented mare's milk and sleeping in a yurt, this is the place for you.

Pictured: a Russian Orthodox church in Kyrgyzstan

The mountainous southern neighbour of Kyrgyzstan. Apart from incomes from Tajik workers living abroad, its main resource is water, a source of dispute with downstream neighbour Uzbekistan, which relies on the supply to irrigate its cash-crop cotton fields. Consequently, tit-for-tat is the order of the day: Tajikistan might control the water, but Uzbekistan controls the Tajik supply of gas and electricity, and frequently turns it off. That aside, the country's mountains are spectacular and the way of life is simple. Photos of a walking holiday here would make you the envy of your Facebook friends, though not in Tajikistan itself where the authoritarian president intermittently blocks the site.

Pictured: a native girl of Tajikistan

Turkmenistan

TURKMENISTAN

This is a large desert state, where income from an enormous gas field is used to keep the population happy with cheap flights, gas, electricity and food. As in Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan, the president - a former dentist - is wildly popular, according to the government. Dissent is not tolerated and internet access is severely limited, but on the upside, the country is home to the world's largest carpet and indoor ferris wheel. There are also breathtaking sights, including Merv, a desert city stacked by Genghis Khan, and the sandy Kopet Dag mountains on the border with Iran. If you like riding, come for the famed Akhal-Teke horses, although getting a visa can be pot luck.

Pictured: a building in Ashgabat, the capital of Turkmenistan

The heart of Central Asia and the historic hub of the region. The most settled of all the states, it's home to the romantic-sounding cities of Samarkand and Bukhara. Like the rest of the region, much of its beauty lies in its friendly people. Go off the beaten track and there's much to explore, from a Soviet avant-garde art museum in the west to the palaces of the last Khan of Kokand in the east. With the mildest climate of all the 'stans, it's best visited between February and October. The drawback? The political system, which borders on a police state. To succeed here it helps if you are related to the president, particularly if you are his daughter - a multimillionaire with her own fashion line and pop empire.

Pictured: The Shah-i-Zindi, the avenue of mausoleums, Samarkand, Uzbekistan

Published in Condé Nast Traveller March 2013.

Five countries make up the region of Central Asia, and collectively they’re known as the ‘Stans: Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan and Kazakhstan. Each has their own distinct character, yet the warm and friendly welcome you’ll receive in any of them transcends borders. Travelers with plenty of time on their hands will want to visit all five, but if you’re forced to choose, which ‘Stan is right for you? We’ve compiled a list of what each country has to offer to help you plan your next trip.

Best for Culture Vultures: Uzbekistan

A combination of culture, architecture, and history place Uzbekistan high on many travelers’ wish lists. The UNESCO trio sites of Samarkand, Bukhara, and Khiva — important cities on the former Silk Road — can be squeezed into a week away, making this the ideal introduction to Central Asia.

As you stroll through Samarkand’s Registan, the cavernous central square that once housed a crowded bazaar, it’s not hard to imagine the scents, sounds, and sights of the past. From there, hop on the Afrosiyob high-speed train to the holy city of Bukhara. Crammed into this old town are more than 140 protected ancient buildings, some of which date from the 5th century. Khiva also offers plenty of sites and monuments to delight history buffs. Mud walls still enclose the Ichon-Qala, a medieval city packed with heritage sites. For a truly breathtaking experience, climb the stairs by the North Gate to watch the setting sun over its mosques, madrassas, and mausoleums.

Best for Getting to Know the Locals: Kyrgyzstan

Community-based tourism drives the economy in Kyrgyzstan, and there are many ways to experience the customs and traditions that make it such a fascinating destination. From felt-making to eagle-hunting to rolling out borsook (a delicious fried dough), locals will show tourists techniques that have passed down from generation to generation, and participation is actively encouraged. End at least one night in a typical yurt, a felt tent found throughout Central Asia. Kyrgyzstan is still a nation of nomads, so plan a farm stay to get some of the best views in the country.

Best for Scenic Hikes: Tajikistan

As with neighboring Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan’s breathtaking mountain scenery makes this the ideal choice if you’re the outdoorsy type. Rivers cut deep clefts in the landscape, while remote lakes add pops of emerald green and turquoise, making for great photo opps. The Fann Mountains sit conveniently close to the capital city of Dushanbe, where you can spot their snow-capped peaks soaring to over 16,000 feet.

Hikers of all abilities will delight in exploring on foot. Flower-strewn pastures provide short, gentle walks if you’re in a hurry; if you want to invest the time in multi-day hikes, you will be rewarded with some of the best scenery in the region as you traverse high altitude passes and call in at isolated hamlets. Across the country, the Pamir Mountains are home to yak-herders and sheep farmers whose way of life has changed little over the centuries. A word of caution for those looking to drive the Pamir Highway: it is challenging even for adventurous travelers. You’ll need a robust 4x4 to tackle its potholes and corrugated surfaces, but memories made on this iconic route will last a lifetime.

Best for Bragging Rights: Turkmenistan

Enigmatic Turkmenistan is the least visited of the ‘Stans, a country characterized by inhospitable desert punctuated by scattered, verdant oases. Part of that’s political — visas are harder to come by than for the other four nations — but those who persevere are rewarded with one of the most unique sights on the planet.

Seek out the Darvaza crater, nicknamed the Gate of Hell, which has been alight for four decades. In 1971, Soviet geologists set light to natural gas emanating from a cavern in the Karakum desert and it’s been burning ever since. The country also has three UNESCO World Heritage sites. Explore the city Merv, which was dubbed “Queen of the World” in its heyday, one of the great cities of the Islamic world. Today, Merv is an atmospheric ruin, and its battered fortresses, streets and mausoleums are all that’s left of its 4,000 years of history. Similarly, the once proud ancient city of Konya-Urgench is now a rural backwater. Visit its surviving minarets, mausoleums, and elaborately decorated monuments that are testament to the exceptionally skilled architects and craftsmen who built them. The newest of the three to be inscribed is found at Nisa, close to the present day capital Ashgabat. The Parthian fortresses date back to 1000 B.C. and protected an important trading center.

Best for Modern Architecture: Kazakhstan

Zany architecture is more likely to entice visitors to the capital of Central Asia’s largest country, Kazakhstan. Abundant oil reserves have provided the funds for rapid development, particularly in the futuristic capital city Nur-Sultan, formerly Astana. Architects have been given free rein, sometimes resulting in quirky, even bizarre, designs. Some unkindly refer to the Palace of the Arts as the dog bowl, to Bayterek Tower as the golden lollipop, and the Golden Towers as the beer cans. The Metropolitan Circus arts venue resembles an alien spaceship, and the Khan Shatyr mall could easily double as a circus tent. In comparison, the prosperous former capital Almaty, the largest city in the country, remains Kazakhstan’s financial and commercial center. Its mid 20th century Modernist buildings are a reminder of the nation’s stint as a Soviet Socialist Republic. Many buildings boast mosaics and murals once intended to inspire and motivate its citizens to work for collective goals. Others, such as the emblematic Wedding Palace, feature motifs that depict local traditions and costumes. When you’re done sightseeing, unwind at the Arasan Baths. Sprawling across an entire city block, this venue hides a Finnish sauna, Turkish steam bath, Moroccan hammam, and Russian banya under its whitewashed domes and fabulous ceilings.

Main photo by AlexandrKuznetsov /Shutterstock.

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The Five 'Stans: The Best Places To Visit In Central Asia

Where to go and what to do in central asia.

Steven Hermans

• Where to go

The Karakum Desert

The pamir highway, bukhara and khiva.

• Need to know

The Five ‘Stans… just a handful of countries, but covering a vast swathe of Central Asia.

Where do you start an introduction to a region that stretches from China in the east, to the Caspian Sea in the west, when just one of the countries, Kazakhstan, is almost the same size as Europe?

Some definitions to get us going: the Five 'Stans consist of Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, Kyrgyzstan, Turkmenistan, and the largest, Kazakhstan. Although these five countries have much in common, they also have quite different cultures and traditions.

Their histories are endlessly fascinating: violence and conquest, mixed with the most breathtaking scientific and cultural breakthroughs, the evidence of which is with us today. Yes, Genghis Khan swept through the region with an unimaginable ruthlessness, creating an empire which has never been equalled in size. And yes, Timur (Tamburlaine) was an equally brutal warlord whose influence extended even into India thanks to his descendants.

But the architecture! The scientific advances! The enlightened education! All while Europe was a wallowing backwater. Much of this impressive legacy remains for the visitor to gaze at and admire in awe. This civilisation created buildings which are still among the most stunning to be seen anywhere in the world. Here was where Ulugh Beg built an observatory (you can still see the ruins) at which he mapped the stars and calculated the length of the year; here was the first paper factory which eventually allowed us in the west to write and to read. The (restored) cities of Samarkand and Khiva are like nowhere else on earth. It's all here, and it's criminally underrated by the world's tourism industry.

Ready to go? Here's our summary of the best places to visit in Central Asia, what to do, and how to get there.

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The Five 'Stans are the countries at the heart of the Silk Road, along which goods travelled between China and the West. They have vast mountains, vast deserts, vast valleys, vast plains – you get the idea: everything out here is on an epic scale.

They have Soviet-style cities, true, sometimes with immense monuments to past strongmen rulers, but they also have remote villages and nomadic communities where the old traditions endure.

What's in a name?

The “stan” in the names means “land of”. So Kyrgyzstan is the land of the Kyrgyz, Uzbekistan is the land of the Uzbeks, and so on. It follows that although these five countries have much in common, they also have quite different cultures and traditions.

Shah-i-Zinda in Samarkand

Samarkand, one of the major stops along the ancient Silk Road, is a bustling city with, at its heart, one of the world’s unmissable sights - the Registan.

Built as madrassas, or schools, they are covered in ceramic tiles that sparkle in the sun. Dating from the 15th century and restored in the 20th, they are among the finest examples of Islamic architecture anywhere.

The Registan is just one of the highlights. The Shah-i-Zinda necropolis, dating from the 11th century, is an extraordinary collection of mausoleums and shrines – more than 20 buildings of stunning beauty, packed together in a relatively small space. Legend has it that the cousin of the Prophet Muhammad is buried there.

And don’t miss the remains of the 15th century observatory on the edge of the city, built by Ulugh Beg. Here is where he mapped the stars and worked out the length of the year, among other things, with astonishing accuracy.

Aksu Zhabagly Nature Reserve near Shymkent

This busy town in the south of Kazakhstan, is one of the country’s ancient settlements. Destroyed by Genghis Khan, it recovered to become a major centre along the Silk Road, and in the 20th century developed as one of the country’s main trade and industrial hubs. It has a number of historic sights, but the main attractions are outside the city. The region is famous for its rare tulips that in spring blanket the meadows of the mountains that form a stunning backdrop to the town.

The beautiful national parks that protect the tulips and are sanctuaries for bears and snow leopards, are wonderful to explore on horseback or on a hike: The sight of wild horses roaming through the tulip fields will stay with you forever.

The nearby old oasis towns will give you an unbeatable insight into what life must have been like for the Silk Road traders, and for accommodation try a homestay to sample a genuine Kazakh welcome and the local cuisine which developed out of the traditional nomadic lifestyle.

Visiting Shymkent

If Almaty is the queen of Kazakhstan, Shymkent is the eager lady-in-waiting…

Park of the First President of Kazakhstan in Almaty

The biggest, Kazakh city, Almaty very pleasant and green, surrounded by mountains, with tree-lined streets and many parks – Panfilov Park in particular is well worth strolling through with colourful wooden Zenkov Cathedral and the Musical Instruments Museum.

The city is known for its cultural life. With its theatres, opera house, and museums, and outdoor cafés, restaurants and international cuisine, it has become the favoured home of Central Asia’s literati. The Arasan baths are a great place to relax. You really need to try the luxury spa experience at what is said to be one of the country’s most striking modernist buildings.

There also much to see beyond the city. The nearby mountains are great for hiking and there’s skiing and open-air ice skating on offer too. And don’t miss the spectacular Charyn Canyon - its red sedimentary rock make it a smaller version of the Grand Canyon and it’s home to a wonderful collection of flora and fauna.

Visiting Almaty: How To Get There & Things To Do

The biggest, most vibrant Kazakh city was the capital until 1997…

Yurt camp at Song Kul Lake

Want to get a taste of nomadic life in remote Kyrgyzstan? This is the place to head for, although it’s not an easy journey.

The lake is over 3,000m up in the Tian Shan Mountains, an area covered with snow for up to 200 days a year, and the water freezes in winter, thawing in April-May. The winters are harsh, but in spring the landscape bursts into life. Nowhere is greener than the slopes around this beautiful lake and dozens of nomadic shepherd families come here to set up camp with their flocks.

You can join them, accept their wonderful hospitality, and have the experience of a lifetime thanks to community-based tourism: Sleep in a yurt, eat and drink as the locals do, soak up the amazing beauty of the landscape, hike or ride to explore it.

It’s remote and difficult to get to, and cold even in summer. But the warmth of the welcome you’ll get will be worth it.

How To Get To Song Kul Lake

Central Asia’s archetypal semi-nomadic culture is alive and well in Kyrgyzstan, and nowhere is this more evident than at Lake Song Kul…

Arslanbob mountain range

Arslanbob is a village, a valley, a mountain range and even a large walnut forest, all in Kyrgyzstan.

The village is tucked away on the edge of a fairytale forest, and it is perfect if you want to spend some time away from cities and the heat of the summer, and hike in glorious surroundings.

Waterfalls and sacred lakes make this a place pilgrims are drawn to, and any visitor will find it irresistible. The walnut forest is vast and ancient. According to legend Alexander the Great took walnuts from here which led to them spreading through Europe and the rest of the world.

That may or may not be true. What is certain is that time spent here, perhaps in a delightful homestay getting to know the locals, will be unforgettable.

Visiting Arslanbob: Highlights & How To Get There

The fairytale walnut forest of Arslanbob in southern Kyrgyzstan is a year-round destination for visitors…

The Darwaza Crater in Turkmenistan

The black sands of the Karakum spread over a vast swathe of Turkmenistan – about 70 per cent of the country. Rainfall is scarce and there are few people, but the desert is home to wildlife - lizards, snakes and turtles, foxes and gazelles.

The area was ravaged by Mongol conquests and major cities were destroyed, but there are monuments still standing to give you an idea of what was lost, and in the desert is the eerie Yangikala Canyon which was carved out 5 million years ago by the retreating sea which once covered the whole area.

And then there’s possibly the desert’s weirdest sight of all – the Darwaza Crater, popularly known as the Door to Hell. It’s large, about 70m in diameter and 20m deep, and it is on fire, constantly. It has captured the public imagination and you’ll understand why when you camp nearby and see it glowing ominously in the dark.

Visiting The Karakum Desert

The black sands of the Karakum Desert were once the domain of roving bands of Turkmen slave raiders that terrorised the Caspian basin…

Alem Cultural and Entertainment Centre in Ashgabat

The capital of Turkmenistan is weird and unsettling, but fascinating at the same time. It’s huge, richly decorated – and largely empty of people.

Think marble-clad tower blocks looming over wide, but empty, streets and extravagant monuments and gilded statues honouring various heroes of the country. It’s all bizarre, but still worth seeing.

But as befits a city that was founded in the 19th century, there is an old town, and some real life with the Russian bazaar where you can bargain for fruit with the locals.

There are also a number of museums, including the Turkmen Carpet Museum, Fine Arts, and the National Museum of History. There are also mosques and churches worth seeing, the highlights being Turkmenbashy Ruhy mosque and Ertugrul Gazi mosque.

How To Get To Ashgabat

Described as the city “where Las Vegas meets Pyongyang”, nothing can prepare you for the desert mirage that is Ashgabat…

Cyclists on the Pamir Highway

Now this is probably not for the faint-hearted. Properly known as the M41, the highway connects Afghanistan, Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, and Kyrgyzstan via the towering Pamir Mountains. It’s the second highest highway in the world, and it’s an epic road trip – if you dare!

The highway attracts pedal and motorcyclists, and drivers, looking for a unique adventure. For much of its length the road is mostly a rough track, but there are also ruins of ancient forts that once guarded the Silk Road trading routes.

The area is unstable, prone to landslides, earthquakes and rock falls – and it goes very close to the Afghan border. The ride is extreme and it’s challenging, but you see the most spectacular mountains, raging rivers and breathtakingly beautiful lakes.

Visiting The Pamir Highway & Mountains

Known locally as “the roof of the world,” the Pamir Mountains dominate with their superlatives…

Poi Kalan in Bukhara

Don’t count on seeing either of these two striking cities in a day. The history that’s waiting for you in both the ancient centres will blow you away.

Bukhara was one of the major trading posts on the Silk Road and although it has been rebuilt and restored there are many unmissable key sites, too many to list here. It’s easier simply to quote UNESCO’s view: “…the centre is unquestionably of outstanding significance as an exceptional example of a largely medieval Muslim city.”

A big bonus is that it’s easy to get to – it’s on a high-speed train line from Samarkand and Tashkent.

Khiva can be overlooked because of its distance from Bukhara, but that would be such a mistake. It too has an abundance of cultural and historical sites to visit – the old town itself has more than 50 monuments. The city is more than a thousand years old, and its inner walled town was the first site in Uzbekistan to be placed on the UNESCO world heritage list.

Visiting Bukhara And Khiva

Bukhara, sited on the remains of a Buddhist monastery, was to become one of Islam’s most important places during the Middle Ages…

Historical Uzbekistan

Where and how to see uzbekistan's historical cities, about the author.

Steven is the creator and editor of Caravanistan , an online travel guide to the Silk Road that was described by the Lonely Planet as a "peerless online travel guide to the region". He has been travelling the region since 2010, and has dedicated himself to improving tourism on the Silk Road, both for travellers and locals.

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Silk Road: The Five 'Stans of Central Asia

The five ‘stans of Central Asia - Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, Kyrgyzstan and Kazakhstan – must rank amongst some of the world’s least visited and least well-known destinations, making this trip a true journey of discovery.

Offering an incredible diversity of both scenery and culture - from the architectural wonders of Uzbekistan’s Silk Road cities of Samarkand, Bukhara and Khiva to the epic scenery of the Tien Shan ‘Mountains of Heaven’ - you will cross vast deserts and mighty rivers and experience local hospitality in homestays in Tajikistan and Kyrgyzstan. For much of the time you will be following ancient trade routes and discovering the remains of a bygone age but you will also experience the Central Asia of today from the bizarre white-marble city of Ashgabat to the cosmopolitan cities of Tashkent and Almaty.

Day 1: STARTING IN ASHGABAT (TURKMENISTAN)

Discover Ashgabat , the capital of Turkmenistan (the first of our five ‘stans), known as the “white-marble city”. Discover the fascinating reminders of the city’s rich and eclectic past, including the famous so-called Arch of Neutrality.

Day 2: ASHGABAT

Travel out to Nissa, the 3rd Century BC capital of the Parthians, and visit the famous site of Geo Tepe where the Turkmens made their last stand against the Russians. Visit a nearby stud farm to see some of the beautiful pure-bred Akhel Teke, or ‘heavenly’ horses’, the Chinese desire for which gave birth to the original impetus for the Silk Road. Visit the largest mosque in Central Asia and the mausoleum of the first Turkmen President “Turkmenbashy”.

DAY 3: ASHGABAT - MARY

Fly to Mary, and drive out to Ancient Merv to see remaining traces of the glorious “Maru Shahu Jahan” – “Queen of Cities”. Due to its size and historical importance, Merv is one of the most significant sites in Turkmenistan, indeed in all of Central Asia. It consists of a series of towns each succeeded by another throughout the course of history. See the remains of several sites including the Erk Kala (6th C BC) with its citadel and the Mausoleum of Muhammed Ibn Zeid (12th C AD) before later returning to Mary to visit the local history museum , presenting a wide array of archaeological finds (dating back to the 3rd millennium BC through to the late 19th century) from both Ancient Merv and the Bronze Age sites of Margush.

DAY 4: MARY – GONUR DEPE - MARY

Drive northeast from Mary to ancient Margush and the archaeological site of Gonur Depe (40km off-road). Fertile silt brought by waters of the Murgab River delta and a moderate climate created favourable conditions for Bronze Age settlements known as the Margiana Oasis deep in the desert. This is an amazing site said to be the fifth great civilisation of ancient times where, it is believed, the Zoroastrian culture was born.

DAY 5: MARY – BUKHARA (UZBEKISTAN)

DAY 6: BUKHARA

Visit the famous Arc – or town citadel – in front of which the British officers Connelly and Stoddard lost their heads in what was one of the most infamous events of the Great Game. Visit the Kolan Minaret – or Tower of Death, from which Amir Nasirulla Khan threw his enemies – as well as the rest of the beautiful old town. Explore Bukhara at your leisure, with opportunities to wander through the bazaar and maybe do a little souvenir shopping.

DAY 7: BUKHARA

There is still plenty to see and do in Bukhara , such as visiting the Sitorai-Mokhi Hosa, the impressive summer residence of last Emir of Bukhara.

DAY 8: BUKHARA - KHIVA

Take a long drive across the desert towards Khiva. En route you will cross once more the famous Amu-Darya River before arriving in Khiva’s UNESCO-protected old town, where you can wander around the quiet streets of this wonderfully preserved Silk Road city.

DAY 9: KHIVA

Soak up the atmosphere of Khiva and visit some of the most colourful and sumptuous sites, including the Kukhna Arc and the Mohammed Khan Madrassa. Climb up the Kalta Minor minaret, explore the Jama Majid mosque with its amazing wooden pillars and the Alloquli Khan Madrassa, bazaar and caravanserai.

DAY 10: KHIVA - TASHKENT

After a short drive to Urgench , take a morning flight to Tashkent, Uzbekistan’s vibrant capital which sat at the heart of the old Central Asian trading routes, gaining prominence under the Mongols and the Shabanids, before finally being absorbed by the expansionist policies of the Russian empire during the 19th century. Flattened by a devastating earthquake in the mid 1960s, the city was reinvented by the Kremlin to represent the very epitome of the socialist ideal. Today a prestigious working madrasah overlooks the sprawling Chorsu bazaar and nearby is the modern complex of the Khast Imam Mosque, which contains the oldest known copy of the Koran dating from 655. Tashkent is a colourful mixture of history and culture, including the Museum of Fine Art.

DAY 11: TASHKENT - SAMARKAND

Take a train ride to probably the most famous of all Silk Road cities, Samarkand. Discover this amazing town, wandering through the gargantuan sights and visiting Guri Amir (Tamerlane’s tomb), Bibi Khanym mosque , Shah-i-Zindar – the street of the dead - and the town’s excellent bazaar. Don't miss a visit to Registan Square, one of Central Asia’s most iconic sites.

DAY 12: SAMARKAND

Take the time to explore some of Samarkand ’s greatest sites including Ulug-Beg’s extraordinary observatory, built in 1437 whereby he calculated the length of a year to within 1 minute of what we now know it to be.

DAY 13: SAMARKAND - TERMEZ

Heading south from Samarkand, drive on to Termez, a city whose ancient heart dates back to the 4th Century BC. Built on the banks of the Amu-Darya River, the old city was located at the intersection of many Great Silk Road routes and has a long, rich history. Don't miss a visit to the impressive Fayaz Tepa Buddhist Complex.

DAY 14: TERMEZ – DUSHANBE (TAJIKISTAN)

Visit some of the city’s other notable sites including the Archaeological Museum and the Sultan Saodat Complex, before driving to the border and crossing into Tajikistan, the third our five ‘stans, and heading towards its relaxed capital, Dushanbe.

DAY 15: DUSHANBE – FAN MOUNTAINS

Stroll along Rudaki, the city’s main street and - depending on their erratic opening hours – a chance to visit one of the city’s impressive museums .Continue your journey north into the Fan Mountains, an area of outstanding natural beauty lying to south of the Zarafshan River.

DAY 16: FAN MOUNTAINS

Take a full day to explore the famed alpine scenery of this rarely visited part of Central Asia. Abounding in deep blue lakes and sporadically inhabited by Tajik pastoralists, the area is still relatively undiscovered and allows for a fascinating insight into this gem of a country.

DAY 17: FAN MOUNTAINS - KHODJENT

Leaving the Fan Mountains, take a spectacular drive over the Shakristan Pass (3378m) to arrive in Khodjent, which once played host to Alexander the Great’s armies. You can even have a swim in the famous Syr-Darya river, which runs through the town.

DAY 18: KHODJENT – KOKAND (UZBEKISTAN)

Follow the original Silk Road route along the Syr Darya River, crossing back into Uzbekistan and head for Kokand, once a powerful independent khanate whose might once controlled this entire region. Visit what remains of the khan’s palace.

DAY 19: KOKAND – OSH (KYRGYZSTAN)

Drive through the Fergana Valley, the incredibly fertile region that was the breadbasket of the Central Asian USSR and is still one of the wealthiest parts of the whole region. Stop in Rishton, renowned for its blue and green ceramics and later the town of Margilon, centre of the still thriving silk trade in the area. Here you can see the entire silk-weaving process from cocoon to end product. Head back to the Uzbek border and enter our fourth, and probably most beautiful of the ‘stans, Kyrgyzstan. Overnight in the ancient Silk Road town of Osh . Reputed to be 3000 years old, Osh is a place steeped in history and dominated by Solomon’s Throne which looms over the town.

DAY 20: OSH - ARSLANBOB

Heading into Kyrgyzstan’s mountainous interior, by way of the 12th century Uzgen minaret, for Arslanbob village. Considered to be one of the country’s most attractive villages, it sits in the middle of a vast walnut forest.

DAY 21: ARSLANBOB

Explore on foot the surrounds of Arslanbob and see its famous walnut forests, as well as some of the waterfalls and streams which dot the region. The walnut forests are believed to pre-date the 11th century and may even date back to the times of Alexander the Great. In fact legend has it that Alexander brought back large quantities of the nuts from Central Asia, but had to give them up once he reached Greece as payment to the boatmen who transported his troops. While this may just be the stuff of legends, what is certainly true is that Central Asian walnuts regularly formed part of the goods that were transported along the Silk Road, branches of which ran close to Arslanbob.

DAY 22: ARSLANOB – SARY CHELEK

Departing Arslanbob, we aim to arrive by mid-afternoon at Sary Chelek, which was included in the list of UNESCO Protected Biosphere Reserves in 1978. This is one of Kyrgyzstan’s least visited but most striking locations. Centred around a spectacular lake, which sits at an altitude of 1873m, Sary Chelek is almost alpine in appearance and provides some of the finest scenery in Central Asia. We base ourselves here for two nights.

DAY 23: SARY CHELEK

Head out with a picnic lunch and take an easy but exhilarating walk between and around two of the lakes of Sary Chelek . Being home to over 1000 species of plant, 160 species of bird and 34 different types of mammal we can never be sure of exactly what we might see, but the views all around are spectacular.

DAY 24: SARY CHELEK – CHYCHKEN GORGE

Take a beautiful drive takes east towards Chychkan Gorge where you can explore some of the impressive surrounding areas. You may have the opportunity to observe nomadic herders living in their traditional yurts surrounded by huge flocks of sheep, as well as many horses. Stop to see them milking mares in order to make ‘kumys’, a popular drink for the nomads. This is a great introduction to the life of the nomadic shepherd.

DAY 25: CHYCHKEN GORGE - BISHKEK

Head towards the Kyrgyz capital and drive over two mountain passes - the dramatic Tuu Ashuu (3586m) and the Ala Bel (3184m) which in Kyrgyz means ‘colourful pass’. Arrive at Bishkek, one of the world’s more relaxed capitals.

DAY 26: BISHKEK

Head to Ala-Archa, a grand, rugged but very accessible gorge situated about an hour's drive from Bishkek. In the Kyrgyz language, Ala-Archa means bright juniper and it grows in abundance here over the mountain slopes. Now converted into a national park , it also offers some good walking possibilities and is a favourite place with the citizens of Bishkek, who like to relax and enjoy picnics here.

DAY 27: BISHKEK – ALMATY (KAZAKHSTAN)

Enter the fifth and final ‘stan, Kazakhstan. Depending on border formalities you should arrive in Almaty in time for a visit to the Holy Ascension Cathedral, which is made entirely of wood.

DAY 28: ALMATY

After a morning visit to Republic Square to see the Independent Monument and the State History Museum drive up to Medeo gorge, taking a funicular up to Chimbulak for some great views out over the highest ice-skating rink in the world. Afterwards, head to Sunkar to learn about the old tradition of falconry – hunting with birds of prey.

This itinerary was developed in collaboration with Wild Frontiers as a capacity building initiative for the Silk Road World Heritage Journeys project.

Visiting the Stans of Central Asia

Central Asia is known colloquially as ‘the Stans’, which consist of the former Soviet republics of

• Turkmenistan

Even if you haven’t heard of the countries that make up the Stans, The Silk Road may be a more familiar name. This famous network of ancient roads winds through the Stans, allowing you to follow in the footsteps of traders, herders, explorers and such legends as Alexander the Great and Genghis Khan. 

Let’s find out more about the Stans or the ‘Lost Heart of Asia’ as it has been described by UK travel writer Colin Thubron .

What to expect when you travel to the Stans?

The Stans is a region of vast steppes, deserts and mountains where mass tourism has barely made any inroads, but that’s not to say the Stans doesn’t have cities. You’ll find Soviet-style big cities like Ashgabat in Turkmenistan or Almaty in Kazakhstan which have certain glitz and glamour, friendly locals and even WiFi. 

Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan are the most visited countries of the Stans by UK tourists, but they still only manage to attract 1,000 people each year respectively. This is in comparison to the 8.5 million people that visit Spain each year. So it’s safe to say you won’t be bumping into anyone you know unless they decide to do the same group tour .

Cuisine and hospitality

The cuisine of the Stans may be a culture shock for the uninitiated so you’ll need to have an open mind. Dishes vary throughout the Stans, ranging from basic meaty broths with bread, tomatoes, and cucumbers, to hearty meat grills , Samsa (a kind of samosa) and plov (the national dish made of rice, vegetables, quail eggs, and meat). 

The national drink is fermented mare’s milk (kumis) which is an acquired taste, but you can also wash down your meal with neat ice-cold vodka. 

While decent, comfortable hotels with ensuites are a staple of any tour to the Stans, for many visitors, the chance to overnight in a traditional yurt homestay is a big drawcard. Here you won’t find many trappings of the Western world but you’ll be given a warm and generous welcome.

Highlights of the 5 Stans

We’ve put together some highlights of the five Stans that you can expect on a Central Asia tour .

Turkmenistan 

The Turkmen capital of Ashgabat is commonly used as a jumping off point for a five Stans tour because it has a large international airport. The city is a perfect introduction to the Stans, and is often described as weird or wacky because of its architecture. It has a high concentration of buildings constructed out of white marble and it’s even won a Guinness World Record for them. 

Former president-dictator Saparmurat Niyazov also didn’t want to be forgotten so there are plenty of amazingly detailed statues of him dotted around. This is a police state with tight security and you won’t be allowed to take photos freely. But as part of a guided tour you can visit attractions such as the National Museum, Independence Park and the Ottoman style mosque of Ertoghrul Gazie.

Uzbekistan 

Uzbekistan has a population of 33 million and is the most visited country in the Stans. A cultural and geographic crossroads, it was an important link in the Silk Road and features many ancient cities from that period . Bukhara and Samarkand are the two standouts that most tours visit. 

At Bukhara you’ll find trading domes, hundreds of well-preserved mosques, bazaars, and caravanserais that date largely from the 9th to the 17th centuries. Samarkand is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and deemed one of the most beautiful cities of the Stans. It’s filled with blue-tiled mosques, madrasas and stunning decorative mausoleums that inspired the Taj Mahal.

Tajikistan 

In stark contrast, travelling to the smallest of the Stans means heading up into the mountains where pure glacial streams flow freely and you share the road with yaks and cows. In Tajikistan you’ll discover a traditional way of life unchanged for millennia and friendly, curious locals who make you feel like you’re the first and only person to visit. 

The scenery is Tajikistan's drawcard and it abounds with plenty of big, bold and beautiful views. Journey over the Anzob Pass taking in the unforgettable vistas of the Fan Mountain range, to the pristine Lake Iskandar Kol where you can hike until your heart’s content without meeting another soul. 

Kyrgyzstan 

It’s a short flight from Tashkent, Uzbekistan to reach the capital of Bishkek in the north of Kyrgyzstan. While you can easily spend a day exploring the city, taking in the Osh Bazaar and the main square Ala Too, it’s the countryside that beckons. Kyrgyzstan is full of natural beauty where sweeping steppe, glacial lakes and alpine forests dominate the landscape. 

Yurt homestay camping in the meadows by Song Kul lake is a highlight of this Stan and you’ll be made to feel welcome by sharing family meals (and a cup of kumis!) after exploring the area on foot or horseback. Ala Archa National Park is also a beautiful landscape to hike through and just half an hour outside Bishkek.

Kazakhstan 

The world’s ninth largest nation, Kazakhstan is a lot of country for a small amount of people. Suffice to say most Stan tours will concentrate on the city of Almaty, the largest city situated near the border of Kyrgyzstan and a trading and cultural hub. 

Surrounded by the spectacular Trans-Ili Alatau mountains, from Almaty you can take excursions to the Tien Shan mountains and Big Almaty Lake, as well as taking in the Silk Road sites of Turkestan, Sauran and Otrar. Kazakhstan is the most economically advanced of all the Stans, so you’ll find a good standard of accommodation, food and transport in Almaty. 

Requirements to visit the Stans

UK passport holders will need a visa to Tajikistan, Uzbekistan and Turkmenistan (details can be found on Travcour visa agency). There are no visa requirements for Kazakhstan for visits up to 30 days or Kyrgyzstan for visits of up to 60 days.

Want to visit this fascinating region and experience the Stans of Central Asia for yourself? Then be sure to check out our tour The Five Stans of Central Asia or contact Wild Frontiers for more information.

Check Out All Central Asia Tours & Holidays

Harry Foskett

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The Best Time to Visit the Five Stans of Central Asia

• 01. Step 1: Where to go in China
• 02. Step 2: When to go in China
• 03. Step 3: How to Visit Tibet in 2021 — Suggestions and

The best time to visit the Central Asian countries, which include Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan, largely depends on your preferences and the specific activities you plan to undertake. Here's a general overview of the seasons in Central Asia:

Spring (April to June):

Spring is a pleasant time to visit Central Asia when temperatures are mild, and the landscapes are often lush and green.

It's a good time for cultural and historical exploration, as the weather is comfortable for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

Wildflowers bloom in many regions, adding to the natural beauty.

Summer (June to August):

Summer can be quite hot in Central Asia, especially in lowland areas and deserts like Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan.

However, it's a great time for high-altitude adventures and trekking in places like Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan.

The Ferghana Valley in Uzbekistan and Kyrgyzstan offers pleasant summer temperatures.

Autumn (September to November):

Autumn is another excellent time to visit Central Asia, with comfortable temperatures and beautiful fall foliage in some regions.

It's a good time for trekking, cultural festivals, and enjoying the harvest season.

Winter (December to February):

Winter can be harsh and extremely cold, especially in the northern parts of Central Asia.

However, it's an ideal time for winter sports enthusiasts to visit the ski resorts in Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan.

Some cities like Samarkand and Bukhara in Uzbekistan can be visited during winter if you prefer fewer crowds and can tolerate cold weather.

Where to visit during the Wintertime in the "Five Stans"?

Note on Festivals:

Consider planning your visit around local festivals and events, such as Navruz (celebrated in spring), which is a significant holiday in many Central Asian countries.

Ramadan and Eid al-Fitr are also essential observances in the predominantly Muslim countries of Central Asia and may influence your travel plans.

In summary, the best time to visit Central Asia depends on your interests and tolerance for weather conditions. Spring and autumn are generally considered ideal for most travelers due to mild temperatures and pleasant weather for outdoor activities and cultural exploration. However, if you're interested in winter sports or prefer fewer crowds, you may opt for the winter months in certain regions. Be sure to check specific destinations and activities when planning your trip, as conditions can vary widely across Central Asia.

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Backpacking Central Asia – A Guide to the Stans for 2023

Why now is the best time for backpacking central asia.

In this comprehensive guide, we will tell you all you need to know about backpacking Central Asia and the Stans.

Central Asia has so much to offer every type of traveller and is rich in culture, history, cuisine and natural landscapes.

From the architecture of the ancient Silk Road to mountains and deserts, you are sure to find something to amaze in this vastly underrated part of the world. In this Central Asia Travel Guide, you can discover all you need to know about the “Stans”!

Boring stuff: I have visited each of the places I recommend and give you my honest opinion, warts and all. All photos are my own unless otherwise stated and may not be reproduced without permission. Affiliate links may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

Quick Guide to Backpacking the Stans

Turkmenistan

The Pamir Highway

Visas for Central Asia

Useful Information

What Countries Make up Central Asia and the Stans?

There is no set definition of the geographical limits of Central Asia, however, most people agree that the core area encompasses the five former Soviet “Stans” of Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan.

Afghanistan and the Chinese province of Xinjiang (referred to by some as East Turkestan) are also geographically part of Central Asia. The extreme far west of Mongolia can also be considered Central Asian both geographically and culturally.

In this guide, we will stick to the five main Stans.

Traveling to Central Asia is equal parts challenging and rewarding. This destination isn’t for tourists looking for a relaxing vacation. Rather, it’s a destination for devoted travelers who want to see the world, experience unique cultures, and have an adventure.

Figure Out Your Visa Needs

Central Asia has five core countries and varying passport requirements for each. While people from the Western hemisphere typically don’t face challenges when getting visas, it’s important to understand the nuances of each place.

For example, Kyrgyzstan, Kazakhstan, and Tajikistan do not require visas for stays up to 30 days for most Western countries.

However, United States citizens require an electronic Visa to get into Uzbekistan, which should be applied for at least three days before the trip.

Turkmenistan has entirely different requirements. Travel visas are required to pass through Turkmenistan but are complicated to get and often rejected for no reason.

Several routes throughout the region require special permits to travel. Plan your trip down to each detail well in advance. Check your country’s government website for current travel restrictions.

For UK residents, the FCO website provides the latest travel information.

Visa Information for Backpacking Central Asia

Kazakhstan entry requirements.

As of February 2022 Kazakhstan is now open again and the visa-free policy that was in place before the pandemic has been resumed! The land borders remain closed to tourists but it is possible no to fly in and out of Kazakhstan.

Open for Tourism: Yes

Visa-free : Yes (citizens of the EU, UK, USA and more can visit visa-free for 30 days)

Visa on Arrival: Yes

E-visa: Yes

LOI Required: No

Negative PCR Required: Yes (72-hour validity)

Quarantine Required: No

More information: Kazakhstan eases travel restrictions

Kyrgyzstan Entry Requirements

Visa-free : Yes (citizens of 60 countries can enter Kyrgyzstan visa-free)

More information: Visa policy of Kyrgyzstan

Tajikistan Entry Requirements

Visa-free: No

Quarantine Required: Yes, 14-day quarantine is required at a state facility.

More information: Official Tajikistan E-visa portal

Turkmenistan Entry Requirements

Update April 2023: Turkmenistan has reopened for tourism and there are already reports of travelers succufully obtaining visas and touring the country.

Uzbekistan Entry Requirements

Visa-free : Yes (citizens of 130 countries can enter Uzbekistan visa-free)

Quarantine Required: Uzbekistan operates a traffic light system. Those travelling from countries on the green list are not required to quarantine. Those travelling from red or yellow list countries (which include the UK) must self-isolate for 14 days.

More information: Official Uzbekistan E-visa portal

Dangerous Border Areas

In recent years there has been sporadic fighting between some of the “Stans” and border points can be potential flashpoints. The Kyrgyz/Uzbek border saw violence as recently as May 2022. Check local media before crossing land borders.

It goes without saying that the border between Uzbekistan and Afghanistan should be avoided.

Generally speaking, the crossings between Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan and Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan are safe for travellers. I have made these crossings many times without incident.

Be Careful in Nature

Many people venture to Central Asia to hike the beautiful mountain ranges. Tajikistan, Kyrgyzstan, and Kazakhstan are common destinations for avid hikers who want to experience the natural beauty in this part of the world. However, it’s important to understand the risks involved and prepare.

Take some time to research the local wildlife, so you know what to do if you encounter something dangerous. For example, the leopard gecko is a relatively calm creature that many Westerners keep as pets.

The Caspian cobra, however, is one of the more dangerous species to inhabit the region. In the desert areas of Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan always shake your clothes out for spiders and scorpions.

It’s also important to understand the dangers of traveling in the mountains as the weather can be unpredictable, even in summer. The winter temperature in Kazakhstan can drop as low as -30c, especially near the Russian border and capital, Nur-Sultan.

When going trekking, try not to go alone, and if you do, tell your hotel/hostel of your proposed route and when you expect to return. Ensure you pack plenty of layers, have a detailed map, and lots of water or ways to purify it .

Take a Bathroom Kit

While you’ll find a few Western toilets in high-end establishments in the cities, prepare for squat toilets everywhere else.

These toilets are typically holes in the ground over which you squat to do your business. Toilet paper is a rarity in most bathrooms in Central Asia.

When backpacking Central Asia, consider packing a toilet kit for your adventures, including wipes, toilet paper, and hand sanitizer. You’ll be glad you did.

Learn Some Basic Russian

Central Asia is a diverse region with several different languages and subcultures. However, this former Soviet-ruled area still has a few cultural hangovers that make it unique.

One of which is that the unifying language across countries is Russian. Most people in Central Asia will speak Russian as well as their native language, however in parts of Uzbekistan you might struggle to find Russian speakers, and English is certainly no widely known in the region.

It’s also worth having the Google Translate app on your phone, as learning Russian is easier said than done.

Invest in a Data Plan

WiFi is unreliable at best in Central Asia and non-existent in some areas. Invest in a data plan for your phone or pick up a local SIM card when you arrive. You’ll need data for navigation and translation.

You’ll also want to use a VPN while travelling to ensure your connection is secure. ExpressVPN is one of the cheapest and best on the market with servers in over 160 locations around the globe.

As many parts of Central Asia are underdeveloped, carrying cash is a must. While many establishments accept Visa (but not Mastercard), they’re often declined without explanation or reasoning. Furthermore, each country has a different currency.

It’s also recommended that you carry some US currency or Euros to exchange, just in case. Look for a currency exchange in a well-populated, busy area to avoid getting scammed. Don’t use the money exchanges at border crossings as you will get ripped off!

Negotiate Transportation

While public transportation is a great option for getting around the cities, you’ll likely need a taxi to get to some prime hiking spots.

While Central Asia is relatively safe, there are many taxi scams, especially in Uzbekistan. Negotiate a price before getting in and write it down, showing the drive that you have it.

Keep your bags with you and consider using an app to stay safe. Yandex is a popular ride-sharing app in the region (Russian Uber).

Navigating through Central Asia takes patience and preparation. Keep these key considerations in mind as you plan your grand adventure.

Kazakhstan Travel Information

Quick Facts Capital: Nur-Sultan (nee Astana) Language(s): Kazakh, Russian Currency: ₸ Tenge ($1 USD = ₸428) Daily Budget: $40

Visa Info Visa-free: Yes Visa on arrival: Yes E-visa: Yes See visa section for current rules

Kazakhstan is the largest of the Central Asian countries and the ninth-largest in the world. Due to the size of the country, the landscape includes huge swathes of desert, steppe and mountains which makes it an excellent playground for adventurous travellers.

The ultra-modern city of Nur-Sultan (Astana) is the business hub and offers opportunities for shopping and fine dining, but the former capital Almaty is truly the beating heart of Kazakhstan. Here you can indulge in a range of outdoor activities from skiing, snowboarding, hiking, canyoning and more.

Almaty is a vibrant and cosmopolitan city with many fine restaurants, cafe’s and bars. See my full Kazakhstan Travel Guide or backpacking in Kazakhstan guide for more.

Aktau is a small resort town on the Caspian Sea and the departure point for boats to Baku in Azerbaijan. It is so remote, that unless you plan on taking the Caspian Sea Ferry, it’s probably not worth the long trip to get there.

Things to see and do in Aktau

• City Beaches
• Mangistau (day trip)

Almaty is the charming former capital sitting in the shadows of the Tian Shan Mountains. From wine bars to winter sports and architecture to opera, there is something for everyone here.

Things to see and do in Almaty

• Paniflov Park
• Ascension Cathedral
• Kok Tobe Mountain
• Medeu Ice Rink
• Shymbulak Ski Resort
• Big Almaty Lake
• Charyn Canyon (day trip)
• Kolsai Lakes (day trip)

Aralsk was once a thriving fishing port on the Aral Sea, but thanks to the rerouting of rivers for Soviet cotton farming, the inland sea is now miles from Aralsk (but thankfully slowly returning). Now all that is left are a few rusting ships and a town that has seen better days.

Home of the Russian space program, and technically considered part of Russia due to the lease, Baikonur is the fully operational launch site of manned and unmanned rockets. It’s even possible to witness a launch!

A small town not far from the capital, Karaganda is home of the Karlag gulag camp, the largest in Kazakhstan during soviet times. There is now an interesting museum at the site, and the town has a few things of interest such as some soviet murals.

Nur-Sultan (formerly Astana)

Kazakhstan’s shiny new capital lacks the soul and charm of Almaty, but is home to some interesting post-soviet architecture. Nur-Sultan is the place to find the most upmarket restaurants and the best shopping in the country and is a useful hub for travelling to and from Russia.

Shymkent is a small city close to the border with Uzbekistan. It is sometimes referred to as the “Texas of Kazakhstan” because of the large cattle farms and “cowboys”. The city is pleasant with some good bars and restaurants and makes a good base for hiking in the nearby mountains.

Turkistan is where you will find the best examples of Kazakhstan’s Silk Road past with its medieval Islamic architecture. It was here that Timur (Tamerlane) had a large mausoleum constructed for Islamic scholar Yasawi. The beautiful blue-tiled tomb is a must-see and is reminiscent of Samarkand.

Kyrgyzstan Travel Information

Quick Facts Capital: Bishkek Language(s): Kyrgyz, Russian Currency: Лв Som ($1 USD = Лв84.57) Daily Budget: $40

Visa Info Visa-free: Yes Visa on arrival: Yes E-visa: Yes

Wild Kyrgyzstan is Kazakhstan’s tiny and much poorer neighbour to the south, but although it lacks the vast oil wealth of its neighbour to the north, the country is rich in culture and boasts some of the most fantastic scenery in the world, such as Lake Issyk Kul.

Wander the world-famous Osh Bazaar which is full of the sights, smells and sounds of the Silk Road or take a trip trekking on horseback through the Fergana Valley or mountain passes of the High Pamir Mountains. The capital, Bishkek, makes a good base from which to explore this wild and enchanting land.

Kyrgyzstan’s bustling capital isn’t as modern as some of the others in Central Asia, but certainly retains its Silk Road charm! Here you will find bazaars and stalls shadowed by the ever-present Tian Shan Mountains.

Top thing to see and do in Bishkek

• Ala-Too Square
• The Burana Tower (Day trip)

Note: Unfortunately, and unlike Central Asia’s more developed cities, Bishkek has a reputation for petty crime. It is not advisable to go out alone after dark, don’t flash expensive items and keep your belongings safe, especially around Osh Bazaar and on public transport. A Kyrgyz friend of mine was robbed while she slept in a marshrutka, so it is not only foreigners that are targeted.

Lake Issyk Kul

The jewel of Kyrgyzstan, Lake Issyk Kul covers more than 6,000 square kilometres. The lake was a popular tourist destination during soviet times and retains a few small resort areas that have seen better days. The mountainous landscapes around the lake however are stunning! The small city of Karakol on the eastern tip of Issyk Kul makes a good starting point for further exploration!

Tajikistan Travel Information

Quick Facts Capital: Dushanbe Language(s): Tajiki, Russian Currency: SM ($1 USD = SM11.41) Daily Budget: $40

Visa Info Visa-free: No Visa on arrival: Yes E-visa: Yes

The Republic of Tajikistan is the wildest of all the countries in Central Asia and traditionally has been one of the more difficult to visit. Things are changing fast though and the government is keen to promote the country to adventure seekers and outdoors enthusiasts.

Tajikistan is a dream for hikers and mountain climbers with peaks rising to over 5,000 metres. Due to its proximity to next-door Afghanistan and a recent high-profile terrorist attack on cyclists, a degree of caution is required when travelling in some areas.

Although with a smaller population than Bishkek in Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan’s capital Dushanbe is a little more modern and tourist-friendly. The city is home to pleasant parks like Victory Park and has a good selection of bars and restaurants.

Top thing to see and do in Dushanbe

• Rudaki Park
• Somoni Statue
• Fort Hissar
• Victory Park
• Zilioni Bazaar

The Pamir Highway (officially known as Highway M41) runs across much of Central Asia from Afghanistan, through Uzbekistan, Tajikistan and into Kyrgyzstan. Driving (or even cycling ) the Pamir Highway is absolutely one of the best ways to see these wild and untamed lands up close.

A trip on the Pamir Highway takes some planning as it really is a wild place with long distances between settlements. Ensure you have enough food and water and have a clear plan of where you will stay. A lightweight tent is a useful addition even if you don’t plan on camping.

Turkmenistan Travel Information

Quick Facts Capital: Ashgabat Language(s): Turkmen, Russian Currency: Manat ($1 USD = 3.5 MNT) Daily Budget: $200

Visa Info Visa-free: No Visa on arrival: No E-visa: No Applications to: Nearest Embassy

The Republic of Turkmenistan is the most intriguing of all the “Stans” due to its secretive past (and present) as a “hermit “state similar to North Korea. Turkmenistan is truly a strange country and the marbled capital Ashgabat has been described as like Las Vegas on steroids, which is not far wrong on an aesthetic level at least.

If you can get hold of the notoriously difficult Turkmen visa, then the country is well worth exploring for its historic sites such as Konye Urgench. The highlight of any trip to Turkmenistan has to be the infamous “Door to Hell“, or Darvaza Gas Crater in the middle of the Karakum Desert.

It is very difficult to visit Turkmenistan as an independent tourist; the only way this can be done is with a transit visa, which means you must enter and exit the country at different points. Most people who visit take a guided tour, which isn’t cheap (around $1,000) for four days), but totally worth it for such a unique experience.

The capital of Turkmenistan really is a very strange city. If you mixed ancient Rome with Las Vegas you might get something of an idea of Ashgabat . The city was almost completely destroyed by an earthquake in 1948 and has since been reconstructed in white marble shipped from Italy.

Nevertheless, there is plenty of interest including the large soviet memorial park, Ruhy mosque, city cable car and spotless, empty streets! Be careful where you point your camera and make sure not to snap any government buildings, officials or police (if in doubt, ask your guide or a policeman)!

Top thing to see and do in Ashgabat

• Turkmenbashi Ruhy Mosque
• Kopet Dag Cableway
• Independence Park
• Giant (opening) Ruhnama
• National Museum
• Memorial Park

The reason many tourists make the difficult journey to Turkmenistan is to gaze into the fiery abyss of the Darvaza Gas Crater (also known as the Door to Hell). This large, burning pit in the middle of the Karakum Desert exists thanks to a drilling accident in 1971. When geologists set the natural gas ablaze, little did they realise that it would continue burning strong for forty years!

It is possible to camp next to the crater on many tours of Turkmenistan. Eating barbeque overlooking Darvaza as the sun sets has to be one of the most unique travel experiences there is!

Konye Urgench

Konye Urgench is a well-preserved ancient city of the Khorezm Empire and is located close to the Amu Darya (Oxus) River near the border with Uzbekistan. here you will find a selection of mosques, madrassas and mausoleums, plus the tall Kutlug Timur minaret leaning precariously over the site!

Yerbent Desert Village is a small settlement between Ashgabat and Darvaza on the edge of the Karakum Desert. If you are lucky, you will see camels wandering between the rusting soviet jeeps and nomadic yurts.

See the Turkmenistan page for more information.

Uzbekistan Travel Information

Quick Facts Capital: Tashkent Language(s): Uzbek, Russian Currency: Som ($1 USD = 10,600) Daily Budget: $50

The Republic of Uzbekistan offers some of the finest history and architecture in all of Central Asia. The cities of Bukhara, Khiva and of course Samarkand are home to some of the most magnificent medieval architecture in the world. The capital, Tashkent, is a pleasant city with leafy suburbs filled with colourful, wooden Izby houses that remind of the country’s ties to Russia.

For those seeking a little more adventure, a trip to Termiz in the far south of the country will be rewarded with some ancient Buddhist ruins, not to mention being as close as it’s possible to get to Afghanistan across the Amu Darya (Oxus) River.

The ancient city of Bukhara has a history dating back over 2,000 years and was an important trading hub within Central Asia. The city is home to some of the most stunning examples of medieval Islamic architecture with its yellow-bricked madrassas and shimmering blue domes.

Top thing to see and do in Bukhara

• Kalyan Minaret
• Ark Citadel
• Plaza Labi Havz
• Samani Mausoleum
• Kukeldash Madrassa

Another important Silk Road settlement alongside the better known Bukhara and Samarkand, Khiva is well worth a visit for its walled ancient city.

Top thing to see and do in Khiva

• Kalta Minor Minaret
• Tash Chauli Palace
• Medieval Baths
• Ichon-Qala (Khiva Old City)

Samarkand is the most famous of Uzbekistan’s ancient cities and was once the seat of the Timurid empire led by Timur, or Tamerlane as we know him in the West. The city is centred around Registan Square which houses three large madrassas, or Islamic schools.

Top thing to see and do in Samarkand

• Registan Square
• Tilla Kari Madrassa
• Sherdor Madrassa
• Ulugbek Madrassa
• Bibi Khanym Mausoleum
• Gur e Amir Mausoleum
• Amur Timur Statue

Uzbekistan’s capital Tashkent isn’t as flashy as say Nur-Sultan and has a much more provincial feel to it. Old Russian wooden houses line the sleepy suburbs, and the centre is home to a decent selection of parks, museums, restaurants and bars.

Top thing to see and do in Tashkent

• Tashkent Old Town
• Amur Timur Museum
• Assumption Orthodox Cathedral
• Climb the TV Tower
• See the massive soviet Hotel Uzbekistan

Termiz is a small town right on the border with Afghanistan, across the Amu Darya (Oxus) River. The place has a very wild west feel to it and is a haven for smugglers taking contraband in and out of the war-torn country. There are also a lot of troops stationed nearby. For those heading to Mazar-i-Sharif, this is where you will cross the border.

Top thing to see and do in Termiz

• Amu Darya River
• Friendship Bridge
• Hakan Al Termizi Mausoleum

See the Uzbekistan page for more information.

Central Asia Travel – Getting Around

One of the best things about backpacking Central Asia is that public transport is cheap and there is a good network making travelling to and from each of the countries very easy.

In the future, we can expect the land borders to open again making Central Asia travel a lot easier. There are train, bus and marshrutka routes crossing between all of the Stans.

Below are some of the main routes:

• 1. Almaty to Bishkek
• 2. Almaty to Tashkent
• 3. Almaty to Urumqi
• 4. Urumqi to Almaty

Money and Costs

With the exception of Turkmenistan, Central Asia travel is inexpensive by world standards. Travel, accommodation and food are all much cheaper than in Europe or the USA.

A budget of $40 per day is fine for backpacking Central Asia if you will be staying in hostels, travelling by slow trains/bus and eating at modest establishments.

A budget of $60 would allow for a cheap but comfortable hotel room, travelling by fast train (in Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan) and eating at more upmarket places.

Money-Saving Tips for Backpacking Central Asia

Central Asia has plenty of hostels in the larger cities and prices start at around $12.00 per night. In the smaller towns it’s possible to get a hotel room for the same price as a hostel, though it may be very basic. See Trip.com for some great deals on accommodation.

In Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan, the old slow trains can cost up to 60% less than a ticket on the new fast trains and are perfectly comfortable for an overnight journey outside of the summer (no air-con).

Long-distance buses make a good alternative to the trains and ply many of the same routes.

Food in Central Asia

Food in Central Asia is pretty heavy with lots of meat and lots of carbs. Plov (pilov) which is a dish made of rice, meat and carrots can be found across the region alongside staples such as shashlik (grilled skewers of lamb, chicken or horse) and assorted pastry dishes.

Horse meat is widely consumed in Kazakhstan and lamb is popular across Central Asia. Off the beaten track and in nomadic communities you will find goat meat in many dishes.

For vegetarians and vegans it’s not all bad news, as you can find fresh fruits, vegetables, nuts and pulses in the bazaars. There are also many different types of bread baked across the region (in Uzbekistan especially, bread is considered sacred so try not to drop it).

As well as traditional foods dating back to nomadic times, you will also find a lot of Russian dishes in Central Asia.

Some famous Central Asian dishes include:

• Plov – rice with meat (usually lamb and sometimes goat) and carrots
• Shashlik – grilled meat skewers, usually served with raw onion and dill
• Beshbarmak – boiled noodles and meat (lamb or horse)
• Manti – dumplings stuffed with meat and vegetables
• Lagman – a dish of noodles, meat and vegetables
• Samsa – meat pastry a little like a samosa
• Kovurma – finely chopped meat fried in its own fat

Central Asia Hostels

Sky Hostel, Almaty

Apple Hotel, Bishkek

When is the Best Time to Travel in Central Asia?

The skiing season runs from November until late March, but Shymbulak is a great destination all year round. Outside of winter the area is perfect for outdoor activities from hiking and picnics to horse riding.

Remember that the temperature will be a lot colder than in the city, even in summer.

Is Central Asia Safe?

Central Asia is a wild region with huge distances between cities. Although the roads are steadily improving and the old soviet era trains are being replaced with new rolling stock, the infrastructure remains behind that of most western countries.

Central Asia is overall a very safe place to travel, but the deserts and mountains can pose a hazard for unprepared tourists. Ensure you have comprehensive travel insurance cover before departing and if you will be heading into the mountains to ski or hike be sure that these activities are covered.

If hiking in spring and summer there is a danger from ticks carrying encephalitis and other diseases. These can be found across the region and particularly in the Almaty area.

Our partners at SafetyWing provide cover for travellers, backpackers and Digital Nomads. Get a quote here and ensure you have the proper cover for your trip.

Security Situation

Update February 2022: In January 2022 violent protests erupted across Kazakhstan, notably in the western city of Aktau and the former capital Almaty. Russian and other peacekeeping troops were sent in to help quell the violence. Thankfully as of February, things have calmed down and the peacekeeping forces have been withdrawn.

Avoid any and all political gatherings, protests and large crowds.

Update May 2021: In early May 2021 there was sporadic fighting around the Kyrgyz and Tajik border leaving 19 people dead, avoid the Batken area. Tensions at the Kyrgyz and Uzbek border mean this is also closed to foreigners. If you plan on travelling in Central Asia at the present time then flying between countries is the only safe option.

I’ve travelled Central Asia many times over the past four years and the only scam I ever fall foul of (repeatedly) is where taxi drivers demand double, triple, or in some cases 10x what was agreed. This seems to be worse the farther off the beaten track you are (such as Aktau & Aral in Kazakhstan and Termiz in Uzbekistan). It’s certainly less of a problem in the larger cities. You can read more in my guide to safety in Kazakhstan .

Try and avoid exchanging currencies at the borders unless you can check the rate online and make sure you count everything as those dear old babushkas aren’t as innocent as they look.

Packing List for Central Asia Travel

Sturdy backpack

Hiking boots

Lifestraw or filter bottle

Swiss Army Knife *

Lightweight tent

Warm layers

Waterproofs

Travel adapter

First aid kit

Personal medication**

*You won’t be able to take a Swiss Army Knife into China’s Xinjiang Province, but the rest of Central Asia should be fine.

**Uzbekistan has tight rules on what medicines can be brought into the country. Check this list before you pack!

Further Reading

Check out my list of the Best Travel Memoirs , many of which include journeys through Central Asia. Below are some particularly good choices.

Shadow of the Silk Road – Colin Thubron

In Xanadu – William Dalrymple

In Search of Kazakhstan – Christopher Robbins

The Travels of Marco Polo – Rustichello da Pisa

We hope you have found this guide to backpacking Central Asia and the Stans useful. Now really is the best time to discover this often-overlooked region!

Frequently Asked Questions

Central Asia usually refers to the five former Soviet “Stans” of Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan. Parts of Afghanistan, China and Mongolia can also be considered to fall within Central Asia.

Islam is the dominant religion across the region. Due to the sizable Russian population of Central Asia, Orthodox Christianity is also practiced as well as Buddhism and Shamanism.

Each of the Stans has its own Turkic language, with Russian widely used and understood (and in the cases of Kazakhstan, and Kyrgyzstan is recognized as the official language alongside Kazakh and Kyrgyz).

Most of the countries within Central Asia are very safe with low levels of crime against foreigners. Obviously, Afghanistan is an exception and fighting can spill over the borders, so these areas should be avoided.

About the author: Steve Rohan is a writer from Essex, England. He has traveled to over 60 countries, lived in Armenia, China and Hong Kong, and is now living the digital nomad life on the road.

Steve prefers “slow travel” and has covered much of the world by train, bus and boat. He has been interviewed multiple times by the BBC and recently featured in the documentary Scariest Places in the World . See the About page for more info.

Where I am now: Yerevan, Armenia 🇦🇲

2 thoughts on “ Backpacking Central Asia – A Guide to the Stans for 2023 ”

Traveling to any of the Stans really offer a great sense of adventure. Thanks for the money saving tips. It would be more interesting though if you include some pics. But still a great post overall.

Thank you for your comment Sharon! Initially I included lots of photos but then the pages load slower so I’m trying to find the right balance. I’ll look to adding a few more though! Best wishes, Steve

Comments are closed.

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Our Complete Central Asia Itinerary

25 April 2018.

Planning your own Central Asia itinerary? Here you’ll find the outline of our own adventure and the best places to hit and miss on your own trip. 

Wedged between China, Russia, Iran and Afghanistan, Central Asia or ‘the ‘stans’ are slowly gaining momentum as the next big travel destination.

Striking mountains and the boundless desert set the scene for epic hikes and bucket list worthy road trips, while harsh Soviet cities and dazzling silk road masterpieces weave together fragments of this region’s fascinating and often brutal past.

There are so many ways to travel through Central Asia and at a first glance it can all feel a little overwhelming, and that’s before things like transport logistics and visas get thrown into the mix. But things are changing slowly with the relaxing of entry requirements and constantly improving tourist infrastructure meaning it’s never been a better time to visit.

We spent almost four months in Central Asia guided by the changing seasons and chopping and changing plans on a whim as new and exciting destinations popped up on our radar. We were forced to skip over a number of places that sat high on our list for the simple reason that there was no reasonable or affordable way to get there.

We lost far too much time in the cities merely because they provided the comforts of home we had been craving and a decent wifi connection to catch up on work. In short, our trip didn’t always unfold in the most logical of ways, but it was pretty amazing nonetheless.

Need some help in planning your own adventure? This was our complete Central Asia itinerary, where we went, where we loved, what we wished we’d done differently and where is earmarked for next time around.

* This post includes affiliate links and any purchases made through these links will earn me a small commission at no extra cost to you. *

Entry + Exit Point  |   Almaty, Kazakhstan

Duration  |  This route took us 3.5 months or 110 days – 25 in Kazakhstan, 47 in Kyrgyzstan, 22 in Tajikistan, 14 in Uzbekistan and a final 2 days in Kazakhstan before flying out. In the capital cities, we made use of the decent wifi to catch up on work and so generally spent far more time there than was strictly necessary. For those with less time, this route could absolutely be condensed into a shorter period or chopped to leave out one country or another altogether.

Time of Year  |  We arrived in Almaty in mid-July at the height of summer and left in early November when the leaves had fallen from the trees and snow covered the mountains. The seasons heavily dictated our route and ultimately, this was probably the best time frame for this length of trip and itinerary. Yes, the cities were excruciatingly hot but the mountains were lush green and comfortable for hiking while the Uzbek desert offered up cool autumn days.

Countries Covered  |  Of the 5 Stans, Turkmenistan was the one we didn’t make it to. For this trip, the difficulty in obtaining a visa just didn’t seem worth the hassle for the very limited number of travel days allowed if approved. Plus, there was so much we were excited to see in the remaining countries that it didn’t feel like we were missing out.

25 days   |   July + August

Our journey through Central Asia began in Kazakhstan, between the leafy boulevards and bustling markets of its former capital,  Almaty , incidentally a perfect place to begin your own trip through the region.

After getting lost in the Green Bazaar, touring the city’s churches and parks, gorging on the fantastic international cuisine on offer and enjoying a sunset from Kok Tobe, we took a day trip to the mountains to enjoy the hiking near Medeu and Shymbulak. There are a variety of trails leading to waterfalls and spectacular viewpoints, though our favourite was the fairly challenging Four Peaks Trail .

Once you’ve had your fill of the city, head east toward the desert where you’ll find the burnt orange Charyn Canyon  and the brilliant blue oasis of  Kolsai Lakes and Lake Kaindy . Though transport in these parts is a little tricky, it’s well worth staying overnight to give you a little more time to explore.

If bright city lights are your thing, don’t miss the sparkling metropolis of Nur-Sultan (formerly Astana) in the country’s north along with a day or weekend trip to the lakes at nearby Borovoe National Park . In truth, our main reason for heading north was to attend the Astana Expo but otherwise we’d probably have skipped this area in favour of exploring the beautiful landscapes of the south instead.

Kazakhstan Itinerary  |  Almaty  – Charyn Canyon – Kolsai Lakes – Saty + Lake Kaindy – Almaty – Astana – Borovoe National Park – Astana – Almaty

Border Crossings  |  Flew in direct with Air Astana from Beijing and left via the Kordai crossing on the marshrutka between Almaty and Bishkek.

Highlights  |  Almaty, Kolsai Lakes, Lake Kaindy and Charyn Canyon

Next Time  |  Kazakhstan is enormous and there were a number of places that fell off our itinerary purely based on price and logistics. Multi-days tours were often wildly expensive and with few other tourists to share the costs with, we often struggled to justify the high prices and instead chose to splurge on the bucket-list items later in the trip like the Pamir Highway and Peak Lenin. With a bigger budget or simply more time to spend in the south, places on the list for next time would include Altyn Emel National Park, Altay Mountains, Mangistau, Turkestan and Aksu-Zhabagly Nature Reserve. The Baikonur Cosmodrome could also be an interesting addition if your trip coincides with a rocket launch.

Things We’d Change  |  In hindsight, we’d probably skip over Astana as it didn’t quite win us over and the long travel time to and from Almaty left us needing a few days to recover. Instead, we’d have used the time to visit some of the places mentioned above or take the Karkara Valley border crossing between Charyn Canyon and Karakol, Kyrgyzstan instead of backtracking to Almaty.

Things To Do In Nur-Sultan: Kazakhstan’s City of Lights

A Complete Guide To Charyn Canyon | Kazakhstan’s Mini Grand Canyon

The Best Things To Do In Almaty | Kazakhstan

Kolsai Lakes and Lake Kaindy: Everything You Need To Know To Plan Your Trip

Things To Do In Burabay | Kazakhstan

The Four Peaks Trail: Our Favourite Hike Near Almaty

47 days   |   august + september.

After more than a week of catching up on work in Bishkek, enjoying the cafe scene and eating our body weight in Korean fried chicken, it was time to hit the trails.

In a country that’s more than 90 per cent mountains, prepare to be doing a lot of hiking. From Karakol, the popular 3-day trek to turquoise Alakol Lake and the rejuvenating hot springs at Altyn Arashan is a good place to start. For something truly off the beaten path, explore the trails around Jyrgalan before setting off for the ochre rockface of Jeti-Oguz and its lush Valley of Flowers.

Mountain antics aside, be sure to allocate some time for relaxation along the southern shores of Issyk Kul. The tiny villages dotted around the lake provide a tranquil setting to slip into a slower pace. Choose one and stay a while or hop your way along the shoreline. I chose to spend my time in tiny Tosor in the hopes of visiting Fairy Tale Canyon and the Barskoon Valley, but Tamga and Kaji Say also sound like decent options.

From Bishkek make your way toward Osh by taxi, flight or overnight cargo bus and either head to Arslanbob to enjoy the shade of the world’s largest walnut grove or make a beeline for the Pamir Highway .

Our final night in Kyrgyzstan spent at Tulparkul Lake in the shadow of Peak Lenin and amidst a sea of rolling hills and shimmering lakes was one of the highlights of our time in Central Asia.

Kyrgyzstan Itinerary   |  Bishkek – Karakol – Jyrgalan – Alakol and Altyn Arashan Trek – Karakol – Jeti Oguz – Tosor – Bishkek – Osh – Arslanbob – Osh – Tulpar Kul Lake

Border Crossings  |  Arrived by marshrutka through the Kordai crossing between Almaty and Bishkek and left via the Kyzylart Pass between Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan

Highlights  |  hiking in the mountains around Karakol, southern shore of Issyk Kul Lake, Tulpar Kul Lake

Next Time  |  Kyrgyzstan is experiencing something of a tourism revolution with spectacular new destinations being added to the map every few months along with better tourist infrastructure. A few I’d love to check out are Kol Suu, Son Kul, Ala Archa National Park and Karavshin Gorge. There were also a number of places I’d love to have spent more time, such as the many villages along the southern shore of Issyk Kul and the stunning mountains at Sary Moghul and Tulpar KuI.

Things We’d Change  |  Despite being in the midst of the walnut harvest season, a bad spring meant the forests around Arslanbob were somewhat disappointing. If you’re planning to visit, definitely check up on the situation before arriving.

Climbing Lenin Peak: The Mountain, The Mystique and The Very Misleading

Hiking to Alakol and Altyn Arashan Without A Guide

Walnuts and Waterfalls: The Best Things To Do In Arslanbob | Kyrgyzstan

A Short Guide To Jeti-Oguz | Kyrgyzstan

Hiking in Jyrgalan, Getting Off The Beaten Path in Kyrgyzstan

22 days   |   september.

The Pamir Highway is the road trip of a lifetime and should absolutely be on your Central Asia itinerary.

From Osh, Tulparkul Lake on the Kyrgyzstan side is an ideal starting point and one of the most spectacular places we’ve ever seen. From there, trace the lonely road through the Pamir Mountains past mirrorlike lakes, jagged peaks and the verdant knot of the Wakhan Valley. Throw in a few high altitude hikes and a collection of remote mountain villages and you’re in for one hell of an adventure.

We opted to head away from the classic route, travelling instead to Rangkul and Jarty Gumbez before weaving through the Wakhan Valley and onwards to Khorog and Dushanbe . We spent about 10 days in Dushanbe relaxing, working and organising our Uzbek visas but ordinarily one or two days in the city is enough, especially as Uzbek visas can now be done online.

Truth be told, we found Tajikistan much harder to get around than the other countries in Central Asia and by this point in the trip the travel fatigue was definitely starting to creep in. Almost every destination required a 4WD taxi that may or may not be going on a certain day, was generally rather expensive and came with the extra hassle of negotiating fares. The Pamir Highway was absolutely incredible, but these other factors certainly limited our willingness to explore much further afield.

Tajikistan Itinerary  |  Pamir Highway via Wakhan Valley – Khorog – Dushanbe (see exact itinerary here )

Border Crossings  |  Arrived via the Kyzylart Pass between Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan and left into Uzbekistan at the Turnisoda/Denau crossing. In 2018, the Penjikent border was finally reopened and is now the much better option for travelling between Dushanbe and Samarkand.

Highlights  |  Pamir Highway

Next Time  |  The Fann Mountains and Bartang Valley are definitely on the cards.

The Best Things To Do In Dushanbe | 24 Hours In Tajikistan’s Capital

16 Useful Things To Know Before Driving The Pamir Highway

An Epic 10-Day Itinerary For The Pamir Highway

14 days   |   october.

From the stark mountains to the riches of the ancient silk road. Immaculate blue mosaics, soaring minarets and rambling alleyways unite the main cities of Uzbekistan, though each reveals a unique character of its own.

Marvel at the enormous madrassas of Samarkand and the narrow corridors of Shah-i-Zinda before moving onto the bright chambers and leafy plazas of Bukhara . While these cities are the most famous, understated and often overlooked Khiva was our favourite of the lot.

Uzbekistan Itinerary  |  Samarkand – Bukhara – Khiva – Tashkent

Border Crossings  |  Travelled to Samarkand via at the Turnisoda/Denau crossing from Dushanbe, though these days the Penjikent border is the much better option. Left on the overnight fast train between Tashkent and Almaty.

Highlights  |  Samarkand, Bukhara and Khiva, as well as the refreshing change in cuisine.

Next Time  |  The environmental devastation of the Aral Sea and the remaining cargo ships in the desert.

Exploring Samarkand, The Magnificent Ancient Kingdom Of Uzbekistan’s Silk Road

A Short Guide To Bukhara | Uzbekistan’s Holiest City

A Short Guide To Khiva: Our Favourite Town on Uzbekistan’s Silk Road

If planning our itinerary through Central Asia left us scratching our heads, then trying to figure out the best way to actually get there took us to new realms of confusion.

An initial search on Skyscanner offered up the best flight routes as 40+ hour ordeals from Sydney with no less than three pointless layovers in random cities across China (that would require an extra visa) before finally touching down in the ‘Stans at a cost higher than a month’s rent each. No thanks! With no logic behind the options that were provided, I decided to ditch the search engines and instead set about mixing and matching every possible combination of flights between Sydney and destinations in Asia or the Middle East that offered direct connections to Central Asia.

Truth be told, depending on where you’re arriving from, there may be very little choice of flights. In general, Almaty is served by a wide range of airlines making it an excellent and economical arrival point, while Kyrgyzstan’s growing popularity makes Bishkek the next best option. Tashkent, Dushanbe and Ashgabat still have very limited international flights and are served by few airlines.

From Australia, it worked out much cheaper to book our flights separately. This also allowed much better connections than those offered on any of the search engines and with more reputable airlines. From Sydney, we flew to Beijing with Qantas for a 5-hour layover before changing to Air Astana direct to Almaty. Air Astana’s widening network across Asia makes it a good choice from most major hubs in the region.

From the Americas, virtually everyone I met had arrived via Istanbul with Turkish Airlines or via Moscow with Aeroflot, both of which offer easy connections at competitive prices.

Getting to Central Asia from Europe is easy with direct flights from a number of capital cities, particularly during summer. Low-cost airline Pegasus is generally the cheapest option with regular flights to Europe via Istanbul year round.

Start looking at flight options on Skyscanner here.

Overlanding your way from Asia or Europe? It’s possible to cross into Central Asia from all neighbouring countries, though China, Iran and Russia are the most common entry/exit points and all require special visas.

If you’re travelling the Trans Siberian Railway , it’s also possible to travel across the border into Kazakhstan, but you’ll need a double entry visa if you intend on returning to Russia.

At Central Asia’s far eastern point, where the sprawling desert runs into the Caspian Sea, it’s possible to leave by ferry. Running on an unpredictable and highly changeable schedule, ferries depart from Aktau in Kazakhstan and Turkmenbashi in Turkmenistan for Azerbaijan and Russia. See this guide for more info.

Central Asia Travel : A Complete Beginner’s Guide To Travelling The Silk Road

The Ultimate Packing Guide For Central Asia

A Quick Guide To The Visas You’ll Need For Central Asia

Hi, this is incredible. It’s so helpful, I can’t thank you enough. I wanted to know if you got around okay with just English, or if there’s a language barrier, and what you did to overcome it.

So glad it was helpful for you! I did manage to get by, but there is definitely a language barrier and outside of the major cities and touristy towns you’ll find very few people who speak English. I would definitely recommend learning the Cyrillic alphabet and downloading Google Translate with the Russian dictionary as it’s very widely spoken in all countries. Of course, this isn’t foolproof and I had many locals in small rural villages type things in their local dialect or the national language which wouldn’t translate, but generally, people were so friendly and keen to help that you just muddle your way through. A good attitude, a smile and some charades are always a good place to start. Learning at least a few key phrases will also be a big help!

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Newly updated 2024-2025 160+ page digital Catalog now available!

Journey Through Central Asia: The Five ’Stans

Photo credit: Michel Behar

A Classic Silk Road Survey

The “5 ‘Stans” of Central Asia – Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan – are a treasure trove of history, culture, and natural beauty. Marvel at the ancient cities of Samarkand and Bukhara, admire the majestic mountains of Kyrgyzstan, and explore the stunning capital of Turkmenistan. More than 2,000 years ago, the great trade routes linking Europe and China opened Central Asia to foreign cultures, customs, and religions. Join a modern-day caravan on an epic journey to five of these exotic countries.

Travels to: Kazakhstan ,  Kyrgyzstan ,  Uzbekistan ,  Tajikistan , Turkmenistan

Begin in and around Almaty, the quickly modernizing business capital of Kazakhstan, beautifully situated amid the majestic Tien Shan mountain range. Cross into Kyrgyzstan and spend two nights at beautiful alpine Lake Issyk-Kul before exploring Kyrgyzstan’s capital, Bishkek.

• Central Almaty’s Panfilov Park, home to the candy-colored Zenkov Cathedral
• A demonstration of traditional Kazakh falconry in the Tien Shan foothills
• A boat ride on Lake Issyk-Kul
• Iron Age petroglyphs at Cholpan-Ata, near Lake Issyk-Kul
• Burana Tower, one of few remaining Silk Road watchtowers in Kyrgyzstan
• In Bishkek, an evening performance of selections from the Epic of Manas, a traditional Kyrgyz poem

Fly to Kyrgystan’s second-largest city, Osh, located in the lush Fergana Valley, which spans three of the five ’Stans. From there ascend UNESCO-listed Sulaiman-Too Sacred Mountain, one of the holiest Islamic sites in Central Asia. In the Uzbek portion of the valley, visit Margilan and Rishtan, villages specializing in silks and ceramics. Cross the border into Tajikistan for an overnight in historic Khujand.

• Sulaiman-Too Sacred Mountain, an Islamic holy site known as “Little Mecca”
• Visits to Margilan’s market and the workshop of one of its silk makers
• Lunch and a workshop tour with a ceramics master in Rishtan Village
• Khujand’s huge, pink Panjshanbe covered bazaar

The Uzbek portion of the trip starts in the capital of Tashkent and then devotes seven nights to three spectacular UNESCO-listed Silk Road oasis cities: blue-tiled Samarkand, once Tamerlane’s seat of power; Bukhara, site of the 2,000-year-old Ark Citadel; and Khiva, with its classic winding alleys and distinctive dun-colored walls. Then travel through the Kyzyl Kum (Red Sands) desert to the remote city of Nukus, the unlikely home of the world-class Savitsky Museum of avant-garde Russian art.

• The wide, tree-lined boulevards of modern Tashkent
• Samarkand’s Registan Square, bordered by three beautiful madrassahs
• The 14th century conqueror Tamerlane’s architectural legacy in Samarkand, including Bibi Khanum Mosque, the largest of its day, and Ulug Nek Observatory
• Old Bukhara’s ageless domed bazaars and its central Lyab-i-Hauz Plaza, adorned with a reflecting pool
• Ark Citadel, Bukhara’s huge 2,000-year-old fortress
• Khiva’s Old Town, known as Ichon-Qala, a “living museum” that looks much as it did centuries ago
• Tash-Hauli Palace and Dzhuma Mosque, two of Khiva’s most impressive structures
• Savitsky Art Museum, the world’s second largest collection of Russian avant-garde art

Cross into Turkmenistan and visit the UNESCO-listed Old Town of Kunya Urgench, then board a flight to the capital, Ashgabat, a city of flamboyant gilded architecture born from the rubble of a massive 1948 earthquake. A four-night-stay there includes day trips to two UNESCO-listed ancient cities: Nisa, once capital of the Parthian Empire; and Merv, an oasis that supported human life as far back as the Iron Age.

• Kunya Urgench’s 11th century Kutlug-Timur Minaret, standing 190 feet tall and decorated with intricate mud brickwork
• The opulent new architecture of Ashgabat, which holds a Guinness record for highest density of white marble buildings in the world
• The $100-million Kipchak Mosque, with its 164-foot golden dome and room for 10,000 worshippers, located just outside Ashgabat
• The ruins of Nisa’s two fortresses, which show influences of ancient Greek and Roman culture
• A trip outside Ashgabat to a farm that breeds renowned Akhal-Tekke horses

Stay a little longer and venture across the desert landscape north of the capital to the Darvaza Gas Crater, one of Turkmenistan’s most unusual sights. Remnants of the Soviet era, one of the craters has been set alight and blazes with an incredible strength that’s visible from miles away. The fire crater is best seen at night, so spend the night in a comfortable yurt camp here, before heading back to Ashgabat the next morning.

• Flaming gas crater that has been burning for 30+ years
• Take in the night’s crystal clear stars in this remote desert environment

Dates & Prices

Small group tour – max 16 travelers

Land tour price, per person. Based on double occupancy and minimum group size of 5 travelers.

• 2024 Dates Apr 6 - 27 Trip led by veteran tour manager Michel Behar Apr 13 - May 4 May 4 - 25 Trip led by veteran tour manager Michel Behar Aug 31 - Sept 21 Sold out! Sept 14 - Oct 5 Sold out! Oct 5 - 26 Sold out! Oct 12 - Nov 2 New departure added! Tour, double occupancy $8,495 Plus internal airfare $380 Single supplement $1,425
• 2025 Dates Apr 5 - 26 Apr 12 - May 3 May 3 - 24 Sept 13 - Oct 4 Oct 4 - 25 Tour, double occupancy $8,695 Plus internal airfare $435 Single supplement $1,450

What's Included

• Accommodations, as noted in the itinerary.
• Most meals, as noted in the itinerary: 21 breakfasts, 20 lunches and 16 dinners.
• Bottled water at group meals.
• Restaurant tips for included meals.
• Services of experienced, English-speaking local guides, drivers and other staff, including a MIR Tour Manager.
• Arrival/departure airport transfers. MIR will arrange for all travelers to be met on arrival and seen off on departure whether we make your airfare arrangements or not, provided you arrive and depart on the tour start/end dates in the tour start/end cities.
• Ground transportation throughout itinerary by private coach or van (size of vehicle depends on group size).
• Guided sightseeing tours and entrance fees as outlined in itinerary.
• Special events, excursions and cultural performances per the itinerary.
• Baggage handling where available.
• Gratuities to local guides, drivers, porters and other service personnel.
• Complete pre-departure electronic document that includes detailed packing suggestions, reading list links, country-specific information, maps, travel tips and more.
• Customized visa application and instruction kit (please note, visa fees are not included in the tour price).
• Electronic final update bulletin, with any late news, updates and important information.
• Internal airfare (internal airfare is quoted separately and is subject to change by airlines).
• International airfare or taxes/fuel surcharges.
• Meals not specified as included in the itinerary.
• Single supplement charge, if requested or required.
• Items of a personal nature (phone calls, email, laundry, alcohol, excess baggage, etc).
• Gratuities to Tour Manager.
• Visa/passport fees, airport departure fees.
• Expenses incurred as a result of delay, modification or extension of a tour due to causes beyond MIR’s control.
• Travel entry pass to Turkmenistan payable on arrival, currently $12-$15, subject to change.
• Travel and trip cancellation insurance.

Activity Level

Level 3: Medium

This small group tour features long days walking and standing while touring, several long days of overland travel (some on poor quality roads), lengthy foot traverses of two border points while rolling your own luggage (with occasional carrying), unpaved sidewalks and streets, uneven surfaces and steps, absent handrails, significant stair-climbing, and absence of elevators. Only those fit to travel and who are willing to accept local standards of amenities and services, and the physical challenges, should consider joining this program.

Travelers must be able to walk at least two miles a day, keeping up with fellow travelers. A few drives on poor-quality roads may last as long as 8-10 hours driving time (with comfort stops). Some border crossings may require walking up to about a half-mile while managing your own baggage. Bags can generally be rolled during border crossings, but may have to be carried short distances in the case of uneven surfaces or a few steps up or down during the crossing.

There are overall shortcomings in the tourism infrastructure of these developing destinations, including some that can cause walking challenges such as unpaved sidewalks, uneven surfaces and steps, packed-dirt streets, broken pavement (streets or sidewalks), and a general absence of handrails or ramps. Some attractions are only accessible via steep staircases with tall uneven steps – these can also be spiral staircases and/or in narrow passages with limited light. Elevators are not available at touring sights, nor at a few of the hotels.

Past travelers have also encountered challenges with plumbing, bureaucratic service, variety of locally available foods, and availability and quality of public restrooms.

Accommodations vary from three to five star properties, to relatively basic and simple (while still best-available) hotels in the more remote cities.

• 1/16 Local women in Uzbekistan. Phil Kidd
• 2/16 Musicians in Kazakhstan. Hermann Esser
• 3/16 A Kyrgyz herder near Lake Issyk-Kul, Kyrgyzstan. Michel Behar
• 4/16 Weaving silk textile in the workshop, Margilan, Uzbekistan. Michel Behar
• 5/16 Fergana Valley ceramicist at work in Uzbekistan. Michel Behar
• 6/16 Khudayar Khan's Palace in Kokand, Uzbekistan. Michel Behar
• 7/16 Sherdor Madrassah in Registan Square, Samarkand. Suresh Mehta
• 8/16 Tombs at Shah-i Zinde in Samarkand, Uzbeksitan. Michel Behar
• 9/16 Samarkand Uzbekistan's Registan at night. Michel Behar
• 10/16 Newlyweds in Bukhara, Uzbekistan. Abdu Samadov
• 11/16 Mir-i Arab Madrassah in Bukhara, Uzbekistan. Jered Gorman
• 12/16 MIR traveler socializing with local women in Uzbekistan. Phil Kidd
• 13/16 Bukhara's Samani Mausoleum. Michel Behar
• 14/16 Khiva Uzbekistan's Old Town walls. Michel Behar
• 15/16 Karakalpak performers in Nukus, Uzbekistan. Michel Behar
• 16/16 Ashgabat Turkmenistan's glittering statues. Michel Behar

Want all the details in one handy package? Download the full itinerary below.

Stay a little longer....

Many travelers choose to extend their Journey Through Central Asia program by adding one or more pre-tour nights in Almaty; a visit to Nur-Sultan, Kazakhstan’s capital; or adding a few extra post-tour nights in Turkmenistan to see the Darvaza crater. Select departures of this tour are specifically timed to coincide with MIR’s Treasures of the South Caucasus tour.

Or, choose from one of these suggested itineraries:

• Small Group 15 Days From $8,495 Treasures of the South Caucasus Departures: 2024 (2), 2025 (4)
• Build Your Own Design Your Own Trip to Kazakhstan Traveling privately on a custom program means flexibility.
• Build Your Own Design Your Own Trip to Kyrgyzstan Traveling privately on a custom program means flexibility.
• Build Your Own Design Your Own Trip to Tajikistan Traveling privately on a custom program means flexibility.
• Build Your Own Design Your Own Trip to Turkmenistan Traveling privately on a custom program means flexibility.

Traveler Reviews

San Francisco, CA

M. & S. Zimmer

Scottsdale, AZ

Stories To Inspire

Enthralling uzbekistan: our favorite things to see & do, what to know before you go: kazakhstan, ashgabat: turkmenistan’s lavish capital of marble and gold, request a detailed itinerary.

Let the trip planning begin! Enjoy immediate access to a PDF of a detailed itinerary for this trip.

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Central Asia: Five Stans Express

24 days | explore the five stans on an incredible central asian adventure of history, nature and culture.

Start in the grand Ashgabat of Turkmenistan, explore Samarkand in Uzbekistan, head to Tajikistan, Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan – yep, that’s a total of five Stans! See the best of the Silk Road and deep dive into the fascinating history, captivating landscapes and beautiful culture that is intertwined throughout this region. You'll stay in yurts near Lake Issykul, explore Registan square in Samarkand and discover Darvaza Crater, a 70-metre wide hole in the Karakum Desert that is permanently aflame (yes, you read that right). And that’s just a few of the highlights of this trip! There’s so much to see, do and learn in this region, you’ll constantly find yourself surprised and delighted on this 24-day adventure through Central Asia.

Trip overview

• This trip explores the essential highlights of Central Asia and uncovers culture, nature and history while meeting some of the most hospitable people in the world
• With breathtaking scenery at every turn, you’ll discover the incredible Darvaza Crater, Kolsai Lakes and Issykul Lake
• Take a step back in time as you explore the Silk Road history and visit Khiva ancient town, Registan in Samarkand, Bukhrara, and Khujand
• Get to know the locals as you visit a carpet-making workshop, meet a local eagle trainer (or Berkutchi), rub shoulders with the locals in the bustling bazaars and test your taste buds in a dinner of home-cooked plov (Uzbekistan's national dish)
• Enjoy special stays like sleeping in yurts near Lake Issykul, staying in local villages and making yourself at home in a boutique hotel that used to be an old Jewish house in Bukhara
• This trip explores the best of Central Asia in a short time, covering a lot of ground. If you want to be far, far away from everywhere and experience the key highlights of Central Asia – this trip is for you.
• In true adventure style, the trip involves some long travel days by private vehicle. The road may be bumpy and dusty, but the experience and the journey will be rewarding. This is a great opportunity to sit back, unwind and let the sweeping views roll by. Drives range from 3 to 10 hours in duration. Though the longer travel days and single night overnight stays can be tiring, you'll be in a private vehicle, and much of the scenery in this part of the world is simply stunning.
• You’ll experience varying temperatures in the desert and out on the steppe or in the mountains from below zero to over 40 ºC, so check the weather forecast online before you visit and pack accordingly.
• Tourism is strictly controlled in Turkmenistan, with Letters of Invitation needed in advance in order to apply for your visa (which you can then get on arrival) and guides tending to be protective of what tourists see and fiercely proud of their nation and its leaders. Those used to more freedom of exploration and tour guides with a more global perspective may find their experience here different from in other destinations. Please see the ‘Passport and visas’ section of the Essential Trip Information for more details.
• Be prepared to experience the full legacy of the Soviet era – not just in the sights and history, but also in the standards of accommodation and service! A range of different accommodations are used on this trip, including yurt camp, home stay, guesthouse, hotels and camping. The conditions at the camping, yurt stay and the home stays are basic with shared facilities. This means the group being split between different houses, multi-share rooms and the bathroom facilities are separated from your sleeping quarters. For the camping at the Darvaza Crater, sleeping bags, mattresses and tents are all provided, but there are no bathing or permanent toilet facilities at the campsite. You won't be able to take a shower every day on this trip.

View the itinerary for departures between 01 January 2025 - 31 December 2025

Welcome to Turkmenistan! Your adventure begins in the country’s capital of Ashgabat. This fascinating city is currently being transformed into a lavish, marble-lined oasis. You’ll find perfect parklands and manicured streets – a vast contrast to the rest of the ancient country we’re about to explore. We kick things off at 6 pm this evening with a welcome meeting where you’ll meet your fellow adventurers and group leader before going over a few details of your epic trip. Then, you’ll head out for dinner as a group, tucking into your first taste of Turkmenistan cuisine.

• Hotel (1 night)
• Ashgabat – Complimentary Arrival Transfer

It’s very important that you attend the welcome meeting as we will be collecting insurance details and next of kin information at this time. If you are going to be late please let your travel agent or hotel reception know. Ask reception or look for a note in the lobby for more information on where the meeting will take place.

Please note that tourism in Turkmenistan is controlled, so you can’t explore the city without a guide. Therefore, we don’t recommend spending extra time in Ashagabat.

Wake with excitement for your first day exploring this intriguing desert city. Your locally based leader will take you to the main sites to see. You’ll spend hours touring the city – and trust us, you’ll need every minute to soak up everything this place has to offer. You’ll marvel at the four-pointed minarets atop the Ertugrul Gazi Mosque and the extravagant Independence Monument. This sculpted park is filled with statues of Turkmen heroes (and controversial politicians) line the paths that lead to a golden dome and a (surprise!) massive minaret. From this lavish ode to Turkmen identity, continue to the Neutrality Arch, which despite its name has a provocative history. Then travel outside of the city to the Turkmenbashy Ruhi Mosque, the mausoleum of former Turkmen leader Saparmurat Niyazov, before heading further out of town to the ruins of Anau. The crumbling remains of the medieval mosque still attract the devout, who come to pray and make offerings. After an action-packed day full of sightseeing, the evening will be at leisure for you to explore (or simply relax) as you wish.

• Ashgabat - Ertugrul Gazi Mosque
• Ashgabat - Anau ruins
• Ashgabat - Independence Monument
• Ashgabat - Turkmenbashy Ruhi Mosque & Family Mausoleum of the First President of Turkmenistan
• Ashgabat - Neutrality Arch

Wake up without an alarm today – you've got a leisurely morning to explore Ashgabat at your will. In the afternoon, we’ll make tracks for Darvaza Gas Crater – an astounding 70 metre wide hole in the Karakum Desert that is permanently aflame (yes, you read that right). Soviet oil prospectors started drilling in this area in 1971, with the expectation of finding oil, when suddenly the ground collapsed to form the crater. Worried about the gas released into the air, they deliberately set the crater on fire to burn off the excess, expecting it to last a few weeks. As you’ll see today, they were wrong – the crater has been burning ever since. You’ll be treated to sunset over the crater, also known as the 'Door to Hell', from your nearby camp. Then, dig into a Turkmenistan-style barbecue dinner with your newfound travel companions before retiring to your tent for a night camping under the desert stars.

• Camping (1 night)
• Darvaza - "Door to Hell" Crater

Today’s travel time is approximately 4 - 5 hours.

Depending on the group size, the group may be split into more than one vehicle for our journey into the desert today. The road condition to Darvaza Crater is rough and bumpy but at the moment there's no other alternative route to take to get to the crater.

Tents, sleeping bags, and mattresses are provided. Please note this is simple camping, with no bathroom or toilet facilities available.

After breakfast at your desert camp oasis, we’ll hit the road enroute to Khiva – with a few sightseeing stops along the way, of course. Our first stop will be in Kunya Urgench, once a main hub of the Islamic world, it suffered destruction at the hands of Genghis Khan and the Timurid dynasty and fell into decay until the 20th century. Sporting plenty of monuments and interesting sites from the 11th to 16th centuries, you’ll explore a mosque, mausoleum and 60 metre Gutlug Timur Minaret in this interesting city. After a little time to explore, we’ll continue to the Turkmen/Uzbek border of Khodjeyli (Xo’jayli) and on to Khiva. On arrival in Khiva, you’ll have free time to get acquainted with the city before exploring in depth with your leader tomorrow.

• Konye-Urgench - City tour

Today’s travel time is approximately 5.5 hours. Please be aware, your tour leader may change today at the border. The border will close late afternoon, therefore we'll need to finish the border crossing before that. If we are pressed for time, then we may skip the city tour in Konye Urgench.

Today is for sightseeing – and trust us, you’re going to see a lot. So, strap on your best pair of walking shoes, have the camera fully charged and hit the streets with your local leader to guide the way. You can expect to see the magical blue-tiled Kalta Minor Minaret and the Mohammed Amin Khan Madressa. Then, explore the Kuhna Ark, the 'citadel within a citadel' which once housed the Khan and his family in the 17th century. You’ll visit the Pahlavon Mahmud Mausoleum, a complex constructed in honour of the famous 13th-century poet, craftsman and fighter – the mint-coloured dome that tops the main mausoleum is stunning. You’ll marvel at the towering Islom Hoja Minaret, the tallest building in Khiva. Explore Juma Mosque and see how the roof is propped up by 212 wooden columns designed to let in sunlight. Next, take a peek at Uzbek luxury – explore Tosh-Hovli Palace, built in the first half of the 19th century. Wander through elaborately decorated courtyards connected by labyrinthian corridors. We told you there’s plenty to see here and this is a big morning of sightseeing, so the afternoon is at your leisure.

• Khiva - Juma Mosque
• Khiva - Islom Hoja Minaret & Medressa
• Khiva - Tosh-Hovli Palace
• Khiva - Kunya Ark
• Khiva - Pahlavon Mahmud Mausoleum

Today’s requirements – a good book, fully charged phone or pair of trusty headphones, ideally all three! We have a big travel day ahead of us. You’ll arrive in Bukhara in Uzbekistan in the late afternoon, and the long drive will be forgotten as you’re swept up in the beautiful mosaics and incredible ancient monuments of this destination. Founded no later than the 1st century BC, across its many years, the city has been ruled by countless empires and dynasties which are reflected in the colourful culture here.

Today’s driving time is approximately 10 hours.

It’s time to explore all that Bukhara has to offer. You’ve got a full day of sightseeing ahead of you. First up, visit the Sitorai Mohi Khosa – once the summer palace of the last Bukharan emirs. Designed by Russian architects, it has interiors decorated with traditional filigree plaster, mirrored surfaces and delicate floral wall paintings crafted by local artisans. After some time to explore the palace, you’ll continue to the little-known, 16th-century Chor-Bakr necropolis. This complex was built in 1563 by a Shaybanid Dynasty ruler to memorialise his family – with a number of their graves found here, it’s also known as the ‘city of the dead’. You’ll wander through the madrasa and mosque, learn of the history here and marvel at the beautiful architecture and mosaic touches. Then in the afternoon, visit the Ark Fortress and Kalon Mosque before continuing to one of Central Asia's oldest and most exquisite structures – the tenth-century Ismail Samani Mausoleum. The superb decorative brickwork here has survived 1000 years of rugged history and the geometric architecture is recognised the world over. This evening, maybe have dinner in the LyabiHaus area, a busy 17th-century plaza featuring beautiful trees that are hundreds of years old. Later, you may want to wander the small craft studios tucked into the nearby madrasas and trading domes.

• Bukhara (1 night)
• Bukhara - Ark Fortress
• Bukhara - Chor Minor
• Bukhara - Bolo Hauz Mosque
• Bukhara - Kalon Minaret & Mosque
• Bukhara - Taki Zargaron Trading Dome
• Bukhara - Ulugbek Madrasa
• Bukhara - Lyabi-Hauz Plaza

This morning, you’ll jump aboard the high-speed train bound for Samarkand – located at the very centre of the ancient Silk Road. On arrival, you’ll have a little free time to get acquainted with the city and explore. You might like to check out the remains of the remarkable medieval observatory developed by Ulug Beg or perhaps visit the Afrosiab Museum of Samarkand, the main attraction of which is a tenth-century mural. After the day at your leisure, you’ll visit a local family to learn the secrets of plov cuisine during a cooking demonstration in the evening.

• Samarkand - Plov cooking demonstration & family visit

Today’s total travel time is approximately 2 hours.

It’s time to explore Samarkand with your group leader. First up is the Gur-Amir mausoleum where the great Uzbek conqueror, Tamerlane, is buried. From here, continue to a central square called the Registan, which features three of the most famous madrassahs in Uzbekistan - standing as true pinnacles of Islamic architecture. Then, you’ll visit the enormous Bibi Khanum Mosque and explore the ancient bazaar right behind it and maybe sample Khalva (local sweets made of sunflower seeds or peanuts) and get a glass, or two, of squeezed pomegranate juice (depending on the season). From here, a short stroll will take you to Shak-i-Zinda, a necropolis that features a series of gleaming, blue-tiled mausoleums. This sacred site has monuments from the 14th-19th century, reflecting the development of the monumental art and architecture of the Timurid dynasty onwards. You’ll be drawn to capture photos at every turn, just remember to be respectful as pilgrims still visit this complex.

• Samarkand - Shakh-I-Zinda
• Samarkand - Gur-e-Amir Mausoleum
• Samarkand - Bibi-Khanym Mosque
• Samarkand - Registan Square

Today, enjoy a free morning before you say goodbye to the magnificent Samarkand and jump back on the high-speed train around middday and head straight to Tashkent. Enjoy a free evening in this capital city, an interesting mixture of the reminiscence of Soviet time and its Uzbek traditions.

Follow your leader on a city walking tour - explore Amir Timur square at the city center, then hop on the metro for a tour in the station to see its extravagant decoration and then lose yourself in the exciting Chorsu Bazaar, browsing traditional wooden cradles, handmade musical instruments, and the extensive vegetable and spice markets. Then head over to the State History Museum to learn about the history of the country. Enjoy a free afternoon and maybe go and visit the Khast Imom complex, a restored series of religious buildings (including a mosque) and a library containing an ancient Qur’an, parts of which have been dated to the ninth century, or simply relax and enjoy some well deserved downtime.

• Tashkent - Chorsu Bazaar
• Tashkent - State Museum of History of Uzbekistan
• Tashkent - City tour
• Tashkent - Metro tour

After breakfast this morning, we’ll hit the road to the Oibek border to cross into Tajikistan before arriving in Khojand. This city is known as Alexandria Eskhata (Alexandria the furthest) and believed to have been founded by Alexander the Great in 6th century BC. You’ll get a chance to explore Khojand in the afternoon, with a visit to the fascinating history museum and an opportunity to wander around the bazaar and Jami Mosque. If you have any free time, you might like to visit Arbor palace – an example of soviet architecture of the 1950’s.

• Khujand - History Museum
• Khujand - Jami Mosque

Today’s total travel time is approximately 3 hours. The Oibek border crossing entails some walking between check points, make sure you have comfortable shoes and reasonably sized bags today.

This morning, you’ll take the epic drive across Shahriston pass (with an elevation of 3378m) to Iskanderkul Lake. Strap in, this is sure to be an exciting ride but don’t worry, your experienced driver is a pro when it comes to the twists and turns of this high-altitude highway. You’ll be delighted to arrive at Iskanderkul Lake, named after Alexander the Great, this place is a weekend destination for many locals from Dushanbe. You’ll get a chance to marvel at the local “Niagara” and Zmeinnoe Lake before continuing to Sary Tag – a mountain village on the other end of the lake in the heart of Fann mountains. This evening, you’ll have a little time to explore the village and truly discover the local way of life.

• Homestay (1 night)
• Sary Tag - Iskanderkul Lake

Today’s total travel time is approximately 6 hours

Your accommodation tonight is a homestay in the village. The group may be split between different houses depending on the group composition. While the rooms are multi-share and the facilities will be basic, your host’s hospitality will certainly be unforgettable.

This morning, we’ll hit the exciting mountain roads once more and drive over the Anzob Pass (with an elevation of 3373m) to Dushanbe – the capital of Tajikistan. After lunch, we’ll pay a visit to Hissor Fort, the former capital of Eastern Bukhara province. Explore this ancient fortress, located atop a hill overlooking the town of Hisor, and check out its impressive stone walls, commanding gateway and perfectly manicured gardens. Then, the afternoon is free for you to explore Dushanbe however you please, you might choose to explore one of the many parks or museums in the city.

• Dushanbe – Hissor Fort

Today’s total travel time is approximately 3 hours.

Today is made for a full day of sightseeing in Dushanbe with your locally based guide by your side. You’ll see Rudaki square, Ismail Somoni monument overlooking city hall and friendship palace. And, anyone with a soft spot for archaeology will enjoy the Museum of National Antiquities, which opened in 2001. You can check out exhibits here from Tajikistan’s pre-Islamic civilizations (Greek/ Bactrian, Buddhist, Hindu and Zoroastrian). The centerpiece is the 14m reclining Buddha in Nirvana – since the tragic destruction of the Bamiyan statues in Afghanistan, this is the largest surviving Buddha statue in Central Asia.

• Dushanbe – National Museum of Antiquities of Tajikistan
• Dushanbe - Rudaki Square and Somoni Museum

After breakfast today, we’ll catch a flight to Almaty – the largest city in Kazakhstan. It’s known as a skier's paradise, with snow-capped mountains framing the entire city. With beautiful parks, ritzy restaurants, excellent museums and plenty of shops and markets to choose from, this city stands in stark contrast to the countryside surrounding it, where locals live much more simply. Depending on the time of your flight today, you may have an opportunity to explore the city at your will this afternoon, otherwise grab an early night and get prepared for a jam-packed day of sightseeing tomorrow.

Today’s total travel time is approximately 4 hours including your flight (approximately 2 hours).

Strap on your walking shoes – we have a full day of sightseeing in Almaty ahead of us today. Kazakhstan is one of the world's top five oil-producing nations and you’ll sure notice the development and wealth that comes from it as you wander the glittering streets today. You’ll visit Central Square and the colourful Zenkoff Cathedral in historic Panfilov Park, dedicated to the 28 guardsmen who died defending Moscow against Nazi tanks in WWII. Then, check out the fascinating Museum of Kazakh Musical Instruments and the State Historical Museum, which features a great collection of ancient relics. And finally, summit Kok Tobe Hill to take in the breathtaking views over the city before returning to the hotel to relax after an action-packed day.

• Almaty - Kok Tobe Hill
• Almaty - Central State Museum
• Almaty - Zenkov Cathedral
• Almaty - Museum of Kazakh Musical Instruments
• Almaty - Panfilov Park

This morning, we’ll drive to Saty Village with a stop along the way at the spectacular Charyn Canyon. The richly coloured orange canyon etched into the surrounding landscape is no less impressive than the Grand Canyon in the US (though much smaller). Enjoy some time here to marvel at this natural wonder and grab some photos before we continue to Saty Village.

• Charyn Canyon - National Park

Today’s total travel time is approximately 5-6 hours.

Your accommodation tonight is a homestay in the village. The group may be split between different houses depending on the group composition. While the rooms are multi-share and the facilities will be basic but your host’s hospitality will certainly be unforgettable.

We’ll explore the surrounding area of Saty Village today with a hike to Kolsai Lakes – also known as ‘the blue necklace’ for their azure water framed by lush, green mountains. Trust us, the hike through the forest will be well and truly worth it once you arrive at these lakes. You may also get a chance to visit the lesser-known Kaindy Lake, a stunning turquoise lake with a striking ‘submerged forest’ protruding from the water. Amazingly, the lake was created by an earthquake in 1911 which caused a limestone landslide causing a dam in the forest. As time went on, the dam filled with water and the trees were covered, leaving just their trunks standing dramatically in the centre. Enjoy a picnic lunch during your hike and then return to a hearty meal after a big day on your feet. After dinner, the evening is all yours to rest, relax or explore as you wish.

• Kolsay Lakes National Park - Hiking

After breakfast this morning, we’ll cross the border into Kyrgyzstan. In the afternoon, you’ll enjoy a little sightseeing in Karakol, once a small Russian military post, then a bustling soviet state, this town is bursting with history just waiting to be explored. You’ll visit the Dungan Mosque, built in 1910 this colourful mosque was created without the use of a single nail – instead, the structure was built using special cutting and groove techniques. You’ll also get a chance to explore the Holy Trinity Orthodox Cathedral and a local market and then take a short hike along the panoramic Jeti Orghuz Canyon Track. After lunch, stroll along Karakol’s streets and lanes, spotting Russian-style ‘gingerbread’ houses as you go.

• Guesthouse (1 night)
• Karakol - Holy Trinity Orthodox Cathedral
• Karakol - Dungan Mosque

Today’s total travel time is approximately 5 hours.

Today is for scenic hikes, waterfalls and panoramic views! After breakfast, we’ll drive along the south shore of Lake Issykul. As one of the largest lakes in the world, the lake is 178km long and 60km wide – it's a fantastic sight to see! On route, we’ll stop to see the picturesque Jety Oguz, also known as Seven Bull Valley, where your leader will take you on a forest hike to a waterfall with panoramic views. From here, you’ll continue to Skazka (Fairy Tale) canyon where you’ll marvel at the rich orange landscapes that blanket the area – it's dry and arid but there’s something incredibly beautiful about this place. This evening, you’re in for a real treat – you'll get the chance to stay in a yurt camp. A truly special experience, yurts have a long history in this area – used for generations by nomadic tribes as the structures are easy to transport and assemble. Enjoy your night under the stars!

• Tourist yurt camp (1 night)
• Karakol - Jeti Orghuz Canyon Hike
• Issyk-Kul Lake - Fairy Tale Canyon picnic lunch

Today’s total travel time is approximately 4 hours. Sleeping arrangements tonight are on a multi-share basis with mattresses on the floor, potentially mixed gender sharing depending on the group composition. There will be up to 4 people sharing one yurt. It can get very chilly in the evenings, so there's a stove for heating and plenty of blankets. Toilet and shower facilities are located separately from the yurts and are shared on the camp. The conditions here are basic but the stunning view and the unique experience of staying in a yurt is certainly rewarding. The yurt camp here is set up for tourists as nomads will constantly migrate depending on where the pasture is but here you'll still be able to have a taste of what life in a yurt camp is like for the nomads.

With relaxed plans for today, we’ll wander the beautiful alpine area and visit a few local families who’ll teach you more about their traditional yurts. With a special workshop, you’ll learn the basics of how these nomadic dwellings have been manufactured and how they play an important role in the community here. Afterwards, meet a local eagle trainer (or Berkutchi) and discover the ancient principles of training these beautiful creatures to follow commands, catch prey and return back to their masters. From here, you’ll visit a local family and learn how they make felt. Then, tonight, relax in your authentic yurt camp and sit back with a cold homemade vodka – created by your yurt camp owners, just for you.

• Issyk-Kul Lake - Home-cooked meal
• Issyk-Kul Lake - Carpet workshop
• Issyk-Kul Lake - Yurt workshop
• Issyk-Kul Lake - Eagle Hunter Visit

This morning, you’ll kiss your alpine camp goodbye and hit the road for Bishkek, the capital of Kyrgyzstan. After lunch, you’ll step back in time with a city tour showcasing the country's fascinating history. You’ll visit the centre of the city – Ala-too Square, which was known as Lenin Square in Soviet times. Lenin used to stand in his concrete overcoat in the middle of this square, proudly gesturing towards the mountains. Then, we’ll explore Dubovy (Oak) Park, where you'll find a few open-air cafes and lush, century-old oaks. Later in the afternoon, you'll have some free time to further explore Bishkek at your leisure. You might like to visit Osh Market – it might be a little noisy and crowded but it provides the perfect peek into local life. You'll find all kinds of things on sale here from spices and fruits to clothes and carpets. In the evening, perhaps get together with your travel mates and enjoy an optional final dinner together to celebrate a great journey through The Five Stans.

• Bishkek - City walking tour

With no further activities planned, your Five Stans adventure comes to an end after breakfast today. You can check out of your hotel any time before noon.

23 breakfasts, 4 lunches, 8 dinners

Private Vehicle, Flight, Metro, High Speed Train

Hotel (16 nights), Guest House (1 night), Tourist Yurt Camp (2 nights), Home Stay (3 nights), Camping (1 night)

Dates and availability

Important notes.

1. A single supplement is bookable if you’d prefer not to share a room on this trip. The single supplement excludes Day 3 (camping), Day 13 (home stay), Day 18&19 (home stay), and Day 21&22 (yurt camp), where you will be in shared accommodation. Single supplement is subject to availability. Please speak to your booking agent for further information. 2. Please provide your full name exactly as per passport at the time of booking (including any middle names listed on your passport) for flight ticket booking no later than 45 days prior to departure. Fees may apply for amendments or failure to provide the required details within 45 days of departure. 3. This is a multi-country trip. Please read the visa section of the Essential Trip Information carefully for the visa requirement. You'll need to travel with one passport throughout the trip as using different passport for exiting and then entering a different country may cause issue at the immigration. Visa for Turkmenistan requires a Letter of Invitation in advance which needs to be organized by our local operator. Evisa for Tajikistan for some nationalities will require a Letter of Invitation. Essential documents for the letter of invitation should be submitted no later than 60 days before the trip. 4. Independent travel is not allowed in Turkmenistan. If you have pre trip accommodation booked with us, you won't be allowed to leave your hotel without a guide in Ashgabat. Please consult with your booking agent if you need to book pre-trip accommodation in Ashgabat. 5. Please provide your flight details at the time of booking, or at a minimum 15 days prior to travel for us to arrange your complimentary arrival transfer. Once you have provided your flight details, a transfer representative will be booked to meet you at the airport and transfer you to your hotel. Please note that this transfer could be a group one if customers arrive on the same flight. 6. If you are booked on a Friday departure in 2024, Air Astana has changed their flight schedule and there’s no flight from Dushanbe to Almaty on Day 16 of the trip as it was originally scheduled, therefore, your itinerary will change to below: Day 14 Travel to Dushanbe, overnight in Dushanbe Day 15 Midday flight to Almaty, overnight in Almaty Day 16 Almaty city tour; overnight in Almaty Day 17 Free day in Almaty, overnight in Almaty Included visits and experiences not not changed in Dushanbe and Almaty, with adjustment of order of visits.

Want an in-depth insight into this trip? Essential Trip Information provides a detailed itinerary, visa info, how to get to your hotel, what's included - pretty much everything you need to know about this adventure and more.

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Trip to the Five Stans - Exploring the Wonders of Central Asia

5stan trip to kazakhstan, kyrgyzstan, tajikistan, uzbekistan, turkmenistan, central asia 16 days start in bishkek, tour along 5-stans countries - silk road of central asia, the 5 stan-s - follow in the footsteps of genghis khan, central asia tour 16 days, start in almaty, silk road odyssey: “15-day five stans tour”, china and 5 stans, highlights of uzbekistan, central asia combined silk road tour.

“The programme is well-designed, the execution smooth, and the tour guides knowledgeable and considerate.” HONG YUI GORDON WONG, traveled in June 2023

• Tour ancient cities of Merv and Bukhara
• Explore Nohur village and tribal sites
• Discover the Charyn Canyon's grandeur

• In-depth Cultural
• Visit Zenkov Cathedral in Panfilov Park
• Climb the Burana Tower and view ancient balbals
• Witness the eternal flames of Darwaza Gas Crater

“Excellent hotels, many in amazing 5 star locations, with wonderful staff. The variety of guides and drivers was superb.” Jacquelyn Rodgers, traveled in September 2023

• Explore Bishkek's vibrant arts and history
• Tour the medieval treasures of Bukhara
• Visit Ashgabat's grandiose monuments and museums

• Christmas & New Year
• Witness the grandeur of Registan Square
• Shop at Chorsu Bazaar in Tashkent's Old City
• Ride the cable car at Chimbulak Ski Resort

“The organization was impeccable, and they fulfilled all of our requests, making it a more comfortable destination.” Sture Josef, traveled in September 2022

• Tour the ancient city sights of Samarkand
• Witness traditional eagle hunting near Issyk Kul
• Stay in a yurt by the Issyk Kul lake

• Discover ancient Merv and Mary's oasis
• Explore Almaty's historic sites and bazaars
• Tour Bishkek and the Kyrgyz Ala-Too mountains

• Sightseeing
• Hike through Ala-Archa National Park
• Explore Bishkek's historic sites and squares
• Tour Almaty's vibrant markets and mosques

“East Site's branch office in Central Asia acceded to all our requests. Thank you.” StellaHall, traveled in September 2019

• Discover Turpan's Buddhist caves and vineyards
• Explore Xinjiang's ancient mummies and treasures
• Visit the awe-inspiring Ichan Kala in Khiva

“The sites were more amazing than I had anticipated. I would highly recommend this tour to anyone.” Carmen Simpson, traveled in August 2023

• Explore Samarkand's stunning Silk Road sites
• Visit Chashma Complex and ancient ruins
• Discover Khiva's blue mosaic domes and minarets

“The guides were good, things were well organized, and we even got to visit some extra sights in Tajikistan.” Gonçalo Araújo, traveled in May 2024

• Explore Bishkek's vibrant city landmarks
• Experience the bustling bazaars of Samarkand
• Discover Issyk Kul Lake and ancient petroglyphs

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• Central Asia

The Five Stans Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan, Tajikistan & Turkmenistan TOURCODE: CA3

Duration: 21 Days

Activity Level: 2

When To Go: Apr, Sep

Countries Visited: 5

Arrive In / Depart From: (TAS) Tashkent / Bishkek (FRU)

Max Group Size: 18

Tour Style: Cultural

Price From:

Discover the country's true culture with the help of experienced local guides.

• Small group sizes to help escape the beaten path.
• Authentic local experiences with lots of inclusions.

What was once a part of the greatest trade route in the world, Central Asia and the "Five Stans" (Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan) are a collection of countries with outstanding history, sprawling landscapes, and timeless beauty.

It is a place to get lost in cities that date back more than 2,000 years, with bazaars and markets in a constant state of buzz. A place to feel like a nomad in the sparsely populated grassy steppes with yurts for homes. Despite being five independent republics, it is a region best visited all together to understand how history and tradition can change a culture.

Starting in Uzbekistan, our Five Stans tours take us into the heart of Central Asia. Cities such as Tashkent are a blend of Soviet architecture with bland buildings leading to grand metro stations, before spilling out onto the old city fit with medieval madrassas, markets and mausoleums, while the superb museums showcase a rich history maintained after the devastating earthquakes and revolutions of the early 20th century.

Indeed, early on into our Five Stans tour one realizes it is also the five M's that will be visited: Madrassas or Islamic schools, markets, mausoleums, museums, and mosques. A city that seems to have stood still despite the passing of time, which encompasses all five 'M's would be Khiva, with its blue domed and tiled features found throughout the walled city. Nowhere feels closer to the Silk Road than here, with ruins and perfectly preserved elements found throughout this oasis city.

As the tour continues, Bukhara and Samarkand are often thought of as highlights as well. The enigmatic Registan Square in Samarkand with its three madrassas standing solemnly are often compared favourably with the Wonders of the World. Meanwhile the bathhouses and royal palaces of Bukhara make this feel like a living museum still in the age of the Silk Road.

While Uzbekistan tends to inspire, Turkmenistan can sometimes tend to mystify. With a capital city recreated in marble, it is also home to the world's largest hand woven carpet and an interesting culture with an immense pride in horses. Certainly, it is an independent culture from that of the rest of the Five Stans with desert regions and ruins of Merv, a city that was once the largest in the world.

By the time our tour arrives in Tajikistan, we will once again prove how diverse this region is. Over the snow-capped and dramatic mountains, we arrive in the gardened capital of Dushanbe for a brief visit before moving onto the grassy steppes and mountains of Kazakhstan. Unlike the ancient cities of Uzbekistan, Almaty in Kazakhstan is relatively new after being built in the 19th century, and many of the features that came to the city during the Soviet Union are still embraced. From the Orthodox churches to the Soviet memorials, Kazakhstan moves at a much quicker pace than the other nations on our Five Stans tour.

The high mountain ranges continue, all the way into the landlocked Kyrgyz Republic. Another former Soviet country, this in an area with strong historical ties to the Silk Road and a long legacy lasting from the Mongol Empire.

From the ancient times to the present, the Five Stans are a destination for those curious of cultures that were once at the centre of crossroads for centuries.

Prices below are per person , twin-sharing costs in Canadian Dollars (CAD) . Pricing does not include airfare to/from the tour and any applicable taxes. For single supplement rates and taxes (if any), please refer to below Prices & Dates table. For general information on flights to/from the tour, click here .

Your Travel and Accommodation Arranged For You

Tips included for driver, restaurant staff, local guides, authentic local experiences with lots of inclusions..

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The above prices are subject to an additional $149 for taxes/fees levied on flights that occur as part of the tour. The internal airfares ARE included (any exceptions are listed in red below), but we list the taxes separately on your invoice as they are beyond our control and can change at any time.

Optional Single Supplement: $1080 CAD (number of singles limited).

Day 1 Arrival in Tashkent Today we arrive in Tashkent, the capital of Uzbekistan (hotel check-in from 2 pm). Overnight in Tashkent. Included Meal(s): Dinner

Day 2 Tashkent: City Tour Today we tour Tashkent, capital of Uzbekistan, the third largest of the former Soviet Republics. Uzbekistan is prospering under independence and this shows in the modern capitol building at the centre of town. We visit the Old City, which has mosques and madrassas (Islamic schools) housing craft workshops and dating from the 14th century. Chorsu Bazaar, a huge open market beside Kukeldash, draws crowds of people from the countryside, many in traditional dress. We also include Kafelsashi Mausoleum, Barak Khana Medressah, Tila Shaikh Mosque and archives. Later we have an orientation drive by Independence Square and Amir Timur’s Square. We will also make a stop for a visit of the Applied Arts Museum. Overnight in Tashkent. Included Meal(s): Breakfast and Dinner

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Day 3 Tashkent - Fly to Nukus - Ayaz Kala - Toprak Kala - Khiva This is a full-day of travel and sightseeing. This morning we fly to Nukus (approx 2 hours), the capital of the autonomous region of Karakalpakstan (arguably the "Sixth Stan" of our tour to Central Asia) to visit the famous Savietsky Museum with its avant-garde art collection. Karakalpakstan is considered to be autonomous due to their ethnic and cultural similarities with neighbouring Kazakhstan. The Soviets once included Karakalpakstan within the boundaries of the Kazakh Soviet Socialist Republic but transferred it to the Uzbek Soviet Socialist Republic in 1936 as part of Stalin's divide and rule strategy in Central Asia. Our destination within Karakalpakstan is the region known for the Ellik-Qala, or Fifty Fortresses. These ruins date as far back as 2,000+ years ago and they represent the varied settlements of the famed Khorezm empire. We will visit two of the well-known Qalas (fortresses) on our journey. We begin with Toprak Qala (4th-5th century A.D.), now left as a series of mud walls and excavated rooms that entails a short hike up to the top of the complex for great views of the surrounding area. Nearby is Ayaz Qala, commanding a great view over the arid plains surrounding this promontory. We continue our road journey to Khiva, once the most remote of the Silk Road's oasis cities. Upon arrival in the late afternoon we check into our hotel. Overnight in Khiva. Included Meal(s): Breakfast and Dinner

Day 4 Khiva: City Tour Legend has it that Khiva was founded when Shem, son of Noah, discovered a well here. The town certainly existed by the 8th century, as a minor fort and trading post on a Silk Road branch to the Caspian Sea and the Volga. In the early 16th century, Khiva was made capital of the Timurid Empire, becoming a busy slave market and pivot of the khanate for the next three centuries. Khiva is an ancient walled city and looks much like it did in centuries past; it is one of the few sites in Central Asia where one can easily imagine life during the time of the emirates. We will spend the morning wandering its maze of ruins and great mosques. Our tour includes Ichan Kala (walled city), Kalta Minor Minaret, Kunya Ark (inner citadel), and Madrassa Rakhimkhon. Later we walk to see Mausoleum of Pakhlavan Makhmud, Islam Khodja Minaret and Museum, the medieval Friday Mosque, and Tashauli Palace and Harem. Your afternoon is free to further explore the walled city. Tomorrow's journey to Turkmenistan: Your Tour Leader can arrange to have our big bags shipped ahead to Bukhara for us, which can make the border crossing into Turkmenistan crossing easier as it involves a "no man's land" of a considerable distance between border posts, over which you much carry/wheel your luggage (there is no one available/allow to help). This is not mandatory, but if you choose to go this route, please bring a collapsible bag (ie duffle) that you can fill with things you will need until we arrive in Bukhara. Overnight in Khiva. Included Meal(s): Breakfast and Dinner

Day 5 Khiva, Uzbekistan - Darvaza Gas Crater, Turkmenistan Today we travel by road to the Turkmenistan border, arriving about mid-morning.* We complete immigration and customs formalities and then proceed to the nearby Turkmen city of Dashauz (Dashoguz), where we will have the opportunity to have some lunch. We then embark on our drive (4WD vehicles) to the Darvaza gas crater,** known locally as the "Door to Hell" or ''Gates of Hell". This is a natural gas field collapsed into an underground cavern located in Derweze (Darvaza). Legend has it that Soviet archaeologists intentionally set it on fire to prevent the spread of methane gas, and it is thought to have been burning continuously since 1971. We'll travel to/from the crater in 4WD vehicles; on arrival we'll have our initial view of the crater. We'll then enjoy a BBQ dinner at the nearby yurt camp, after which we'll view the crater again. Tonight we will overnight in the yurt camp situated very close to the gas crater. The yurts are basic but comfortable. Toilets and showers are located approximately 25-70 metres from the yurts. * This border crossing involves crossing a "no-man's land" of about 1km. This is made easier by the availability of vans to ferry group members across (it may take several trips). This can be a long day with the border crossing acting as a bit of a "wild card." ** Please note that from 2025 onward, this itinerary may not visit the gas crater and will fly to Ashgabat instead (from either Dashogouz or Urgench). Once air schedules are confirmed (likely by Fall 2024), this itinerary will be updated. Overnight at Darvaza Gas Crater yurt camp. Included Meal(s): Breakfast and Dinner

Day 6 Darvaza - Ashgabat: Afternoon City Tour We depart early this morning for our drive by 4WD toward Ashgabat (Ashkhabad), meeting our coach halfway between the crater and the capital to continue the drive (total drive time of 4+ hours). Ashgabat is located in a spectacular natural setting, between the Kara-Kum Desert and the Kopet-Dag mountain range. A settlement on the site of the city was successively occupied by the Parthians, Seljuk Turks, and the Mongols. Under Russian control, it became the administrative capital of the Trans-Caspian oblast, and was the centre of trade between the Russian empire and Persia; the Trans-Caspian railway reached here in 1885. The transliteration of the town's name was changed in 1992 to more accurately reflect the Turkmen original. After a break for lunch we have an afternoon tour of Ashgabat, including a guided tour of the incredible collection at the Carpet Museum, a visit to the National Museum, and an orientation tour of the capital's incredible architecture. We will also have the opportunity to see the famous Akhal-Teke horses of Turkmenistan, a source of immense pride for the Turkmen people. Overnight in Ashgabat. Included Meal(s): Breakfast and Dinner

Day 7 Ashgabat: Morning City Tour - Fly to Merv (Mary) After breakfast, we continue our touring of the capital. We begin by driving out to the ancient Parthian capital of Nissa, a short drive away from the city. We then continue to the massive Spiritual Mosque of Turkmenbashi, Turkmenistan's first president. We will then continue to the city centre to explore the Russian Bazaar. Later this afternoon we fly to the city of Mary, located nearby the famous Silk Road city of Merv. Several cities have existed on this site, which is significant for the interchange of culture and politics at a site of major strategic value. It is claimed that Merv was briefly the largest city in the world in the 12th century. The site of ancient Merv has been listed by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site. Upon arrival at the airport, we will transfer to our hotel in Mary. Overnight in Merv. Included Meal(s): Breakfast and Dinner

Day 8 Merv, Turkmenistan - Bukhara, Uzbekistan This is a full day of travel and sightseeing; our border crossing can also impact the overall length of our day. After an early breakfast, we will depart for our drive to the vast site of ancient Merv, visiting the ancient Hellenistic fortress of Gaiyur Kala, and the sites of Erk Kala and Sultan Kala. We shall also see the impressive mausoleum of Sultan Sanjar, one of the most powerful Khorezmian rulers. After our visit and a chance for lunch we travel by road across the Karakum Desert (“Black Desert”) toward the city of Turkmenabat. We will cross the border in the late afternoon and back into Uzbekistan to drive to Bukhara,* former capital of the once powerful Emirate of Bukhara. En route we stop at the Chor Bakr Necropolis**. With buildings spanning 1,000 years of history and a thoroughly lived-in city centre that hasn't changed much in two centuries, Bukhara is one of the best places in Central Asia to catch a glimpse of pre-Russian Turkestan. Most of the city centre is an architectural preserve and includes a massive royal fortress, plenty of former madrassas, a number of ancient public baths and the remnants of a once-vast market complex. * This border crossing also involves a "no-man's land" over which we should be able to utilize vans to bridge the distance. You will still need to be independent with your luggage between buildings. ** If our border crossing delays us longer than expected, we will take the opportunity to visit Chor Bakr later in our time in the Bukhara area. Overnight in Bukhara. Included Meal(s): Breakfast and Dinner

Day 9 Bukhara: City Tour We spend today exploring the old quarter of Bukhara on foot. The region around Bukhara has been inhabited for at least five millennia and the city itself has existed for half that time. Located on the Silk Road, the city has long been a center of trade, scholarship, culture, and religion. The historic center of Bukhara has been listed by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site. The highlights of today tour include Labi-hauz, a 17th century plaza built around a pool; three domed bazaars; the 12th century Kalan Minaret, once the tallest building in Asia; and the Mausoleum of Ismail Samani, the town's oldest structure (completed around AD 905) and surely one of the most elegant in Central Asia. Overnight in Bukhara. Included Meal(s): Breakfast and Dinner

Day 10 Bukhara - Train to Samarkand This morning we depart Bukhara and travel via Sitorai Mokhi-Khosa, the summer residence of the last Emir of Bukhara. The first structures in this picturesque area were built in the mid-19th century during the rule of Emir Nasrullakhan. In the 1880s, his successor Muzaffarkhan built a palace for his beloved wife Sitora-bonu. The most skillful Bukhara craftsmen were sent to Russia to learn the best practices of country residence construction. Soon after that they constructed a sumptuous set of rooms, including throne room, which had a peculiar mixture of European and Asian architectural styles. We return to old town in Bukhara (our bus leaves to Samarkand with our luggage) and take the afternoon bullet train from Kagan train station (40 minutes' drive from Bukhara) to Samarkand (2 hours 15 minutes). Upon arrival in Samarkand we will be met by our tour bus and transferred to our hotel for a nicely-placed 3-night stay,. Overnight in Samarkand. Included Meal(s): Breakfast and Dinner

Day 11 Samarkand: City Tour Samarkand, sometimes called the 'Rome of the Orient', was already flourishing when Rome and Babylon were founded. During the course of our full day tour we visit the Bibi Khanum Mosque, Mausoleum of Tamerlane, Observatory of Ulugbek, and the site where Uleg Bek, grandson of Tamerlane, made some of the greatest achievements of the pre-telescope era of astronomy in the 15th century. We also visit the regal mausoleums of Shah-i Zinda, site of Central Asia's most sacred Islamic shrine, and the museum on the site of the ancient Afrosiab archaeological site. The ancient core of Samarkand is located on the Afrasiab hill, named after the legendary Turanian king. The settlement arose in the 8th-early 7th centuries BC and occupied more than 200 hectares; river bluffs on the north and east and deep ravines in the south and west protected it. During the Achaemenids period, the city was encircled with a massive wall having an internal corridor and towers. Scholars identify Afrasiab with ancient Sogdian capital Marakanda, destroyed in the 4th century BC by Alexander the Great. Overnight in Samarkand. Included Meal(s): Breakfast and Dinner

Day 12 Samarkand: Registan Square We keep our sightseeing program to a relaxing visit to the Registan Square this morning. The impressive Registan ("Sandy Place" in the Tajik language) has been compared favourably to the Wonders of the World. Here three Madrassahs stand solemnly: the Ulug Bek Madrassah (built 1417-1420) to the west, the Tilya-Kori Madrassah (built 1646-1660), and the Sher-Dor Madrassah (built 1619-1636). Our sightseeing will take us through a careful exploration of the Madrassahs, now filled with various arts and crafts demonstrations, old photos of the monuments taken before the reconstruction by the Soviets and many varied handicrafts for sale. After our formal sightseeing visit, you are free for the rest of the day to further explore the Registan and other lane ways and alleys of Samarkand, the second largest city in Uzbekistan. Overnight in Samarkand. Included Meal(s): Breakfast and Dinner

Day 13 Samarkand, Uzbekistan - Penjikent, Tajikistan We depart Samarkand by coach and transfer to the Uzbek-Tajik Jarteppa border connecting Samarkand with Penjikent,* Tajikistan's third largest city. After undergoing border formalities, we say goodbye to Uzbekistan and meet our small vehicles on the Tajik side to take us to the city, a scenic journey that takes in some of the foothills of the Fann Mountains. Upon arrival in Penjikent, we will visit the Ancient Panjikent Town ruins – a walled inter-city, Sarazm Settlement, Rudaki Museum of History and Regional Study, Olim Dodkho Mosque and Medressah. * This is the longest distance (approx 700m) that you will be expected to transport your luggage between border points, though it is a flat surface and we will have plenty of time to stop and rest along the way. Presently there are usually no vans available. Overnight in Penjikent. Included Meal(s): Breakfast and Dinner

Day 14 Penjikent - Iskanderkul - Dushanbe This is a full day of travel and sightseeing. After breakfast we drive to Dushanbe via Iskanderkul Lake where we will have some free time to enjoy photos and some easy walking by the lake. Afterwards we continue our panoramic drive through the dramatic mountains of Tajikistan towards Dushanbe, briefly reaching a peak of 2500m/8,200 ft (the highest point on our tour) before descending to Dushanbe (706m). With a rural hinterland of grassy pastures and snow-capped mountains visible from downtown, Dushanbe is a delightful city built around parks, lakes and fountains. With the frenetic building project of the past decade mostly complete, there is a palpable air of satisfaction about the city centre. Its grand plane tree boulevard, Rudaki, threads past pastel-hued remnants of the Soviet era and just as proudly past the modern icons of statehood. Overnight in Dushanbe. Included Meal(s): Breakfast and Dinner

Day 15 Dushanbe: City Tour Today we include a tour of the Museum of Antiquities in Dushanbe. The huge reclining Buddha, the burial place of the Sarazm princess, Tajikistan antiques and ancient wall paintings from Penjikent can all be found here. Dushanbe means "Monday" in Tajik, and the name reflects the fact that the city grew on the site of a village that originally was a popular Monday marketplace. Our tour will also include a visit to the privately funded Navruz Palace, a magnificent cultural centre recently completed by skilled local artisans. We will also tour the city's beautiful Botanical Gardens, and we will take a walk through the Bag-i-Rudaki (Rudaki Gardens), featuring the towering statue to Tajik hero, Ismail Somoni. Overnight in Dushanbe. Included Meal(s): Breakfast and Dinner

Day 16 Dushanbe, Tajikistan - Fly to Almaty, Kazakhstan Today we fly to Almaty. Depending on our flight time, we may accomplish some Almaty sightseeing shortly after arrival. We will aim to visit Zhenkov's Cathedral, built in 1904, and an extraordinary example of a Russian Orthodox church built in wood. We will also take the opportunity to visit Panfilov Park in which the Cathedral is located, enjoying the afternoon family atmosphere. Furthermore, we will have a chance to visit the recently reopened Museum of Musical Instruments, also located in the park. This is a fairly easy-going day; however, the flight time can impact the convenience factor. Overnight in Almaty. Included Meal(s): Breakfast and Dinner

Day 17 Almaty: City Tour Today we have a full-day tour of Almaty. Compared to other cities in Central Asia, Almaty is quite young. It was founded in 1854 by Russians in the valley of Almaty and was just a fort at first. Its name was Zailisky, then it was named Verny. In 1921 it became Alma-Ata ("Father of Apples") and in 1929 it became the capital of the Kazakh Soviet Socialist Republic. In 1993 the name was changed to Almaty. We will begin our tour of the Almaty area with a visit to the high-altitude speed-skating complex of Medeo and the Medeo Dam. We will also visit Kok-Tobe, a large promontory featuring stunning views over the city and the nearby Zailiyskiy Alatau mountain range. Back in Almaty we'll visit the Central State Museum with its excellent displays of Scythian art and some rock drawings depicting the ancient Nestorian pilgrim movement on the Great Silk Routes. A hall dedicated to the nomadic tribes of Kazakhstan is the highlight of the ethnic section of the museum. We may also take the opportunity to have a short visit of a couple of the Almaty metro stations (completed quite recently in 2011). The metro currently features two lines, with several stations adorned with unique and artistic designs, reflecting local culture and history. Overnight in Almaty. Included Meal(s): Breakfast and Dinner

Day 18 Almaty, Kazakhstan - Bishkek, Kyrgyz Republic This morning we travel by road across the border* to Bishkek in the Kyrgyz Republic and embark on a city tour on arrival. Originally, Bishkek was called Pishpek. In 1926 Pishpek became the capital of the Kyrghiz Autonomous Republic. In 1936, as the capital of the Kyrghiz Soviet Socialist Republic, Pishpek was renamed Frunze in honour of a major political organizer of the Civil War who was born in Pishpek to a Moldavian family. Today Bishkek is a modern city with vast squares, crowded bazaars, impressive administrative centers, and educational institutions. Our tour includes Oak Park, Central Square, Statue of Manas, and Victory Square. We will also visit the National Historical Museum. At the northern end of Bishkek's central square, this enormous example of socialist realist architecture was once the Lenin Museum, entirely devoted to the man himself. After independence, two of its three floors were cleared to make way for exhibits that reflected Kyrgyzstan's new status as an independent state. Luckily for visitors one floor has been preserved, along with a huge centrepiece statue of Lenin leading the revolutionary masses. * This is an easy crossing with a short distance across a bridge. Overnight in Bishkek. Included Meal(s): Breakfast and Dinner

Day 19 Bishkek - Lake Issyk-Kul Today's scenic drive takes us along the shores of scenic Lake Issyk-Kul (1607m/5,272 ft), the tenth largest lake in the world by volume and the second largest saline lake after the Caspian Sea. Although it is surrounded by snow-capped peaks, it never freezes; hence its name, which means "warm lake" in the Kyrgyz language. In and around the town of Cholpon-Ata, on the shores of Lake Issyk-Kul, we will have the opportunity to view the Petroglyphs located above the town. Most of these etchings are from the time of the Saka-Usun peoples who lived in the area before the arrival of the Kyrgyz. These carvings are between 1,900 and 2,800 years old. Many of the carvings depict animals such as wolves and deer, and include the hunters that pursued them. We will also visit a small regional museum that feature many artifacts from the region and ethnological displays. This is another full day but quite leisurely with plenty of sightseeing stops. Overnight at Lake Issyk-Kul. Included Meal(s): Breakfast and Dinner

Day 20 Lake Issyk-Kul - Bishkek This morning we depart for our drive back to Bishkek along the same road that we took to get to the lake. On the way back to Bishkek, we will stop and visit the Burana Tower, located at the mouth of the Shamsy Valley. An eleventh century monument, restored by the Soviets in the 1950's, you may choose to climb the minaret to get a view over the old city walls of Balasagun, a fortification built by the Sogdians. Nearby Burana Tower, we will have an opportunity to witness a demonstration of some of the nomadic games carried out on horseback. Young men from the village will perform examples of "horse wrestling" (where two riders compete with one another to try and wrestle each other off of the horse); snatching up bags from the ground while the horses gallop at top speed; and a game of "Kok-Boru" or horse polo. However, in this version, instead of a ball they take a headless, limbless goat and use that as the object to score into the opposing team's goal. The effort to wrestle and carry this off demands great strength and skill as the two teams face off against one another. The winners get to keep the goat which will be used for the evening meal in their village. This is a full day but a relatively short distance broken up with several stops of interest. This evening back in Bishkek we'll enjoy our last Central Asian dinner. Overnight in Bishkek. Included Meal(s): Breakfast and Dinner

Day 21 Departure Departure from Bishkek. BON VOYAGE! Included Meal(s): Breakfast

Inclusions Breakfast and dinner (at local restaurants and some hotels) are included daily. All transport, accommodation, sightseeing and entrance fees for sites noted as 'visited' in the detailed itinerary. Gratuities for drivers, restaurant staff, porters, local guides. Airport transfers for land & air customers.

Exclusions International airfare to/from the tour. Tour Leader gratuities, lunches, drinks, personal items (phone, laundry, etc), domestic and international (if applicable) air taxes, visa fees, and any excursions referenced as 'optional'. Airport transfers for Land Only customers. Optional trip cancellation insurance. Our post-reservation trip notes offer further guidance on shopping, not included meals, visas* and locally paid departure taxes. VISAS: You will need to supply us with some documentation, passport photos, and a fee which will be listed separately on your invoice. You will need to be reasonably computer/email proficient in order to complete the visa process which relies entirely on electronic communication. You will not need to surrender your passport.

Seasonality and Weather In both April and October, average low temperature is 10C (57 F); average high is 20C (68 F). That said, it is not uncommon for some locations to be rather warm-hot, more so in the early fall than spring. Some locations, such as Karakol and mountain passes can be considerably cooler. The region is semi-arid overall, but showers can still occur in spring and fall, though likely short-lived. These are the best times to visit this extreme climate region, where summers are unbearably hot and winters bitterly cold. Our spring date will feature snowy mountain scenery through mountain passes and a greener landscape. The fall is a bit warmer and features harvest time and locally-grown produce.

Transport and Travel Conditions Road Transport: Our buses in Uzbekistan, Turkmenistan, Kazakhstan, and Kyrgyzstan are big buses with plenty of room. In Tajikistan we use (usually) use a couple of vans on the first day seeing in Penjikent and area, then 4WD vehicles on the mountain drive from Penjikent to Dushanbe, where we generally we use multiple mini-vans for local sightseeing. Domestic flights via scheduled local carriers, such as Air Astana, Uzbekistan Airways, Turkmenistan Airlines. Our difficulty rating of "2" on this trip relates to the overall ambitious nature of the itinerary, long travel days, early starts, and the possibility of heat which can cause fatigue. We have numerous walking tours and visit several sites that are LARGE with steps and uneven surfaces. Porters are available at hotels but you must be able to manage with your baggage from time to time, especially at airports. The highest elevation at which we overnight is Lake Issyk-Kul at 1600m/5,250 ft; all other location are below 1000m. Border crossings also present a challenge as the facilities are not built for comfort, and there is often a considerable distance (ie 400-500 metres) across "no man's land" between posts over which travellers must walk (we leave one bus behind and meet our next one ahead). These distances occur over rough road (sturdy wheeled luggage is a MUST) and in the open (perhaps hot sun). There is no one to assist with baggage so you must be prepared and independent. Travellers with very specific dietary requirements, or those with pre-existing medical conditions should be aware that we visit some remote locales where services, varied cuisines/foods, and the possibility of advanced medical attention, are limited. Pharmaceuticals: Please note that most Central Asian countries are very strict about the importation of certain medications, especially opioids, pychotropics, medicinal marijuana, certain types of mood stabilizers or anything that can be considered a "narcotic". The official concern here is not your use of the drugs for therapeutic reasons, but rather the possibility of importation for the purpose of trafficking. As such, you must be prepared to fully declare any such items upon entry and carry only the amount consistent with your prescription and length of stay. For more information on this matter, please visit: https://uz.usembassy.gov/u-s-citizen-services/doctors/prescription-medicines/

Am I suitable for this tour? Please refer to our self-assessment form .

Activity Level: 2 These are particularly busy tours that feature a lot of moving around, sometimes by train and short journeys on local transport. Walking tours of towns and cities are leisurely but you should be prepared to be on your feet for several hours. Some of our cultural trips that occur at high altitude and/or require greater independence with baggage handling (at hotels, airports, train stations) also fall into this category.

To learn more about the Activity levels, please visit our tour styles page.

Accommodation Most accommodation is of a 3-4 star standard, though accommodation may be simpler in remote locations. All are heated/air-conditioned as conditions warrant, and all feature private bath. Most passengers are pleasantly surprised at the overall comfort and level of service, though in the part of the world, one must be prepared for some "rough edges."

Staff and Support Tour Leader throughout, local drivers, local guides at various locations.

Group Size Maximum 18 (plus Tour Leader)

Tour Extensions This tour is part of a series that can be upgraded to make for a longer trip. For more options, please refer to tour code/s:

Regions visited: Central Asia Countries visited: Uzbekistan ; Turkmenistan ; Tajikistan ; Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan

*The red tour trail on the map does not represent the actual travel path.

The following is a list of sample hotels at some locations included on this tour. The hotels shown here are meant to provide a general sense of the standard of hotel we usually aim for; they are not necessarily confirmed for your chosen departure.

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The Five Stans of the Silk Road

26 days, bishkek to ashgabat.

• Full itinerary
• Tour details

See all the 'stans (well, most of them) on this comprehensive 26-day tour through Central Asia. Learn about nomadic life in Song Köl, explore natural landscapes like Kaindy Lake's sunken forest, and witness the hustle and bustle of capital cities and their bazaars, cathedrals, and historical sites. Along the way, you'll sleep like the locals do in homestays and yurts to get even closer to this underexplored destination.

Bishkek to Ashgabat

Is this tour for me, travel style: classic.

All of the highlights, culture, access, and I-can’t-believe-we-did-that moments, all at a great price.

Service Level: Standard

Comfortable tourist-class accommodations with character; mix of public and private transport.

Physical Rating: 3 - Average

Some tours may include light hiking, biking, rafting, or kayaking in addition to walking.

Trip Type: Small Group

Small group experience; Max 16, avg 14

Age requirement: 12+

All travellers under age 18 must be accompanied by an adult.

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Before booking, use our handy entry requirements tool so you know which documents you need to enter and travel through the countries on your trip.

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In a number of impactful ways, your adventure directly benefits the local people and places we visit.

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Trees planted for this trip: 26

Ripple Score

Create ripples that change lives. The higher the Ripple Score percentage, the more money stays in the local communities you visit.

Ripple Score for this trip: 90

Highlights from The Five Stans of the Silk Road

More from the five stans of the silk road.

Places visited

• Turkmenistan

Day 1 Bishkek

Arrive at any time.

Exclusive Inclusions:

Day 2 bishkek/chong-kemin.

After breakfast, embark on a city tour of Bishkek before travelling to the serenity of Chong-Kemin Valley. Along the way, stop at one of Kyrgyzstan's oldest sights, the Burana Tower and learn about this ancient structure, rare in nomadic culture. Tonight, stay in a cozy guest house run by Ashuu villagers. Soak in the stunning scenery while exploring the village and savour a home-cooked traditional dinner.

Meals included:

Day 3 chong-kemin/song kul.

In the morning, opt for a hike to the nearby mountains or explore the famous gorges of Chong-Kemin. After lunch, enjoy the scenic drive along the Kalmak-Ashuu mountain pass to Song Kul Lake. Immerse yourself in Kyrgyz culture with an overnight stay in a traditional yurt. Experience daily nomadic life and wander the breathtaking landscape. With an altitude of 3,016 meters above sea level, it's possible to experience four seasons in one day! Indulge in delicious home-cooked cuisine for dinner, then get cozy in the yurt around the stove.

Day 4 Song Kul/Tamga

Spend the morning soaking in all the beauty of Song Kul Lake before departing for Kochkor to learn the importance of felt-making to Kyrgyz culture and local artisans. Learn the craft during a hands-on workshop creating a small version of the traditional carpet known as ala-kiyiz, and enjoy lunch together. Afterward, head to Tamga village in the clutches of the Terskey Ala-Too and celestial Issyk-Kol’ Lake, where you'll spend the night at a village guesthouse and get to know the local community members.

Day 5 Tamga/Karakol

Enjoy a free morning getting to know this isolated village. Transfer to Ak-Orgo Workshop Centre to observe how traditional yurts are built and learn about the importance of this Kyrgyz craft. After Lunch at Ak Orgoo, drive to Kyrgyzstan's 4th largest city - Karakol. Stop for a visit at the Prejevalskiy Museum, dedicated to the famous Russian explorer Nikolai Przhevalsky, followed by a city tour. See the Russian Holy Trinity Orthodox Church and pagoda-style Dungan Mosque, built by Chinese Muslims in the early 20th Century.

Day 6 Karakol

After breakfast take a short drive to Jety-Oguz Gorge, located in the footsteps of Terskey Ala-Too Mountains, and visit famous unique red rock formations called “Broken Heart and “Seven Bulls”. Then, hike to the valley of wildflowers and reach a stunning view point overlooking the flower-filled valley. Return to Karakol and have a free afternoon to explore. In the evening enjoy dinner with local family

Day 7 Karakol/Saty Village

Cross the border into Kazakhstan on the journey to Saty Village, part of the Kolsay Lakes National Park. On arrival, jump in a Russian 4x4 for the ride to Kaindy Lake, then embark on a trek to explore the sunken forest. Soak in the bright hues and marvel at the eerie sight of submerged trees. Spend the night in a homestay and indulge in traditional Kazakh meals for a true Kazakh experience.

Day 8 Saty Village/Almaty

Depart early this morning for Almaty, the former Kazakh capital, stopping along the way to marvel at Charyn Canyon. Boasting stunning shades of red, orange, and brown, the Charyn Canyon is a natural wonder comparable in beauty to the Grand Canyon. On arrive in Almaty, take a city tour visiting sights such as Independence Square, Zenkov Cathedral, Panfilov's Park, and the striking WWII memorial. Time permitting, opt to climb Green Hill for panoramic views, visit the local markets, or sip coffee in one of the plentiful cafés.

Day 9 Almaty/Dushanbe

In the morning, transfer to Almaty airport and board a flight to Dushanbe, the capital of Tajikistan, on the Varzob River. Upon arrival enjoy a tour of Dushanbe, visiting the main monuments, museum, and mosque.

Day 10 Dushanbe/Kuli Iskandarkul/ Gazza Village

Enjoy a morning drive through the valleys and mountains to Kuli Iskandarkul. Pass along Alexander the Great's lake and go on a short hike to Iskander Darya waterfall. After lunch continue the drive to our overnight stay at a Community Guest house in Gazza Village. Meet the local people and explore the gorgeous landscape of the Fann Mountains. Upon arrival to Gazza village the group will set out on a walk followed by dinner at local family's home.

Day 11 Gazza Village

After breakfast, embark on a hike alongside Voru River to visit Voru village (one of the old Villages of Fan Mountains). After the village exploration, head back to to Community guest house. Spend the afternoon at leisure. Opt to join a hike to picturesque Khushtarita valley. Have dinner in a community guest house with the group.

Day 12 Gazza Village to Khujand

Continue on to Khujand, stopping first in Istaravshan to explore a local mosque and Mug Teppe, an ancient citadel fortress stormed by Alexander the Great in 329 BC. Enjoy an optional lunch in a local chaikhana (teahouse) before continuing the drive to Khujand. Wander the city in the afternoon, visiting the Historical Museum of Sughd, resembling a castle, and the Mausoleum of Sheik Muslekheddin.

Day 13 Khujand/Tashkent

Visit the Khujand market (largest in Tajikistan) before continuing on to the border. Cross into Uzbekistan and drive to the capital city of Tashkent, where modern skyscrapers mix with Soviet-era architecture and mosaic mausoleums. Enjoy a short orientation walk in the evening before an optional dinner.

Day 14 Tashkent

Spend the day freely exploring this unique bustling city. Check out one of the many museums, wander the streets admiring the modern, Soviet-era architecture, venture up Tashkent Tower (which offers city views from its observation deck), or wander through the bazaar.

Day 15 Tashkent/Samarkand

Travel on to Samarkand, known for intricately beautiful mosques and mausoleums, situated on the Silk Road. Take an orientation walk and opt to visit the Amir Timur Mausoleum, dedicated to the famous conqueror who once hoped to rebuild the empire of Genghis Khan.

Day 16 Samarkand

Embark on a city tour, visiting Ulugbek Observatory, Shaki Zinda complex, the bazaar, Bibi Khanum, and Registan Square. With a free afternoon, continue exploring the Samarkand sights, have a cuppa in a local tea house, or wander around the bazaar. Opt to explore the Tomb of Prophet Daniel, famous for the Biblical story of Daniel and the lions.

Day 17 Samarkand/Aydar Kŭl Camp

Travel out into the desert to visit Chashma Complex, a pilgrimage site in the territory of Nurata, dominated by ruins of Alexander the Great's fortress, Juma mosque, a bath-house, and the ancient Panjvakta mosque. All of this, hiding a holy spring believed to heal diseases. After exploring the complex, head to Aidarkul Lake and opt for a swim before continuing on for an overnight stay in a local yurt camp. Enjoy an authentic Uzbekistan dinner and an evening Kazakh singing show.

Day 18 Aydar Kŭl Camp/Bukhara

Travel to Bukhara, known as one of the most charming cities in the country, and get your bearings on an orientation walk. Opt to visit the old city bazaars, enjoy a traditional dinner cooked by a local family, visit a hammam (bathhouse), or just relax in the pleasant atmosphere of this Silk Road city.

Day 19 Bukhara

Explore Bukhara on a half-day guided walking tour around the beautifully restored mosques, madrassas, and covered markets, or trading domes, that make up the Old City. A centre for pottery, cloth, and carpets, Bukhara is centered around Lyabi-Hauz, a delightful pool of water surrounded by ancient mulberry trees. Wander the artisan shops and narrow twisting streets and alleyways, or sit at a café table and let the evening drift by. Opt to watch a local puppet show held in an old caravanserai, or indulge in a rejuvenating hammam bathhouse.

Day 20 Bukhara/Khiva

Enjoy a scenic drive through the desert on a full day's journey to reach UNESCO-listed Khiva, well worth the arduous drive. Get to know this peaceful, picturesque city on a late afternoon orientation walk, and pick your favourite spots to explore more in-depth tomorrow.

Day 21 Khiva

Before exploring this historic town on your own, enjoy a guided tour to learn about local life here. Wander through the narrow labyrinth mudbrick alleyways of old town, bargain with locals at the bazaar, admire the madrassas and blue mosaic domes, climb up towering minarets, and venture into the dark dungeons Khiva was infamous for back in the 10th century. Explore the inner walls of Ichon-Qala, and enjoy spectacular sunset views of the sand-coloured mosques and homes.

Day 22 Khiva/Dashoguz

Spend the morning in Khiva, enjoying your last moments here to experience anything you couldn't squeeze in yesterday, or do some last minute shopping. After lunch, drive to the Uzbek-Turkmen border and continue to Dashoguz. Take an orientation walk and opt for dinner in local café, or explore the city and it's Bai Market.

Day 23 Dashoguz/Darvaza

Drive to the UNESCO World Heritage Site Kunya Urgench to visit the ancient capital of the Khorezmian Empire. After lunch, continue to the Kara-Kum desert and witness the fiery Darvaza gas crater, also known as the "Gates of Hell." This evening, enjoy a delicious barbeque dinner and spend the night camping under the stars at a yurt camp.

Day 24 Darvaza/Ashgabat

After breakfast, begin the journey to the capital of Turkmenistan - Ashgabat. On the way, stop near the community of Erbent and admire its golden sand dunes that stretch out to the horizon. On arrival in Ashgabat, spend the evening at leisure. Opt to visit the Turkmenbashi Ruhy Mosque, also known as Gypjak Mosque, and capture the sun setting on the symmetrical minarets and golden domes.

Day 25 Ashgabat

Spend the day exploring bustling Ashgabat. Enjoy a tour of the city in the morning, visiting several city treasures such as the Monument of Independence and the National museum or Neutrality Arch. Afterward, opt to venture to the ancient ruins of Nisa, or continue exploring Ashgabat.

Day 26 Ashgabat

Depart at any time. Departure transfer is included.

What's Included

• Your G for Good Moment: Yurt Building Demonstration, Barskoon
• Your Welcome Moment: Welcome Moment - Meet Your CEO and Group, Bishkek
• Your Local Living Moment: Overnight in a Yurt, Song Köl
• Your Local Living Moment: Tamga Village Stay, Tamga
• Your Local Living Moment: Community Homestay, Kuli Iskandarkul
• Your Local Living Moment: Overnight in a Yurt, Aydar Kŭl Camp
• Half-day city tour (Bishkek)
• Burana Tower visit (Bishkek)
• Przhevalsky Museum visit (Karakol)
• Yurt building presentation (Kizil Tuu)
• Saty village stay
• City tour (Almaty)
• Charyn Canyon Visit
• City tour (Dushanbe)
• Waterfall hike (Kŭli Iskandarkŭl)
• City tour (Khujand)
• Mug Yepe Visit (Istaravshan)
• Market visit (Khujand)
• City tour (Samarkand)
• Walking tour (Bukhara)
• Chashma Complex and Holy Spring Visit (Nurata)
• Fortress of Alexander the Great visit (Nurata)
• City tour (Bukhara)
• Khiva Ancient City tour
• City tour (Tashkent)
• Felt-making workshop visit
• Hikes and picnic lunch
• Daravaz gas crater ("Door to Hell") visit
• Erbent visit
• City tour (Ashgabat)
• Internal flight
• Transport between destinations and to/from included activities
• Departure Transfer

Accommodations

Standard hotels (21 nts twin share), yurts (3 nts multishare up to 4 people per yurt), homestay (1 nt multishare).

25 breakfasts, 5 lunches, 9 dinners Allow USD490-640 for meals not included.

Transportation

Private vehicles, plane, walking.

Staff & experts

CEO (Chief Experience Officer) throughout.

Available extras  (Add these to your tour when you book)

My own room - from $1079.00.

If you're travelling solo and would prefer to have your own private room throughout your trip, select this option during the online booking process.

Make it a private tour

Book this tour as a private departure, with your own CEO and all the benefits of a G Adventures group tour.

• Our Philosophy – Ethical Travel
• Central & South East Asia
• India & South Asia
• Middle East & Africa
• North Asia & Japan (coming soon)

Legends of the Silk Road

A 5 Stans tour of Central Asia

On this 5 Stans tour in the veiled heart of Central Asia, a tapestry of secrets unravels across a timeless expanse. Each of the 5 stans of Central Asia is different to the last. Uzbekistan, a land of history, blue domes and conquering heroes. Kyrgyzstan, a land of untouched wilderness and natural beauty. Kazakhstan, the mother of ‘dark tourism’. Tajikistan, home to the open road of the Pamir Highway and Turkmenistan, a place closed off and at times utterly bizarre.

Each Stan, whispers tales of ancient Silk Road caravans that carried desires and dreams through hidden valleys and towering peaks. A mystical dance of cultures unfolds, where nomadic echoes intermingle with forgotten legends, and the winds themselves whisper cryptic verses of distant conquerors and celestial patterns etched in the stars.

In this magical region know where you are from the moment you wake up by staying in locally owned and operated hotels, yurt camps and even take an overnight train in Kazakhstan to give you a real chance to mingle with the locals on this 5 stans tour.

DUSHANBE – BISHKEK

$12 985 AUD *

Departure Dates: 20 April & 1 September 2025

OR CONTACT US for more information

Trip code: LRDB *from

TRIP HIGHLIGHTS – 5 STANS TOUR

• Wander the streets of the ‘two ladies’ of Uzbekistan, Bukhara and Samarkand, ‘City of Legend’; wander the blue domed mosques and fortresses and stand on the shoulders the of giants of the ancient world
• Explore the vast natural beauty of Kyrgyzstan with its Alpine ‘jailoo’ meadows, stunning lakes, pretty waterfalls and the impressive Jeti Ozguz and ‘fairy-tale’ gorges
• Camp out at the Darvaza Crater, the legendary ‘Gate to Hell’ and explore the sites of the strange city of Ashgabat
• Visit the ruins of the ancient Sogdian town of Panjakent and wander the streets of cosmopolitan Dushanbe in Tajikistan
• Discover the ex-Soviet legacy of the 5 Stan’s in Kazakhstan and explore the horizons of the vast steppe.
• Stay in traditional hotels, guest houses and yurts set up in the picturesque countryside and experience the overnight train in Kazakhstan

Start: Dushanbe

Finish: Bishkek

Trip style: Unique

Max group size: 15

Reasons you’ll love this tour

• The thought of following in the footsteps of some of the worlds greatest travellers & explorers excites you
• You enjoy learning about local crafts and industry
• You have an interest in the history of the Silk Road and some interest in the former Soviet Union
• You’re looking to visit a varied destination that is likely outside your comfort zone
• You enjoy local transport and meeting local people
• You’re enjoy everything from inspiring architecture to the remote wilderness
• Authenticity is important to you when travelling

Arrive in Dushanbe and make your own way to the trip hotel. Meet your trip leader and travel companions for a welcome meeting and introduction to your 5 Stans tour at 17.00. After the meeting ,  head out into the city to a local restaurant for a special dinner.

The first official day of our 5 Stans tour begins with a visit to the renowned National Museum of Tajikistan, where ancient artifacts and exhibits unveil the fascinating history and diverse heritage of this enchanting nation. After immersing ourselves in the past, we stroll through Rudaki Park, a serene oasis adorned with blooming flowers and majestic trees, offering a tranquil retreat in the heart of the city.

For a delightful lunch experience, we indulge in the flavors of Tajik cuisine at the esteemed Rokhat tea house, savoring aromatic teas (for which this region is famous) and delectable local dishes.

In the afternoon, we embark on a scenic drive to Panjakent, a historic city brimming with archaeological wonders. Along the way, we are treated to breathtaking vistas of the rugged Tajik landscape, as we traverse through picturesque valleys and towering mountains.

On arrival in Panjakent we will check into our hotel

Get ready for a captivating morning as we explore the legendary city of Panjakent. Our day begins with a visit to the bustling Panjakent local market, where vibrant colors, aromatic spices, and lively chatter create a sensory feast for the senses.

After absorbing the vibrant energy of the market, we proceed to explore the ancient city of Panjakent, where the echoes of history whisper through the remnants of its impressive archaeological site. Walk in the footsteps of ancient civilizations as we marvel at the intricately preserved ruins, unveiling stories of past glory and cultural significance.

We bid farewell to Panjakent (and Tajikistan) and embark on a picturesque drive towards the border with Uzbekistan, taking in the breathtaking landscapes that seamlessly connect these two captivating nations.

On arrival we will cross the border and then begin our journey to the Samarkand, where we will have lunch.

After lunch we will visit one of many strange sites on this 5 Stans tour, the Observatory of Ulugh Beg. Ulugh Beg was a prominent astronomer, mathematician, and ruler of the Timurid Empire in the 15th century. At the observatory we will visit the museum showcasing Ulugh Beg’s contribution to astronomy and his mysterious astronomical device, a huge sextant built in 1420, 134 years prior to the birth of Galileo.

In the afternoon we will visit one of Samarkand’s local wineries to sit back, relax and enjoy a tasting after our busy day. After our Uzbek wine appreciation session, we will check in to our hotel.

We wake up this morning in Samarkand. “City of Legend.” So, it’s only fitting we begin our day with a pilgrimage to the tomb of Uzbekistan’s national hero Amir Timur – you’ll probably know him as Tamarlane. Amir Timur, was a powerful Central Asian conqueror and statesman who established the Timurid Empire, known for his military campaigns and cultural patronage in the 14th century.

As you enter the small burial chamber which contains Tamarlane and his relatives, be sure to watch your feet! Many an unsuspecting traveller has tripped while entering owing to being completely bowled over by the spectacular dome overhead.

Our next stop for the morning is Samarkand’s most famous site – Registan Square, sure to be a highlight of your 5 Stans tour. Registan Square, is a magnificent plaza adorned with stunning madrasas showcasing intricate tilework and serves as a vibrant hub of trade, learning, and cultural exchange.

After exploring the Registan, we will have some free time for shopping and lunch near the Siab bazaar. Why not write yourself into history by bartering for something at this historic market which has been in use since the days of the Silk Road.

In the afternoon we will view the city from the Afro Siab Hill, the place where according to legend, Alexander the Great stood and viewed the city for the first time.

We will also take a walk-through Shah-i-Zinda, a breathtaking necropolis featuring a series of dazzling mausoleums and tombs, showcasing intricate tilework and serving as a sacred pilgrimage site.

This evening we are in for a real treat as we are invited to dine at the home of Ilkhom Ibragimov, one of Samarkand’s prominent citizens.

We depart Samarkand this morning and travel to the city of Shahrisabz, the birthplace of Amir Timur. On our way to Shahrisabz we will pass through Shaitan Djiga, the ‘Plateau of the Demons’. The vast plateau stretches out from the creeks of Mirankul, its rocks look like sculptures, demons in the distance.

On arrival in Shahrisabz we will visit the ruin of the Aksaray Palace, the Dorus Tilavat seminary, the Kok Gumbaz and Friday Mosques. If the day is clear, we might get to see a bonus ‘Stan’, as the mountains of Afghanistan are sometimes visible from Shahrisabz main street.

In the afternoon we will continue onto Bukhara and check in to our hotel where we will stay for the next 3-nights on our 5 Stans tour.

Embark on a captivating journey through the ancient city of Bukhara as we explore its architectural gems and immerse ourselves in its rich history and culture. Our day begins with a visit to the Ismail Samani Mausoleum, a masterpiece of Islamic architecture, revered as one of the oldest and most impressive mausoleums in Central Asia.

Continuing our exploration, we proceed to the Bolo Hauz Mosque, a charming 18th-century mosque known for its elegant wooden columns and serene courtyard, offering a tranquil oasis amidst the bustling city.

Next, we journey to the Ark of Bukhara, an imposing fortress that once served as the residence of emirs, filled with stories of dynasties and intrigues. Immerse yourself in the historical grandeur as we traverse its towering walls and hidden chambers. Make sure you check out the ‘bug-pit’ another strange and rather dark site on our 5 Stans tour.

After a morning filled with wonder, we treat ourselves to a delightful lunch overlooking the Kalon Ensemble, a remarkable architectural complex that includes the Kalon Mosque, Kalon Minaret, and Mir-i-Arab Madrasa. As we savor our meal, we take in the breathtaking views of these iconic landmarks which we will explore after lunch.

Embark on an immersive journey through the vibrant arts and crafts scene in Bukhara as we explore the UNDP-assisted workshops near Lyabikhauz. Discover the ancient techniques of block printing, metal chasing, carving, and miniature painting, witnessing skilled artisans at work. You may even have the opportunity to create your own masterpiece under their expert guidance. Immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of Bukhara while supporting local artisans and taking home unique, handcrafted souvenirs.

The remainder of the day is yours to explore the city of Bukhara on your own. You may wish to explore more local monuments, take a relaxing hammam or just use this opportunity to rest before continuing on your 5 Stans tour tomorrow. The choice is yours!

Early this morning we depart Bukhara and take a drive into the desert to cross the border into Turkmenistan, the 3 rd Stan on our 5 Stans tour. This border is what we call a ‘doozy’, and it will likely take the best part of our day to get across, with lots of paperwork to fill out and lots of border officials to smile at.

When we arrive in Turkmenistan, we will travel to the town of Turkmenabat for lunch in a local restaurant before proceeding on to the archaeological site of Merv which we will likely be visiting at dusk – don’t worry this is actually the best time to visit.

Testament to the grandeur of the ancient Silk Road, Merv will impress us with its well-preserved architectural marvels, including stunning mausoleums, mosques, and fortifications. Settlement at Merv dates back as far as the 3 rd millennium BCE, but it is most famous for its previous name of ‘Alexandria’ one of many envisioned by Alexander the Great.

After exploring Merv, we will check in to our hotel in the city of Mary.

This morning we will explore the city of Mary as we visit two remarkable sites. Our journey begins at the Gurbanguly Hajji Mosque, a magnificent architectural gem adorned with intricate designs and exquisite craftsmanship, where we immerse ourselves in the serene atmosphere and appreciate the spiritual significance of this sacred place.

Next, we venture to the Zelyony Bazaar, a bustling market filled with vibrant colours, aromatic spices, and a wide array of fresh produce, where we engage with friendly locals, sample delicious fruits, and experience the lively ambiance of this bustling hub of trade and culture.

We depart Mary for the capital, Ashgabat in the late morning stopping en route for lunch and at the bronze age archaeological site of Namazga-Tepe.

In the afternoon we will check into our hotel in Ashgabat where we will spend the next 2-nights on our 5 Stans tour.

We will discover the strange city of Ashgabat on a morning tour. Ashgabat is the gleaming capital city of Turkmenistan, where modernity meets tradition. Marvel at the futuristic architecture and grandiose monuments that adorn the cityscape as we explore its vibrant streets and squares.

After our insightful tour, we treat ourselves to a delectable lunch at a local restaurant, savoring the flavors of authentic Turkmen cuisine.

Following our meal, we visit the Akhal-Teke Horse Farm, where we have the opportunity to witness the beauty and grace of the world-famous Akhal-Teke horses, known for their sleek coats and endurance. Immerse yourself in the equestrian culture of Turkmenistan and learn about the significance of these majestic creatures.

To conclude our day, we visit the Carpet Museum, where we delve into the rich heritage of Turkmen carpet weaving, admiring the intricate designs and vibrant colours of these masterpieces. To understand how important carpet weaving is to the Turkmens, we only need to look to the country’s flag, the only national flag featuring a carpet.

We leave Ashgabat behind today as we pay a visit to the ancient site of Nisa. Nisa holds great significance as the former capital of the Parthian Empire and as a major strong hold of the Zoroastrian region and the god Mithra.  

After our visit to Nisa we will have lunch in a nearby local restaurant  and then head off into the vast horizons of the Karakum Desert to witness possibly the strangest site on our 5 Stans tour – the Darvaza Gas Crater or the ‘Door to Hell’ as it is more commonly known.

The crater is the result of the ignition of a sinkhole during soviet drilling for gas. We will spend the night at the crater in yurts near the rim.

If you have ever thought about visiting the crater now is the time to do it, the Turkmen government is currently trying to find a way to extinguish it (not their first attempt) so it may not be around forever. You can find out more about this plan HERE .

This morning we will wake up in our yurts and then head for the town of Dashoguz and the border with Uzbekistan. Once we arrive in Uzbekistan we will head for the city of Khiva where we will have lunch in a local restaurant.

After lunch we will have a short orientation of the old town – Ichon-Qala before checking in to our hotel where we will spend the next 2-nights on our 5 Stans tour.

Experience a captivating morning in the enchanting city of Khiva as we delve into its rich history and architectural marvels. Embark on a journey to the Kutli Murad Medressa, a stunning 19th-century masterpiece adorned with intricate tilework and serene courtyards, and then explore the captivating chambers of Tash Chauli, a beautiful palace that was once home to the rulers of Khiva.

The remainder of the day is yours to explore Khiva on your own. You may wish to further explore the old town of Ichon-Kala, relax in a coffee shop or just get some rest before continuing on your 5 Stans tour tomorrow morning.

After breakfast this morning we will transfer to the airport for our short flight to Tashkent, Uzbekistan’s capital.

On arrival we will visit the immense Chorsu Bazaar one of the biggest markets on our 5 Stans tour. Browse the local produce, chat with the sellers and inspect the array of local handicrafts on offer. A short walk from the bazaar is the Kukeldash Madrassa, a centre for Islamic learning, this beautiful structure was also converted into a caravanserai, a lodge for Silk Road traders in the 18 th century.

Next, we will admire Tashkent’s main attraction, the blue domed Hazrati Imam complex. The religious heart of Tashkent, the buildings are beautiful examples of Uzbek medieval architecture. One of the madrassas also contains a courtyard with local shops selling unique handicrafts.

For lunch today, we are in for a real treat as we visit the Central Asian Plov Centre. You will no doubt have tried plov by now, which is popular in all countries on our 5 Stans tour, however this dish comprising rice, carrots, lamb, spices and sometimes chili is especially celebrated in Uzbekistan.

After lunch, we will head underground for a short tour of the Tashkent metro’s most beautiful stations. During the Soviet period, the Russian’s built opulent metro systems in some of the satellite states of Central Asia.

After our metro tour we will check in to our hotel.

This evening we may have the option to see a ballet or an opera at the Navoi Opera House.

** Please note, ballet or opera in Tashkent is not included in the tour price and will be at an additional cost once in Tashkent. Seeing a ballet or opera is dependent on the schedule of the opera house and what is on while we are visiting. This information will be released closer to the tour date.

We say goodbye to Uzbekistan today and head for the border with Kazakhstan, where we will spend the best part of the morning crossing the border. Once in Kazakhstan we will head for the town of Shymkent where we will visit the so-called ‘White Mosque’ so named because it looks like a giant yurt.

After visiting the mosque, we will have our first taste of Kazakh food on our 5 Stans tour with lunch in a local restaurant.

We will then continue our journey on to Turkestan where we will spend the next two nights.

We will spend the morning visiting the sights of Turkestan, starting with the Mausoleum of Khoja Ahmed Yasawi. Khoja Ahmed Yasawi was a 12th-century Turkic poet, philosopher, and Sufi mystic, he founded a Sufi order known as the Yasawiyya, which blended elements of Islam and Turkish tribal traditions.

Our next stop will be the mausoleum of Rabia Sultan Begim, the daughter of Ulugh Beg, the astronomer we met in Samarkand at his observatory. We will visit the city’s Friday Mosque, fortress and other monuments in the open air Hazrat Sultan Reserve Museum.

The remainder of the day will be yours to explore Turkestan on your own. Take in more of the city’s monuments, enjoy a meal in a local restaurant, make some new local friends or choose to rest up and recuperate before we move on to Taraz tomorrow.

We will get back on the road today and head east to the city of Taraz. Along the way we will stop at the archaeological site of Otrar. The remnants of a once prosperous Silk Road city, Otrar offers a glimpse into the rich history, trade, and cultural exchange that thrived in the region.

Next we move along to the Arystanbab Mausoleum. Built over the grave of a religious mystic by Amir Timur, legend tells us that Timur dreamed that the mausoleum had to be built to enable him to construct a mosque over the grave of Ahmet Yesevi – another Turkic poet and Sufi mystic.

After lunch in a local restaurant, we will continue our drive to Taraz, arriving in the late afternoon.

Today is a big day on our 5 Stans tour as we head out to explore the city of Taraz. After checking out of our hotel we will visit the Aisha Bibi Mausoleum, a sacred site nestled amidst the picturesque landscapes. Marvel at the exquisite architectural beauty of this 12th-century mausoleum, dedicated to a legendary woman.

Continuing our exploration, we make our way to the Abdykadyr mosque, an architectural gem that stands as a testament to the rich Islamic heritage of the region. Step inside and admire the intricate designs, vibrant colours, and the tranquil atmosphere that envelopes this spiritual haven. Learn about the religious significance of the mosque and its role in the local community.

Next, we head to the Tekturmas Architectural complex, where we have the opportunity to marvel at the breathtaking panoramic views of Taraz. The view from the complex offers a glimpse into the vibrant past of the city and its significance as a major trading hub along the Silk Road.

As we continue our city exploration, we take a leisurely walk through Zhengis Park, a serene oasis in the heart of Taraz. Enjoy the peaceful ambiance as you stroll along the paths, surrounded by lush greenery and blooming flowers.

To immerse ourselves further in the local lifestyle, we visit the vibrant Shakhristan Bazaar. This bustling marketplace offers a feast for the senses, with its colourful array of stalls selling spices, textiles, handicrafts, and traditional Kazakh delicacies.

The remainder of the afternoon and evening are free in Taraz. Late tonight we catch the overnight train to Almaty. You may want to use this time to explore more of Taraz or even to grab some snacks for the train.

Wake up on the tracks this morning in your sleeper car on the train before disembarking in Almaty.

The train will arrive early so our first stop will be a local café where you can buy some breakfast.

After we have eaten, we will head out to explore Almaty with stops at the beautiful Zenkiv’s Cathedral and Central Mosque of Almaty. We will also visit Almaty TV tower for a bird’s eye-view of the city.

In the early afternoon we will check in to our hotel and have some free time to freshen up and grab some lunch.

In the evening we will visit the Arasan Baths for a traditional hammam. A hammam, or Turkish bath is a communal bath house (men and women are separate) where people used to congregate to get clean (in previous eras, not every house had running water) and to socialise – the tradition of socialising at the bath house has been an integral part of community life since Roman times. Today a hammam is a unique spa experience and will no doubt hit the spot after our night on the train.

After our decadent spa experience, we will head to a local restaurant to sample the local dishes of Almaty.

Another long day awaits us as we head for the final Stan on our 5 Stans tour – Kyrgyzstan. It is a long drive to the border, but once there we should be able to cross easily. Once in Kyrgyzstan we will head for the shores of the country’s biggest lake – Issyk Kul. We will have lunch in a local restaurant on the shore and try some local Kyrgyz food.

After lunch we will continue our journey along the shores of the lake to the lakeside town of Cholpon-Ata where we will check in to our hotel.

At dusk we will take to the water with a short cruise on the lake for sunset.

Prior to departing Cholpon-Ata this morning we will discover some of Kyrgyzstan’s most ancient past at the open-air Petroglyph Museum. Some of the Petroglyphs date back over 4000 years, however most can be dated to the bronze age (around 1500 BCE) and were carved by the Saka-Usun tribes.

In the mid-morning we will start our journey to the wilderness of the Jyrgalan region, a place where very few outside travellers have ventured. This evening’s accommodation will surely be a highlight of your 5 Stans tour, with a stay at a farm where they breed Kyrgyz racehorses. The use of horses in Kyrgyzstan is still of vital importance in a country which still has a large nomadic population, and which participates in many difference horse sports including horse racing and the traditional game of Kok-Boru.

Lunch and dinner will be served at the farm and after dinner we will be treated to some ‘frog therapy’ at a nearby pond.

Later we are in for a treat with a traditional display of folk dancing and music at the farm.

This morning we will leave Jyrgalan and travel to the eastern shore of Issyk Kul Lake to the town of Karakol. On arrival we will visit the wooden Russian Orthodox Church and Dungan Mosque, as well as take a stroll through the local bazaar.

Lunch today will be served in the house of a local Dungan family. The Dungan people are a mix of peoples of Arab and Chinese ethnicity and who emigrated to Karakol in the 1880’s to escape religious persecution.

After lunch we will transfer to Jeti Oguz gorge where we will see the enormous stone formations of the ‘Seven Bulls’ and ‘Broken Heart’.

This evening we will sleep in traditional nomadic yurts in Jeti Oguz, surrounded by the stunning scenery.

This morning we will emerge from our yurts, instantly surrounded by nature. We will enjoy a view of Terskey-Ala-Too ridge and after breakfast we will begin the journey to Bokonbeyevo on the southern shore of Issyk-Kul Lake.

Our first stop along the way will be the so-called ‘fairy-tale’ gorge. Solid clusters of limestone and sandstone form colourful castle like structures, fairy figures and churches making for a magical experience.

On arrival in Bokonbeyevo village we will visit the house of a local eagle hunter to meet the eagles and learn all about the nomadic practice of eagle hunting, before arriving at our yurt camp on the southern shore of Issky-Kul Lake. You will have gathered by now than nomadic living is still very much alive in all the countries on our 5 Stans tour, but it is still the most prevalent in Kyrgyzstan.

We will arise early this morning and head to the town of Tokmok where we will have some free time for lunch before heading to the archaeological site of Burana.

The site of Burana is all that remains of the ancient city of Balasagun, which was established by the Karakhanids, a Turkic khanate which ruled over Central Asia in the 9 th century CE. The site contains grave markers called ‘balbals’, three mausoleums, the remnants of a castle and most famously the enigmatic ‘Burana Tower’, a large free-standing minaret.

After exploring Burana we will transfer to Bishkek, the capital of Kyrgyzstan and check into our hotel for the final two nights of our 5 Stans tour.

This morning we will begin our exploration of Bishkek. We will start with a walk through the colourful Osh bazaar where we will have the opportunity to buy fresh produce such as fresh fruit and nuts directly from the local people.

After the bazaar we will continue on to Ala-Too square, built in 1984 to celebrate the soviet republic of Kyrgyzstan. Our next stop will be ‘Old Square’ which is home to a giant statue of soviet hero Vladimir Lenin. We will visit the Kyrgyz National Philharmonic Hall and Manas complex, dedicated to one of Kyrgyzstan’s national heroes.

The afternoon is free for you to explore Bishkek on your own, you may wish to use this time to see more of the city or to relax after the days adventure.

This evening we will head out into the city for a special farewell dinner to say goodbye to your trip leader and travel companions and to reflect on the amazing time you had on your 5 Stans tour.

Your 5 Stans tour comes to an end this morning after breakfast.

Details – 5 Stans tour

Duration: 25 Days

Group size: Minimum 6 / Maximum 15

Trip code: LRDB

Cost: $12 985.00 AUD twin share

Single supplement : $1259.00 AUD

• 25-nights’ accommodation in historic and traditionally inspired hotels, guest houses, yurt camps and overnight train.
• Meals as specified in itinerary (B = Breakfast / L = Lunch / D = Dinner)
• One-way flight from Khiva to Tashkent
• Sleeper train from Taraz to Almaty (4-berth accommodation)
• Invitation letter for Turkmenistan visa
• All other transport as specified in the itinerary
• Services of your Inverted Atlas trip leader and local guides

Optional Extras (not included)

• Tashkent: Night at the Opera or Ballet

Trip price does not include

• International airfares
• Airport transfers on arrival and departure
• Visas for Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, Turkmenistan, Tajikistan, Kyrgyzstan (if required)
• Meals not included as per trip itinerary including drinks and mini bar
• Additional accommodation before or after the tour
• Items of a personal nature including but not limited to laundry, souvenirs, porterage etc.
• Travel insurance – please note comprehensive travel insurance is a condition of travel with Inverted Atlas

Journey Rating – Quest

This 5 Stans tour travels through Central Asia, a region which can be highly unpredictable and you should expect that things will not always go exactly to plan (that’s all part of the adventure, right?). Central Asia is a region that is not overly accustomed to tourists and travelers. The friendly local people have one of the most welcoming and hospitable attitudes toward visitors in the world, however, it does mean that tourist type infrastructure and service standards may not be of the quality you expect at home.

This trip does involve a lot of walking during the sightseeing, to get the most out of this trip you should be able to walk confidently across uneven surfaces and climb stairs.

There are a few long travel days and most of the time we will be checking into an immersive hotel of a comfortable standard. On occasion we will be staying in rustic yurt camps, which will have shared facilities and accommodation.

There is no dress code on this 5 Stans tour, however these are moderate Islamic countries, and you should dress conservatively to avoid causing offense culturally. Woman may be required to cover their shoulders, heads and knees while exploring religious institutions and men should wear long trousers on these days.

Trains in Uzbekistan often stop at stations where the platform is quite low and require a step or ‘scramble’ up into the train, trains also often do not stop for long periods of time giving the group very little chance to get on and get settled before departing. Good quality hospitals, pharmacies and other public amenities will be limited to big cities but should never be too far away.

A note about fitness

This 5 Stans tour requires a good level of physical fitness. You should be able to walk up to 4km over uneven surfaces during sightseeing, which will sometimes be at an incline. In addition, you should be able to climb up to 200 stairs unassisted and use an eastern style squat toilet (beware if you have knee issues). Squat toilets are common in public places, trains and at some of the yurt camps – don’t worry all hotels have western upright toilets.

You will need to be able to carry your own luggage to and from the coach and on and off the train. (Due to OH&S regulations our trip leaders are not able to assist with luggage.) Train accommodation in Kazakhstan is in a 4-berth bunk style compartment (2 up / 2 down), you will need to be able to climb into a top bunk on the train as a lower berth can not be guaranteed.

In addition, you should be in good health, with no major chronic conditions requiring frequent medical attention. This trip often travels through remote locations where the availability of a hospital or even phone reception to call an ambulance is limited. While all our trip leaders are required to have a valid first aid certificate, they are far from doctors and any assistance they are able to provide will be limited to basic first aid. For more information please see our booking conditions . If you are unsure about your ability to participate fully and safely on this trip please give us a call and we will happily discuss this with you.

Single supplement

Traveling by yourself? No problem, we love single travellers and don’t believe in penalising them by charging half the trip price again for our single supplement. With us you are only paying the actual cost to have a room all to yourself. If you’re up for making a new friend, you can elect to share with another single traveller of the same sex and only pay the twin-share price. The choice is yours!

Please note that in this instance, the single supplement payable does not include the yurt camps which are in shared style accommodation or the train from Taraz to Almaty which is in a 4-berth compartment in which you may be sharing with local people.

Trip leader description

Accompanying you along on your 5 Stans tour will be your Inverted Atlas trip leader. Your trip leader is a logistics extraordinaire, keeps the trip running smoothly and ensures you have the best time possible on your trip. It is important to know that while your trip leader has the best job in the world, they aren’t actually on holidays, but rather they are there to make sure you have the best time while you are on your holiday! Your trip leader may at times need some time out so that they can complete back of house tasks that ensure everyone continues to enjoy the trip. It is also your trip leaders’ job to handle any issues (heaven forbid!) that come up while you’re on your trip like:

• If you lose your passport or other travel documents
• If there is a problem with your room at the booked accommodation – seriously please tell your trip leader don’t wait until you leave
• If you become unwell and need to find a pharmacy
• Assisting with restaurant recommendations or additional sightseeing during free time
• Questions regarding the itinerary

Your trip leader will have some good local knowledge about the destination in which you are traveling, however they are not a ‘local guide’. You’re welcome to ask your trip leader anything about the trip and if they don’t know they will find out and get back to you. Other people you will meet along the way are ‘local guides’ who are generally available to the group in specific towns or at specific sites like national parks, temples or archaeological sites. These people are the local experts and will be able to answer any questions you may have about the history and culture of a specific site.

Itinerary disclaimer

The itinerary for this 5 Stans tour is correct at the time of upload to our website and we have composed it in good faith. From time to time we may elect to make changes before departure, if we are making a big change we will of course notify you, however if it is a small change this will be reflected in the final trip notes. So, make sure you download these prior to departure. Small changes prior to departure are usually made with the groups best interests in mind and come about due to liaising with our best resources – our past travelers and of course our trip leaders! The ability to change and evolve depending on what our travelers enjoy is what makes us such a great trip operator.

While we strive to operate our trips exactly to the letter of the itinerary, sometimes we may need to make changes on the ground while the group is on the road. This is all part of the adventure of traveling and we would ask that you come on your trip with an open mind and a good sense of humour because as much as we want it to, everything doesn’t always go to plan. In fact, these impromptu situations often make the best stories that you can have a laugh with your friends about later.

Age requirements

Minimum Age: 18 years

Due to the shared nature of some of the accommodation and remote locations on this trip children under 18 years of age are not permitted on this 5 Stans tour.

There is no upper age limit for this trip, but you should consider the above fitness requirements prior to booking. If you are 65 years or over, you will be asked to complete our Health Check Form and have your medical practitioner sign it to confirm you are in good health and able to participate safely on this trip.

Travel insurance

Please note that comprehensive travel insurance is a condition of travel with Inverted Atlas. Insurance must include provision for medical situations, emergency medical repatriation to your home country and personal liability at a minimum. Proof of valid travel insurance will be requested by your trip leader on arrival at the pre-departure meeting. Please have this paperwork available for them. If you are unable to provide proof of comprehensive travel insurance, you may not be allowed to join the trip and no refund will be payable.

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Best Time to Travel Central Asia

• Best time to travel to Kazakhstan – June, September
• Best time to travel to Kyrgyzstan – July, August
• Best time to travel to Tajikistan – July, August
• Best time to travel to Turkmenistan – April, May & September, October
• Best time to travel to Uzbekistan – April, May & September, October

Best time to travel Central Asia, greatly depends on your exact plans. If you would like to visit all five Stans, the end of summer and the beginning of Autumn is the best time to go.

Climate of Central Asia

Geography of central asia.

Central Asia has very diverse landscape varying from large deserts to high mountains over 7000 meters high peaks. Uzbekistan’s landscape is mostly shaped by Kyzylkum desert which is about 298,000 km 2.   Turkmenistan’s landscape is shaped by Karakum desert which is about 350,000 km² and occupies 3/4th of the country. Kazakhstan’s territory is mostly covered by steppes and in the south near Almaty region by Tian Shan mountains. Kyrgyzstan is a mountainous country and most of its territory lay above 1500 meters. Most of Tajikistan’s territory is covered by Pamir mountains and over half of the country is located above 3000 meters. In the mountains of Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan, the temperature is very pleasant in summer. Deserts and the steppe get very hot in summer therefore, Uzbekistan and Turkmenistan are best to visit in Spring or Autumn.

Visiting cities of Central Asia

If you would like to visit the travel highlights of whole Central Asia, we have a perfect tour at the beginning or the end of summer, so you can visit mountains in Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan, and enjoy pleasant weather in cities of Uzbekistan, Turkmenistan and Kazakhstan.

Tips Turkmenistan

Kalpak Travel

Turkmenistan

Turkmenistan – top 5 Places to Visit

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10 Trips in the United States Everyone Should Add to Their Bucket List

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When someone says “bucket list trips,” it’s all too easy to imagine the journeys you’d like to take in the future, in some faraway someday to celebrate a momentous occasion or mark a sort of final hurrah. That’s all well and good, but as they say: There’s no time like the present. All across the vast United States lie innumerable opportunities to fulfill a childhood—or adulthood—dream, to experience the country in all its splendor, whether rural or urban, culinary or cultural, educational or just plain ol’ fun. At Condé Nast Traveler , we spend our days learning and writing about the best experience all 50 states have to offer—this is our ultimate wish list.

Here are 10 bucket list trips that Condé Nast Traveler editors want to take (or have taken) in their lifetime, from a bluegrass trail in Virginia and an excursion, to large-scale land art in Utah , to an expedition cruise in Alaska . Get inspired below and make sure you go prepared, whether you’re going solo or with your partner, on a road trip or backpacking .

The Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta is the largest hot air balloon festival in the world.

Hot air ballooning in New Mexico

You don’t have to go all the way to Cappadocia, Turkey , to see magnificent hot air balloons in the sky. In fact, the largest hot air balloon festival in the world happens in Albuquerque, New Mexico. I have wanted to explore New Mexico’s largest city and take to the sky for quite a while, especially after experiencing paragliding for the first time. Going on now for 52 years and lasting over nine days, just 20 minutes from downtown, the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta is full of light shows, fireworks, live music, cultural dances, and floating balloons that fill the sky night and day. After being up in the air, a road trip to White Sands National Park would be the perfect way to end the trip—and check another national park off the list. — Kayla Brock , associate social media manager

Following a bluegrass trail in Virginia

I have always wanted to drive The Crooked Road through Virginia, which connects bluegrass and Appalachian music venues in Southwest Virginia—over 10 bigger venues, and about 50 smaller ones. I’d love to drive through the rolling hills, pulling over to places like the Floyd Country Store for a little dose of twang, and definitely for some whole-hog Virginia barbecue along the way. This year, 2024, marks the 20th anniversary of the trail, so I’m hoping to drive through during the fall when the festivities are in full swing. — Megan Spurrell , associate director of articles

Visiting Point Dume in Malibu, California

If you want to feel like you’re on the edge of the world, while overlooking clear ocean water and a view that will leave your mouth gaped open, this long bluff that juts out into the Pacific Ocean is the place. Point Dume is European-feeling in the way its rugged cliff formations meet the beach, but it offers an uniquely beautiful experience to those accustomed to less dramatic coastal views in the US. Well known for surfing, scuba diving, and whale watching during the December to mid-April migration period, Point Dume is only a short 45 minute drive from most central Los Angeles cities like Santa Monica—and the mesmerizing drive up the famous Pacific Coast Highway is probably its own bucket-list item too. — Emily Adler , associate social media manager

A horseback riding trip through Wyoming through Teton Canyon to the edge of Yellowstone National Park promises breathtaking views of the American landscape.

Horseback riding in Wyoming

Every year since I moved to the United States—now 11 years ago—I have made mental plans to go horseback riding through Wyoming . Specifically through Teton Canyon and all the way up to the edge of Yellowstone National Park . Every year, I have failed to make it happen. But the dream remains intact: to clip-clop my way through the wilderness, ride through pebbled creeks, into forests, up the mountains, and across meadows filled with a spread of wildflowers that would make Klimt gasp, stopping only to set up camp, refuel, and swap stories by campfires. Throw in a few herds of roaming bison and that fantasy would be complete. — Arati Menon , global digital director

Taking an airboat ride through the Florida Everglades

Florida’s two biggest tourist draws are arguably Orlando , with its endless sprawl of theme parks, and Miami . If you’re visiting the latter, tack on a trip to Everglades National Park (it’s also a good add-on if you’re headed to the Keys). Growing up in south Florida, it was a place where we often brought out-of-town visitors, and visited on school field trips. Described as the largest subtropical wilderness in the United States by the National Park Service, the Everglades is home to alligators, flamingos, egrets, manatees, and the Florida panther. You’re all but guaranteed to see some alligators on an airboat ride through the marshy wetlands—and if you go to the Everglades Alligator Farm , you can even hold a small one (or at least see some up close and out of the water). There are expansive biking and walking trails throughout the park, too. I haven’t been anywhere else quite like it in the US; it feels worlds away from Florida’s urban areas. — Madison Flager , senior commerce editor

A winter expedition cruise in Alaska

Having become, as a result of my work, an unexpected cruiser over the course of the last year or so, I’m quite keen to get on a boat and go someplace where the cruise actually heightens one’s experience of and access to a destination. The first that comes to mind, of course, is the Galapagos. But stateside, from what I’ve gathered, cruising gets you the furthest in Alaska during winter, when the conditions are brutal and the seaside cities that dot the coast feel especially far to move between—not to mention the glaciers and other gems of natural majesty. — Charlie Hobbs , associate editor

Seeing Robert Smithson’s Spiral Jetty in Utah

For years I’ve wanted to put my road-tripping prowess to the test by driving out to the Spiral Jetty . The jetty is a 1,500-foot earthwork coil of basalt rock and mud that sprawls into the mirror-like expanse of the Great Salt Lake . Robert Smithson sculpted the piece in 1970, though it was submerged under the lake for over 30 years until it surfaced again due to drought in 2004. The journey there is a scenic montage through rural Utah benchmarked by cattle guards and artifacts from long-abandoned oil-drilling ventures. I can’t imagine a better place to stretch my legs and perch after a long drive than the jetty’s rugged banks with the lake’s surreal magenta waters surrounding me. — Kat Chen , editorial assistant

A trip along the bayous of Louisiana can yield recommendations from locals on everything Cajun, from swamp shacks to and shrimp boats.

Treading along a Louisiana bayou

I have been possessed with this great magnetism to Louisiana ’s bayous ever since I read Joan Didion ’s South and West around five years ago. She deems the swamp terrains complex and invigorating, recalling drinks with the locals of Covington, Louisiana, who touch on their colorful and wild lifestyle, parties, and food . As a born-and-bred New Yorker, I’ve never experienced anything like this before. For a rich contrast—and perhaps for comfort—I would ideally stay in New Orleans for the first few nights. But the majority of my trip would be set along the Bayou Lafourche , along coastal marshes and moss-draped trees. I’d welcome the hot humid air like a hug and look to locals for recommendations on Cajun culture, swamp shacks, and shrimp boats. — Jessica Chapel , editorial assistant

Camping in Acadia National Park

For my first trip to Maine a few years ago, I drove up the East Coast with one of my best friends from college and went camping in Acadia National Park . We spent the long weekend hiking through the park’s trails with stunning views of the water and mountains, picnicking at a lighthouse, swimming in the clear ocean waves (it’s as cold as they say), and of course, eating many variations of lobster in Bar Harbor. On the drive up, we stopped in Camden, Maine, and spent the night at a friend’s farm, and on the way back I visited family in Cape Cod. I’d recommend combining Rhode Island, Massachusetts, and Maine for a quintessential New England road trip. Just be sure to reserve your Acadia camping spot (reservations open up two months in advance and book up relatively quickly). Go in the summer for the best weather, or during the autumn months to catch the foliage. — Hannah Towey , associate editor

Criss-crossing the United States for its wine regions

When it comes to travel, I cannot help but eternally cast my gaze to non-US elsewheres. My bucket-list trips include learning to tango in Buenos Aires , going on safari in Botswana (and staying at ever-gorgeous Xigera ), and riding the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express (a dream that, to my unbelievable privilege, recently became a reality ). But when I think about it really hard, I’d give my left arm to go on a harvest-season-long trip hopping around the United States and tasting its myriad wines: from the vineyards of the classic Napa Valley , to the under-sung Willamette Valley in Oregon, to the rising scene in Idaho’s wine country. Ever since I became an oenophile, I’ve never given California Chardonnays a second thought (I blame Bravo television shows), so I’d be glad to receive a re-education, as well as an introduction to the finest vintages of the Finger Lakes and Texas Hill Country . I’d need a private jet to efficiently travel between all of them before the season turns, so I guess I could give up my right arm, too. All I need for a wine tasting is, I guess, my mouth. — Matt Ortile , associate editor

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