Step into the heart of the ancient Silk Road on a 23-day expedition that will lead you across the Five Stans—Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, Kyrgyzstan, and Kazakhstan—unveiling a world shaped by empires, scholars, and nomads. On this comprehensive tour, you will encounter some of the most legendary UNESCO World Heritage Sites, from the intricate tilework of grand madrassas in Samarkand, Khiva, and Bukhara to the ancient ruins of Nisa and Merv. Your journey will lead you through traditional villages, where you will experience yurt camping beside serene alpine lakes and meet local artisans who keep ancient crafts alive. From the vast deserts and open steppes to the crystalline lakes of the Fann and Tien Shan mountains, this 3-week passage promises one in depth adventure through the heart of Central Asia.
Your adventure commences in Turkmenistan’s marble city of Ashgabat before delving into the ancient ruins of Merv, Nisa, and Kunya Urgench. In Uzbekistan, uncover the legendary cities by train of Khiva, Bukhara, and Samarkand, meeting master artisans along the way. Journey into Tajikistan, explore the 5,500-year-old ruins of Sarazm, hike to the Seven Lakes in the Fann Mountains and explore the ancient towns of Penjikent and Istaravshan. The journey continues into Kyrgyzstan, where you will experience nomadic life at Son Kul lake, witness eagle hunters, and enjoy a home-cooked meal with a Dungan family. Your odyssey concludes in Kazakhstan, where you will marvel at Charyn Canyon before exploring the vibrant city of Almaty.
This package includes 22 nights’ accommodation in charming and deluxe hotels on a twin share basis including 2 nights in a yurt camp. Specified meals and transfers are included as well as tour leader, ensuring your adventure is both seamless and authentic.
Experience an odyssey that calls to the soul of the true explorer—an invitation to trace the whispers of empires and nomads across the Five Stans and truly uncover the living history of the Silk Road.
Alternate Route: Almaty (Kazakhstan) - Ashgabat (Turkmenistan). The alternate route includes Chon-Kemin and Bishkek and stays in guesthouses and hotels rather than yurts. Please contact us to book for alternate route.
Dates or itinerary don't fit? We are specialising in bespoke "tailor-made" luxury or private journeys to Central Asia. Please contact us for a "tailor-made" itinerary for your perfect adventure.
This tour is eligible to earn ONLYLUXE reward points.