The Five Stans of the Silk Road Immersion (From Ashgabat to Almaty) 23D22N, Fully Guided

Your journey commences in Ashgabat, the gleaming white marble capital of Turkmenistan. In accordance to Turkmen law, we have arranged your arrival transfer to ensure a seamless and comfortable beginning to your adventure. Please refer to our ‘More Info’ section below to find more specific details in how to get there.

Today is dedicated to your arrival, with no planned activities, allowing you the flexibility to settle in, especially as many flights land late in the evening or in the early hours of tomorrow morning. Should you wish to stay extra nights to extend your exploration of Ashgabat's unique monuments and grand avenues, please contact us.

Retreat to the elegant Hotel Sport, an architectural marvel nestled in the foothills of the Kopetdag mountains. This opulent oasis offers wellness facilities, including a world-class spa, indoor and outdoor pools, and extensive sports amenities, ensuring a restorative stay amidst breathtaking scenery.

After what may have been a late arrival, we will convene for a welcome briefing at 11 am before setting out to explore the fascinating city of Ashgabat.

Ashgabat holds a Guinness World Record for the highest concentration of white marble buildings on Earth. In the post-Soviet era, these grand structures were erected as a powerful display of the nation's prosperity, creating a surreal and unforgettable cityscape often described as "Pyongyang meets Las Vegas."

Our half-day tour will unveil the city's most iconic landmarks. We will visit the magnificent Ertuğrul Gazi Mosque, a stunning gift from Turkey reminiscent of Istanbul's Blue Mosque, and wander through the expansive Independence Park, home to grand statues and monuments. We will also see the imposing Neutrality Arch, once topped with a golden statue of the former president that rotated to face the sun, and the soaring Constitution Monument. You'll have the chance to see the Alem Cultural and Entertainment Centre, home to the world's largest indoor Ferris wheel, and the uniquely designed Wedding Palace, which offers panoramic views from its hilltop perch. Our exploration continues with a visit to the Halk Hakydasy Memorial Complex, a poignant tribute to those who defended the nation, and the National Museum, which houses significant artifacts detailing Turkmenistan's rich history.

Later, a short 40-minute tour will reveal the city's dazzling transformation as it lights up at night. To cap off our first full day together, your tour leader will host a welcome group dinner, providing the perfect opportunity to get to know your fellow

Following an early breakfast, our journey continues with a transfer of up to four hours to Mary, a modern city that acts as our gateway to the ancient wonders of Merv.

In the early afternoon, we will immerse ourselves in this vast World Heritage site, which was once one of the largest and most magnificent cities on Earth. As we explore the key surviving areas, you'll witness the windswept remains of crumbling towers and defensive walls, gaining a profound sense of the immense scale that so impressed medieval travellers along the Silk Road.

Later, we will return to the contemporary city of Mary to explore its modern heart. Our visit will include the striking Juma Mosque, a central place of worship, and the charming Russian Orthodox Church, a small yet significant landmark reflecting the region's diverse cultural history.

After a day of exploring ancient marvels, you will retire to the elegant Margush Hotel, a sanctuary of comfort conveniently located in the heart of Mary. Unwind with a dip in the indoor swimming pool or rejuvenate your senses at the wellness centre before enjoying a delightful dinner at the hotel's esteemed restaurant.

After returning to Ashgabat, we spend the early afternoon visiting the Magtymguly Monument, a grand tribute to the revered 18th-century poet who is considered the father of Turkmen literature. Our journey through history continues at the nearby archaeological site of Nisa, a UNESCO World Heritage site that was once the capital of the powerful Parthian Empire. As we explore its ancient ruins, imagine a time over 2,000 years ago when this city controlled a vast territory stretching from modern-day Iraq to Pakistan.

Our final visit of the day offers a glimpse into a treasured aspect of Turkmen culture: a trip to a local farm renowned for breeding Akhal-Teke horses. These magnificent animals, celebrated for their speed, endurance, and distinctive metallic coats, are a profound symbol of national pride.

Later, we transfer to Ashgabat airport for our evening flight to Dashoguz.

Upon your arrival in Dashoguz, you will be welcomed into the modern comforts of the Dashoguz Hotel, a contemporary establishment known for being one of the city's finest. Here, you can unwind in the large indoor swimming pool or relax in the sauna before retreating to your well-appointed room for a restful evening.

After breakfast, we drive for 2 hours to Kunya Urgench, a UNESCO World Heritage site that was once the glorious capital of the Khorezm region. This ancient city preserves a remarkable collection of monuments dating from the 11th to 16th centuries, showcasing the architectural prowess of its time. Your tour leader will guide you through the historic remains, from the majestic gates of a former caravanserai to the silent grandeur of ancient mausoleums. The visit culminates at the awe-inspiring Gutlug Timur Minaret, which soars to a height of nearly 200 feet, a testament to the city's golden age. The intricate craftsmanship displayed here would go on to influence architectural traditions across Iran and Afghanistan, and even shape the Mughal designs of 16th-century India.

Following our exploration, we make the 2-hour return journey to Dashoguz before continuing to the Shavat border post. Here, you will bid farewell to your Turkmen tour leader and complete the necessary border formalities to enter Uzbekistan, where your new Uzbek leader awaits. This process, which can take a couple of hours and includes a short shuttle bus ride across no-man’s-land (please have US$1 in cash ready), is a unique part of the modern Silk Road experience. Once cleared, we continue our journey to the legendary city of Khiva, anticipating an arrival around 6pm.

Settle into the boutique, Malika Khorezm, a sanctuary of comfort located mere steps from the gates of Ichan-Kala, the ancient walled inner town. Here, you can unwind in the tranquil courtyard, indulge in a restorative sauna session, or ascend to the rooftop terrace to witness the sun cast its golden glow over the legendary cityscape.

Today is dedicated to exploring the wonders of Khiva's meticulously preserved old city, the Itchan Kala. Within these ancient walls, a treasure trove of architectural marvels awaits. Your tour leader will guide you through this living museum, beginning at the Kalta Minor Minaret, a stunning, yet unfinished, monument adorned with vibrant blue tiles that was once envisioned to be the tallest in the Islamic world.

Next, you'll step into the Kunya-Ark, a formidable 12th-century fortress that served as the residence of the Khiva khans, offering a glimpse into the opulent and powerful world they inhabited. Find a moment of peace at the serene mausoleum of Pakhlavan Makhmud, the city's revered patron saint, a poet and philosopher whose final resting place is a masterpiece of tilework and quiet contemplation.

Your journey continues to the elegant Islam Khoja Minaret, the tallest in Khiva, and its adjoining madrasah. You'll then enter the atmospheric Juma Mosque, a truly unique structure where the roof is supported by a forest of 218 intricately carved wooden columns, each one telling its own story. Further highlights await at the lavishly decorated Tash Khauli palace complex, a maze of courtyards and ornate chambers that once housed the khan's harem, and the Allakuli Khan Madrassah.

As you wander through these historic lanes, you will also be invited into artisan workshops. Here, you'll meet the master craftspeople keeping Khiva's ancient traditions alive, learning firsthand about the delicate techniques behind the creation of wool and silk carpets, vibrant embroidery, traditional ceramics, and masterful wood inlay.

After breakfast, your journey continues across the arid plains of Khorezm. Though now sparsely settled, this land was once a marshy, densely inhabited region and home to the Massagetae Scythians, formidable horseback archers renowned for resisting empires and even defeating Cyrus the Great in 529 BCE.

Your main destination is the majestic Ayaz-Qala, a sprawling fortress complex dating back to the 6th century. As you explore its weathered ramparts perched atop a prominent hill, you will be rewarded with sweeping, panoramic views across the vast steppe. Depending on timing and accessibility, there may also be an opportunity to visit other nearby desert castles, each a silent testament to the region's storied past. Afterwards, you will proceed to the city of Urgench, a drive of approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes.

In the afternoon, you will board a train from Urgench to Bukhara. This 6.5-hour journey offers a unique opportunity to witness the dramatic, shifting landscapes of the Kyzyl-Kum desert from the comfort of your carriage. The service typically uses classic Soviet-era carriages with four-berth compartments, providing an authentic travel experience. We recommend bringing your own snacks and water to enjoy during the trip. Upon your late arrival in the sacred city of Bukhara, you will be transferred directly to your hotel for a well-deserved rest.

Nestled in the heart of Bukhara's enchanting old city, just a stone's throw from the iconic Lyabi-Hauz complex, the Sultan Hotel welcomes you into a realm of traditional elegance. After a day of exploration, find serenity within its walls, perhaps by taking a refreshing dip in the indoor swimming pool or unwinding in the tranquil ambiance of the courtyard.

Note: timings and itinerary may vary depending on train schedules.

Step into the living history of Bukhara, a city over 2,000 years old whose ancient heart still echoes with the footsteps of countless traders and travellers on the legendary Silk Road. Today, you will immerse yourself in this labyrinth of mosques, mausoleums, and madrasahs, beginning with a visit to the historic Lyabi Khauz complex. Centred around the oldest reflective pool in Central Asia, this tranquil plaza offers a perfect introduction to the city's architectural elegance.

Your exploration continues at the Chashma-Ayub Mausoleum, built over a sacred spring believed to have been created by the prophet Job. You will then proceed to the magnificent Mausoleum of the Samanids, the 10th-century dynastic tomb of Bukhara's former rulers and a masterpiece of early Islamic architecture. Next, venture into the Ark Citadel, a formidable fortress that served as the residence of Bukhara's emirs for centuries.

You will also discover the Poi Kalyan Complex, the city's religious heart, dominated by the awe-inspiring 48-meter-high Kalyan Minaret. Stand in the courtyard of the grand Kalyan Mosque, a sprawling structure capable of holding 12,000 people, its galleries crowned by 288 distinctive domes. Your journey through Bukhara's treasures will also include the Nodir Divanbegi Madrasah and the iconic Chor-Minor, a charming and unusual mosque distinguished by its four blue-domed towers.

This morning, your journey into Bukharan history continues with a visit to the Sitorai-Mokhi-Khosa Palace, the opulent summer residence of the city’s last emirs. As you wander through this fascinating estate with your tour leader, you will notice a captivating blend of traditional Bukharan design and Russian architectural styles. Admire the intricate ganch plasterwork that adorns the walls, the masterfully carved wood panels, and the richly painted reception rooms where lavish courtly gatherings and diplomatic events once took place.

In the afternoon, you will board a train destined for the legendary city of Samarkand, a name that has echoed down the centuries as a nexus of culture and trade on the Silk Road. When schedules permit, we will travel on the modern, high-speed Afrosiyob train, which glides across the landscape, completing the journey in just under 2 hours and delivering you to the heart of ancient wonders.

Upon arriving in Samarkand, you will settle into the elegant Malika Prime, a sanctuary of comfort ideally situated a mere stone's throw from the iconic Registan Square. Unwind in the hotel’s serene courtyard, take a refreshing dip in the outdoor pool, or indulge in the relaxing ambiance of the sauna before an evening of exploration.

Perhaps the most famous of all Silk Road cities, Samarkand welcomes you with a dazzling panorama of blue-tiled monuments that gleam under the bright sun. This 2,500-year-old city, shaped by historical figures like Alexander the Great and Genghis Khan, became the magnificent capital of Tamerlane's empire. Your exploration begins at the heart of the city, the majestic Registan Square. Here, you will find yourself surrounded on three sides by the grand madrassahs of Ulugh Beg, Sher-Dor, and Tilya-Kori, each a masterpiece of Islamic architecture.

The day is dedicated to uncovering the legacy of Tamerlane and his descendants. You will visit the Gur-Emir Mausoleum, the final resting place of Tamerlane, his sons, and his celebrated grandson, Ulugh Beg. From there, you will proceed to the Ulugh Beg Observatory, built in 1420 by the ruler-astronomer himself, a testament to the region's scientific advancements.

Your journey continues to the immense Bibi Khanum Mosque, a structure born from Tamerlane's ambition, and the Shakhi-Zinda necropolis, an avenue of mausoleums from the 14th and 15th centuries, each uniquely adorned. Finally, immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of the Siab Bazaar, where stalls overflow with fresh and dried fruits, nuts, and local delicacies. The exact order of your visits may be adjusted to ensure the best experience.

After an early morning departure, we drive to the Tajik border, where a seamless crossing brings you into the heart of Tajikistan. Here, you will be greeted by our local guide before a short 20-minute transfer to the ancient town of Penjikent.

Your exploration begins at the UNESCO World Heritage site of Sarazm, a remarkable archaeological treasure that offers a window into a settlement dating back an astonishing 5,500 years. Next, you will discover Penjikent itself, beginning with a visit to the Museum of Rudaki. This museum is dedicated to the life and works of the celebrated poet Rudaki, often hailed as the father of Persian poetry, who was born in this very town. The journey through time continues with a tour of the ruins of ancient Penjikent, a once-thriving Sogdian town founded in the 5th century and mysteriously abandoned by its inhabitants in the 8th century. As you wander through the excavated ruins, you will explore the remains of old houses, a formidable citadel that once housed Zoroastrian fire temples, and the remnants of a bustling bazaar, each site whispering stories of a bygone era.

Your accommodation for the evening will be at the Panjakent Plaza Hotel, a haven of modern comfort nestled in the heart of the city. After a day of exploration, you can unwind in the serene ambiance of the hotel’s garden, relax in the lounge or enjoy a refreshing dip in the indoor swimming pool.

Prepare for an enchanting journey into the heart of the Fann Mountains as we travel to the magnificent Seven Lakes. Our route takes us along a 50-mile (80km) drive into the Shing Valley, navigating a path that is at times narrow and rugged, adding a touch of adventure to the excursion. Known locally as Haf Kul, these alpine lakes are a natural marvel, their waters shimmering with extraordinary colours due to a high concentration of minerals.

Your day will be spent amidst this breathtaking mountain scenery. We will embark on a leisurely walk to the shores of Hazorchashma Lake, the seventh and highest of the lakes, allowing you to fully absorb the tranquility of the landscape. For lunch, we will pause in the quaint village of Nofin for a delightful picnic, offering a moment of peaceful reflection before we make our return journey to Penjikent in the late afternoon.

Today, we leave the majestic Fann Mountains behind and journey into the industrial and agricultural heartland of Tajikistan, heading towards the city of Khujand, a drive of approximately 4 hours. Along the way, we will stop at the ancient town of Istaravshan, a city with a rich history founded by the Persian king Cyrus the Great in the sixth century BC. Here, you'll have the opportunity to immerse yourself in local life with a visit to its vibrant, bustling bazaar.

Upon arrival in Khujand, you will discover a city that, while modern and industrial on the surface, holds a deep and complex history. Believed to be one of the oldest cities in Central Asia, Khujand has witnessed the march of empires, having been conquered by Alexander the Great, Arab invaders, and Genghis Khan. It also served as a vital hub along the legendary Silk Road. We will spend the afternoon uncovering traces of these glory days with a tour of the city's key sites. Our exploration includes the Museum of Archaeology and Fortification, the beautifully ornate Sheikh Maslikhiddin Mosque, and the energetic Payshanba Bazaar, one of the largest in Central Asia. If time permits, we will also visit the remarkable Arbob Palace, a former collective farm headquarters built as a grand replica of St. Petersburg's Peterhof Palace.

Retire for the evening to the Khujand Deluxe Hotel, an elegant oasis of comfort in the heart of the city. After a day of exploration, unwind with a visit to the hotel's wellness complex, complete with a swimming pool and sauna before savouring local delights at its charming restaurant.

We cross back into Uzbekistan at the Andurkhan border, where we will bid farewell to our dedicated Tajik crew and reconnect with our familiar Uzbek guides.

Our journey continues towards the Fergana Valley, a drive of approximately 5 hours that we will break up with several fascinating stops. Our first destination is the city of Kokand, once the formidable capital of the 19th-century Kokand Khanate, which controlled vast territories across Central Asia. Here, we will step into the opulent Khudoyar-Khan Palace, an architectural marvel from 1871 that now houses a local history museum. Its ornate façade and richly decorated halls offer a glimpse into the wealth and power of the former rulers. We will also visit the serene Norbuta-Biy Madrassah and the Modarikhon Mausoleum, a sacred complex dedicated to the mothers of the khans.

From Kokand, we proceed to the village of Rishtan, a community renowned for its centuries-old pottery dynasties. Here, master artisans continue to craft exquisite blue-glazed ceramics using techniques passed down through generations. We will visit a local workshop to witness these masters at work, observing the intricate process from shaping the clay to painting the detailed patterns, before having the chance to acquire a piece of this celebrated earthenware for yourself.

Our final stop of the day is in Margilan, a city historically synonymous with silk production. We will tour a local silk factory to uncover the secrets of this luxurious material, which lent its name to the world's most legendary trade route. You'll witness the entire fascinating production cycle, from the unwinding of silkworm cocoons to the weaving of the final, shimmering fabric.

As evening approaches, we will arrive in the tranquil, tree-lined town of Fergana, our resting place for the night. Retreat to the Hotel Asia Fergana, a sanctuary of comfort where elegant design meets modern convenience in the heart of the city. Unwind from your day's journey with a refreshing dip in the outdoor swimming pool, or indulge in a soothing session at the sauna before an evening of restful relaxation.

This morning, you will journey to the Kyrgyz border, where you will bid farewell to your Uzbek leader and complete the necessary border formalities at the Dustlik crossing. On the other side, a warm welcome awaits from your Kyrgyz leader, who will guide you into the nearby city of Osh, the second-largest in Kyrgyzstan and a pivotal hub on the ancient Silk Road.

Your exploration begins with a visit to the sacred Sulayman-Too, a mountain revered as a holy Muslim site and believed to be the final resting place of the prophet Sulayman (Solomon). As you ascend the paved path to its summit, the effort of the climb, especially in the day's warmth, is rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views over the sprawling city and the expansive Fergana Valley below. At the top, you will also discover a small, insightful museum and a beautifully preserved 15th-century mosque, each offering a deeper connection to the region's rich history.

Later, as we make our way towards Jalal-Abad, we will pause our journey in the ancient town of Uzgen. With a history stretching back over two millennia, Uzgen was once a significant hub on the trade routes connecting the Fergana Valley with the northern territories of Central Asia. Here, you will take an excursion to explore a striking old minaret and a complex of historic mausoleums, testaments to its importance during the Karakhanid dynasty. To complete our visit, we will immerse ourselves in the lively atmosphere of the local rice bazaar, a bustling marketplace that continues the town's long legacy as a centre of trade.

Leaving the city of Jalal-Abad behind, a scenic 90-minute drive transports us into the mountains to the Arslanbob Nature Reserve. Here, nestled at an altitude of around 1,600 metres, lies the village of Arslanbob, an enchanting place surrounded by what is believed to be the largest ancient walnut forest in the world. The sheer scale of these primordial woodlands creates a truly magical atmosphere, inviting exploration and quiet contemplation.

Upon arrival, we will embark on a leisurely walk through the stunning countryside, a journey of approximately 4 hours that allows ample time to absorb the serene beauty of the landscape. We will pause for a delightful picnic lunch amidst this natural splendour. This walk is taken at a relaxed pace, but comfortable walking shoes or boots are recommended. Should you prefer a more restful afternoon, you are welcome to opt out and simply enjoy the tranquil surroundings at your own pace.

Later in the day, we will make the return journey to Jalal-Abad, where the comforts of our guesthouse await.

Leaving the verdant gorges behind, we begin our ascent into the heart of Kyrgyzstan's celestial mountains, making the long journey towards the sublime upland pastures surrounding Son Kul Lake. This vast, alpine body of water, nestled at an altitude of 3,016 metres, is a jewel of the Kyrgyz landscape. The drive itself is an adventure, taking around nine hours and traversing stretches of rugged, unpaved terrain that speak to the region's remote beauty.

Son Kul is one of the country's most celebrated vistas, a place where age-old traditions endure. Here, herding families continue their seasonal migration to the jailoo (high summer pastures), bringing their sheep, cattle, and horses to graze on the lush meadows that carpet the lakeshore. While the presence of yurt camps has grown, many are still operated by these same families, offering an authentic window into a nomadic way of life that has remained unchanged for centuries.

Tonight, we will experience this timeless lifestyle firsthand as we settle into our yurt camp. These traditional dwellings have been thoughtfully updated for comfort, providing a modernised glimpse into nomadic living. You'll find facilities now include Western-style toilets and even a dedicated ‘shower yurt’ equipped with proper showers and basins. Hot water is typically available in the morning and evening when the generator is running, though its flow can sometimes be intermittent, a gentle reminder of our beautiful and remote setting.

Today is yours to immerse yourself in the serene beauty of Son Kul. You may choose to spend the day at your leisure, simply soaking in the magnificent alpine scenery that surrounds you. For those seeking a bit of exploration, there is an optional walk to a nearby set of hills, a journey of approximately two to two-and-a-half hours. While the slopes are quite steep, and therefore may not be suitable for everyone, your efforts will be rewarded at the summit, where ancient petroglyphs await your discovery. These rock carvings offer a fascinating glimpse into the history of the people who have long inhabited this breathtaking landscape.

Our journey today begins with a drive to Kochkor, a village celebrated as Kyrgyzstan’s heartland for traditional felt handicrafts. Here, we will visit a local workshop where you can observe artisans at work and even participate in the age-old process of crafting 'shyrdaks,' the vibrant national felt carpets.

From Kochkor, our path winds through the majestic central Tien Shan mountains. Prepare for a breathtaking drive through picturesque canyons and deep gorges as we trace the southern shores of Issyk-Kul. As the second-largest saline lake in the world, its vast, deep-blue waters stretch an impressive 180km in length and plunge to depths of nearly 700m. Its name, meaning "Hot Lake," comes from the fact that its salty waters never freeze, even during the harsh Central Asian winter. The landscape that frames the lake is a stunning tapestry of lush forests and alpine meadows, all set against a dramatic backdrop of snow-capped peaks and immense glaciers.

Later, we will stop at the village of Bokonbaev for a captivating demonstration of traditional eagle hunting. This ancient form of falconry, found throughout Central Asia, plays a vital role in the nomadic culture, where golden eagles are trained as skilled hunting partners. It is a powerful tradition that offers a unique insight into the enduring bond between humans and nature in this remote land.

As the sun sets, we will arrive at the Nomad Camp, where you can unwind in a traditional yurt nestled by the serene shores of Issyk-Kul. Indulge in an authentic nomadic experience, complete with a traditional banya and locally sourced cuisine, all while surrounded by the tranquil beauty of the Kyrgyz landscape.

This morning, we continue our journey to the historic town of Karakol. Our first destination is the Barskoon Gorge, a place of remarkable natural beauty renowned for its high waterfalls and dense spruce forests. This very gorge was once visited by Yuri Gagarin, the first man in space, who came to recuperate after his historic flight. Here, we will embark on a scenic hike to a magnificent waterfall known as the Bowl of Manas, named after the epic hero of Kyrgyzstan.

Our next stop is the Djety-Oguz Gorge, a valley famous for its striking red sandstone rock formations. You will marvel at the iconic "Seven Bulls" rocks, a row of weathered cliffs resembling a line of formidable bulls, and the poignant "Broken Heart" rock, a solitary formation steeped in local legend. From the natural splendor of Djety-Oguz, we complete the final leg of our drive to Karakol, having spent about two and a half hours on the road today.

Arriving in Karakol feels like stepping back a century into a town reminiscent of Tsarist Russia. We will embark on a fascinating sightseeing tour, admiring the charming old Russian-style houses that line the streets. Our exploration will include a visit to the exquisite Holy Trinity Orthodox Cathedral, a wooden masterpiece dating to 1886, and the remarkable Dungan Mosque, ingeniously constructed in 1899 without a single nail. We will also have time to immerse ourselves in the vibrant atmosphere of the Karakol bazaar.

To conclude our day, we are invited to a local Uygur or Dungan family home for an authentic, home-cooked meal, offering a unique and personal taste of the region's rich culture.

Nestled in the heart of Karakol, the Amir Hotel welcomes you to a haven of comfort where you can unwind in the soothing warmth of the sauna or enjoy a refreshing dip in the indoor pool. Experience an evening of refined relaxation in its sophisticated restaurant and bar, a perfect setting to reflect on the day's adventures.

This morning, we cross the Kyrgyz-Kazakh border. After completing the necessary border procedures, a process which may take between one and two hours, we will journey through the picturesque Karkara valley. This scenic route is known for its vibrant mountain flowers, which attract beekeepers from far and wide, creating a truly charming landscape.

Our journey continues towards the magnificent Charyn River. Here, millennia of erosion have carved a dramatic canyon into the earth, creating an impressive and unforgettable landscape often compared to the Grand Canyon. We will take some time to admire the spectacle of Charyn and the nearby Moon Canyons from several viewpoints, offering different perspectives of this natural wonder. After a short walk to stretch our legs and ample opportunity for photographs, we proceed to the awe-inspiring Black Canyon, known for its dark, sheer rock faces that contrast stunningly with the river below.

We will pause for a picnic lunch amidst the dramatic scenery of the canyon (you will have the opportunity to purchase provisions earlier in the day). Following our visit, we will continue our drive towards Almaty, with an expected arrival time of around 5 pm. Today involves approximately 6 hours of driving.

Settle into the warm embrace of the Uyut Hotel, a sanctuary of comfort nestled in the heart of Almaty. Unwind after your day of exploration in the serene wellness complex, where a Finnish sauna, Turkish hammam, and refreshing swimming pool before savouring local dishes at its charming restaurant.

With the majestic Tien Shan mountains forming a dramatic backdrop, we have a full day to immerse ourselves in the beautiful city of Almaty. The former Kazakh capital exudes a distinctly European charm, with its wide, leafy boulevards and a vibrant café culture inviting you to linger.

After breakfast, we will embark on a comprehensive city tour to uncover Almaty's most significant landmarks. Our exploration begins at Panfilov Park, a sprawling urban oasis dedicated to the 28 soldiers of an Almaty infantry unit who died fighting in World War II. Here, we'll find the Great Patriotic War monument and an eternal flame honouring their memory. Nestled within the park is the magnificent Zenkov Cathedral, also known as the Ascension Cathedral. This architectural marvel, constructed in 1907, is one of the tallest wooden buildings in the world and was impressively built entirely without the use of nails. To complete our cultural tour, we will visit the Museum of National Instruments, which showcases a rich collection of traditional Kazakh musical instruments, offering a unique insight into the nation's artistic heritage.

After tracing ancient Silk Road cities and exploring the Five Stans, our shared adventure through Central Asia must now draw to a close. Savour one last breakfast, a perfect time to reflect on your incredible journey before your transfer to Almaty Airport.

Should you wish to prolong your stay in Almaty, please contact us.

NOTE: This itinerary is provided as an example only – prevailing conditions and local arrangements may cause variation.