The Five Stans of the Silk Road Group Tour
Tour Details
24 days
Spring, summer, autumn
Season
2-16 pax
$5,200 / per person
$700 Single supplement
Description
The Five Stans of the Silk Road Group Tour is a vibrant, diverse, and in-depth journey to the heart of Asia, where ancient cultures shaped by mountains, steppes, and deserts come together. Over 24 days, you will travel through five countries, visit dozens of cities and natural sites, collect hundreds of unforgettable impressions, and take thousands of photos, making this trip one of the best ways to experience the central part of the Silk Road.
The first part of the tour lasts five days and is dedicated to Kyrgyzstan, where you will visit the capital city of Bishkek, the Burana Tower, the landmarks of Karakol, and the most famous natural sights, including Son Kul, Jeti Oguz, Skazka Canyon, and more. The second part is Kazakhstan, where over three days you will see the stunning Kolsai Lakes, the powerful Charyn Canyon, and enjoy a walk through Almaty, the country’s former capital. Next comes four days in mountainous Tajikistan, exploring its lakes, high passes, and green cities located in rare valleys. The largest portion of the tour takes place in Uzbekistan: you will begin in the capital, Tashkent, and then travel west along the historic caravan routes to Samarkand, Bukhara, and Khiva, widely regarded as the region’s finest historic cities, with the greatest concentration of ancient mosques, mausoleums, and madrasas. The final stage of this remarkable journey is Turkmenistan, where you will visit the ancient ruins of Kunya-Urgench, cross the harsh Karakum Desert, stand at the edge of the blazing Darvaza crater, and walk through the striking white-marble city of Ashgabat.
If you are looking for unforgettable adventures and enjoy seeing as much as possible in one trip, the Five Stans of the Silk Road Group Tour is one of the best choices this year. You will also travel alongside like-minded explorers who share a passion for large-scale journeys and may become new friends, so take a look at the detailed tour program and choose the date for your adventure.
- Travel Style: Classic
- Physical Rating: Average
- Service Level: Standard
- Tour type: Small Group (from 2 to 16 people)
- Age requirement: 16+
Tour Highlights
- Kyrgyzstan’s alpine nature: Bishkek, Burana Tower, Song-Kul Lake, Skazka Canyon, Karakol.
- Kazakhstan’s landscapes: Kolsai & Kaindy Lakes, Charyn Canyon, Almaty.
- Tajikistan’s valleys: Dushanbe, Iskanderkul Lake, ancient Istaravshan, historic Khujand.
- Uzbekistan’s Silk Road cities: Tashkent, Samarkand, Bukhara, Khiva.
- Turkmenistan’s desert & heritage: Kunya-Urgench, Darvaza gas crater, white-marble Ashgabat.
Program
Welcome to Kyrgyzstan - arrive in Bishkek (any time during the day), pick-up and transfer to hotel. Check into the hotel at noon. After your flight, take some time to rest and recharge for your 24-days The Five Stans of the Silk Road Group Tour. Overnight in Bishkek.
Meals: none.
After breakfast, check out from the hotel and begin a guided city tour of Bishkek. Discover the capital’s key highlights as your private guide shares insights into local history and everyday life. Visit Oak Park, Ala-Too Square, the iconic Manas Statue, the National Museum of Fine Arts, the Philharmonic Hall, and the Victory Monument.
In the afternoon, drive to Chon-Kemin Valley with an en-route visit to Burana Tower (150 km). This 13th century minaret is all that remains of the ancient Silk Road city of Balasagun, now recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Explore the open-air museum of ancient balbals – mysterious stone figures once used as memorial markers. Continue to Chon-Kemin, a beautiful mountain valley. Overnight at a local guesthouse.
Meals: breakfast, dinner.
Breakfast at the guesthouse, followed by free time to enjoy the stunning nature of Chon-Kemin. Take a light hike through the nearby gorges, surrounded by fresh mountain air and beautiful landscapes. Afterwards, drive to Song-Kul Lake via the scenic Kalmak-Ashuu Pass. As you cross the mountains, enjoy panoramic views of untouched highlands. Upon arrival at Song-Kul, check in to a traditional Kyrgyz yurt, set at an altitude of around 3,000 meters. Here you will experience the authentic nomadic lifestyle and have the chance to explore the wide-open steppe. Dinner at the camp followed by a relaxing evening around the campfire. Overnight in a yurt camp.
Meals: breakfast, dinner.
Note: Song Kul is not available around the year because the weather-related conditions limit access. If the pass is closed, the group will instead stay overnight at a yurt stay near Issyk-Kul Lake with an additional visit to the waterfall.
Enjoy a peaceful morning at Song-Kul Lake, taking in the serene mountain landscapes before departing for Kochkor village. Upon arrival, have lunch with a local family and learn more about traditional Kyrgyz hospitality. Visit a felt-making workshop, where artisans create beautiful handicrafts using ancient techniques.
Continue your journey to Skazka Canyon (Fairytale Canyon) - natural wonder known for its colorful, whimsical rock formations. Enroute stop for Eagle hunting show in Bokonbaevo. Continue to Skazka, take a leisurely walk and capture stunning photos of this unique landscape. After the visit, short drive to yurt camp on the southern shore of Issyk-Kul Lake, surrounded by mountain views and fresh lake breezes. Overnight in a yurt camp.
Meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner.
After breakfast, some free time on Issyk Kul Lake shore. Later drive to Jety-Oguz Gorge, famous for its striking Seven Bulls red rock formations. Enjoy panoramic views and take a short hike to the scenic viewpoint. You will also have the chance to see the dramatic Broken Heart rock, another symbol of the area.
Continue your journey to Karakol and enjoy a guided city tour upon arrival. Visit the Russian Orthodox Holy Trinity Cathedral, a beautifully crafted wooden church built in 1895, still active today. Then explore the Dungan Mosque, constructed in 1910 without a single nail – its colorful design reflects strong Buddhist architectural influences. Overnight at a hotel in Karakol.
Meals: breakfast.
After breakfast, drive to the Kazakhstan border and complete border formalities before continuing to Saty Village, located within the stunning Kolsai Lake National Park. Upon arrival, switch to 4x4 vehicles for an exciting ride to Kaindy Lake. Enjoy a short trek to this remarkable natural landmark – famous for its sunken forest, where tree trunks rise mysteriously above the turquoise water. Take time to explore and absorb the unique beauty of the area, surrounded by the dramatic Tien Shan Mountains. Return to the village for dinner and an overnight stay in a local guesthouse, where you can experience warm Kazakh hospitality and traditional cuisine. This is just one of many exciting experiences in your Five Stans of the Silk Road Group Tour. Overnight in a guesthouse.
Meals: breakfast, dinner.
Breakfast and transfer to Almaty, the former capital of Kazakhstan, with a scenic stop at Charyn Canyon National Park. Admire the canyon’s striking shades of red, orange, and brown – a breathtaking landscape often compared to the Grand Canyon. Take time to enjoy the views, capture photos, and soak in the dramatic scenery. Continue your journey to Almaty, where you will check in to your hotel for the night. Overnight in Almaty.
Meals: breakfast.
Breakfast at hotel on the eighth day of your Five Stans of the Silk Road Group Tour. Explore the vibrant city of Almaty on a guided city tour. Visit Independence Square, the beautiful Zenkov Cathedral, Panfilov Park, and the striking WWII Memorial. Stop by the bustling Green Bazaar, where you can browse local spices, fresh produce, meats, and traditional souvenirs. Continue with a short drive to Kok-Tobe Hill, offering panoramic views of Almaty and the surrounding mountains.
In the late afternoon, transfer to Almaty airport for your flight to Dushanbe, the capital of Tajikistan. Upon arrival, meet your driver and transfer to your hotel. Free time. Overnight in Dushanbe.
Meals: breakfast.
After breakfast, enjoy a guided tour of Dushanbe, the capital of Tajikistan, exploring its key landmarks and cultural highlights. Visit the historic Hissar Fortress (15th century), the charming Khistin Caravanserai (19th century), and the elegant Haji Yaqub Mosque (19th century). See the iconic Statue of Ismoil Somoni and the towering State Flagpole. After the tour, enjoy free time to explore the city at your own pace, discover local cafés, markets, or cultural spots, and soak in the atmosphere of Tajikistan’s vibrant capital. Overnight in Dushanbe.
Meals: breakfast.
Enjoy a scenic morning drive through picturesque valleys and across the Anzob Pass, one of the best vantage points for panoramic views of the magnificent Fann Mountains. Arrive at the legendary Iskanderkul Lake, named after Alexander the Great. Here you’ll have free time to stroll along the peaceful shoreline, relax by the crystal-clear water, take photos, or simply enjoy the fresh mountain air. A short hike will bring you to a 36-meter waterfall, often called “Fann Niagara” for its dramatic beauty. Overnight at a guesthouse near Iskanderkul Lake.
Meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner.
Depart from Iskanderkul Lake in the morning and drive to Khujand with a stop in Istaravshan, one of the oldest cities in Central Asia. Visit lively Istaravshan Bazaar, the Hazrat Shah Architectural Complex (19th century), and Mug Teppe, an ancient fortress site. You will also see the largest bust of Lenin in Central Asia – an interesting reminder of the Soviet era. Continue the journey to Khujand, where you’ll check in to your hotel. Overnight in Khujand.
Meals: breakfast.
After breakfast start Khujand city tour which over 2000 years of history and ancient Silk Road city. Take a city tour of greatest sites: Khujand Fortress, Historical Museum of Sughd, Mausoleum of Sheikh Muslihiddin Khujandi (12th century), Payshanba Bazaar, Somoni Park. Transfer to Tajikistan - Uzbekistan border crossing known as “Oybek”. Cross border and drive to the capital city of Tashkent, where modern skyscrapers mix with Soviet-era architecture and mosaic mausoleums. Overnight in Tashkent.
Meals: breakfast.
Breakfast and enjoy a guided city tour of Tashkent, the capital of Uzbekistan. Begin with a visit to the Museum of Applied Arts, showcasing exquisite national handicrafts inside a beautifully decorated historic villa. Take a ride on the Tashkent Metro, famous for its artistically designed stations, each featuring unique murals and tilework. Continue with a walk-through Amir Timur Square and Independence Square, important landmarks of modern Uzbekistan. Explore the Old City, including the Hast-Imam Complex (15th century). Walking through the Islamic Civilization Center and Zarqaynar street. Conclude your tour at Chorsu Bazaar, one of Central Asia’s oldest markets, where you can shop for fresh produce, traditional sweets, and local souvenirs. Overnight at a hotel in Tashkent.
Meals: breakfast.
In the morning the driver will transfer you to the railway station for a train journey to the stunning city of Samarkand (310km). Pick-up from train station and you will have Samarkand city tour, visit Gur Emir, and the impressive Registan Square, with its three Madrasahs dating back to the 15th to 17th centuries. Take in the beauty of Bibi Khanum Mosque and stroll through the multi-level complex of Siab Bazaar, where you can find souvenirs and sample local sweets, fruits, and the famous Samarkand bread. Explore the impressive Shakhi-Zinda, a 15th-century burial complex, and walk the imposing pathway to see its blue-domed tombs. Transfer to hotel. Overnight in Samarkand.
Meals: breakfast.
Continue exploring the amazing sights of Silk Road city – Samarkand: Visit to the excavation site and museum of the ancient city Afrasiab. Tour of the mausoleum of Khodja Daniyar, believed to be the tomb of the prophet Daniel. Drive to Konigil Village to observe the traditional way of making Samarkand paper from mulberry leaves. Excursion to the Oriental Silk Carpet Factory to see firsthand how top-quality carpets are created. End the day with a visit to the Ulugbek Observatory, where you can view the remains of 15th-century sextant and tour the Ulugbek Museum. Overnight in Samarkand.
Meals: breakfast.
Group tour of Central Asia continues with a drive from Samarkand to Nurata mountain village, a picturesque area. Arrive in a mountain village at noon and your host welcomes you and shows the homestay facilities. After lunch, wander around the village to see the old mosque, local school, village shop and local houses (built in the traditional way using local rocks). It is fantastic to see locals doing their livelihood activities. You will meet friendly people willing to talk to you. Ideal place where you can relax, drink tea or read your favorite book. Participate in cooking tasty dinner from natural products. Overnight in a guesthouse.
Meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner.
Wake up early in the morning and enjoy the sunrise. Have breakfast. Transfer to Bukhara via Aydarkul Lake and Gijduvan pottery. Stop at Aydarkul Lake for an opportunity to swim. Drive to Chashma Complex to visit a local mosque known for its holy spring waters and to explore the ruins of a fortress built by Alexander the Great. Continue driving and visit Rabat-i-Malik Caravanserai ruins and Sardoba, an ancient reservoir. Next stop is Gijduvan, a small town whose traditional crafts and ceramics have been sought after in Central Asia for centuries due to their quality and colorful, decorative style. Visit the ceramic museum and workshop before continuing to Bukhara. Arrive in Bukhara for drop-off at your hotel. Free time to relax in the pleasant atmosphere of this Silk Road city. Overnight in Bukhara.
Meals: breakfast.
Begin the morning with a city walking tour led by your local guide. Your private tour will include the Lyabi-Hauz Ensemble, Magoki-Attori Mosque and the Trade Domes (15-16th centuries) that serve today as a tourist bazaar. Continue your excursion to Poi Kalyan Ensemble, including the Kalyan Minaret, Kalyan Mosque and Miri-Arab Madrasah. Visit Ulugbek and Abdulazizkhan Madrasahs. Wander the artisan shops and narrow twisting streets and alleyways. Discover the Ark Fortress and museum in Bukhara. Next site is Bolo-Khauz Mosque with a pond. Last site is the mausoleum of Ismail Samani. Overnight in Bukhara.
Meals: breakfast.
In the morning transfer to railway station and take train to Khiva (460km, 6h) through the Kyzylkum desert. Caravans on the Great Silk Road carrying porcelain and spices used the same route for hundreds of years. Arrival in Khiva, the "museum under the open sky". After check-in, free time to discover Khiva. Overnight in a hotel near Ichan-Kala fortress, the historical center of Khiva and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Meals: breakfast.
After breakfast, guided walking tour of Itchan-Kala, the UNESCO-listed inner fortress of Khiva. Step back in time as you explore well-preserved monuments and cobbled alleyways. Highlights include: Kunya-Ark, the former khan’s residence and ancient citadel. Kalta Minor Minaret, known for its striking turquoise tiles. Muhammad Amin-Khan Madrasah and Muhammad Rahimkhan Madrasah, impressive examples of medieval Islamic architecture. Juma Mosque, famous for its 212 carved wooden columns. Tash-Hauli Palace, with ornate courtyards and fortified walls. Pahlavan Mahmud Mausoleum, an important spiritual complex. Islam Khodja Minaret and Madrasah, a symbol of Khiva’s skyline. Stroll through the maze-like streets and visit local workshops. End the day with a beautiful sunset over the ancient walls, as Khiva turns into an open-air museum. Overnight in Khiva.
Meals: breakfast.
After your morning breakfast, you'll travel with your driver to the Turkmenistan border point (1h). Cross the border on foot. Once you pass border control, your Turkmenistan guide will meet you, and drive 100 km to Kunya-Urgench, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visit the ancient capital of the Khorezmian Empire - Tyurabek-Khanym and Sayit Ahmed Mausoleums, Kutlug Timur Minaret, Sultan Tekesh Mausoleum of Khorezmshakh, and Kyrk Molla Hill. You'll enjoy a picnic lunch while exploring the area.
In the afternoon drive to the Darvaza Gas Crater, located in the middle of the Karakum Desert (280 km, 4-5h, by 4WD, road not in good condition). You'll set up camp and enjoy the magnificent ring of fire by night. A delicious fire-cooked meal will be served for dinner near the burning gas crater, once-in-a-lifetime experience. Darvaza gas crater also known as the "Gates of Hell. Spend the night camping under the stars at a yurt camp.
Meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner.
Start the day with a breathtaking sunrise over the desert, followed by a hearty camp-style breakfast. Before departing, visit a nearby mud crater to see another fascinating natural feature of Turkmenistan’s landscape. Then drive to Ashgabat (280km, 4h), with opportunities to stop for photos of the rolling sand dunes and camel caravans along the way. Upon arrival in the city, visit a horse stable to learn about the famous Akhal-Teke horses, and then explore Gulistan Bazaar (also known as the Russian Bazaar), a lively local market filled with fresh produce, spices, and souvenirs. Enjoy free time. Overnight in Ashgabat.
Meals: breakfast.
After breakfast, explore the highlights of Ashgabat, a city recognized by the Guinness World Records for its impressive number of white marble buildings. Begin with a visit to Old Nissa, a UNESCO World Heritage archaeological site once home to the ancient Parthian Empire. Continue to the Spiritual Mosque, one of the largest and most beautiful mosques in Central Asia. Your tour also includes visits to: The National Museum of History, showcasing Turkmenistan’s rich cultural heritage. The Monument of Neutrality, a symbol of the nation’s political identity. Presidential Square, with its striking government architecture. Ertugrul Gazi Mosque, inspired by Ottoman design. Independence Park, a modern landmark celebrating Turkmenistan’s sovereignty. Overnight in Ashgabat.
Meals: breakfast.
Depart at any time. Departure transfer is included. End of The Five Stans of the Silk Road Group Tour.
Meals: breakfast.
- Accommodation based on double/twin room (hotel 16 nights, yurt 3 nights, guesthouse 4 nights);
- Felt-making show in Kochkor;
- Eagle hunting show in Bokonbaevo;
- Entrance tickets and ecological fees;
- Transfers Airport and Train station pick-ups and drop-offs;
- Transfers from/to cities and borders;
- Economy class tickets for flight Almaty to Dushanbe;
- Economy class tickets for trains Tashkent to Samarkand;
- Compartment class ticket for train Bukhara to Khiva;
- Turkmenistan Letter of Invitation and State Registration;
- Meals: 23 breakfasts, 4 lunches, 7 dinners;
- City tour in Bishkek, Karakol, Almaty, Dushanbe, Khujand, Tashkent, Samarkand, Bukhara, Khiva, Kunya Urgench, Ashgabat;
- English-speaking escort guide in Kyrgyzstan, Kazakhstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan;
- English speaking escort guide for a group of 10 persons and more in Uzbekistan.
- Personal expenses and tips;
- Meals not indicated in the program;
- Hotel charges for additional services;
- Personal travel insurance;
- International flight tickets before and after the tour;
- All visas, e-visas and visa support letters to Central Asia countries;
- All other charges and services not mentioned under “Inclusions”.
Accommodation:
| Bishkek - 1 night | My hotel, Bon, Grand or similar |
| Chon Kemin - 1 night | Guesthouse |
| Song Kul - 1 night | Yurt |
| Kadzhi Say - 1 night | Yurt |
| Karakol - 1 night | Green Yard, Matsunoki, Caravan |
| Saty Village - 1 night | Guesthouse |
| Almaty - 1 night | Kazzhol, Uyut, Otrar |
| Dushanbe - 2 nights | Atlas, Shumon, Vatan |
| Iskandarkul - 1 night | Guesthouse |
| Khujand - 1 night | Khujand Delux, Grand Khujand, Sugdiyon |
| Tashkent - 2 nights | Inspira-S, ATECA, Harris |
| Samarkand - 2 nights | Shahjahon Palace, Welfort, Karvon |
| Nurata village - 1 night | Guesthouse |
| Bukhara - 2 nights | Marhaba, Makon Art, As-Salom |
| Khiva - 2 nights | ANNEX, Malika Kheivak, Muso Tora |
| Darvaza - 1 night | Yurt |
| Ashgabat - 2 nights | Sport, Ak Altyn |
Dates & Prices
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It was a very nice day, and our guide was great! Thank you very much.
Tour: Chimgan and Charvak Day Tour →We did indeed arrive home safely from this wonderful adventure. It was a truly beautiful trip! Everything was so special: the culture and nature. You realize how little you know about that rich history. The trip went smoothly. The arrangements were kept. In Uzbekistan and Kazakhstan, the tour operator (the day before) promptly sent me an app telling me what time we would be picked up or dropped off. Everything was accurate. Credit card payments aren't accepted on the train ride through Kazakhstan.
Tour: Uzbekistan-Kazakhstan 8-Day Tour →Guide: Khiva - Shoxrux, Bukhara - Dilnoza, Samarkand - Otabek, Tashkent- Dilya.
Accommodation: Khiva - Malika Kheivak, Bukhara – Minzifa, Samarkand - Shohjahon Palace, Tashkent – ATECA.
28-5-2025 (WED) Day 1: Urgench – Khiva
29-5-2025 (THU) Day 2: Khiva
30-5-2025 (FRI) Day 3: Khiva – Bukhara
31-5-2025 (SAT) Day 4: Bukhara
01-6-2025 (SUN) Day 5: Bukhara - Samarkand
02-6-2025 (MON) Day 6: Samarkand
03-6-2025 (TUE) Day 7: Samarkand
04-6-2025 (WED) Day 8: Samarkand – Tashkent
05-06-2025 (THU) Day 9: Tashkent
06-06-2025 (FRI) Day 10: Tashkent