The Silk Road, an ancient network of trade routes that connected the East and West, has captured the imagination of travellers for centuries. Along this historic path lie five countries known as the “Five Stans”: Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Turkmenistan, Kyrgyzstan, and Tajikistan. Each of these nations holds its own unique blend of cultures, landscapes, and historical treasures, making a journey through the Five Stans an unforgettable adventure. Let’s delve into the wonders that await those who embark on this remarkable expedition.
16 August to 10 September 2025
Price from $6939 pp Twin Share and from $8448 Solo Occupancy * accommodation in Yurts/Homestays and camp will be shared (total of 6 nights).
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.
Comfortable tourist-class accommodations with character; mix of public and private transport.
Highlights
- Yurt Building Demonstration, Barskoon
- Overnight in a Yurt, Song Köl
- Tamga Village Stay, Tamga
- Community Homestay, Kuli Iskandarkul
- Fortress of Alexander the Great visit (Nurata)
- Saty village stay
- Felt-making workshop visit
- Daravaz gas crater ("Door to Hell") visit
Itinerary
Arrive at any time.
Welcome to Kyrgyzstan’s artsy capital and cultural hub, situated at the base of the Tian Shan mountain range. There are no planned activities until the evening welcome meeting, so get out there and explore!
Your Welcome Moment: Welcome Meeting – Meet Your CEO and Group
Your opportunity to meet your CEO and fellow travellers, and learn more about your tour. Opt to join the group for a local meal afterwards. Don’t forget to see the notice in the lobby (or ask reception) for the official time and place to meet up with the group.
Welcome Dinner tonight
Grand Hotel Bishkek (or similar)
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.
Burana Tower Visit
Bishkek – Burana
Visit the historical site of Burana and climb the stairs to check out the view from the top. A large miniaret about 80km from Bishkek, along with some grave markers and remnants of a castle and mausoleums, are all that remains of the 9th century city of Balasagun.
Private Vehicle
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
City Tour
Check out some of the main highlights of this Sovietesque capital city. Learn about the history of the city and daily life.
Accommodation: Kemin Guesthouse
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.
Your Local Living Moment: Overnight in a Yurt
Enjoy overnighting in a traditional felt yurt. Get comfortable in this multi-share round tent and cozy up by the stove. Experience daily life of the nomads and sample some of their delicious cuisine.
Private Vehicle (Chong-Kemin)
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Optional Activity – Hiking in Song Kui (FREE)
Explore the scenic mountain views and pastures on foot, getting up close and personal with breathtaking nature.
Accommodation: Yurts Song Kui
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.
Tamga village was once famous for its Soviet-era military sanatorium, where Soviet cosmonauts relaxed and recovered after space flights. The complex still exists in its original, untouched 1930’s glory, with an atmosphere that would seem to bring you back in time.
Felt Making Workshop
Kochkor
Visit a felt-making workshop to learn more about this traditional Kyrgyz craft. Make your own miniature version of the precious carpet known as ala-kiyiz, and enjoy lunch in Kochkor village. Opt to purchase a carpet or two.
Private Vehicle (Song-Köl)
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle. Stop halfway in Kochkor village for a Kyrgyz felt-making workshop.
Your Local Living Moment: Tamga Village Stay
Spend the night at a guesthouse in Tamga Village situated along Issyk Kul Lake. Surrounded by mountains and often used as a base for trekking, this village offers a touching glimpse into local Kyrgyz life.
Accommodation: Anyutaika Guesthouse
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.
Private Vehicle (Tamga – Karakol)
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle. Stop first in Barskoon village before continuing on to Karakol.
Your G for Good Moment: Yurt Building Demonstration
Visit the Ak-Orgo workshop, a G Adventures-supported project working to preserve Kyrgyz traditions and create employment opportunities in Barskoon. Observe how traditional yurts are built and enjoy a local lunch with the community.
Przhevalsky Museum Visit
Karakol
Visit a fascinating museum dedicate to the Russian explorer Nikolai Przhevalsky. The museum offers insight into his life and travels and displays some of the flora and fauna species endemic to the area.
Karakol City Tour
Karakol
Jump on a mini-bus and see what Karakol has to offer. Stop by the Russian Orthodox Cathedral to admire the unique architecture. This beautiful wooden church was built in 1895, after the old structure was destroyed by an earthquake, and is still used for services on Sundays. Next, visit the colourful Dungan mosque originally built in 1910 that almost resembles a Buddhist temple. This is the only mosque in the area and definitely worth checking out.
Accommodation: Caravan Hotel 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 waterfall called “Girl’s Braids”. Return to Karakol and have a free afternoon to explore. In the evening enjoy dinner with local family
Jeti-Oguz Gorge Visit & Hike
Jety-Oguz
Visit the picturesque Jeti-Oguz Gorge. Its name is translated from Kyrgyz language and means “Seven bulls”. Symbolic of the 35 km long wall of seven huge red-brown cliffs resembling bulls standing together. Hike to the valley of wildflowers and waterfall called “Girl’s braids”.
Free Time
Karakol – Afternoon
Karakol is the 4th largest city in Kyrgyzstan, located on the scenic Lake Issyk-Kul.
Accommodation: Caravan Hotel Karakol
Cross the border into Kazakhstan on the journey to Saty Village, part of the Kolsay Lakes National Park. On arrival, jump in a Russian 4×4 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.
Saty Village Stay
Saty Village
Be immersed in Kazakh culture during a homestay near the Kolsay Lakes National Park. Eat a traditional dinner and marvel at the mountain range and forests surrounding the village.
Border Crossing (Kazakhstan – Kyrgyzstan)
Ready for a little more ink in your passport? Grab your bags and get ready to check another country off your bucket list.
Private Vehicle (Karakol – Saty Village)
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Optional Activity – Hiking in Kolsay Lakes National Park (FREE)
Explore the many lakes throughout the National Park. Unique views of the Tian Shan mountain range, Kolsay River, and the famous Kaindy Lake will not disappoint.
Accommodation: Saty Village Guesthouse
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.
Charyn Canyon Visit
Charyn Canyon National Park
Enjoy the views of the beautiful Charyn Canyon. Breathe the fresh air and snap a few photos of this stunning landscape.
City Tour
Almaty
Get to know Almaty on a city tour, visiting the most stunning sights. Stop by the colourful Zenkov Cathedral, constructed entirely of wood without the use of any nails, it survived an earthquake in 1911 and continues to stand today. Walk through Panfilov’s Park and the historical part of the city. Visit the new part of Almaty known as Independence Square, and stop by the WWII Memorial.
Private Vehicle (Saty Village – Charyn Canyon National Park)
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Private Vehicle (Charyn Canyon National Park – Almaty)
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Optional Activity – Zelyony Bazaar Almaty (FREE)
Also known as the “Green Bazaar”, this was once a key trading centre in the city. Explore this traditional outdoor Kazakh market and roam around the varied stalls. Find anything from local spices and meats to souvenirs or furniture. Stay for a meal or opt to sip on tea while watching the hustle and bustle of the market unfold.
Accommodation: Hotel KAZZHOL Almaty
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.
Plane
Almaty – Dushanbe | 1h30m
Look! Up in the sky! It’s a bird! It’s a plane! It’s… yup, it is a plane, actually.
City Tour
Dushanbe
Visit the highlights of the capital city on a guided tour, seeing the Central Mosque and square, Ismail-i-Somoni Monument, the State Flag Pole, and Tajikistan Antiquities Museum.
Accommodation: Atlas Hotel
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.
Private Vehicle (Dushanbe – Kuli Iskandarkul)
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Iskander Darya Waterfall
Kuli Iskandarkul
Take a short hike through the peaceful Fan Mountains to Iskander Darya waterfall, or Fan Niagra. The Iskander Darya river flows from the famous Iskandarkul Lake, named after Alexander the Great for his love of place. This massive, majestic waterfall falls from a height of 38 meters.
Your Local Living Moment: Community Homestay
Enjoy an overnight stay in local homes in this stunningly beautiful area. Meet the locals and explore the gorgeous landscape of the Fann Mountains.
Accommodation: Homestay Ghazza 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.
Your Local Living Moment: Community Homestay
Enjoy an overnight stay in local homes in this stunningly beautiful area. Meet the locals and explore the gorgeous landscape of the Fann Mountains.
Free Time
Kuli Iskandarkul | Half Day
Get out and explore the region.
Community Homestay
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.
Private Vehicle (Kuli Iskandarkul – Khujand)
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Mug Tepe Visit
Istaravshan
Visit a fortress stormed by Alexander the Great in 329 BC and again by Arabs in 772 AD. Learn more about the history of this place and soak in the view over the city.
City Tour
Khujand
Explore the city, visiting the museum and a mausoleum.
Accommodation: Sugdiyon Hotel
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.
Some travellers will be joining the group here as they start their journey into Uzbekistan.
Market Visit
Khujand
Visit the market in Khujand. It’s the largest in Tajikistan and a great example of a typical Central Asian market. Enjoy browsing what’s for sale and opt to sample a few of the local delicacies.
Orientation Walk | 30m-1h
Enjoy a brief walk with your CEO. He/she will give you some tips on finding things like supermarkets, main squares, and ATMs. For more specific or in-depth information, an official guided tour is recommended.
Border Crossing (Tajikistan – Uzbekistan)
Ready for a little more ink in your passport? Grab your bags and get ready to check another country off your bucket list.
Private Vehicle (Khujand – Tashkent)
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Accommodation: Alpha Plaza Hotel and Spa
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.
Free Time | Tashkent
Head out and explore Uzbekistan’s capital city.
Accommodation: Alpha Plaza Hotel and SPA
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.
Orientation Walk | 30m-1h
Enjoy a brief walk with your CEO. He/she will give you some tips on finding things like supermarkets, main squares, and ATMs. For more specific or in-depth information, an official guided tour is recommended.
Private Vehicle (Tashkent – Samarkand)
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Optional Activity – Amir Timur Mausoleum Visit
Samarkand (3USD per person)
Amir Timur, known as Tamerlane, is an important figure to the city of Samarkand. He was a conqueror in the 14th century hoping to rebuild the empire of Genghis Khan and is considered the last of the great conquerors of the Eurasian steppe. Visit his mausoleum and learn more about his life and contributions.
Accommodation: Zarina Hotel
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.
Free Time
Samarkand | Afternoon
Head out and discover more of Samarkand.
Samarkand City Tour
Visit the important sights of the city with an expert local guide. See the Ulugbek Observatory, Shaki Zinda complex, bazaar, Bibi Khanum, and Registan Square.
Optional Activity – Tomb of the Old Testament Prophet Daniel Visit
Samarkand (3USD per person)
Enjoy a visit to the Tomb of the Old Testament Prophet Daniel, famous for the Biblical story of Daniel and the lions. A legend says that his body grows by half an inch every year!
Accommodation: Zarina Hotel
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.
Private Vehicle
Samarkand – Aydar Kŭl Camp
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Chashma Complex and Holy Spring Visit
Nurata
The Chashma Complex in Nurata contains multiple important Islamic sights including the Juma Mosque and spring. The spring is believed to heal diseases and attracts many visitors.
Fortress of Alexander the Great Visit
Nurata
The city of Nurata was founded by Alexander the Great in 327BC and the remains of his fortress are still standing. The area is mentioned in many historical texts as being of strategic importance.
Your Local Living Moment: Overnight in a Yurt
Stay in traditional felt yurts and experience the way of life in the remote reaches of Uzbekistan.
Optional Activity – Kazakh Singing
Aydar Kŭl Camp (Free)
Sit back and enjoy some local culture with a Kazakh singing performance.
Accommodation: Yurt Camp Stay Aidarkul
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.
Private Vehicle (Aydar Kŭl Camp – Bukhara)
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Free Time
Bukhara | Half Day
Spend the afternoon wandering and get to know the city.
Optional Activity – Bukhara Hammam Visit
Bukhara (20USD per person)
There are a few hammam choices in the city and they are often gender specific – Hammam Kunjak for ladies and Bozori Kord Hammam for gentlemen. Depending on the day of the week and when you want to go, your CEO can advise you on some options.
Accommodation: Hotel As-Salam
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.
Free Time
Bukhara | Afternoon
This is the perfect city for shopping or enjoying tea and snacks at a chaykhana.
Bukhara City Tour
Bukhara
Take an included city tour with a local guide to visit the the Samanid Mausoleum, the Ark Citadel, and the Poi-i-Kalon complex. Walk around beautifully restored mosques, madrassas, and covered markets that make up the Old City.
Optional Activities
Bukhara Hammam Visit
Bukhara (20USD per person)
There are a few hammam choices in the city and they are often gender specific – Hammam Kunjak for ladies and Bozori Kord Hammam for gentlemen. Depending on the day of the week and when you want to go, your CEO can advise you on some options.
Carpet Museum
Bukhara (1USD per person)
The Magok-i Attari Mosque (Museum of Carpets) offers information about the art of carpet making and some fine examples to boot. Perhaps more impressively, the building the museum is located in was once used for Jewish, Muslim, and Christian services, demonstrating the diversity and open-mindedness of this intriguing city.
Jewish Area and Synagogue Visit
Bukhara (FREE)
Bukhara has a fascinating Jewish history, with Bukharan Jews speaking a Turkic-Persian dialect with a Hebrew script. The city once was home to 40,000 Jews and now has a community of about 25-30 families. The synagogue is well worth a visit (donation expected) and houses a Torah that is roughly 1,000 years old. Please note that on Friday evenings and Saturday, the Synagogue is usually closed for Shabbat.
Chor-Bakr Complex
Bukhara
This UNESCO World Heritage Site is the burial site of Abu-Bakr-Said, one of the four descendants of the Prophet Muhammad. Wander around the necropolis of family tombs and enclosed courtyards while admiring the simple, yet intricate beauty.
Accommodation: Hotel As-Salam
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.
Private Vehicle (Bukhara – Khiva)
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Orientation Walk | 30m-1h
Enjoy a brief walk with your CEO. He/she will give you some tips on finding things like supermarkets, main squares, and ATMs. For more specific or in-depth information, an official guided tour is recommended.
Accommodation: Hotel Grand Vizir
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.
Free Time
Khiva | Full Day
Get to know this humble UNESCO-listed city with a free day to explore at your own pace.
Khiva Ancient City Tour
Khiva
Khiva is currently almost a museum city, with well-preserved city walls and ancient monuments. Wander the city and learn about life here and its important place in history.
Accommodation: Hotel Grand Vizir
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.
Private Vehicle (Khiva – Dashoguz)
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Border Crossing (Uzbekistan to Turkmenistan)
Khiva – Shavat
Cross the border on foot and enter Turkmenistan.
Free Time
Khiva | Morning
Enjoy your last morning in Khiva, taking in anything you have yet to experience.
Optional Activities
Bai Bazaar
Dashoguz (FREE)
Walk around and explore the Bai Bazaar. Opt to purchase fruits or pastries and sample local foods.
Dashoguz Museum
Dashoguz (10USD per person)
Learn more about the history, culture, and art of Turkmenistan at the Dashoguz Museum. From archeological finds to ancient clothes, find the various moments of history captured and on display in this stunning landmark.
Accomodation: Hotel Dashoguz
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.
Private Vehicle (Dashoguz – Kunya-Urgench)
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Kunya-Urgench City Visit
Kunya-Urgench
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this town was abandoned in the 1700s and has remained untouched ever since. Visit the series of monuments built between the 11th and 16th centuries including a mosque, the gates of a caravanserai, fortresses, mausoleums, and a 60 meter high minaret.
Private Vehicle (Kunya-Urgench – Darvaza)
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Darvaza Gas Crater Visit
Often referred to as the ‘Gates of Hell’, this gas crater was originally constructed to support a drilling rig but collapsed. As residents discovered the natural gas leak, it was set on fire to burn off over the course of several weeks. Decades later it continues to burn.
Accommodation: Darwaza Camping
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.
Private Vehicle (Darvaza – Ashgabat)
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Erbent Sand Dunes
Walk across the ancient sands of the central Karakum Desert near the village of Erbent. Keep your camera handy – the Karakum dunes are a stunning landscape any time of year.
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.
Free Time
Ashgabat | Afternoon
Enjoy some free time today to explore the sights or relax in the city.
Ashgabat city tour
Start the day exploring the Monument of Independence followed by the National Museum of History and Ethnography. Next, visit the Arch of Neutrality and end the tour at the Gulistan market.
Optional Activities
Ashgabat Hippodrome
Ashgabat (FREE)
The largest hippodrome in the country, attend a horse race or just explore the grounds and view the markets, facilities, and playground.
Ertugrul Gazi Mosque
Ashgabat (FREE)
With four minarets and a central dome, this mosque honours the founder of the Ottoman Empire, Osman I. Here, find a lavish interior and stained glass windows.
Farewell Dinner Tonight
Depart at any time after breakfast.
Group Transfers are included
Inclusions
- Standard hotels/guesthouses (19 nts), yurts (3 nts), homestay (2 nt), tented camp (1 nt)
- Early Checkin included
- 25 breakfasts, 5 lunches, 11 dinners
- Your G for Good Moment: Yurt Building Demonstration, Barskoon
- Your Welcome Moment: Welcome Meeting - 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.
Five Stans
Be prepared before you leave for your trip
Please carefully read all of the info below as it’s designed to help you have a smooth travel experience.
All G Adventures travellers are responsible for arranging and obtaining the required entry documentation for the countries they intend to visit.
In an effort to prevent the spread of COVID-19, entry requirements and restrictions dictated by foreign governments can change frequently and irrespective of your intended date of travel. These requirements and restrictions may depend on different factors such as your country of residence, passport nationality, destination and transit points, as well as previous travel history. Given these considerations, it is the traveller’s responsibility to research and to understand the latest travel and health requirements and restrictions by destination which are most relevant to them at the time of travel and to the destination(s) they are planning to visit, as well as to keep themselves up to date.
Important considerations:
• Don’t forget to consider the latest travel and health requirements and restrictions by destination, for both directions of travel — not just for the start country of your tour.
• Don’t book your international flights before you do your own research, or before you talk to your travel agent, as you may be required to book post-nights before your return flight in order to accommodate COVID-19 testing.
• If you visit multiple countries as part of your itinerary or on the way to your destination, there may be additional entry requirements. Keep this in consideration when verifying your documentation.
Standard hotels/guesthouses (19 nts), yurts (3 nts), CBT homestays (2 nts), tented camp (1 nt). Please note that there will be shared bathroom facilities when staying in the yurts.
Visas are required for Turkmenistan. Please allow approx $120 USD
A Moderate fitness level is required on this tour as there is a lot of walking involved, some hiking and some long days driving.