This morning, leave Bishkek behind and begin your journey into the valleys and foothills that characterise northern Kyrgyzstan. The landscape shifts quickly from city streets to open countryside, revealing rural villages, grazing livestock and wide views across the Chuy Valley. En route, stop at the UNESCO-listed Burana Tower, an 11th-century minaret built by the Karakhanid dynasty. Climb its narrow interior staircase for sweeping views across the surrounding fields and mountains, then explore the nearby open-air collection of balbals, the carved stone figures that once marked ancient burial mounds.
Continuing toward Chon Kemin, the road winds deeper into a broad, beautiful gorge known for its forests, meadows and river-cut slopes. On arrival, settle into your family-run guesthouse — a simple yet warmly welcoming stay that reflects the region’s traditional rural lifestyle. Take in the fresh mountain air and slower pace of village life, with time to unwind or stretch your legs before dinner. As the evening settles over the valley, enjoy a peaceful night surrounded by Kyrgyz nature.
Travel time: Driving – approx. four hours / 160km
Depart Chon Kemin this morning and travel toward the southern shores of Issyk-Kul, the vast alpine lake known as the “Pearl of Kyrgyzstan.” As you follow the shoreline, the scenery shifts between open steppe, lakeside villages and striking views of the Tian Shan rising in the distance. Stop in Bokonbaevo village to meet a local eagle hunter and learn about the centuries-old tradition of hunting with trained golden eagles. Watching the close bond between hunter and bird offers rare insight into a practice that has shaped nomadic culture for generations.
Continue to Skazka Canyon, also known as “Fairytale Canyon,” where wind-carved sandstone formations glow in shades of red, gold and orange. Enjoy a short walk through the sculpted ridges and narrow passages, taking in the unusual patterns and colours that make this one of the region’s most photographed natural sights. In the afternoon, arrive in Tamga and settle into your yurt camp, a simple, atmospheric stay that reflects Kyrgyzstan’s nomadic heritage. As the sun dips behind the mountains, the quiet of the steppe offers a memorable introduction to life on the road through Central Asia.
Travel time: Driving – approx. four hours / 180km
Depart Tamga this morning and travel toward one of Kyrgyzstan’s most beloved natural landmarks: the red sandstone formations of Jety Oguz. Here, you’ll encounter the famous “Seven Bulls” and the striking “Broken Heart” rock, both shaped by centuries of erosion and woven into local folklore. The lush valley surrounding the canyon offers a beautiful contrast to the dramatic cliffs, creating a memorable stop for photographs and gentle exploration.
Continue to Karakol, a town known for its diverse cultural heritage and charming architecture shaped by Kyrgyz, Dungan and Russian influences. Visit the distinctive Dungan Mosque, built entirely of wood without the use of nails, and admire its vivid colours and curved, pagoda-style roof. Nearby, the Holy Trinity Orthodox Cathedral showcases another side of the town’s history with its carved wooden façade and serene interior. Together, these landmarks reveal the multicultural character that has long defined life at the edge of the Tian Shan.
Arrive at your guesthouse in the late afternoon and take time to unwind before dinner.
Travel time: Driving – approx. three hours / 160km
Depart Karakol this morning and travel toward the Kegen border, where you’ll complete the necessary formalities before crossing from Kyrgyzstan into Kazakhstan. The landscape gradually opens into wide valleys and distant mountain ridgelines, hinting at the vast steppes that define this region. After crossing the frontier, continue your drive to the village of Chundzha, known for its naturally heated mineral springs.
On arrival, settle into your accommodation and enjoy the rest of the afternoon at leisure. The thermal springs here are naturally warmed by underground volcanic activity. Several mineral-rich pools — each with distinct compositions — offer a soothing place to unwind after the journey. Take time to soak and relax as the semi-desert landscape fades into the quiet of this restorative Kazakh retreat.
As evening settles in, enjoy dinner at your hotel. The peaceful pace of Chundzha offers a gentle interlude before the dramatic canyons and alpine lakes that await in the days ahead.
Travel time: Driving – approx. five hours / 230km
Depart Chundzha this morning and drive toward one of Kazakhstan’s most striking natural wonders: Charyn Canyon. Carved over millions of years by the Charyn River, the canyon stretches for more than 50 kilometres and reveals towering walls that rise up to 300 metres. Shades of red, gold and rust shimmer along the rock formations, creating an ever-changing display of colour as the light shifts across the valley. Your visit focuses on the renowned Valley of Castles, where sculpted pillars and narrow passages showcase the canyon’s most dramatic contours.
Continue toward Saty, a quiet village framed by mountains and forests that mark the gateway to the Kolsai Lakes region. On arrival, check into your eco-hotel and take time to enjoy the fresh mountain air and calm surroundings. The slower pace here offers a welcome contrast to the dramatic landscapes explored earlier in the day, giving you the chance to rest ahead of tomorrow’s alpine walks.
In the evening, gather for dinner at your accommodation and enjoy a peaceful night in this scenic mountain setting.
Travel time: Driving – approx. three hours / 160km
Begin the day with a short drive toward the first of the Kolsai Lakes, often called the “Pearls of the Northern Tien Shan.” Surrounded by dense spruce forests and steep mountain ridges, the lower lake offers a peaceful introduction to the region’s alpine scenery. Enjoy a gentle walk along the lakeshore, taking in the reflections of the surrounding peaks, crisp mountain air and quiet, glassy waters that define this picturesque spot.
Continue the journey toward Almaty, travelling through broad river valleys and winding mountain roads. As the scenery gradually shifts from rural landscapes to the urban edges of Kazakhstan’s former capital, your guide shares insights into the city’s origins and its role as a cultural and commercial hub. On arrival, check into your hotel and take time to rest before dinner.
This evening, gather for a relaxed meal at your accommodation.
Travel time: Driving – approx. five hours / 280km
Depart Almaty this morning for the Huns Ethno Village, where traditional Kazakh culture is brought to life through demonstrations, performances and hands-on activities. On arrival, meet local hosts dressed in the armour and attire of ancient Saka warriors before stepping inside a series of traditional yurts that showcase regional crafts and customs. Take part in a baursak-making class, learn the basics of archery and observe ceremonial rituals and dances that reflect centuries of nomadic heritage.
After lunch, return toward the city with a visit to the Sunkar Falcon Centre, home to a collection of trained birds of prey. Here, you’ll gain insight into Kazakhstan’s long history of falconry and the skill required to train these powerful raptors. The centre’s demonstrations offer a close-up perspective on a tradition still valued in rural communities today.
Arrive back in Almaty in the late afternoon and enjoy some time to relax before dinner. This evening, savour a quiet meal at your hotel and unwind ahead of tomorrow’s flight into Tajikistan.
Travel time: Driving – approx. two hours / 120km
Begin the morning with a visit to Almaty’s Green Bazaar, where colourful produce, local spices and traditional sweets create a lively snapshot of daily life. Stroll through the busy aisles before continuing to Panfilov Park, home to the striking Zenkov Cathedral — a wooden architectural masterpiece built without nails. From here, explore the Museum of Kazakh Musical Instruments and the State Historical Museum, each offering deeper insight into the region’s culture and heritage. Conclude your Almaty touring with a cableway ride up Kok-Tobe Hill for panoramic views across the city and its surrounding mountains.
This afternoon, transfer to the airport for your flight to Dushanbe, crossing from Kazakhstan into Tajikistan. On arrival, meet your local Tajik guide and transfer to your hotel in the capital, where you can settle in for a relaxed evening.
Travel time: Flight– approx. two hours
Begin your day exploring Dushanbe, a city shaped by Persian roots, Soviet-era planning and Tajik traditions. Start with a visit to the Museum of Archaeology, home to a rich collection of artefacts that trace the region’s ancient history and Silk Road connections. Exhibits include sculptures, relics and architectural fragments that help bring Central Asia’s earliest civilisations into focus. As you move through the galleries, the displays provide valuable insight into Tajikistan’s cultural lineage and the discoveries that have shaped local identity.
Continue to the Hissar Fortress, once a strategic stronghold and royal residence. Its imposing stone gateway stands as a powerful reminder of the region’s historic rulers and shifting empires. Wander the grounds to imagine the activity that once filled the surrounding caravanserais, madrassas and courtyards. The rural backdrop of rolling hills creates a scenic contrast to the fortified walls, offering a peaceful end to your day of exploration.
Return to Dushanbe in the late afternoon and enjoy time to unwind before dinner at your accommodation.
Spend another day discovering Dushanbe’s blend of monumental architecture, landscaped parks and cultural landmarks. Begin at the Ismoil Somoni Monument, dedicated to the founder of the Samanid dynasty and one of the most significant figures in Tajik history. From here, continue to Rudaki Park and the National Library, two elegant public spaces that showcase the city’s thoughtful urban design and growing cultural identity.
Continue to the towering national flagpole — once the tallest in the world — which rises prominently above the surrounding gardens. Then explore the Museum of National Antiquities, home to an impressive collection of artefacts that shed light on the region’s ancient civilisations and Silk Road connections. A visit to the ornate Kokhi Navruz Teahouse highlights the craftsmanship and artistry for which Tajik culture is known, followed by time to browse the lively Asian Bazaar.
Return to your hotel in the late afternoon to unwind before dinner, reflecting on the diverse influences that shape Tajikistan’s capital.
Depart Dushanbe this morning and travel into the Fann Mountains, following a dramatic route that climbs steadily toward the high passes. The drive offers sweeping views of rugged peaks and winding river valleys, with changing altitudes revealing stark shifts in landscape. Cross the Anzob Pass at 3,372 metres, where the cool mountain air and panoramic vistas highlight the region’s raw natural beauty. Continue on to Iskanderkul Lake, a striking alpine gem set at 2,255 metres above sea level.
Explore the peaceful shores of Iskanderkul, set against rugged cliffs and sweeping alpine views. You’ll also have the chance to visit Snake Lake and a nearby waterfall, each offering distinctive glimpses of the region’s mountain scenery. Throughout the area, the surrounding peaks create a memorable backdrop for quiet reflection and photography.
In the afternoon, travel onward to Panjakent, descending through scenic valleys and remote villages along the way. Arrive at your accommodation in the early evening and enjoy dinner at your hotel, settling in ahead of tomorrow’s exploration of the region’s archaeological heritage.
Travel time: Driving – approx. six hours / 310km
Spend your day exploring Panjakent, located in the Zeravshan River Valley. Here, you’ll unearth the ancient ruins of Sarazm on the outskirts of the city, another popular stop along the Silk Road.
Later, cross into Uzbekistan at the Jartepa checkpoint. Upon arrival, meet your Uzbek tour guide and take the hour-long drive to Samarkand. Once you’ve checked in at your hotel, step out to see the famed design of Registan Square. Through its intricately decorated entrance, pay a visit to Gur-e-Amir Mausoleum – the final resting place of the infamous Amir Timur.
Travel time: Driving – approx. 90 minutes / 60km
Samarkand’s history stretches back more than two millennia, and today you’ll explore some of its most impressive monuments. Begin at the Shah-i-Zinda Necropolis, a stunning avenue of mausoleums decorated with vivid turquoise tiles and intricate patterns. Continue to the Bibi-Khanum Mosque, once among the grandest in the Islamic world, built in honour of Amir Timur’s wife. Its towering arches and detailed façades offer a sense of the city’s former power and prestige.
Next, visit the Ulugbek Observatory, where the Timurid ruler and astronomer Ulugbek conducted groundbreaking work in the 15th century. Nearby, the Afrasiab Museum reveals archaeological discoveries from Samarkand’s earliest eras, including frescoes and artefacts that illuminate ancient daily life. Conclude your sightseeing at the Tomb of Saint Daniyar and a traditional paper mill, where artisans demonstrate centuries-old techniques used to produce handmade paper.
Return to your hotel in the late afternoon to relax before dinner, reflecting on a day spent discovering one of the Silk Road’s most acclaimed cities.
Depart Samarkand this morning and travel toward Bukhara, following a route once frequented by Silk Road caravans. Your first stop is the ancient Caravanserai Malik Rabat, a fortified roadside inn that once provided shelter for merchants and traders. Nearby, visit Sardoba, an impressive domed water reservoir that supplied passing caravans on their long journeys across the steppe.
Continue to Gijduvan, a town renowned for its centuries-old ceramic traditions. Here, visit the workshop of a well-known local master to observe the process behind the region’s distinctive pottery, from hand-throwing to intricate glazing techniques. The experience offers an engaging look at the craftsmanship that has been passed down through generations.
Arrive in Bukhara and visit Sitorai Mokhi-Khosa, the former summer residence of the last Emir of Bukhara. Its blend of Russian and Central Asian architectural styles creates a unique and elegant atmosphere. Conclude the day at Lyabi Hauz Square, surrounded by historic trading domes and quiet courtyards that reflect the timeless character of this oasis city
Travel time: Driving – approx. four hours / 270km
With a history spanning more than 2,500 years, Bukhara stands as one of Central Asia’s great Silk Road cities. Begin the day at the Mausoleum of the Samanids, an architectural masterpiece and one of the region’s oldest surviving monuments. Its intricate brickwork and harmonious proportions reflect the artistry of the early Islamic period. Nearby, visit the Bolo Hauz Mosque, known for its elegant wooden pillars and peaceful courtyard.
Continue to the Ark Citadel, the ancient fortress that served as the residence of Bukhara’s rulers for centuries. Explore its gateways and inner complexes to gain insight into the political and cultural significance of this long-standing stronghold. Complete your sightseeing at the Poi Kalon Complex, where the towering minaret, mosque and madrasah form one of Uzbekistan’s most iconic architectural ensembles.
Return to your hotel in the afternoon before dinner at your accommodation.
After breakfast, depart Bukhara and make your way toward the Uzbek–Turkmen border, allowing time to complete the necessary immigration and visa procedures. Once across the frontier, continue your journey to Turkmenabat, travelling through the shifting semi-desert landscapes that mark the edge of the Karakum. On arrival in the city, transfer to the airport for your included flight to Ashgabat, Turkmenistan’s striking capital.
Famous for its sweeping boulevards and gleaming white marble architecture, Ashgabat offers an immediate sense of grandeur. After checking into your hotel, enjoy the remainder of the afternoon at leisure — an ideal opportunity to rest or take a gentle stroll to absorb the city’s distinctive atmosphere.
This evening, sit down to dinner at a local restaurant, a fitting welcome to the capital before you begin discovering its landmarks tomorrow.
Travel time: Driving – approx. 3.5 hours / Flight – approx. one hour
After breakfast, set out on a guided street tour of Ashgabat, a city known for its dramatic skyline of white marble architecture and expansive ceremonial boulevards. Begin at the National Museum of Turkmenistan, where archaeological finds and cultural exhibits offer a vivid introduction to the country’s ancient civilisations and more recent history. Continue past the imposing Presidential Palace and the elegant Ruhyyet Palace, two landmarks that reflect Turkmenistan’s modern identity and architectural ambition.
Your tour also includes a stop at the city’s record-setting Ferris wheel, an impressive structure that highlights Ashgabat’s flair for grand design. From here, visit the Arch of Neutrality — one of the capital’s most recognisable monuments — before concluding at the Ertogrul Gazi Mosque, an ornate place of worship inspired by Ottoman architecture. The day provides a broad and engaging overview of the city’s defining landmarks and symbolic spaces.
Return to your hotel in the late afternoon, with time to unwind before dinner at your accommodation.
Depart Ashgabat this morning and travel into the surrounding foothills to visit Kow Ata, an underground lake known for its warm, mineral-rich waters. Hidden within a natural cave, the lake offers a unique setting where you can enjoy a refreshing swim beneath vaulted rock formations. Steam rising from the turquoise water creates an atmospheric contrast to the cool stone chamber, making this one of Turkmenistan’s most memorable natural sites.
Continue to Gokdepe, an area steeped in history and closely tied to Turkmen cultural identity. Visit the Geokdepe Mosque before travelling to a local horse farm to see the famed Akhal-Teke horses — celebrated for their athleticism, elegance and distinctive metallic sheen. Observing these remarkable animals provides an engaging insight into their importance in Turkmen heritage.
Return to Ashgabat in the late afternoon and enjoy the evening at your accommodation.
Travel time: Driving – approx. three hours / 215km
Depart Ashgabat this morning and travel north toward the Karakum Desert, a vast expanse of dunes and barren plains that reveals the raw, remote character of Turkmenistan’s interior. As the city’s marble skyline fades behind you, the landscape shifts to open horizons and quiet stretches of sand, emphasising the sense of entering one of Central Asia’s most isolated regions. The journey continues deeper into the desert as the scenery grows increasingly stark and atmospheric.
Arrive at the Darvaza Gas Crater — an extraordinary sight formed when a Soviet drilling rig collapsed into a natural gas cavern in 1971. Ignited deliberately to prevent the spread of fumes, the crater has burned continuously ever since, earning the name “Door to Hell.” As daylight fades, the scene becomes truly cinematic: flames rise and fall within the vast pit, casting a fiery glow across the desert and illuminating swirling heat against the night sky. Standing at the rim offers a rare, almost surreal encounter with one of the region’s most iconic natural phenomena.
After sunset, settle into your nearby yurt camp and enjoy dinner in this remote setting. With the desert quiet around you and the crater burning in the distance, your basic overnight stay captures the adventurous spirit of this off-the-beaten-track journey.
Travel time: Driving – approx. four hours / 280km
Fill up for your full day of travel with a picnic-style breakfast, then start the drive to Uzbekistan’s border, enjoying a stop for food and rest in Dashoguz. Cross the neutral zone once more, then meet with your Uzbek guide as you transfer to Khiva for the evening.Wake to the quiet of the desert and enjoy a simple breakfast at your yurt camp before beginning the journey north toward the Turkmen–Uzbek border. The drive offers one last look at the sweeping Karakum landscape, with long stretches of open terrain reflecting the remote character of this region. Arrive in Dashoguz for a short break before completing border formalities and transferring through the neutral zone to meet your Uzbek team on the other side.
Continue the journey into Uzbekistan and travel toward Khiva, one of the Silk Road’s best-preserved walled cities. As you approach, the silhouette of its minarets and mudbrick fortifications offers an atmospheric introduction to this ancient oasis settlement. On arrival, check into your hotel and take time to unwind before dinner.
This evening, enjoy a relaxed meal at your accommodation and settle in ahead of tomorrow’s full day of exploration in Khiva’s fabled old town.
Travel time: Driving – approx. six hours / 370km
Spend the day exploring Khiva, one of Central Asia’s most atmospheric Silk Road cities. Enclosed within ancient mudbrick walls, the old town of Itchan Kala feels like an open-air museum, with narrow lanes, carved wooden pillars and turquoise domes that reflect centuries of craftsmanship. Begin your walk at the Islam Khoja complex, home to one of the city’s tallest minarets. Its striking silhouette and vibrant tilework offer a memorable introduction to Khiva’s architectural style.
Continue to the Kalta-Minor Minaret, known for its distinctive turquoise tiles and unfinished height, before visiting the Kunya-Ark Citadel, the former residence of Khiva’s khans. Explore the Muhammad Amin Khan Madrasah, the Sayid Allauddin Mausoleum and the Shergazi-Khan Madrasah, each revealing different layers of the city’s cultural and religious heritage. Conclude your tour at the Tash-Khovli Palace, where intricately decorated halls and courtyards demonstrate the artistry of Khiva’s artisans.
Transfer to the airport this morning for your included flight from Urgench to Tashkent. On arrival in the Uzbek capital, a lively blend of Soviet-era avenues, modern developments and historic quarters awaits. Begin exploring the Old Town, where narrow lanes lead to the Barak-Khan Madrasah, Tillya Sheikh Mosque and the Kaffal Shashi Mausoleum — key sites that reflect the city’s long Islamic heritage. Continue to the Library of Islamic Literature, home to one of the world’s oldest known copies of the Quran.
From here, wander through Chor-Su Bazaar, an energetic marketplace filled with fresh produce, traditional crafts and local snacks. Afterwards, take a short ride on the city’s art-adorned metro system to reach the modern centre. Visit the Opera and Ballet Theatre, stroll through Mustakillik Square and walk along the tree-lined Broadway street toward Amir Temur Square, where monuments and gardens mark the historical heart of Tashkent.
Arrive at your hotel in the late afternoon. Tonight, enjoy a local farewell dinner as you say goodbye to your travel companions and reflect on the journey you’ve shared across the Five Stans.
Travel time: Driving – 40 minutes / Flight – approx. 80 minutes
Enjoy a final breakfast at your hotel before preparing for your onward journey. Depending on your flight time, spend the morning at leisure, perhaps taking one last walk through the neighbourhood or relaxing at the hotel. Transfer to the airport for your departure, marking the end of your Central Asian adventure.