Overview
Book online and enjoy exclusive savings on G Adventures 9 Day Signature: The Northern Stans & the Silk Road. Traverse the ancient Silk Road across Central Asia, from the mountains of Kyrgyzstan to bustling Uzbekistan. Explore Scythian archaeology, meet snow leopard conservationists, and share meals with Tajik families. Guided by experts, discover a region where nomadic traditions and imperial history converge.
Our Price From
US$5,431 per person
Price shown based on twin share
Save up to $180 per person
Trip Length
9 Days
Trip Starts
Bishkek
Trip Ends
Tashkent
Departures
Apr 2027 to Oct 2027
Countries Visited:
Operator
G Adventures
Trip Style
National Geographic Signature
Accommodation
4.5 - 5 Star
Budget
Premium
Age Range
6-99 Years
Max. Group Size
22
Pace
Leisurely
Guide Style
Fully Guided
Tour Code
AYITNS
Itinerary
Welcome to the Silk Road. Your expedition begins as you touch down in Bishkek, the capital of Kyrgyzstan, framed by the snow-capped Tian Shan mountains. You will be met at the airport and transferred to your hotel. In the evening, gather with your National Geographic Expedition Leader and fellow travellers. An engaging presentation sets the historical stage for the expedition ahead, followed by a hearty dinner at a traditional restaurant to mark the start of your Central Asian exploration. Stay: Hyatt Regency Bishkek (D)
Begin with a deep dive into conservation. Attend a presentation by a National Geographic Explorer from the Snow Leopard Foundation, learning about the critical efforts to protect these elusive "ghosts of the mountains." Continue with a walking tour of Bishkek, strolling through the leafy Oak Park and standing before the imposing Soviet-era architecture of Parliament and Victory Square. In the evening, immerse yourself in Kyrgyz culture at the Supara Ethno-Complex. Savor authentic dishes while watching vivid demonstrations of traditional clothing and elaborate headdresses, celebrating the nation's nomadic heritage. Stay: Hyatt Regency Bishkek (B/D)
Depart Bishkek driving through the foothills of the Tian Shan mountains, watching the landscape shift from city to steppe. Arrive at the UNESCO-listed Burana Complex to explore the ancient minaret and the field of balbals (stone warrior statues). Continue to a nearby village for some regional hospitality at a home-hosted Kyrgyz lunch. Here, witness traditions that define the nomadic spirit. In the evening, fly to Almaty, Kazakhstan, settling in for the next chapter of the expedition. Stay: Rixos Almaty Hotel (B/L)
Discover the cultural heart of Kazakhstan with a guided tour of Almaty. Stand in Republic Square beneath the Independence Monument, a symbol of national identity. Stroll through the serene Panfilov Park to admire the candy-colored Zenkov Cathedral, one of the world’s tallest wooden buildings, constructed without a single nail. Dive into the sensory evoking Green Bazaar, smelling the spices and tasting local cheeses. Conclude the day with an authentic Kazakh dinner at a restaurant tucked into a traditional yurt, feeling the heart of nomadic culture. Stay: Rixos Almaty Hotel (B/L/D)
Experience pre-opening access to the Issyk State Historical and Cultural Reserve Museum. Join a curator for a private talk on the "Golden Man," a suit of Scythian armor from the 4th century BC that rivals the treasures of Tutankhamun. In the afternoon, travel to the Huns Ethno Village for an experience of living history. Watch traditional horse handling and craft demonstrations that bring the nomadic past to life. Enjoy a home-style lunch in a yurt before returning to Almaty for a free evening. Stay: Rixos Almaty Hotel (B/L)
Fly south to Dushanbe, the leafy capital of Tajikistan. Upon arrival, embark on a guided tour of the city’s cultural landmarks. Stand in Somoni Square beneath the golden statue of Ismoil Somoni, the father of the Tajik nation, and visit the grand Main Mosque. As evening falls, gather for a traditional Tajik welcome dinner at Zaytun. Savor a three-course meal of salads, hearty mains, and local desserts, offering a warm culinary introduction to the hospitality of Tajikistan. Stay: Crown Plaza Dushanbe (B/D)
Delve into ancient history at the National Museum of Antiquities. Join an archaeologist for a session focused on the influence of Buddhism in Central Asia, viewing rare artifacts including a massive reclining Buddha. Travel to the 2,500-year-old Hissor Fortress, once a strategic stop on the Silk Road. The day becomes intimate with a visit to a local craftsman’s home. Watch bread baking in a traditional tandoor and learn to prepare qurutob, the national dish, before sharing the home-cooked lunch with the family. Stay: Crown Plaza Dushanbe (B/L)
Fly to Tashkent, the capital of Uzbekistan. Discover the city’s unique blend of Islamic and Soviet heritage. Descend into the Tashkent metro, where each station is seemingly an underground palace adorned with chandeliers and mosaics. Visit the Monument of Courage, dedicated to the resilience of the city after the 1966 earthquake. The expedition concludes on a high note: gather for a cocktail reception and farewell dinner at Koinot Restaurant, perched atop the soaring Tashkent TV Tower. Toast your adventure with panoramic views of the city glittering below. Stay: Lotte City Tashkent Palace Hotel (B/D)
Your expedition concludes today. Transfers are provided to the airport at any time during the day. (B)
Trip Inclusions
- Gain insight into local conservation with a talk by a National Geographic Explorer.
- Enjoy pre-opening access and a curator talk on the Scythian 'Golden Man' treasure.
- Witness traditional games and activities.
- Followed by a home-hosted Kyrgyz lunch.
- Explore Tajikistan's National Museum with an archaeologist focusing on Buddhist history.
- Tour Soviet monuments before a panoramic farewell dinner atop the Tashkent TV Tower.
- Your Welcome Moment: Meet Your Expedition Leader and Group, Bishkek
- Your Foodie Moment: Kazakh Dinner in Traditional Yurt, Almaty
- Signature Moment: “Golden Man” Experience at Issyk State Historical and Cultural Reserve Museum, Almaty
- Arrival and departure transfer
- Bishkek City Walking Tour
- Free time in Bishkek
- Traditional Kyrgyz Dinner & Cultural Demonstration
- Burana Tower Visit
- Lunch and Village Immersion with Nomadic Traditions
- Almaty City Tour
- Central State Museum of the Republic of Kazakhstan
- Huns Ethno Village Visit and Lunch
- Free Time in Almaty
- Guided City Tour of Dushanbe
- Traditional Tajik Welcome Dinner
- National Museum of Antiquities of Tajikistan
- Historic Hissor Fortress & Madrasah
- Local Family Visit & Cultural Experience
- Free time in Dushanbe
- Guided City Tour of Tashkent
- Farewell Dinner at the TV Tower
- Engaging Discussions with the National Geographic Expedition Expert throughout
- Porterage at hotels and when getting on and off of vehicles
- Tips are included for all activities, meals and porterage, except for your Expedition Leader and Expert
- All transport between destinations and to/from included activities
- Hotels (8 nights)
- National Geographic Expedition Leader and National Geographic Expedition Expert
- 8 breakfasts, 4 lunches, 5 dinners
- Private Vehicle, Metro, Plane, Walking
- Accommodation, itinerary and inclusions subject to change.
- Price is for land, cruise and internal flights as specified. Flights not specified are not included
Operator
G Adventures came from a desire to deliver authentic and responsible small group travel adventures that were equally life-changing for travellers and the communities they visit. And we’re been doing just that for almost 30 years. Our award-winning trips span seven continents and over 100 countries, giving you meaningful more experiences with people, cultures, landscapes and wildlife, as well as offering you the freedom and flexibility to explore on your own.
On all of our tours, you get to know locals every step of the way, from the places you visit and stay to where you eat and drink. You’ll also get to experience our ‘G for Good’ social impact initiatives on-trip, including our industry-leading ‘Ripple Score’. This score measures, as a percentage, the amount of money that stays in the local community through on-trip services like accommodation, restaurants and transport.
On all of our tours, you get to know locals every step of the way, from the places you visit and stay to where you eat and drink. You’ll also get to experience our ‘G for Good’ social impact initiatives on-trip, including our industry-leading ‘Ripple Score’. This score measures, as a percentage, the amount of money that stays in the local community through on-trip services like accommodation, restaurants and transport.
Trip Style: National Geographic Signature
These ultra-premium journeys combine deep cultural immersion with five-star comfort and the authority of National Geographic. Created in collaboration with G Adventures, each experience offers rare access, meaningful connections with communities, and expert insight from leading specialists. With world-class service, thoughtfully curated inclusions, and unforgettable Signature Moments throughout, these journeys are designed for travelers who seek refined luxury without losing a sense of purpose or discovery.
Dates & Pricing
USD
Tuesday
13 Apr 2027
13 Apr 27
Bishkek
Wednesday
21 Apr 2027
21 Apr 27
Tashkent
Details
Definite Departure
Exclusive Savings
Was: $5,599
US$5,431
Save $168
Twin Share (Per Personpp)
Tuesday
27 Apr 2027
27 Apr 27
Bishkek
Wednesday
05 May 2027
05 May 27
Tashkent
Details
Definite Departure
Exclusive Savings
Was: $5,599
US$5,431
Save $168
Twin Share (Per Personpp)
Note
A definite departure means minimum numbers have been reached for this departure to operate. Your Global Journeys Travel Advisor will check the availability of your departure date when you Inquire. Additional savings may apply. T&C’s apply.
A definite departure means minimum numbers have been reached for this departure to operate. Your Global Journeys Travel Advisor will check the availability of your departure date when you Inquire. Additional savings may apply. T&C’s apply.
Note
Tour & cruises prices are per person. Prices shown have savings applied, are subject to availability and may be withdrawn at any time without notice. Pricing and trip details are correct at this point in time, however are subject to confirmation at the time of booking and are subject to change by G Adventures. For cruise itineraries, cabin images are sourced from the cruise-line and should be treated as indicative only. Cabin inclusions, upholsteries and room layout may differ to the image(s) shown depending on the ship selected and your sailing dates.
Tour & cruises prices are per person. Prices shown have savings applied, are subject to availability and may be withdrawn at any time without notice. Pricing and trip details are correct at this point in time, however are subject to confirmation at the time of booking and are subject to change by G Adventures. For cruise itineraries, cabin images are sourced from the cruise-line and should be treated as indicative only. Cabin inclusions, upholsteries and room layout may differ to the image(s) shown depending on the ship selected and your sailing dates.
Similar Tours
10 Days Zürich Milan
Operated By: G Adventures
From
11,251
Save
360
10 Days Amsterdam Munich
Operated By: G Adventures
From
1,499
Save
525
9 Days Islamabad Islamabad
Operated By: G Adventures
From
1,939
Save
560
