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.
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.
Accommodation: Hyatt Regency Bishkek
Included Meals: Dinner
Included Experiences
- Arrival Transfer: You will be met at the airport and transferred to the hotel to start your adventure.
- Welcome Moment - Meet Your Expedition Leader and Group: The adventure begins tonight. Feel free to explore before your welcome meeting, but make sure you’re back in time to meet the group. Check for the meeting time on the welcome note at the hotel and enjoy a welcome reception with wine, beer, and appetizers, followed by an orientation and an expert-led “Introduction to the Silk Road” presentation in the conference room before departing for the Welcome Dinner.
- Welcome Dinner in Bishkek: Transfer to a traditional local restaurant for an included 3-course Welcome Dinner.
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.
Accommodation: Hyatt Regency Bishkek
Included Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Included Experiences
- National Geographic Expert Discussion about the Snow Leopard Foundation: Gain a deeper understanding of local conservation through a session with a National Geographic grantee from the Snow Leopard Foundation.
- Bishkek City Walking Tour: Explore the city’s cultural and historical landmarks by foot, including Panfilov Park, Oak Park, Victory Square, and the iconic Lenin Statue. For this walking tour, comfortable shoes are recommended and short rest stops and photo breaks will be arranged along the route.
- Free time in Bishkek: Enjoy free time to explore Bishkek at leisure.
- Traditional Kyrgyz Dinner & Cultural Demonstration: Enjoy an immersive visit to the Supara Ethno-Complex to savor authentic Kyrgyz cuisine alongside engaging demonstrations of traditional clothing and women’s headdresses.
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.
Accommodation: Rixos Almaty Hotel
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Included Experiences
- Burana Tower Visit: Visit the historical site of Burana and climb the stairs to check out the view from the top. A large minaret, along with some grave markers and remnants of a castle and mausoleums, are all that remain of the 9th century city of Balasagun.
- Lunch and Village Immersion with Nomadic Traditions: Enjoy a home-hosted Kyrgyz lunch paired with demonstrations of eagle hunting and Uluk Tartysh (kok-boru) that offers an authentic window into nomadic culture, hospitality, and daily life.
- Plane: Look! Up in the sky! It's a bird! It's a plane! It's... yup, it is a plane, actually.
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.
Accommodation: Rixos Almaty Hotel
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Included Experiences
- Expert Discussion: Almaty: Begin with an expert session before a guided tour of Almaty’s most important landmarks.
- Almaty City Tour: Get to know Almaty on a city tour, visiting the most stunning sights. Stop by the colourful Ascension 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.
- Central State Museum of the Republic of Kazakhstan: Once within the Almaty Cathedral and now in a beautiful Kazakh building lives one of the largest museums in Central Asia, the Central State Museum of the Republic of Kazakhstan. Here you will find an incredible and significant collection of historic Kazakh archaeological, cultural and political artifacts.
- Kazakh Dinner in Traditional Yurt: Conclude the day with an incredible dinner at a locally renowned restaurant located in a traditional-style Kazakh yurt, offering an authentic taste of Kazakh cuisine in a culturally rich setting.
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.
Accommodation: Rixos Almaty Hotel
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Included Experiences
- “Golden Man” Experience at Issyk State Historical and Cultural Reserve Museum: Enjoy pre-opening access to the Issyk State Historical & Cultural Reserve Museum, including a curator-led talk on the famed Scythian “Golden Man” and the archaeology of the Issyk Valley.
- Huns Ethno Village Visit and Lunch: Transfer to Hunns Ethno Village to witness traditional demonstrations such as horse handling, nomadic crafts, and cultural customs that bring Kazakhstan’s heritage to life before a lunch with local cuisine in a yurt-style restaurant.
- Free Time in Almaty: During your free time, relax at your hotel or explore your surroundings.
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.
Accommodation: Crown Plaza Dushanbe
Included Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Included Experiences
- Plane: Look! Up in the sky! It's a bird! It's a plane! It's... yup, it is a plane, actually.
- Guided City Tour of Dushanbe: Visit the highlights of the capital city of Tajikistan on a guided tour, seeing the Somoniy Square, Navruz Palace and the main Mosque of Dushanbe.
- Traditional Tajik Welcome Dinner: Enjoy a warm culinary introduction to Tajik cuisine.
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.
Accommodation: Crown Plaza Dushanbe
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Included Experiences
- National Museum of Antiquities of Tajikistan: Connect with Tajikistan's unique history at the National Museum of Antiquities of Tajikistan. Join a local archeologist and learn about Buddhism in Central Asia.
- Historic Hissor Fortress & Madrasah: Visit the 2,500-year-old Hissor Fortress, once a strategic Silk Road stronghold, and explore its surrounding madrasah — a powerful window into Tajikistan’s ancient trade routes and defensive history.
- Local Family Visit & Cultural Experience: Step into the daily life of a Tajik craftsman family and discover local embroidery, watch traditional bread-making and Kurutoba preparation, and enjoy a home-cooked lunch for an intimate, immersive cultural experience.
- Free time in Dushanbe: Return to Dushanbe for free time to explore at your own pace.
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.
Accommodation: Lotte City Tashkent Palace Hotel
Included Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Included Experiences
- Plane: Look! Up in the sky! It's a bird! It's a plane! It's... yup, it is a plane, actually.
- Guided City Tour of Tashkent: Visit the city's highlights with a local guide. Ride the Russian-esque metro, visit the religious centre of the city and the famous Soviet Monuments. Wander the neighbourhood streets, learn about daily life, the Uzbek people and history of the city.
- Expert Wrap-Up & Farewell Dinner at the TV Tower: Conclude the journey with an evening cocktail, expert wrap-up presentation, and a farewell dinner at Koinot Restaurant atop the Tashkent TV Tower, offering panoramic city views.
Your expedition concludes today. Transfers are provided to the airport at any time during the day.
Included Meals: Breakfast
Included Experiences
- Departure Transfer: You will be met at your hotel and transferred to the airport at the end of your adventure.
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
- All transport between destinations and to/from included activities
- Private Vehicle, Metro, Plane, Walking
- National Geographic Expedition Leader and National Geographic Expedition Expert
- Hotels (8 Nights)
- 8 breakfasts, 4 lunches, 5 dinners
- 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
Our Price
US$5,599
Twin Share (Per Personpp)
Tuesday
27 Apr 2027
27 Apr 27
Bishkek
Wednesday
05 May 2027
05 May 27
Tashkent
Details
Definite Departure
Our Price
US$5,599
Twin Share (Per Personpp)
Tuesday
04 May 2027
04 May 27
Bishkek
Wednesday
12 May 2027
12 May 27
Tashkent
Details
Definite Departure
Our Price
US$5,999
Twin Share (Per Personpp)
Tuesday
11 May 2027
11 May 27
Bishkek
Wednesday
19 May 2027
19 May 27
Tashkent
Details
Definite Departure
Our Price
US$5,999
Twin Share (Per Personpp)
Tuesday
25 May 2027
25 May 27
Bishkek
Wednesday
02 Jun 2027
02 Jun 27
Tashkent
Details
Definite Departure
Our Price
US$5,999
Twin Share (Per Personpp)
Tuesday
08 Jun 2027
08 Jun 27
Bishkek
Wednesday
16 Jun 2027
16 Jun 27
Tashkent
Details
Definite Departure
Our Price
US$5,999
Twin Share (Per Personpp)
Tuesday
15 Jun 2027
15 Jun 27
Bishkek
Wednesday
23 Jun 2027
23 Jun 27
Tashkent
Details
Definite Departure
Our Price
US$5,999
Twin Share (Per Personpp)
Tuesday
10 Aug 2027
10 Aug 27
Bishkek
Wednesday
18 Aug 2027
18 Aug 27
Tashkent
Details
Definite Departure
Our Price
US$5,599
Twin Share (Per Personpp)
Tuesday
24 Aug 2027
24 Aug 27
Bishkek
Wednesday
01 Sep 2027
01 Sep 27
Tashkent
Details
Definite Departure
Our Price
US$5,599
Twin Share (Per Personpp)
Tuesday
07 Sep 2027
07 Sep 27
Bishkek
Wednesday
15 Sep 2027
15 Sep 27
Tashkent
Details
Definite Departure
Our Price
US$5,999
Twin Share (Per Personpp)
Tuesday
14 Sep 2027
14 Sep 27
Bishkek
Wednesday
22 Sep 2027
22 Sep 27
Tashkent
Details
Definite Departure
Our Price
US$5,999
Twin Share (Per Personpp)
Tuesday
28 Sep 2027
28 Sep 27
Bishkek
Wednesday
06 Oct 2027
06 Oct 27
Tashkent
Details
Definite Departure
Our Price
US$5,599
Twin Share (Per Personpp)
Tuesday
05 Oct 2027
05 Oct 27
Bishkek
Wednesday
13 Oct 2027
13 Oct 27
Tashkent
Details
Definite Departure
Our Price
US$5,599
Twin Share (Per Personpp)
Tuesday
19 Oct 2027
19 Oct 27
Bishkek
Wednesday
27 Oct 2027
27 Oct 27
Tashkent
Details
Definite Departure
Our Price
US$5,599
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.
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