Overview
Five countries, one legendary road, nineteen days to do it justice. From a crater that looks like the Earth forgot to turn off the stove, through Uzbekistan's tiled cities, Tajikistan's mountain lakes, Kyrgyzstan's nomadic valleys, and Kazakhstan's wild Charyn Canyon — this is Central Asia in full, gloriously unfiltered widescreen.
Trip Length
19 Days
Trip Starts
Ashgabat
Trip Ends
Almaty
Departures
May 2027 to Oct 2027
Countries Visited:
Trip Style
Classic
Budget
Affordable
Age Range
6-99 Years
Max. Group Size
16
Pace
Leisurely
Guide Style
Fully Guided
Tour Code
AZAA
Itinerary
Welcome to Turkmenistan, a land of striking contrasts and fascinating history! Take a moment to settle in, refresh, and soak in the unique energy of the city. This afternoon, embark on a guided tour of Ashgabat, where modern grandeur meets ancient heritage. Marvel at the city’s gleaming marble architecture, explore bustling markets, and glimpse iconic landmarks that reflect Turkmenistan’s rich culture and history. Consider this your introduction to the Silk Road’s enduring legacy and the adventures that lie ahead.
Please book any arriving flights to land by 1pm.
Please book any arriving flights to land by 1pm.
Accommodation:
Sport Hotel
Included Experiences
- Arrival Transfer: You will be met at the airport and transferred to the hotel to start your adventure.
- Welcome Moment - 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.
- Guided tour of Ashgabat: Enjoy a guided tour of Ashgabat, taking in the city’s highlights including Independence Park, the Neutrality Arch, Archabil Avenue, and a photo stop at the Ferris Wheel.
Optional Experiences
- Welcome Dinner: You've arrived! Why not share a meal and a drink with your new travel mates?
In the morning, explore Turkmenistan’s history at the National Museum, where fascinating exhibits showcase the country’s ancient civilizations, intricate art, and cultural treasures. Then, explore Old Nisa, a UNESCO World Heritage site and once a mighty Parthian city In the afternoon, journey across the Karakum Desert to the Darvaza Crater, the famous “Gates of Hell.” Settle into your yurt camp, enjoy dinner, and experience the crater’s fiery glow under the desert stars — a truly unforgettable sight.
Accommodation:
Darvaza Traditional Yurt Camp
Included Meals:
Breakfast, Dinner
Included Experiences
- Visit the National Museum: Visit the National Museum of Ashgabat for an introduction to Turkmenistan’s history, culture, and archaeological heritage.
- Ancient Settlement of Nisa: Pay a visit to the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Nisa. This ancient settlement was once the capital of the Parthian Empire from the 3rd century BCE to the 3rd century CE. Explore the ruins and learn about the history of this amazing place.
- 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.
- Mud Crater Visit: Visit the otherworldly mud crater just outside of Darvaza. About 30 meters deep, you'll see a beautiful turquoise pond at the bottom. Grab your camera and enjoy some time to visit this interesting place.
Set off for Dashoguz and explore the local museum, discovering the culture and stories of this desert region. In the afternoon, it’s time for a mini adventure — crossing the border into Uzbekistan! Feel the excitement of entering a new country as you drive toward Khiva, one of the Silk Road’s most enchanting cities.
Accommodation:
Twins Hotel
Included Meals:
Breakfast
Included Experiences
- Border Crossing (Turkmenistan to Uzbekistan): Cross the border on foot and enter Uzbekistan.
Step straight into a living museum with a guided tour of Khiva, where turquoise domes, towering minarets, and ancient city walls transport you back to Silk Road times. Wander through the UNESCO-listed old town, hearing stories of traders, rulers, and travellers who once passed through these very streets. In the afternoon, enjoy free time to explore at your own pace. Climb a minaret for sweeping views, browse local craft shops, or join an optional activity to dive even deeper into this captivating city.
Accommodation:
Twins Hotel
Included Meals:
Breakfast
Included Experiences
- Khiva Ancient City Exploration: Khiva feels like a museum city, with well-preserved city walls and ancient monuments. Wander the city on a guided tour, learn about life here and its important place in history.
- Free Time: Continue exploring this historic town.
Depart for your next Silk Road gem and board the train to Bukhara. Sit back and relax as the landscapes roll by — a classic overland journey connecting two historic cities. Upon arrival in Bukhara, settle in before heading out for a short orientation walk and debrief. Stretch your legs as you get your first taste of this atmospheric city, where ancient domes and winding lanes set the stage for tomorrow’s discoveries.
Accommodation:
Hotel As-Salam
Included Meals:
Breakfast
Included Experiences
- Train: Climb aboard, take a seat, and enjoy the ride.
- Bukhara Orientation Walk: Explore the neighborhood of Bukhara alongside your group to get a lay of the land.
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 join a traditional cooking class, or indulge in a rejuvenating hammam bathhouse.
Accommodation:
Hotel As-Salam
Included Meals:
Breakfast
Included Experiences
- Bukhara City Guided Tour: Join a local guide to visit the the Samanid Mausoleum, the Ark Citadel, and the Poi-i-Kalon complex. Wander around beautifully restored mosques, madrassas, and covered markets that make up the Old City.
Optional Experiences
- Bukhara Hammam Visit: 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.
- Uzbek Cooking Class: Get to know Uzbek cuisine better at a local cooking class. Make delicious local dishes like Uzbek Shakarob Salad & colored Dumpling, using natural vegetable juice to give the food color.
Spend the morning soaking up more of Bukhara’s magic. Wander at your own pace or join an optional tour through the old alleys, stepping inside traditional workshops to see local artisans at work. Later, head to the train station and board the train to Samarkand, another legendary Silk Road city. On arrival, check in to your hotel before heading out on an orientation walk to get your bearings.
Accommodation:
Hotel Shahriston Samarkand
Included Meals:
Breakfast
Included Experiences
- Free Time: Spend a half day of free time wandering and get to know the city.
- Train: Climb aboard, take a seat, and enjoy the ride.
Optional Experiences
- Uzbek Cooking Class: Get to know Uzbek cuisine better at a local cooking class. Make delicious local dishes like Uzbek Shakarob Salad & colored Dumpling, using natural vegetable juice to give the food color.
Embark on a city tour of Samarkand, visiting Shaki Zinda complex, the bazaar, Bibi Khanum, and Registan Square. We'll also visit the famed Amir Timur Mausoleum, dedicated to the famous conqueror who once hoped to rebuild the empire of Genghis Khan. Spend the afternoon exploring the vibrant Siyob Bazaar, where colourful stalls overflow with fresh produce, spices, and local treats.
Accommodation:
Hotel Shahriston Samarkand
Included Meals:
Breakfast
Included Experiences
- Samarkand City Tour: Visit the important sights of the city with a local guide. See the Shaki Zinda complex, Samarkand bazaar, Bibi Khanum, and Registan Square.
This morning, depart for the border and cross into Tajikistan, where a new chapter of the Silk Road unfolds. Continue on to Panjakent, stopping for a quick visit to the local market to pick up some fresh snacks for the journey ahead. Travel onward to Padrud Village, pausing along the way to admire the shimmering beauty of the famed Four Lakes, each one a different shade of blue and green.
Upon arrival, check in to your guesthouse and explore the village on foot, enjoying a short hike through the surrounding landscapes. End the day with a home-cooked dinner at the guesthouse, soaking in the peaceful mountain atmosphere.
Accommodation:
Tajikistan Guest House
Included Meals:
Breakfast, Dinner
Included Experiences
- Border Crossing (Uzbekistan to Tajikstan): Ready for a little more ink in your passport? Grab your bags and get ready to check another country off your bucket list.
- Marguzor Lakes: Visit 4 of the 7 lakes of Marguzor and admire the stunning natural beauty of Tajikistan.
Lace up your boots for an optional hike to the sixth and seventh lakes, where dramatic mountain scenery and crystal-clear waters reward your efforts. After soaking in the views, retrace your route to the border, cross back into Uzbekistan, and continue to Samarkand. From there, board the high-speed train to Tashkent, watching the countryside blur past as you travel in comfort. Arrive in Tashkent in the evening, ready to experience Uzbekistan’s dynamic capital.
Accommodation:
Avant Hotel
Included Meals:
Breakfast
Included Experiences
- Border Crossing (Tajikstan to Uzbekistan): Cross the border on foot and enter Uzbekistan.
- Train: Climb aboard, take a seat, and enjoy the ride.
Optional Experiences
- Hike Marguzor Lakes 6 & 7: Start at Lake 6 and hike to the majestic lake 7 of the 7 Marguzor Lakes. Lake 7, arguably the most beautiful is reached only on foot. With nothing but rocky mountains and crystal blue water in sight, admire the incredible scenery of Tajikistan.
Dive into Uzbekistan’s vibrant capital with a half-day guided tour of Tashkent. Explore the lively Chorsu Bazaar, stroll through grand Independence Square, and descend into the beautifully decorated stations of the iconic Tashkent Metro — each one a work of art in its own right. The rest of the day is yours to enjoy. Wander leafy boulevards, relax in a café, or continue exploring this dynamic city at your own pace.
Accommodation:
Avant Hotel
Included Meals:
Breakfast
Included Experiences
- Guided tour of Tashkent: Embark on a half-day guided adventure through Tashkent’s vibrant heart—explore the bustling Chorsu Bazaar, soak in the history at Amir Temur Square, and dive underground to discover the stunning art of the Tashkent Metro.
- Free Time: Enjoy free time to explore Uzbekistan's capital city.
Enjoy a leisurely half-day to relax, shop, or explore Tashkent at your own pace before making your way to the airport for your flight to Bishkek. On arrival in Kyrgyzstan’s capital, check in to your hotel and settle in, ready to unwind or start discovering the city at your own pace.
Accommodation:
My Hotel Bishkek
Included Meals:
Breakfast
Included Experiences
- Free Time: Enjoy free time in the morning before you say goodbye to Tashkent.
- Plane: Look! Up in the sky! It's a bird! It's a plane! It's... yup, it is a plane, actually.
Start the day with a visit to Ala-Too Square, the heart of Bishkek, and take in the surrounding landmarks. Continue to Osh Bazaar, a lively market where colorful spices, fresh produce, and local crafts offer a true taste of daily life in Bishkek. Next, visit Victory Square and the WWII Memorial, reflecting the country’s history and resilience. The afternoon is free to explore the city, visit local cafés and simply enjoy the rhythm of Bishkek at your own pace.
Accommodation:
My Hotel Bishkek
Included Meals:
Breakfast
Included Experiences
- City Tour: Check out some of the main highlights of this Soviet-esque capital city. Learn about the history of the city and daily life.
- Free Time: Enjoy a free afternoon to explore Bishkek at your own pace.
Depart Bishkek and journey to the historic Burana Tower, exploring the ancient minaret and the surrounding open-air balbal stones, remnants of centuries-old nomadic culture. Continue to your yurt camp, where the afternoon is yours to settle in and take in the views. In the evening, enjoy an included dinner featuring traditional Kyrgyz dishes.
Accommodation:
Yurt Camp Jaichy
Included Meals:
Breakfast, Dinner
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.
After breakfast, enjoy a guided hike, reaching a stunning viewpoint over the surrounding valley. Take in the sweeping landscapes before returning to the yurt camp. Enjoy lunch at the camp, then spend the afternoon learning about the nomadic lifestyle and trying your hand at traditional games. In the evening, dive into Kyrgyz culture with a hands-on cooking experience, preparing Oromo and baursak before enjoying them for dinner under the stars.
Accommodation:
Yurt Camp Jaichy
Included Meals:
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Included Experiences
- Hike through the Jaichy region: Enjoy a guided hike in the Jaichy region, culminating at a panoramic viewpoint above the valley.
- Hands-On Kyrgyz Cooking Experience: Enjoy dinner featuring a hands-on experience preparing traditional Kyrgyz dishes, including oromo and baursak.
Depart for the striking Fairytale Canyon, where jagged rock formations and colorful cliffs make for a landscape straight out of a storybook. Spend time exploring the canyon, taking in the dramatic scenery and snapping photos along the way. Continue to Barskoon Village to learn about local sustainable initiatives and even participate in yurt building, providing a hands-on glimpse into Kyrgyz traditions. Stop for lunch before driving to Karakol, where you’ll check in to your hotel. The rest of the day is free to relax or explore the town at your own pace.
Accommodation:
Green Yard Hospitality Hotel
Included Meals:
Breakfast, Lunch
Included Experiences
- Skazka "Fairytale" Canyon: On the Southern Shore of Lake Issyk Kul, visit the breathtaking Skazka Canyon, also known as the Fairytale Canyon. It's nickname speaks for itself, with natural rock formations that tower like princess castles in faraway lands.
- Ak-Orgo Visit and Yurt Building Experience: 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, then take part in constructing one yourself. Afterwards, enjoy an included lunch at the village.
- Free Time: Enjoy free time to explore Karakol at leisure.
Depart Karakol and journey to the border, where you’ll cross into Kazakhstan on foot, a small adventure marking your entry into a new country. On the Kazakh side, meet your vehicle and continue toward Charyn Canyon. Take time to explore the dramatic landscapes of Charyn Canyon, often called the “Grand Canyon of Central Asia,” before continuing on to Almaty. Check in to your hotel upon arrival and enjoy the rest of the day at leisure to relax or unwind after your journey.
Accommodation:
Almaty Hotel
Included Meals:
Breakfast
Included Experiences
- Kyrgyzstan - Kazakhstan Border Crossing: Ready for a little more ink in your passport? Grab your bags and get ready to check another country off your bucket list.
- Charyn Canyon Visit: Enjoy the views of the beautiful Charyn Canyon. Breathe the fresh air and snap a few photos of this stunning landscape.
- Free Time: Enjoy free time in the evening to explore Almaty at your leisure.
Start the morning with a visit to Panfilov Park, home to the colorful Zenkov Cathedral, before strolling through the park and soaking in the city’s history. Next, head to the Green Bazaar for a guided walk through bustling stalls overflowing with fresh produce, spices, and local treats — a true taste of daily life in Almaty. The afternoon is free to explore Almaty at your own pace and enjoy the city's unique atmosphere.
Accommodation:
Almaty Hotel
Included Meals:
Breakfast
Included Experiences
- Zenkov Cathedral: Constructed entirely of wood, this cathedral is a lasting remnant from the early twentieth century. Built without the use of any nails, this cathedral survived an earthquake in 1911 and continues to stand today. Located in a park, enjoy the colourful design from afar, or visit the cathedral itself to observe its stunning interior artwork.
- Zelyony Bazaar: 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.
- Free Time: Enjoy the afternoon free to explore Almaty.
Enjoy your final moments before departing at any time.
Included Meals:
Breakfast
Trip Inclusions
- Cross five countries on the road that once connected the whole world.
- Spend the night beside the Darvaza Crater — aka the actual Door to Hell.
- Lose yourself in the tiled cities of Khiva.
- Bukhara, and Samarkand.
- Sleep under open skies in a yurt and wake up feeling like a nomad.
- Hike Seven Lakes.
- Explore Fairytale Canyon, and conquer Charyn Canyon.
- Your G for Good Moment: Ak-Orgo Visit and Yurt Building Experience, Barskoon
- Your Welcome Moment: Meet Your CEO and Group, Ashgabat
- Arrival transfer
- Guided tour of Ashgabat
- Visit to National Museum
- Visit Old Nisa
- Guided tour of Khiva
- Free time in Khiva
- Train to Bukhara
- Guided tour of Bukhara
- Free time in Bukhara
- Explore Siyab bazaar
- Visit of Panjakent Market
- Visit to the Seven Lakes area
- Train to Samarkand
- Guided tour of Samarkand
- Free time in Samarkand
- Train to Tashkent
- Free time in Tashkent
- Guided tour of Tashkent
- Internal flight to Bishkek
- Guided tour of Bishkek
- Free time in Bishkek
- Included traditional dinner
- Lunch in yurt camp
- Hands-on Kyrgyz traditional dish preparation
- Lunch at Ak Orgoo
- Free time in Karakol
- Visit to Charyn Canyon
- Free time in Almaty
- Visit Osh Bazaar
- Visit Victory Square & WWII Memorial
- Visit Burana Tower
- Guided hike in Kek Sai
- Visit to Skazka Canyon
- Visit to Barksoon Village with yurt building experience
- Overnight in a yurt
- Visit Panfilov Park & Zenkov Cathedral
- Visit Green Bazaar
- All transport between destinations and to/from included activities
- Private vehicles, train, walking, plane
- CEO (Chief Experience Officer) throughout
- Hotels/guesthouses (15 Nights), Yurts (3 Nights)
- Please Note That There Will Be Shared Bathroom Facilities When Staying In The Yurts
- 18 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 4 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: Classic
Get the best of both worlds with G's Classic trips as your knowledgeable CEO (Chief Experience Officer) leads you to iconic highlights and hidden gems, while ample free time lets you discover what excites you most. Enjoy included meals showcasing local flavours, plus opportunities to dive deeper into the food scene independently. Stay in comfortable hotels, authentic homestays, and unique accommodations that capture the spirit of each destination.
Dates & Pricing
AUD
Saturday
26 Sep 2026
26 Sep 26
Ashgabat
Wednesday
14 Oct 2026
14 Oct 26
Almaty
Details
Definite Departure
Our Price
A$6,019
Twin Share (Per Personpp)
Sold Out
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 Enquire. 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 Enquire. 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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