26 Day The Five Stans of the Silk Road

Fully Guided Adventure Small Group Off The Beaten Track

Our Price From 7,202 Per Person

Exclusive Savings 163 Per Person

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Trip Length

26 Days

Trip Starts

Bishkek

Trip Finishes

Ashgabat

26 Day The Five Stans of the Silk Road Itinerary (G Adventures)

Countries Explored: Kyrgyzstan, Kazakhstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan

Trip Operator

G Adventures

102 Reviews

Trip Style

Classic

Departures

Jun 2025 to Sep 2026

Budget

Affordable

Max. Group Size

Pace

Moderate

Guide Level

Fully Guided

Trip Code

AYBA

Overview

Book online and enjoy exclusive savings on G Adventures 26 Day The Five Stans of the Silk Road. 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.

Itinerary

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! Stay: Grand Hotel Bishkek

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. Stay: Kemin Guesthouse (B/D)

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. Stay: Yurts Song Kul (B/L/D)

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. Stay: Anyutaika Guesthouse (B/L/D)

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. Stay: Caravan Hotel Karakol (B/L)

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 reach a stunning view point overlooking the flower-filled valley. Return to Karakol and have a free afternoon to explore. In the evening enjoy dinner with local family Stay: Caravan Hotel Karakol (B/D)

Cross the border into Kazakhstan on the journey to Saty Village, part of the Kolsay Lakes National Park. On arrival, jump in a Russian 4x4 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. Stay: Saty Village Guesthouse (B/D)

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. Stay: Hotel KAZZHOL Almaty (B)

There may be more travellers joining the group here. Opt to attend an evening welcome meeting to get to know them. Stay: Atlas Hotel (B)

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. Stay: Homestay Ghazza village (B/D)

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. Stay: Homestay Ghazza village (B/L/D)

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. Stay: Sugdiyon Hotel (B)

Some travellers will be joining the group here as they start their journey into Uzbekistan. Stay: Alpha Plaza Hotel and SPA (B)

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. Stay: Alpha Plaza Hotel and SPA (B)

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. Stay: Zarina Hotel (B)

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. Stay: Zarina Hotel (B)

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. Stay: Yurt Camp Stay Aidarkul (B/D)

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. Stay: Hotel As-Salam (B)

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. Stay: Hotel As-Salam (B)

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. Stay: Hotel Muso To'ra (B)

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. Stay: Hotel Muso To'ra (B)

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. Stay: Hotel Dashoguz (B)

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. Stay: Darwaza Camping (B/L/D)

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. Stay: Ak Altyn Hotel (B)

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. Stay: Ak Altyn Hotel (B)

Depart at any time. Departure transfer is included. (B)

Trip Inclusions

Embark on the ultimate road trip across 5 countries in central Asia.
Browse the stalls of markets and local shops.
Stay overnight in traditional yurts and camps.
Camp under the stars near the Darvaza crater and witness the Gates of Hell.
Traverse mountains–forests and desert.

Your G for Good Moment: Yurt Building Demonstration, Barskoon
Your Welcome Moment: Welcome Moment - 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
Departure Transfer

Standard hotels (20 nts twin share), yurts (3 nts multishare up to 4 people per yurt), homestay (2 nt multishare)
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.

CEO (Chief Experience Officer) throughout

25 breakfasts, 5 lunches, 9 dinners

Private vehicles, 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

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G Adventures Earth (2023-24)

We’ve been the leaders in small-group adventure travel since 1990. How’d we get here? By listening to our travellers and giving them what they want: flexible itineraries, freedom to explore, smaller groups, safety and peace of mind, and locally based guides who show you your destination in a way you’d miss travelling any other way. Check out how we’re l...more

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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. We guarantee the lowest price in Australia. T&C’s apply.

The Five Stans of the Silk Road

Overview

Itinerary Expand All

Day 1: Bishkek

Day 2: Bishkek - Chong-Kemin

Day 3: Chong-Kemin - Song Kul

Day 4: Song Kul - Tamga

Day 5: Tamga - Karakol

Day 6: Karakol

Day 7: Karakol - Saty Village

Day 8: Saty Village - Almaty

Day 9: Almaty - Dushanbe

Day 10: Dushanbe - Kuli Iskandarkul - Gazza Village

Day 11: Gazza Village

Day 12: Gazza Village to Khujand

Day 13: Khujand - Tashkent

Day 14: Tashkent

Day 15: Tashkent - Samarkand

Day 16: Samarkand

Day 17: Samarkand - Aydar Kŭl Camp

Day 18: Aydar Kŭl Camp - Bukhara

Day 19: Bukhara

Day 20: Bukhara - Khiva

Day 21: Khiva

Day 22: Khiva - Dashoguz

Day 23: Dashoguz - Darvaza

Day 24: Darvaza - Ashgabat

Day 25: Ashgabat

Day 26: Ashgabat

Trip Inclusions Expand All

Journey Highlights

Trip Inclusions

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Brochure

G Adventures Earth (2023-24)

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