Almaty

Arrival in Kazakhstan’s south capital city Almaty. You ’ll be met at the airport and transported to a hotel. Free time for rest. Next morning, we’re starting our breathtaking journey of Central Asia! We’ll see you tomorrow!

Almaty

In the morning, after breakfast, we are diving into an exploration of Almaty straight away. Places that we’ll visit today include:

Park Named After Panfilov’s 28 Guardsmen

Panfilov Park (the oldest park in Almaty): Zenkov cathedral; eternal fire; Second World War monuments

Zeleny Bazar

Green Bazaar (traditional market): local shopping; dried fruits; souvenirs

Republic Square

Republic Square: national monuments; city administration

Park Kok Tobe

The legendary hotel Kazakhstan: first tallest building in Central Asia Kok Tobe (Green Hill from Kazakh language): recreation area located on a hilltop; cable car ride; Almaty city panoramic viewpoint Opera and Ballet theatre: old Soviet architecture Panfilov alley: cultural life of Almaty; restaurants / architechture After this lovely Almaty excursion you ’ll have your personal free time. Enjoy your evening! Tomorrow we’re heading into regions...

Charyn Canyon

In the morning, after breakfast, we’re hitting the road and making our way towards the famous Charyn canyon - often called the Grand Canyon's little brother (3 hours). Upon arrival, we’re having a beautiful time for Charyn’s exploration: hiking and taking pictures. Lunch in a cafe.

Kolsai Lake

Next, we’re moving on and heading towards the enchanting Kolsay lakes (2 hours) that are also referred to as the "Pearls of the Tien Shan” . Hidden among the conifer forests and tall peaks of the Tien Shan mountains, these small alpine lakes are located in the southeastern part of Kazakhstan, along the border with Kyrgyzstan. Upon arrival in Saty village, we’re checking in to a guesthouse. 10 minute drive to the first lake: walking around and enjoying the crispy alpine air. Personal free time. Dinner. Tomorrow we’re delving deep into exploring Kolsay and another hidden gem - Kaindy lake.

Lake Kaindy

In the morning, after breakfast, we’re taking the old Soviet trucks UAZ and driving shortly (12km) to explore the magical turquoise lake Kaindy (the famous lake with spruce trees sticking out of water). This picturesque alpine lake emerged as the result of a massive landslide in the area caused by the devastating “Kemin earthquake” in 1911. Free time for enjoying this fascinating place. Return to the village for lunch.

Kolsai Lake

Next, we’re coming back to Kolsay lake for a more detailed exploration: walking through the forest terrain and on to a panoramic viewpoint. Free time for contemplating the views and taking some nice photographs. Boat riding available in summer (optional). Return to the hotel. Personal free time for rest. Dinner.

Kegen

Today is a very exciting day, since for the first time of our journey, we’re switching countries and starting our next adventure in Kyrgyzstan. In the morning, after breakfast, we’re heading through the atmospheric, desert-like scenery towards the remote land border between Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan (3 hours). Saying goodbye and thank you to Kazakhstan, and passing through “Kegen” border control.

Karakol

As soon as we happen on the other side, in Kyrgyzstan, we’re driving to the nearest big town Karakol (3 hours). Lunch on the way. Karakol is a “touristic-hub” town located in the eastern part of Kyrgyzstan, about 400km away from its capital city of Bishkek. It is located between the north and south shores of the second largest alpine lake of the world Issyk Kul and is a home to some of the best mountain trekking routes of Central Asia. Reaching Karakol late afternoon. Check in to a hotel. Personal free time for rest. In the evening, our group can opt to drive shortly outside of Karakol to the natural hot spring pools Ak Suu for a bit of soaking up (optional). Dinner.

Jeti-Oguz Canyon (Seven Bulls Rocks)

In the morning, after breakfast, we’re heading to the best ski resort of Kyrgyzstan. In winter you would have a beautiful skiing experience here but in summer you will enjoy no less stunning views of the whole Issyk Kul region. Lush green meadows, vast conifer forests, snow capped mountain peaks, glaciers, and the entire lake in the background - it’s all about this Ski resort. The chair lift will take us up to the height of 3040 meters above sea level. Walking on the plateau and enjoying the views. Return back to Karakol. Short city excursion: Old Orthodox Church 1895; Dungan Mosque 1910. Visiting a local hand-made souvenir shop (optional). Lunch in a restaurant. Next, we’re heading to Jeti Oguz valley (Seven Bulls), famous for its red rock formations. Driving deep into the valley through several river bridges we’re arriving at “jailoo” (alpine pasture). Here, we’re going to embark on a beautiful walk uphill to the hidden “Maiden Braids” waterfall.

Karakol

Return back to Karakol. Personal free time for rest. Dinner in a restaurant.

Barskoon Gorge

In the morning, after breakfast, we’re resuming our way along the south coast of Issyk Kul lake. Visiting the picturesque Barskoon valley: here we are going to explore its 3 waterfalls and have an epic drive up to “Arabel” mountain pass (3800 meters). Lunch.

Canyon Skazka

Moving on and visiting the fascinating Skazka (Fairy Tale) canyon for an easy but charming walk. This canyon got its name because of all the fancy claystone formations here, which have been moulded by winds and rains for ages. Explore the fairy tale “Castles” , the “Chinese Wall” and various animals’ silhouettes.

Kaji-Say

Resuming the road and driving shortly to Kaji Say village. Check in to a guesthouse. Personal free time for rest: going to the beach of Issyk Kul lake at sunset. Dinner at the hotel.

In the morning, after breakfast, we’re hitting the road and driving to the nearby village of Bokonbaevo. Stocking up on some food for the loveliest picnic ahead. Next, we’re visiting a neighboring village Ak Sai. Here, we’re meeting a local “Berkutchi” (eagle man) and it is the time for a fascinating experience: Kyrgyz Eagle Hunting - is a traditional form of falconry which dates back for thousands of years. In a nutshell, it involves the use of trained golden eagles to hunt small prey (we use only artificial animal carcasses during the hunts). You will learn all key facts about these majestic birds and by the end of the process everyone will participate in the national archery. Next, we’re driving towards the adjacent Ak Say canyons (also Canyon of Forgotten Rivers). A beautiful, light hike up the canyon to its panoramic spot (1 hour both ways). Afterwards, it’s time for a delicious picnic in paradise: eating, swimming and relaxing on the wild beach of Issyk Kul lake.

Son Kul Lake

Now it’s time to say goodbye to this fairy region of Issyk Kul and move on towards Naryn region for some new adventures. Passing by Orto Tokoi water reservoir on the way. Driving up some scenic mountain passes and we’re arriving at Son Kol lake. Check-in to a first yurt camp on our journey. Personal free time to enjoy sunset time. Here at Son Kol it feels like the edge of the world. Dinner.

Son Kul Lake

Today, we’re spending half of the day exploring the charming Son Kol lake. Breakfast at the yurt camp. Horseback riding time on the vast green meadows. Free time for walking around and contemplating the lake. Lunch at the camp.

Naryn

Next, we’re heading towards Naryn town. Driving down the picturesque “33 parrots” mountain pass (2,5 hours). Stopping by a lovely waterfall on the way (15 minute walk). Arrival in Naryn and check-in to a hotel. Free time for rest. Dinner in a restaurant.

Kel-Suu Lake

In the morning, after breakfast, we’re heading to the place that will definitely end up in your TOP 5 spots of the world - and that is the magnificent Kel Suu lake. It is located in one of the remotest areas of Kyrgyzstan, some mountain passes away from China, and therefore, driving to Kel Suu will be some absolute scenes! Passing through border checkpoints with special permits. After a beautiful 3 hour off-road drive we’re arriving at Kel Suu base camp. Check-in to a guesthouse (wooden shacks). Lunch. Next, we’re embarking on the most scenic horseback voyage to the lake itself (5km or 1,5 hours one way). Reaching Kel Suu: personal free time for enjoying this magical place. Optional activity: motorboat ride on the lake. Return back to the camp on horses. Dinner. Bonfire time under the starry sky…

Kochkor

In the morning, after breakfast, we have some more free time to walk around and enjoy the landscapes of Kel Suu. Next, we’re driving back to Naryn. Lunch in a restaurant. Moving on and heading to a small town Kochkor (1,5 hours). Check-in to a hotel. Free time for rest. Dinner and overnight.

Burana Tower

In the morning, after breakfast, we’re visiting a local Kyrgyz carpet craft shop. This unique national shop is powered by the region’s women community and has a lot of valuable items to offer: from the national felt carpets and wool shawls to souvenirs and antiques. Here, we’ll have an opportunity to participate in the process of making a felt carpet “shyrdak” ourselves. Next, we’re heading to the capital city of Kyrgyzstan - Bishkek (2,5 hours). Visiting a historical landmark Burana Tower on the way (11th century).

Bishkek

Check-in to a hotel in Bishkek. Personal free time for walking in the city 's central area. Tomorrow, we're delving deep into an exploration of Bishkek!

Victory Square

In the morning, we’re starting our beautiful city excursion of Bishkek. Places we’ll visit today: Victory square: Second World War monuments and eternal fire

Ala-Too Square

Kyrgyz National Opera and Ballet theater: beautiful Soviet architecture Oak park: open air art gallery Ala Too Square: the main square of the city; biggest flagpole with guards of honor; Manas monument; History museum; White House

Old Railway station “Erkindik” or “Freedom” boulevard

Osh Bazaar

Kyrgyz State Philharmonic square: Mayor’s office, International University The legendary Osh bazaar (traditional open air market)

Tashkent

Afterwards, we're heading to the capital city of Uzbekistan - Tashkent. Upon arrival, we’ll be transported to a hotel. Free time for rest.

Barak-Khan Madrassah

Today, we’re exploring Tashkent. Our excursion begins with a visit to the enchanting Old Tashkent. Step back in time as you admire architectural gems like: Barak-Khan Madrasah and Tillya Sheikh Mosque in Hast Imam Square

Chorsu Bazaar Tashkent

The Library of Eastern Manuscripts - home to centuries-old texts Chorsu Bazaar Afterwards, we'll hop on the metro for a journey into the modern heart of the city:

Amir Timur Museum

Monument of Courage Independence Square Residence of Romanov: the exiled grandson of the Russian Emperor Nikolai I Opera and Ballet theater Amir Timur Square: named after the legendary conqueror Personal free time in the evening.

Dushanbe

In the morning, we're heading from Tashkent to Dushanbe, the capital city of Tajikistan. We'll come back to Uzbekistan in a few days to continue its exploration from Samarkand. Arrival in Dushanbe and start of the city excursion:

Navruz Palace

Museum of antiquities: Buddha in Nirvana position Navruz palace Exploring the main square: Monument Somoni, park Rudaki, National library, President palace, Flag park

Hisor Fortress

Check-in to a hotel. Late afternoon visit to a historical landmark - Hissar fortress (30km outside of the city). Return to Dushanbe. Personal free time in the evening.

In the morning, we're leaving Dushanbe and heading to the renowned lakes of Fan mountains – Iskandarkul (130km). Enjoying the place and embarking on a light hike to the “Fan Niagara” waterfall. Lunch. Afterwards, we're driving to Gazza village, situated 1700m above sea level, with a population of about 200 people. Meeting locals and finding out how Tajik people live in mountainous areas. Next, we're going to another alpine village of Bory, situated 1900m above sea level, with a population of about 1000 people living in 120 houses. Check-in to a guesthouse. Dinner and free time.

Marguzor

In the morning, after breakfast, we're heading to the majestic Marguzor lakes (70km). Exploring the 7 lakes of Marguzor. Lunch.

Panjakent

Afterwards, we’re driving to Penjikent town. Check- in to a hotel. Quick acquaintance with the town and dinner at the national teahouse ‘Sayohat’ . Personal free time.

Samarkand

Today, we're coming back to Uzbekistan via land border and continuing its exploration from Samarkand city. In the morning, we're heading towards the Tajik-Uzbek border, crossing it and driving to Samarkand (60km). Immersing into Samarkand’s heritage straight away:

Registan

Gur-Emir mausoleum and tombs of Timurid dynasty Registan Square - the heart of Samarkand Siyab bazaar (open air market) Lunch break at a national restaurant: tasting the legendary Samarkand Plov. Continuing our city excursion:

Bibi Khanym Mosque

Bibi-Khanym Palace (15th century) Ulugbek Observatory: famous astronomer and grandson of Tamerlane Shahi – Zinda architectural complex Check-in to a hotel. Personal free time. Enjoy your evening!

Bukhara

In the morning, after breakfast, we’re heading from Samarkand to Bukhara (2 hours). Upon arrival, we’re starting our city excursion of Bukhara:

Chor Minor Madrasah

Visiting Kalyan minaret (also known as the Tower of Death) Chor Minor: "Four Minarets" in Farsi language Lyabi Hauz area Lunch break in a national restaurant. Continuation of Bukhara’s excursion:

Lyab-i-Hauz

Ark citadel (massive fortress) Trading domes of Bukhara Check-in to a hotel. Personal free time in the evening.

Khiva

Today, we’re having a pretty long drive from Bukhara to Khiva (440km), since that’s one of the only ways to get there. Lunch break on the way. Check-in to a hotel upon arrival in Khiva. Free time for rest and walking in the evening. Tomorrow, we’re exploring Khiva in details.

Ota Darvoza

Today is dedicated for getting acquainted with Khiva. Starting off from: Ota Darvoza (West gate): the main entrance to Itchan Kala

Citadel Kunya-ark

Kunya-Ark Fortress: the former residence of Khiva’s rulers Mohammed Amin Khan Madrasah: featuring a museum inside Kalta Minor Minaret Lunch at a local restaurant. Resuming our excursion:

Islam Khodja Complex

Juma Mosque: unique wooden columns and a roof that dates back to the 10th century Islam Khodja complex: includes the highest minaret in Khiva Tosh Hovli Palace: known for its intricate tile work and beautiful courtyards Pahlavon Mahmud Mausoleum: dedicated to the legendary poet, philosopher, and wrestler End of the city excursion. Later on, you can spend the evening relaxing on your own. (Watch the sunset from the top of the Itchan Kala Walls - dinner with a view).

Darvaza Gas Crater

Today, we’re beginning the next exciting chapter of our journey - we’re entering Turkmenistan! In the morning, after breakfast, we’re heading to the border point “Dashoguz ” (1 hour from Khiva). Crossing the border control and receiving our Turkmen visas. Driving through the legendary desert landscapes of Turkmenistan (5 hours) towards its most renowned landmark Darvaza - a natural burning gas crater (often called as “Gates of Hell”). Lunch on the way. Arrival at Darvaza and check-in to a yurt camp. Free time for watching the burning crater itself: taking photos and enjoying the otherworldly vibe of the place at sunset. Dinner at the camp. Overnight in yurts.

Ashgabat

In the morning, after sunrise, we have some more free time to enjoy the scenes of Darvaza. Setting off for the capital of Turkmenistan - the white city of Ashgabat (3 hours). Lunch on the way. Check-in to a hotel upon arrival. Group walk in the evening Ashgabat. Dinner at a restaurant. Tomorrow, we’re exploring Ashgabat in details.

Wedding Palace

Today, we’re having a complete introduction to Ashgabat. Starting off our city excursion: Independence Park Turkmenistan National Museum: history and heritage Arch of Neutrality: golden statue of the country ’s first president Wedding Palace: giant cube with a ball atop Lunch in a national restaurant. Continuation of our excursion:

Ertugrul Gazi Mosque

Earthquake Memorial and Museum Health Path: a popular leisure spot for locals Ertugrul Gazi Mosque Return to the hotel. Free time for rest. Evening group walk and dinner in a restaurant.

Mary

In the morning, after breakfast, we’re heading to the historical town of Mary (3 hours). Arrival and a short excursion of Mary. Lunch in a restaurant.

Merv

Next, we are driving shortly (30 minutes) to the ancient historical landmark Merv (dates back at least to the 6th century BCE). It was an important center of the Great Silk Road, serving as a major hub for trade and culture between China, Central Asia, and the Middle East. Walking around the area and exploring numerous remains of ancient structures like: city walls, palaces, mosques, mausoleums, and fortresses. Return to Mary. Check-in to a hotel. Free time for rest. Dinner in a restaurant.

Ashgabat

In the morning, after breakfast, we have some free time to explore the local bazaar (open air market) in Mary. Afterwards, we’re heading back to Ashgabat. Lunch on the way. Arrival in the capital and check-in to the hotel. Free time for rest. Evening group walk and a farewell dinner in a restaurant. Next morning, you ’ll be transported to Ashgabat airport to catch your flight back home: daily direct departures to Istanbul and Dubai (check schedule for direct flights to Kuala Lumpur, Seoul, London, Frankfurt, Milan, Abu Dhabi).