Ultimate 5 Stans

Today, depart for Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan. Fly with award winning Emirates to Dubai and then their partner airline, FlyDubai, for the 4-hour flight to Bishkek.

Please note:
• Due to the limited flight options between Sydney, Melbourne or Perth and Kyrgyzstan, customers departing Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane or Perth will have a long layover in Dubai during the day/early evening of up to 8.5 hours. Lounge passes will not be provided, and you are welcome to use this opportunity to leave the airport and explore a bit of Dubai.
• Due to the limited flight options between Auckland or Adelaide and Kyrgyzstan, customers departing Auckland or Adelaide will have a long layover in Dubai of up to 18 hours, and a complimentary day use hotel will be provided for this layover.

Meals included: In-Flight

Early this morning you'll arrive into Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan. Here you will be met and transferred to your hotel accommodation where an early check in will be provided so you may rest after your flight.

The remainder of the day will be at leisure. Bishkek is the largest city in Kyrgyzstan, as well as the modern cultural, political and economic centre of the republic. It is a calm city with wide streets and beautiful houses. A huge number of parks makes the air unusually fresh and clean. It is generally accepted that there are more trees for each resident than in any other city in Central Asia.

This evening, enjoy a welcome dinner and traditional folk show to meet your travel companions.

Overnight: Hotel Garden or similar, Bishkek

Meals included: Breakfast; Dinner

Step back in time as you explore Bishkek, a city where echoes of the past meet the vibrancy of the present.

Your journey begins at the majestic Ala-Too Square, the heart of the capital. Here, witness the captivating changing of the Guard of Honor, a ceremonial display of national pride. Discover the larger-than-life Manas Monument, a tribute to Kyrgyzstan's legendary hero, before seeing the Independence Monument and other historic government buildings. Stroll to Old Square, where you'll be transported to the Soviet era as you stand before the Lenin Monument. The tour concludes with a deeper dive into the nation's past at the Museum of History, followed by a poignant visit to Victory Square to honour those who shaped this country's destiny.

Overnight: Hotel Garden or similar, Bishkek

Meals included: Breakfast

Today, travel approximately 300 kilometres to Bokonbaevo. On the way stop at Burana Tower, an 11th-century minaret built by the Turkish Karakhanids dynasty. Nowadays it’s a museum complex which includes the tower itself, reconstructions of mausoleums found onsite, remains of the citadel, a collection of balbals (grave stones used by nomadic Turkic peoples) and more.

Head to the Southern shore of Issyk-Kul Lake, one of the largest mountain lakes in the world. Located in the Northern Tien Shan at an altitude of 1608 metres, the Lake has long been attractive for its climatic conditions, unique beauty, healing mineralised lake water and numerous hot springs.

Enjoy a stop to witness an eagle hunting demonstration where you will learn more about the tradition of eagle hunting and its history.

Tonight, arrive at a semi-nomadic yurt camp where you can take part in a baking class to make famous Kyrgyz flat bread before a traditional dinner. Enjoy sleeping overnight in a traditional yurt, all are brightly decorated and sleep four to five people with toilet and shower facilities outside of the yurts. A traditional yurt (as it’s known in Turkic languages) is a portable, round tent used as a dwelling by nomads in the steppes of Central Asia.

Please note:
• As yurt accommodation is on a shared basis, private rooms are not provided. This applies to both twin share and solo travellers.
• All yurts have been designed in the traditional nomadic way with mattresses on wool carpeted floors (there are no bed frames).
• Exploring Central Asia does at times require covering some long distances. This also includes travelling on roads not built to the same standard we may not be used to, however your driver and guide are professionals and will do everything they can to ensure a comfortable journey throughout.

Overnight: Almaluu Traditional Yurt Camp, Bokonbaevo

Meals included: Breakfast; Dinner

Travel to Jeti-Oguz Gorge to admire rock formations made of red sandstone and see local pastures which have long been used by shepherds to graze flocks of sheep and herds of horses.

Continue onwards to Karakol, located at the crossroads of Central Asia. Many unique cultures contribute to the town's culinary history and cultural heritage. With both the Tian Shan Mountains and Lake Issyk-Kul nearby, the city is blessed with amazing natural beauty. On arrival enjoy a city tour, visiting old Russian style houses, a Russian Orthodox Church (1886) and Dungan Mosque (1899) which is made out of wood with no nails.

After travelling approximately 170 kilometres, enjoy dinner with an ethnic Uighur family to taste the national cuisine. Lagman is a traditional Uighur dish made of pulled noodles, meat and vegetables. You will be able to see and help with the process of making and cooking Lagman.

Overnight: Hotel Green Yard or similar, Karakol

Meals included: Breakfast; Dinner

This morning, depart Karakol for the Kyrgyz-Kazakh border, where you will enter Kazakhstan. After border formalities, make a stop at the Charyn River to observe the beginning of the Charyn and Moon Canyons.

You'll continue to Almaty, the former capital and largest city of Kazakhstan. Located in southeast Kazakhstan at the foot of the Zailiyskiy Alatau branch of the Tian Shan Mountains, this modern city has evolved into Central Asia's cultural and artistic hub with an abundance of great restaurants and museums.

Please note: Arrival time in Almaty will be dependent on how long the border crossing takes. This can be unpredictable and will be assessed on the day. This is an approximately 430-kilometre travel day.

Overnight: Hotel Uyut or similar, Almaty

Meals included: Breakfast

Almaty is a sunny city surrounded by greenery with wide streets, beautiful buildings, numerous parks, squares and fountains. It's no coincidence that the beautiful city at the foot of the emerald ridges of the Tien Shan is called the “garden city”. In the spring, when the southern outskirts are buried in the bloom of apple, apricot and cherry orchards, the city becomes like a fairy tale.

Today, discover the heart of Almaty's beauty on a journey through its most iconic sights. Wander through the lush Panfilov Park to behold the stunning Zenkov Cathedral, a vibrant wooden masterpiece with an interior that will leave you speechless. Afterwards, get a taste of local life at the bustling Green Bazaar (closed Mondays). Explore the grand Republic and Abay Square before taking to the sky on a cable car ride up Kok-Tobe Mountain. From this incredible observation deck, you'll witness unforgettable views of the city sparkling below, a perfect end to an unforgettable day.

Overnight: Hotel Uyut or similar, Almaty

Meals included: Breakfast

This morning, transfer to the airport and fly onwards to Tashkent, the capital of Uzbekistan and among the five largest cities in Central Asia.

Tall modern buildings, historical buildings, ancient mosques are hiding here. Meanwhile, modern shopping centres mix with traditional oriental bazaars and markets. It's worth noting that many of the old buildings were restored after a powerful earthquake partially destroyed many of them in 1966.

Upon arrival, immerse yourself in the modern heart of Tashkent with a tour of the city's New Town. Your journey begins at Independence Square (Mustaqilliq Maidoni), a powerful symbol of Uzbekistan's sovereignty and the nation's main public space. From there, visit the magnificent Navoi Theatre Square which is home to the State Academic Grand Theatre. A true architectural masterpiece, the building was designed by the acclaimed Soviet architect Alexei Schusev, who also created Lenin’s Mausoleum. The tour concludes with a visit to the Museum of Applied Arts, housed in a beautifully decorated former palace, offering a stunning collection of traditional Uzbek craftsmanship.

Overnight: Hotel Al Anvar or similar, Tashkent

Meals included: Breakfast

Today, step back in time as you explore the enchanting Old Town of Tashkent, a place steeped in history and spiritual significance. Your journey begins at the magnificent Kukeldash Madrasah, a living monument that continues to serve as a Koran school today. From there, you'll enter the sacred heart of the city at Khast-Imam Square. Prepare to be mesmerised by a stunning ensemble of architectural wonders including the serene Barak Khan Madrasah, the striking Tillya Sheikh Mosque and the humbling Kaffal Shashi Mausoleum. This square is also home to one of the world's most treasured relics, a rare and ancient Koran written by the third Caliph Osman, a priceless artefact of profound historical importance.

Overnight: Hotel Al Anvar or similar, Tashkent

Meals included: Breakfast

This morning, your Central Asian adventure takes a new turn as you cross the border into Tajikistan on an approximately 165-kilometre day.

Upon arrival in the ancient city of Khujand, you'll dive straight into its rich history. Your first stop is the serene Mausoleum of Sheikh Muslihiddin, a tribute to a 12th-century ruler and poet whose legacy is etched into the city's soul. Journey through time at the Historical Museum, nestled within the city's ancient citadel, offering a fascinating glimpse into Khujand’s past. The tour culminates at Payshanba Bazaar, Tajikistan's largest and most vibrant market. Here, you can immerse yourself in a world of sights, sounds and smells, a perfect opportunity to experience the true heartbeat of Tajik daily life.

Overnight: Hotel Sogdiyon or similar, Khujand

Meals included: Breakfast

Today's approximately 305-kilometre drive to Dushanbe is a highlight in itself, featuring stunning views of the Fan Mountains as you pass through the Varzob Gorge and Istiklol Tunnel.

The journey will be broken up with a visit to the ancient city of Istaravshan, a town founded by Cyrus the Great. Explore its historic Old Town, including the Mosque of Shohi-Zinda and the ruins of Mug Teppe.

The trip concludes with a scenic drive to Dushanbe, including a few stops in local villages for an authentic glimpse into the daily life of the Tajik people.

Overnight: Hotel Atlas or similar, Dushanbe

Meals included: Breakfast

Today, you'll explore the best of Dushanbe, a city where ancient history and modern life beautifully intersect. Your tour begins at the magnificent Museum of Antiquities, a true cultural treasure. Come face-to-face with the crown jewel of the collection, a spectacular 14-meter-long reclining Buddha, the largest in Central Asia and a UNESCO-protected masterpiece.

From there, delve into the city's diverse spiritual landscape by visiting the impressive main mosque, the historic old synagogue and the serene Russian Orthodox Church. Afterards, enjoy a relaxing stroll through Rudaki Park before immersing yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of the Shah-Mansur Bazaar.

Your day concludes with a short trip outside the city to the legendary Hisor Fortress. Dating back to the 18th-century, this former palace of the Emirate of Bukhara offers a fascinating glimpse into the region's royal past and provides a perfect end to a day of exploration.

Overnight: Hotel Atlas or similar, Dushanbe

Meals included: Breakfast

Today, depart Dushanbe and travel onwards to Samarkand in Uzbekistan.

Along the way, visit the town of Penjikent which is very famous in tourist circles for its sights, monuments of architecture and recreation areas on the coast of Zaravshan River.

On arrival in Penjikent, visit the excavation site of Old Penjikent, the Rudaki Museum and the old town of Penjikent.

Afterwards, cross the Uzbek and Tajik border and finish the day in Samarkand. The historic town of Samarkand is a crossroad and melting pot of world's cultures. Founded in 7th-century B.C. as ancient Afrosiab, Samarkand received its most significant development in the Timurid’s period from the 14th to the 15th centuries.

Overnight: Hotel Asia Samarkand or similar, Samarkand

Meals included: Breakfast

Today, prepare to step into a legend as you explore the fabled city of Samarkand, a magnificent crossroads of the Silk Road. Your journey begins at the iconic Registan Square, for centuries the beating heart of this ancient city. You'll be awe-struck by the breathtaking beauty of its 3 towering madrasahs. These include the 15th-century Ulug-Bek Madrasah, the 17th-century Tillya-Kori Madrasah with its stunning gold leaf interior, and the equally magnificent Sher-Dor Madrasah with its intricate tile work and lion mosaics.

Visit Gur-e-Amir, the mausoleum of the legendary conqueror Tamerlane. This architectural masterpiece is a true jewel of Islamic art with its exquisite blue dome and intricate designs, a perfect tribute to the medieval East.

Your final stop is the village of Koni-Gil where you'll witness a fascinating, centuries-old craft in action at a silk-paper manufacture. Here, you’ll see the delicate process of how high-quality paper is made from the bark of mulberry trees, a tradition that was once a closely guarded secret of the Silk Road.

To cap off an incredible day, you will be invited to a special dinner at the National House. This is more than just a meal, it's an authentic cultural experience where you will be fully immersed in the local atmosphere and savour the rich, traditional flavours of genuine Uzbek cuisine.

Overnight: Hotel Asia Samarkand or similar, Samarkand

Meals included: Breakfast; Dinner

This morning, depart Samarkand and take a high-speed train to Bukhara, one of the greatest trading centres at the Silk Road.

The history of Bukhara stretches back millennia and has long served as a centre of trade, scholarship, culture and religion. The town is also known as an open-air museum of mosques, madrasahs and minarets. It was the first oasis that caught eyes of invading Arab armies and in its 2,500 year history, has constantly changed hands from one ruler to another.

Upon arrival, immerse yourself in the living history of Bukhara with a guided tour of some iconic landmarks. Your journey begins at the magnificent Poi Kalon Complex, a stunning architectural ensemble that has stood for centuries. You’ll be captivated by the soaring Kalon Minaret, known as the Tower of Death, a majestic symbol of the city. Explore the massive Kalon Mosque and the serene Mir-i-Arab Madrasah, two masterpieces of Islamic architecture that still function today. From there, wander through the ancient Tok-i Zargaron trade domes where Silk Road merchants once haggled for goods, and discover the hidden beauty of the Magok-i Attari Mosque, a site of deep historical and spiritual significance.

Please note: In the unlikely scenario it is not possible to get train tickets, an alternative bus transfer will be provided.

Overnight: Hotel Iman or similar, Bukhara

Meals included: Breakfast

This morning, your senses will come alive with a visit to a bustling oriental bazaar where vibrant colours and the intoxicating smells create an unforgettable atmosphere.

Your journey through Bukhara's enchanting streets continues as you explore its most beautiful architectural ensembles. Step into the history of the powerful Ark Citadel, a fortress-palace that has stood for centuries. From there, visit the peaceful Samanid Mausoleum and the unique Chor Minor Madrasah with its four striking minarets. Gather at Lyabi-Hauz Square, the heart of Old Bukhara, before visiting the mystical Mausoleum of Chashma Ayub and the stunning Bolo-Hauz Mosque. You'll also walk through ancient caravanserais, including the Nugai and Akhmadjon.

Afterwards, you'll be treated to a special folklore show at the Nadir Divan Begi Madrasah. This magical evening includes captivating music and a unique puppet master performance, where you'll gain an appreciation for the intricate, centuries-old art of puppet-making.

Overnight: Hotel Iman or similar, Bukhara

Meals included: Breakfast

Today, travel onwards to Khiva via the Kizilkum Desert. This is the route of armies of Persians, Alexander the Great and Genghis Kahn.

The city is unique in its beauty and often known as The Pearl of Khorezm Oasis. Important spiritual and cultural values came from the large scientific centres of astronomy, mathematics and medicine that operated in this area centuries ago. A valuable heritage of knowledge was left here by internationally famous scholars such as Beruni, Agakhi and Nadjmiddin. One can stroll through the narrow streets of Khiva, peeking into the small courtyards through the wooden carved doors.

Overnight: Hotel Malika or similar, Khiva

Meals included: Breakfast

Today, enjoy a captivating tour of Khiva's UNESCO-listed old town. Your journey begins with the formidable Kunya Ark fortress, an ancient citadel that served as the residence of Khivan rulers. Next, marvel at the striking architecture of the Mohammed Amin Khan Madrasah, followed by the towering and beautifully tiled Islamic Khodja Minaret. Your morning continues with visits to the Palvan Kari Complex and the Rafanek Madrasah.

In the afternoon, your exploration deepens with a visit to the Uch-Avliyo Mausoleum, a revered burial site. Discover the unique architecture of the Juma Mosque, famous for its hall supported by over 200 carved wooden columns. Journey into the opulent Tash-Hauli Palace, where a live cobra is said to still guard the treasures of the last Khan. You'll also explore the Arab Mohammed Khan Madrasah and countless other breathtaking historical sites. Throughout your tour, you'll be enchanted by the fine, ornate wood carvings, an ancient art form that has been cultivated in Khiva for centuries.

Overnight: Hotel Malika or similar, Khiva

Meals included: Breakfast

In the morning, you'll enter the last Stan of our trip - Turkmenistan. After crossing the border between Uzbekistan and Turkmenistan, your journey continues to Konya-Urgench.

This ancient town contains ruins of the capital of Khorezm, a part of the Achaemenid Empire. Its inhabitants deserted the town 350 years ago in order to develop a new settlement and Kunya-Urgench has remained undisturbed. In 2005, the ruins of Old Urgench were inscribed in the UNESCO List of World Heritage Sites. It is one of the most important archaeological sites in Turkmenistan, lying within a vast zone of protected landscapes and containing a large number of well-preserved monuments, dating from the 11th to the 16th centuries. It comprises mosques, gates of caravanserai, fortresses, mausoleums and minarets. The influence of their architectural style and craftsmanship reached Iran, Afghanistan and the later architecture of the Mogul Empire of 16th-century in India. Here, you will visit Kutlug Temir minaret, Tubarek Khanum, Sultan Tekesh, and the Fahriddin Mausoleums burial mosque of 12th century and 15th century Gutluk Temir Minaret.

Continue to the Darvaza gas crater, also known as the "Door to Hell" which is a spectacular sight in the Karakum Desert. In 1971, geologists discovered a cavern filled with natural gas. To prevent the release of toxic methane, they ignited the gas and it has been burning ever since. This fiery pit, measuring 50 to 100 meters wide, is a breathtaking spectacle visible from a distance. If the sight doesn't guide you, the distinct sulfur smell will.

Conclude the 370-kilometre travel day with a delicious barbecue dinner at your yurt camp, located right by the crater so you may marvel at this natural wonder through into the night.

Please note:
• Depending on how long border crossing formalities take, and the daylight hours available, Konya-Urgench may be skipped to ensure you arrive in Darvaza gas crater safely before nightfall.
• As yurt accommodation is on a shared basis (4 - 5 people per yurt) private rooms are not provided. This applies to both twin share and solo travellers.
• All yurts have been designed in the traditional nomadic way with mattresses on wool carpeted floors (there are no bed frames).
• Toilet and shower facilities are outside of the yurts.

Overnight: Garagum Yurt Camp or similar, Darvaza

Meals included: Breakfast; Dinner

Today, your journey takes you to Ashgabat, the capital of Turkmenistan.

Upon arrival, you will be introduced to this unique city, renowned for its pristine white marble architecture and grand monuments. Your tour begins in the city center where you'll witness the remarkable scale and symmetry of Ashgabat's urban design. Visit the bustling Russian Bazaar, a vibrant place to experience local life. Admire the beautiful Ertogrul Gazi Mosque, a grand testament to Islamic artistry, before exploring the sprawling Independence Park and iconic Neutrality Arch.

Overnight: Hotel Sport or similar, Ashgabat

Meals included: Breakfast

Today, you will discover the best of Ashgabat on a tour that combines history, culture and nature. Start at the Nisa archaeological site, the former capital of the Parthian Empire, followed by a deep dive into Turkmenistan's past at the National Museum of History (closed on Tuesdays and national holidays).

Next, visit the monumental Turkmenbashy Ruhy Mosque, an architectural marvel of white marble. Right next door, the Magtymguly Pyragy Park awaits, celebrating cultural harmony with statues of 24 famous poets from around the world.

Later, travel to a private farm outside of the city to meet the legendary Akhal-Teke horses, Turkmenistan’s proud national symbol. These elegant, purebred horses have been vital to the Turkmen people for millennia. You can feed them, snap a photo on horseback, and see firsthand how they are trained and cared for.

End the day with a memorable farewell dinner with your travel companions.

Overnight: Hotel Sport or similar, Ashgabat

Meals included: Breakfast; Dinner

Today, check out of the hotel and be transferred to the airport for your return flight home after the trip of a lifetime!

Please note:
• Due to limited flight scheduling, your return flight may depart early this morning.
• Standard checkout time is 12:00 and luggage storage will be available for those with evening flights.

Meals included: Breakfast; In-Flight

Meals included: None