5-Stans Tour: Exceptional Landscapes and Enriching Cultural Experiences

Itinerary

Day 1: Ashgabat: A visit to the colourful Russian bazaar – a true cultural experience

• Start off your 23-day tour in Ashgabat. Match this bizarre location to a vibrant, fascinating Russian bazaar – one of the oldest covered and largest markets in Turkmenistan.
• On your arrival, meet your guide and driver where you will transfer and check in to your hotel (early check-in is included). After some R&R, meet for a group city tour at 1pm. Here you will visit the Old Nisa Fortress, the Monument and Park of Independence, the impressive Ertoghrul Ghazi mosque, the National carpet museum, and an unforgettable trip to the vibrant Russian bazaar.
• Discover the unique Russian bazaar, where you will be plunged into an atmosphere that resembles the rhythm of Ashgabat life. Admire the marvellous collection of handmade Turkmen carpets at the National Carpet Museum.
• A destination encompassed with striking white marble buildings, here in Ashgabat you can enjoy a city tour where you can wonder at the Old Nisa fortress which was once a residence of the Parthian Empire (247 BC-253 AD). Marvel at the Eiffel Tower lookalike, a striking white-marble independence monument.
• Transport is included during the whole day from morning till dinner end.

 

Overnight at hotel

✓ Breakfast ✓ Lunch ✓ Dinner

Day 2: Ashgabat – One of Central Asia’s most unique destinations

• Ashgabat is the political, cultural, and economic hub of the nation – a perfect destination for one of your days in Turkmenistan! Here you can immerse yourself in the cultural experiences, which includes getting close and personal to the ‘golden horse’ – the elegant exotic winged Akhal-Tekkes.
• Visit the Arkadash stud farm and admire the beautiful Geok-Depe mosque. Here you can ride the “winged” Akhal-Tekkes. After this, stop over at the complex in Kipchak before returning to your hotel for lunch at a local restaurant. After lunch enjoy your free time or embark on the optional day trip to the Darwaza Flaming crater (travel in a 4WD jeep, departing at 14:00, arriving to the destination by 18:00, and returning to your hotel by 00:00. This trip is 280km one-way).
• Ashgabat has a rich cultural legacy which you can experience first-hand. Remember a once in a lifetime ride on the “winged” Akhal-Tekkes, where you can snap some photos for your memory box.
• A city fused with modernity and history. Here you can visit the site of the biggest battle for the Russian domination in Central Asia at Arkadash stud farm. If you embark on the optional day trip, you enjoy a desert drive and wonder at the fire temple known as the Darwaza flaming crater.
• Transport is included during the whole day from morning till dinner end.

Overnight at hotel

✓ Breakfast ✓ Lunch

Day 3: Ashgabat – Dashoguz – Border Point (105 KM) – KHIVA (60KM)

• After a hotel breakfast, transfer to the airport and fly to Dashoguz. From here, cross the border to Uzbekistan near Dashoguz/Shavat and proceed to Khiva before checking in to your hotel.

 

Overnight at hotel

✓ Breakfast ✓ Lunch ✓ Dinner

Day 4: Khiva: A city basked in glorious desert light

• A city made for walking! Embrace the atmospheric Khiva, while unearthing the Mausoleum of Pakhlavan Makhmud – one of the town’s most magnificent spots.
• On your walking tour, explore the Kalta Minor minaret – a short but magnificent minaret, the Kunya Ark, the Madrasah Rakhimkhon, the Mausoleum of Pakhlavan Makhmud and Islam Khodja minaret – where you can spot some of the most beautiful views over the town. In the afternoon, explore the Friday Mosque and Tashauli Palace – a luxurious palace of grandeur.
• Walking around Khiva with its compact atmosphere basked in beautiful desert light is a cultural experience in itself. As you walk around you can imagine the layers of history around you – the town is thought to date back more than 2,000 years. What can be seen now would not be dissimilar to the city that the Russian Army stormed in 1873 in their conquest of Central Asia.
• The Ichan Kala offers a window in the past, welcoming any traveller with various attractions. Uncover the Kalta Minor, a well-known visual symbol of Khiva. Discover the city-within-a-city with the Kunya Ark. Embark on Khiva’s education at the Madrasah Rakhimkhon.
• Transport is included during the whole day from morning till dinner end.

Overnight at hotel

✓ Breakfast ✓ Lunch

Day 5: From beautiful Khiva to the striking medieval city of Bukhara

• Today you will be immersed in tradition and culture. Enjoy a full day to discover the treasures of this medieval city, exploring the beautiful Poi Kalon minaret and mosque – dating back to the early 12^th century and often deemed the symbol of Bukhara.
• Take a transfer to Urgench airport and catch a flight to Bukhara. Discover the majestic Lyabi-Hauz ensemble – a central monument of ancient Bukhara, the modern centre of traditional Uzbekistan, madrassah Nadirkhon Devanbegi, Khanaga, Mogaki Attari mosque, Poi Kalon minaret, Madrasahs Aziz Khan and Ulugbek. After lunch you will visit Ark Fortress, Balakhauz mosque, and the mausoleum of Ismail Samanid, Chashma Ayub.
• Bukhara has long served as the centre of culture. Admire and marvel at the gold and suzani embroidery at the Hunarmand UNDP Assisted workshops.
• When exploring Bukhara, you will uncover hundreds of incredible registered monuments. Explore the must-see destination of Lab-i-khauz ensemble, a destination with history and tranquillity characterized by the beautiful pond, and admire the outstanding architecture of Madrasahs Aziz Khan and Ulugbek.
• Transport is included during the whole day from morning till dinner end.

Overnight at hotel

✓ Breakfast ✓ Lunch

Day 6: Bukhara and an stimulating out-of-town excursion to Sitora-i-Mokhikhosa

• Bukhara – known as one of the most enchanting cities in the country. Admire the beautiful architectural buildings of Sitora-i-Mokhikhosa.
• Continue your sightseeing of Bukhara with an out-of-town excursion to visit the Sitora-i-Mokhikhosa – the summer residence of the former emir of Bukhara. After this, enjoy a further excursion to Bahauddin Naqshbandi Mausoleum. Then enjoy an afternoon to yourself for further exploration.
• On your visit to Sitora-i-Mokhikhosa, admire the unique mixture of traditional Russian style architecture harmoniously mixed with local oriental traditions. Enjoy your afternoon at leisure.
• Travel to the outskirts of the city and explore the Sitora-i-Mokhikhos. Here you can marvel at the unique buildings surrounding this destination and admire the Famous thrown white hall decorated with carved alabaster. After this, discover Bahauddin Naqshbandi Mausoleum. Bahouddin Naqshband’s cult was highly respected among folks.
• Transport is included during the whole day from morning till dinner end.

Overnight at a hotel.

✓ Breakfast ✓ Lunch ✓ Dinner

Day 7: Bukhara – explore beautiful Bukhara at your own pace

• Bukhara is an enchanting city that requires a day at leisure so you can explore this marvellous destination at your own pace. Unearth the hundreds of registered monuments around the city or spend the afternoon shopping for some memorable souvenirs.

 Overnight at hotel

✓ Breakfast ✓ Lunch

Day 8: Bukhara – Gijduvan – Samarkand

• Experience life in Uzbekistan as a local, combining tradition and culture. You will observe in wonder the unique coloration and techniques of Gijduvan pottery, before being absorbed in the wonders that Samarkand has on offer.
• Relax on a morning drive to Samarkand with a stopover at Gijduvan – the centre of famous handmade ceramics. On arrival in Samarkand, check in to the hotel and explore this destination at your leisure. The journey from Bukhara to Samarkand is 270km in total.
• Gijduvan is a small traditional town, offer enriching cultural experiences. Admire the delicate process of creating handmade ceramic and immerse yourself in the local life of this traditional small town.
• Transport is included during the whole day from morning till dinner end.

Overnight at hotel

✓ Breakfast ✓ Lunch

Day 9: Samarkand: Discover a cultural crossroads

• Discover the intricately beautiful mausoleums and mosques located on the Silk Road with a memorable tour around the historical and vibrant city of Samarkand. Uncover one of the most significant monuments of Samarkand known as Bibi-Khanum – an elegant and architectural mosque.
• Discover the secrets of Samarkand with a full day tour. This includes visiting the famous Registan square, admiring Ulug-Bek Madrasah, the Tillya-Kori Madrasah, and the Sher-Dor Madrasah, and discovering the mausoleum of Great Tamerlane, the Bibi-Khanum (a chief Friday Mosque). Also explore the Silk Road bazaar and Shahi Zinda necropolis. There is also an optional wine tasting experience.
• Samarkand blends together many different world cultures into one city. You can experience this at the Silk Road bazaar, where you will find local cuisine amid the live atmosphere of Samarkand. As an optional experience, you can visit the charming Khovrenco winery.
• On your tour of one of the oldest cities in Central Asia, experience the renowned Registan Square. For many centuries, this square was the heart of Samarkand. Here you can admire the superb azure mosaics in a vast plaza setting. Wonder at the three picturesque madrasahs: the Ulug-Bek Madrasah built in 15th century, the Tillya-Kori Madrasah built in 17th century, and the Sher-Dor Madrasah, also built in 17th century.
• Transport is included during the whole day from morning till dinner end.

Overnight at hotel

✓ Breakfast ✓ Lunch

Day 10: Ride on an express train from Samarkand to Tashkent

• Today you will enjoy a memorable experience creating hand-made paper. You will clean tree branches from the bark, polish paper with a stone and paint, all with a talented teacher.
• Continue to explore Samarkand, paying a visit to Ulugbek’s observatory and exploring the ancient settlement of Afrosiab. Head to Konigil village (10 km from Samarkand) to visit a paper-making workshop, before returning to Samarkand to transfer to the railway station for your departure to Tashkent. On arrival in Tashkent, transfer to your hotel.
• Konigil village – famous for its unique craftmanship and magnificent nature. Here you can leave your mark on Samarkand by taking part in the unique process of hand-made paper production.
• Founded in 7^th Century BC, Samarkand is one of the oldest cities in Central Asia. This is reflected in the ancient settlement of Afrosiab, situated on the spurs of Chupan-Ata hills. Here you can align with history among one of the most important archaeological sites in Central Asia.
• Transport is included during the whole day from morning till dinner end.

Overnight at hotel

✓ Breakfast ✓ Lunch

Day 11: Tashkent – Explore one of the oldest and largest cities in Central Asia

• Tashkent is a showpiece of Soviet and post-soviet architecture. Today you can marvel at the striking architectural design of the Tila Shaikh mosque which according to legend, keeps the Golden hair of the prophet Muhammad in its walls.
• Go back in time with a visit to the old town. Explore Barak Khana Seminary, Tila Shaikh mosque, Kukeldash Madrassah, and the oldest market in Tashkent – the Chorsu bazaar. In the afternoon, admire the Museum of Applied Arts, Mustakillik (Independence) Square, the famous Tashkent Metro, and discover Amir Temur square.
• Tashkent is the main economic and culture centre of Central Asia. Experience this culture first-hand at the vibrant Chorsu bazaar. You can also embrace the cultural heritage of the Uzbek people at the Museum of Applied Arts.
• Encounter modern Uzbek culture combined with elements of its ancient past. Admire the striking Kukeldash Madrassah – one of the most famous historical destinations in Tashkent. Escape the city to unearth the modern Amir Temur square and be surrounded by luscious grass and beautiful flowers.
• Transport is included during the whole day from morning till dinner end.

Overnight at hotel

✓ Breakfast ✓ Lunch ✓ Dinner

Day 12: Tashkent – Oibek Border – Khujand

• Founded by Alexander the Great 2,500 years ago, Khujand has many treasures on offer. From the grandeur of Arbob Palace, to the bustling atmospheric paths of the Panjshanbe bazaar.
• Travel to the Oybek border and cross into Tajikistan. Drive to Khujand and check in to your hotel. Enjoy a city tour where you can discover Pushkin square with Kamoli Khudjandi Square, Timur Malik’s fortress and Sugd museum, Muslihiddin memorial complex, Panjshanbe bazaar (Khujand’s central market that has many shops offering different kind of goods and services), and Arbob Palace.
• Khujand is the cultural and historical centre of Tajikistan. Here you can wander through the colourful and unique Panjshanbe bazaar, which is considered one of the oldest markets in Tajikistan. Embrace leisurely local life at the Kamoli Khudjandi Square.
• Khujand was a central silk road trading location. On your visit to this exceptional destination, unearth the history of Tajikistan at the Timur Malik’s fortress and Sugd museum. Walk around the Arbob Palace in wonder. Here you can admire the architecture and explore the site where the Tajik flag was chosen.
• Transport is included during the whole day from morning till dinner end.

Overnight at hotel

✓ Breakfast ✓ Lunch ✓ Dinner

Day 13: Khujand – Iskandarkul Lake – Dushanbe

• Today is a day for the senses. Admire the striking natural beauty of both the Iskanderkul lake and the Varzob Gorge. Varzob Gorge is hidden in a beautiful alpine mountain region with natural thermal springs at Khoja Obi Garm.
• Enjoy breakfast at the hotel before a transfer to Dushanbe. On route, admire the scenic Iskanderkul lake (220km from Khujand) and time dependent, the picturesque Varzob Gorge. On arrival to Dushanbe, check in to your hotel.
• Iskanderkul lake is a tranquil retreat, formed from a rock fall. In some areas it reaches a depth of 72 meters! If the Iskanderkul lake isn’t visually pleasing enough, the picturesque Varzob Gorge will stay in your memories for a long time. You will follow the rushing Varzob river for about 70 km, before climbing steeply to Anzob Pass (3,373 meters).
• Transport is included during the whole day from morning till dinner end. You will travel in a minibus.

Overnight at hotel

✓ Breakfast ✓ Lunch ✓ Dinner

Day 14: From Dushanbe to Bishkek

• Embark on an excursion to Hissor Town to experience one of the most exquisite and historical sites of Tajikistan – Hissor Fortress. Uncover the spectacular 1,400-year-old statue – Buddha in Nirvana at the Museum of National Antiquities.
• Spend the morning admiring the monument of Ismoili Somoni, discover Rudaki park in the centre of the city, the local bazaar, and beautiful Botanical Garden. Later, explore the cultural place of Kohi Navruz (subject to permit), before an afternoon excursion to Hissor town where you can uncover the ancient fortress of Hissor, the Medrassah Kuhna, the mausoleum of Sufi saint Mahdumi Azam. Later, explore the famous Museum of National Antiquities, the Museum of Tajik Way of life and after an early dinner transfer to the airport for a flight to Bishkek.
• Embrace the cultural atmosphere of the local bazaar and the spectacular Botanical Gardens. Don’t forget your chance to wander at Kohi Narvuz (subject to permit) a cultural palace where you can witness the traditional architecture of Tajik people with woodcarving, painting, and mosaic arts.
• Hissor is best known for its ancient fortress which is one of the most precious historical sites of Tajikistan combining the traditional elements of power, trade, and culture of the ancient Tajik nation. On this excursion, you can explore the traditional life of a local at the Museum of Tajik Way of life.
• Transport is included during the whole day from morning till dinner end.

Overnight at hotel

✓ Breakfast ✓ Lunch

Day 15: Bishkek – Ala Archa – Bishkek

• Bishkek is an enticing destination, comprising of nature, a laid-back atmosphere, modern high rises, and a vibrant nightlife. Today you can get your fill of tradition and culture at the National Art Museum and the lively Asian bazaar.
• Uncover the secrets of Bishkek with a full day guided tour. Here you can discover Pobeda Square (Victory Square), Duboviy Park (Oak Park), Central Ala-Too Square, the National Arts Museum, and National Philharmonic. No visit to Bishkek is complete without a visit to the radiant Asian Bazaar! After lunch at a local restaurant, be at one with nature in the Ala Archa National Park.
• Bishkek is a cultural hub, bustling with tradition and civilization. At the Asian bazaar you will be at the heart of Bishkek. Make sure you have a camera to capture dynamic photos of bustling local life.
• Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant.
• Bishkek is the capital and the largest city of Kyrgyzstan, set amongst a spectacular mountainous backdrop. In this magnificent city, you can unearth Central Ala-Too Square, which symbolises the mountainous scenery and beautiful nature of Bishkek. Discover the National Philharmonic located in the heart of Bishkek.
• Transport is included during the whole day from morning till dinner end.

Overnight at hotel

✓ Breakfast ✓ Lunch ✓ Dinner

Day 16: From Bishkek to the nomadic culture of Cholpon Ata

• Marvel at the world’s second-largest alpine lake on your visit to Issyk Kul Lake. The serene blue waters of the lake are set against a dramatic backdrop of the snow-dappled Ala-Too mountains.
• Be picked up by your guide at 8am for a transfer to Issyk Kul Lake. On route, explore Burana Tower (an 11th century minaret), and an open-air museum of Balbals (stone warriors), where you can see national horse games. Your night and dinner will be in a hotel. The journey distance is 270km.
• The Burana Tower and Museum of Balbals offer an insight into one of Kyrgyzstan’s most outstanding historical sites and cultural traditions.
• Issyk Kul Lake is known as ‘the pearl of Central Asia’, and due to the salty water, Lake Issyk Kul possesses curative qualities. This picturesque lake is a must see that will be carved in your memory for years to come.
• Transport is included during the whole day from morning till dinner end.

Overnight at hotel

✓ Breakfast ✓ Lunch ✓ Dinner

Day 17: From Cholpon Ata to the scenic and unique landscapes of Karakol

• Not just an entryway to the natural wonders of Issyk Kul Lake, Karakol is a destination full of fascinating history and culture. Here you can unearth the pre-Islamic Buddhist past reflected in the imagery at the Dungan Mosque.
• Embrace an unforgettable boat ride to marvel the beauty of the lake, before driving to the glorious Semenovskoye Gorge. Then, stopping off at the impressive ancient stone petroglyphs, continue along the Northern shore of the lake to the town of Karakol, where you will visit the impressive Dungan Mosque, and an old wooden Orthodox Church. Spend the night in a guesthouse.
• The unforgettable boat ride along the beautiful Issyk Kul Lake combined with the dramatic snow topped mountains and luscious green pine trees of the beautiful Semenovskoye Gorge will stay with you forever. Combine this beauty with the historical and cultural 2,000-year-old petroglyphs, and you will have a day to remember for certain!
• During this scenic journey, discover the Dungan Mosque, which was built in a remarkable Chinese style without use of a single metal nail, and wonder at the old wooden Orthodox Church, which over the years, has been used as a theatre and a warehouse.
• Transport is included during the whole day from morning till dinner end.

Overnight at a guesthouse

✓ Breakfast ✓ Lunch ✓ Dinner

Day 18: From Karakol to serene Tamga

• From getting up close and personal to eagles, to exploring a fairy-tale canyon, and finishing the evening off with your own homemade flatbread, this is a truly unforgettable day centred around ecotourism and crystal clear, fresh mountain air.
• Start your day at the unforgettable Skazka Canyon, where you can marvel at the magnificent canyon formations. After, discover the hidden treasure that is Barskaun Gorge where we will embark on an exceptional waterfall hike. On arrival in Bokonbaevo village, encounter a spectacular Eagle-hunting show, before baking flatbread in a cooking class at a traditional yurt camp. The journey between Karakol and Tamga is 140km.
• Bokonbaevo takes its name from a Kyrgyz poet, and there are plenty of traditional and culture experiences waiting for you. The Eagle-Hunting show is an unforgettable experience. Kyrgyz tribes have used birds to hunt from the 10th century AD up to the present day.
• You can also experience local cuisine up close and personal when baking flatbread in the traditional oven at a yurt camp.
• Experience some marvellous sights on your travels today. The hidden treasure of Skazka Canyon (“Fairy tale”) cannot be missed. The bizarre rocky landscape has been transformed by the wind into extraordinary sculptures and formations. Unearth “The Chinese Wall” given its name due to its similarity to the Great Wall of China. You can also find what appear to be statues of a hippopotamus, snake, dragon, sleeping giant and even whole castles!
• Transport is included during the whole day from morning till dinner end.

Overnight at home stay  

✓ Breakfast ✓ Lunch ✓ Dinner

Day 19: From Tamga to Son Kul

• Son Kul is the ideal destination to experience the life and culture of the Kyrgyz nomads. Take part in a yurt workshop and even experience what it is like to stay in a yurt overnight, among tranquil mountainous surroundings.
• Relax on the drive along the southern shore of Issyk Kul Lake, before enjoying a break in Kyzyl Tuu village where we will assist a yurt workshop. After, continue your trip to Son Kul Lake, and enjoy dinner and an overnight stay in adventurous yurts. The journey from Tamga to Son Kul is 240km.
• A nomadic paradise, this journey centres around tradition and culture. With a exclusive overnight stay in an appealing yurt and the chance to assist in a yurt workshop.
• Enjoy a delicious dinner in the yurts.
• Admire the stunning natural beauty of the Son Kul Lake – a truly remarkable sight! Son Kul Lake is one of the most gorgeous alpine lakes to discover in Kyrgyzstan. This lake is surrounded by mountains, and it is the highest alpine lake in Kyrgyzstan, situated at an altitude of 3,013 meters above sea level. Kyrgyz nomads started to come to this wonderful area with their families for rest and relaxation.
• Transport is included during the whole day from morning till dinner end.

Overnight at Yurts

✓ Breakfast ✓ Lunch ✓ Dinner

Day 20: Son Kul – Bishkek – Almaty

• Today you will have numerous opportunities to engage with the locals and attain a true reflection of local traditional life. Explore Kochkor village which exhibits the traditional way of life among the 15,000 inhabitants.
• After meeting with locals, in the early morning we will drive to the capital of Kyrgyzstan – Bishkek city. On the way, we will stop over at Kochkor village. In the evening, transfer to the airport.
• Start your day by meeting with the locals and gaining a true understanding of tradition and culture. In the picturesque Kochkor village, be further immersed in culture and local life where you can meet a local family and create your own national felt carpet.
• Wander around an exquisite handicraft museum in Kochkor village where you can admire the remarkable silver decorations, coats made of wolves, horse saddle decorations, and impressive carpets.
• Transport is included during the whole day from morning till dinner end.

Overnight at hotel

✓ Breakfast ✓ Lunch

Day 21: Almaty: The financial and cultural centre of Central Asia.

• Almaty has a distinct vibe and pace compared with other regions. Almaty is the former capital of Kazakhstan and is still its largest city. Highlights include the magnificent exhibits of a big collection of Kazak National tools and the history of Kazakhstan jeweller art at the Central State Historical Museum and the Golden room. You can also take an cherished cable car ride for breathtaking views of the city.
• After breakfast, enjoy a city tour where we will visit the Park of Heroes 28-Panfilovtsev, the orthodox Zenkov Cathedral, and tour the Central Mosque. After lunch, discover the Republic Square, the Central State Historical Museum, and the Golden room. After, take a thrilling cable car ride up to the top of the Kok-Tobe Hill in the very heart of the city.
• Almaty is the perfect introduction to modern Kazakhstan. Here you can visit the Park of Heroes 28-Panfilovtsev – a historical and architectural monument in memory of those who defended with great courage and honour of the WWII years. You will also explore and marvel at the most interesting architectural monument in Almaty – the 56-meter Orthodox Zenkov Cathedral.
• Transport is included during the whole day from morning till dinner end.

Overnight at hotel

✓ Breakfast ✓ Lunch ✓ Dinner

Day 22: Almaty and a visit to the nomadic gem of Huns

• ‘Huns’ – a digital nomad dream, followed by an unforgettable journey to Medeu where you can experience incredible views surrounded by the marvellous mountains of Trans-Ili Alatau.
• Spend the morning driving 40km to ethnographic recreation centre of Huns. After lunch and exploring Huns, return to Almaty where you will transfer to Medeu and Medeu dam.
• When discovering the ethnographic recreation centre “Huns”, you will immerse yourself in the life of nomads. Here you can learn more about the traditional customs of the Kazakh people.
• When visiting the “Huns” you can experience delicious national dishes.
• Medeu is known as one of the best-known tourist locations in Kazakhstan. Here you can unearth the highest mountainous ice-skating sports complex in the world! Head over to the gigantic Medeu Dam which protects the city from destructive mudflows. From here you can admire a breathtaking panoramic view of the skating ring.
• Transport is included during the whole day from morning till dinner end.

Overnight at hotel

✓ Breakfast ✓ Lunch ✓ Dinner

Day 23: Departure home

Transfer to the airport for a flight home.

✓ Breakfast