
Central Asia: Five Stans Express
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Tour Overview
To see all five Stans in Central Asia, this epic trip will start in the grand Ashgabat of Turkmenistan, explore Samarkand in Uzbekistan, then head to Tajikistan, Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan. See the best of the Silk Road and deep dive into the fascinating history, captivating landscapes and beautiful culture that’s intertwined throughout this region. You'll stay in yurts near Lake Issyk-Kul, explore Registan Square in Samarkand and watch the eternal flame of Darvaza Crater – a 70-m-wide hole in the Karakum Desert known as ‘The Gates of Hell’. From wide open plains full of wild horses to homestays and dinners with locals, there’s so much to see, do and learn in this region – so why not spend 24 days uncovering all you can, with a local leader by your side?

Trip Code: KFSS
Start
Ashgabat
End
Bishkek
Destination
Uzbekistan
Meals
23 breakfasts, 7 dinners
Transport
Private Vehicle, Flight, Metro, High Speed Train
Accommodation
Hotel (17 nights), Guest House (1 night), Tourist Yurt Camp (3 nights), Home Stay (2 nights)
Days
24
Max Group Size
Min 1 - Max 12
Min Age
15
Style
Originali
Physical
3i
Trip Highlights
Why you'll love this trip
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Explore all the essential highlights of Central Asia, uncovering fascinating culture, natural landscapes and diverse history alongside unforgettable local interaction.
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See the incredible Darvaza Crater (the Gates of Hell – an eternally burning flame), Kolsai Lakes and Issyk-Kul Lake, soaking up the natural landmarks far off the common tourist trail.
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Take a step back in time as you explore the history of the Silk Road, with visits to Khiva’s ancient town, Registan, in Samarkand, Bukhara, and Khujand.
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Get to know the locals with a carpet-making workshop, through the streets of the bustling bazaars and with a homecooked dinner of plov (Uzbekistan's national dish) during an immersive homestay.
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Camp in yurts near Lake Issyk-Kul, stay in local villages and make yourself at home in a boutique hotel that used to be an old Jewish house in Bukhara.
Day by Day Itinerary
Itinerary

What's Included
Inclusions and activities
Meals
23 breakfasts, 7 dinners
Transport
Private Vehicle, Flight, Metro, High Speed Train
Accommodation
Hotel (17 nights), Guest House (1 night), Tourist Yurt Camp (3 nights), Home Stay (2 nights)
Included activities
- Ashgabat – Complimentary Arrival Transfer
- Ashgabat - Ertugrul Gazi Mosque
- Ashgabat - Anau ruins
- Ashgabat - Independence Monument
- Ashgabat - Turkmenbashy Ruhi Mosque & Family Mausoleum of the First President of Turkmenistan
Optional activities
Is This Trip Right for You?
Is this trip right for you?
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There are some long travelling days on this trip, but it’s all part of the adventure and a great way to get to know your fellow travellers.
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This trip requires a moderate level of fitness as it involves some walking and swimming, allowing you to really get among nature. Please bring sturdy, comfortable walking shoes, a swimsuit and comfortable clothing.
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Multiple activities on this trip are subject to weather and water conditions and on occasion, may be cancelled for safety or operational reasons. In the case of cancellation, we will endeavour to find a suitable replacement activity.
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KFSS · 24 days
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