Central Asia Adventure: Astana to Ashgabat





Take an epic journey across Central Asia from Astana to Ashgabat
This is a totally epic 37-day adventure through Central Asia – a region combining Silk Road history, Soviet influence, nomadic living and scenic natural beauty. Journey from the shining capital of Astana to the whitewashed Ashgabat, taking your time to savour the nuances of different Stans along the way. Come face to face with the iconic architecture, rub shoulders with locals in the bazaars, stay in yurt camps and stand in front of the ever-burning crater - ‘The Gates of Hell’. Experience life well off the tourist track and explore a region that’s been the confluence of so many cultures and people throughout history – all with highly experienced local leaders by your side.
5.0
1 reviewsStart: Astana, Kazakhstan
End: Ashgabat, Turkmenistan
- Duration
- 37 days
- Group size
- 1 to 12
- Minimum age
- 16 years old
- Style
Basix: Simple accommodation, local transport and lots of free time
Original: Tourist-class hotels, some meals included and a great mix of included activities and free time
Comfort: Comfortable accommodation, with a relaxed pace of travel and many included meals and activities
Premium: Our best accommodation, exclusive inclusions and our most experienced leaders
- Original
- Theme
Our themes categorise trips based on a common interest or activity, while showcasing the highlights of a destination.
- Physical rating
Indicates how physically exerting a trip is, and how fit you will need to be to enjoy it. More info on physical ratings
Why you'll love this trip
- Learn about the Silk Road and its history – see the Registan in Samarkand (one of the pinnacles of Islamic architecture), spend time in UNESCO World Heritage-listed 6th-century Bukhara and uncover the charm of Khiva.
- See the natural landscapes of this corner of the world – travel through the vast Kazakh steppe and the sunken forest of Kolsai Lakes, journey through the mountainous Kyrgyzstan to Issykul Lake and toast to the eternal flames of the Darvaza Crater.
- Experience traditional Central Asian hospitality – learn about the nomadic life in the yurt stays, enjoy hearty home-cooked meals, visit local families, chat with the stall owners in local bazaars and learn about traditional crafts in local workshops.
- Tour the fascinating capitals of the Stans, each with its own unique character and turbulent historical events that shaped them into what they are today.
- Enjoy the journey – take an overnight train in Kazakhstan, hop on fast trains in Uzbekistan, take a 4WD into the desert in Turkmenistan and experience life on the road like the locals do!
Itinerary
Salemetsiz be! Welcome to Kazakhstan. Your adventure begins in Astana with a welcome meeting at 6 pm at your hotel. Astana was purpose-built to become the capital city of Kazakhstan in 1997 and is home to meticulously planned city streets and architecture. The modern metropolis was designed by leading Japanese architect Kisho Kurokawa, who won first prize in a competition against other world-renowned architects. Now, it’s one of the youngest cities in Central Asia. If you arrive early, maybe stroll along the Astana waterfront or go shopping in the world’s largest tent at the Khan Shatyr Entertainment Centre. Tonight, join your leader and group for dinner in town for your first authentic Kazakh food experience.
- Hotel (1 night)
- Dinner
It’s very important that you attend the welcome meeting as we will be collecting insurance and emergency contact details at this time. If you are going to be late please let your travel agent or hotel reception know. Ask reception or look for a note in the lobby for more information on where the meeting will take place.
This morning, join your leader for a city tour around some of the most impressive designs of the new city. Visit Bayterek tower, then stroll down Nur Boulevard to Khan Shatyr – another city landmark in the shape of a giant transparent tent. Visit Nur-Astana Mosque – with its capacity of 5000 worshippers inside and an additional 2000 outside, it’s one of the largest mosques in Central Asia. Then, you'll stop at the Palace of Peace & Reconciliation – a pyramid-shaped conference hall considered Astana's symbolic centre. This afternoon, why not find some horse meat dishes or plov (a popular rice dish with chunks of lamb, onions and carrots) for lunch. After, you’ll met back up with your group and visit a renowned local jeweller and his workshop to learn about his craft.
- Hotel (1 night)
- Breakfast
- Astana - City tour
- Astana - Local Jewler Visit
This morning, take a flight to the historic centre of Kazakhstan, Turkistan – home to more relics and cultural sites than any other place in the country. When you arrive, visit the new Caravan Serai – a complex recently built to model ancient Silk Road trade centres, giving visitors a taste of what life was once like here. With your free time in the late afternoon, you can see the Yasawi Mausoleum, illuminated with vivid colours and patterned exteriors.
- Hotel (1 night)
- Breakfast
- Turkistan – Caravan Serai complex
Your travel time today will be approximately 3 hours.
The flight schedule to Turkistan changes regularly, so your flight time may change. This may change the free time you have in either Astana or Turkistan.
Head out on a city tour this morning, starting with a visit to Khoja Ahmed Yasawi Mausoleum – Kazakhstan’s most iconic building. Built by Tamerlane, it’s said that three visits here are equal to one visit to Mecca. As it’s a religious site, it’s recommended that women wear a headscarf when entering. On the grounds, you'll find a rose garden, monuments, an archaeological museum and a mosque. Leaving the mausoleum, jump in your private transport to Shymkent, stopping at the ancient settlement of Otrar on the way. First excavated in 1969, its history dates back to the first century AD, with remnants of palaces, mosques and bathhouses that can still be seen today. This is also where Genghis Khan's army is said to have fought when the Mongols first invaded Central Asia. Board your overnight train in the evening.
- Overnight Train (1 night)
- Breakfast
- Otrar - Ancient settlement
- Turkistan - Yasui Mausoleum
Your travel time today will be approximately 4 hours and your time on the overnight train will be approximately 11 hours.
You’ll travel in kupe class, which is 4 berths per compartment with a lockable door. There are toilets and hot water for drinks at the end of each carriage. While the aim is to group travellers together, please be aware that compartments are not segregated by gender, and you may be sharing with other non-Intrepid travellers.
Pulling into Alamaty this morning, hop off the train and head out to find some breakfast. Today, you’ll be going on a daytrip to Lake Issyk and Turgen Gorge. Stop at the Issyk Museum – an archaeological reserve dedicated to Kazakh history and Scythian culture (an ancient nomadic people who were particularly skilled in horseback warfare). Continue to Ile-Alatau National Park, where peaceful Lake Issyk sits in the foothills of the surrounding mountains. Relax and refresh on the lakeshore of this stunning spot before carrying on to Turgen Gorge, where a short hike will bring you to a waterfall. On the way back to Almaty, stop by a winery, where you’ll meet with a local craft winemaker and sample some raw wine, craft cheese and tuck into a hearty lunch.
- Hotel (1 night)
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Almaty – Winery visit and wine tasting
- Almaty – Turgen Gorge
- Almaty – Lake Issyk
Your travel time today will be approximately 3 hours.
Please note that Lake Issyk may be out of reach in early spring before May. In this case, you'll skip it and carry on to Turgen Gorge directly.
Today, you’ll take a city tour of Almaty with a local guide. This former capital of Kazakhstan now has a completely different vibrancy to Astana, with its wide tree-lined streets, numerous parks and the view of the snow-capped mountains. Visit Central Square and the colourful Zenkoff Cathedral in Panfilov Park, dedicated to the 28 guardsmen who died defending Moscow against German tanks in WWII. Check out the fascinating Museum of Kazakh Musical Instruments, which features a great collection of ancient relics. Finally, visit Zelenyi Bazaar and experience the vibrant market scene before returning to the hotel to rest and recharge.
- Hotel (1 night)
- Breakfast
- Almaty - Zenkov Cathedral
- Almaty - Panfilov Park
- Almaty - Museum of Kazakh Musical Instruments
- Almaty - Zelenyi Bazaar
This morning, drive to Saty Village, stopping at the spectacular Charyn Canyon along the way. The richly coloured canyon carves a path through the surrounding landscape, with vivid tones of oranges and browns shifting and changing as the sun travels across the sky. Enjoy some time here to marvel at the natural wonder and grab some photos before continuing to Saty Village, where you’ll check into your homestay and experience a taste of local life in the Tien Shan Mountain Range.
- Homestay (1 night)
- Breakfast
- Dinner
- Charyn Canyon - National Park
Your travel time today will be approximately 6 hours.
Your accommodation tonight is a homestay in the village. The group may be split between different houses depending on the group composition. While the rooms are multi-share and the facilities will be basic, but your host’s hospitality will certainly be unforgettable.
This morning, visit Kolsay Lakes, also known as ‘the blue necklace’ for the clear blue waters framed by the mountains. If there’s time, you’ll take a hike to the lesser-known Kaindy Lake – a turquoise lake with a ‘submerged forest’ protruding from the water. Amazingly, the lake was created by an earthquake in 1911 which caused a limestone landslide, creating a natural dam in the forest. As time went on, the dam filled with water and the trees were covered, leaving just their trunks standing in the centre. Enjoy a picnic lunch, then head over the border to Kyrgyzstan, where you’ll continue your journey to Karakol.
- Guest House (1 night)
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Kolsay Lakes National Park - Hiking
Your travel time today will be approximately 3 hours, but may stretch to 6 hours in summer, if the border crossing is slow.
For the keen spirited ones, you may hike a little near the lake, for about 1 hour. For those who prefer not to hike, you may stay back and enjoy the view.
This morning you’ll head out on a city tour of Karakol – once a small Russian military post, then a bustling soviet state, this town is bursting with history. Visit the Dungan Mosque – built in 1910, this colourful mosque was created without the use of a single nail. Instead, the structure was built using special cutting and groove techniques. You’ll also explore the Holy Trinity Orthodox Cathedral and a local market. Then, head out of the city to see the Jety Oguz, also known as Seven Bull Valley, where your leader will take you on a forest hike to a waterfall with panoramic views. Return to Karakol for another restful night.
- Guest House (1 night)
- Breakfast
- Karakol - Dungan Mosque
- Karakol - Holy Trinity Orthodox Cathedral
- Karakol - Jeti Orghuz Canyon Hike
Your travel time today will be approximately 2 hours. Your hiking time will be approximately 2 hours.
Your hike at Jeti Oguz will be about 1 hour.
Today you’ll have a full day's drive to Bishkek, which sits along the northern shore of Issyk Kul – the second largest alpine lake in the world after Lake Titicaca in South America. The views of the landscape are not to be missed, especially your first glimpse of Issyk Kul, surrounded by snow-capped mountains. Along the way, you'll stop at Cholpan Ata to visit a petroglyph's site. Then, take a short boat ride out onto the huge alpine lake to really soak up the beauty of these shimmering waters. In Bishkek, you have a free night, where you might want to head to a final dinner with your group and toast to an amazing adventure.
- Hotel (1 night)
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Cholpon Ata - Petroglyphs
- Lake Issyk-Kul - Boat tour
Your travel time today will be approximately 8 hours.
Today is a free day in Bishkek to explore at your own pace. You’ll have a second welcome meeting at 6 pm tonight to meet the new group members joining you for the next leg of your adventure. Tomorrow, you’ll take a tour of the city, so perhaps take today to rest or ask your leader about any optional activities. Maybe head out in search of some samsa (pastry pockets filled with meat and vegetables). Bishkek is tree-lined town of parks and gardens, handsome houses and wide streets perfect for strolling.
- Hotel (1 night)
- Dinner
As this trip is a combination of shorter itineraries, the travellers in your group and your group leader are likely to change today.
Embark on city tour that showcases the various stages of Bishkek’s history. Visit the severe Ala-Too Square, once known as Lenin Square, and learn about the towering statue depicting folkloric hero Manas. Continue to Dubovy Park, and wander among the open-air galleries before strolling between the century-old oaks along Freedom Avenue. In the afternoon, you'll have some free time to further explore Bishkek. Quite the contrast to the relaxed quiet streets, square and parks in the city centre, Osh Market is noisy, crowded, and a perfect peek into local life. You'll find all kinds of things on sale here, from spices and fruits to clothes and carpets.
- Hotel (1 night)
- Breakfast
- Bishkek - City walking tour
- Bishkek - State Historical Museum - KGS150
This morning, up and on the road through the beautiful landscaps of Kyrgyzstan. You'll be travelling with our vehicle for the next few days so get ready for a road trip through some pretty stunning mountains and lakes. Firstly stop at Burana Tower, a minaret that is the most visible remnant of the ancient city Balasagun. Then continue to Don Aryk and meet a local Kyrgyz family and enjoy a home-cooked lunch. Then onto the destination of today - Issyk-Kul Lake, the second-largest alpine lake in the world. At 170 - kilometres-long and 70-kilometres-wide, her beauty is a real sight to behold. Your yurt camp for tonight is set up along the south shore of the lake where you'll get a fantastic view of the snow-capped mountains setting behind the lake. Made of felt and tarpaulins on a round frame, yurts are the traditional dwellings of the Kyrgyz people and this will be your 'settlement' for today and tomorrow.
- Tourist yurt camp (1 night)
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Shamsy Valley - Burana tower
- Don Aryk - Kyrgyz family visit and home-cooked lunch
Today's travel time is about 4- 5 hours.
Sleeping arrangements tonight are on a multi-share basis with mattresses on the floor, potentially mixed gender sharing depending on the group composition. There will be up to 4 people in one yurt. It can get very chilly in the evenings, so there's a stove for heating and plenty of blankets. Bathroom facilities are located separately from the yurts and are shared on the camp. The conditions here are basic but the stunning view and the unique experience of staying in a yurt is certainly rewarding.
With relaxed plans for today, you'll head out to Kyzyl Tuu - known for yurt making. Almost every family here is a yurt making and the village is known far beyond Kyrgyzstan. You'll visit an artisan family who’ll teach you more about their traditional yurts. With a special workshop, you’ll learn the basics of how these nomadic dwellings have been manufactured and how they play an important role in the community here. Enjoy a free afternoon and evening, relax in your yurt camp, jump into the lake, take a hike or sit back and watch the world goes by.
- Tourist yurt camp (1 night)
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Issyk-Kul Lake - Yurt workshop
Back on the road and travel to Song-Kol Lake, another alpine stunner that is considered a sacred place to many Kyrgyz people, as well as one of the best summer pastures for nomadic herders. On the way, stop at Kochkor to visit the local market and a women's felt co-op. The landscape today will change depending on the season but is sure to be beautiful no matter when you travel. In the summer you might see nomadic herdsmen and their families watching over goats, sheep, and horses. Enjoy exploring your surroundings for the rest of the day, maybe hiking one of the many trails. Tonight, fall asleep in yurts set up along the shore. Tomorrow, those daring enough for an invigorating morning splash can use the lake to wash off the sleep.
- Tourist yurt camp (1 night)
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Kochkor - Market
- Kochkor - Women's Felt Co-op
Today's travel time is approximately 6 hours.
Sleeping arrangements tonight are on a multi-share basis with mattresses on the floor, potentially mixed gender sharing depending on the group composition. There will be up to 4 people in one yurt. It can get very chilly in the evenings, so there's a stove for heating and plenty of blankets. Bathroom facilities are located separately from the yurts and are shared on the camp.
The pass to Song-Kol Lake is open from mid June to mid September. When the road is open, you'll stay at Song-kol Lake tonight. When the road is impassable an alternative destination will be arranged for this day of the trip. In September and October – depending on the temperature – we may only make a daytrip to Song-Kol Lake and return to Kochkor for the night.
Travel along gravel roads to the tiny village of Kyzyl-Oi, which is squeezed between mountains. On the way, pass large coal deposits and travel along the Kokomeren River, which feeds into the Syr Darya. Enjoy a picnic lunch on the banks of the river in the shade of the trees and use your free time to explore the village on arrival. In the evening, learn how the locals cook their favourite snack - Boorsok.
- Guesthouse/Homestay (1 night)
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Kyzyl-Oi - Boorsok Cooking Demonstration
Today's travel time is about 6-7 hours
After heavy rains the road near Kara Keche may be washed out and impassable. When this occurs, you will return to Kochkor from Song-Kul Lake and then drive from there to Kyzyl-Oi. The driving time today will increase for a couple of hours if not taking the original planned route.
We work with a local CBT organization to arrange the homestay tonight. The sleeping arrangement will be multi-share and the the group may be split into different houses of local families.
Get ready for a full-day of driving though big, beautiful landscapes. As the roads in Kyrgyzstan see little regular maintenance, even short distances on a map can take hours. The road crosses the Suusamyr Valley – a high steppe plateau situated at around 2200 metres above sea level. The mountainous surroundings are often dotted with yurts. Continue along the Chychkan River that cuts through the Tien Shan mountain range. Stop here for a while and soak up the amazing scenery. Arrive at tonight's accommodation which is part of the local community based tourism network in Toktogul sometime in the early evening.
- Guesthouse/Homestay (1 night)
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
Today's travel time is about 7 hours.
After breakfast, get ready for another all-day journey to Osh, the second-largest city in Kyrgystan. Stop en route at Uzgen, an ancient trading town and handicrafts centre along the Silk Road. Although much of the ancient city has been destroyed, a minaret and three mosques that have survived remain important examples of medieval Central Asian architecture. Continue to Osh. Located in the Fergana Valley in the south of the country, Osh is often referred to as the 'Capital of the South' and is the oldest city in the country.
- Hotel (1 night)
- Breakfast
- Uzgen - Uzgen Minaret & Complex
Today's travel time is about 6-7 hours
Rise and shine for a visit to the only World Heritage site in Kyrgystan, the Sulaiman-Too Sacred Mountain, also known as Solomon's Throne. For centuries Silk Road travellers have sought out the mountain's caves and their petroglyphs in the belief that they would be blessed with longevity or healthy children. Visit the National Historical and Archaeological Museum Complex. In the afternoon, enjoy some free time in Osh. Perhaps visit the Jayma Bazaar, where you might pick up an interesting souvenir or two. Or maybe take a self-guided tour of the remnants of Osh's soviet past with a walk to the giant Lenin statue in the city square.
- Hotel (1 night)
- Breakfast
- Osh - Sulaiman-Too Mountain
- Osh - National Historical and Archaeological Museum Complex
- Osh - Bazaar - Free
This morning, drive to Kyrgyz-Uzbek border, which is just outside of the city. Transfer to Andijan and board a local train to Tashkent (approximately 5.5 hours). The train is a great place to meet locals, so don’t be surprised if people want to chat to the chet ellik (foreigner). Arrive in the evening and check into the hotel.
- Hotel (1 night)
- Breakfast
Today's travel time is about 6-7 hours. The border crossing can be long and slow.
Begin your introduction to Uzbekistan by exploring the capital today. Follow your leader on a city walking tour - explore Amir Timur square at the city center, then hop on the metro and lose yourself in the exciting Chorsu Bazaar, browsing traditional wooden cradles, handmade musical instruments, and the extensive vegetable and spice markets. Enjoy a free afternoon and maybe go and visit the Khast Imom complex, a restored series of religious buildings (including a mosque) and a library containing an ancient Qur’an, parts of which have been dated to the ninth century, or simply relax and enjoy some well deserved downtime after a busy journey in Kyrgyzstan.
- Hotel (1 night)
- Breakfast
- Tashkent - Chorsu Bazaar
- Tashkent - Amir Timur Square
Please note that in the hot summer months in July and August, your leader may adjust the order of activities in each destination in Uzbekistan to avoid too much time spent in the heat.
Travel to Bukhara by train this morning. Located on the ancient Silk Road, Bukhara was an important regional and world hub for many, many years and has a long, fascinating history featuring invasions by both Genghis Khan and the Soviet Red Army. Explore this fascinating city with your tour leader on an orientation walk after arrival and head to the Lyabi-Haus area, a busy 17th-century plaza with hundreds-years-old trees and there is time to wander the small craft studios tucked into the nearby madrasas and trading domes.
- Hotel (1 night)
- Breakfast
Today's travel time is approximately 6 hours. The included sites visit in Bukhara and Samarkand maybe adjusted in order by the leader depending on the group's preference and time of visits.
Enjoy a day of sightseeing in beautiful Bukhara. First visit the Sitorai Mohi Khosa, once the summer residence of the last Emir. Designed by Russian architects, it has interiors decorated with traditional filigree plaster, mirrored surfaces and delicate floral wall paintings by local artisans, then visit the Ark Fortress, the symbol of Bukhara before getting to one of Central Asia's oldest and most exquisite structures, the tenth-century Ismail Samani Mausoleum, the superb decorative brickwork of which has survived 1000 years of rugged history. Enjoy a free afternoon to explore this ancient Silk Road town. Maybe visit Bolo Haus Mosque, Chor Minor, Kalon Mosque and Minaret, or Ulukbek Madrassah and Abdulaziz Khan Madrassa.
- Hotel (1 night)
- Breakfast
- Bukhara - Sitorai Mohi Hosa Palace
- Bukhara - Ismail Samani Mausoleum
- Bukhara - Ark Fortress
- Bukhara - Kalon Minaret & Mosque - UZS6000
Have a free morning to yourself for some further exploration of Bukhara. In the late afternoon,transfer to the station for train to fabled Samarkand. This city is located at the very centre of the ancient Silk Road. Arrival early evening and follow your leader on a short city orientation walk and maybe an optional dinner together.
- Hotel (1 night)
- Breakfast
- Dinner
- Samarkand - Leader-led orientation walk
Today's travel time is approximately 4 hours.
Enjoy a tour of Samarkand. First up is the central square called the Registan, which features mosques and mausoleums that are true pinnacles of Islamic architecture. Continue to Guri-Amir, where Tamerlane is buried, and then the enormous Bibi-Khanum Mosque. Visit Shak-i-Zinda, a necropolis that features a series of gleaming blue-tiled mausoleums. This sacred site has monuments from the 14th–19th century, reflecting the development of the monumental art and architecture of the Timurid dynasty onwards. It is photo worthy at every turn, just remember to be respectful as pilgrims visit the complex. In the evening, you’ll visit a local family to learn the secrets of plov cuisine during a cooking demonstration in the evening.
- Hotel (1 night)
- Breakfast
- Samarkand - Bibi-Khanym Mosque
- Samarkand - Registan Square
- Samarkand - Shakh-I-Zinda
- Samarkand - Gur-e-Amir Mausoleum
- Samarkand - Plov cooking demonstration & family visit
- Samarkand - Afrosiab Museum - UZS60000
- Samarkand - Ulugbek's Observatory - UZS50000
This morning, take the train back to Tashkent. Enjoy a free afternoon and why not celebrate this great adventure with an optional farewell dinner tonight?
- Hotel (1 night)
- Breakfast
Today's travel time is about 3 hours.
Today is a free day to relax and recharge in Tashkent. Maybe explore any of the mosques you haven’t yet seen, or take a walk among the contemporary architecture. Tonight, you’ll have a third welcome meeting at 6 pm to meet the new travellers joining you on the last leg of your epic adventure.
- Hotel (1 night)
- Breakfast
- Tashkent - Art Gallery of Uzbekistan - UZS50000
- Tashkent - Museum of Applied Arts - UZS60000
As this trip is a combination of shorter itineraries, the travellers in your group and your group leader are likely to change today.
This morning, embark on a city tour to explore Tashkent. Visit the Amir Timur Square in the city’s centre and wander the bustling Chorsu Bazaar. An impressive dome tops the main building here and the market sells everything you could imagine. Explore the decorated metro stations, which were only allowed to be photographed from 2018, and the Khast Imom Complex, which houses one of the oldest copies of Qur'an. Have some free time in the afternoon and maybe stock some snacks for your overnight train tonight.
- Overnight Train (1 night)
- Breakfast
- Tashkent - Chorsu Bazaar
- Tashkent - Khast Imom Complex & Moyie Mubarek Library Museum
- Tashkent - Amir Timur Square
- Tashkent - City tour
- Tashkent - Metro tour
Your travel time on the overnight train will be approximately 13 hours.
It will be a twin share arrangement on the train tonight, in 4-berth cabins. Bathroom facilities are on both sides of the carriage and a sheet, blanket and pillow are provided.
You may wish to bring some snacks or simple food for your time on the train (dinner and breakfast). There's also a dining carriage on the train but the food options may be limited.
Arrive in Khiva mid-morning – many global powers have laid claim to this city over the centuries, from Khans to Silk Road traders and the Soviet Union. Get acquainted with Khiva on a city tour with your leader. See the incredible blue-tiled Kalta Minor Minaret and the Mohammed Amin Khan Madrassa. Explore the Kuhna Ark – the 'citadel within a citadel' that once housed the Khan and his family in the 17th century – then, get a view from above from the Ak-sheikh Baba Observatory. Visit the towering Islom Hoja Minaret – the tallest building in Khiva – and explore the Juma Mosque. Wander through the elaborately decorated courtyards connected by labyrinthian corridors at the Tosh-Hovli Palace and find a good spot to watch the sunset over this ancient city.
- Hotel (1 night)
- Lunch
- Khiva - Islom Hoja Minaret & Medressa
- Khiva - Juma Mosque
- Khiva - Tosh-Hovli Palace
- Khiva - Pahlavon Mahmud Mausoleum
- Khiva - Kuhna Ark
After breakfast today, you’ll have a free day to explore Khiva at your own pace. Home to more than 60 cultural sites, medieval mosques and opulent palaces, there is plenty to see and do in this fascinatingly ancient city. Maybe head to one of the many museums, check out the souvenir shops or wander around one of the craft studios. If you’re not sure where to go and what to see, just ask your leader for tips!
- Hotel (1 night)
- Breakfast
A long travel day today. This morning, say goodbye to Uzbekistan and cross the border into Turkmenistan. After border formalities, you’ll meet your new leader and head on to Dashoguz. When you arrive, visit a local bazaar and stretch your legs. Then, switch into 4WDs and drive on to Derweze – this village in the middle of the Karakum Desert is famous for ‘The Gates of Hell’ – this gas crater is an astounding 70-m-wide, 30-m-deep pit permanently aflame and formally known as the Darvaza Crater. Soviet oil prospectors started drilling in 1971 expecting to find oil, and the ground collapsed. Worried about the gas released into the air, they deliberately set the crater on fire to burn off the excess, expecting it to last a few weeks. As you’ll see today, they were wrong, and the crater has been burning ever since. When you arrive, take a walk around the crater and learn about the flora and fauna of the desert. Watch the sunset over the flames from your nearby yurt camp and enjoy a picnic dinner
- Yurt Camp (1 night)
- Breakfast
- Dinner
- Darvaza - "Door to Hell" Crater
Your travel time today will be approximately 12 hours, including border crossing, stops and breaks.
The border crossing can take 2 to 3 hours, depending on the volume of people crossing. A lot of patience is required with this process and it can be lengthy. You'll say goodbye to your Uzbekistan leader, and your Turkmenistan leader will meet you on the other side of the border. A transfer at the border will be organised by the border authorities, and you'll need to pay 1 USD on each side for this transfer. Please note that Intrepid has no control over the border crossing process, and this is the nature of travelling in this unknown part of the world.
The road conditions to Darvaza Crater are rough and bumpy, but there's no alternative route. Depending on the group size, the group may be split into more than one vehicle for the journey.
You'll sleep in yurt camps set up here tonight. There will be about 4-6 people sharing one yurt and there's only basic shared facilities. It may be a basic stay tonight but it'll be an unique experience staying in the traditional yurt camp in the desert.
Drive to Nohur Village via Ashgabat today, through the desert and into the Kopet Dag Mountains that separate Turkmenistan from Iran. On the way, you’ll stop to stretch your legs and take photos with visits to a mud crater, a water crater and the Yerbent Nomad Village. When you arrive in Ashgabat, stop for lunch and change to minibuses for the dusty winding roads to Nohur Village. When you arrive at your guesthouse in the afternoon, you’ll watch how the locals weave Keteni – a homespun silk fabric. Maybe take a walk to see the distinctive local graves, marked by the horns of mountain goats, and then along the shepherd’s trails that pass by waterfalls and swimming holes. Tonight, you’ll have a traditional dinner home-cooked by your hosts.
- Guest House (1 night)
- Breakfast
- Dinner
- Yerbent - Village visit
Your travel time today will be approximately 6 hours.
Tonight, you’ll stay in local guest houses. They don’t have beds, so you’ll be sleeping on the floor on a mattress with blankets and pillows provided. There will be 4 people sharing one room at the guest house. The amenities are simple, with a toilet and shower outside.
Enjoy a traditional breakfast in the guesthouse this morning, then head out to learn more about the village lifestyle of local Turkmen tribes. You’ll meet with the residents here who are a part of the Nohur ethnic group, who consider themselves to be descendants of Alexander the Great. Wander around the tribes’ cemetery, overgrown and equipped with the mountain goat horns, and learn about the peoples’ customs, traditions and spirituality. After, visit Gyz Bibi Cave – a place of local pilgrimage. See an 800-year-old Cynar tree – more than 800 years old tree, then say goodbye to the village and head on to Ashgabat. Along the way, you’ll visit a local horse breeder’s farm for a cooking demonstration of Baursaki. Watch the process of frying the dough in oil, then maybe try it out for yourself! Watch how their bread is cooked in a tandoor (a mud oven), then sit down with your host to enjoy some of the treats as you learn about his family and his passion for Akhal-Teke horses – this breed of horse is specific to the region and have a reputation for their speed, endurance, intelligence and distinctive metallic sheen. Later, continue to Ashgabat, where you’ll spend the night.
- Hotel (1 night)
- Breakfast
- Nohur - Village walking tour
- Geokdepe - Horse breeder visit with bread & snack cooking demostration
Your travel time today will be approximately 3 hours.
Take a full day to wrap your head around this desert city on an immersive guided tour. First, visit the ancient settlement of Nisa, built in the 3rd century BC. See the Halk Hakydasy Memorial Complex, built to honour those killed in the Battle of Geok Tepe in 1881, in World War II and in the 1948 earthquake. Then, head out of town to the ruins of Anau. The crumbling remains of the 15th century medieval mosque still attracts the devout, who come to pray and make offerings. Wander the Russian Bazaar to see locals doing their daily shopping and maybe taste some samosas, doner-kebabs and sweet melon! See the local Turkmen’s handmade souvenirs and maybe choose something special to bring home. This afternoon, take in the four-pointed martinets of the Ertugrul Gazi Mosque. You’ll then have some free time to relax and recharge before an evening visit to the monuments of Archabil Street, including the Neutrality Arch.
- Hotel (1 night)
- Breakfast
- Ashgabat - Anau ruins
- Ashgabat - Neutrality Arch
- Ashgabat - Ertugrul Gazi Mosque
- Ashgabat - City tour
- Ashgabat - Nisa ruins
- Ashgabat - Russian Bazaar
Rise and shine for the drive to Mary (pronounced ‘Mah-rih’) – the somewhat ostentatious displays of wealth in this city can be traced to the long-running gas and cotton industries. When you arrive, settle into your hotel, then head out to wander through the lively bazaar with your leader. Take drive out to Merv, also known as Margiana or Margush, and enjoy some time exploring Turkmenistan's most recognised site. This sprawling UNESCO World Heritage site is home to numerous walled structures from various periods spread across a 1200-hectare area. See impressive columns smoothed by wind and time at the Greater Kizkala and walk hills that were once the fortress walls of Erk Kala. While not the most impressive visually, Gyaur Kala dates to 400 BC and has a fascinating history. Spend some time exploring these relics of grand empires, then return to Mary for some free time. Maybe visit the Mary Regional Museum. Housed in a palace of white marble, the museum features archaeological displays and exhibitions on traditional Turkmen life and culture.
- Hotel (1 night)
- Breakfast
- Merv - Sultan Sanjar Mausoleum
- Merv - Erk Kala & Gayur Kala
- Merv - Big & Small Kizkala
Your travel time today will be approximately 5.5 hours.
This morning after breakfast, head out to see the local Orthodox Church and take some more time wandering around Mary’s city center, before returning to Ashgabat – the City of White Marble. Arrive late afternoon and head out again as the sun goes down to walk along the promenade with your group. Maybe find somewhere for dinner and celebrate your final night on this incredible adventure.
- Hotel (1 night)
- Breakfast
- Mary - City tour
Your travel time today will be approximately 4 hours.
With no further activities planned, your trip comes to an end today after breakfast. If you need help with organising a transfer to the airport, just speak to your leader.
- Breakfast
Inclusions and activities
34 breakfasts, 9 lunches, 11 dinners
Private Vehical, Metro, Train, Overnight Train, Plane, 4X4
Guesthouse/Homestay (6 night), Hotel (24 nights), Yurt (4 nights), Overnight train (2 nights)
- Astana - City tour
- Astana - Local Jewler Visit
- Turkistan – Caravan Serai complex
- Otrar - Ancient settlement
- Turkistan - Yasui Mausoleum
- Almaty – Winery visit and wine tasting
- Almaty – Turgen Gorge
- Almaty – Lake Issyk
- Almaty - Zenkov Cathedral
- Almaty - Panfilov Park
- Almaty - Museum of Kazakh Musical Instruments
- Almaty - Zelenyi Bazaar
- Charyn Canyon - National Park
- Kolsay Lakes National Park - Hiking
- Karakol - Dungan Mosque
- Karakol - Holy Trinity Orthodox Cathedral
- Karakol - Jeti Orghuz Canyon Hike
- Cholpon Ata - Petroglyphs
- Lake Issyk-Kul - Boat tour
- Bishkek - City walking tour
- Shamsy Valley - Burana tower
- Don Aryk - Kyrgyz family visit and home-cooked lunch
- Issyk-Kul Lake - Yurt workshop
- Kochkor - Market
- Kochkor - Women's Felt Co-op
- Kyzyl-Oi - Boorsok Cooking Demonstration
- Uzgen - Uzgen Minaret & Complex
- Osh - Sulaiman-Too Mountain
- Osh - National Historical and Archaeological Museum Complex
- Tashkent - Chorsu Bazaar
- Tashkent - Amir Timur Square
- Bukhara - Sitorai Mohi Hosa Palace
- Bukhara - Ismail Samani Mausoleum
- Bukhara - Ark Fortress
- Samarkand - Leader-led orientation walk
- Samarkand - Bibi-Khanym Mosque
- Samarkand - Registan Square
- Samarkand - Shakh-I-Zinda
- Samarkand - Gur-e-Amir Mausoleum
- Samarkand - Plov cooking demonstration & family visit
- Tashkent - Khast Imom Complex & Moyie Mubarek Library Museum
- Tashkent - City tour
- Tashkent - Metro tour
- Khiva - Islom Hoja Minaret & Medressa
- Khiva - Juma Mosque
- Khiva - Tosh-Hovli Palace
- Khiva - Pahlavon Mahmud Mausoleum
- Khiva - Kuhna Ark
- Darvaza - "Door to Hell" Crater
- Yerbent - Village visit
- Nohur - Village walking tour
- Geokdepe - Horse breeder visit with bread & snack cooking demostration
- Ashgabat - Anau ruins
- Ashgabat - Neutrality Arch
- Ashgabat - Ertugrul Gazi Mosque
- Ashgabat - City tour
- Ashgabat - Nisa ruins
- Ashgabat - Russian Bazaar
- Merv - Sultan Sanjar Mausoleum
- Merv - Erk Kala & Gayur Kala
- Merv - Big & Small Kizkala
- Mary - City tour
- Bishkek - State Historical Museum - KGS150
- Osh - Bazaar - Free
- Bukhara - Kalon Minaret & Mosque - UZS6000
- Samarkand - Afrosiab Museum - UZS60000
- Samarkand - Ulugbek's Observatory - UZS50000
- Tashkent - Art Gallery of Uzbekistan - UZS50000
- Tashkent - Museum of Applied Arts - UZS60000
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Is this trip right for you?
- This trip covers a lot of ground in an epic 37-day journey. It is for those who are keen to travel in depth in the region and understand each country through a variety of destinations rather than only ticking off the iconic sites. It’s suitable for experienced travellers who want see an unknown part of the world. You’ll need to be reasonably fit to enjoy this epic adventure.
- In true adventure style, the trip involves some long travel days by private vehicle. The road may be bumpy and dusty, but the experience and the journey will be rewarding. This is a great opportunity to sit back, unwind and let the sweeping views roll by. Drives range from 3 to 10 hours in duration. Though the longer travel days and single-night overnight stays can be tiring, you'll be in a private vehicle for the majority of the trip, and much of the scenery in this part of the world is simply stunning.
- You’ll experience varying temperatures in the desert and out on the steppe or in the mountains from below zero to over 40 ºC, so check the weather forecast online before you visit and pack accordingly.
- Tourism is strictly controlled in Turkmenistan, with Letters of Invitation needed in advance in order to apply for your visa (which you can then get on arrival) and guides tending to be protective of what tourists see and fiercely proud of their nation and its leaders. You are not allowed to travel on your own without a guide while you are in Turkmenistan either. Those used to more freedom of exploration and tour guides with a more global perspective may find their experience here different from in other destinations. Please see the ‘Passport and visas’ section of the Essential Trip Information for more details.
- Be prepared to experience the full legacy of the Soviet era – not just in the sights and history, but also in the standards of accommodation and service! A range of different accommodations are used on this trip, including yurt camp, home stay, guesthouse, hotels and camping. The conditions at the yurt stays and the home stays are basic with shared facilities. This means the group being split between different houses, multi-share rooms/yurts and the bathroom facilities are separated from your sleeping quarters. You won't be able to take a shower every day on this trip.
- This trip is a combination of 3 trips. Please review the Itinerary for details of when your fellow travellers and leader will change.
- This trip covers a lot of ground in an epic 37-day journey. It is for those who are keen to travel in depth in the region and understand each country through a variety of destinations rather than only ticking off the iconic sites. It’s suitable for experienced travellers who want see an unknown part of the world. You’ll need to be reasonably fit to enjoy this epic adventure.
- In true adventure style, the trip involves some long travel days by private vehicle. The road may be bumpy and dusty, but the experience and the journey will be rewarding. This is a great opportunity to sit back, unwind and let the sweeping views roll by. Drives range from 3 to 10 hours in duration. Though the longer travel days and single-night overnight stays can be tiring, you'll be in a private vehicle for the majority of the trip, and much of the scenery in this part of the world is simply stunning.
- You’ll experience varying temperatures in the desert and out on the steppe or in the mountains from below zero to over 40 ºC, so check the weather forecast online before you visit and pack accordingly.
- Tourism is strictly controlled in Turkmenistan, with Letters of Invitation needed in advance in order to apply for your visa (which you can then get on arrival) and guides tending to be protective of what tourists see and fiercely proud of their nation and its leaders. You are not allowed to travel on your own without a guide while you are in Turkmenistan either. Those used to more freedom of exploration and tour guides with a more global perspective may find their experience here different from in other destinations. Please see the ‘Passport and visas’ section of the Essential Trip Information for more details.
- Be prepared to experience the full legacy of the Soviet era – not just in the sights and history, but also in the standards of accommodation and service! A range of different accommodations are used on this trip, including yurt camp, home stay, guesthouse, hotels and camping. The conditions at the yurt stays and the home stays are basic with shared facilities. This means the group being split between different houses, multi-share rooms/yurts and the bathroom facilities are separated from your sleeping quarters. You won't be able to take a shower every day on this trip.
- This trip is a combination of 3 trips. Please review the Itinerary for details of when your fellow travellers and leader will change.
Dates and prices
Important notes
1. A single supplement is bookable if you’d prefer not to share a room on this trip. The single supplement excludes Day 4 & 7, Day 13-17, Day 28, 31 & 32, where you will be in shared accommodation. Single supplement is subject to availability. Please speak to your booking agent for further information.
2. Please provide your passport details including full name exactly as per passport at the time of booking (including any middle names listed on your passport) for flight and train tickets booking no later than 45 days prior to departure. Fees may apply for amendments or failure to provide the required details within 45 days of departure.
3. This is a multi-country trip. Please read the visa section of the Essential Trip Information carefully for the visa requirement. You'll need to travel with one passport throughout the trip as using different passport for exiting and then entering a different country may cause issue at the immigration. Visa for Turkmenistan requires a Letter of Invitation in advance which needs to be organized by our local operator. Essential documents for the letter of invitation should be submitted no later than 60 days before the trip.
4. Independent travel is not allowed in Turkmenistan. If you have pre trip accommodation booked with us, you won't be allowed to leave your hotel without a guide in Ashgabat. Please consult with your booking agent if you need to book pre-trip accommodation in Ashgabat.
Want an in-depth insight into this trip? Essential Trip Information provides a detailed itinerary, visa info, how to get to your hotel, what's included - pretty much everything you need to know about this adventure and more.
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