1-855-602-7447
Experts available 7 days a week!
Hotels & Resort Deals
Select a destination...
View All Hotels & Resort Deals
Vacation Interests
Miscellaneous
Tours By Type
Tour Deals
Select a destination...
View All Tour Deals
Cruises From
Vacation Interests
Career Discounts
Featured Destinations
Select a destination for info and deals...
Destination Ports
Cruises sailing in each region...
- Transfer Your Booking To Us
- Book Shore Excursions
- Book Land Tours
- Save on Passport & Visa Services
-
![Arrow]()
View All Customer Service Resources
Saving Tools
- Access Reservation (web-made bookings only)
- Make a Payment
- Add Travel Insurance
- Pre-Cruise Registration
For Existing Reservations
- Land Vacation FAQs
- Cruise FAQs
- Cruise Port Directions
- Contact Us
Useful Links
Signature: The Five Stans & The Heart Of The Silk Road
-
Length
19 Days
-
Quality
This indicates the overall quality of the tour operator's products. A low rating does not mean it is not good - it just means that it does not include as much, or perhaps is of a more standard quality than the higher quality tours. For example, a 3 star quality rating means that it is a more standard/economical tour, while 5 stars is a very luxurious tour that often includes a lot of amenities. -
Starts in
Bishkek (Kyrgyzstan)
-
Ends in
Ashgabat (Turkmenistan)
-
Available Tour Start Dates
APR 13, 2027 to NOV 6, 2027
-
Activity Level
Easy
-
Style
Fully-Guided
-
Guaranteed Date(s)
Yes means that there is at least one tour date that the vendor guarantees will occur. No means that there is not at least one tour date that the vendor guarantees will occur, which usually means that the vendor wants a certain amount of reservations on each tour in order for each one to occur. Of course, the terms and conditions of the vendor do allow for the vendor to cancel guaranteed tour dates for certain reasons (for example, a natural disaster).Yes
-
Special Interest(s)
National Geographic Signature
Exceptional exploration led by renowned experts, offering rare, private access to the world's most storied sites - all defined by an unparalleled level of service and comfort., Small GroupGroup trips average 12 travellers per departure, depending on the adventure. The maximum is usually no more than 16, but some can be smaller or bigger, depending on the trip. Check individual trips for details.
From
Pricing listed is per person, based on double occupancy, and is the least expensive price for at least one departure date of this tour. Price is for the tour only. Additional items, including but not limited to, airfare (unless noted otherwise), travel insurance, and more, are additional.
$11,599.00
Contact Us for a Special Price!
Overview
Trace the legends of the Silk Road across five nations. From the snow-capped Tian Shan mountains to the monuments of Tashkent, connect with the living soul of Central Asia. Experience exclusive museum access, master the art of Uzbek plov, and tour top-secret science facilities on an expedition defined by discovery and depth.
Visited During Tour
Almaty (Kazakhstan) | Ashgabat (Turkmenistan) | Bishkek (Kyrgyzstan) | Bukhara (Uzbekistan) | Dushanbe (Tajikistan) | Khiva (Uzbekistan) | Samarkand (Uzbekistan) | Tashkent (Uzbekistan)
Dates, Offers & Prices
Tour Itinerary
Accommodations
More Details
Dates, Offers & Prices
The following are Signature: The Five Stans & The Heart Of The Silk Road tour dates available from G Adventures. Select a bonus offer graphic to view its details, including its terms.
Tour Itinerary
G Adventures Tour Code AYIANS-11196
-
Day
1Bishkek
Welcome to the Silk Road. Your expedition begins as you touch down in Bishkek, the capital of Kyrgyzstan, framed by the snow-capped Tian Shan mountains. You will be met at the airport and transferred to your hotel. In the evening, gather with your National Geographic Expedition Leader and fellow travellers. An engaging presentation sets the historical stage for the journey ahead, followed by a hearty dinner at a traditional restaurant to mark the start of your Central Asian exploration.
- Meals Included:
- Dinner
Exclusive Inclusions:
Arrival Transfer
You will be met at the airport and transferred to the hotel to start your adventure.
Welcome Moment - Meet Your Expedition Leader and Group
The adventure begins tonight. Feel free to explore before your welcome meeting, but make sure you're back in time to meet the group. Check for the meeting time on the welcome note at the hotel and enjoy a welcome reception with wine, beer, and appetizers, followed by an orientation and an expert-led "Introduction to the Silk Road" presentation in the conference room before departing for the Welcome Dinner.
Welcome Dinner in Bishkek
Transfer to a traditional local restaurant for an included 3-course Welcome Dinner.
Accommodations: Hyatt Regency Bishkek -
Day
2Bishkek
Begin with a deep dive into conservation. Attend a presentation by a National Geographic Explorer from the Snow Leopard Foundation, learning about the critical efforts to protect these elusive "ghosts of the mountains." Continue with a walking tour of Bishkek, strolling through the leafy Oak Park and standing before the imposing Soviet-era architecture of Parliament and Victory Square. In the evening, immerse yourself in Kyrgyz culture at the Supara Ethno-Complex. Savor authentic dishes while watching vivid demonstrations of traditional clothing and elaborate headdresses, celebrating the nation's nomadic heritage.
- Meals Included:
- Breakfast
- Dinner
Exclusive Inclusions:
National Geographic Expert Discussion about the Snow Leopard Foundation
Gain a deeper understanding of local conservation through a session with a National Geographic grantee from the Snow Leopard Foundation.
Bishkek City Walking Tour
Explore the city's cultural and historical landmarks by foot, including Panfilov Park, Oak Park, Victory Square, and the iconic Lenin Statue. For this walking tour, comfortable shoes are recommended and short rest stops and photo breaks will be arranged along the route.
Free time in Bishkek
Enjoy free time to explore Bishkek at leisure.
Traditional Kyrgyz Dinner & Cultural Demonstration
Enjoy an immersive visit to the Supara Ethno-Complex to savor authentic Kyrgyz cuisine alongside engaging demonstrations of traditional clothing and women's headdresses.
Accommodations: Hyatt Regency Bishkek -
Day
3Bishkek/Almaty
Depart Bishkek driving through the foothills of the Tian Shan mountains, watching the landscape shift from city to steppe. Arrive at the UNESCO-listed Burana Complex to explore the ancient minaret and the field of balbals (stone warrior statues). Continue to a nearby village for some regional hospitality at a home-hosted Kyrgyz lunch. Here, witness traditions that define the nomadic spirit. In the evening, fly to Almaty, Kazakhstan, settling in for the next chapter of the expedition.
- Meals Included:
- Breakfast
- Lunch
Exclusive Inclusions:
Private Vehicle
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Burana Tower Visit
Visit the historical site of Burana and climb the stairs to check out the view from the top. A large minaret, along with some grave markers and remnants of a castle and mausoleums, are all that remain of the 9th century city of Balasagun.
Lunch and Village Immersion with Nomadic Traditions
Enjoy a home-hosted Kyrgyz lunch paired with demonstrations of eagle hunting and Uluk Tartysh (kok-boru) that offers an authentic window into nomadic culture, hospitality, and daily life.
Private Vehicle
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Plane
Look! Up in the sky! It's a bird! It's a plane! It's... yup, it is a plane, actually.
Private Vehicle
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Accommodations: Rixos Almaty Hotel -
Day
4Almaty
Discover the cultural heart of Kazakhstan with a guided tour of Almaty. Stand in Republic Square beneath the Independence Monument, a symbol of national identity. Stroll through the serene Panfilov Park to admire the candy-colored Zenkov Cathedral, one of the world's tallest wooden buildings, constructed without a single nail. Dive into the sensory evoking Green Bazaar, smelling the spices and tasting local cheeses. Conclude the day with an authentic Kazakh dinner at a restaurant tucked into a traditional yurt, feeling the heart of nomadic culture.
- Meals Included:
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
Exclusive Inclusions:
Expert Discussion: Almaty
Begin with an expert session before a guided tour of Almaty's most important landmarks.
Almaty City Tour
Get to know Almaty on a city tour, visiting the most stunning sights. Stop by the colourful Ascension Cathedral, constructed entirely of wood without the use of any nails. It survived an earthquake in 1911 and continues to stand today. Walk through Panfilov's Park and the historical part of the city. Visit the new part of Almaty known as Independence Square, and stop by the WWII Memorial.
Central State Museum of the Republic of Kazakhstan
Once within the Almaty Cathedral and now in a beautiful Kazakh building lives one of the largest museums in Central Asia, the Central State Museum of the Republic of Kazakhstan. Here you will find an incredible and significant collection of historic Kazakh archaeological, cultural and political artifacts.
Kazakh Dinner in Traditional Yurt
Conclude the day with an incredible dinner at a locally renowned restaurant located in a traditional-style Kazakh yurt, offering an authentic taste of Kazakh cuisine in a culturally rich setting.
Accommodations: Rixos Almaty Hotel -
Day
5Almaty
Experience pre-opening access to the Issyk State Historical and Cultural Reserve Museum. Join a curator for a private talk on the "Golden Man," a suit of Scythian armor from the 4th century BC that rivals the treasures of Tutankhamun. In the afternoon, travel to the Huns Ethno Village for an experience of living history. Watch traditional horse handling and craft demonstrations that bring the nomadic past to life. Enjoy a home-style lunch in a yurt before returning to Almaty for a free evening.
- Meals Included:
- Breakfast
- Lunch
Exclusive Inclusions:
Private Vehicle
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
“Golden Man” Experience at Issyk State Historical and Cultural Reserve Museum
Enjoy pre-opening access to the Issyk State Historical & Cultural Reserve Museum, including a curator-led talk on the famed Scythian "Golden Man" and the archaeology of the Issyk Valley.
Huns Ethno Village Visit and Lunch
Transfer to Hunns Ethno Village to witness traditional demonstrations such as horse handling, nomadic crafts, and cultural customs that bring Kazakhstan's heritage to life before a lunch with local cuisine in a yurt-style restaurant.
Private Vehicle
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Free Time in Almaty
During your free time, relax at your hotel or explore your surroundings.
Accommodations: Rixos Almaty Hotel -
Day
6Almaty/Dushanbe
Fly south to Dushanbe, the leafy capital of Tajikistan. Upon arrival, embark on a guided tour of the city's cultural landmarks. Stand in Somoni Square beneath the golden statue of Ismoil Somoni, the father of the Tajik nation, and visit the grand Main Mosque. As evening falls, gather for a traditional Tajik welcome dinner at Zaytun. Savor a three-course meal of salads, hearty mains, and local desserts, offering a warm culinary introduction to the hospitality of Tajikistan.
- Meals Included:
- Breakfast
- Dinner
Exclusive Inclusions:
Private Vehicle
Look! Up in the sky! It's a bird! It's a plane! It's... yup, it is a plane, actually.
Plane
Look! Up in the sky! It's a bird! It's a plane! It's... yup, it is a plane, actually.
Private Vehicle
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Guided City Tour of Dushanbe
Visit the highlights of the capital city of Tajikistan on a guided tour, seeing the Somoniy Square, Navruz Palace and the main Mosque of Dushanbe.
Traditional Tajik Welcome Dinner
Enjoy a warm culinary introduction to Tajik cuisine.
Accommodations: Crown Plaza Dushanbe -
Day
7Dushanbe
Delve into ancient history at the National Museum of Antiquities. Join an archaeologist for a session focused on the influence of Buddhism in Central Asia, viewing rare artifacts including a massive reclining Buddha. Travel to the 2,500-year-old Hissor Fortress, once a strategic stop on the Silk Road. The day becomes intimate with a visit to a local craftsman's home. Watch bread baking in a traditional tandoor and learn to prepare qurutob, the national dish, before sharing the home-cooked lunch with the family.
- Meals Included:
- Breakfast
- Lunch
Exclusive Inclusions:
National Museum of Antiquities of Tajikistan
Connect with Tajikistan's unique history at the National Museum of Antiquities of Tajikistan. Join a local archeologist and learn about Buddhism in Central Asia.
Private Vehicle
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Historic Hissor Fortress & Madrasah
Visit the 2,500-year-old Hissor Fortress, once a strategic Silk Road stronghold, and explore its surrounding madrasah - a powerful window into Tajikistan's ancient trade routes and defensive history.
Local Family Visit & Cultural Experience
Step into the daily life of a Tajik craftsman family and discover local embroidery, watch traditional bread-making and Kurutoba preparation, and enjoy a home-cooked lunch for an intimate, immersive cultural experience.
Free time in Dushanbe
Return to Dushanbe for free time to explore at your own pace.
Accommodations: Crown Plaza Dushanbe -
Day
8Dushanbe/Tashkent
Fly to Tashkent, the capital of Uzbekistan. Discover the city's unique blend of Islamic and Soviet heritage. Descend into the Tashkent metro, where each station is seemingly an underground palace adorned with chandeliers and mosaics. Visit the Monument of Courage, dedicated to the resilience of the city after the 1966 earthquake. The expedition concludes on a high note: gather for a cocktail reception and farewell dinner at Koinot Restaurant, perched atop the soaring Tashkent TV Tower. Toast your adventure with panoramic views of the city glittering below.
- Meals Included:
- Breakfast
- Dinner
Exclusive Inclusions:
Private Vehicle
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Plane
Look! Up in the sky! It's a bird! It's a plane! It's... yup, it is a plane, actually.
Guided City Tour of Tashkent
Visit the city's highlights with a local guide. Ride the Russian-esque metro, visit the religious centre of the city and the famous Soviet Monuments. Wander the neighbourhood streets, learn about daily life, the Uzbek people and history of the city.
Expert Wrap-Up & Farewell Dinner at the TV Tower
Conclude the journey with an evening cocktail, expert wrap-up presentation, and a 3-course farewell dinner at Koinot Restaurant atop the Tashkent TV Tower, offering panoramic city views.
Accommodations: Lotte City Tashkent Palace Hotel -
Day
9Tashkent
Travel into the hills outside Tashkent to witness a marvel of Soviet engineering at the Institute of the Sun. Stand before the world's largest solar furnace, a futuristic array of 62 colossal mirrors that focus light into a beam of intense heat. Explore the facility with your expedition leader, learning about its top-secret past and its role in renewable energy research - a surreal contrast to the ancient history you've explored. Return to the city to engage your senses at the Plov Museum. Watch master chefs prepare Uzbekistan's national dish in giant kazans (cauldrons), smelling the cumin and garlic before savoring a hearty lunch of rice, tender lamb, and vegetables. Spend the afternoon relaxing at your hotel before the next chapter of your expedition begins.
- Meals Included:
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
Exclusive Inclusions:
Private Vehicle
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
The Institute of Sun Visit
Visit the famous Institute of Sun and see its incredible architecture. The coolest part is seeing the blue sky and the mountains in the reflection of the giant mirrors covering the Solar Furnace. Don't forget your camera!
Private Vehicle
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Plov Museum
Savor a delicious lunch highlighting Uzbekistan's iconic national dish, plov! At the Plov Museum in Tashkent, enjoy a cultural setting dedicated to one of the country's most beloved culinary traditions.
Welcome Moment and Dinner - Meet Your Expedition Leader and Group
Enjoy a curated welcome moment with wine, beer, and appetizers, followed by an expert-led "Introduction to the Silk Road" presentation to set the context for the journey ahead. After, conclude the day with an included welcome dinner and settle into the spirit of Central Asia.
Accommodations: Lotte City Tashkent Palace Hotel -
Day
10Tashkent
Dive into the historic soul of Tashkent at the Hasti Imam complex, the spiritual center of the city. Stand in the quiet library to view the Uthman Quran, one of the oldest in the world, stained with the blood of the third Caliph. Then, immerse yourself in the lively Chorsu Bazaar. Wander beneath its massive blue-tiled dome, inhaling the scent of cumin and freshly baked non bread as you navigate stalls piled high with dried apricots and almonds. In the afternoon, visit the Rakhimov Family Art Studio. Meet a multigenerational family of ceramic masters, and learn about their use of natural dyes and the revival of ancient glazing techniques. Watch as they transform raw clay into intricate works of art, preserving a heritage that dates back centuries.
- Meals Included:
- Breakfast
- Lunch
Exclusive Inclusions:
Private Vehicle
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Historic Tashkent & Sacred Sites Visit
Explore the Old Town, including Hasti Imam Mosque and the Museum of the Koran, the spiritual center of Tashkent and home to important Islamic relics.
Chorsu Bazaar Immersion
Transfer from Old Town to experience the energy of Central Asia's largest historic market - from the bustling produce halls to the traditional nan bakeries, with opportunities to sample fresh bread and shop for local fruits and nuts.
Rakhimov Family Art Studio Visit
Visit the Rakhimov Family Art Studio to visit a renowned multigenerational ceramics family and learn about natural dye techniques, traditional craftsmanship, and Uzbek artistic heritage.
Free Time
After lunch at a local restaurant, enjoy free time in the afternoon to explore the city of Tashkent at leisure.
Accommodations: Lotte City Tashkent Palace Hotel1Optional Activities for Day 10
Show -
Day
11Tashkent/Samarkand
Board a high-speed train, watching the landscape shift to the fertile plains of Samarkand, the jewel of the Silk Road. Stand in awe at Registan Square, a symphony of majolica and azure mosaics. Feel dwarfed by the colossal madrasahs that frame the plaza, their facades shimmering in the sun. Walk the avenue of mausoleums at the Shahi Zinda necropolis, where every surface is covered in turquoise tilework. The evening is free to rest or head out to catch the Registan Square light show.
- Meals Included:
- Breakfast
- Lunch
Exclusive Inclusions:
Train
Climb aboard, take a seat, and enjoy the ride.
Guided Tour of Samarkand
Join an in-depth guided visit to Registan Square and its three iconic madrasahs to get acquainted with teh city of Samarkand.
Architectural Wonders of Samarkand
Visit two of the city's most important spiritual and historical sites - the Shahi Zinda necropolis and the Bibi Khanum Mosque - showcasing the grandeur of Timurid architecture.
Accommodations: Kosh Havuz Boutique Hotel1Optional Activities for Day 11
Show -
Day
12Samarkand
Leave the city for the rolling hills of Tersak Village to connect with the heart of Uzbekistan. Join a local family in their courtyard kitchen to knead dough and bake savory samsas in a traditional clay tandoor oven. As the scent of baking bread fills the air, share the warm, home-cooked lunch you helped prepare, exchanging stories of daily life. Return to the city to visit the Afrasiab Museum, located on the site of ancient Samarkand. View rare 7th-century murals that survived the Mongol conquest, revealing a pre-Islamic world of Zoroastrian rituals and royal procession, gaining archaeological context for the empire you are exploring. The day ends with after-hours access to the Guri Emir Mausoleum-step beneath the gold-leafed dome to stand before Tamerlane's jade tomb. A local professor leads a discussion on the legacy of the conqueror who built this empire, bringing the history to life in the hush of the sanctuary.
- Meals Included:
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
Exclusive Inclusions:
Private Vehicle
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Tersak Village Visit
Visit a local family in Tersak to experience genuine village life, followed by a hands-on bread and samosa making lunch in their home.
Private Vehicle
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Afrasiab Museum of Samarkand Visit
Discover Samarkand's ancient roots at the Afrasiab Museum, showcasing artifacts and murals from the region's earliest history.
After-Hours at the Guri Emir Mausoleum
Enjoy exclusive after-hours access to the Guri Emir Mausoleum, enriched by a discussion led by a local history professor on the legacy of Tamerlane and the Timurid Dynasty.
Accommodations: Kosh Havuz Boutique Hotel -
Day
13Samarkand/Bukhara
Take the high-speed train across the Kyzylkum Desert to Bukhara, a city that feels like an open-air museum frozen in time. Walk the dust-swept streets to the Ark Fortress, the massive citadel that once housed the Emirs. Stand beneath the intricate brickwork of the Ismail Samanid Mausoleum and gaze up at the towering Kalyan Minaret, a structure so beautiful that Genghis Khan spared it from destruction. In the evening, roll up your sleeves for a hands-on masterclass with a local chef. Learn the precise rhythm of chopping carrots and layering rice to create plov, Uzbekistan's beloved national dish. Savor the fruits of your labor for dinner, tasting the rich history of the Silk Road in every bite.
- Meals Included:
- Breakfast
- Dinner
Exclusive Inclusions:
Train
Climb aboard, take a seat, and enjoy the ride.
Guided Exploration of Bukhara's Icons
Visit the city's most significant landmarks - the Ismail Samanid Mausoleum, Ark Fortress, and the towering Kalyan Minaret - experiencing the architectural and cultural depth of this UNESCO city.
Plov Cooking Class and Dinner
Visit a local family and learn how to make Plov, a traditional dish found all throughout Central Asia that varies from country to country and household to household. In Uzbekistan, it's most often a combination of rice, carrots, onions and lamb cooked in a massive cast iron, wok-like pan. Enjoy the delicious results for dinner.
Accommodations: Devon Hotel -
Day
14Bukhara
Begin at the sacred Naqshbandiy Mausoleum, a serene pilgrimage site for the Sufi order. Walk the peaceful courtyards, learning about the spiritual teachings of 'heart with God, hands in work' that define the region's faith. Continue to Sitorai Mohi-Khosa, the Emir's Summer Palace, to admire its eclectic blend of Russian mirrors and Oriental plasterwork. Wander the labyrinthine streets of the Old Jewish Quarter and the architectural gems of the old city as the sun begins to lower. Conclude the day with dinner in a restored caravanserai, dining under stone arches where merchants and their camels once rested after crossing the desert.
- Meals Included:
- Breakfast
- Dinner
Exclusive Inclusions:
Naqshnabdi Mausoleum Visit
Visit the sacred Mausoleum of Bakhouddin Naqshbandiy - founder of Central Asia's most influential Sufi order - and learn from a local expert about Sufism's core teachings of spiritual devotion, balance, and remembrance of God.
Sitorai Mohi-Khosa Visit
Explore the elegant summer palace of the last Emir of Bukhara, discovering its blend of European and traditional architectural styles and the stories of the final royal era before Soviet rule.
Free Time in Bukhara
Drive back to Bukhara for free time to explore at leisure.
Bukhara Old Town visit
Explore the UNESCO World Heritage site, Bukhara Old Town. This historic medieval city is full of ancient mosques, mausoleums and monuments. Once a pivotal stop along the Silk Road, this town is now a cultural wonder. Wander through the stone alleyways and through the incredible architecture to get a feel of historic Bukhara.
Dinner in Bukhara
Enjoy dinner in a restored caravanserai, capturing the spirit of Silk Road hospitality.
Accommodations: Devon Hotel -
Day
15Bukhara/Khiva
Travel west by train, as the landscape shifts toward the stark beauty of the Khorezm region. Arrive in Khiva, the most intact of the Silk Road cities. Step inside the Ichan Qala, the walled inner city, where time seems to have stopped in the 10th century. Wander past the unfinished turquoise tower of the Kalta Minor minaret and through heavy carved wooden doors. As the sun sets, the mud-brick walls glow with a golden hue. Enjoy dinner with a view of the historic skyline, watching the silhouette of minarets against the darkening desert sky.
- Meals Included:
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
Exclusive Inclusions:
Lunch and Old Town Exploration in Khiva
Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant before checking into the hotel and beginning your guided exploration of Khiva's architectural treasures and ancient walled city.
Dinner in Khiva
Conclude the day with a terrace dinner featuring panoramic views of Khiva's old town - a beautiful introduction to one of Uzbekistan's most enchanting cities.
Train
Climb aboard, take a seat, and enjoy the ride.
Accommodations: Kamil Palace Hotel Khiva -
Day
16Khiva
Delve deeper into the Ichan Qala with an in-depth guided tour. Step into the cool shadows of the Juma Mosque, a forest of 213 wooden pillars, each uniquely carved. Explore the Tash-Khauli Palace, with its intricate blue tiles and labyrinthine corridors that once housed the Khan's harem. Spend the afternoon at leisure on your own - choose to climb the city walls for a panoramic view of the endless desert beyond or sipping green tea in a traditional chaikhana. The day concludes with a festive dinner featuring the vibrant rhythms of Khorezmian music and dance, a colorful celebration of the cultural legacy of this desert oasis.
- Meals Included:
- Breakfast
- Dinner
Exclusive Inclusions:
Guided Exploration of Khiva
Discover the rich history and architecture of Khiva through a guided tour of its ancient citadel, Ichan Qala - a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its minarets, madrasahs, and beautifully preserved old-city atmosphere.
Free Time in Khiva
Enjoy time in the afternoon to explore Khiva, enjoy cup of tea in one of the teahouses, or join one of the optional activites.
Khorezmian Music and Dance Show
Listen to and watch the traditions of Khiva come to life at a Khorezmian music and dance show. Unique instruments like the dutar and tanbur will accompany performers during the Khorezm classical and folk show.
Accommodations: Kamil Palace Hotel Khiva2Optional Activities for Day 16
Show -
Day
17Khiva/Ashgabat
Cross the border at Shavat, transitioning from the history of Uzbekistan into the mysterious nation of Turkmenistan. Drive to Dashoguz to visit a local market before boarding a flight to Ashgabat. Upon arrival, witness the surreal contrast of this modern capital, recognized by Guinness World Records for its density of white marble buildings. The evening and dinner are on your own to relax or explore more on your own.
- Meals Included:
- Breakfast
- Lunch
Exclusive Inclusions:
Private Vehicle
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Border Crossing (Uzbekistan to Turkmenistan)
Cross the border on foot and enter Turkmenistan.
Dashoguz Local Market
Visit a local market to enjoy your first moments in Turkmenistan.
Plane
Look! Up in the sky! It's a bird! It's a plane! It's... yup, it is a plane, actually.
Private Vehicle
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Accommodations: Oguzkent Hotel -
Day
18Ashgabat
Drive to the foot of the Kopet Dag mountains to explore Old Nisa, the ancient capital of the Parthian Empire. Walk among the UNESCO-listed mud-brick ruins of a civilization that once rivaled Rome, uncovering 2,000 years of history in the fortress walls. Return to Ashgabat to tour the grandiose monuments, including the Arch of Neutrality topped by a gold statue, gaining insight into the unique identity of this reclusive nation. It is a futuristic vision rising from the ancient sands. The expedition concludes with a farewell dinner and wrap-up presentation. Reflect on the empires, cultures, and landscapes you have traversed - from the tiled domes of Samarkand to the marble avenues of Ashgabat -toasting to the end of an epic expedition.
- Meals Included:
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
Exclusive Inclusions:
Ancient Settlement of Nisa
Pay a visit to the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Nisa. This ancient settlement was once the capital of the Parthian Empire from the 3rd century BCE to the 3rd century CE. Explore the ruins and learn about the history of this amazing place.
Lunch and Free Time in Ashgabat
Enjoy lunch in a local restaurant before free time for exploring at leisure or join an optional visit to the Carpet Museum.
Afternoon City Tour of Ashgabat
Explore the Monument of Independence followed by the National Museum of History and Ethnography. Visit the Arch of Neutrality and end the tour at the Gulistan market.
Farewell Evening in Ashgabat
Conclude the expedition with an included farewell dinner and expert wrap-up presentation.
Accommodations: Oguzkent Hotel1Optional Activities for Day 18
Show -
Day
19Ashgabat
Your expedition to Central Asia concludes today. Transfers to the airport are provided at any time during the day.
- Meals Included:
- Breakfast
Exclusive Inclusions:
Departure Transfer
You will be met at your hotel and transferred to the airport at the end of your adventure.
Departure Day
Not ready to leave? Your Expedition Leader can help with travel arrangements to extend your adventure.
Accommodations
Select a destination below to to view the hotel(s) included by G Adventures in their Signature: The Five Stans & The Heart Of The Silk Road tour:
Almaty
Rixos Almaty Hotel
Location
Seyfullin Avenue 506/99
050012
Almaty, Kazakhstan-050012
Other Details
- Hotel as shown or similar (G Adventures may replace it with a similar property)
Ashgabat
Oguzkent Hotel
Location
Ashgabat, Turkmenistan
Other Details
- Hotel as shown or similar (G Adventures may replace it with a similar property)
Bishkek
Hyatt Regency Bishkek
Location
191 Abdrahmanov Street
Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan-720011
Other Details
- Hotel as shown or similar (G Adventures may replace it with a similar property)
Bukhara
Devon Hotel
Location
Eshoni Pir St 20, 200118
Region
Bukhara, Uzbekistan-200118
Other Details
- Hotel as shown or similar (G Adventures may replace it with a similar property)
Dushanbe
Crown Plaza Dushanbe
Location
Nizomi Ganjavi St 1
Dushanbe, Tajikistan
Other Details
- Hotel as shown or similar (G Adventures may replace it with a similar property)
Khiva
Kamil Palace Hotel Khiva
Location
Khiva
Xorazm Region
Khiva, Uzbekistan
Other Details
- Hotel as shown or similar (G Adventures may replace it with a similar property)
Samarkand
Kosh Havuz Boutique Hotel
Location
St. Kosh Khavuz 40
Samarkand, Uzbekistan-140100
Other Details
- Hotel as shown or similar (G Adventures may replace it with a similar property)
Tashkent
Lotte City Tashkent Palace Hotel
Location
Buyuk Turon Street 56
Tashkent, Uzbekistan-100029
Other Details
- Hotel as shown or similar (G Adventures may replace it with a similar property)
More Details
G Adventures is informing us of the following additional details regarding their Signature: The Five Stans & The Heart Of The Silk Road tour:
Group Size
Max 22, avg. 18.
What's Included
Your Welcome Moment: Welcome Moment - Meet Your Expedition Leader and Group, BishkekYour Foodie Moment: Kazakh Dinner in Traditional Yurt, AlmatySignature Moment: "Golden Man" Experience at Issyk State Historical and Cultural Reserve Museum, AlmatyYour Welcome Moment: Welcome Moment and Dinner - Meet Your Expedition Leader and Group, TashkentSignature Moment: After-Hours at the Guri Emir Mausoleum, SamarkandYour Local Living Moment: Plov Cooking Class and Dinner, Samarkand. Arrival and departure transfer. Snow Leopard Foundation Discussion with a National Geographic Expert. Bishkek City Walking Tour. Free time in Bishkek. Traditional Kyrgyz Dinner & Cultural Demonstration. Burana Tower Visit. Lunch and Village Immersion with Nomadic Traditions. Almaty City Tour. Central State Museum of the Republic of Kazakhstan. Huns Ethno Village Visit and Lunch. Free Time in Almaty. Guided City Tour of Dushanbe. Traditional Tajik Welcome Dinner. National Museum of Antiquities of Tajikistan. Historic Hissor Fortress & Madrasah. Local Family Visit & Cultural Experience. Free time in Dushanbe. Guided City Tour of Tashkent. Farewell Dinner at the TV Tower. Historic Tashkent City tour & Sacred Sites Visit. Chorsu Bazaar Visit. Rakhimov Family Art Studio Visit. Free time in Tashkent. Guided Tour of Samarkand. Architectural Wonders of Samarkand. Tersak Village Visit. Afrasiab Museum of Samarkand Visit. Guided Exploration of Bukhara's Icons. Naqshnabdi Mausoleum Visit. Sitorai Mohi-Khosa Visit. Free Time in Bukhara. Bukhara Old Town visit. Caravanserai dinner. Old Town Exploration in Khiva. Guided Tour of Khiva. Free Time in Khiva. Khorezmian Music and Dance Show. Dashoguz Local Market. Ancient Settlement of Nisa. Free Time in Ashgabat. City Tour of Ashgabat. All transport between destinations and to/from included activities.
Highlights
Gain insight into local conservation with a talk by a National Geographic grantee, Enjoy pre-opening access and a curator talk on the Scythian 'Golden Man' treasure, Explore Tajikistan's National Museum with an archaeologist focusing on Buddhist history, Enter Tamerlane's mausoleum after hours for a private talk on the Timurid legacy, Walk the ruins of the Parthian capital with a specialist to uncover its ancient power, Bake bread and samosas with a local family before sharing a home-cooked meal.
Message from G Adventures About Travel Insurance
Travel Insurance: Travel insurance is compulsory in order to participate on any of our trips. When travelling on a group trip, you will not be permitted to join the group until evidence of travel insurance has been sighted by your CEO, who will take note of your insurance details. When selecting a travel insurance policy please bear in mind that all clients must have medical coverage and that we require a minimum coverage of USD 200,000 for repatriation and emergency rescue. We strongly recommend that the policy also covers personal liability, cancellation, curtailment and loss of luggage and personal effects. If you have credit card insurance we require proof of purchase of the trip (a receipt of credit card statement) with a credit card in your name. Contact your bank for details of their participating insurer, the level of coverage and emergency contact telephone number.
Optional Activities
G Adventures is offering the following optional activities at an additional cost, subject to availability:
Tashkent- Tashkent Museum of Fine Arts (8000UZS per person)Samarkand- Optional Light Show Visit to Registan SquareKhiva- Islam Khoja Minaret- Ichan-Qala (Itchan Kala) VisitAshgabat- Carpet Museum
Accommodation Summary
Hotels (18 nights)
Meals Included
18 breakfasts, 11 lunches, 12 dinners
Group Leader
National Geographic Expedition Leader and National Geographic Expedition Expert
International Flights
Check-in times and baggage allowances/restrictions vary by airline and can change at any time. For the most up-to-date information for your flight, please contact your airline. We recommend checking in online in advance to avoid potential delays at the airport.
Transportation
Private Vehicle, Walking, Plane, Train, Metro.
Minimum Age
You must be 18 to travel unaccompanied on a G Adventures tour. For minors travelling with a guardian over 21 years old, the minimum age is 12.
How should I dress to respect local customs during the tour?
Central Asian dress is quite conservative. Plan to pack loose-fitting light clothing appropriate for hot weather and plan to cover knees, shoulders and chest. For women, a hair scarf is recommended, though they are easy to buy in country.
Checklist
Documents:o Flight info (required) (Printouts of e-tickets may be required at the border)o Insurance info (required) (With photocopies)o Passport (required) (With photocopies)o Vouchers and pre-departure information (required)o Visas or vaccination certificates (With photocopies)Essentials:o Toiletries (required) (Shampoo, bodywash, soap, etc.)o Binoculars (optional)o Camera (With extra memory cards and batteries)o Cash, credit and debit cardso Day pack (Used for daily excursions or short overnights)o Ear plugso First-aid kit (should contain lip balm with sunscreen, sunscreen, whistle, Aspirin, Ibuprofen, bandaids/plasters, tape, anti-histamines, antibacterial gel/wipes, antiseptic cream, Imodium or similar tablets for mild cases of diarrhea, rehydration powder, water purification tablets or drops, insect repellent, sewing kit, extra prescription drugs you may be taking)o Flashlight/torch (Headlamps are ideal)o Fleece top/sweatero Footwearo Hato Headphones (Noice-cancelling recommended)o Locks for bagso Long pants/jeanso Moneybelto Outlet adaptero Personal entertainment (Reading and writing materials, cards, music player, etc.)o Reusable water bottleo Shirts/t-shirtso Sleepwearo Small travel towelo Sunglasseso Swimwearo Watch and alarm clocko Waterproof backpack covero Windproof rain jacketHealth & Safety:o Face masks (Clients will be only be required to wear a face mask where it is mandated by local regulations.)o Hand sanitizero Pen (Please bring your own pen for filling out documents.)
Service Level
Luxury: Five-star hospitality and meticulously curated inclusions, featuring iconic properties, fine dining, and private door-to-door service.
Pricing and availability are subject to change and must be confirmed by one of our travel advisors, who can contact the vendor to do so. Intra-vacation air (also referred to as internal air) is usually based on economy class seating (do not assume otherwise, unless explicity noted otherwise) and may be 100% non-refundable at time of final payment. Air quotes (including intra-vacation airfare) may be subject to change until final payment has been received by the vendor. Flight confirmation may be based on availability. Air reservations may not be able to be confirmed until a passport copy is received by the vendor. The following charges are not included in the vacation price unless otherwise noted: airfare to and from the start of your vacation; airline baggage fees including checked and/or excess baggage fees; Federal inspection fees for the Federal U.S. Customs and Immigrations; International Air Transportation tax; agricultural tax; other per person taxes imposed by government entities; airport taxes and fees, including the September 11th Security fee, passenger facility charges, Federal domestic flight segment fees, and U.S. and international arrival and departure and other government-imposed fees added by the airline and applicable at time of booking; port taxes; passports; visas and vaccinations; tips to your Cruise Director, Local Host, driver, Local Guides, and/or ship's crew; gratuities on ferries, trains, and cruise ships; laundry; telephone; minibar; alcohol, beverages, and food outside of the contracted menu as presented at a hotel or restaurant or onboard your vessel (these extra items will be billed to you before leaving the hotel, ship, or restaurant); airport transfers on non-qualifying flights; optional excursions; additional activities and excursions purchased online; porterage at airports and train stations; Travel Protection; and all other items of a personal nature. Itinerary details are provided by the vendor. Vendors may reserve the right to change itineraries, even on existing reservations. There may be instances where the name of a tour contains a tour length in it, but where there is a version of the tour that is a different number of days in length. You can check the true length of a tour by referring to the length value listed in association with that tour. Destination images displayed on this web page, some which are supplied by the related vendor and some which are not, are intended to simply give a general representation of the region of the world being visited during the tour. Such images are not necessarily of the exact areas being visited during the tour. Hotel details (including, but not limited to: rating/class, descriptions, images, amenities and addresses) are provided by G Adventures. Hotel amenities may be communicated in shorthand by G Adventures (for example, if "Laundry" is listed that may only mean that the hotel has an optional fee-based service that would allow for your laundry to be done by their staff). We reserve the right to correct errors.