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Signature: The Northern Stans & The Silk Road
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Length
9 Days
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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)
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Ends in
Tashkent (Uzbekistan)
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Available Tour Start Dates
APR 27, 2027 to JUN 2, 2027
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Activity Level
Easy
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Style
Fully-Guided
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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
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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.
$5,599.00
Contact Us for a Special Price!
Overview
Traverse the ancient Silk Road across Central Asia, from the mountains of Kyrgyzstan to bustling Uzbekistan. Explore Scythian archaeology, meet snow leopard conservationists, and share meals with Tajik families. Guided by experts, discover a region where nomadic traditions and imperial history converge.
Visited During Tour
Almaty (Kazakhstan) | Bishkek (Kyrgyzstan) | Dushanbe (Tajikistan) | Tashkent (Uzbekistan)
Dates, Offers & Prices
Tour Itinerary
Accommodations
More Details
Dates, Offers & Prices
The following are Signature: The Northern Stans & 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 AYITNS-11194
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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
Your expedition concludes today. Transfers are provided to the airport 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 Northern Stans & 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)
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)
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)
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 Northern Stans & 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, Almaty. 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. All transport between destinations and to/from included activities.
Highlights
Gain insight into local conservation with a talk by a National Geographic Explorer, Enjoy pre-opening access and a curator talk on the Scythian 'Golden Man' treasure, Witness traditional games and activities, followed by a home-hosted Kyrgyz lunch, Explore Tajikistan's National Museum with an archaeologist focusing on Buddhist history, Tour Soviet monuments before a panoramic farewell dinner atop the Tashkent TV Tower.
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.
Accommodation Summary
Hotels (8 nights)
Meals Included
8 breakfasts, 4 lunches, 5 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, Metro, Plane, Walking.
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.