Heart of Central Asia Five Stan’s Tours

Arrival in Tashkent (Uzbekistan)

Upon arrival at Tashkent International Airport, you will be warmly welcomed by our representative and transferred to your hotel. The rest of the day is free for you to relax after your journey or explore the city at your own pace.

Hotel Options
• Comfort Class: Lotte City Tashkent Palace
• Tourist Class: Florence Boutique or Ateca Suits
Meals Included: Dinner

Tashkent City Tour - Evening flight to Khiva

City tour of Tashkent. Begin the day with visiting the Hazrati Imam Complex, the spiritual heart of the city. Explore the Barak-Khan Madrasah, Hazrati Imam Mosque, and Mausoleum of Kaffal Shashi, together forming one of Tashkent’s most important historic and religious landmarks.

Continue to Chorsu Bazaar, one of Tashkent’s oldest and most vibrant markets. Wander through colourful stalls filled with spices, dried fruits, fresh produce, sweets, and traditional Uzbek foods. Be sure to visit a traditional tandir bakery, where local bakers press non bread by hand against the walls of a clay oven. Try it warm from the oven for an authentic taste of everyday Uzbek life.

See another side of Tashkent aboard the city’s famous Metro, stopping at some of its most impressive stations, including Alisher Navoi, Uzbekistan, and Kosmonavtlar. Each station features its own distinctive architecture, mosaics, chandeliers, and artistic design.

Continue to the Museum of Applied Arts, housed in an elegant historic residence. Its collection of intricate embroidery, textiles, ceramics, jewellery, and wood carving offers an insight into Uzbekistan’s rich artistic and craft traditions.

The tour then continues to Independence Square, Tashkent’s principal ceremonial space and an important symbol of the country’s independence. Finish at Amir Timur Square, one of the city’s central landmarks, dominated by the monument to Amir Timur, the celebrated 14th-century ruler and statesman. Later in the evening, transfer to the airport for your flight to Urgench. Upon arrival, transfer to Khiva and check in to your hotel.

Note: The State Museum of Arts of Uzbekistan is currently closed for renovation. We will add it back to the itinerary once it reopens to visitors.

Hotel Options
• Comfort Class: Farovon or Orient Star
• Tourist Class: Malika Khivek or Shaherezada Boutique
Meals Included: Breakfast-Dinner

Khiva City

According to legend, Khiva was founded when Shem, the son of Noah, discovered a well at this location. By the 8th century, the town had already emerged as a small fort and trading post along a Silk Road route connecting the Caspian Sea and the Volga. In the early 16th century, Khiva became the capital of the Timurid Empire and served as a central hub of the khanate for nearly three centuries.
Until the region came under Russian control in the 19th century, Khiva and its surrounding desert were regarded as remote and challenging to access. Today, Khiva stands as a well-preserved walled city, largely unchanged in appearance from centuries past. It is one of the rare places in Central Asia where visitors can easily imagine daily life during the era of the emirates.
The morning is spent walking through its narrow streets, ruins, and historic mosques. Later, enjoy a guided tour of this living museum, including the Ichon-Qala gates, Muhammad Amin and Rakhim Khan Medressas, Tosh-Khovli Palace, and the Islom-Huja Medressa and Minaret.

Hotel Options
• Comfort Class: Farovon or Orient Star
• Tourist Class: Malika Khivek or Shaherezada Boutique
Meals Included: Breakfast-Dinner

Shavat – Dashoguz – Darvaza Gas Crater (Turkmenistan)

In the morning, transfer to the Uzbek–Turkmen border crossing at Shavat. After completing border formalities, your Turkmen guide will meet you and accompany you to Dashoguz, where you will enjoy lunch and visit key sights of the city before beginning the long drive to the Darvaza Gas Crater.

In the afternoon, we journey deeper into the desert to visit one of Turkmenistan’s most remarkable sights: the Darvaza Gas Crater, famously known as the “Door to Hell.” In 1971, Soviet geologists accidentally caused the ground beneath their drilling rig to collapse, revealing a cavern filled with natural gas. To prevent the spread of toxic fumes, they set the crater on fire, expecting it to burn out within a few days. More than 50 years later, the flames are still burning.

Along the way, we stop at a traditional nomadic village in the Karakum Desert. Enjoy the vast desert scenery and a picnic dinner under the open sky. Overnight accommodation will be near the crater in a traditional yurt.

Hotel Options
• Comfort Class: Yurt Camp
• Tourist Class:  Yurt Camp
Meals Included: Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner

Darvaza – Ashgabat Sightseeing

In the morning, drive to Ashgabat and check into your hotel. Begin your city tour, visiting notable landmarks such as the Ashgabat Olympic Stadium, Monument and Park of Independence, the city’s main flagpole, Arch of Neutrality, Constitution Monument, Ferris Wheel, and Wedding Palace. Enjoy a panoramic view of Ashgabat from the hilltop, and explore the Halk Hakydasy Memorial Complex, Alabay Monument, and Ertogrul Gazi Mosque.
In the afternoon, take a trip to the ancient Nissa Fortress, the Sanctuary of the Parthian Kings. Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2007, Nissa is considered one of the earliest capitals of the Parthian Empire. Founded by Arsaces I (reigned c. 250 BC – 211 BC), it is believed to have served as the royal necropolis of the Parthian Kings, though its exact function, whether as a royal residence or mausoleum, remains uncertain.
The ruins of this important archaeological site lie about 18 km from Ashgabat, near the village of Bagyr.

Hotel Options
• Comfort Class: Sport Hotel  
• Tourist Class: Yildiz Hotel  
Meals Included: Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner

Ashgabat Sightseeing

Enjoy breakfast at your hotel before heading out for the day’s sightseeing. Begin with a visit to the “Altyn Asyr” Oriental Bazaar (open Wed, Thurs, Sat, Sun), also known as Jygyldyk Bazaar, located about 20 km north of Ashgabat. This is one of the largest open-air markets in the world, offering a vibrant display of Turkmen carpets, rugs, jewellery, silk, traditional clothing, and even livestock.
Alternatively, you may visit Gulistan Bazaar, one of Ashgabat’s oldest and largest covered markets. The ground floor features fresh produce, including fruits, vegetables, meats, fish, and dairy, along with spices, nuts, and dried fruits. The second floor offers shops selling clothing, souvenirs, and local crafts.
Next, explore the Turkmen Carpet Museum, considered one of the finest in Central Asia. The museum displays around 2,000 carpets, including traditional designs from the Tekke, Yamud, Sarik, and Chodor tribes. Highlights include the world’s smallest carpet, designed to hold keys, and the world’s largest handmade carpet (301 m²), woven in 2001 and recorded in the Guinness Book of Records in 2003.
Later, visit a horse stable to see the Akhalteke horses, the national pride of Turkmenistan and one of the oldest pure breeds in the world. Bred by the Turkmen for over 5,000 years, these horses were prized by historic figures such as Alexander the Great and Darius I. The farmhouses over 35 purebred Akhalteke horses, known for their speed, elegance, and legendary status. According to local belief, touching an Akhalteke horse brings healing and good fortune.

Hotel Options
• Comfort Class: Sport Hotel  
• Tourist Class: Yildiz Hotel  
Meals Included: Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner

Ashgabat – Mary & Ancient Merv

After breakfast, drive to Merv (390 km) to explore the ancient city once known as the “Queen of the World”. Merv was one of the most important capitals of the Islamic world, alongside Baghdad, Cairo, and Damascus.
Your sightseeing tour of ancient Merv includes Greater and Lesser Kyz Kala (6th–7th centuries), Complex of Askhabs (8th–14th centuries), Erk Kala (6th century BC), Gyaur Kala (4th century BC), Hoja Yusup Hamadani Complex, Sultan Sanjar Mausoleum, and Muhammed Ibn Zeid Mausoleum.

Hotel Options
• Comfort Class: Mary Hotel    
• Tourist Class:  Mary Hotel  
Meals Included: Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner

Mary – Bukhara (Uzbekistan) 

In the morning, drive to the Turkmen Uzbek border. After completing border formalities, you will be met by your Uzbek guide and continue the journey to Bukhara.
In the afternoon, enjoy a walking tour of Bukhara, one of the best places in Central Asia to experience the atmosphere of pre-Russian Turkestan. Much of the city centre is a protected architectural preserve, featuring the massive royal fortress (the Ark), historic madrassas, ancient hammams (public baths), and the remains of a once-thriving market complex. Today, Bukhara boasts over 140 officially protected historical monuments, offering a rich and immersive glimpse into the region’s past.

Hotel Options
• Comfort Class: Mercure Accor, Paradise Plaza, Labi Rud Premium or Shahriston
• Tourist Class: Makon Art, Lyabi House, Nodirabegim Boutique or Rizo Boutique
Meals Included: Breakfast-Dinner

Bukhara City Tour

Today, we explore Bukhara’s old quarter on foot. This ancient city is alive with bustling trade domes, vibrant mosques, and the iconic Kalyan Minaret, also known as the “Tower of Death,” one of Central Asia’s tallest structures. Wander through the winding streets and visit the old town centre, where elderly men with long white beards gather over tea, soaking in the timeless atmosphere.
Bukhara is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and many of its mosques, built between the 11th and 15th centuries, have been carefully restored to their former glory. Remarkably, some buildings still stand that date back to Zoroastrian times, nearly 2,500 years ago.
The tour includes a visit to The Ark, a massive fortress featuring the Emir’s open-air throne room. We’ll also see the Mausoleum of Ismail Samani, a beautifully intricate and well-preserved 10th-century brick structure.
Later, venture to the outskirts of Bukhara to visit the summer palace of the last Emir, built with the help of a Russian Czar, featuring grand halls and a harem. Finally, explore Char Minar, the gate of an ancient madrassa that has long vanished. Built in 1809, its design reflects Indian artistic influences rather than local styles.

Hotel Options
• Comfort Class: Mercure Accor, Paradise Plaza, Labi Rud Premium or Shahriston
• Tourist Class: Makon Art, Lyabi House, Nodirabegim Boutique or Rizo Boutique
Meals Included: Breakfast-Dinner

Bukhara – Free Day

Enjoy a full free day at leisure in Bukhara, where you can explore the old town at your own pace, relax and soak in the city’s atmosphere, or choose from optional activities available on request. 

Hotel Options
• Comfort Class: Mercure Accor, Paradise Plaza, Labi Rud Premium or Shahriston
• Tourist Class: Makon Art, Lyabi House, Nodirabegim Boutique or Rizo Boutique
Meals Included: Breakfast-Dinner

Bukhara – Shakhrisabz – Samarkand

This morning, we set off early for Shakhrisabz, the birthplace of Tamerlane (Timur). Here, we’ll explore the Ak Saray Palace, the Kok Gumbaz Mosque, the House of Meditation, and the Crypt of Timur — a remarkable figure whose legacy helped shape the course of Central Asian history.
Although only fragments of the Ak Saray Palace remain, its soaring 40-meter (130 foot) entrance, decorated with delicate blue, white, and gold mosaics, still hints at the grandeur of what was once a magnificent summer residence. Standing before it, it’s easy to imagine the scale and splendour of Timur’s vision.
We then continue to Samarkand, a city woven with legend and often compared to mythical places like Atlantis or Timbuktu. Its monumental architecture, vibrant bazaars, and deep historical layers create an atmosphere that feels almost timeless. Upon arrival, we’ll wander through the old bazaars, where the colours, aromas, and lively sounds of this ancient city truly come to life.

Hotel Options
• Comfort Class: Hilton Garden Inn, Continental, Movenpick or Zafshon Parkside
• Tourist Class: Medina, Rayyan or Registon Saroy
Meals Included: Breakfast-Dinner

Samarkand City Tour

Samarkand, often called the “Rome of the Orient,” was thriving long before the founding of Rome or Babylon. On our full-day tour, we will explore some of the city’s most iconic landmarks, starting with Registan Square, the heart of Samarkand’s historic life. We’ll marvel at the majestic Bibi Khanum Mosque, visit the Mausoleum of Tamerlane, and discover the Observatory of Ulughbek, where Tamerlane’s grandson made groundbreaking astronomical discoveries in the 15th century, long before the invention of the telescope.
Next, we will wander through the regal Shah-i-Zinda mausoleums, home to Central Asia’s most sacred Islamic shrine, and stroll through the lively market next to Bibi Khanum Mosque. Here, you can sample Samarkand’s famous bread, a delicacy so prized that even Alexander the Great attempted, unsuccessfully, to replicate it in Greece, and enjoy fresh local produce, including grapes and some of the world’s most flavorful melons.
In the afternoon, we will visit the Afrosiab Museum, where the rich history and archaeology of ancient Samarkand are beautifully displayed, offering a fascinating glimpse into the city’s legendary past.

Hotel Options
• Comfort Class: Hilton Garden Inn, Continental, Movenpick or Zafshon Parkside
• Tourist Class: Medina, Rayyan or Registon Saroy
Meals Included: Breakfast-Dinner

Samarkand – Panjakent – Fann Mountains (Tajikistan)

In the morning, we drive to the Uzbek Tajik border crossing at Panjakent. After completing border formalities, you will meet your Tajik guide and continue to the Seven Lakes (approximately 80 km), passing through the settlement of Sarazm, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The Seven Lakes of Marguzor lie in the western Fan Mountains, each lake displaying its own unique colours, from calming turquoise to mesmerising purple. Today, you’ll have the opportunity to hike and explore this stunning mountain landscape. Following a picnic lunch, we return to Panjakent.
In the afternoon, visit the Panjakent Museum and wander through the vibrant local market.

Hotel Options
• Comfort Class: Umaion Hotel, Panjakent Plaza
• Tourist Class: Sugd Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast –Lunch-Dinner

Panjakent – Iskander Kul Lake – Dushanbe

In the morning, we set off for Dushanbe, the vibrant capital of Tajikistan. Along the way, we stop at Iskander Kul Lake, a serene alpine lake perched high in the mountains at around 2,200 meters. Surrounded by rugged peaks and lush meadows, it’s the perfect spot to stretch your legs, take a leisurely walk, and capture some breathtaking photographs.
After enjoying the tranquillity of the lake, we continue our scenic drive to Dushanbe, where the landscape gradually transforms from wild mountains to the bustling energy of the city, offering a first glimpse of Tajikistan’s capital.

Hotel Options
• Comfort Class: Serena Hotel
• Tourist Class: Shumon or Atlas Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner

Dushanbe Sightseeing

In the morning, visit Hissar Fortress, the historic palace of the Bukhara Emirate beks. Its thick walls once enclosed a pool, garden, and palace, while overseeing a bustling market and caravanserai. Today, only portions of the walls and gate towers remain, showcasing 18th- and 19th-century architecture, alongside an 8th-century mosque that reflects the site’s long history as a centre of commerce and learning.
You’ll also explore the Old Madressa (16th–17th century), Madrasai Nav (17th–18th century), and the Caravan Saray.
Later, visit the Museum of National Antiquities, which highlights Tajikistan’s pre-Islamic civilizations, including a remarkable 1,500-year-old reclining Buddha statue.
Conclude the day with a stroll around the Ismoili Somoni Monument and Rudaki Park in the city center. Evening farewell dinner at a local restaurant. 

Hotel Options
• Comfort Class: Serena Hotel
• Tourist Class: Shumon or Atlas Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner

Dushanbe – Istaravshan - Khujand

In the morning, we drive to Khujand, stopping at Istaravshan to visit the Hazrat Shah Architectural Complex, including the Hazrat Shah Mausoleum, Khudayar Valami Mausoleum, Namazgah Mosque, and Mug Teppe ancient settlement.
Afternoon City tour of Khujand’s main sights Timurmalik Fortress, the Khujand Museum, and Panjshanbe Bazaar for a taste of local culture.

Hotel Options
• Comfort Class: Deluxe Hotel  
• Tourist Class: Sugdian Hotel  
Meals Included: Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner

Khujand – Fergana Valley

After breakfast, we cross the Tajik Uzbek border at Patar-Andarhon and continue our journey to the Fergana Valley. Along the way, we will visit Kokand’s Khan Palace Museum and the Rishtan ceramic workshops, where you can observe skilled artisans crafting traditional pottery.
In Margilan, we will explore the Silk Ikat Weaving Centre and Yodgorlik Factory, witnessing the full process of handwoven silk and ikat. This is also a wonderful opportunity to shop for exquisite local fabrics and experience the region’s rich textile heritage firsthand.

Hotel Options
• Comfort Class: Asia or Voyage Hotel  
• Tourist Class: Asia or Voyage Hotel  
Meals Included: Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner

Fergana Valley – Osh evening flight to Bishkek

After breakfast, we drive to the Uzbekistan–Kyrgyzstan border at Dostyk. After border formalities are complete, we meet our Kyrgyz guide and continue to Osh, one of Central Asia’s oldest and most historic cities.
In Osh, we explore the city on a guided tour, including a visit to the Suleiman-Too Sacred Mountain, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a place of deep cultural and spiritual significance.
In the evening, we transfer to Osh airport for a domestic flight to Bishkek. Upon arrival, we are transferred to our hotel.

Hotel Options
• Comfort Class: Orion Hotel 
• Tourist Class: Golden Dragon or City Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner

Bishkek Visit

In the morning, we drive to Ala-Archa National Park, located about 41 km from Bishkek on the northern slopes of the Kyrgyz Range, with elevations ranging from 1,600 to 4,860 meters. The Ala-Archa River flows through the park, which is characterised by piedmont steppes and dense mountain forests. Enjoy time exploring the park’s stunning natural scenery, followed by a picnic lunch, before returning to Bishkek.
In the afternoon, take a city tour of Bishkek, visiting key landmarks including Victory Square, the Russian Orthodox Church, Osh Market, Ala-Too Square, and the History Museum.

Hotel Options
• Comfort Class: Orion Hotel 
• Tourist Class: Golden Dragon or City Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner

Bishkek - Bishkek – Chon Kemin

In the morning, we set off for the serene Chon Kemin Valley, making a memorable stop at the ancient Burana Tower. This remarkable site surrounded by its stone grave markers, earth mounds, and the remnants of a once‑grand castle and three mausoleums, is all that remains of Balasagun, a city founded by the Karakhanids in the late 9th century.
Not far from the tower, you’ll have the chance to witness Buz-Kashi (also known as Kok-Boru), the exhilarating Kyrgyz national horse game often compared to polo for its speed and intensity. It’s a rare opportunity to experience a living tradition that has shaped nomadic culture for centuries.
We then continue to a local family home, where a warm, home‑cooked lunch awaits an authentic taste of Kyrgyz hospitality.
By early afternoon, we arrive in Chon Kemin, a stunning natural park framed by sweeping mountains and lush forests. Here, you can enjoy a gentle hike through the valley or opt for a peaceful horseback ride along forested mountain trails. From the top of the gorge, take a moment to breathe in the crisp air and admire the panoramic views that make this region so unforgettable.

Hotel Options
• Comfort Class: Ashu Guest House  
• Tourist Class: Ashu Guest House  
Meals Included: Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner

Chong Kemin – Tamga Village

In the morning, we drive to Kyzyl-Tuu village, famously known as the “Town of Yurt Masters.” Here, a local Kyrgyz family welcomes us and demonstrates how traditional yurts are made. You’ll even have the opportunity to take part in assembling a yurt, offering a hands-on insight into this centuries-old tradition.
After enjoying lunch with the yurt master’s family, we continue to Jaychi, where a local eagle hunter introduces us to the ancient art of hunting with a majestic Golden Eagle a truly memorable cultural experience.
Later, we drive to our yurt camp, where we enjoy dinner and spend the night in a traditional Kyrgyz yurt, surrounded by the peaceful natural landscape.

Hotel Options
• Comfort Class: Anyutaika Guest House 
• Tourist Class: Anyutaika Guest House 
Meals Included: Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner

Tamga – Djety Oguz -Karakol

In the morning, we drive to Karakol, stopping along the way at the Djeti Oguz Gorge, also called the Gorge of Seven Red Rocks. Known as one of Kyrgyzstan’s most beautiful gorges, it’s a perfect spot to stretch your legs and enjoy a short hike, taking in the dramatic red rock formations and stunning mountain scenery.
In the afternoon, we visit Yrdyk, an ethnic Dungan village, where you’ll have the chance to enjoy a traditional Dungan lunch and experience the local culture. After lunch, we continue our drive to Karakol.
Later, enjoy a city tour of Karakol, visiting the historic Russian Orthodox Church (1885), the Dungan Mosque (1910), and the museum and grave of Prjevalskiy, the famous Russian explorer of Central Asia and Mongolia.

Hotel Options
• Comfort Class: Green Yard or Karagat
• Tourist Class: Green Yard
Meals Included: Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner

Karakol – Saty Village (Kazakhstan)

In the morning, we drive through the Kegan border crossing to Saty Village.
Upon arrival in Saty, we board 4WD vehicles for the drive to Kaindy Gorge, where you can enjoy hiking and exploring the area.
Kaindy Lake (Birch Lake) is nestled among magnificent pine forests at an altitude of 2,000 meters. The lake is famous for its unique origin: in 1911, a powerful earthquake triggered a landslide that blocked the valley with a natural dam, flooding it to form the lake. Its cold waters preserve the submerged pine trees, with their needles clearly visible through the turquoise water. The mystical beauty of Kaindy Lake is truly beyond words and must be seen in person.
Later, we drive to Kolsai Lake, where you can explore the area and enjoy the stunning surroundings. Afterwards, we return to Saty village.

Hotel Options
• Comfort Class: Saty Guest House
• Tourist Class: Saty Guest House
Meals Included: Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner

Saty Village – Charyn Canyon – Almaty

After breakfast, depart for Almaty, stopping at the spectacular Charyn Canyon for some hiking and exploration.
Charyn Canyon (Kazakh: Sharyn), located about 195 km east of Almaty near the Chinese border, stretches 154 km along the Charyn River. Its dramatic sedimentary rock formations, carved over 12 million years, rise between 150 and 300 meters, creating a truly breathtaking landscape.
Take time to hike through the canyon, marvelling at the unique scenery shaped by nature over millennia.
For lunch, stop at a local restaurant in the Ethnic Uighur village of Bayseyit, where you can enjoy authentic regional cuisine. After lunch, continue your journey to Almaty.

Hotel Options
• Comfort Class: Rixos Almaty or Dostyk Hotel
• Tourist Class: Kazzhol Park Almaty or Resident Abay
Meals Included: Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner

Almaty City Tour 

We start our city tour of Almaty with a visit to Arbat Street, a popular pedestrian zone known for its fountains, street performances, and local artists.
Next, we visit Panfilov Park, home to the colourful and historic Zenkov Cathedral, one of the world's tallest wooden buildings, followed by the National Musical Instruments Museum, which features traditional Kazakh instruments dating back to the 17th century.
The morning concludes at the lively Almaty Green Bazaar, where guests can experience local flavours and shop for fresh produce and souvenirs.
Afternoon: Medeu Gorge and Shymbulak Ski Resort
In the afternoon, we drive to the scenic Medeu Gorge in the Tian Shan Mountains, famous for its natural beauty and high-altitude speed skating rink. From there, we take a cable car ride to Shymbulak Ski Resort to enjoy panoramic mountain views and relax at a mountain café.
On our return to Almaty, we visit the Central State Museum, which highlights Kazakhstan’s history and culture, including a replica of the Golden Man. The day ends at Republic Square, featuring the Obelisk of Independence and national symbols.
The program concludes with an evening farewell dinner at a local restaurant.

Hotel Options
• Comfort Class: Rixos Almaty or Dostyk Hotel
• Tourist Class: Kazzhol Park Almaty or Resident Abay
Meals Included: Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner

Depart Almaty

Our service will end with airport transfer.
Meals Included: Breakfast