Arrival in Almaty

Almaty - Arrive in Almaty, known as the “southern capital” of Kazakhstan. Upon arrival, you will be greeted at the airport and transferred to a hotel (Plaza 3* or similar). Enjoy some free time to relax. Afterwards, embark on a Central Asian adventure in Kazakhstan. Excited? We are too! Let’s explore Almaty and discover its offerings.

Park Named After Panfilov’s 28 Guardsmen - The first stop is Panfilov Park, the oldest park in Almaty.

Zeleny Bazar - Next, visit the Green Bazaar (traditional market), just a short walk away. Experience this lively marketplace by sampling Kazakh snacks, trying on national attire, and purchasing memorable souvenirs.

Medeo - Republic Square is a significant city site symbolizing Kazakhstan’s independence. Enjoy lunch at a restaurant. Medeo is one of the world’s largest high-altitude skating rinks and ski resorts. Take a cable car to the top plateau for a delightful coffee break while admiring the scenery. Return to the city center.

Kok-Tobe Hill - Kok Tobe (Green Hill in Kazakh) is a charming recreational park located on a hilltop. Ride a cable car to the park and enjoy a beautiful sunset. This concludes the cultural exploration of Almaty. Enjoy your evening!

Almaty - Charyn Canyon - Kolsay Lakes

Charyn Canyon - After breakfast, set off towards the famous Charyn Canyon, often referred to as the Grand Canyon’s little brother (3 hours). Upon arrival, enjoy exploring Charyn through hiking and photography. Lunch at a café.

Kolsai Lake - Continue to the enchanting Kolsay Lakes (2 hours), known as the “Pearls of the Tien Shan.” Nestled among conifer forests and tall peaks of the Tien Shan mountains, these small alpine lakes are located in southeastern Kazakhstan, near the Kyrgyzstan border. Upon arrival, check into a hotel (Kolsay Grand, Kolsay Prestige, or similar). A 10-minute drive to the first lake allows for a walk and enjoyment of the crisp alpine air. Personal time. Dinner at the hotel. Tomorrow, delve into exploring two Kolsay lakes and another hidden gem, Kaindy Lake.

Kolsay - Kaindy Lake - Almaty

Lake Kaindy - After breakfast, embark on a one-day adventure to explore local beauties. The first stop is the first Kolsay Lake. Hike approximately 8km through flat forest terrain to reach the second lake. Enjoy free time to admire the views and take photographs. Return to the hotel for lunch. Then, take a short bus ride (12km) to the famous turquoise Lake Kaindy, with spruce trees emerging from the water. This picturesque alpine lake was formed by a massive landslide caused by the “Kemin earthquake” in 1911. Enjoy free time at this magical place. Drive back to Almaty (300 km).

Almaty - Arrive in Almaty in the evening. Dinner. Overnight at the hotel (Plaza or similar).

Almaty - Bishkek

Almaty - Today is an exciting day as you transition to Kyrgyzstan for the next adventure. After breakfast, drive towards the Kazakhstan-Kyrgyzstan border (3.5 hours). Pass through the “Kordai” border control.

Bishkek - Upon crossing the border, drive to Bishkek city. Arrive in Bishkek and check into a hotel (Ambassador 4* or similar). Begin an exciting city tour.

Victory Square - The first stop is Victory Square, dedicated to the Second World War, featuring relevant monuments and an eternal flame. Visit the Kyrgyz National Opera and Ballet Theater, an old and beautiful building showcasing charming Soviet architecture.

Ala-Too Square - Ala-Too Square is the city’s main square, home to the largest flagpole and sentinels. Explore the charming “Erkindik” or “Freedom” boulevard and the old railway station. Visit the Kyrgyz State Philharmonic Hall, capturing the fascinating style of the Mayor’s office, International University, and the Philharmonic itself.

Osh Bazaar - Osh Bazaar is a legendary open-air market where you can immerse yourself in the traditional shopping culture of the Kyrgyz people. Return to your hotel. Free time in the evening.

Bishkek - Burana - Kok Moinok - Cholpon Ata

Burana Tower - In the morning, you will be picked up from your hotel and head towards the Issyk Kul region (230km). Stop at the famous Burana Tower, a UNESCO World Heritage site of interest to history enthusiasts. Spend about 30 minutes here: climb the tower, visit the archaeology museum, and explore balbals (ancient stones with depictions). Lunch. Continue to Issyk Kul.

Konorchek Canyons - Visit the fabulous Kok Moinok Canyon for a light but enjoyable hike.

Cholpon Ata - Upon arrival in Cholpon Ata (central town of the lake’s northern coast), check into a hotel. Free time for relaxation. Dinner at a restaurant. Overnight (Olimp hotel or similar).

Cholpon Ata - Grigoriev Gorge - Semyonov Gorge - Karakol

Cholpon Ata - In the morning, head to the local dock for a beautiful ship ride on the lake. After traveling 4km, the ship will stop at a depth of 120m. During the hot season (May-September), you may dive into the water for a surreal swim (life jackets provided). In other seasons, enjoy the lake’s splendor and surrounding mountains from the ship.

Grigorievka - After the ship ride, travel towards Karakol town, located between the north and south coasts. Lunch at a restaurant. Visit the stunning Grigoriev and Semyonov gorges to explore their wonderful landscapes and hidden alpine lakes. Continue the journey.

Karakol - Arrive in Karakol. Check into a hotel. Free time for rest. Drive to the neighboring village Ak Suu for a relaxing swim in the hot spring pools near a forest. This is a great way to unwind after an active day. Return to Karakol. Dinner at a restaurant. Overnight (78 hotel or similar).

Karakol - Ski Base - Jeti Oguz - Barskoon - Kaji Say

Jeti-Oguz Canyon (Seven Bulls Rocks) - Today, explore Karakol and its surroundings. After breakfast, head to Kyrgyzstan’s best ski resort. In winter, enjoy skiing, and in summer, admire stunning views of the region. Lush green meadows, vast conifer forests, snow-capped mountain peaks, glaciers, and the entire lake in the background define this ski resort. The chair lift takes you up to 3040 meters above sea level. Walk on the plateau and enjoy the views. Lunch at a restaurant. Head to Jeti Oguz Valley (Seven Bulls), famous for its red rock formations. Tea time in nature. Continue the journey.

Kaji Say - Ak Say - Bishkek

Bokonbayevo - Continue towards Ak Sai village to witness a spectacular eagle hunting process. Learn about this traditional Kyrgyz hunting method and participate in the archery part. After this experience, drive to the nearby Ak Sai canyons to explore the charming Canyon of Forgotten Rivers. Otherworldly views are guaranteed! Descend from the canyon and head to the wild beach for a lovely picnic and farewell to Issyk Kul Lake.

Bishkek - Return to Bishkek (230km). Check into the hotel (Ambassador 4* or similar). Dinner. Overnight.

Bishkek - Tashkent

Tashkent - After breakfast, head to the airport for a 1-hour flight to Tashkent, the capital city of Uzbekistan. Transfer to the airport and bid farewell to Kyrgyzstan. Arrive at Tashkent’s airport. Transfer to the city center and check into a hotel (Wyndham 4* or similar). Free time for rest. Begin exploring Tashkent. Let’s go! Start with a visit to the enchanting Old Tashkent.

Chorsu Bazaar - Step back in time and admire architectural gems like the Barak-Khan Madrasah and Tillya Sheikh Mosque in Hast Imam Square. Visit the Library of Eastern Manuscripts, home to centuries-old texts, including the oldest Quran written in the VII century. No visit to Tashkent is complete without experiencing the vibrant Chorsu Bazaar. Afterwards, take the metro to the modern heart of the city. The first stop is the Monument of Courage, a tribute to the resilience and courage of the Uzbek people. Proceed to Independence Square, a sprawling plaza with fountains, statues, and the iconic Arch of Good Will. Lunch at a restaurant. Next, visit the residence of Romanov, the exiled grandson of Russian Emperor Nikolai I. Then, visit the Opera and Ballet Theater.

Amir Temur Square - Conclude the city tour at Amir Timur Square, named after the legendary conqueror. Return to the hotel. Personal time to relax in the city.

Tashkent - Samarkand

Samarkand - After breakfast, take a modern high-speed train to Samarkand (2h). Check into a hotel (Continental 3* or similar). Drop off your belongings and immediately immerse yourself in Samarkand’s heritage. With over 2500 years of rich history, Samarkand is known as the “precious pearl” and “face of the earth” in the East, sharing its legacy with cities like Athens, Rome, and Babylon. Visit the majestic Gur-Emir mausoleum and tombs of the Timurid dynasty, resembling a closed turquoise tulip.

Registan - Registan Square is the heart of Samarkand. It originated long before the Mongol invasion (13th century) as a gathering point for urban craftsmen and merchants. The word Registan means “a place on the sand.” Lunch at a national restaurant. Visit Siyab Bazaar (open-air market).

Bibi Khanym Mosque - Visit Bibi-Khanym Palace (15th century). Explore Ulugbek Observatory, the famous astronomer and grandson of Tamerlane. Visit the Shahi-Zinda architectural complex. Return to the hotel. Personal time.

Samarkand - Bukhara

Bukhara - After breakfast, continue the journey by high-speed train to Bukhara (2 hours). Check into a hotel upon arrival (Wyndham 4* or similar). Begin the introduction to Bukhara:

Poi Kalyan Mosque - Visit Kalyan Minaret (also known as the Tower of Death), one of Bukhara’s most iconic landmarks. Visit Chor Minor, meaning “Four Minarets” in Farsi, an architecturally unique and historic monument. This structure stands out for its distinctive design and is one of Bukhara’s most renowned and photographed sites. Lunch at a restaurant.

Lyab-i-Hauz - The Lyabi Hauz area is a quintessential example of Central Asian urban planning and architecture, centered around a tranquil pond (hauz) dating back to the 17th century. Visit the Ark Citadel, a massive fortress symbolizing power and a focal point of the city’s development for centuries. Its origins date back to the 5th century AD, though it has been destroyed and rebuilt numerous times. Continue the city tour and visit Bukhara’s trading domes, where you can purchase various souvenirs and gifts. Return to the hotel. Free time in the evening.

Bukhara - Farap - Mary

Mary - Ashgabat

Ashgabat - Take a quick flight from Mary to Ashgabat, the capital city. Check into a hotel (Sport 4* or similar). Free time in the evening.

Ashgabat

Ashgabat - Today, enjoy a comprehensive introduction to Ashgabat. Start the city tour in the morning after breakfast. Visit Independence Park, a vast and beautifully landscaped area celebrating the country’s independence. Explore the Turkmenistan National Museum, located within the park, to learn about Turkmenistan’s history and heritage. Visit the Arch of Neutrality, a monument with a golden statue of the country’s first President atop (Saparmurat Niyazov). Lunch at a national restaurant. Visit the Wedding Palace, a unique building designed to resemble a giant cube with a ball on top. Explore the Earthquake Memorial and Museum. The Health Path is a popular spot for locals, offering great views of the city and surrounding landscape. Visit the Ertugrul Gazi Mosque. Return to the hotel. Personal time to explore. Dinner at a restaurant.

Ashgabat - Darvaza

Darvaza - Ashgabat

Ashgabat - In the morning, after sunrise, enjoy the scenes of Darvaza. Lunch. In the afternoon, set off back to the white city of Ashgabat (3.5 hours). Check into the hotel upon arrival. Free time to rest and explore the streets of evening Ashgabat. Farewell dinner at a restaurant.

• Visa voucher and LOI (Letter of invitation) for Turkmenistan
• Domestic flights and flights between countries: Bishkek - Tashkent; Mary - Ashgabat
• Lunch
• Dinner
• All activities due to the program
• In-vehicle air conditioning
• Breakfast
• High speed trains from Tashkent to Samarkand and from Samarkand to Bukhara
• Accommodation for 16 nights: twin stay at hotels as per program
• All fees and/or taxes

• International airfare
• Health insurance
• Visa sticker at the border to Turkmenistan (price varies depending on citizenship)
• Personal expenses

Following the successful launch of our 26-day tour in Central Asia, we recognized the need to offer a shorter, express version for those with limited vacation time. Presenting a 16-day adventure in Central Asia, perfect for those seeking a condensed yet thrilling experience.

This unforgettable journey includes a variety of authentic Central Asian activities:

• Trekking in the legendary Tian Shan mountains
• Horseback riding
• Staying in traditional yurts
• Exploring Silk Road cities
• Savoring national cuisines
• Engaging with local artisans who keep centuries-old traditions alive, and much more!

If you cancel at least 6 full day(s) before the scheduled departure time, you will receive a full refund.
If you cancel between 2 and 6 day(s) before the scheduled departure time, you will receive a 50% refund.
If you cancel within 2 day(s) of the scheduled departure, you will receive a 0% refund.