Welcome to Almaty, Kazakhstan’s vibrant cultural capital and the starting point of your journey through the 5 Stans. As your plane touches down, the blend of modern energy and deep-rooted traditions immediately sets the tone for the adventure ahead. After completing arrival procedures, you will be transferred to your hotel, where you can relax and take in your first impressions of this lively city.

With the rest of the day free, you’re invited to explore Almaty at your own pace. We recommend visiting the Green Bazaar, a bustling hub of local life where fragrant spices, colorful produce, and warm hospitality reflect the city’s authentic spirit. You might also enjoy a stroll along the city’s leafy boulevards, sip aromatic tea in a cozy café, or simply unwind while admiring the majestic backdrop of the Tien Shan Mountains.

Whether you venture out or enjoy a quiet evening, this first day marks the beginning of a journey filled with discovery, culture, and inspiration.

Travel Details: Transfer from Almaty International Airport to your hotel; Overnight stay at a hotel in Almaty (-/-/-)

Your day begins with a city tour of Almaty, a journey through the city’s rich layers of history, culture, and natural beauty. Start with a leisurely stroll through Panfilov Park, where peaceful pathways lead to the enchanting Zenkov Cathedral, a wooden architectural masterpiece that has endured for generations.

From here, take a short walk to the nearby metro station and enjoy a ride on Almaty’s Soviet-style metro, offering a fascinating glimpse into the city’s past and its distinctive architectural identity. Continue toward the city center, passing the oldest cinema - a classic USSR-era building - along with other Soviet cultural landmarks that echo the atmosphere of a bygone era. Visit Republic Square, the symbolic heart of Almaty and a key highlight of the city tour.

In the afternoon, nature takes center stage. Travel to the Medeo Dam, nestled amid dramatic alpine scenery, and breathe in the crisp mountain air. Then ascend by cable car to Shymbulak, reaching 3,200 meters above sea level, where sweeping views of the Tien Shan Mountains offer an unforgettable finale to the day.

Highlights of the day:

• Discover Almaty’s landmarks: Panfilov Park, Zenkov Cathedral, and Republic Square.
• Experience the city’s Soviet legacy: ride the metro and exploring cultural landmarks from the USSR era.
• Enjoy a scenic ascent to Shymbulak, where you can experience breathtaking mountain views.

Travel Details: Expected travel distance: ~27 km; Overnight at a hotel in Almaty (B/-/-)

The day begins with a journey across the open Kazakh steppe, where wide horizons gradually give way to the dramatic landscapes leading toward Kyrgyzstan. Your first stop is Charyn Canyon, famously known as the “Valley of Castles.” Its towering red cliffs and sculpted rock formations reveal the raw beauty and strength of nature. You may choose to take an optional hike through the canyon or simply enjoy the sweeping views from the scenic viewpoint above.

After the visit, continue to the Kazakhstan–Kyrgyzstan border and complete the crossing formalities. Beyond the border, the landscape changes again: arid plains give way to fertile valleys, alpine forests, and the soaring peaks of the Tien Shan Mountains.

Arrive in Karakol, a charming town nestled at the foot of the mountains. In the evening, enjoy a folklore show paired with a traditional Kyrgyz dinner - the highlight of the day - where music, dance, and warm hospitality offer a heartfelt introduction to the culture of Kyrgyzstan.

Highlights of the day:

• Charyn Canyon – A breathtaking natural landscape often referred to as the “Valley of Castles.”
• Folklore show in Karakol – Enjoy traditional music, dance, and a Kyrgyz dinner showcasing the country’s rich cultural heritage.

Travel Details: Expected travel distance: ~370 km; Overnight at a guesthouse in Karakol (B/-/D)

Your journey continues in Karakol, where a short morning tour reveals the city’s rich cultural mosaic. Visit the beautifully crafted Dungan Mosque, built entirely of wood without a single nail, and stop by the nearby Russian Orthodox Church, whose elegant domes reflect Karakol’s diverse heritage.

Leaving the town, the road leads into the breathtaking Jeti-Ögüz Valley, also known as Seven Bulls, where towering red cliffs rise above sweeping meadows and pine-covered slopes. This striking landscape is one of Kyrgyzstan’s most iconic natural treasures.

The adventure continues at Skazka Canyon, a surreal landscape of wind-carved formations glowing in vibrant shades of red and orange. A gentle walk offers time to absorb the canyon’s otherworldly beauty and striking shapes.

Before reaching your overnight stay, travel through the rugged Ak-Sai Canyon, a dramatic passage that gradually opens up to the serene blue waters of Lake Issyk-Kul. Upon arriving at your yurt camp by the lake, enjoy the peaceful setting, where still waters and the distant Tien Shan peaks create the perfect atmosphere to unwind after a day of discovery.

Highlights of the day:

• Jeti-Ögüz Valley (Seven Bulls) – Admire the striking red cliffs and lush alpine scenery of one of Kyrgyzstan’s most iconic natural sites.
• Ak-Sai Canyon – Drive through this dramatic gorge leading to the serene shores of Lake Issyk Kul.
• Yurt stay by Lake Issyk Kul – Experience the calm of nomadic life surrounded by mountain peaks and mirrored waters. 

Travel Details: Expected travel distance: ~100 km; Overnight in Yurt Camp by Issyk-Kul (B/-/D

Today, your journey takes you deeper into Kyrgyzstan’s living traditions and ancient history. Begin the morning by the shores of Lake Issyk-Kul, where you meet a traditional Eagle Hunter and witness the remarkable bond between man and bird. This captivating demonstration showcases the ancient art of falconry, refined over centuries. Seeing the eagle respond with such precision and grace offers a powerful glimpse into a tradition that remains central to Kyrgyz culture.

Afterward, take part in a yurt-making workshop - an authentic and engaging experience that reveals the craftsmanship behind one of the most enduring symbols of nomadic life. As the wooden frame and felt layers come together, you gain insight into the practicality, beauty, and symbolism of the Kyrgyz yurt.

Continue toward the Burana Tower, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the oldest surviving monuments of the Silk Road. Standing tall on the open steppe, its weathered bricks echo the stories of ancient cities and long-forgotten civilizations. By evening, arrive in Bishkek, the Kyrgyz capital. Set against the Ala-Too Mountains, the city brings together Soviet-era architecture, leafy boulevards, and a vibrant modern atmosphere - a fitting conclusion to a day rich in heritage and tradition.

Highlights of the day:

• Eagle hunting demonstration – Witness the ancient art of falconry by the shores of Lake Issyk Kul, where the harmony between hunter and eagle tells a story of timeless tradition.
• Yurt-making workshop – Experience the craftsmanship and symbolism behind the Kyrgyz yurt, a living expression of nomadic culture and connection to nature.
• Burana Tower – Explore one of the oldest Silk Road monuments, a silent witness to centuries of trade, faith, and civilization.

Travel Details: Expected travel distance: ~320 km; Overnight at a hotel in Bishkek (B/-/-)

Experience the vibrant heart of Bishkek before continuing your journey to the historic city of Tashkent in Uzbekistan. Begin the morning with a city tour that includes Ala-Too Square, Oak Park, and the lively Osh Bazaar, where the energy of daily life fills the streets with color and warmth. The tour also includes a stop at the city’s main mosque, a striking architectural gift from Turkey modeled after Istanbul’s Hagia Sophia - an enduring symbol of shared heritage and friendship.

In the afternoon, transfer to the airport for your short flight to Tashkent. Upon arrival, settle into your hotel and spend the evening at leisure - whether relaxing, enjoying a quiet dinner, or taking a walk through the city’s tree-lined avenues, where Soviet grandeur blends harmoniously with Uzbek character.

Highlights of the day:

• Bishkek city tour – Explore Ala-Too Square, Oak Park, and the lively Osh Bazaar, where everyday life bursts with color and energy.
• Main Mosque of Bishkek – Admire this grand architectural gift from Turkey, inspired by Istanbul’s Hagia Sophia and symbolizing faith and friendship.

Travel Details: Flight from Bishkek (Kyrgyzstan) to Tashkent (Uzbekistan); Overnight at a hotel in Tashkent (B/-/-)

The journey from Tashkent to Khujand leads you across changing landscapes and cultural frontiers. After breakfast, travel toward the Oybek Border, where you complete the necessary formalities before entering Tajikistan. The road continues through scenic terrain until you reach Khujand, one of Central Asia’s oldest cities.

Upon arrival, enjoy some free time before beginning a guided city tour. Start at the lively Oriental Bazaar, where vibrant colors, fragrant spices, and bustling stalls capture the rhythm of daily life. Continue to the Museum of Archaeology and Fortification, followed by the Mosque and Mausoleum of Shaikh Muslihiddin, a serene complex honoring one of the region’s most revered spiritual figures.

A visit to the impressive Arbob Palace offers a glimpse into Tajikistan’s more recent history. Built in the mid-20th century and inspired by Peterhof Palace near St. Petersburg, it stands as one of the city’s most notable architectural landmarks. If time permits, enjoy an optional cable car ride for panoramic views of Khujand and the Syr Darya River.

Highlights of the day:

• Visit to the Oriental Bazaar in Khujand – Immerse yourself in the vibrant sights, sounds, and flavors of the market.
• Arbob Palace – Explore this striking mid-20th-century architectural landmark, modeled after Peterhof Palace near St. Petersburg. 

Travel Details: Expected travel distance: ~180 km; Border crossing Uzbekistan-Tajikistan; Overnight stay at a hotel in Khujand (B/-/-)

The journey continues through northern Tajikistan as you travel from Khujand to the capital, Dushanbe. After breakfast, begin with a short stop at the Lenin statue, the largest in Central Asia and a defining reminder of the era when Khujand was known as Leninabad.

From here, head to Istaravshan, one of Tajikistan’s oldest towns. Explore the Khazrati Shokh Complex, including its mosque and mausoleum, before visiting the Khudayar Valami Mausoleum and the Namozgokh Mosque - each highlighting the region’s rich historical heritage and exquisite craftsmanship.

There is some free time before continuing the drive south. The road leads through the striking Pamir-Alay Mountains, a scenic route of dramatic peaks and valleys that many travelers compare to the famous Pamir Highway.

Arrival in Dushanbe is in the late afternoon, and the evening free for you to relax or explore the city at your own pace.

Highlights of the Day:

• Lenin Statue in Khujand – See the largest Lenin monument in Central Asia, recalling the city’s Soviet-era heritage.
• Khazrati Shokh Complex – Visit one of Istaravshan’s most significant religious and architectural landmarks. 
• Scenic Pamir-Alay Mountain Drive – Experience one of the region’s most picturesque mountain routes, often compared to the famous Pamir Highway.

Travel Details: Expected travel distance: ~300 km; Overnight stay at a hotel in Dushanbe (B/-/-)

The morning begins with a half-day city tour of Dushanbe, introducing you to the capital’s blend of tradition, elegance, and modern identity. Start with a walk through Rudaki Park, a beautifully landscaped green space at the heart of the city. Then continue along Rudaki Avenue, where Dushanbe’s main government buildings and cultural monuments line the boulevard in a harmonious architectural ensemble.

Visit Independence Square, one of the city’s most iconic public spaces, before continuing to the impressive Nawruz Palace, a masterpiece of craftsmanship and Tajik decorative art. The tour concludes at Dushanbe Bazaar, where the lively atmosphere, vibrant colors, and everyday scenes offer an authentic glimpse into local life.

You will have free time in the afternoon to further explore the city, relax, or enjoy a peaceful walk through the capital’s shaded boulevards.

Highlights of the Day:

• Rudaki Park, Rudaki Avenue & Independence Square – A walk through Dushanbe’s central landmarks, showcasing the city’s green spaces, elegant architecture, and national symbols. 
• Nawruz Palace – Admire one of Tajikistan’s most ornate and beautifully decorated buildings.
• Dushanbe Bazaar – Experience the vibrant energy of local life at the capital’s bustling central market. 

Travel Details: Expected travel distance: ~5-10 km (local city touring); Overnight stay at a hotel in Dushanbe (B/– /–)

Today’s journey is a tapestry woven from nature, history, and the crossing of borders - each step bringing you closer to the legendary city of Samarkand. Leaving Dushanbe behind, the road winds through dramatic mountain scenery and passes through the Anzob Tunnel, a key passageway connecting northern and central Tajikistan. Emerging on the other side, the landscape opens into sweeping valleys and high alpine views.

Continue toward the tranquil shores of Iskandarkul Lake, a place rich with legends of Alexander the Great. Surrounded by rugged peaks and serene stillness, the lake offers a moment of peace and reflection. A short walk brings you to the Panjchashma Waterfall, where the Iskandarya River drops 24 meters into a narrow gorge - a refreshing highlight of the mountain journey.

After some free time, travel onward to Penjikent and the Tajik–Uzbek border, completing the necessary formalities before entering Uzbekistan. From here, the road leads to Samarkand, a city famed for its monumental architecture and its centuries-old Silk Road heritage.

Highlights of the day:

• Anzob Tunnel – Drive through this engineering marvel, famously known as the Tunnel of Death connecting northern and southern Tajikistan.
• Iskandarkul Lake– Discover the tranquil beauty of this historic site linked to Alexander the Great.

Travel Details: Expected travel distance: ~350 km; Overnight stay at a hotel in Samarkand (B/-/-)

A full day in Samarkand reveals some of Central Asia's most remarkable monuments. Begin the city tour with the Gur-Emir Mausoleum, the majestic 15th-century resting place of Timur, whose legacy shaped an entire era. Continue to the Registan Ensemble, the city’s iconic heart, framed by the Ulugbek, Shir Dor, and Tillya-Kari Madrassahs - masterpieces of 15th- and 17th-century Islamic architecture.

From here, pass by the Bibi Khanum Mosque, once one of the grandest mosques of the medieval world, and take time to wander through the bustling Siab Bazaar, where local produce, spices, and traditional sweets bring Samarkand’s vibrant daily life.

In the afternoon, visit the Carpet Factory, a cooperative run by Uzbek and Afghan families. The demonstration offers valuable insight into traditional weaving techniques and natural dyes - authentic, well-organized, and one of the day’s most memorable experiences.

Continue to the Shah-i-Zinda necropolis, a breathtaking avenue of mausoleums adorned with some of the finest tilework in the Islamic world. Your final stop is the Mirzo Ulugbek Observatory, where the scientific brilliance of the 15th-century astronomer still resonates.

Return to your hotel for an overnight stay in Samarkand as you prepare to continue to Bukhara the following day.

Highlights of the Day:

• Gur-Emir Mausoleum – Explore the final resting place of Timur, one of history’s greatest conquerors.
• Registan Ensemble – Admire the majestic trio of madrasahs that define Samarkand’s skyline.
• Carpet Factory – Discover traditional weaving techniques at a cooperative run by Uzbek and Afghan families.
• Mirzo Ulugbek Observatory – Discover the site where medieval astronomy achieved remarkable advancements.

Travel Details:Expected travel distance: ~25 km (local city touring); Overnight at a hotel in Samarkand (B/–/–)

A morning transfer takes you to the railway station for your high-speed bullet train from Samarkand to Bukhara. Arriving by midday, you step into one of Central Asia’s most atmospheric cities, where centuries of devotion, power, and artistry have shaped every corner.

Your exploration begins at the Mausoleum of Ismail Samani, a masterpiece of early Islamic architecture celebrated for its perfect geometric harmony. Nearby, the sacred spring of Chashma-i-Ayub offers a quiet moment where legend and history meet. Continue to the elegant Bolo-Hauz Mosque, its carved wooden pillars reflected beautifully in the still waters of the hauz. Enter the mighty Ark Fortress, once the royal stronghold of Bukhara’s emirs, before making your way to the magnificent Poi-Kalyan Ensemble. Here, the soaring Kalon Minaret, the grand Djuma Mosque, and the stately Miri-Arab Madrassah form one of the most iconic silhouettes along the Silk Road.

Wander through the historic trading domes, where artisans continue the traditions of silk weaving, metalwork, and ceramics. The day concludes at Lyab-i-Hauz, a serene square framed by centuries-old madrassahs and the Magok-i-Attari Mosque - a peaceful setting to absorb the enduring spirit of Bukhara.

Highlights of the Day:

• Bullet Train Journey – Travel swiftly and comfortably from Samarkand to Bukhara aboard Uzbekistan’s high-speed rail.
• Ark Fortress – Discover Bukhara’s historic royal residence with its imposing defensive walls.
• Poi-Kalyan Ensemble – Admire the iconic Kalon Minaret, Djuma Mosque, and Miri-Arab Madrassah.

Travel Details: Expected travel distance: ~270 km (Samarkand to Bukhara by bullet train and local city touring); Overnight at a hotel in Bukhara (B/–/–)

An early transfer takes you to the railway station for your journey from Bukhara to the desert oasis of Khiva. The ride itself is an experience - traveling aboard a Soviet-era train, a nostalgic glimpse into the past, adding an authentic touch to the day’s adventure. By early afternoon, the striking mudbrick walls of Khiva rise before you, welcoming you into one of Central Asia’s most atmospheric cities.

Begin your exploration at the Kunya-Ark Fortress, the ancient stronghold of Khiva’s khans, before visiting the impressive Kurinish Khana. Nearby, the elegant Mohammed-Amin-Khan Madrassah and the tall silhouette of the Islam Khodja Minaret highlight the city’s distinctive architectural style.

Continue through the lively Palvan-Kari Complex and the stately Mohammed Rakim Khan Madrassah, each reflecting centuries of history. The serene beauty of the Juma Mosque, supported by its forest of wooden pillars, creates one of Khiva’s most memorable moments. End your tour at the intricate Tash Hauli Palace, a masterpiece of royal design adorned with exquisite tilework and carved wood. As evening settles over the old town, the timeless charm of Khiva leaves a lasting impression.

Highlights of the Day:

• Soviet Train Journey – Experience an authentic and nostalgic ride across the Kyzylkum Desert from Bukhara to Khiva.
• Kunya-Ark Fortress – Explore the ancient royal stronghold of Khiva’s khans.
• Juma Mosque – Admire its serene hall supported by 218 carved wooden pillars.
• Kalta Minar – See the iconic turquoise-tiled minaret, an unfinished yet unforgettable symbol of Khiva.

Travel Details: Expected travel distance: ~450 km by train and local transfers; Overnight stay at a hotel in Khiva (B/–/–)

Leaving Khiva behind, the day begins with a transfer to the Shavat border, where you enter Turkmenistan and continue your journey into the vast Karakum Desert. From there, the adventure truly unfolds as you board 4x4 vehicles and drive across open desert landscapes, remote tracks, and sweeping dunes. The feeling of isolation and freedom grows with every kilometer, offering a genuine sense of expedition.

By late afternoon, the shimmering heat of the desert gives way to the dramatic sight of the Darvaza Gas Crater. Known as the “Door to Hell,” this immense burning pit has been alight for decades, its flames glowing fiercely against the fading daylight. As night falls, the crater transforms into a mesmerizing spectacle, illuminating the desert with an otherworldly glow.

Dinner is served near the crater, allowing you to enjoy the warmth of the fire and the stillness of the desert night. The evening concludes at your yurt camp, where the silence of the Karakum Desert and the canopy of stars create an unforgettable atmosphere.

Highlights of the Day:

• 4x4 Adventure Across the Karakum Desert – Journey through remote dunes and vast horizons in true expedition style.
• Darvaza Gas Crater – Witness the legendary “Door to Hell,” glowing intensely from late afternoon into the night.
• Yurt Camp Stay – Spend the night beneath the stars in the heart of the desert.

Travel Details: Expected travel distance: ~320 km. including 4x4 in Karakum. Overnight in Darvaza Yurt Camp (B/L/D).

A simple, camp-style breakfast greets the morning in the stillness of the Karakum Desert. Leaving the yurt camp behind, the route toward Ashgabat unfolds across vast open landscapes, with short stops at the intriguing Mud and Water Craters - unusual natural formations that reveal the hidden forces at work beneath the desert surface.

As you approach Ashgabat, the contrast is striking. Rising from the desert like a vision in marble and glass, the city features grand boulevards, monumental buildings, and a polished, modern skyline unlike any other in Central Asia.

A half-day city tour introduces you to Ashgabat’s most meaningful landmarks. Explore the UNESCO-listed ruins of Nissa, once the seat of the Parthian Empire, before visiting the impressive Turkmenbashi Mosque–Mausoleum, one of the largest in Central Asia. Continue to Independence Park and the iconic Neutrality Arch, both symbols of Turkmenistan’s national identity and modern aspirations.

A visit to the Akhal-Teke horse stables offers a unique opportunity to see the country’s most treasured breed - horses renowned for their speed, elegance, and shimmering coats. The day winds down with an evening in the capital, allowing time to relax and reflect on the journey from desert wilderness to a gleaming modern city.

Highlights of the Day:

• Turkmenbashi Mosque–Mausoleum – Admire the scale and beauty of one of Turkmenistan’s most important religious monuments.
• Independence Park & Neutrality Arch – Discover two of Ashgabat’s most iconic national symbols.
• Wedding Palace – Observe this striking modern architectural masterpiece, a landmark of the city’s futuristic skyline.

Travel Details: Expected travel distance including 4x4: ~270 km; Overnight stay at a hotel in Ashgabat (B/L/D)

The final morning of this incredible 16-day journey is here, and it’s time to bid farewell to the land that has gifted you countless memories. After transfer to the airport, take a moment to reflect on the breathtaking landscapes, the warmth of local hospitality, and the stories that have enriched your soul. Each destination, from the ancient cities of the Silk Road to the untamed deserts and majestic mountains, has left an indelible mark on your heart. 

This is not just the end of a journey - it’s the beginning of a new perspective, a deeper connection to the world, and a treasure trove of memories that will last a lifetime. 

For those who are not ready to say goodbye, the adventure need not end - consider extending your stay to discover even more of Turkmenistan’s hidden gems (check our Turkmenistan tours).

Travel Details: Transfer to airport for departure (B/-/-)