Astana to Tashkent

Astana to Tashkent

27 Days Starting in Astana and ending in Tashkent

Visiting: Astana, Turkistan, Turkistan/ Overnight Train, Almaty, Kolsay Lakes National Park, Kolsay Lakes/Border Crossing/Karakol, Karakol, Bishkek, Issyk-Kul Lake, Song-Kol Lake (3016 metres), Kyzyl-Oi, Suusamyr Valley/Chychkan River/Toktogul, Osh, Border Crossing/Andijan/Tashkent, Tashkent, Bukhara, Samarkand

Tour operator:

Intrepid Travel

Tour code:

KFSKC

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Group size:

1 - 12

Physical rating:

Medium

Age range:

16-99 years

Tour operated in:

English

Trip Styles:

Adventure Tours

From: $6720 $5712 Operator discount: -$1008 -15%

NB: Prices correct on 22-Nov-2024 but subject to change.

Tour Overview

Beginning in the futuristic cityscapes of Astana, take a journey from mighty Kazakhstan to mountainous Kyrgyzstan and historic Uzbekistan. From the ancient city of Turkistan and the Silk Road ruins of Sayram and Otrar, the sights along the way are unlike anywhere else on earth. Take in the tranquil landscape of Son-Kol Lake, see Solomon's Throne in historic Osh and wander mosques and museums in Samarkand and Bukhara. Dive into ancient culture and natural beauty on an adventure that will leave you yearning to discover more of Central Asia.

Highlights

  • Central Asia is a fascinating and unique mix of ancient Silk Road culture, Soviet influence and striving to redefine nations post independence. Geographically and for a time historically, it is the real centre of Asia

  • The much-photographed Registan in Samarkand is one of the true pinnacles of Islamic architecture. You'll be wowed by the scale, grandeur and beauty of the monuments to iconic figures such as Tamerlane and the Persian influenced madressas, mosques and mausoleums.

  • Kyrgyzstan's mountains are its monuments and its majesty. The landscapes here will stay with you long after the journey is over.

  • Marvel at the beautiful Song Kol Lake & Issyk-kul Lake, where in mid-summer you may see flocks of sheep, goats and herds of horses watched over by nomadic herdsmen and their families. Stay in a yurt camp at the shore and live like the locals have for centuries in these portable, felt lined traditional tents.

  • Experience for yourself the legend that is Central Asian hospitality – there's really nothing like being welcomed into a local home or yurt for a meal, chatting with stall holders at bazaars or simply marvelling at the sights alongside locals

  • Discover Central Asia’s fascinating mix of ancient Silk Road culture, Soviet influence and post-independence nations with local leaders to show you the way.

  • Learn about the Silk Road and its history – see the Registan in Samarkand (one of the pinnacles of Islamic architecture), spend time in UNESCO World Heritage-listed, 6th-century Bukhara and uncover the charm of the legendary Turkistan.

  • Immerse yourself in the unique natural landscapes of this seldom-travelled part of the world – be surrounded by the mountains of Kyrgyzstan, take a train ride through the vistas of the Kazakh steppe, see the little 'Grand Canyon' at Charyn and discover the sunken forest of Kolsai Lakes.

  • Be wowed by Song Kol Lake and Issyk-kul Lake, where you may see flocks of sheep, goats and herds of horses with their nomadic herdsmen. Stay in a yurt camp at the shore and live like the locals have for centuries in these traditional tents.

  • Experience traditional Central Asian hospitality – there's really nothing like being welcomed into a local home or yurt for a meal, chatting with stall holders at bazaars or simply chatting with the locals at the sites.

Itinerary

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Day 1: Astana

Location: Astana

Accommodation: Hotel

Meals Included: dinner

Salemetsiz be! Welcome to Kazakhstan. Your adventure begins in Astana with a welcome meeting at 6 pm at your hotel. Astana was purpose-built to become the capital city of Kazakhstan in 1997 and is home to meticulously planned city streets and architecture. The modern metropolis was designed by leading Japanese architect Kisho Kurokawa, who won first prize in a competition against other world-renowned architects. Now, it’s one of the youngest cities in Central Asia. If you arrive early, maybe stroll along the Astana waterfront or go shopping in the world’s largest tent at the Khan Shatyr Entertainment Centre. Tonight, join your leader and group for dinner in town for your first authentic Kazakh food experience.

Day 2: Astana

Location: Astana

Accommodation: Hotel

Meals Included: breaksfast

This morning, join your leader for a city tour around some of the most impressive designs of the new city. Visit Bayterek tower, then stroll down Nur Boulevard to Khan Shatyr – another city landmark in the shape of a giant transparent tent. Visit Nur-Astana Mosque – with its capacity of 5000 worshippers inside and an additional 2000 outside, it’s one of the largest mosques in Central Asia. Then, you'll stop at the Palace of Peace & Reconciliation – a pyramid-shaped conference hall considered Astana's symbolic centre. This afternoon, why not find some horse meat dishes or plov (a popular rice dish with chunks of lamb, onions and carrots) for lunch. After, you’ll met back up with your group and visit a renowned local jeweller and his workshop to learn about his craft.

Included Activities:
-Astana - City tour
-Astana - Local Jewler Visit

Day 3: Turkistan

Location: Turkistan

Accommodation: Hotel

Meals Included: breaksfast

This morning, take a flight to the historic centre of Kazakhstan, Turkistan – home to more relics and cultural sites than any other place in the country. When you arrive, visit the new Caravan Serai – a complex recently built to model ancient Silk Road trade centres, giving visitors a taste of what life was once like here. With your free time in the late afternoon, you can see the Yasawi Mausoleum, illuminated with vivid colours and patterned exteriors.

Included Activities:
-Turkistan – Caravan Serai complex

Day 4: Turkistan/ Overnight Train

Location: Turkistan/ Overnight Train

Accommodation: Overnight Train

Meals Included: breaksfast

Head out on a city tour this morning, starting with a visit to Khoja Ahmed Yasawi Mausoleum – Kazakhstan’s most iconic building. Built by Tamerlane, it’s said that three visits here are equal to one visit to Mecca. As it’s a religious site, it’s recommended that women wear a headscarf when entering. On the grounds, you'll find a rose garden, monuments, an archaeological museum and a mosque. Leaving the mausoleum, jump in your private transport to Shymkent, stopping at the ancient settlement of Otrar on the way. First excavated in 1969, its history dates back to the first century AD, with remnants of palaces, mosques and bathhouses that can still be seen today. This is also where Genghis Khan's army is said to have fought when the Mongols first invaded Central Asia. Board your overnight train in the evening.

Included Activities:
-Otrar - Ancient settlement
-Turkistan - Yasui Mausoleum

Day 5: Almaty

Location: Almaty

Accommodation: Hotel

Meals Included: breaksfast, lunch

Pulling into Alamaty this morning, hop off the train and head out to find some breakfast. Today, you’ll be going on a daytrip to Lake Issyk and Turgen Gorge. Stop at the Issyk Museum – an archaeological reserve dedicated to Kazakh history and Scythian culture (an ancient nomadic people who were particularly skilled in horseback warfare). Continue to Ile-Alatau National Park, where peaceful Lake Issyk sits in the foothills of the surrounding mountains. Relax and refresh on the lakeshore of this stunning spot before carrying on to Turgen Gorge, where a short hike will bring you to a waterfall. On the way back to Almaty, stop by a winery, where you’ll meet with a local craft winemaker and sample some raw wine, craft cheese and tuck into a hearty lunch.

Included Activities:
-Almaty – Winery visit and wine tasting
-Almaty – Turgen Gorge
-Almaty – Lake Issyk

Day 6: Almaty

Location: Almaty

Accommodation: Hotel

Meals Included: breaksfast

Today, you’ll take a city tour of Almaty with a local guide. This former capital of Kazakhstan now has a completely different vibrancy to Astana, with its wide tree-lined streets, numerous parks and the view of the snow-capped mountains. Visit Central Square and the colourful Zenkoff Cathedral in Panfilov Park, dedicated to the 28 guardsmen who died defending Moscow against German tanks in WWII. Check out the fascinating Museum of Kazakh Musical Instruments, which features a great collection of ancient relics. Finally, visit Zelenyi Bazaar and experience the vibrant market scene before returning to the hotel to rest and recharge.

Included Activities:
-Almaty - Zenkov Cathedral
-Almaty - Panfilov Park
-Almaty - Museum of Kazakh Musical Instruments
-Almaty - Zelenyi Bazaar

Day 7: Kolsay Lakes National Park

Location: Kolsay Lakes National Park

Accommodation: Homestay

Meals Included: breaksfast, dinner

This morning, drive to Saty Village, stopping at the spectacular Charyn Canyon along the way. The richly coloured canyon carves a path through the surrounding landscape, with vivid tones of oranges and browns shifting and changing as the sun travels across the sky. Enjoy some time here to marvel at the natural wonder and grab some photos before continuing to Saty Village, where you’ll check into your homestay and experience a taste of local life in the Tien Shan Mountain Range.

Included Activities:
-Charyn Canyon - National Park

Day 8: Kolsay Lakes/Border Crossing/Karakol

Location: Kolsay Lakes/Border Crossing/Karakol

Accommodation: Guest House

Meals Included: breaksfast, lunch

This morning, visit Kolsay Lakes, also known as ‘the blue necklace’ for the clear blue waters framed by the mountains. If there’s time, you’ll take a hike to the lesser-known Kaindy Lake – a turquoise lake with a ‘submerged forest’ protruding from the water. Amazingly, the lake was created by an earthquake in 1911 which caused a limestone landslide, creating a natural dam in the forest. As time went on, the dam filled with water and the trees were covered, leaving just their trunks standing in the centre. Enjoy a picnic lunch, then head over the border to Kyrgyzstan, where you’ll continue your journey to Karakol.

Included Activities:
-Kolsay Lakes National Park - Hiking

Day 9: Karakol

Location: Karakol

Accommodation: Guest House

Meals Included: breaksfast

This morning you’ll head out on a city tour of Karakol – once a small Russian military post, then a bustling soviet state, this town is bursting with history. Visit the Dungan Mosque – built in 1910, this colourful mosque was created without the use of a single nail. Instead, the structure was built using special cutting and groove techniques. You’ll also explore the Holy Trinity Orthodox Cathedral and a local market. Then, head out of the city to see the Jety Oguz, also known as Seven Bull Valley, where your leader will take you on a forest hike to a waterfall with panoramic views. Return to Karakol for another restful night.

Included Activities:
-Karakol - Dungan Mosque
-Karakol - Holy Trinity Orthodox Cathedral
-Karakol - Jeti Orghuz Canyon Hike

Day 10: Bishkek

Location: Bishkek

Accommodation: Hotel

Meals Included: breaksfast, lunch

Today you’ll have a full day's drive to Bishkek, which sits along the northern shore of Issyk Kul – the second largest alpine lake in the world after Lake Titicaca in South America. The views of the landscape are not to be missed, especially your first glimpse of Issyk Kul, surrounded by snow-capped mountains. Along the way, you'll stop at Cholpan Ata to visit a petroglyph's site. Then, take a short boat ride out onto the huge alpine lake to really soak up the beauty of these shimmering waters. In Bishkek, you have a free night, where you might want to head to a final dinner with your group and toast to an amazing adventure.

Included Activities:
-Cholpon Ata - Petroglyphs
-Lake Issyk-Kul - Boat tour

Day 11: Bishkek

Location: Bishkek

Accommodation: Hotel

Meals Included: breaksfast, dinner

Today is a free day in Bishkek until your second welcome meeting at 6 pm, where you’ll meet the new travellers joining you. Maybe take a walk through one of the parks and gardens or head out in search of some samsa (pastry pockets filled with meat and vegetables). After the meeting, why not grab dinner with your new group and get to know each other.

Day 12: Bishkek

Location: Bishkek

Accommodation: Hotel

Meals Included: breaksfast

Embark on city tour that showcases the various stages of Bishkek’s history. Visit the severe Ala-Too Square, once known as Lenin Square, and learn about the towering statue depicting folkloric hero Manas. Continue to Dubovy Park, and wander among the open-air galleries before strolling between the century-old oaks along Freedom Avenue. In the afternoon, you'll have some free time to further explore Bishkek. Quite the contrast to the relaxed quiet streets, square and parks in the city centre, Osh Market is noisy, crowded, and a perfect peek into local life. You'll find all kinds of things on sale here, from spices and fruits to clothes and carpets.

Included Activities:
-Bishkek - City walking tour

Optional Activities:
-Bishkek - State Historical Museum

Day 13: Issyk-Kul Lake

Location: Issyk-Kul Lake

Accommodation: Tourist yurt camp

Meals Included: breaksfast, lunch, dinner

This morning, up and on the road through the beautiful landscaps of Kyrgyzstan. You'll be travelling with our vehicle for the next few days so get ready for a road trip through some pretty stunning mountains and lakes. Firstly stop at Burana Tower, a minaret that is the most visible remnant of the ancient city Balasagun. Then continue to Don Aryk and meet a local Kyrgyz family and enjoy a home-cooked lunch. Then onto the destination of today - Issyk-Kul Lake, the second-largest alpine lake in the world. At 170 - kilometres-long and 70-kilometres-wide, her beauty is a real sight to behold. Your yurt camp for tonight is set up along the south shore of the lake where you'll get a fantastic view of the snow-capped mountains setting behind the lake. Made of felt and tarpaulins on a round frame, yurts are the traditional dwellings of the Kyrgyz people and this will be your 'settlement' for today and tomorrow.

Included Activities:
-Shamsy Valley - Burana tower
-Don Aryk - Kyrgyz family visit and home-cooked lunch

Day 14: Issyk-Kul Lake

Location: Issyk-Kul Lake

Accommodation: Tourist yurt camp

Meals Included: breaksfast, lunch, dinner

With relaxed plans for today, you'll head out to Kyzyl Tuu - known for yurt making. Almost every family here is a yurt making and the village is known far beyond Kyrgyzstan. You'll visit an artisan family who’ll teach you more about their traditional yurts. With a special workshop, you’ll learn the basics of how these nomadic dwellings have been manufactured and how they play an important role in the community here. Enjoy a free afternoon and evening, relax in your yurt camp, jump into the lake, take a hike or sit back and watch the world goes by.

Included Activities:
-Issyk-Kul Lake - Yurt workshop

Day 15: Song-Kol Lake (3016 Metres)

Location: Song-Kol Lake (3016 metres)

Accommodation: Tourist yurt camp

Meals Included: breaksfast, lunch, dinner

Back on the road and travel to Song-Kol Lake, another alpine stunner that is considered a sacred place to many Kyrgyz people, as well as one of the best summer pastures for nomadic herders. On the way, stop at Kochkor to visit the local market and a women's felt co-op. The landscape today will change depending on the season but is sure to be beautiful no matter when you travel. In the summer you might see nomadic herdsmen and their families watching over goats, sheep, and horses. Enjoy exploring your surroundings for the rest of the day, maybe hiking one of the many trails. Tonight, fall asleep in yurts set up along the shore. Tomorrow, those daring enough for an invigorating morning splash can use the lake to wash off the sleep.

Included Activities:
-Kochkor - Market
-Kochkor - Women's Felt Co-op

Day 16: Kyzyl-Oi

Location: Kyzyl-Oi

Accommodation: Guesthouse/Homestay

Meals Included: breaksfast, lunch, dinner

Travel along gravel roads to the tiny village of Kyzyl-Oi, which is squeezed between mountains. On the way, pass large coal deposits and travel along the Kokomeren River, which feeds into the Syr Darya. Enjoy a picnic lunch on the banks of the river in the shade of the trees and use your free time to explore the village on arrival. In the evening, learn how the locals cook their favourite snack - Boorsok.

Included Activities:
-Kyzyl-Oi - Boorsok Cooking Demonstration

Day 17: Suusamyr Valley/Chychkan River/Toktogul

Location: Suusamyr Valley/Chychkan River/Toktogul

Accommodation: Guesthouse/Homestay

Meals Included: breaksfast, lunch, dinner

Get ready for a full-day of driving though big, beautiful landscapes. As the roads in Kyrgyzstan see little regular maintenance, even short distances on a map can take hours. The road crosses the Suusamyr Valley – a high steppe plateau situated at around 2200 metres above sea level. The mountainous surroundings are often dotted with yurts. Continue along the Chychkan River that cuts through the Tien Shan mountain range. Stop here for a while and soak up the amazing scenery. Arrive at tonight's accommodation which is part of the local community based tourism network in Toktogul sometime in the early evening.

Day 18: Osh

Location: Osh

Accommodation: Hotel

Meals Included: breaksfast

After breakfast, get ready for another all-day journey to Osh, the second-largest city in Kyrgystan. Stop en route at Uzgen, an ancient trading town and handicrafts centre along the Silk Road. Although much of the ancient city has been destroyed, a minaret and three mosques that have survived remain important examples of medieval Central Asian architecture. Continue to Osh. Located in the Fergana Valley in the south of the country, Osh is often referred to as the 'Capital of the South' and is the oldest city in the country.

Included Activities:
-Uzgen - Uzgen Minaret & Complex

Day 19: Osh

Location: Osh

Accommodation: Hotel

Meals Included: breaksfast

Rise and shine for a visit to the only World Heritage site in Kyrgystan, the Sulaiman-Too Sacred Mountain, also known as Solomon's Throne. For centuries Silk Road travellers have sought out the mountain's caves and their petroglyphs in the belief that they would be blessed with longevity or healthy children. Visit the National Historical and Archaeological Museum Complex. In the afternoon, enjoy some free time in Osh. Perhaps visit the Jayma Bazaar, where you might pick up an interesting souvenir or two. Or maybe take a self-guided tour of the remnants of Osh's soviet past with a walk to the giant Lenin statue in the city square.

Included Activities:
-Osh - Sulaiman-Too Mountain
-Osh - National Historical and Archaeological Museum Complex

Optional Activities:
-Osh - Bazaar - Free

Day 20: Border Crossing/Andijan/Tashkent

Location: Border Crossing/Andijan/Tashkent

Accommodation: Hotel

Meals Included: breaksfast

This morning, drive to Kyrgyz-Uzbek border, which is just outside of the city. Transfer to Andijan and board a local train to Tashkent (approximately 5.5 hours). The train is a great place to meet locals, so don’t be surprised if people want to chat to the chet ellik (foreigner). Arrive in the evening and check into the hotel.

Day 21: Tashkent

Location: Tashkent

Accommodation: Hotel

Meals Included: breaksfast

Begin your introduction to Uzbekistan by exploring the capital today. Follow your leader on a city walking tour - explore Amir Timur square at the city center, then hop on the metro and lose yourself in the exciting Chorsu Bazaar, browsing traditional wooden cradles, handmade musical instruments, and the extensive vegetable and spice markets. Enjoy a free afternoon and maybe go and visit the Khast Imom complex, a restored series of religious buildings (including a mosque) and a library containing an ancient Qur’an, parts of which have been dated to the ninth century, or simply relax and enjoy some well deserved downtime after a busy journey in Kyrgyzstan.

Included Activities:
-Tashkent - Chorsu Bazaar
-Tashkent - Amir Timur Square

Day 22: Bukhara

Location: Bukhara

Accommodation: Hotel

Meals Included: breaksfast

Travel to Bukhara by train this morning. Located on the ancient Silk Road, Bukhara was an important regional and world hub for many, many years and has a long, fascinating history featuring invasions by both Genghis Khan and the Soviet Red Army. Explore this fascinating city with your tour leader on an orientation walk after arrival and head to the Lyabi-Haus area, a busy 17th-century plaza with hundreds-years-old trees and there is time to wander the small craft studios tucked into the nearby madrasas and trading domes.

Day 23: Bukhara

Location: Bukhara

Accommodation: Hotel

Meals Included: breaksfast

Enjoy a day of sightseeing in beautiful Bukhara. First visit the Sitorai Mohi Khosa, once the summer residence of the last Emir. Designed by Russian architects, it has interiors decorated with traditional filigree plaster, mirrored surfaces and delicate floral wall paintings by local artisans, then visit the Ark Fortress, the symbol of Bukhara before getting to one of Central Asia's oldest and most exquisite structures, the tenth-century Ismail Samani Mausoleum, the superb decorative brickwork of which has survived 1000 years of rugged history. Enjoy a free afternoon to explore this ancient Silk Road town. Maybe visit Bolo Haus Mosque, Chor Minor, Kalon Mosque and Minaret, or Ulukbek Madrassah and Abdulaziz Khan Madrassa.

Included Activities:
-Bukhara - Sitorai Mohi Hosa Palace
-Bukhara - Ismail Samani Mausoleum
-Bukhara - Ark Fortress

Optional Activities:
-Bukhara - Kalon Minaret & Mosque

Day 24: Samarkand

Location: Samarkand

Accommodation: Hotel

Meals Included: breaksfast, dinner

Have a free morning to yourself for some further exploration of Bukhara. In the late afternoon,transfer to the station for train to fabled Samarkand. This city is located at the very centre of the ancient Silk Road. Arrival early evening and follow your leader on a short city orientation walk and maybe an optional dinner together.

Included Activities:
-Samarkand - Leader-led orientation walk

Day 25: Samarkand

Location: Samarkand

Accommodation: Hotel

Meals Included: breaksfast

Enjoy a tour of Samarkand. First up is the central square called the Registan, which features mosques and mausoleums that are true pinnacles of Islamic architecture. Continue to Guri-Amir, where Tamerlane is buried, and then the enormous Bibi-Khanum Mosque. Visit Shak-i-Zinda, a necropolis that features a series of gleaming blue-tiled mausoleums. This sacred site has monuments from the 14th–19th century, reflecting the development of the monumental art and architecture of the Timurid dynasty onwards. It is photo worthy at every turn, just remember to be respectful as pilgrims visit the complex. In the evening, you’ll visit a local family to learn the secrets of plov cuisine during a cooking demonstration in the evening.

Included Activities:
-Samarkand - Bibi-Khanym Mosque
-Samarkand - Registan Square
-Samarkand - Shakh-I-Zinda
-Samarkand - Gur-e-Amir Mausoleum
-Samarkand - Plov cooking demonstration & family visit

Optional Activities:
-Samarkand - Afrosiab Museum
-Samarkand - Ulugbek's Observatory

Day 26: Tashkent

Location: Tashkent

Accommodation: Hotel

Meals Included: breaksfast

This morning, take the train back to Tashkent. Enjoy a free afternoon and why not celebrate this great adventure with an optional farewell dinner tonight?

Day 27: Tashkent

Location: Tashkent

Meals Included: breaksfast

There are no activities planned today and you are able to depart the accommodation at any time after check out.

What's Included

  • Accommodation
    Hotel (17 nights), Overnight Train (1 night), Homestay/Guesthouse (5 nights), Yurt (3 nights)

  • Astana - City tour

  • Turkistan – Caravan Serai complex

  • Otrar - Ancient settlement

  • Turkistan - Yasui Mausoleum

  • Almaty – Winery visit and wine tasting

  • Almaty – Turgen Gorge

  • Almaty – Lake Issyk

  • Almaty - Zenkov Cathedral

  • Almaty - Panfilov Park

  • Almaty - Kok Tobe Hill

show more

What's Not Included

  • Tipping and Gratuities

  • International Travel

Transport

  • Private vehicle , Plane , Train , High Speed Train , Local Train , Metro , Overnight Sleeper Train

Included Activities

  • Nur-Sultan - City tour
  • Baikonur - Yuri Gagarin Museum & House
  • Baikonur - Cosmodrome
  • Baikonur - Space Museum
  • Otrar - Ancient settlement
  • Turkistan - Yasui Mausoleum
  • Almaty - Central State Museum
  • Almaty - Museum of Kazakh Musical Instruments
  • Almaty - Kok Tobe Hill
  • Almaty - Panfilov Park
  • Almaty - Medeu
  • Almaty - Zenkov Cathedral
  • Charyn Canyon - National Park
  • Karakol - Dungan Mosque
  • Karakol - Holy Trinity Orthodox Cathedral
  • Karakol - Przhevalskiy Museum
  • Karakol - Jeti Orghuz Canyon Hike
  • Cholpan Ata - Petroglyphs
  • Bishkek - City Tour
  • Bishkek - City Tour
  • Shamsy Valley - Burana tower
  • Don Aryk - Local home visit & horsemanship demonstration
  • Kochkor - Market
  • Kochkor - Women's Felt Co-op
  • Uzgen - Uzgen Minaret & Complex
  • Osh - Sulaiman-Too Mountain
  • Osh - National Historical and Archaeological Museum Complex
  • Tashkent - Chorsu Bazaar
  • Tashkent - Khast Imom Complex & Moyie Mubarek Library Museum
  • Tashkent - History Museum of the People of Uzbekistan
  • Samarkand - Bibi-Khanym Mosque
  • Samarkand - Gur-e-Amir Mausoleum
  • Samarkand - Shakh-I-Zinda
  • Samarkand - Registan
  • Samarkand - Paper making workshop & home cooked lunch
  • Shakhrisabz - Ak Saray Palace
  • Shakhrisabz - Kok-Gumbaz Mosque
  • Shakhrisabz - Dor-ut Tilovat Memorial Complex
  • Shakhrisabz - Dorus Saodat Complex
  • Bukhara - Ismail Samani Mausoleum
  • Bukhara - Sitorai Mohi Hosa Palace
  • Bukhara - Chor-Bakr Necropolis
  • Bukhara - Ark Fortress
  • Bukhara - Kalon Mosque
  • Vobkent - Minaret
  • Gijduvan - Ceramics workshop

Accommodation

  • OCCASIONAL ALTERNATIVE ACCOMMODATION
  • The style of accommodation indicated in the day-to-day itinerary is a guideline. On rare occasions, alternative arrangements may need to be made due to the lack of availability of rooms in our usual accommodation. A similar standard of accommodation will be used in these instances.
  • TWIN SHARE / MULTI SHARE BASIS
  • Accommodation on this trip is on a twin/multishare basis. Please note there may be times where facilities will be shared rather than ensuite and rare occasions when you share a room with passengers travelling on a different Intrepid trip than your own.
  • CHECK-IN TIME
  • Throughout the trip we request that our hotels prepare rooms in time for our arrival, especially if we're arriving prior to normal check-in time. However this isn't always possible which means we won't be able to check-in immediately on arrival at some hotels. Instead, we can store our luggage and explore our new destination.
  • PRE/POST TRIP ACCOMMODATION
  • If you've purchased pre-trip or post-trip accommodation (subject to availability), you may be required to change rooms from your trip accommodation for these extra nights.
  • HOMESTAYS:
  • Please note that at our homestays you might be required to share a room with people of other genders, or with your leader. Because we stay at real people's homes, beds might be pull-out couches or mattresses on the floor, or even a yurt in their backyard. Some of the accommodation along the way is very basic, staying in local guesthouses, yurts and homestays with limited facilities. Some facilities are shared and some accommodation has cold water only or no bathroom facilities.

Important Information

  • 1. A single supplement is available if you’d prefer not to share a room on this trip. The single supplement excludes Day 4, Day 7 and Day 13-16 where you will be in shared accommodation and is subject to availability. Please speak to your booking agent for further information.
  • 2. Please provide your full name exactly as per passport at the time of booking (including any middle names listed on your passport) for flight and train tickets booking no later than 45 days prior to departure. Fees may apply for amendments or failure to provide the required details within 45 days of departure..

Mode of Transport

  • Private vehicle , Plane , Train , High Speed Train , Local Train , Metro , Overnight Sleeper Train , 4X4 Jeep

Check out our Q&As

  • Is this trip right for you

    This is an overland journey, so there will be some very long days of travelling and driving, often over rough terrain. This can be tiring at times and will require a great deal of patience at others, especially at border crossings. The vehicle size can be rather compact when the group is almost full. This is to enable us to travel to small villages where the general road condition doesn't allow big buses. We find this is a great way for the group to bond and share an amazing journey together and there will be stops along the way to take photos and stretch your legs too.

    Be prepared to experience the full legacy of the Soviet era – not just in the sights and history, but also in the standards of accommodation and service! In other words, while you’ll be comfortable, don’t expect luxury.

    Accommodation may be more basic than what you are used to in homestays, guesthouses and the yurt stay. Shower and toilet facilities will be limited in some places and non-existent in others. While the comfort level won't always be high, the rewards of living in true local style in this far-out part of the world are immeasurable.

    This trip is a combination of two trips. Please review the Itinerary for details of when your fellow travellers and leader will change.

  • What policies are in place for Covid-19?

    Please contact us for latest COVID-19 policies

  • How long has the tour company been trading?

    Intrepid Travel has been taking travellers around the world for over 30 years

  • Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?

    Yes

  • What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?

    Since 2002, The Intrepid Foundation has supported over 130 organisations across the world. We’re creating positive impact through the joy of travel, community and connection.

  • Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?

    Over 50% of traveller travel solo with Intrepid. You can choose to share a room with another solo travelle of the same sex for no additional charge, or choose to pay a single supplement if you’d like your own room. Please request this when booking, and we will secure you a single supplement wherever possible. Please note, if you are booking a last-minute trip, it may be harder for us to secure a single room

Reviews of this operator

Maroochy Dazza (Google Reviewer)  

Just leaving a review to...

24-Aug-2023

Just leaving a review to share how much I enjoyed my Central America trip. I thought the guide, Aura was so knowledgeable and organised and clearly a great ambassador for Intrepid. She gave us lots of information on each region, helped us organise anything we needed and dealt with queries from passengers very well and diplomatically. She made the trip run smoothly. She was also keen to explain the Intrepid vision and how the company values making a difference to locals and is a credit to your company. I did Guatemala and beyond and thoroughly enjoyed it - very fast paced, lots to see and do and a great overview of the region. I would definitely recommend 👍

LivvyGrace 4 (Google Reviewer)  

I just completed my first...

15-Jul-2024

I just completed my first Intrepid tour which was 33 days travelling around Central America - I had the time of my life! It was great to have the benefit of a guide (Fluffy was amazing!) and be able to ask questions at any point, but I also liked the freedom that you were permitted throughout. The group tour made boarder crossings seamless and the whole process felt easy - there was never one hiccup. As a solo female traveller, I felt safe throughout, and I cannot recommend Central America enough - the people, the food, the sun and the activities were just amazing :) Can't wait to book my next adventure soon!

V Open (Google Reviewer)  

I have just come back...

26-Oct-2022

I have just come back home after doing Intrepid's 10-day Vietnam Express Northbound tour. What a SUPERB tour. We saw lots and did lots, it was jam-packed full of sights and activities. Our tour leader, Tam, was the best ever. Very knowledgeable, organised and lots of fun too. The other 10 people on the group were all lovely. The places we visited were very interesting. We even visited local homes and ate just like the local people do. I highly recommend Intrepid to anyone considering touring a new country. This was my 5th tour with them and they have consistently been fantastic.

Jack Edwards (Google Reviewer)  

I have travelled with Intrepid...

03-Jun-2024

I have travelled with Intrepid a number of times now and can't recommend them enough. The trips are always exciting, full of history and immersive in the culture and environment. The office staff are great too and always happy to help with any questions you might have. Everywhere I have gone with the company has been different but the guides and itinerary have always been excellent and full of knowledge and passion for their country. Add in the social responsibility angle the company has and it top quality ethical practice and you can't go wrong

Jo Clayton (Google Reviewer)  

I recently went on an...

15-Mar-2024

I recently went on an 11 day tour of India with Intrepid and was impressed with every aspect of the tour, the tour leader and the organisation behind the scenes. I always travel alone so it was a big deal to join a tour, I didn't want to feel less independent or ferried about. I loved being part of a group and the things we saw and did on the tour, I would never have known about or seen if I had been by myself. I loved it from start to finish. Yes the overnight trains were not easy to sleep on, but I managed. Meeting locals on board was a high light for me. English is widely spoken in India and its amazing who you strike up a chat with. I had two problems on the tour - one my own fault and one hotel related. The support from Intrepid was amazing. I cannot thank them enough for going the extra mile to support me. I recommend Intrepid 100% and have gone from thinking an organised tour is for people who don't know about Lonely Planet and can't do solo stuff, to realising its a faster, better, more fun way to get to know a country truly and deeply whilst on a bit of a budget. I will book again and again with Intrepid. I loved it that much! Big thanks to tour leader Daddy H. Devender for his help on day one, and Nick in the Oz office for his fab customer care skills. Also the person who staffed the emergency whatsapp in India - you saved my sanity helping me get there a day late! THANK YOU ALL X

Nicole  

North American Adventure

12-Oct-2021

This was my first international solo trip, but I never felt “alone” - there was always someone to go shopping, hike, or grab a quick bite with. The itinerary was a great balance between organized activities, while still allowing free time for exploring. Each location was unique and charming in its own way. Spending the night in the holy city of Moulay Idriss and wandering the winding streets of Chefchaouen were especially memorable. Thank you Mustapha and Intrepid for an incredible adventure!

Alice Norton (Google Reviewer)  

I have just completed a...

29-Feb-2024

I have just completed a 12 day food tour of Vietnam, and had an amazing time. Our tour leader was great, knowledgeable and kind, who helped throughout the trip with recommendations for places on our free days, and spas. All the food we tried was delicious. It is a very fast paced tour, and Bon tried to maximise our experiences for the best.

Henry Guy Robinson   United Kingdom

Cambodia Discovery

22-Jan-2024

The overall experience was fantastic. V good tour leader. All places visited had something special to do or see. I would book a tour with this company again. Only one negative tour hub is not I repeat not available to contact direct by phone.

Merouane Harkat   Uk

Explore Southern Africa

08-Mar-2024

Best trip ever was, 2 things I didn't like the black mamba stop was wasting day and village ,so 2 night I think was just wasting, I could do 2 days in Kruger, and one more night in delta

Alan Perrott (Google Reviewer)  

We had a fantastic time...

13-Aug-2024

We had a fantastic time on the Botswana Highlights tour recently. We chose Intrepid because it seemed to suit what we wanted - well planned itinerary, small group, comfortable without being overly luxurious (and pricey), and supportive of the local community and environment. We weren't disappointed, and as we met with other like-minded travellers then we all had a great time. We are already planning our next Intrepid tour - maybe Vietnam & Cambodia :-)

Save on this tour

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Tuesday - Sunday

Apr 08, 2025 - May 04, 2025
$6720 $5712

Operator discount: -$1008

Tuesday - Sunday

May 06, 2025 - Jun 01, 2025
$7060 $6001

Operator discount: -$1059

Tuesday - Sunday

Jun 03, 2025 - Jun 29, 2025
$6720 $5712

Operator discount: -$1008

Tuesday - Sunday

Aug 19, 2025 - Sep 14, 2025
$6720 $5712

Operator discount: -$1008

Tuesday - Sunday

Sep 02, 2025 - Sep 28, 2025
$6990 $5942

Operator discount: -$1048

Saturday - Thursday

Sep 20, 2025 - Oct 16, 2025
$6990 $5942

Operator discount: -$1048

Tuesday - Sunday

Sep 30, 2025 - Oct 26, 2025
$6720 $5712

Operator discount: -$1008

Tuesday - Sunday

Apr 07, 2026 - May 03, 2026
$7055

Tuesday - Sunday

Apr 21, 2026 - May 17, 2026
$7055

Tuesday - Sunday

May 05, 2026 - May 31, 2026
$7340

Tuesday - Sunday

Jun 02, 2026 - Jun 28, 2026
$7055

Tuesday - Sunday

Aug 18, 2026 - Sep 13, 2026
$7340

Tuesday - Sunday

Aug 25, 2026 - Sep 20, 2026
$7340

Tuesday - Sunday

Sep 01, 2026 - Sep 27, 2026
$7615

Saturday - Thursday

Sep 19, 2026 - Oct 15, 2026
$7615

Tuesday - Sunday

Sep 29, 2026 - Oct 25, 2026
$7615
Prices last published on 22-Nov-2024

Book with Confidence

  • Free Date Changes

    Intrepid Travel allows you to make 10 free date changes, as long as the change is made at least 56 days before the start of the tour.

  • Transfer as credit to Future Tours

    Intrepid Travel allows you to transfer existing payments to a future tour to avoid cancellation fees if you can't travel and inform intrepid travel, 56 days before departure.

  • Low Deposit

    Intrepid Travel requires a minimum deposit of 400 USD per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 56 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of intrepid travel charges.

    Up to 56 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

    At 55 days before tour starts: Forfeit 30% of booking price.

    At 30 days before tour starts: Forfeit 60% of booking price.

    At 14 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.

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