Timeless Stans & Turkmenistan with Mary Extension

Day 1 - Almaty 

Welcome to Almaty, Kazakhstan’s largest city, set against the backdrop of the Tien Shan Mountains. You will be met at the airport and transferred to your hotel. Depending on when you arrive the rest of the day is yours to relax after your journey. 

Tonight, you will meet your local tour guide for a pre-tour briefing, providing a complete overview of the trip ahead, followed by the option of joining the group for an informal dinner

Day 2 - Almaty 

Our day begins with a tour to the stunning mountain settings just outside the city. We drive to Medeo, the world's highest ice rink, and continue to the Shymbulak Mountain Resort, where we will take a scenic cable car to an elevation of 3,200 metres for amazing views. 

In the afternoon, we return to Almaty and drive to the vibrant Green Bazaar. Here you have the chance to wander around and chat to the locals.  We will then enjoy a leisurely stroll through Panfilov Park, where you will see the beautifully painted Zenkov Cathedral and the Memorial of Glory with its Eternal Flame.  We will then head to Kok-Tobe Hill to view the world's tallest TV tower and enjoy a scenic cableway ride back down to the city centre.

Tonight is at your leisure to continue to explore the city.

Day 3 - Almaty - Charyn Canyon - Karakol 

After breakfast, we head to Charyn Canyon, often nicknamed the ‘Little Brother’ to the Grand Canyon. You will have the opportunity to take a walk through this impressive canyon, where erosion by the Charyn River has created dramatic and colourful landscapes. 

We will enjoy lunch at the riverside before continuing our drive into Kyrgyzstan. Upon arrival in Karakol, we check into our hotel where you have the evening at your leisure, or you can join the group for an optional dinner this evening.

Day 4 - Karakol - Tamga 

We begin the day after breakfast with a tour of Karakol. We will visit  the Prejevalskiy Museum, dedicated to the famous Russian explorer. We will also see the intricately designed Russian Orthodox Church and the unique architecture of the Dungan Mosque. 

After our tour we will depart for Tamga and the "Ak Orgo" Community Workshop in Barskoon Village for a truly authentic experience. Here, you will learn about the process of making Yurts and participate in a yurt building activity.

We will then make our way to check into our traditional Yurt Camp to settle in for the night and dinner.

Day 5 - Tamga - Naryn

This morning after breakfast, we will visit Fairytale canyon (or Canyon Skazka) , a gorge formed of colourful hardened clay that naturally resembles fairytale castles. 

After time to explore we start our journey to Naryn. We will make a stop at Bokonbayevo Village, renowned for its tradition of breeding wild predator birds. We have time to meet with the locals, learn about their ancient craft, and witness a demonstration of a hunting bird.  We will enjoy lunch with a  local family in the village before continuing our drive to Naryn.

Naryn is situated in a valley so the surroundings you will find yourself in are quite spectacular: the Tien Shan mountain peaks, alpine meadows, and scenic rivers. After arrival we will check into the hotel and you have the rest of the night at your leisure.

Day 6 - Naryn - Tash-Rabat - Naryn

Today, after breakfast, we will embark on a spectacular day trip to Tash-Rabat, a 15th-century stone caravanserai located on the Great Silk Road (approx. 220-kilometre drive each way). This remote and unique roadside inn is nestled in a beautiful valley and offers a tangible connection to the ancient trade routes. We will spend time exploring this historic structure and its surroundings.

After arriving back in Naryn the rest of the evening is at your leisure.

Day 7 - Naryn - Kochkor - Burana Tower - Bishkek

After breakfast, we make our way to Kochkor Village, the centre of felt production in Kyrgyzstan. We will also take part in a masterclass in making traditional felt rugs. Local artisans produce beautiful felt carpets, called shirdak, and felt-covered yurts.

 After lunch we stop to visit the mediaeval Balasagyn city and famous Burana Tower, an ancient minaret in the Chuy Valley in northern Kyrgyzstan. The 24-metre-high tower with funerary monuments, earthworks, remains of a castle and three mausoleums was founded by Karakhanids at the end of the 9th-century. 

In the afternoon we continue our day to Bishkek, the capital of Kyrgyzstan, nestled at the foot of the Tian Shan mountains. It’s also known as the greenest city in Central Asia due to its leafy streets and green spaces.

After checking into the hotel the night is yours to relax.

Day 8 - Bishkek 

After breakfast at the hotel, we will travel 45-km to see our first amazing attraction, Ala-Archa Gorge.  The gorge lies within the national park on a spur of the Tien Shan mountain range. It is a magical place for hiking, enjoying fresh air, and the scenery is just breathtaking. 

Afterward, we will return to Bishkek and visit the main sights. Our first stop is the heart of the city, Ala-Too Square, the main city space used for political demonstrations, festivals and events. Formally known as Lenin Square until 1991, there is also a military monument with an hourly changing of guards. You will see the large statue of Lenin here. We will also see the Monument to Manas the Great, which stands in front of the National History Museum on the square. 

We will then return to the hotel where the rest of the day can be spent as you wish. 

Day 9 - Bishkek - Tashkent

After breakfast, we will visit the Monument to Manas the Great, which stands in front of the National History Museum on the square. You will have some free time to explore the bustling Osh Market for some last minute souvenir shopping.

This afternoon, we will drive to the airport for  our flight to Tashkent.  Tashkent, is the capital of Uzbekistan and is a vibrant and historically rich city, with a history spanning over two millennia. 

We will be met at the airport by our tour leader where we will proceed to the hotel to check in and rest up for the next day or exploring. 

Day 10 - Tashkent 

After breakfast at the hotel, our city tour begins with a visit to the old part of the city and the religious complex of Khasti Imam. Here, you’ll see Kaffal Shashi Mausoleum, Barak Khan Madrassah, Muay-Mubarak Mosque, which is also home to the Koran of Khalif Osman and gold hair of prophet Muhammad. The Dzhuma-mosque of Khodja Akhrar Vali and Kukeldash Madrassah will also be visited this morning.

Our last stop of the day is at the Chorsu Oriental Bazaar, a true feast for the senses, where you will visit a local bread bakery, explore the street food market, and have the opportunity to try local Kebab or Khanum (steamed dough dumplings). Don’t forget to look up - the most stunning feature of the bazaar is its huge blue dome.

The rest of the afternoon and evening is yours to enjoy. If you like you can join the tour leader to visit Tashkent's famous TV Tower for panoramic views, followed by a tour of the city's beautiful metro stations and key Soviet-era monuments.

Day 11 - Tashkent - Khujand 

After breakfast, we will head to the border of Tajikistan where you’ll meet your new leader and driver and continue the journey to Khujand, a city in the Fergana Valley. Located on the Great Silk Road and the only city built on the bank of the Syr-Darya River, in 1986, the city celebrated its 2,500th anniversary.

On arrival that afternoon we will check into our hotel and start exploring the city. We will visit the Republican Historical-Ethnographic Museum, one of Tajikistan's most important cultural institutions, the Timur-Malik Fortress, also known as Khujand Fortress; Timur Malik was a statesman, and the emperor of Khujand. Archaeological Museum, the Mosque and Madrasah of Sheikh Muslihiddin, a complex consisting of the cathedral mosque, a 19th-century minaret and the Mausoleum of Sheikh Muslihiddin.

Finally, we will stop by the Payshanba Bazaar, which is situated in front of Khujand Mosque. The bustling marketplace building itself is an architectural marvel; its central building a striking example of Soviet-era architecture blended with traditional Central Asian design elements.

The evening is yours to relax your leisure.

Day 12 - Khujand - Dushanbe 

After an early breakfast we will head to the capital, Dushanbe. On our way we will stop at Istravshan to visit the monumental concrete bust of Lenin. This is one of the largest in the world, standing around 20 meters high and accessible after climbing over 300 steps. It is a prominent Soviet-era monument.

Our journey continues after lunch through two significant mountain passes, the Anzob Pass and the Shakhristan Pass, offering incredible picturesque sights (have your camera handy!).

After checking into our hotel tonight is at your leisure.

Day 13 - Dushanbe 

After breakfast at the hotel, we’ll stop at our first site of the day, the Tajikistan United Museum, one of the most significant cultural institutions and a great place to start your introduction to the history and culture of the country. The Buddha in Nirvana is one of the most iconic exhibits and dates back to the 7th century.

Afterwards, we will make a stop at the Botanical Garden, a tranquil space that showcases a wide variety of plants from Tajikistan and other parts of the world.

Followed by a visit to the Oriental Bazaar, always a favourite, and also known as the Green Bazaar. It really is an exciting cultural experience to have and get a glimpse into everyday life in Tajikistan. Purchase nuts and spices, dried fruit and traditional Tajik bread, known as non.

After lunch, we will head to the beautiful Hissar Fortress more than 2,500 years old, and opposite, the Madrasah Kukhna (Old madrasah). Built in the 17th century, the madrasah had up to 150 pupils learning the Koran, the khadises (Prophet’s sayings), the history of Islam and more.

We will then return to Dushanbe where the rest of the evening will be spent as you wish.

Day 14 - Dushanbe - Iskanderkul - Panjakent 

After an early breakfast we will head to the once ancient town of Panjakent. The drive is a picturesque one so make sure you have your camera handy! We will travel via Anzob mountain pass and the Anzob Tunnel (or Istiqlol Tunnel), a 5,040 metre long tunnel which took several years to construct. En route we will stop at beautiful Iskanderkul, a glacial lake and spend some time walking along the shore and taking in the scenery.

On arrival in Panjakent, you will check into the hotel and spend the rest of the day as you wish.

Day 15 - Panjakent - Samarkand 

This morning, after breakfast, we will visit the ruins of the ancient settlement of Sarazm. Meaning ‘where the land begins’, this UNESCO site bears testimony to the development of human settlements in Central Asia (from the 4th millennium BCE to the end of the 3rd millennium BCE).

We will proceed to the land border to Uzbekistan where you will meet your new guide and driver who will continue our trip to Samarkand, among the oldest continuously inhabited cities in Central Asia.

Once in town we will enjoy lunch at a local restaurant before checking into our hotel.

That afternoon, we will begin our sightseeing tour with a visit to the Gūr-i Amīr Complex, the impressive mausoleum of the 14th-century conqueror Timur. We continue to the most iconic public squares in Central Asian, Registan Square. One of the most beautiful sites on the Silk Road. You’ll see intricate tile work and vibrant colours displayed - all different perspectives depending on the time of day visited.

Tonight is at your leisure to continue exploring the city or relaxing back at the hotel.

Day 16 - Samarkand 

After breakfast, we continue exploring Samarkand’s treasures. We start the day by visiting the Ulugh Beg Observatory, built in the 1420s by the Timurid astronomer. We visit Khodja Doniyor (St Daniel) Mausoleum before continuing to The Shah-i-Zinda Ensemble, a collection of mausoleums and ritual buildings dating from the 11th to 19th centuries.

After lunch, we will visit some more Samarkand icons, Bibi-Khanym Mosque, the largest mosque in Samarkand, with its three domed rooms, covered galleries and open courtyard. We finish the day with time to explore the vibrant old town market, Siyob Bazaar.

We return to the hotel to relax as tonight is at your leisure.

Day 17 - Samarkand - Bukhara 

After breakfast we will bid farewell to Samarkand and board the train to Bukhara, a UNESCO World Heritage city, known for its well-preserved medieval architecture and rich history.

Upon arrival we will check into our hotel before starting our afternoon tour.

This afternoon we start at Ismail Samani Mausoleum, recognised as an architectural masterpiece due to its geometric forms. We continue to Chashma Ayub Mausoleum, located in an ancient cemetery and currently under UNESCO review, before finishing at the Ark Citadel, the oldest structure in Bukhara.

Tonight is yours to relax.

Day 18 - Bukhara 

After breakfast, we set off for a comprehensive sightseeing tour of Bukhara. We explore the central Lyab-i Hauz Architectural Ensemble, which includes the Kukeldash Madrasah and the Nadir Divan-Begi Madrasah.

We continue to the spectacular Po-i-Kalyan Complex, often considered the symbol of Bukhara, featuring the towering Kalyan Minaret.

Finally, we visit the historical Ulugbek Madrasah, renowned for being the oldest surviving madrasah in Central Asia and a model for later structures. We finish the day at Abdulaziz-Khan Madrasah, known for its ornate tilework and grandeur.

Tonight is at your leisure.

Day 19 - Bukhara 

Today is a free day to explore the historic city of Bukhara at your own pace.

You might choose to wander the covered trading domes, famous for their spice and textile shops, visit the unique Chor Minor mosque with its distinctive four minarets, or simply relax at a traditional teahouse beside the peaceful Lyab-i Hauz pond.

Day 20 - Bukhara - Khiva 

After breakfast we will travel to Khiva, across the Kyzyl-Kum Desert, one of Central Asia's largest deserts, and along the Amu Darya River. The Amu Darya is one of the longest rivers in Central Asia, around 2,540 kilometres long and was a vital part of the Silk Road.

Once we check in, the rest of the day is yours to enjoy.

Day 21 - Khiva 

After breakfast at the hotel, we will depart for an enjoyable day taking in the sites of Khiva. The historical Ichan Kala, Pahlavan Mahmud Complex, built in 1664, Kunya-Ark Fortress, Islam Hajj Madrasah and Minaret.

After a leisurely lunch together, we’ll continue onto the Tash-Khauli Palace which was built in 1830 and is a perfect example of the Khorezm architectural grandeur of those times.

A visit to Juma Mosque, Muhammad Amin Khan Minaret & Madrasah and Avesta Museum, a museum dedicated to the sacred book, will follow in the afternoon.

We will then return to the hotel and freshen up before heading out to enjoy dinner at a traditional restaurant with a folklore show - plenty of music and dancing!

Day 22 - Khiva - Dashoguz - Darvaza Yurt Camp

Today begins with an early morning check out as we prepare to cross from Uzbekistan into Turkmenistan. We take a bus drive to the border crossing point, where we complete the necessary formalities.

After crossing, we travel to Dashoguz and visit the highlights of the City Square and the local Bazaar where you will have time to visit the local vendors and have lunch.

In the afternoon, we will drive to the Darvaza gas crater, stopping off to visit mud and water craters along the way. The crater is nicknamed ‘Door to Hell’ or ‘Gates of Hell’ and has been burning since the 1980s.
We will arrive in Darvaza before sunset and enjoy a BBQ dinner together. We will spend the night in our 2-person yurts.

Day 23 - Darvaza Yurt Camp - Ashgabat 

After breakfast, we will drive to the city of Ashgabat, the capital of Turkmenistan.  We will check into our hotel before having some time to relax before our afternoon of sightseeing.

Our first stop is Parthian Fortresses of Nisa, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the Turkmenbashi Ruhy Mosque. Our tour continues as we explore the modern monuments of Ashgabat, including Independence Park, the Ruhnama Monument, the Neutrality Arch, and the panoramic viewpoint at the Wedding Palace. We will also visit Halk Hakydasy Memorial Complex.

Tonight is yours to relax at your leisure.

Day 24 - Ashgabat 

After breakfast we continue our sightseeing with a visit to the National Museum of Turkmenistan, offering insight into the nation's history and culture. We will then head to horse stables to see the very special Akhal Teke horses, a breed that is more than three thousand years old.

 Lastly, we will head to the beautiful Ertuğrul Gazi Mosque, with four minarets and a central dome. Make sure to check out the beautiful interior and fine stained glass windows.

The afternoon and evening is yours to explore or relax at your leisure.

Day 25 - Ashgabat - Mary

After breakfast, you will meet your guide, to begin your journey to Mary. Along the way, we will visit the Anau Ruins Mosque, an important historical site. Upon arrival in Mary, you’ll embark on an introductory tour of the city, where we’ll visit the bustling local bazaar, the impressive Gurbanguly Haji Mosque, and the beautifully serene Russian Orthodox Church.

After a day of discovery, we’ll transfer you to your hotel for check-in, where you’ll have the evening free to relax and enjoy your overnight stay.

Day 26 - Mary - Merv - Mary - Ashgabat 

After breakfast, we'll begin our day with a transfer to the ancient city of Merv, a UNESCO World Heritage site that holds centuries of history. Once we arrive, get ready to step back in time as we explore this remarkable historical park.

Our tour will take us through some of Merv's most iconic landmarks, including the impressive Sultan Sanjar Mausoleum, the grand Large and Small Gyz Gala, and the ancient Erk Gala, where you can imagine the bustling life of the past. We'll also visit the Gyaur Gala, Keshk Fortresses, and the beautifully preserved Muhammed ibn Zaid Mausoleum, among other fascinating sites. Each stop will offer a unique insight into the city's rich history and cultural significance.

After exploring Merv’s wonders, we’ll return to Mary, where we'll transfer you to the airport for your flight back to Ashgabat. Upon arrival, we'll transfer you to your hotel, where you can unwind and enjoy the evening at your leisure.

Day 27 - Ashgabat

Today marks the end of your incredible tour through the Timeless Five Stans.