Kyrgyzstan, Kazakhstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, UzbekistanJourneys: Echoes of the Silk Road
Arrive at any time. Arrival transfer is included. This evening, gather for a group welcome meet-up before a delicious dinner at a traditional restaurant.
Your Welcome Moment: Welcome Moment - Meet Your Expedition Leader and Group
Your opportunity to meet your National Geographic Expedition Leader and fellow travellers, and learn more about your tour. Opt to join the group for a local meal afterwards. Don't forget to see the notice in the lobby (or ask reception) for the official time and place to meet up with the group.
Accommodation
Below is an example of the hotel we may use in this city. For the actual hotel your specific departure will be using, please check your voucher.
Park Hotel Bishkek
After breakfast, explore Kyrgyzstan’s lively capital on a guided walking tour through Bishkek’s wide boulevards, leafy parks and Soviet-era architecture. Then dive deeper into the region’s past with a visit to the National History Museum, where exhibits trace the country’s nomadic roots and complex political evolution. This afternoon, enjoy free time to explore Bishkek on your own. Opt to venture into the nearby Ala Archa National Park for a scenic hike to the striking Broken Heart Stone, surrounded by alpine meadows and rugged mountain views. This evening, experience Kyrgyz hospitality firsthand over a traditional dinner hosted by a local family, –an opportunity to connect, share stories and learn more about daily life.
Bishkek City Tour
Get to know the capital of Kyrgyzstan better on a guided tour. See the highlights of the city like Ala-Too Square, the Paramount Kyrgyz Republic Flag, the Manas Statue of the hero of Kyrgyzstan and the Eternal Flame in Victory Square.
National History Museum Guided Tour
Explore the Kyrgyz National History Museum alongside a local guide. As one of the most important museums in Central Asia, experience the cultural heritage of the Kyrgyz people with artifacts and sculptures that date back to 1st century.
Kyrgyz Family Meal
Indulge in a 3 course meal alongside the friendly Kyrgyz hosts at a family dinner to connect with and learn about Kyrgyz culture, lifestyles, and cuisine.
Free Time
Opt to hike to the Broken Heart Stone in Ala Archa National Park.
Optional Activities - Day 2Show
Accommodation
Park Hotel Bishkek
Feel transported back in time with a visit to the Burana Tower, a remnant of the ancient Silk Road city of Balasagan, where you'll explore the on-site museum to learn about the region’s early civilization. Continue to Iskra Village for a special lunch with a local Dungan Family-descendants of Chinese Muslims who settled in Kyrgyzstan in the 19th century. Hear their stories and see their traditions through dress while sharing a home-cooked meal. This afternoon, journey along the northern shore of Issyk Kul Lake to the Cholpan Ata Petroglyphs, where a local historian– professor will guide you through the site’s ancient rock carvings and explain the rich symbolism behind them. As observed by National Geographic Explorer Paul Salopek in his “Out of Eden Walk” project, we'll be looking at Turkic-era petroglyphs dating back over 3,500 years ago. See images of mostly animals such as ibex and deer, but also depictions of archers and chariots.
Private Vehicle
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Your Journeys Highlight Moment: Cholpon-Ata Petroglyphs with Local Historian and Professor
Join a lecture by a local professor from the National University of Kyrgyzstan for an incredible introduction to the Cholpon-Ata Petroglyphs. These rock carvings, found on stones scattered across a 42-hectare site, represent Kyrgyzstan's rich history. The site is thought to have been a sacred area for ancient peoples, including the Saka-Usun tribes, who performed rituals and sacrifices to the sun god.
Iskra Village Dungan Family Lunch
Enjoy an intimate and delicious local lunch in the family home of a local Dungan family, of Chinese-Hui Muslim minority group. Learn about the history of their migration, their tradition, and then try a traditional Dungan Chinese meal.
Burana Tower Visit
Visit the historical site of Burana and climb the stairs to check out the view from the top. A large minaret, along with some grave markers and remnants of a castle and mausoleums, are all that remain of the 9th century city of Balasagun.
Accommodation
Altyn Bulak Lakeside Resort
Today starts at Reina Kench Farm, a family run place dedicated to preserving Kyrgyzstan's nomadic traditions and the ancient practice of Central Asian horse breeding. Learn how the family’s deep connection to the land and animals has influenced their way of life for generations. Afterwards, journey to Karakol where you’ll join a guided tour to discover the city’s unique blend of architecture and heritage, from the colourful Dungan Mosque, the ornate Russian Orthodox Church to the Przhevalsky Museum.
Private Vehicle
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Your Journeys Highlight Moment: Reina Kench Horse Farm
Visit the family-run Reina Kench Horse Farm to learn about the importance of horses in nomadic Kyrgyz culture. Learn about life on the farm, the history of this special horse breed and their role on the farm today.
Karakol City Tour
Jump on a mini-bus and see what Karakol has to offer. Stop by the Russian Orthodox Cathedral to admire the unique architecture. This beautiful wooden church was built in 1895, after the old structure was destroyed by an earthquake, and is still used for services on Sundays. Next, visit the colourful Dungan Mosque originally built in 1910 that almost resembles a Buddhist temple. This is the only mosque in the area and definitely worth checking out.
Przhevalsky Museum Visit
Visit a fascinating museum dedicate to the Russian explorer Nikolai Przhevalsky. The museum offers insight into his life, travels and displays some of the flora and fauna endemic to the area.
Accommodation
Hotel Oimo Karakol
This morning, visit the G Adventures-supported organization, Ak Orgoo, to learn the traditional practice of yurt building from locals working to preserve and share their nomadic heritage. Enjoy a homemade lunch before continuing to the striking red rock formations of Jety-Oguz for a scenic hike to the Broken Heart, a site steeped in legend and framed by dramatic alpine landscapes. This evening, gather around the table with a Cossack family who will welcome you for dinner and a conversation about their ancestry, customs and resilience, giving you a deeper understanding of one of Central Asia’s lesser-known cultural groups.
Your G for Good Moment: Yurt Building Demonstration
Visit the Ak-Orgo workshop, a G Adventures-supported project working to preserve Kyrgyz traditions and create employment opportunities in Barskoon. Observe how traditional yurts are built.
Jety Oguz and the Broken Heart
Visit the stunning Seven Bulls in the Jety Oguz mountain area. Watch as the bright red sandstone seemingly changes color hues as the sun reflects off the unique rock formations. Visit the Broken Heart and learn the legend of the Stone.
Cossak Family Dinner
Have dinner with a local Cossack family and learn about their cuisine and ancestry to understand one of Central Asia’s lesser-known cultural groups.
Accommodation
Hotel Oimo Karakol
After breakfast, cross the border into Kazakhstan’s wide open steppe and rugged mountain landscape. Pause for a scenic picnic lunch at Black Canyon. After arriving at Saty Village, climb into a 4x4 for an excursion to the surreal waters of Kaindy Lake. Here, a forest of submerged spruce trees rises eerily from the surface-an unforgettable and perfect place for a hike. This evening, connect with Kazakhstan’s rural life with dinner at a local family’s home. Share stories and a warm meal in this peaceful mountain community.
Private Vehicle
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Kyrgyzstan - Kazakhstan Border Crossing
Ready for a little more ink in your passport? Grab your bags and get ready to check another country off your bucket list.
Accommodation
Hotel Kolsay Prestige
Head out for a visit to Charyn Canyon, known as the "Grand Canyon of Central Asia.. Walk through its towering red rock formations, sculpted over millions of years by wind and water. This natural wonder shows off Kazakhstan’s powerful geological forces. As mentioned in the National Geographic article by Jessica Vincent “Hiking Kazakhstan: a day in Charyn Canyon National Park,” you’ll feel as though you're standing on the moon while equally feeling as though you are walking beneath giant skyscrapers of red rock. The afternoon will bring you to Almaty, which was the capital of Kazakhstan until 1997. Head out on an orientation walk then enjoy the rest of the day.
Private Vehicle
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Private Vehicle
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Charyn Canyon Visit
Enjoy the views of the beautiful Charyn Canyon. Breathe the fresh air and snap a few photos of this stunning landscape.
Accommodation
Renion Park Hotel
Set out on a city tour of Almaty strolling through Republic Square, once the heart of Soviet power, then wander the tree-lined paths of Panfilov Park to visit the beautiful, all-wooden Ascension Cathedral. Then immerse yourself in the rhythm of daily life at the bustling Zeleny Bazaar, where vibrant stalls overflow with fragrant spices, bright produce and local delicacies. Afterwards, the afternoon is yours to explore on your own. Tonight, enjoy dinner and a show at a local restaurant.
Free Time
Enjoy the rest of the day to explore Almaty.
Almaty City Tour
Get to know Almaty on a city tour, visiting the most stunning sights. Stop by the colourful Ascension Cathedral, constructed entirely of wood without the use of any nails. It survived an earthquake in 1911 and continues to stand today. Walk through Panfilov's Park and the historical part of the city. Visit the new part of Almaty known as Independence Square, and stop by the WWII Memorial.
Optional Activities - Day 8Show
Accommodation
Renion Park Hotel
A flight today brings you to Dushanbe, Tajikistan’s green capital where grand boulevards, colorful markets and Soviet-Era monuments reflect a complex and fascinating history. The city of Dushanbe was shaped by centuries of Silk Road exchange and rich Persian influence. See the area around your hotel to get your footing in the city, then enjoy a traditional folklore show over dinner.
Plane
Look! Up in the sky! It's a bird! It's a plane! It's... yup, it is a plane, actually.
Dushanbe Orientation Walk
Take an orientation walk of Dushanbe to get the lay of the land.
Accommodation
The Rumi Hotel
Dive into the history and culture of Tajikistan on a guided tour of Dushanbe. Begin at Somoni Square, a proud symbol of national identity, then marvel at the intricate design and craftsmanship of Navruz Palace. Visit the city’s largest mosque which reveals the country’s spiritual traditions. Savour a hearty lunch of plov, the national dish often prepared for guests and celebrations. This afternoon, venture beyond the city to Hisor Fortress with its ancient gates and centuries-old stone walls, which were a resting place for Silk Road travellers.
Guided City Tour of Dushanbe
Visit the highlights of the capital city of Tajikistan on a guided tour, seeing the Somoniy Square, Navruz Palace and the main Mosque of Dushanbe.
Hisor Fortress
On the outskirts of Dushanbe lives one of the best preserved historical sites in the country: The Hisor Fortress. Built around 2500 years ago and strategically built on a hilltop, learn about its incredible history with a visit to Hisor Fortress.
Accommodation
The Rumi Hotel
Begin the day at the National Museum of Antiquities of Tajikistan, home to a remarkable collection of artifacts that trace the region’s ancient civilization. Join a local archaeologist for a special guided visit, delving into the history of Buddhism in Central Asia and its influence along the Silk Road. Later, feel welcomed in a local Tajik home for a hands-on bread-making experience of “non,” the famous Tajik round, golden flatbread.
National Museum of Antiquities of Tajikistan
Connect with Tajikistan's unique history at the National Museum of Antiquities of Tajikistan. Join a local archeologist and learn about Buddhism in Central Asia.
Your Journeys Highlight Moment: Tajik Almosi Village Visit and Bread Making
Take a tour of the beautiful Tajik Almosi village to learn about the local customs and traditions. Head to the home of a local family for lunch. Together alongside our family hosts, we'll learn to make homemade bread from scratch.
Accommodation
The Rumi Hotel
Fly to Uzbekistan with time to uncover Tashkent’s Soviet legacy on a guided tour in the afternoon. Explore Tashkent’s underground metro, said to be the most beautiful in the world as it doubles as an art gallery. Visit Kosmonaut Square, a tribute to the Soviet space program, and see other architectural wonders like the Uzbekistan Hotel and Zhemchug Resident Complex. Finish at the Monument of Courage, a tribute to the rebuilding of the city after a devastating earthquake. This evening, gather for a farewell dinner.
Plane
Look! Up in the sky! It's a bird! It's a plane! It's... yup, it is a plane, actually.
Guided City Tour of Tashkent
Visit the city's highlights with a local guide. Ride the Russian-esque metro, visit the religious centre of the city and the famous Soviet Monuments. Wander the neighbourhood streets, learn about daily life, the Uzbek people and history of the city.
Accommodation
Mir Luxe Plaza Hotel
Visit the fascinating Institute of the Sun, a unique research centre where science, architecture and spirituality intersect. Here you’ll learn about its design and role in Uzbekistan’s scientific history. Relish the chance to see more of Tashkent on your own during a free afternoon. Explore places like Tashkent TV Tower or browse locally made crafts at the Human House concept store, a place where multiple local artists have a space to show off their contemporary designs. Gather this evening for a festive three-course meal paired with a lively folk show that brings Uzbekistan’s musical and dance traditions to life.
Free Time
Take the afternoon to explore Tashkent on your own.
Institute of Sun Visit
Visit the famous Institute of Sun and see its incredible architecture. The coolest part is seeing the blue sky and the mountains in the reflection of the giant mirrors covering the Solar Furnace. Don't forget your camera!
Optional Activities - Day 13Show
Accommodation
Mir Luxe Plaza Hotel
Set out on a guided tour of the State History Museum of Uzbekistan, where ancient artifacts and exhibits trace the region’s evolution–from early civilization to Silk Road empires, then Soviet rule. After, step into the spiritual heart of the city at the Religious Center of Tashkent, home to the beautifully restored Hasti Imam complex and the revered Museum of the Koran to see one of the world’s oldest Qurans. Then, wander through the vibrant lanes of Chorsu Bazaar, where local life rushes around the mounds of spices, fresh produce and handwoven goods. At the bazaar, sample honim, a beloved Uzbek dish of steamed dough filled with spiced vegetables.
Chorsu Bazaar
Wander through the colourful stalls in Central Asia's biggest and most historic bazaar. Try some local fruits and nuts while enjoying the fragrant smells and bustling atmosphere. Indulge in the local Honim for lunch, a traditional Uzbek wrapped dumpling with potato.
Religious Centre of Tashkent
In the old town of Tashkent, visit the Religious Centre of Tashkent to see the Hasti Imam & Museum of Koran.
State History Museum of Uzbekistan
Step back in time with a visit to the State History Museum of Uzbekistan with artifacts that date all the way back to the Stone Age, including a collection of historic Buddhist motifs and a Muslim section.
Accommodation
Mir Luxe Plaza Hotel
Travel this morning through the Uzbek desert on a high-speed train to Samarkand–one of the Silk Road’s most legendary cities. Upon arrival, take a guided tour beginning at Ulugbek Observatory. We’ll hear the story of its namesake, the 15th-century astronomer and ruler who mapped the stars with astonishing precision, leaving behind one of the Islamic world’s most important scientific legacies. Continue to the Afrosiob Museum, positioned on ancient Samarkand. Here, we’ll meet with the head archeologist who will share insights into the city’s ongoing excavations. This evening, join a local family to try the nation’s signature rice pilaf dish, plov. As you learn how the meal is prepared, the family will also explain its symbolism.
Train
Climb aboard, take a seat, and enjoy the ride.
Guided Tour of Samarkand
Take a guided tour of the historic city of Samarkand, visiting famous spots like the Ulugbek Observatory and Shakhi Zinda Complex.
Your Journeys Highlight Moment: Archeologist Guided Afrasiab Museum Visit
Visit the the Afrasiab Museum, located on the historic settlement of Afrasiab, one of the largest archeological sites in the world. Hear an introduction lecture from the head archeologist of the University of Samarkand, who participates in excavation works at Afrasiab and other ancient Sogd sites.
Your Local Living Moment: Plov Cooking Class and Dinner
Visit a local family and learn how to make Plov, a traditional dish found all throughout Central Asia that varies from country to country and household to household. In Uzbekistan, it's most often a combination of rice, carrots, onions and lamb cooked in a massive cast iron, wok-like pan. Enjoy the delicious results for dinner.
Accommodation
Kosh Havuz Boutique Hotel
Continue exploring Samarkand with a guided visit to two of the city’s most iconic landmarks: Guri Amir Mausoleum, the resting place of Timur, the great conqueror, and the beautiful Registan Square, where madrasas showcase some of the finest Islamic architecture in the world. The afternoon is yours to explore this amazing city at your own pace. In Samarkand, your options for cultural exploration are endless. Maybe head to the peaceful Konigil Village to visit the Meros Paper Mill, where artisans use traditional, centuries-old silk paper making techniques. Or take a trip out to the Mausoleum of St Daniel. Wander the colorful stalls of Siyab Bazaar or this evening, experience a performance at the El Merosi Theatre of Historical Costumes, where centuries of Uzbek dress and dance come to life.
Free Time
Enjoy a free afternoon in historic Samarkand.
Guri Amir Mausoleum Visit
Persian for “Tomb of the King”, the Guri Amir mausoleum was started in the 14th century. Explore the foundations, portal, and minaret that remain intact and walk amongst the tombs of Tamerlane, the Asian conqueror, and his descendants.
Registan Visit
Explore the mosaic-covered medressas and open spaces of the spectacular Registan, once the heart of Uzbek learning. The city blossomed under Amir Timur, a tyrannical 14th century ruler. A lover of art, Timur was responsible for the colourful domes and exquisite minarets that now form the city's evocative skyline. The spectacular Registan, one of the city's most impressive works of art, is an impressive collection of buildings and probably the most recognizable of all of Central Asia's monuments.
Optional Activities - Day 16Show
Accommodation
Kosh Havuz Boutique Hotel
Climb aboard the high-speed train as we travel to the UNESCO World Heritage destination, Bukhara. This city is known as one of the most culturally rich and ancient places along the Silk Road and was a battle zone for conquerors like Genghis Khan, the British Empire and Russian Bolshevik troops. Head into the Old Town, where over 2,500 years of history thrive to this day. Start at Ismail Samanid Mausoleum, an Uzbek icon from the 10th century and one of the oldest Islamic monuments in all of Central Asia. The next stop is Ark Fortress, a towering symbol of Bukhara’s political and spiritual power. End the tour at the Kalyan Minaret, a nearly 900-year-old brickmade watchtower. This evening, we head to a local restaurant to learn to make the famous Uzbek dumplings, manti.
Train
Climb aboard, take a seat, and enjoy the ride.
Bukhara Orientation Walk
Explore the neighborhood of Bukhara alongside your group to get a lay of the land.
Your Hands-On Moment: Manti Making
Visit a local restaurant and learn to make Uzbek manti, traditional dumplings. Use puréed vegetables to color the dough. Then enjoy your delicious creations for dinner.
Accommodation
Hotel Shahriston Plaza
Today begins with a visit to the Naqshbandi Mausoleum, a place dedicated to Central Asia’s most revered Sufi scholars and a historic pilgrimage site. Meet with a local expert in Sufism to learn about its spiritual philosophy and lasting influence on the region’s culture and identity. Continue to the opulent Sitorai Mokhi Khosa, once the summer palace of the last Emir of Bukhara, now a striking display of Russian and Persian architecture. The afternoon is free to explore the city on your own. Choose to visit an 18th-century hammam or do some shopping along the ancient trading domes of the old Caravanserai. This evening, gather in the stunning Madrasah Nadir Devon Begi for a traditional dinner and a folklore show that puts Uzbek heritage on full display.
Free Time
The afternoon is free to explore Bukhara.
Nodir Devonbegi Madrasah Monument Dinner
Visit the famous Nodir Devonbegi Madrasah Monument in Bukhara Old Town. Enjoy a local dinner inside the monument paired with a folklore show.
Your Journeys Highlight Moment: Naqshbandi Mausoleum Sufism Experience
Visit the Naqshbandi Mausoleum, one of the most important shrines in Sufism. The birthplace and burial site of Baha-ud-Din Naqshband Bukhari, the founder of the Naqshbandi order - one of the most influential ancient Sufi orders in Central Asia, and often considered Bukhara's 'patron saint.' Meet a local Sufi expert at this historic place for a lecture and discussion about religious pluralism and its influence on Central Asia.
Sitorai Mokhi Khosa
Sitorai Mokhi Khosa is beautiful inside and out. Once the summer palace of the last Emir of Bukhara in the early 1900's, admire the architecture and learn of its unique history.
Optional Activities - Day 18Show
Accommodation
Hotel Shahriston Plaza
Drive through the Kyzylkum desert toward the ancient city of Khiva. See the everchanging sand dunes, once crossed by travellers on the Silk Road carrying goods from the far corners of the world. Gaze upon the distant mountain peaks before arriving at the ancient walled city of Khiva, a living museum, with some of the best-preserved Islamic architecture in the world.
Khiva Orientation Walk
Explore a bit of Khiva alongside your group on an orientation walk.
Private Vehicle
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Accommodation
Hotel Bankir Khiva
Explore Khiva, an ornate and beautiful ancient city that makes you feel like you’ve been transported back in time to the Silk Road over 2,500 years ago. Within the Ichan-Qala, the inner walled town of Khiva, you’ll be immersed in a kaleidoscope of colourful alleyways, tiled mosques, historic madrasas and towering minarets. Khiva is a town so steeped in preservation as Sophie Ibbotson explains in her “6 reasons to visit Khiva, the tourist capital of the Islamic world for 2024” National Geographic article. Together we’ll wander its paths, hearing the stories of traders, scholars and historic explorers and adventurers. This evening, explore Khiva culture at a Khorezmian dinner celebrating the region's historic music and dance.
Free Time
Spend the afternoon at leisure in Khiva.
Khorezmian Music and Dance Show
Listen to and watch the traditions of Khiva come to life at a Khorezmian music and dance show. Unique instruments like the dutar and tanbur will accompany performers during the Khorezm classical and folk show.
Khiva Ancient City Exploration
Khiva feels like a museum city, with well-preserved city walls and ancient monuments. Wander the city on a guided tour, learn about life here and its important place in history.
Optional Activities - Day 20Show
Accommodation
Hotel Bankir Khiva
This morning, cross the border into Turkmenistan, a unique country rich with historic traditions still alive to this day. Our first stop is at the beautiful and haunting ruins of Kunya Urgench. Once a rich and lively center for Islamic scholars, it is now full of crumbling minarets, sacred tombs and mausoleums. After a visit at this UNESCO World Heritage Site, continue to Dashguz to board an evening flight to Ashgabat, Turkmenistan’s capital city.
Private Vehicle
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Border Crossing (Uzbekistan to Turkmenistan)
Cross the border on foot and enter Turkmenistan.
Private Vehicle
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Kunya-Urgench City Visit
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this town was abandoned in the 1700s and has remained untouched ever since. Visit the series of monuments built between the 11th and 16th centuries including a mosque, the gates of a caravanserai, fortresses, mausoleums, and a 60 meter high minaret.
Private Vehicle
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Plane
Look! Up in the sky! It's a bird! It's a plane! It's... yup, it is a plane, actually.
Head out to Old Nisa, the former capital of the Parthian Empire from 200 BCE.. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is an important archaeological location full of ruins and well-preserved artifacts. Take in the remnants of mudbrick royal complexes and fortresses through remains of a civilization that once rivaled Rome. Fast forward from the past to the present as we head to the futuristic Alem Centre, a chance to admire its incredible architecture. This evening, gather for a farewell dinner in the city and reminisce about the incredible journey we’ve had through the Stans.
Ashgabat City Tour
Start the day exploring the Monument of Independence followed by the National Museum of History and Ethnography. Next, visit the Arch of Neutrality and end the tour at the Gulistan market.
Ancient Settlement of Nisa
Pay a visit to the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Nisa. This ancient settlement was once the capital of the Parthian Empire from the 3rd century BCE to the 3rd century CE. Explore the ruins and learn about the history of this amazing place.
Optional Activities - Day 22Show
Depart at any time.
Departure Transfer
You will be met at your hotel and transferred to the airport at the end of your adventure.
