Premium Central Asia

Duration

18 days

Tour Type

Small Group

Accommodations

Unknown

Physical Rating

Average

Guide Language

English

Experience Overview

Journey back to the days of the Great Silk Road on a 18-day Premium adventure through Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan.

Highlights

Understand local life through food by joining local families for a cooking class in Samarkand and Khiva. Feast on delicious local cuisine with visits to a family-owned winery in Almaty, a family home of local Dungan people for dinner and a traditional lunch in a remote Kyzyl Tuu Village.
Uncover Tashkent’s Soviet legacy and the magic of Uzbekistan's ‘holiest city’ in Bukhara. Listen to your leader tell ancient tales of Khiva and be guided through the architecture of Samarkand. Then, soak up some of the history and architecture of two former Silk Route cities – Almaty and Bishkek.
Head off the tourist track and see some incredible natural landscapes – on this trip, you’ll visit Sharyn Canyon (nicknamed the little brother of the Grand Canyon), Jety Oguz, Skazka Canyon and Lake Issyk Kul.
Spend a memorable night in a comfortable yurt camp for an authentic local experience. You’ll have dinner around the campfire with the locals and wake up in the morning beside Lake Issyk Kul – the second largest alpine lake in the world!
Stay within the walls of Uzbekistan’s history during a historical Feature Stay in an old Jewish house converted into a boutique hotel in Bukhara.

Trip Details

Duration

18 days

Transportation

Private vehicle,Plane,Train

Tour Type

Small Group

Guide Language

English

Starts

Tashkent, Kazakhstan

Finishes

Almaty, Kazakhstan

Accommodations

Unknown

Travel Style

Explorer

Physical Rating

Average

Itinerary

Day 1: Tashkent

Xush kelibsiz! Welcome to Uzbekistan. Your adventure begins in the largest city in Central Asia, Tashkent. The mix of Russian and Uzbek style is an indication that for many years, it was a key city of the USSR. Extravagant mosques, both ancient and new, sit alongside modern highways and Soviet monuments. When you arrive at the airport, you’ll be met by a local representative and be transferred to your hotel. You’ll have a welcome meeting at 6 pm tonight to meet your local leader and fellow travellers. If you arrive early, maybe take a walk to see some of the contemporary architecture that sets this city apart from many other Silk Road destinations. After your meeting, join your group for a welcome dinner at an excellent local restaurant serving traditional Uzbek food such as laghman noodles, norin noodles and fried dumplings.

Included Activities:

Tashkent - welcome dinner

Optional Activities:

Tashkent - Art Gallery of Uzbekistan (50000 UZS)
Tashkent - Museum of Applied Arts (60000 UZS)

Accommodation:

Hotel Inspira-S or similar (1 night) (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 2: Tashkent

Explore Tashkent on a city tour with your leader. First, make your way to the Khast Imom Complex, which includes the Barak Khan medressa (a college for Islamic instruction), the Kaffal Shashi mausoleum, the Quran Library and the Mosque, which holds one of the oldest and holiest Korans in the world. Then, leave behind the spiritual world and venture into the Chorsu Bazzar – one of the largest and oldest markets in Central Asia. Wandering through this giant marketplace is a fantastic way to see locals going about their daily lives. Uzbeks are some of the friendliest people in the world and with your leader on hand to bridge any language gaps, you’ll soon find yourself chatting to many locals. Your leader will show you some of Tashkent’s beautiful metro stations, then you’ll finish the tour at Amir Temur Square. With your free afternoon, you may like to visit the striking Kukeldash medressa.

Included Activities:

Tashkent - Chorsu Bazaar
Tashkent - Amir Timur Square
Tashkent - Khast Imom Complex & Moyie Mubarek Library Museum
Tashkent - City tour
Tashkent - Metro tour

Accommodation:

Hotel Inspira-S or similar (1 night) (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 3: Samarkand

Early this morning, take a high-speed Afrosiab train to the ancient Silk Road hub of Samarkand. The city has long been a centre of artisans and traders as well as the prize for many a conquering army, leaving behind a rich and complex history. When you arrive, stop by the gorgeous remains of the Ulugbek Observatory – built by a Muslim prince, your leader will explain how this unpopular ruler had a controversial passion for astronomy. After, explore the Afrosiab Museum – home to a treasured 7th-century fresco of the Sogdian King Varkhouman. Then, head to the workshop of a local artisan in Konigil to discover one of the few people in Central Asia who continues to produce paper using a 1000-year-old method. This village is home to the Meros paper mill, founded by well-known masters, the Mukhtarov brothers. Thanks to their efforts, the local factory revived an ancient tradition based on old Samarkand technologies. You'll also see a ceramics workshop, then you can enjoy a free evening to explore Samarkand at your own pace.

Included Activities:

Samarkand - Bibi-Khanym Mosque
Samarkand - Handmade paper workshop
Samarkand - Afrosiab Museum
Samarkand - Plov cooking demonstration & family visit
Samarkand - Ulugbek's Observatory

Accommodation:

Hotel Royal Samarkand or similar (1 night) (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 4: Samarkand

Today you’ll dig deeper into Samarkand’s fascinating cultural heritage with your leader. First, visit the holy Shah-i-Zinda complex – the so-called ‘Town of the Dead’ necropolis, with more than 20 beautifully decorated unique buildings. Then, head to the Gur Amir Mausoleum. Your leader will tell you all about the mighty ruler Timur, as this is his final resting place. Stand on the iconic Registan Square with three mosaic-adorned madrassas towering over you, then explore the Siob Bazaar, full of bustling stalls and friendly local traders. This afternoon, head out of the city to the Bagizagan winery, considered the best wine producer in Uzbekistan. Get a special insight into the production of Uzbek wine and try a few drops for yourself. In the evening, you’ll have the intimate Uzbek experience of joining a local family for a cooking demonstration on the traditional meal ‘plov’. Uzbek men pride themselves on their ability to prepare the most unique and delicious plov (a tasty rice dish cooked over an open flame in a traditional cauldron) and you’ll sit down to share some over dinner.

Included Activities:

Samarkand - Uzbek Bagizagan winery visit and tasting
Samarkand - City tour
Samarkand - Gur-e-Amir Mausoleum
Samarkand - Shakh-I-Zinda
Samarkand - Registan Square
Samarkand - Siob Bazaar

Accommodation:

Hotel Royal Samarkand or similar (1 night) (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 5: Bukhara

This morning, you’ll make your way to the holy and historic city of Bukhara on a high-speed train. A UNESCO World Heritage-listed site, Bukhara is widely regarded as Central Asia’s holiest city and is home to monuments dating from the 8th to the 18th century AD. When you arrive, you’ll take a tour of some of the sites with your leader. Head out to see some of the monuments – the meticulous restoration of many of the mosaic and majolica decorations gives you a true sense of how these buildings looked in their original glory. Visit the Ismail Samani Mausoleum, the Chashma Ayub Mausoleum and the Bolo-Khauz Mosque. After, head to your Feature Stay in a converted Jewish House. Historic and authentic, these houses are interestingly decorated and there’s much to explore here. This evening, head out to dinner at a local restaurant, then you’ll enjoy an Uzbek folklore and music performance at one of the city’s madrasses.

Included Activities:

Bukhara - Folklore & music performance
Bukhara - Bolo Hauz Complex
Bukhara - Chashma Ayub Mausoleum
Bukhara - Ismail Samani Mausoleum

Accommodation:

Converted Jewish House (feature stay) or similar (1 night) (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 6: Bukhara

This morning, you’ll continue to explore Bukhara with your leader. After breakfast, visit the ruins of the 5th-century Ark Fortress and the imposing Poikalon complex. Taki Zargaron and the trading domes near here still offer a colourful array of goods including embroideries, jewellery, spices, handicrafts and all manner of Silk Road treasures. This is the place to test your haggling skills and share a joke or two with local craftsman and merchants. Visit the central Lyabi-Hauz complex and its surrounding areas, which you may want to revisit during twilight hours. Then, you have the rest of the afternoon and evening free to explore at your own pace – your leader will always be on hand with great recommendations.

Included Activities:

Bukhara - Ark Fortress
Bukhara - Bolo Hauz Mosque
Bukhara - Chor Minor
Bukhara - Kalon Minaret & Mosque
Bukhara - Taki Zargaron Trading Dome
Bukhara - Lyabi Khauz Complex
Bukhara - City tour

Accommodation:

Converted Jewish House (feature stay) or similar (1 night) (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 7: Khiva

After a leisurely morning in Bukhara, visit Sitorai Mohi Hosa – the summer Palace of Alim Khan, Uzbekistan’s last emir. Your leader will share stories of the emir’s extravagant lifestyle as you explore the luxuriously decorated compound. Then, say your goodbyes and drive to Khiva. You’ll travel through the Kyzyl-Kum (Red Sands Desert) – the largest desert area in Central Asia that has long been inhabited by various nomadic people. Along the way, you’ll stop for photos, lunch and a walk in the desert to learn about the unique flora and fauna of the region. Stop at a few viewpoints along the way, then arrive in Khiva in the evening, where you’re free to rest and recharge after a long travel day.

Included Activities:

Bukhara - Sitorai Mohi Hosa Palace

Accommodation:

Arkanchi Hotel or similar (1 night) (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 8: Khiva

Take a full day to explore Khiva with your leader. This city is well preserved and perfect for exploring on foot, with impressive walls that mark the boundaries of the Old City. Your leader will guide you through the ancient monuments, including the turquoise Kalta Minor Minaret, the Khan museum, the 17th-century Juma Mosque and the Islom-Hoja Minaret and Medressa. Visit the Kuhna Ark, which was the main fortress, and look over the city from the hill of the Ak-Sheikh Baba observation platform. Finish with the tranquil 19th-century Tosh-Hovli Palace. Later, head to one of the city’s roof terraces for a glass of champagne as you watch the sunset. Tonight, join a cooking class and learn the secrets of Khorezmian cuisine. Make traditional dishes like shivit oshi (green noodles) and tuhum-barak (egg dumplings) then tuck into your creations for dinner.

Included Activities:

Khiva - Islom Hoja Minaret & Medressa
Khiva - Juma Mosque
Khiva - Tosh-Hovli Palace
Khiva - Kunya Ark
Khiva - Kalta Minor Minaret
Khiva - Sunset drinks
Khiva - Muhammad Rahim-khan Medressa
Khiva - Muhammad Amin-khan Medressa
Khiva - Khorezmian cuisine cooking class

Accommodation:

Arkanchi Hotel or similar (1 night) (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 9: Tashkent

Transfer to the airport in the morning for a flight to Tashkent. Admire the facade of the Navoi Theatre, named for one of the nom de plume’s of Ali-Shir Nava’I – a 16th-century writer and mystic. The multi-arched building was partially constructed by Japanese prisoners of war. Next, take a walk down the buzzing Broadway Alley, where there’s always something happening. Take some time to wander the street lined by shady trees and works from local artists. Tonight, join your fellow travellers for a final dinner and say farewell to this spectacular Silk Road country.

Accommodation:

Hotel Inspira-S or similar (1 night) (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 10: Almaty

Say goodbye to Uzbekistan today and catch an unescorted flight to Almaty, Kazakhstan's former capital which features wide, tree-lined streets, numerous parks and views of snow-capped mountains. If you arrive early, you may want to visit the State Museum of Arts, the State History Museum or the Kasteev House Museum – the most famous Kazakh artist from Soviet times. This evening there will be a second group meeting to meet your new local leader and fellow travellers after which you’ll have dinner with your group at a traditional Kazakh restaurant.

Included Activities:

Almaty - Welcome Dinner

Accommodation:

Renion Park Hotel or similar (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 11: Almaty

Today, you’ll head out with a local guide for a city tour of downtown Almaty. Visit Central Square and the colourful Zenkoff Cathedral (also the second tallest wooden building in the world) in historic 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. This afternoon, head to a local, family-owned and ran winery just outside the city for a delicious lunch and wine tasting. Meet the owners and learn more about wine production in Kazakhstan. Return to Almaty in the late afternoon, where your evening is free to explore at your own pace.

Included Activities:

Almaty - City tour with local guide
Almaty - Winery Visit, Tasting and dinner

Accommodation:

Renion Park Hotel or similar (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 12: Bishkek

After breakfast this morning, you’ll leave Kazakhstan for Kyrgyzstan. Along the way, stop at the UNESCO World Heritage site of Tamgaly Tas, which features some amazing Bronze Age petroglyphs. Enjoy a picnic lunch here, then carry on to Bishkek – the capital of Kyrgyzstan that borders Central Asia's Tian Shan range. Arriving in the late afternoon, you’ll head straight out for an orientation walk with your leader to get your bearings, then you can enjoy a free evening.

Included Activities:

Bishkek Orientation Walk
Bishkek - Tamgaly Tas - petroglyphs

Accommodation:

Park Hotel or similar (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 13: Bishkek

Embark on a half-day city tour of downtown Bishkek today. Meet with a local Bishkek guide and head out to see Ala-Too Square and the statue of Manas – the hero of heroes for the local Kyrgyz people. See the Russian Orthodox church, one of the only few Lenin statues left in all the ex-USSR countries, Oak Park (the oldest park in the country), the Opera house and Victory Square, with its eternal flame dedicated to WW2. After some free time to rest and recharge, head out to meet a local designer, craftsman and design historian to learn about Central Asian textile design and manufacturing. Tonight, join your group for dinner in Bishkek.

Included Activities:

Bishkek - City walking tour
Bishkek - Central Asian Textile Visit

Accommodation:

Park Hotel or similar (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 14: Issyk Kul

After a relaxed breakfast today, you’ll start the drive to Lake Issyk Kul – one of the largest lakes in the world, 178 km long and 60 km wide. Along the way, stop at Burana Tower – a large minaret in the Chuy Valley – and visit the monument and museum. You’ll then be welcomed into the home of a local farming family nearby for a homemade lunch. Chat with the locals, then continue to Kyzyk Tuu village. When you arrive, meet with a local craftsman who keeps the ancient tradition of yurt making alive. Head to a workshop where the craftsman will show you how they’re made with no electrical tools and gain an insight into how these iconic structures are built, including the process of making Kiiz (the felt layers that cover the yurt). Maybe even have a go at assembling your own! Tonight, you’ll test your nomadic skills with a night in a traditional yurt camp – these yurts were made by the craftsmen in the local village, so you know you’re getting the authentic experience. After a walk with your group to admire the landscape, gather around the campfire for dinner under the stars.

Included Activities:

Issky Kul - Kyzyl Tuu - Yurt Making Workshop
Bishkek - Burana Tower

Accommodation:

Barbulak Yurt Camp (Feature Stay) or similar (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 15: Karakol

Depart the yurt camp after breakfast this morning and head to Karakol – the furthest eastern outpost of former Tsarist Russia and, later, of the USSR. On the way, visit Skazka Canyon (which translates to Fairytale Canyon) to soak in the rugged stone peaks that contrast the meadows and alpine lakes that make so much of Kyrgyzstan’s landscape. After lunch, continue to Jety Oguz Valley – its name means 'seven bulls,' which refers to the seven red-brown cliffs here. Walk through the gorgeous valley and carry on to Karakol – this town was founded as a Russian military outpost and still has a few ‘Gingerbread houses’ along its scenic streets.

Included Activities:

Karakol - Skazka Canyon Visit
Karakol - Jety Oguz Visit

Accommodation:

Green Yard Hotel or similar (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 16: Karakol

Today you’ll embark on a tour of the city with your local leader. First, visit the Prezhevalsky Museum and learn about a Russian explorer who made discoveries in China and Mongolia. hen, walk along the scenic streets of Karakol to see the ‘Gingerbread Cottage’ houses. Visit a lively local market to browse for souvenirs, then see the Dungan Mosque and the Holy Trinity Cathedral. Your afternoon is free to explore at your own pace. Tonight, you’ll be welcomed into the family home of a Dungan local for a masterclass on local cuisine – the Dungan or Hui people are a local ethnic group of Chinese Muslims who escaped China after the defeat of the Hui revolt in 1877. Today, they have a large community all over Central Asia, especially in Karakol. Enjoy dinner with your hosts, then head back to your accommodation for a relaxing evening.

Included Activities:

Karakol - City Tour
Karakol - Dungan Family Visit and Cooking Masterclass

Accommodation:

Green Yard Hotel or similar (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 17: Almaty

Today is a long travel day, including a border crossing back into Kazakhstan. Wake up early this morning and grab a window seat if you can – the scenery is entertainment in itself! You’ll make a few stops along the way for photos and to stretch your legs, including at Sharyn Canyon – often referred as the little brother of the Grand Canyon in the Unites States, wind and water have shaped this spectacular canyon with different shapes and colours. Go on a short hike to the bottom of the canyon, seeing some incredible viewpoints along the way. After, continue to Almaty. When you arrive, freshen up at the hotel then head out for a traditional dinner with your group to toast to an amazing adventure.

Included Activities:

Almaty - Charyn Canyon Hike

Accommodation:

Renion Park Hotel or similar (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 18: Almaty

With no further activities planned, your trip comes to an end after breakfast this morning. If you want to continue your trip in Central Asia and discover more along the Silk Routes, then why not check out our Premium Uzbekistan trip. If you need to organise additional accommodation, just get in touch with your booking agent ahead of time.

Exclusions

Flights to and from origin and destinations
Airport transfers (arrival and departure)
Anything else not explicitly listed in tour inclusions
Recommended gratuities/tipping
Optional activities/tours
Personal expenses
Travel insurance
Visas, meals and beverages not stated in the list of inclusions.

Important Information

Meals

When meals are not included, your tour leader (where available) will be happy to help with restaurant recommendations, bookings, and directions. Please let us know if you have any dietary needs or preferences. We willdo our best to accommodate these, though we cannot guarantee that every request can be met.

Luggage

You are responsible for your personal belongings throughout the tour. You will need to carry your own bags between the vehicle and your hotel room. Drivers will assist with loading and unloading luggage from the vehicle.

Mobility

Travellers requiring wheelchair access should contact our sales and service team, who can make enquiries on your behalf.

Fitness Level

This tour requires an Average level of fitness. Activities are paced gently and include leisure time. You may be expected to join guided walks of up to one hour, navigate short stairways and mild inclines, and manage your own luggage. You should also be able to board and exit all transport without assistance.

Travellers are expected to be self-sufficient and capable of handling all aspects of their journey. Please discuss your circumstances and support needs with your booking agent to confirm this trip is suitable.

If you are unsure, we recommend consulting your doctor before booking or travelling. (Note: I assume each tour has a different description depending on level of fitness required).

Sightseeing

If a planned site visit is unavailable due to changes in operating hours or holiday closures, the itinerary may be altered, or a comparable activity will be substituted where possible and subject to availability.

Visas

Visa conditions can change. Once you receive your travel documents, check with the relevant embassy, consulate, or immigration office of your destination for the latest information.

It is your responsibility to ensure you have the correct and valid travel documents and to comply with all entry requirements.
Non-Australian citizens must also confirm visa and identification requirements with the appropriate consulate or visa agency.
Certain occupations (for example, journalists, government officials, or those working in charities) may face additional restrictions when applying for visas, which could affect the type of application required.

Departure Dates & Surcharges: See checkout for live dates and availability.

AUD $8,995

(Tour only)

Per Person Twin Share

Duration: 18 days

Trip Type: Small Group

Activity Level: Average

Journey back to the days of the Great Silk Road on a 18-day Premium adventure through Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan.

Check Availability Brochure

Price based on per person in Double Room for departure 14 May 2026

View Map

Tour Operator

Intrepid Travel is a global adventure travel company, dedicated to providing sustainable, experience-rich travel opportunities. They’ve been the leader in ethical, small-group travel since 1989 - taking people around the world for more than 30 years. They’re the world’s largest travel B Corporation - dedicated to being the best travel company for the world. In 2002, they established The Intrepid Foundation so their travellers could make a lasting impact on the communities they had visited. Although Intrepid Travel absorbs all administrative costs of The Intrepid Foundation, they are separate legal entities, allowing The Intrepid Foundation to grow independently. Intrepid Travel is made up of a collection of tour operator brands and 28 destination management companies all united by one vision: To change the way we all see the world.

In Business Since 1989

Book Now