The Three Stans of The Silk Road

11:00 — Welcome at the airport and transfer to the hotel

11:30 — Start Bishkek city tour
Begin a sightseeing excursion around the capital of Kyrgyzstan by bus and on foot.

12:00 — Visit Oak Park
Enjoy a relaxing walk through one of Bishkek’s oldest and most beautiful green spaces.

12:30 — Visit Manas Sculpture
See the iconic monument dedicated to the legendary Kyrgyz hero Manas.

13:00 — Walk along Alley of the Youth
Explore the lively area near the Philharmonic Hall and discover important city landmarks.

14:00 — Continue sightseeing in Bishkek
Learn about the city’s history, from its origins as a Kokand fortress to its Soviet-era development.

16:00 — Return to hotel
Free time to relax or explore the city independently.

18:30 — Evening tour briefing
Meet your tour leader for important updates and information about the next day’s program.

Overnight in Bishkek.

09:00 — Departure from Bishkek
Begin the journey through the beautiful landscapes of Kyrgyzstan toward Tokmok.

10:30 — Arrival at Burana Tower
Visit the historic 11th-century Burana Tower and explore its museum, one of the most important Silk Road landmarks in the region.

11:30 — Departure from Burana Tower
Continue the scenic drive toward Kochkor village.

13:00 — Arrival at Altyn Kol Cooperative
Visit the female-led artisan cooperative dedicated to preserving traditional Kyrgyz felt-making crafts.

13:30 — Felt-making masterclass
Take part in a hands-on workshop and learn the traditional techniques used to create shyrdaks, the famous Kyrgyz felt carpets.

15:00 — Continue drive to Kochkor
Enjoy views of the countryside and local villages along the route.

16:00 — Arrival in Kochkor
Check in at the guesthouse and enjoy some time to relax.

19:00 — Dinner at a local family-run restaurant
Experience authentic Kyrgyz hospitality and traditional local cuisine.

Overnight in Kochkor.

09:00 — Departure from Kochkor
Drive toward the magnificent Lake Issyk Kul, known as “the lake that never freezes.”

11:30 — Arrival in Kyzyl Tuu
Visit one of Kyrgyzstan’s traditional yurt-making villages and learn about the craftsmanship behind these nomadic dwellings.

12:00 — Yurt construction demonstration
Discover how yurts are built and why they have been used by Central Asian nomads for centuries.

13:00 — Continue along the southern shore of Lake Issyk Kul
Enjoy scenic landscapes and panoramic lake views during the drive.

15:00 — Arrival in Bokonbayevo
Meet a traditional eagle hunter and learn about the ancient art of falconry passed down through generations.

16:00 — Departure to yurt camp
Continue to the lakeside yurt camp on the shores of Lake Issyk Kul.

17:00 — Arrival at yurt camp
Check in and enjoy free time to relax or swim in the lake.

18:00 — Boorsok bread-making session
Take part in a traditional cooking experience and learn how to prepare Kyrgyz Boorsok bread.

19:30 — Dinner at the yurt camp
Enjoy local cuisine in a unique nomadic atmosphere beside the lake.

Overnight in a traditional yurt camp near Lake Issyk Kul.

09:00 — Departure from the yurt camp
Enjoy a scenic drive along the shores of Lake Issyk Kul toward Karakol.

10:30 — Visit a Kyrgyz musical instrument workshop
Meet a local family producing traditional Kyrgyz musical instruments.

11:00 — Traditional music presentation
Learn about the Copo Choor clay flute and the Komus, the famous three-stringed national instrument of Kyrgyzstan.

12:00 — Continue drive to Jety-Oguz Gorge
Travel deeper into the mountain landscapes of eastern Kyrgyzstan.

13:00 — Arrival at Jety-Oguz Gorge
Explore the famous red rock formations known as the “Seven Bulls” and “Broken Heart.”

13:30 — Short walk in the gorge
Enjoy fresh mountain air and panoramic views surrounded by beautiful alpine scenery.

14:30 — Departure for Karakol
Continue the journey toward one of Kyrgyzstan’s most charming towns.

15:30 — Arrival in Karakol
Begin a sightseeing tour of the town’s historical and cultural landmarks.

16:00 — Visit Dungan Mosque
Explore the unique wooden mosque built in 1904 without the use of nails.

16:45 — Visit Russian Orthodox Church
See the historic wooden church dating back to 1869.

17:30 — Visit Przhevalsky Museum
Learn about the Russian explorer Nikolai Przhevalsky and the history of the region.

19:00 — Dinner with a local Uyghur family
Enjoy authentic Uyghur cuisine and experience local hospitality.

Overnight in Karakol.

07:30 — Departure from Karakol
Early morning departure as we say goodbye to our hosts and begin the journey toward Kazakhstan.

09:30 — Arrival at Kegen border crossing
Cross the border from Kyrgyzstan into Kazakhstan and continue into a new time zone (Kazakhstan is 1 hour behind Kyrgyzstan).

10:30 — Border formalities completed
Continue the journey through the eastern edge of the Tien Shan mountains into the Kazakh steppe.

13:30 — Arrival at Kolsai Lakes National Park
Reach one of Kazakhstan’s most beautiful natural reserves, known for its alpine lakes and forested valleys.

14:00 — Visit Kolsai Lake
Short orientation and introduction to the park followed by a visit to one of the Kolsai Lakes.

15:30 — Free time in nature
Relax, enjoy the scenery, or explore the surrounding landscapes at your own pace.

17:00 — Transfer to hotel
Drive to your accommodation near the park.

18:00 — Arrival at hotel
Check-in and free evening in the tranquil mountain environment.

Overnight near Kolsai Lakes National Park.

06:30 — Optional early departure to Kaindy Lake (breakfast box provided)
For guests joining the optional excursion, travel by UAZ vehicles over rugged terrain to Kaindy Lake.

07:30 — Arrival at Kaindy Lake (optional)
Explore the famous sunken forest, where submerged spruce trees rise through turquoise alpine waters.

08:30 — Breakfast at Kaindy Lake (optional)
Enjoy a breakfast box while taking in the unique scenery.

09:30 — Return to hotel (optional group rejoin)
Meet back with the main group at the hotel.

10:30 — Departure from Kolsai region
Continue the journey deeper into Kazakhstan.

12:30 — Arrival at Charyn Canyon
Visit the dramatic “Valley of Castles,” known for its striking rock formations.

13:00 — Canyon hike
Descend into the canyon and walk approximately 2.5 km along mostly flat terrain, surrounded by towering cliffs and natural formations.

15:00 — Free time at Charyn River
Relax by the riverbank and optionally cool off in the water before returning.

15:30 — Return hike from canyon
Ascend back to the canyon rim and rejoin transport.

16:00 — Departure to Almaty
Begin the final drive toward Kazakhstan’s cultural capital.

19:00 — Arrival in Almaty
Check in at the hotel and settle into the city.

20:00 — Evening free time in Almaty
Optional walk through the city to explore street art, boulevards, and local atmosphere.

Overnight in Almaty.

09:00 — Departure from hotel in Almaty
Start the day exploring Kazakhstan’s cultural and financial capital.

09:30 — Visit Park of 28 Guards
Walk through one of Almaty’s most important green spaces, filled with monuments and historic memorials.

10:00 — Visit Ascension Cathedral
Explore the iconic Russian Orthodox-style wooden cathedral, one of the last remaining wooden buildings in the city.

11:30 — Continue walking tour of the park area
See Soviet-era monuments commemorating soldiers from WWII and the Afghan War.

12:30 — Departure to Green Bazaar
Head to one of the city’s most vibrant and traditional markets.

13:00 — Visit Green Market
Experience local life and explore a wide variety of produce, spices, meats, and traditional foods.

13:30 — Food tasting at the market
Try local specialties such as Kazy (smoked horse sausage) and Kurt (dried salted cheese balls).

15:00 — Free time in Almaty
Relax or continue independent exploration of the city’s boulevards and parks.

18:00 — Early dinner at a traditional Kazakh café
Enjoy a final meal in Almaty featuring local Kazakh cuisine.

20:00 — Transfer to train station
Boarding preparations for the overnight journey.

21:00 — Overnight train to Turkestan
Depart Almaty on a 14-hour train journey. Accommodation in four-berth sleeper cabins.

Overnight on board the train.

13:00 — Arrival in Turkestan (by train)
Arrive in one of Kazakhstan’s oldest and most sacred cities, located on the historic Silk Road.

13:30 — Transfer to hotel
Check in and take time to freshen up after the journey.

15:30 — Start guided city tour of Turkestan
Begin exploring the spiritual and historical capital of the Turkic world with a local guide.

16:00 — Visit Azret Sultan Historical Complex
Discover a UNESCO-listed architectural complex showcasing medieval Islamic heritage.

16:30 — Visit Mausoleum of Khoja Ahmed Yasawi
Explore the iconic 14th-century mausoleum built by Tamerlane in honor of the Sufi poet and philosopher.

17:30 — Visit Underground Mosque Khilvet
See the ancient 12th-century underground mosque used for spiritual retreat and worship.

18:15 — Visit historic bathhouse (16th century)
Learn about traditional bathing culture and architecture from the medieval period.

19:00 — Free time in Turkestan
Relax or explore the modern parts of the city at your own pace.

19:30 — Visit Karavan Saray complex (optional evening walk)
Enjoy illuminated architecture, fountains, and cultural shows in a modern entertainment complex.

20:00 — Evening light and fountain show (weather permitting)
Watch a spectacular performance inspired by the epic “Kyz-Zhibek and Tolegen.”

Overnight in Turkestan.

08:00 — Departure from Turkestan
Leave Kazakhstan’s spiritual capital and begin the journey south toward Uzbekistan.

10:30 — Arrival in Shymkent
Stop in Kazakhstan’s third-largest city for a short sightseeing tour.

11:00 — Visit Baidibek Bey Monument
Explore the hilltop monument dedicated to the Kazakh hero, offering panoramic views over Shymkent.

11:45 — Free time in pedestrian area
Enjoy a short walk through the city center and have a quick lunch or coffee break.

13:00 — Departure from Shymkent
Continue driving toward the Kazakhstan–Uzbekistan border.

15:00 — Border crossing (on foot)
Farewell to your Kazakh tour leader and complete border formalities before meeting your Uzbek guide and driver.

16:00 — Drive to Tashkent
Begin the final stretch into Uzbekistan’s vibrant capital city.

17:00 — Arrival in Tashkent
Check in at the hotel and settle into the city.

18:30 — Evening free time in Tashkent
Optional exploration of nearby streets or rest after the journey.

Overnight in Tashkent.

09:00 — Departure from hotel
Start the guided exploration of Uzbekistan’s vibrant capital.

09:30 — Visit Khast Imam Complex
Explore one of Tashkent’s most important spiritual and historical landmarks located in the old city, home to ancient Islamic architecture and manuscripts.

10:30 — Visit Chorsu Bazaar
Walk through the iconic blue-domed market and experience the atmosphere of local trade and daily life.

11:30 — Continue city sightseeing
Drive through key parts of the city while learning about Tashkent’s history from ancient Silk Road hub to modern capital.

12:00 — Visit Independence Square
Explore the city’s main square with fountains, gardens, and important national monuments.

13:00 — Visit Museum of Applied Arts
Discover over 4,000 traditional artifacts housed in a former Tsarist-era residence, showcasing Uzbekistan’s rich craftsmanship.

14:30 — Return to hotel / free time begins
Afternoon at leisure for personal exploration.

15:30 — Optional activities in Tashkent (free time)
Suggested options include:

• Ride the Tashkent Metro with its uniquely decorated stations

• Visit the Centre of Islamic Civilisation

• Walk around Amir Timur Square

• Explore the Broadway pedestrian street with cafés and street life

Overnight in Tashkent.

08:00 — Departure from hotel
Transfer to the railway station for the high-speed train journey.

09:00 — High-speed train to Bukhara
Travel comfortably at speeds over 250 km/h through Uzbekistan’s scenic landscapes.

13:30 — Arrival in Bukhara
Meet your local guide and begin exploring one of the most historic cities on the Silk Road.

14:00 — Walking tour of Bukhara old city
Start discovering UNESCO-listed streets, mosques, and madrasahs.

14:15 — Visit Lyab-i Hauz complex
Explore the historic water reservoir surrounded by beautiful architecture and shaded courtyards.

15:00 — Visit Abdulaziz Khan Madrasah
Admire the stunning blue tilework and intricate Islamic design.

15:30 — Visit Mghoki Attar Mosque
See one of the oldest surviving mosques in Central Asia, dating back to the 9th century.

16:00 — Visit Poi Kalon Complex
Explore one of Bukhara’s most iconic architectural ensembles.

16:15 — Visit Kalyan Minaret and Mosque
View the towering 12th-century minaret, a symbol of the city and one of the few structures surviving Genghis Khan’s invasion.

17:30 — Hotel check-in
Transfer to centrally located hotel and check in.

Evening — Free time in Bukhara
Optional stroll through the old city, bazaars, and illuminated historical streets.

Overnight in Bukhara.

09:00 — Departure from hotel
Continue exploring the historic heart of Bukhara with a full-day guided tour.

09:15 — Visit Ark Fortress
Explore the massive ancient citadel that served as Bukhara’s royal stronghold from the 5th century until 1920. Learn about its long history and visit its small museums.

10:30 — Visit Bolo Khauz Mosque
Admire the beautiful wooden pillars and peaceful reflecting pool of this elegant mosque opposite the Ark.

11:30 — Visit Samanid Mausoleum
Discover one of Central Asia’s oldest Islamic monuments, an architectural masterpiece and burial site of the Samanid dynasty founder.

13:00 — Free time / lunch break in Bukhara
Enjoy lunch and explore the old town atmosphere at your own pace.

14:30 — Drive to Naqshbandi Complex (15 km outside Bukhara)
Visit one of the most important Sufi pilgrimage sites in Uzbekistan.

15:00 — Visit Mausoleum of Baha-ud-Din Naqshband
Learn about the influential Naqshbandi Sufi order and its spiritual legacy in the region.

16:30 — Visit Sitorai Mokhi Hossa Palace
Explore the summer residence of the last Emir of Bukhara, blending Persian, Russian, and local architectural styles.

18:00 — Return to Bukhara
Drive back to the city after a full day of cultural exploration.

19:00 — Final evening in Bukhara
Free time to enjoy the illuminated old city, bazaars, or relax at the hotel.

Overnight in Bukhara.

08:30 — Departure from Bukhara
Begin a cultural excursion into the rural areas surrounding Bukhara.

10:00 — Arrival in Gijduvan
Visit a renowned pottery workshop famous for preserving centuries-old ceramic traditions.

10:15 — Pottery workshop experience
Observe master artisans at work and learn about traditional Uzbek ceramic techniques passed down through generations.

11:30 — Departure from Gijduvan
Continue toward nearby rural villages.

12:30 — Arrival in Vobkent village
Meet a local family and experience authentic village life in Uzbekistan.

12:45 — Village walk and cotton fields visit
Walk through the village, meet residents, and observe seasonal agricultural life in the cotton fields.

13:30 — Traditional lunch with a local family
Share a home-cooked meal and experience Uzbek hospitality in a rural setting.

15:00 — Return to Bukhara
Drive back to the city after the village experience.

16:30 — High-speed train from Bukhara to Samarkand (Afrosiyob)
Depart on the fast train to one of Central Asia’s most legendary cities.

18:30 — Arrival in Samarkand
Meet your guide and transfer to the hotel.

19:00 — Hotel check-in
Settle into your accommodation in Samarkand.

Evening — Free time in Samarkand
Optional relaxation or short walk in the city.

Overnight in Samarkand.

09:00 — Departure from hotel
Begin a full-day guided exploration of Samarkand, one of the most legendary cities of the Silk Road.

09:15 — Visit Registan Square
Explore Samarkand’s iconic centerpiece, framed by three monumental madrasahs decorated with stunning turquoise mosaics. Learn about its historical role as a public and cultural hub for over six centuries.

10:30 — Visit Gur-e-Amir Mausoleum
Discover the magnificent tomb of Tamerlane, featuring a richly decorated interior and gold-domed ceilings.

12:00 — Continue city sightseeing
Drive through the historic city while learning about Samarkand’s transformation under Tamerlane and its Silk Road legacy.

13:00 — Lunch break
Enjoy free time for lunch at a local restaurant.

14:30 — Visit Shah-i-Zinda Necropolis
Walk through one of the most beautiful sacred complexes in Central Asia, featuring intricate tilework and centuries of royal and religious tombs.

15:30 — Visit Ulug Beg Observatory
Explore the remains of one of the greatest medieval astronomical centers in the Islamic world, where groundbreaking calculations of the stars were made.

16:30 — Visit Bibi-Khanym Mosque
See the grand mosque built by Tamerlane, once one of the largest in Central Asia.

17:30 — Return to city center
Free time for last-minute exploration and relaxation.

18:00 — Souvenir shopping opportunity
Browse local bazaars for handmade crafts, ceramics, textiles, and traditional gifts.

Overnight in Samarkand.

08:00 — Breakfast at hotel
Enjoy your final breakfast in Samarkand.

09:00 — Check-out from hotel
End of the tour services.

All day — Free time until departure

End of tour.