OPTIONAL PRE-TOUR: Darvaza Gas Crater (TURKMENISTAN)

Day 01 (THU): Arrive Ashgabat (TURKMENISTAN)

Welcome to Turkmenistan! We are received at Ashgabat Airport and transferred to our hotel. Check-in time is 2:00 PM or later. Balance of the day is free to recover from jet lag or start exploring the city. Dinner is enjoyed at our hotel.

Overnight: Divan (ex Nusay) Hotel, Ashgabat (1 night) (D)

Day 02 (FRI): Ashgabat (Darvaza Extension)

Today, we embark on a road journey to witness one of the world’s most extraordinary geological sites—the Darvaza Gas Crater, rightfully nicknamed the “Gates of Hell” or “Door to Hell.” While the exact origin of this 70-meter (230-foot) wide flaming pit is unconfirmed, local legend claims that in 1971, a Soviet drilling rig accidentally punctured a massive natural gas cavern, triggering a gas leak. To contain it, the crew set the crater alight, expecting the fire to burn out in a few weeks. Over 50 years later, the blaze continues, creating a truly surreal spectacle. To fully experience its atmosphere, we overnight in traditional yurts near the crater, with ample time to view it both in daylight and at night—when the fiery glow is at its most dramatic.

Overnight: Yurt, Darvaza (1 night) (D)

Day 03 (SAT): Darvaza/Ashgabat and join Route of the Caravans tour

After breakfast, we tour the town to see how time has truly stood still. Darvaza, meaning “gate” in Turkmen, has historically served as a key waypoint for nomadic tribes crossing the vast Karakum Desert. We then drive back to Ashgabat and join the main tour – beginning Day 1 of our Route of the Caravans journey. (B, D)

MAIN TOUR

Day 01 (SAT): Arrive Ashgabat (TURKMENISTAN)

Welcome to Turkmenistan! We are met at Ashgabat Airport and transferred to our hotel, where check-in is from 2:00 PM onwards. Balance of the day is free to rest, or start exploring Turkmenistan. Our hotel is centrally located, for those who want to explore on their own.

Ashgabat is known for its lavish monuments. It even won the Guinness World Record for the largest number of white marble-clad buildings in the world—500 plus buildings covering 4.5 million square meters! It also has the largest number of fountains in a public space. Ashgabat Fountain, which sits on the road from the airport to the city, boasts 27 synchronised fountains!

Overnight: Divan (ex Nusay) Hotel, Ashgabat (3 nights) (D)

Day 02 (SUN): Excursion to Merv (Flight)

Take a morning flight to explore the ancient city Merv* (also known as Mary). As the oldest and best preserved oasis on the Silk Road, Merv’s history spans more than 4,000 years. During the Medieval Islamic period, Merv was thought to have been one of the biggest and richest cities in the world. However, in the 13th century, the city was dealt its death blow by the armies of Genghis Khan in a grisly conquest that is said to have caused more than 700,000 casualties. We will wander the ancient streets, seeing the ruins of majestic mausoleums, fortresses and temples, with some still standing even today! We will also visit the mausoleum of Sultan Sanjar, which stands prominent and intact. (B, D)

Day 03 (MON): Ashgabat

After breakfast, we visit the famous Tolkuchka Bazaar—one of the largest and most traditional markets in Central Asia—where everything from toys to camels can be found. Commonly known as the Sunday Bazaar, it offers a glimpse into local life and commerce. We then explore the UNESCO-listed Parthian Fortresses of Nisa*, once a major city of the powerful Parthian Empire, which at its height rivaled Rome and stretched from Turkey to Afghanistan. At the unique Carpet Museum, we admire a stunning collection of tribal carpets spanning from medieval times to the present. Our next stop is the National Museum of Turkmenistan, which houses archaeological treasures from across the country. We also take in some of Ashgabat’s most striking modern monuments and statues scattered throughout the city. (B, D)

Day 04 (TUE): Ashgabat/Dashoguz (Flight)/Kunya Urgench/Khiva (Drive) (UZBEKISTAN)

A short flight brings us to Dashoguz in northern Turkmenistan. We drive through the town, taking in the views of local life, before heading to a highlight of Turkmenistan, Kunya Urgench*. For centuries, this city was one of the most important serai on the Silk Road. Today, we can still see many mausoleums, as well as a 60-meter high minaret and a mosque dating from the 11th to 16th centuries, showcasing this region’s legendary past as the centre of the Islamic world. The architecture and décor of these buildings influenced empires as far away as the Byzantine and Persia, leading to the creations of India’s Mughal Empire. After our explorations, we drive to the Turkmenistan-Uzbekistan border point at Khojeli for border formalities, offering a unique local experience and an insider’s look at the aftermath of the breakup of the Soviet Union. A short drive passing river scenery and villages gets us to the legendry oasis of Khiva. We enjoy a 2-night stay in this historic town, famous home of the majestic Ichan-Kala the most popular UNESCO World Heritage Site in Central Asia.

Overnight: Hotel Malika Khevaek/Hotel Shakherezada, Khiva (2 nights) (B, D)

Day 05 (WED): Khiva

An exciting day ahead, starting with a walking tour of Khiva as we go back in time at Ichan-Kala*, the largest remaining preserved walled city in Central Asia. The fabled inner town of old Khiva is home to more than 50 monuments and 250 traditional dwellings. Our exploration starts with visits to Kalta Minor, a stunning half-built minaret that has become a symbol of the city, and Kunya Arg, an imposing fortress dating to the 17th century. From here, we have a grand view of the city’s monuments and Rakhimkhon madrassah. We continue to explore some of Khiva’s most fascinating sites, including the Hunarmand workshops, the mausoleum of Pakhalavan Makhmud with its unique tilework, the imposing Islam Khodja minaret, Khiva Museum, Friday mosque with its collection of 212 wooden columns, and Tashauli, the harem quarters of the last Khan of Khiva.  We also experience the newly renovated Nurullah Bey’s Palace, which was the residence of the last Khan of Khiva from 1910 to 1920. This unique palace blends traditional architecture with modern Russian and European influence. Following our tour, we have some free time to explore this legendary city. Before we end the day, we will have the unique opportunity to interact with the locals on an intimate visit with a Khivan family. (B, D)

Day 06 (THU): Khiva/Bukhara (Drive)

Savour a scenic drive through Kyzylkum desert. En route, we stop at villages to meet local folks and taste their famous, uniquely decorated Uzbek bread. Later, arrive at the historic Silk Road city of Bukhara, which dates back more than 2,000 years and boasts a lavish collection of more than 140 historical monuments. Bukhara is the most complete example of a medieval city in Central Asia, with an urban fabric that has remained largely intact. The ancient Persian city served as a major center of Islamic culture for many centuries. We check in to our hotel with the rest of the day free. Evening, enjoy an optional folk show at the Madrassah Gowkushan.

Overnight: Omar Khayyam Hotel/Hotel Minora-i-Kalon, Bukhara (2 nights) (B, D)

Day 07 (FRI): Bukhara

Dive into the Historic Centre of Bukhara*, which offers winding streets and ancient structures reminiscent of Arabian Nights. On our full-day sightseeing tour, we will see the highlights and hidden gems of this one-of-a-kind city. As we walk through the old town, we visit Poi Kalon minaret and mosque, as well as Aziz Khan and Ulugbek madrassahs. Later, make our way to Tim Abdullah and Tilpak Frushan covered markets, Mohgaki Attari mosque, Lyabikhauz (the city pond), madrassah Nadirkhon Devanbegi and Chor minor.  Afternoon, continue to explore some of the city’s most outstanding monuments, including Arg Fortress, Zindan (the prison), Balakhauz mosque, Ismail Samanid mausoleum and Job’s Spring where legend has it that Prophet Job, by striking the ground, created a spring.

Evening, take part in an unforgettable dinner feast. We walk through the narrow lanes of the old Jewish quarter. Bukharan Jews are considered to be one of the oldest ethno-religious groups of Central Asia and over the centuries, developed their own distinct culture. We also visit the house of miniature master Davlat Toshev, a Sufi painter known for his excellent miniatures who has exhibited his work in many parts of Europe. (B, D)

Day 08 (SAT): Bukhara/Shakhrisyabz/Samarkand (Drive)

From one UNESCO World Heritage city to another as we journey to the stunning Shakhrisyabz*, birthplace of Tamerlane. Our visit includes Tamerlane’s famous Ak-Saray Palace and the imposing ‘pishtak’, which supported a huge arched gateway. This incredible palace took more than a quarter century to construct. It is recorded that, in 1404, the Spanish ambassador Ruy Gozalez Clavijo was stunned by its intricate decorations. Successive internal wars after the death of Tamerlane created the ruined palace we see today. Shakhrisyabz is known for its embroidery and textiles, and we will have the opportunity to meet and interact with locals before we drive to the one and only Samarkand. This city has been the peak of every Silk Road odyssey since the time of Alexander the Great. Its dazzling monuments still afford travellers a glimpse back to an era of legends and poetry. En route, we stop at the famous Urgut Kishmish Bazaar—where trade buzzes and sacks of goods are sold by the kilogram in a lively, colorful scene. This evening, we have the option to visit Samarkand’s legendary Registan Square for a captivating Sound & Light Show (seasonal availability).

Overnight: Grand Samarkand Hotel/Hotel Gur Emir Palace, Samarkand (2 nights) (B, D)

Day 09 (SUN): Samarkand

A full day dedicated to exploring the historic town of Samarkand*, a highlight of any journey on the Silk Road. A crossroad at the heart of Central Asia since 7th century B.C., when it was known as ancient Afrasiab, Samarkand offers a rich history reflected in its magical monuments and winding streets. We start our discovery with Registan Square, known as one of the noblest public squares in the world. Later, we visit Bibi Khanum’s mosque and Siyob Bazaar, a fascinating market sitting under the shadow of the mosque. Next, experience Shahi Zinda royal necropolis, first constructed more than 1,000 years ago, with mosques and mausoleums continually added from the 11th to 19th centuries. The result is a fascinating cross-reference of diverse and historic architecture. We also visit the local market.

Afternoon, we visit the Afrosiab Museum, where intricate wall murals provide us with a vivid picture of what houses used to look like.  Experience Ulugbek’s Observatory, built by Tamerlane’s grandson, a king who is one of the most renowned astronomers in history.  Built in the 1400s, it was later destroyed, with its ruins only being rediscovered 100 years ago. We also visit Kunhil traditional paper mill, where paper is made from mulberry bark. Our final stop at Gur Emir will show us the glorious mausoleum of Tamerlane and his grandson Ulugbek, as well as some of his courtiers. (B, D)

Day 10 (MON): Samarkand/Penjikent (Drive) (TAJIKISTAN)

Driving through orchards and cotton fields, we journey over the border into Tajikistan. Following border formalities, proceed to Penjikent. After some rest time at our hotel, we tour the highlights of the city. Our first stop is Rudaki Museum, named after the beloved 1st century poet. The museum is home to a collection of artifacts and murals from around the Zarafshan valley. Visit the Penjikent bazaar, followed by a unique local of experience of having a meal with a Tajik family in their home. Afterward, visit a farm area to see rural life and interact with more locals before returning to our hotel.

Overnight: Hotel Umariyon, Penjikent (1 night) (B, L, D)

Day 11 (TUE): Penjikent/Dushanbe (Drive)

This morning, continue to Dushanbe with a drive through breathtaking Zarafshan Valley, following the river of the same name. This region offers awe-inspiring panoramas and is popular for climbing and hiking. Arriving at the capital city of Dushanbe, we visit the Museum of Antiquities, offering a rich collection of Greco-Bactrian, Sogdian and Persian art. Later, we also visit the National Museum of Tajikistan, boasting archaeological treasures from across the country.  Admire Ismail Samanid monument, representing the father of modern Tajikistan, before we check in to our hotel.

Overnight: Hilton Hotel, Dushanbe (1 night) (B, D)

Day 12 (WED): Dushanbe/Tashkent (Flight/Drive) (UZBEKISTAN)

After breakfast, we take a one-hour flight to Tashkent. On arrival, explore the leafy streets of Uzbekistan’s capital and its Old City, providing us with a fascinating picture of Islamic architecture throughout the history of one of Central Asia’s most culturally rich countries. First, see Khast-Imom Complex, site of the famous nearly 1,500-year-old Quran of the 3rd Caliph, Othman. Then, explore the beautiful Madrasah of Barak-Khan, Tilla Sheikh Mosque, the Mausoleum of the Saint Abu Bakr Kaffal Shashi, and the Islamic Institute of Imam al-Bukhari. Afterward, take in a whole different picture at Soviet-style Chor-Su Bazaar and Mustaqilik Square. Should our flight from Tashkent to Uzbekistan not operate, an alternative road transfer at the same cost as the flight will be provided (approx. 7 to 8 hours).

Overnight: Lotte Hotel, Tashkent (1 night) (B, D)

Day 13 (THU): Tashkent/Bishkek (Flight) (KYRGYZSTAN)

After breakfast, we are transferred to the airport for our flight to Bishkek, the capital city of Kyrgyzstan, where a cordial welcome awaits us. Bishkek was originally called Pishpek. However, it was later renamed Frunze in honour of a major political organizer of the Civil War born in Pishpek. It finally became Bishkek in 1991—however, the airport is still coded FRU for Frunze! At this fourth Stan capital, we’ll enjoy a 2-night stay at our centrally located hotel.

Overnight: B Hotel/Hotel Bridges, Bishkek (2 nights) (B, D)

Day 14 (FRI): Bishkek

Morning drive to Ala Archa Gorge, one of the most scenic regions of the Kyrgyz Mountains. Here, we’ll enjoy an optional easy hike surrounded by incredible mountain scenery. After lunch at a local café, we return to the city to enjoy a sightseeing tour to discover the best of Bishkek, a modern city with vast squares, crowded bazaars and impressive administrative centers. Our city tour takes us to the Manas Monument, honoring the legendary hero of the Kyrgyz people. We continue to Ala Too Square, the heart of Bishkek with its striking government buildings. From there, we visit Old Square and the Parliament House, followed by Victory Square, a solemn tribute to WWII. The tour concludes at the Central Museum in Ala Too Square. We end the day with a traditional Kyrgyz dinner back in the city. (B, D)

Day 15 (SAT): Bishkek/Issykul (Drive)

Today's scenic drive takes us along the shores of beautiful Lake Issyk-Kul (1607m), the tenth largest lake in the world by volume. Although it is surrounded by snow-capped peaks, the lake never freezes, which made it a popular recreational destination during Soviet times. En route, visit Burana Tower, a remnant of the ancient Silk Road city of Balasagun and UNESCO World Heritage Site, symbolizing Kyrgyzstan’s rich medieval heritage. At the lakeside town of Cholpon-Ata, we will see unique petroglyphs dating back 1,900 to 2,800 years. These carvings are from the time of the Saka-Usun people, who pre-dated the arrival of the Kyrgyz. We will also visit a small museum featuring many artifacts from the region.

Overnight: Hotel Karven/Hotel Raduga, Issykul Lake (1 night) (B, D)

Day 16 (SUN): Issykul/Almaty (Drive) (KAZAKHSTAN)

After breakfast, we continue on our journey to the last country of the 5 Stans, Kazakhstan. Our scenic route takes us to an elevation of 1,756 meters before we arrive at the check post for immigration formalities. After we cross the border, we’ll make our way to Almaty, which was the capital of Kazakhstan until 1997. En route to Almaty, we will discover the main symbol of Kazakhstan, the tomb of the Golden Man, where more than 4,000 gold ornaments dating back to 4th century BC were found. Once we arrive in Almaty, the remainder of the day is free.

Overnight: Hotel Astra, Almaty (2 nights) (B, D)

Day 17 (MON): Almaty

A unique day ahead as we explore the colonial and Soviet splendor of Almaty. The city’s Russian name, Alma-Ata, means “father of apples”, as this region is thought to be the ancestral home of this famous fruit. Almaty was the capital of the Kazakh Soviet Socialist Republic, and then of the new republic until 1997, when it was moved to Astana. Our tour starts with a visit to charming Panfilov Park before heading to the Zenkov’s Holy Ascension Cathedral, completed in 1907 and remaining the second tallest wooden church in the world. Next stop is the Central Mosque, built in 1999 as the largest mosque in Kazakhstan. At the Central State Museum, we see highlights such as excellent displays of Scythian art and a hall dedicated to the nomadic tribes of the region. Our dinner tonight includes typical Kazakh favourites as we celebrate our journey through the highlights of the Silk Road. (B, D)

Day 18 (TUE): Depart Almaty

After a fascinating cultural adventure on the Silk Road, we are transferred to the airport for our departure flight. Check out time is by 11:00 AM. Alternatively, enjoy an optional extension to Astana, a fascinatingly flashy city that the Guardian has dubbed “one of the strangest capital cities on Earth”. (B)

OPTIONAL POST-TOUR: Astana (KAZAKHSTAN)

Day 18 (TUE): Almaty/Astana (Flight)

From Kazakhstan’s old capital to its new one, we fly to Astana, an ultra-modern city offering a fantastic skyline and buildings of the future. Upon arrival, we are met and transferred to our hotel. Balance of the day is free, and Astana is a very safe city to take a stroll on your own. Here, one can admire the majestic architecture of the Parliament, Supreme Court, Ak Orda Presidential Palace, and more.

Overnight: Wyndham Gardens, Astana (2 nights) (B, D)

Day 19 (WED): Astana

Discover the impressive modern architecture of Astana today. Our first must-see stop is the Baiterek Tower, with a unique design that seems to defy gravity and an impressive view. We then discover Nur Astana Mosque, one of the largest mosques in Central Asia. The iconic Palace of Peace and Reconciliation is another striking structure, with its futuristic towering pyramid is our next stop. At the very top of the pyramid are paintings of doves, which stand for the many different groups living in peace in Kazakhstan. We will also see the Khan Shatyr Entertainment Tent and visit the National Museum.

An optional opportunity available to experience a classic performance at the state-of-the-art Theatre of Opera & Ballet. This cultural gem showcases some of the country’s best artistic talent, and tickets need to be purchased far in advance –please contact Bestway to pre-book. After dinner at a local restaurant, our exploration of Astana and we start bidding farewell to the land of the “Stans”. (B, D)

Day 20 (THU): Depart Astana

Enjoy breakfast at our hotel in Astana, with checkout by 11:00 AM. Airport transfers will be arranged according to our flight schedules. (B)

B=Breakfast, L=Lunch, D=Dinner

Departure Dates & Prices

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Notes

Inclusions

Participants

This tour operates on a minimum of 2 and a maximum of 12 participants

Customised Itinerary

If you would like to have a tour on dates other than the above ones or with a customised itinerary, please contact us and we will be happy to work out an exclusive program for you.

Contact Info
Email us at bestway@bestway.com or call 1-604-264-7378. Residents of U.S.A./Canada may call us toll free at 1-800-663-0844.

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