Multi-Stan Adventure - Bishkek to Tashkent
Experience Overview
With their reputation for welcoming visitors and their unique cultural footprint, the countries of Central Asia will remind you why you travel. This comprehensive 23-day tour will take you through nearly all the 'stans we visit, offering a fascinating glimpse at a beautiful part of the world most travellers miss. Stay at unique homestays, sleep in traditional yurts, discover the breathtaking mountain and desert scenery, enjoy free time in the Uzbek city of Tashkent, and roam gorgeous buildings built centuries ago. See Central Asia with a group of like-minded adventurers and an expert Chief Experience Officer (CEO) and cross off an entire and unexpected region of the world from your must-see list.
Highlights
- Learn about the diverse cultures of Central Asia
- Soak in the scenic beauty of mountains and deserts
- Connect with the locals during community village and yurt stays
- Marvel at colourful mosaic buildings
Trip Details
Product Code: 1740
Tour Type: Small Group
Accommodation: Budget
Transport: Private vehicles, plane, train, walking.
Guide Language: English
Travel Styles:
Budget
Tour Operator:
G Adventures
Supplier Code: AYKU
Starts: Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan
Finishes: Tashkent, Uzbekistan
Duration: 23 days
Departures: Guaranteed
Physical Rating:
Average
Includes
Activities
- Your G for Good Moment: Yurt Building Demonstration, Barskoon Your Welcome Moment: Welcome Moment - Meet Your CEO and Group, Bishkek Your Local Living Moment: Overnight in a Yurt, Song Köl Your Local Living Moment: Tamga Village Stay, Tamga Your Local Living Moment: Community Homestay, Kuli Iskandarkul Your Local Living Moment: Overnight in a Yurt, Aydar Kŭl Camp
- Half-day city tour (Bishkek)
- Burana Tower Visit (Bishkek)
- Przhevalsky Museum Visit (Karakol)
- Yurt building presentation (Kizil Tuu)
- Stay Village Stay
- City tour (Almaty)
- Charyn Canyon Visit
- City tour (Dushanbe)
- Waterfall hike (Kŭli Iskandarkŭl)
- City tour (Khujand)
- Mug Yepe Visit (Istaravshan)
- Market visit (Khujand)
- City tour (Samarkand)
- Walking tour (Bukhara)
- Chashma Complex and Holy Spring Visit (Nurata)
- Fortress of Alexander the Great Visit (Nurata)
- City tour (Bukhara)
- Khiva Ancient City Tour
- City tour (Tashkent)
- Felt-making workshop visit
- Hikes and picnic lunch
- Internal flight
- Transport between destinations and to/from included activities
Accommodation
- Standard hotels/guesthouses (19 nights), yurts (2 nights, multishare up to 4 people per yurt), CBT homestay (1 night multishare).
- 22 breakfasts, 4 lunches, 8 dinners
Transport
- Private vehicles, plane, train, walking.
Group Leader
- CEO (Chief Experience Officer) throughout.
Price
Price per person: (Double Occupancy) CAD $4,559 ($198 /day)
Itinerary
Day 1: Bishkek
Arrive at any time.
Welcome to Kyrgyzstan's artsy capital and cultural hub, situated at the base of the Tian Shan mountain range. There are no planned activities until the evening welcome meeting, so get out there and explore!
Day 2: Bishkek/Chong-Kemin
After breakfast, embark on a city tour of Bishkek before travelling to the serenity of Chong-Kemin Valley. Along the way, stop at one of Kyrgyzstan's oldest sights, the Burana Tower and learn about this ancient structure, rare in nomadic culture. Tonight, stay in a cozy guest house run by Ashuu villagers. Soak in the stunning scenery while exploring the village and savour a home-cooked traditional dinner.
Day 3: Chong-Kemin/Song Kul
In the morning, opt for a hike to the nearby mountains or explore the famous gorges of Chong-Kemin. After lunch, enjoy the scenic drive along the Kalmak-Ashuu mountain pass to Song Kul Lake. Immerse yourself in Kyrgyz culture with an overnight stay in a traditional yurt. Experience daily nomadic life and wander the breathtaking landscape. With an altitude of 3,016 meters above sea level, it's possible to experience four seasons in one day! Indulge in delicious home-cooked cuisine for dinner, then get cozy in the yurt around the stove.
Day 4: Song Kul/Tamga
Spend the morning soaking in all the beauty of Song Kul Lake before departing for Kochkor to learn the importance of felt-making to Kyrgyz culture and local artisans. Learn the craft during a hands-on workshop creating a small version of the traditional carpet known as ala-kiyiz, and enjoy lunch together. Afterward, head to Tamga village in the clutches of the Terskey Ala-Too and celestial Issyk-Kol' Lake, where you'll spend the night at a village guesthouse and get to know the local community members.
Tamga village was once famous for its Soviet-era military sanatorium, where Soviet cosmonauts relaxed and recovered after space flights. The complex still exists in its original, untouched 1930's glory, with an atmosphere that would seem to bring you back in time.
Day 5: Tamga/Karakol
Enjoy a free morning getting to know this isolated village. Transfer to Ak-Orgo Workshop Centre to observe how traditional yurts are built and learn about the importance of this Kyrgyz craft. After Lunch at Ak Orgoo, drive to Kyrgyzstan's 4th largest city - Karakol. Stop for a visit at the Prejevalskiy Museum, dedicated to the famous Russian explorer Nikolai Przhevalsky, followed by a city tour. See the Russian Holy Trinity Orthodox Church and pagoda-style Dungan Mosque, built by Chinese Muslims in the early 20th Century.
Day 6: Karakol
After breakfast take a short drive to Jety-Oguz Gorge, located in the footsteps of Terskey Ala-Too Mountains, and visit famous unique red rock formations called “Broken Heart and “Seven Bulls”. Then, hike to the valley of wildflowers and reach a stunning view point overlooking the flower-filled valley. Return to Karakol and have a free afternoon to explore. In the evening enjoy dinner with local family
Day 7: Karakol/Saty Village
Cross the border into Kazakhstan on the journey to Saty Village, part of the Kolsay Lakes National Park. On arrival, jump in a Russian 4x4 for the ride to Kaindy Lake, then embark on a trek to explore the sunken forest. Soak in the bright hues and marvel at the eerie sight of submerged trees. Spend the night in a homestay and indulge in traditional Kazakh meals for a true Kazakh experience.
Day 8: Saty Village/Almaty
Depart early this morning for Almaty, the former Kazakh capital, stopping along the way to marvel at Charyn Canyon. Boasting stunning shades of red, orange, and brown, the Charyn Canyon is a natural wonder comparable in beauty to the Grand Canyon. On arrive in Almaty, take a city tour visiting sights such as Independence Square, Zenkov Cathedral, Panfilov's Park, and the striking WWII memorial. Time permitting, opt to climb Green Hill for panoramic views, visit the local markets, or sip coffee in one of the plentiful cafés.
Day 9: Almaty/Dushanbe
In the morning, transfer to Almaty airport and board a flight to Dushanbe, the capital of Tajikistan, on the Varzob River. Upon arrival enjoy a tour of Dushanbe, visiting the main monuments, museum, and mosque.
There may be more travellers joining the group here. Opt to attend an evening welcome meeting to get to know them.
Day 10: Dushanbe/Kuli Iskandarkul/ Gazza Village
Enjoy a morning drive through the valleys and mountains to Kuli Iskandarkul. Pass along Alexander the Great's lake and go on a short hike to Iskander Darya waterfall. After lunch continue the drive to our overnight stay at a Community Guest house in Gazza Village. Meet the local people and explore the gorgeous landscape of the Fann Mountains. Upon arrival to Gazza village the group will set out on a walk followed by dinner at local family's home.
Day 11: Gazza Village
After breakfast, embark on a hike alongside Voru River to visit Voru village (one of the old Villages of Fan Mountains). After the village exploration, head back to to Community guest house. Spend the afternoon at leisure. Opt to join a hike to picturesque Khushtarita valley. Have dinner in a community guest house with the group.
Day 12: Gazza Village to Khujand
Continue on to Khujand, stopping first in Istaravshan to explore a local mosque and Mug Teppe, an ancient citadel fortress stormed by Alexander the Great in 329 BC. Enjoy an optional lunch in a local chaikhana (teahouse) before continuing the drive to Khujand. Wander the city in the afternoon, visiting the Historical Museum of Sughd, resembling a castle, and the Mausoleum of Sheik Muslekheddin.
Day 13: Khujand/Tashkent
Visit the Khujand market (largest in Tajikistan) before continuing on to the border. Cross into Uzbekistan and drive to the capital city of Tashkent, where modern skyscrapers mix with Soviet-era architecture and mosaic mausoleums. Enjoy a short orientation walk in the evening before an optional dinner.
Some travellers will be joining the group here as they start their journey into Uzbekistan.
Day 14: Tashkent
Spend the day freely exploring this unique bustling city. Check out one of the many museums, wander the streets admiring the modern, Soviet-era architecture, venture up Tashkent Tower (which offers city views from its observation deck), or wander through the bazaar.
Day 15: Tashkent/Samarkand
Travel on to Samarkand, known for intricately beautiful mosques and mausoleums, situated on the Silk Road. Take an orientation walk and opt to visit the Amir Timur Mausoleum, dedicated to the famous conqueror who once hoped to rebuild the empire of Genghis Khan.
Day 16: Samarkand
Embark on a city tour, visiting Ulugbek Observatory, Shaki Zinda complex, the bazaar, Bibi Khanum, and Registan Square. With a free afternoon, continue exploring the Samarkand sights, have a cuppa in a local tea house, or wander around the bazaar. Opt to explore the Tomb of Prophet Daniel, famous for the Biblical story of Daniel and the lions.
Day 17: Samarkand/Aydar Kŭl Camp
Travel out into the desert to visit Chashma Complex, a pilgrimage site in the territory of Nurata, dominated by ruins of Alexander the Great's fortress, Juma mosque, a bath-house, and the ancient Panjvakta mosque. All of this, hiding a holy spring believed to heal diseases. After exploring the complex, head to Aidarkul Lake and opt for a swim before continuing on for an overnight stay in a local yurt camp. Enjoy an authentic Uzbekistan dinner and an evening Kazakh singing show.
Day 18: Aydar Kŭl Camp/Bukhara
Travel to Bukhara, known as one of the most charming cities in the country, and get your bearings on an orientation walk. Opt to visit the old city bazaars, enjoy a traditional dinner cooked by a local family, visit a hammam (bathhouse), or just relax in the pleasant atmosphere of this Silk Road city.
Day 19: Bukhara
Explore Bukhara on a half-day guided walking tour around the beautifully restored mosques, madrassas, and covered markets, or trading domes, that make up the Old City. A centre for pottery, cloth, and carpets, Bukhara is centered around Lyabi-Hauz, a delightful pool of water surrounded by ancient mulberry trees. Wander the artisan shops and narrow twisting streets and alleyways, or sit at a café table and let the evening drift by. Opt to watch a local puppet show held in an old caravanserai, or indulge in a rejuvenating hammam bathhouse.
Day 20: Bukhara/Khiva
Enjoy a scenic drive through the desert on a full day's journey to reach UNESCO-listed Khiva, well worth the arduous drive. Get to know this peaceful, picturesque city on a late afternoon orientation walk, and pick your favourite spots to explore more in-depth tomorrow.
Day 21: Khiva
Before exploring this historic town on your own, enjoy a guided tour to learn about local life here. Wander through the narrow labyrinth mudbrick alleyways of old town, bargain with locals at the bazaar, admire the madrassas, mosques, and blue mosaic domes, climb up towering minarets, and venture into the dark dungeons Khiva was infamous for back in the 10th century. Explore the inner walls of Ichon-Qala, and enjoy spectacular sunset views on the sand-coloured buildings.
Day 22: Khiva/Tashkent
Take a short flight back to Tashkent and enjoy a city tour, then explore on your own with some free time.
Day 23: Tashkent
Depart at any time.
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Tour Operator
G Adventures
G Adventures is an operator of small-group escorted tours. It is based in Toronto, Ontario, Canada with 28 offices worldwide. It offers more than 700 itineraries in more than 100 countries, and carries 200,000 travelers from 160 countries each year.
In Business Since 1990
Reviews
Emily D., - Traveled, August 2023
I have always enjoyed the trips I have taken and felt very well cared for.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 10/12/2023
Adrian B., - Traveled, August 2023
The trip ran smoothly. What was promised was delivered. The CEO were excellent
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 10/12/2023
Vincent P., - Traveled, August 2023
Overall, the programme and places visited met my expectations. Guiding was largely good.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 10/05/2023
Elizabeth M., - Traveled, July 2023
Fascinating part of the world, great CEOs to facilitate our journey, fresh air, organic food, lots of exercise.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 09/11/2023
Melanie F., - Traveled, July 2023
Depends on the type of traveler because it's not luxurious and always affordable but for the right traveler, makes perfect sense.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 08/22/2023
Sharolyn S., - Traveled, July 2023
I have traveled with G Adventures/GEEO three times now, and each experience has been top notch and amazing. I appreciate the sustainable travel and support of local communities and how knowledgeable the guides are.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 09/02/2023
Michael K., - Traveled, October 2023
This tour was just wonderful. Incredible people?s and cultures, a blend of outdoor and historical experiences, great CEOs and amazing travel companions.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 12/02/2023
Darcy S., - Traveled, October 2023
great small group tours that explore local cultures
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 11/12/2023
Andreas Friedrich F., - Traveled, October 2023
It was my first travel with G Adventures and it was a marvelous trip with a nice group of participants, from various countries, all of them interested and open-minded.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 11/26/2023
Rebecca R., - Traveled, October 2023
I enjoy the style of traveling with small groups and supporting local communities
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 12/01/2023
Vivian H., - Traveled, October 2023
G Adventures provides a wide variety of activities and is a dependsble company.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 11/29/2023
Temple H., - Traveled, October 2023
Multi focused itineraries, coupled with off the beaten track explorations and supported by an excellent home base infrastructure of great people
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 12/05/2023
Ann G., - Traveled, September 2023
I have always liked how G provides authentic connection with the country and it's culture. G balances adventure with support very well. It is well organised, provides some truly amazing and unexpected experiences and plans the itineraries well. This was my 7th G Adventures and every one has been 10++_
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 11/02/2023
Llinos R., - Traveled, August 2023
Everything is well organised and the tours include the best highlights of the places visited.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 10/05/2023
Yu Ting F., - Traveled, July 2023
able to join as individual traveler
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 09/01/2023
Catherine G., - Traveled, July 2023
I would very much recommend g for certain areas of the world. As well, I would always remind people that it is group travel and highlight the advantages of group travel and things to consider when deciding whether to join a tour. Having said that, I am quite comfortable recommending g
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 08/23/2023
Emma K., - Traveled, July 2023
Good options of tours to different places. Great for single travellers.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 08/29/2023
Flurina F., - Traveled, July 2023
it's a good way to travel alone and meet other like minded people.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 09/15/2023
Alice R., - Traveled, July 2023
GAdventure is an easy and nice way to see the country you want. Also it's usually the best quality/price
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 09/12/2023
Lucy H., - Traveled, July 2023
Just a really well run operation and have enjoyed all my G Adventures tours
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 08/19/2023
Anne K., - Traveled, June 2023
I have been traveling with G Adventures for many years now and have had many memorable experiences, they are very thouough in all their dealings, following up on issues raised and help you along the way in the booking process, I have no hesitation recommending them to newbies to travel or veteran travellers as realisable and giving a guaranteed fantastic experience.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 08/01/2023
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