Mongolia’s Golden Eagle Festival & Kazakhstan
Mongolia’s Golden Eagle Festival & Kazakhstan
Mongolia’s Golden Eagle Festival & Kazakhstan
16 Days Starting in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia and ending in Almaty, Kazakhstan
Visiting: Ulaanbaatar, Bayan-Olgii Province, Altai, Ulgii, Terelj National Park, Almaty, Charyn Canyon, Kolsai Lakes, Tulkubas, Aksu Zhabagly National Park, Turkestan
Tour operator:
Tour code:
16811
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Interests:
Activities:
Tour Overview
- Join Crooked Compass Founder Lisa Pagotto on this one-off departure to experience the best of Mongolia and Kazakhstan on this intimate tour
- Witness eagle demonstrations, horse races, and traditional Kazakh games, experiencing the agility and skill of trained golden eagles
- Explore the natural splendour of Terelj National Park, discovering its rock formations and the serene Aryabal Meditation Temple
- Traverse Charyn Canyon's majestic landscapes, unveiling its Valley of Castles and the stunning natural formations carved over millions of years
- Immerse in Kazakh traditions at the Hunni Ethno Village
Embark on an extraordinary journey to the heart of two undiscovered gems in Central Asia alongside Crooked Compass Founder, Lisa Pagotto for this one-off departure never to be repeated.
Where sapphire lakes shimmer and the steep architecture of ancient cities impress. Sheer peaks capped with snow stand as testaments to the wild nomadic frontiers you will explore on this journey. In Kazakhstan and Mongolia, the landscapes are as diverse as they are pristine, offering travellers some of the most incredible and traditional experiences our planet has to offer.
Your adventure begins with a visit to Mongolia's renowned Eagle Festival, a captivating celebration of tradition where Kazakh eagle hunters, known as Burkitshi, honour their heritage. Here, they showcase their exceptional skills alongside their specially trained golden eagles, competing in thrilling contests of speed, agility, and precision. As you join in the festivities, you'll have the opportunity to witness the captivating bond between these majestic birds and their masters while immersing yourself in the rich Kazakh culture. Along the way, you'll share moments with nomadic communities, gaining insight into their traditional way of life and the resilient spirit required for survival in this rugged landscape.
Join Lisa for a once-in-a-lifetime experience, where the allure of Kazakhstan's natural beauty and Mongolia's Golden Eagle Festival combine to create an unforgettable expedition into the heart of Central Asia's untamed beauty.
[caption id="attachment_16860" align="alignnone" width="1024"] Crooked Compass Founder, Lisa Pagotto[/caption]
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1 – Arrive In Ulaanbaatar
Location: Ulaanbaatar
Accommodation Name: Shangri La Hotel or similar
Meals Included: Dinner
Welcome to Mongolia! Upon arrival, you will be met at Chinggis Khaan International Airport and transferred to your hotel in the centre of Ulaanbaatar (which the locals call “UB”), the capital of Mongolia. The remainder of the day is yours at leisure. This evening you will enjoy a welcome dinner where you’ll meet your fellow travellers and your guide will give a briefing on the adventures to come. Enjoy witnessing an incredible folklore concert this evening – a great introduction to Mongolian culture. (D)Overnight – Shangri La Hotel or similar
Day 2 – Ulaanbaatar - Ulgii Town - Altai Town
Location: Bayan-Olgii Province
Accommodation Name: Altai Ger Camp or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Today you’ll take a 1hr 15min flight to Bayan-Olgii Province, where 90% of the population is Muslim Kazakh. This is the western most province in Mongolia and it has the feel of a wild west frontier town. Meet your support crew for the next leg of your Mongolian adventure before enjoying lunch in a Turkish restaurant.Continue to drive out to Altai Town and on to your Altai Ger Camp (approx. 3 hours), your base for the incredible Golden Eagle Festival which is sure to be a real highlight of your trip. We set up our ger camp especially for the festival, using gers borrowed from the local families. Our remote camp is built amongst the eagle hunters’ gers, giving us incredible opportunities to interact with them – they may even join us for a meal!Our own cooks will serve freshly prepared meals in the dining ger each evening, keeping you well fuelled for the festival. There are no showers during this time and toilet’s will be camping style including a tent and portable seat. It will be cold and can sometimes be wet or snowing, so ensure that you have suitable clothing for this leg of the journey. Each ger will have a wood burning stove and blankets will be provided however you will also need your warm clothes. As there is no electricity at our temporary ger camp, we will have a number of generators that will be used, including for cooking. You will be able to charge your devices using these generators, or in the vehicles, however time may be limited so we advise you to bring full power banks to supplement these other methods. Please note that other guests of Crooked Compass will be staying at this ger camp, and you will be mingling with them in the dining ger.After enjoying a freshly cooked dinner, settle into your ger and get a good night’s sleep. Tomorrow is festival day! (B,L,D)Overnight – Basic Ger Camp (no showers, camping style toilets)
Day 3 – Altai Golden Eagle Festival
Location: Altai
Accommodation Name: Altai Ger Camp or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
After breakfast, you will start the day by visiting a local horse race (approx. 40 min away). Mingle with the locals who have come to celebrate their unique cultural heritage.Witness Kazakh hunters in all their glory, and see a parade of falconers on horseback, their prized eagles perched on their arms. After the parade, each hunter will demonstrate how well their bird obeys his commands by placing his eagle on a nearby cliff edge and calling it from below. It’s a spectacular sight to see these birds of prey soar down to their owners and alight on their arms.Witness the eagle hunter competition, beginning with a parade by eagle hunters with their hunting outfits and accessories. The most elaborate and beautiful adornments receive the highest marks. This is followed by thrilling competitions where the Golden Eagles are evaluated for their speed, agility and accuracy. The festival provides a unique opportunity to be up-close be part of the festivity and take many incredible photographs.The festival provides a unique opportunity to be up-close and be part of the festivity and to capture some incredible photographic opportunities. The Golden Eagles are evaluated for their speed, agility and accuracy. Return to your ger camp for dinner. (B,L,D)Overnight – Basic Ger Camp (no showers, camping style toilets)
Day 4 – Altai Golden Eagle Festival
Location: Altai
Accommodation Name: Altai Ger Camp or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
This morning after breakfast, you will head out for another fascinating day to the Eagle Festival. Today you will witness trained golden eagles display their speed and agility. To test their eagles’ skills, hunters drag a fox skin behind their horse, and the fastest eagle to land on the skin is considered the best hunter.Witness traditional Kazakh games, such as aitis, a poetry duel; kyzkuar, a dating game played on horseback; and kokpar, a team sport played on horseback with a goatskin – some of you may know it as ‘goat polo’, the national sport of Afghanistan! Tonight, we invite our Golden Eagle masters to join us at dinner. (B,L,D).Overnight – Basic Ger Camp
Day 5 – Altai- Ulgii Town
Location: Ulgii
Accommodation Name: Altay ger camp in Ulgii or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Have a relaxing morning before setting off to visit a local Golden Eagle Master’s family (approx. 1 hour journey) and join them in their home for lunch. Drive out to Ulgii town in the afternoon (3 hour drive) and transfer to your local ger camp. (B,L,D)Overnight – Standard Ger Camp
Day 6 – Ulgii - Flight To Ulaanbaatar
Location: Ulaanbaatar
Accommodation Name: Shangri La Hotel or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Following breakfast, take your 1hr 15min flight back to Ulaanbaatar city and transfer to your hotel. Visit the Gandan Monastery which is home to a huge gold-plated Buddha, a symbol of Mongolian national pride and cultural revival. (B,L,D)Overnight – Shangri La Hotel or similar
Day 7 – Terelj National Park & Genghis Khan Statue
Location: Terelj National Park
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Today you will explore Terelj National Park. Walk through meadows carpeted with edelweiss and wildflowers, view fascinating rock formations against a backdrop of pine-covered mountains and wander along the wooded banks of a mountain stream.You will also visit the Aryabal Meditation Temple. As you climb the 108 stairs to the temple (the number 108 holds great significance in Buddhism), stop and take time to read the Buddhist teachings that are on signs along the way. You will also find 108 prayer wheels and 108 small stupas at the temple. The 108 stairs leading up to the temple are said to symbolise an elephant’s trunk, the long path is designed for walking meditation and reflection.The main temple hall has beautiful carvings on its wooden posts and beams, and the walls of the interior space are brightly decorated with paintings and stories depicting the lives of famous Arhats.Continuing on, you visit the great Genghis Khan statue on the banks of the Tuul River. Over 40 metres high and visible for miles around, it is possible to climb the statue to enjoy some sweeping views across the countryside. Enjoy a final dinner in Mongolia tonight. (B,L,D)Overnight – Shangri La Hotel or similar
Day 8 – Ulaanbaatar - Fly To Almaty, Kazakhstan
Location: Almaty
Accommodation Name: Dostyk Hotel or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
This morning is at leisure until it is time to transfer to the airport for your onward flight to Kazakhstan.On arrival at 1.30 pm, you will be met and transferred to your hotel. Enjoy some time at leisure to relax before meeting at 4 pm when you will transfer to the 1st President Park and witness the Sunkar Falcon show. Here you will visit the nursery of a rare endangered species of bird “Sunkar” which is totally unique. The nursery is the only one in the whole of Kazakhstan and has raised 1060 birds and released 260 falcons back into nature. By visiting the falcon nursery, you can admire these most beautiful birds, learn about their biological characteristics, and more than that, watch a falcon show. The trained birds take part in the show as they demonstrate hunting and collecting food out of the water. The story about the tradition and history of falconry will be shared during a spectacular performance with freely flying birds of prey. Enjoy dinner in a local restaurant. (B,D)Overnight – Dostyk Hotel or similar
Day 9 – Issyk Lake & Charyn Canyon
Location: Charyn Canyon
Accommodation Name: local guesthouse in Saty Village or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
This morning you will transfer to Issyk Lake. Issyk Lake beckons with its stunning turquoise waters, surrounded by the majestic Tien Shan mountains, offering tranquillity and natural beauty. Continue on to Charyn Canyon. Admire the grand panorama and descend to the bottom of the canyon to walk approx. 2km through the maze of the Valley of the Castles.Charyn Canyon is a natural complex, unique in its kind not only in Kazakhstan but also worldwide. It was formed during the Paleogene and reminds you of the Grand Canyon in North America, although inferior to it in size. The height of the steep slopes of the canyon is up to 150-300m. The extraordinary dissection of the terrain is striking: the numerous ravines form a dense, chaotic network. Wind and water have created the beautiful ‘Valley of Castles’, where you are always surrounded by fancy towerscomposed of sedimentary rocks. The length of the valley is more than 2km and its width is 20-80m. For millions of years, nature has been creating a unique architecture, erecting magnificent castles carefully and slowly. You can spend hours walking amongst the strange towers and columns, being absorbed in the wild imagination of nature.The bottom of the canyon has a slight descent to the end of the walk, where you will reach the fresh oasis on the banks of the icy cold Charyn River. Relax and take in the surrounding beauty before walking back and driving to one of the observation points for another breathtaking panoramic view.Lunch today is in the village of Baiseit where you will have the opportunity to try Uighur cuisine. (B,L)Overnight – local guesthouse in Saty Village or similar
Day 10 – Kolsai Lake And Kaindy Lake
Location: Kolsai Lakes
Accommodation Name: Dostyk Hotel or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
The Kolsai Lakes, known as the ‘Pearls of the Northern Tien-Shan’, represent a cascade of three lakes. The largest lake is accessible to all travellers. It is the most beautiful lake, with a lack of civilization and an abundance of wild mushrooms. For those who are horse lovers, there is the option to explore on horseback. The highest lake is small. It is located on the border of firwood and the alpine meadows and amazes with its harsh alpine beauty, as well as the rich flora and fauna. The vertical drop between the three lakes is about 700m. The lowest lake can be reached by vehicle. Walk a few kilometres along mountain trails to see the second and third lakes. This will be one of your highlights. This area is rich in berries, mushrooms and fishing. The water in the lakes is cold and clean and is home to the rainbow trout – a fish that lives only in running or spring water. In the surrounding mountains, you can see Marals, mountain goats, wolves and even bears.From here, continue to Kaindy Lake, often referred to as “birch lake,” which is nestled amidst a magnificent pine forest at an altitude of 2,000 metres above sea level. The lake’s fame stems from its unique origin—it was formed in 1911 following a powerful earthquake that triggered a landslide, creating a natural dam that flooded the valley. As a result, the water in the lake remains remarkably cold, preserving the pine needles of the submerged trees, which are clearly visible through its crystal-clear surface. Dry fir tree trunks rise above the water, resembling the masts of a submarine squadron. The lake’s mystical beauty is truly indescribable. Afterwards, return to Almaty. (B,L,D)Overnight – local guesthouse in Saty Village or similar
Day 11 – Hunni Ethno Village
Location: Tulkubas
Accommodation Name: Overnight train
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
This morning you will set off to the Hunni Ethno Village where you will receive a welcome greeting from two warriors wearing armour showcasing the Saka Period. Participate in a national ritual called Shashi, which is a traditional practice of showering guests with anything from cookies that are crumbed, to sweets to coins! Following this, participate in the Baursaks Kazakh puffy bread cooking master class. Whilst your bread is cooking, become acquainted with the construction of a Kazakh yurt and its sacral meaning for a nomad. You will also learn about old-time Kazakh housekeeping duties such as whisking wool, spindle yarn making and grinding flour by hand.At midday, witness a Sarbaz Nomad Group performance. Here you will witness National Horse Games such as Jigitovka – horseback riding with acrobatic elements including Atpen audaryspak (struggling and pushing a rival while horseriding), Kyz kuu (a game for when a lady rejects a man’s approach) Kara Zhorga (traditional Kazakh dance) and of course horseback riding. Enjoy a lunch showcasing national cuisine such as plov, fresh salads, and of course, local tea. Following lunch, you have the opportunity to participate in an archery master class! From here, you will transfer to the train station to catch a train to Tulkubas. (B,L)Overnight – Overnight train
Day 12 – Aksu Zhanagly National Park
Location: Aksu Zhabagly National Park
Accommodation Name: local guest house
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
On arrival at Tulkubas this morning, head to Aksu Zhanagly National Park. Located in the southern part of Kazakhstan, this park is a natural wonder and one of the oldest protected areas in Central Asia. The park’s terrain is incredibly diverse, featuring everything from lush alpine meadows to rugged mountain ranges. It is part of the Western Tien Shan Mountain system, which is known for its towering peaks and deep valleys. The Aksu River flows through the park, creating picturesque gorges and dramatic canyons along its course.Aksu-Zhabagly National Park is a haven for biodiversity. It’s home to a wide range of flora and fauna, including rare and endangered species. The park boasts over 50 species of mammals, including the elusive snow leopard, brown bear, and ibex. Birdwatchers will delight in the park’s diverse avian population, which includes golden eagles and Himalayan griffons. The park is also famous for its diverse plant life, with numerous species of wildflowers, medicinal herbs, and rare endemic plants.In addition to its natural beauty, the park has cultural significance as it’s home to Kazakh nomadic herders who graze their livestock in the high-altitude pastures during the summer months. Their traditional yurts and way of life offer a glimpse into Kazakhstan’s nomadic heritage.Dinner this evening, is in a local home with a Kazakh family. Dining with a Kazakh family in their home offers a heartfelt glimpse into Kazakhstan’s culture. You will be warmly welcomed into a traditional setting with cushions on the floor. The meal is a showcase of homemade delicacies like beshbarmak and manti, enriched with aromatic spices. The Kazakh tea ceremony is an integral part of the experience. Cultural exchange is encouraged, with stories and laughter filling the air. (B,L,D)Overnight – Local Guesthouse
Day 13 – Turkestan
Location: Turkestan
Accommodation Name: Rixos Turkestan or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
This morning you will transfer to Turkestan. Turkestan is a city of profound historical and cultural significance. It’s renowned for its role as a prominent Silk Road hub, where traders, scholars, and travellers once converged. The city boasts architectural gems like the Mausoleum of Khoja Ahmed Yasawi, a UNESCO World Heritage site, showcasing stunning Timurid-era design. Turkestan is a pilgrimage destination for Muslims, honouring the revered Sufi poet Khoja Ahmed Yasawi. You will be drawn to its grand bazaars, ornate mosques, and vibrant festivals. Today, Turkestan remains a captivating blend of ancient heritage and modern life, preserving its rich history as it embraces the future.Visit Arystan Bab Mausoleum, which is a revered religious and pilgrimage site. It is dedicated to the memory of Arystan Baba, a Sufi saint and spiritual leader who lived in the 12th century. You will also visit the ancient city of Otrar, an ancient Silk Road city in Kazakhstan, which offers a glimpse of its historical importance through archaeological ruins and a museum showcasing artefacts. (B,L,D)Overnight – Rixos Turkestan or similar
Day 14 – Turkestan - Overnight Train To Almaty
Location: Almaty
Accommodation Name: Overnight train
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
This morning you will visit Khodja Akhmed Yassui mausoleum. Continuing on, visit Sauran Settlement which is a journey back in time to a once-prosperous Silk Road city. Explore ancient ruins that reveal its trading legacy, architectural marvels, and cultural heritage. In the evening, transfer to the train station to catch your train back to Almaty. (B,L,D)Overnight – Overnight train
Day 15 – Almaty
Location: Almaty
Accommodation Name: Dostyk Hotel or similar
Meals Included: Lunch, Dinner
Arrive in Almaty around 10.30 am and depart for a city tour. Starting in the central part of Almaty, you’ll learn about the city’s history and development as the Southern capital of Kazakhstan and visit its major attractions.Your tour begins at Panfilov Park, home to Zenkov Cathedral, one of the world’s most beautiful wooden buildings. You’ll also visit the Memorial of Glory and Eternal Flame, dedicated to those who fought for the country’s freedom and independence. Explore the Central State Museum and Republic Square.Next, head to Kok-Tobe hill, home to the world’s tallest TV tower when measured from sea level. Reach it via a scenic, winding mountain road, and take some time to stroll through Kok-Tobe Park, where you can enjoy city views from a special observation deck. Dinner this evening is at the Abai restaurant at Kok Tobe. (L,D)Overnight – Dostyk Hotel or similar
Day 16 – Departure
Location: Almaty
Meals Included: Breakfast
Today is yours at leisure until it is time to check out and transfer to the airport for your onward flight. (B)
What's Included
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Return airport transfers
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15 nights accommodation
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Meals as per the itinerary
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English-speaking local certified Guide
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Bottled water
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Private transportation
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Entrance fees
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Domestic flights (15kg luggage allowance)
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Eagle Festival fee
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Overnight train Almaty to Tulkubas and Turkestan to Almaty
What's Not Included
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International flights
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Visas
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Travel and medical insurance
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All services, meals other than those indicated above
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Personal porters
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Any changes to the proposed and confirmed program.
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All items of a personal nature e.g. drinks, laundry, telephone calls, tips etc
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Early check-in/Late check-out
Mode of Transport
Travel in comfort with private transportation, domestic flights, and an international flight between Ulaanbaatar and Almaty. Enjoy scenic drives, an overnight train journey, and a flight to Bayan-Olgii Province, ensuring a seamless exploration of Mongolia and Kazakhstan.
Accommodation
Experience a blend of luxury and tradition with stays at the Shangri La Hotel in Ulaanbaatar, Altai Ger Camp, and the Dostyk Hotel in Almaty. Enjoy unique accommodations like local guesthouses in Saty Village and Turkestan, and an overnight train journey for a truly immersive experience.
Check out our Q&As
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What is the significance of the Golden Eagle Festival in Mongolia?
The Golden Eagle Festival in Mongolia is a unique cultural event where Kazakh hunters demonstrate their skills with trained golden eagles. It showcases the traditional hunting practices of the Kazakh people, with eagles evaluated for their speed, agility, and accuracy. The festival also includes traditional Kazakh games and provides a rich cultural experience for visitors.
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What can I expect to see at the Gandan Monastery in Ulaanbaatar?
At the Gandan Monastery in Ulaanbaatar, you can expect to see a huge gold-plated Buddha, which is a symbol of Mongolian national pride and cultural revival. The monastery is an important religious site and offers insight into the spiritual practices of Mongolia.
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What activities are included in the visit to Terelj National Park?
During the visit to Terelj National Park, you will explore meadows with wildflowers, view rock formations, and walk along mountain streams. You will also visit the Aryabal Meditation Temple, where you can climb 108 stairs and see prayer wheels and stupas, offering a meditative experience.
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What is the Sunkar Falcon show in Almaty about?
The Sunkar Falcon show in Almaty is a unique performance where trained birds of prey demonstrate hunting skills and collect food from water. The show is held at the Sunkar nursery, which is dedicated to raising and releasing rare and endangered bird species back into nature.
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What makes Charyn Canyon a unique destination?
Charyn Canyon is a natural complex known for its stunning landscapes, reminiscent of the Grand Canyon. It features steep slopes, ravines, and the famous 'Valley of Castles' with unique rock formations created by wind and water. The canyon offers breathtaking views and opportunities for exploration.
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What cultural experiences are offered at the Hunni Ethno Village?
At the Hunni Ethno Village, you will be greeted by warriors in traditional armor and participate in the Shashu ritual. You can join a Kazakh bread cooking class, learn about yurt construction, and witness traditional Kazakh games and performances. The visit includes a lunch of national cuisine and an archery master class.
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What wildlife can be found in Aksu Zhabagly National Park?
Aksu Zhabagly National Park is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including rare and endangered species such as the snow leopard, brown bear, and ibex. Birdwatchers can see golden eagles and Himalayan griffons, and the park is rich in plant life with wildflowers and endemic species.
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What historical sites are visited in Turkestan?
In Turkestan, you will visit the Mausoleum of Khoja Ahmed Yasawi, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and the Arystan Bab Mausoleum, a revered religious site. The tour also includes a visit to the ancient city of Otrar, offering insights into its historical significance along the Silk Road.
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Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
Yes. Focusing on providing authentic experiences where ever you are in the world, Crooked Compass has access to a vast array of accommodation styles. From boutique properties in larger cities to local guest houses and home stays within small villages. Crooked Compass ensures that local authenticity flows through your accommodation throughout your tour without compromising standard.
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What sort of transportation is used for your tours?
Transportation utilised on a Crooked Compass escorted small group tour is a combination of a private air conditioned vehicle and local transport where appropriate. This may include a local bus ride, use of the cities metro system, a domestic flight to another city or overnight train ride.
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What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
Crooked Compass strives to be a leader in sustainable tourism. Crooked Compass is firmly committed to the principles of ethical travel. Our comprehensive Sustainable Tourism Practices policy summarises our commitments and actions. Although the very basis of our ground operations lends itself to the ethos of sustainable tourism, this policy re-iterates our commitment to: Use locally owned hotels Use locally owned ground agents Use local guides and drivers Promote community tourism projects from homestays to craft shops Support charities that work within the destinations that we travel to Carbon offset our travels
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Who runs your tours and are they experts in their fields?
Crooked Compass works with the worlds best operators who are specialists in their country, region and cities providing you with in depth local knowledge. We use local guides who live and breathe the areas they work in, making sure you experience their region, their way. We believe it is far better to have a local guide who knows a lot about a little than a text book trained Western tour guide who knows a little about a lot. Using local guides also ensures that money stays within local communities and supports the regions we visit.
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What can I expect from a Crooked Compass tour that I wouldn't get from travelling with an alternative company?
Crooked Compass provides a sensory way to understand the world – we help you live like a local, eat like a local, do what the locals do and seek the faces behind the places whilst discovering untouched lands and natural beauty. Crooked Compass tours delve deep into the heart and soul of a destination ensuring you get out of your journey all you intended and much, much more. Our intriguing itineraries have been created by travellers for travellers. Steering travellers to follow a different path, Crooked Compass’ itineraries allow you to experience the world’s most fascinating destinations in ways you never dreamed possible. It brings to life those ‘bucket list’ experiences you have yearned to do and separates the travellers from the tourists. Crooked Compass tours are culturally rich, reward travellers with unexpected encounters and uncommon rendezvous, creating truly unique, authentic travel experiences.
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Who do your tours cater for?
Crooked Compass escorted small group tours cater for those who are well travelled seeking the what’s next and what’s new. Our travellers are curious minded soft adventurers who want to uncover something more than the mainstream tourist trail. Crooked Compass tours draw travellers with an interest in sustainable tourism and conservation for the areas they visit. A Crooked Compass traveller is someone who is seeking something fresh and unique, who has a yearning for authenticity and discovery, with an appreciation for cultures, tradition and the natural world. We call them Cultural Purists.
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I am concerned about my impact on travelling through untouched regions. Can I offset?
Yes. All travellers on Crooked Compass tours have the option to offset their part of their tour’s carbon footprint by donating $4AUD (tax-deductible) at time of booking. 100% of these funds are donated to Greenfleet, an environmental non-profit organisation dedicated to protecting our climate by restoring our forests. By partnering with Greenfleet, we are confident that our carbon offset program provides genuine and lasting environmental benefits. Your offset donation funds plant trees and restore permanent native forests in Australia and New Zealand. As they grow, these forests provide many community and environmental benefits by absorbing carbon emissions, protecting our unique biodiversity, restoring habitat for native wildlife, preventing soil salinity and erosion, improving water quality and much more. If you’d like to find out more and offset the rest of your carbon emissions, visit www.greenfleet.org.au
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Thursday - Friday
Sep 11, 2025 - Sep 26, 2025Book with Confidence
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Low Deposit
Crooked Compass requires a minimum deposit of 20% or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 60 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of crooked compass charges.
Up to 61 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 60 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.