Bishkek to Ashgabat

Bishkek to Ashgabat

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27 Days From

$6865

Bishkek to Ashgabat

27 Days Starting in Bishkek and ending in Ashgabat

Visiting: Bishkek, Issyk-Kul Lake, Song-Kol Lake (3016 metres), Kyzyl-Oi, Suusamyr Valley/Chychkan River/Toktogul, Osh, Border Crossing/Andijan/Tashkent, Tashkent, Bukhara, Samarkand, Tashkent/ Overnight Train, Khiva, Border crossing/ Darvaza, Ashgabat/ Nohur, Ashgabat, Merv/ Mary

Tour operator:

Intrepid Travel

Tour code:

KFSRC

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Group size:

1 - 12

Physical rating:

Medium

Age range:

1-12

Tour operated in:

English

Interests:

Cultural

From: $6865

NB: Prices correct on 05-Nov-2024 but subject to change.

This tour is no longer available, please see similar tours below or send an enquiry

Tour Overview

Be entranced by the beauty and the wonder of Central Asia on this overland journey from the capital of Kyrgyzstan through the heartland of Uzbekistan to the forgotten yet futuristic Ashgabat. Take in the tranquil landscape of Son-Kol Lake, watch for wild boar and deer around Chychkan Gorge, hike up the sacred Sulumain-too Mountain in historic Osh, and get your fill of mosques and museums in Samarkand. Venture into the mysterious Turkmenistan, watch the eternal fire from the 'Gates of Hell', and explore Ashgabat with architecture from a sci-fi movie. Abounding with ancient culture, divine natural beauty, intriguing relics and welcoming people, this is a journey that will leave you eager to discover more of Central Asia.

Highlights

  • Central Asia is a fascinating and unique mix of ancient Silk Road culture, post-soviet culture and striving to redefine nations post independence. Geographically and for a time historically, it is the real centre of Asia

  • The much-photographed Registan in Samarkand is one of the true pinnacles of Islamic architecture. You'll be wowed by the scale, grandeur and beauty of the monuments to iconic figures such as Tamerlane and the Persian influenced madressas, mosques and mausoleums

  • Experience for yourself the legend that is Central Asian hospitality - there's really nothing like being welcomed into a local home or yurt for a meal, chatting with stall holders at bazaars or simply marvelling at the sights alongside locals

  • Kyrgyzstans mountains are its monuments and its majesty. The landscapes here will stay with you long after the journey is over

  • Marvel at the beautiful Son-Kol Lake, where in mid-summer you may see flocks of sheep, goats and herds of horses watched over by nomadic herdsmen and their families

  • Stay overnight in a yurt lakeside and live like the locals have for centuries in these portable, felt lined traditional tents

  • Reflect on the important role horses have played in the traditional Kyrgyz nomadic life style while witnessing horseback sports like odarysh (wrestling on horseback), tiyin-enish (where riders try to pick up coins at full gallop) or kok-baru (goat polo)

  • Explore sprawling ruins of Mary, Merv and others with a local guide and contemplate these remnants of empires that once ruled this vast land

  • Witness the eternal flames of the Darvaza Crater, aka the 'Door to Hell' as you camp nearby – one of the strangest, most mesmerising geological oddities on earth

  • Ashgabat rose from the devastation of an earthquake in 1948 and has enjoyed a surreal and futuristic makeover

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Itinerary

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Day 1: Bishkek

Location: Bishkek

Accommodation: Hotel

Meals Included: dinner

Welcome to Bishkek! Your adventure begins with a welcome meeting at 6 pm tonight. Tomorrow you’ll take a tour of the city, so don’t stress too much if you don’t have time to see much today. Bishkek is tree-lined town of parks and gardens, handsome houses and wide streets perfect for strolling. If you arrive with time to spare, maybe head out in search of some samsa (pastry pockets filled with meat and vegetables).

Day 2: Bishkek

Location: Bishkek

Accommodation: Hotel

Meals Included: breaksfast

Embark on city tour that showcases the various stages of Bishkek’s history. Visit the severe Ala-Too Square, once known as Lenin Square, and learn about the towering statue depicting folkloric hero Manas. Continue to Dubovy Park, and wander among the open-air galleries before strolling between the century-old oaks along Freedom Avenue. In the afternoon, you'll have some free time to further explore Bishkek. Quite the contrast to the relaxed quiet streets, square and parks in the city centre, Osh Market is noisy, crowded, and a perfect peek into local life. You'll find all kinds of things on sale here, from spices and fruits to clothes and carpets.

Included Activities:
-Bishkek - City walking tour

Optional Activities:
-Bishkek - State Historical Museum

Day 3: Issyk-Kul Lake

Location: Issyk-Kul Lake

Accommodation: Tourist yurt camp

Meals Included: breaksfast, lunch, dinner

This morning, up and on the road through the beautiful landscaps of Kyrgyzstan. You'll be travelling with our vehicle for the next few days so get ready for a road trip through some pretty stunning mountains and lakes. Firstly stop at Burana Tower, a minaret that is the most visible remnant of the ancient city Balasagun. Then continue to Don Aryk and meet a local Kyrgyz family and enjoy a home-cooked lunch. Then onto the destination of today - Issyk-Kul Lake, the second-largest alpine lake in the world. At 170 - kilometres-long and 70-kilometres-wide, her beauty is a real sight to behold. Your yurt camp for tonight is set up along the south shore of the lake where you'll get a fantastic view of the snow-capped mountains setting behind the lake. Made of felt and tarpaulins on a round frame, yurts are the traditional dwellings of the Kyrgyz people and this will be your 'settlement' for today and tomorrow.

Included Activities:
-Shamsy Valley - Burana tower
-Don Aryk - Kyrgyz family visit and home-cooked lunch

Day 4: Issyk-Kul Lake

Location: Issyk-Kul Lake

Accommodation: Tourist yurt camp

Meals Included: breaksfast, lunch, dinner

With relaxed plans for today, you'll head out to Kyzyl Tuu - known for yurt making. Almost every family here is a yurt making and the village is known far beyond Kyrgyzstan. You'll visit an artisan family who’ll teach you more about their traditional yurts. With a special workshop, you’ll learn the basics of how these nomadic dwellings have been manufactured and how they play an important role in the community here. Enjoy a free afternoon and evening, relax in your yurt camp, jump into the lake, take a hike or sit back and watch the world goes by.

Included Activities:
-Issyk-Kul Lake - Yurt workshop

Day 5: Song-Kol Lake (3016 Metres)

Location: Song-Kol Lake (3016 metres)

Accommodation: Tourist yurt camp

Meals Included: breaksfast, lunch, dinner

Back on the road and travel to Song-Kol Lake, another alpine stunner that is considered a sacred place to many Kyrgyz people, as well as one of the best summer pastures for nomadic herders. On the way, stop at Kochkor to visit the local market and a women's felt co-op. The landscape today will change depending on the season but is sure to be beautiful no matter when you travel. In the summer you might see nomadic herdsmen and their families watching over goats, sheep, and horses. Enjoy exploring your surroundings for the rest of the day, maybe hiking one of the many trails. Tonight, fall asleep in yurts set up along the shore. Tomorrow, those daring enough for an invigorating morning splash can use the lake to wash off the sleep.

Included Activities:
-Kochkor - Market
-Kochkor - Women's Felt Co-op

Day 6: Kyzyl-Oi

Location: Kyzyl-Oi

Accommodation: Guesthouse/Homestay

Meals Included: breaksfast, lunch, dinner

Travel along gravel roads to the tiny village of Kyzyl-Oi, which is squeezed between mountains. On the way, pass large coal deposits and travel along the Kokomeren River, which feeds into the Syr Darya. Enjoy a picnic lunch on the banks of the river in the shade of the trees and use your free time to explore the village on arrival. In the evening, learn how the locals cook their favourite snack - Boorsok.

Included Activities:
-Kyzyl-Oi - Boorsok Cooking Demonstration

Day 7: Suusamyr Valley/Chychkan River/Toktogul

Location: Suusamyr Valley/Chychkan River/Toktogul

Accommodation: Guesthouse/Homestay

Meals Included: breaksfast, lunch, dinner

Get ready for a full-day of driving though big, beautiful landscapes. As the roads in Kyrgyzstan see little regular maintenance, even short distances on a map can take hours. The road crosses the Suusamyr Valley – a high steppe plateau situated at around 2200 metres above sea level. The mountainous surroundings are often dotted with yurts. Continue along the Chychkan River that cuts through the Tien Shan mountain range. Stop here for a while and soak up the amazing scenery. Arrive at tonight's accommodation which is part of the local community based tourism network in Toktogul sometime in the early evening.

Day 8: Osh

Location: Osh

Accommodation: Hotel

Meals Included: breaksfast

After breakfast, get ready for another all-day journey to Osh, the second-largest city in Kyrgystan. Stop en route at Uzgen, an ancient trading town and handicrafts centre along the Silk Road. Although much of the ancient city has been destroyed, a minaret and three mosques that have survived remain important examples of medieval Central Asian architecture. Continue to Osh. Located in the Fergana Valley in the south of the country, Osh is often referred to as the 'Capital of the South' and is the oldest city in the country.

Included Activities:
-Uzgen - Uzgen Minaret & Complex

Day 9: Osh

Location: Osh

Accommodation: Hotel

Meals Included: breaksfast

Rise and shine for a visit to the only World Heritage site in Kyrgystan, the Sulaiman-Too Sacred Mountain, also known as Solomon's Throne. For centuries Silk Road travellers have sought out the mountain's caves and their petroglyphs in the belief that they would be blessed with longevity or healthy children. Visit the National Historical and Archaeological Museum Complex. In the afternoon, enjoy some free time in Osh. Perhaps visit the Jayma Bazaar, where you might pick up an interesting souvenir or two. Or maybe take a self-guided tour of the remnants of Osh's soviet past with a walk to the giant Lenin statue in the city square.

Included Activities:
-Osh - Sulaiman-Too Mountain
-Osh - National Historical and Archaeological Museum Complex

Optional Activities:
-Osh - Bazaar - Free

Day 10: Border Crossing/Andijan/Tashkent

Location: Border Crossing/Andijan/Tashkent

Accommodation: Hotel

Meals Included: breaksfast

This morning, drive to Kyrgyz-Uzbek border, which is just outside of the city. Transfer to Andijan and board a local train to Tashkent (approximately 5.5 hours). The train is a great place to meet locals, so don’t be surprised if people want to chat to the chet ellik (foreigner). Arrive in the evening and check into the hotel.

Day 11: Tashkent

Location: Tashkent

Accommodation: Hotel

Meals Included: breaksfast

Begin your introduction to Uzbekistan by exploring the capital today. Follow your leader on a city walking tour - explore Amir Timur square at the city center, then hop on the metro and lose yourself in the exciting Chorsu Bazaar, browsing traditional wooden cradles, handmade musical instruments, and the extensive vegetable and spice markets. Enjoy a free afternoon and maybe go and visit the Khast Imom complex, a restored series of religious buildings (including a mosque) and a library containing an ancient Qur’an, parts of which have been dated to the ninth century, or simply relax and enjoy some well deserved downtime after a busy journey in Kyrgyzstan.

Included Activities:
-Tashkent - Chorsu Bazaar
-Tashkent - Amir Timur Square

Day 12: Bukhara

Location: Bukhara

Accommodation: Hotel

Meals Included: breaksfast

Travel to Bukhara by train this morning. Located on the ancient Silk Road, Bukhara was an important regional and world hub for many, many years and has a long, fascinating history featuring invasions by both Genghis Khan and the Soviet Red Army. Explore this fascinating city with your tour leader on an orientation walk after arrival and head to the Lyabi-Haus area, a busy 17th-century plaza with hundreds-years-old trees and there is time to wander the small craft studios tucked into the nearby madrasas and trading domes.

Day 13: Bukhara

Location: Bukhara

Accommodation: Hotel

Meals Included: breaksfast

Enjoy a day of sightseeing in beautiful Bukhara. First visit the Sitorai Mohi Khosa, once the summer residence of the last Emir. Designed by Russian architects, it has interiors decorated with traditional filigree plaster, mirrored surfaces and delicate floral wall paintings by local artisans, then visit the Ark Fortress, the symbol of Bukhara before getting to one of Central Asia's oldest and most exquisite structures, the tenth-century Ismail Samani Mausoleum, the superb decorative brickwork of which has survived 1000 years of rugged history. Enjoy a free afternoon to explore this ancient Silk Road town. Maybe visit Bolo Haus Mosque, Chor Minor, Kalon Mosque and Minaret, or Ulukbek Madrassah and Abdulaziz Khan Madrassa.

Included Activities:
-Bukhara - Sitorai Mohi Hosa Palace
-Bukhara - Ismail Samani Mausoleum
-Bukhara - Ark Fortress

Optional Activities:
-Bukhara - Kalon Minaret & Mosque

Day 14: Samarkand

Location: Samarkand

Accommodation: Hotel

Meals Included: breaksfast, dinner

Have a free morning to yourself for some further exploration of Bukhara. In the late afternoon,transfer to the station for train to fabled Samarkand. This city is located at the very centre of the ancient Silk Road. Arrival early evening and follow your leader on a short city orientation walk and maybe an optional dinner together.

Included Activities:
-Samarkand - Leader-led orientation walk

Day 15: Samarkand

Location: Samarkand

Accommodation: Hotel

Meals Included: breaksfast

Enjoy a tour of Samarkand. First up is the central square called the Registan, which features mosques and mausoleums that are true pinnacles of Islamic architecture. Continue to Guri-Amir, where Tamerlane is buried, and then the enormous Bibi-Khanum Mosque. Visit Shak-i-Zinda, a necropolis that features a series of gleaming blue-tiled mausoleums. This sacred site has monuments from the 14th–19th century, reflecting the development of the monumental art and architecture of the Timurid dynasty onwards. It is photo worthy at every turn, just remember to be respectful as pilgrims visit the complex. In the evening, you’ll visit a local family to learn the secrets of plov cuisine during a cooking demonstration in the evening.

Included Activities:
-Samarkand - Bibi-Khanym Mosque
-Samarkand - Registan Square
-Samarkand - Shakh-I-Zinda
-Samarkand - Gur-e-Amir Mausoleum
-Samarkand - Plov cooking demonstration & family visit

Optional Activities:
-Samarkand - Afrosiab Museum
-Samarkand - Ulugbek's Observatory

Day 16: Tashkent

Location: Tashkent

Accommodation: Hotel

Meals Included: breaksfast

This morning, take the train back to Tashkent. Enjoy a free afternoon and why not celebrate this great adventure with an optional farewell dinner tonight?

Day 17: Tashkent

Location: Tashkent

Accommodation: Hotel

Meals Included: breaksfast

Xush kelibsiz! Welcome to the largest city in Central Asia. Tashkent blends Russian and Uzbek style, with extravagant mosques that sit alongside modern highways and Soviet monuments. Your adventure begins with an important welcome meeting at 6 pm today. If you arrive in Tashkent with time to spare, maybe take a walk to see some of the contemporary architecture that sets this city apart from other Silk Road destinations.

Optional Activities:
-Tashkent - State Museum of History of Uzbekistan
-Tashkent - Art Gallery of Uzbekistan
-Tashkent - Museum of Applied Arts

Day 18: Tashkent/ Overnight Train

Location: Tashkent/ Overnight Train

Accommodation: Overnight Train

Meals Included: breaksfast

This morning, embark on a city tour to explore Tashkent. Visit the Amir Timur Square in the city’s centre and wander the bustling Chorsu Bazaar. An impressive dome tops the main building here and the market sells everything you could imagine. Explore the decorated metro stations, which were only allowed to be photographed from 2018, and the Khast Imom Complex, which houses one of the oldest copies of Qur'an. Have some free time in the afternoon and maybe stock some snacks for your overnight train tonight.

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

Day 19: Khiva

Location: Khiva

Accommodation: Hotel

Meals Included: lunch

Arrive in Khivathis morning – many global powers have laid claim to this city over the centuries, from Khans to Silk Road traders and the Soviet Union. Get acquainted with Khiva on a city tour with your leader. See the incredible blue-tiled Kalta Minor Minaret and the Mohammed Amin Khan Madrassa. Explore the Kuhna Ark – the 'citadel within a citadel' that once housed the Khan and his family in the 17th century – then, get a view from above from the Ak-sheikh Baba Observatory. Visit the towering Islom Hoja Minaret – the tallest building in Khiva – and explore the Juma Mosque. Wander through the elaborately decorated courtyards connected by labyrinthian corridors at the Tosh-Hovli Palace and find a good spot to watch the sunset over this ancient city.

Included Activities:
-Khiva - Islom Hoja Minaret & Medressa
-Khiva - Juma Mosque
-Khiva - Tosh-Hovli Palace
-Khiva - Pahlavon Mahmud Mausoleum
-Khiva - Kuhna Ark

Day 20: Khiva

Location: Khiva

Accommodation: Hotel

Meals Included: breaksfast

After breakfast today, you’ll have a free day to explore Khiva at your own pace. Home to more than 60 cultural sites, medieval mosques and opulent palaces, there is plenty to see and do in this fascinatingly ancient city. Maybe head to one of the many museums, check out the souvenir shops or wander around one of the craft studios. If you’re not sure where to go and what to see, just ask your leader for tips!

Day 21: Border Crossing/ Darvaza

Location: Border crossing/ Darvaza

Accommodation: Yurt Camp

Meals Included: breaksfast, dinner

A long travel day today. This morning, say goodbye to Uzbekistan and cross the border into Turkmenistan. After border formalities, you’ll meet your new leader and head on to Dashoguz. When you arrive, visit a local bazaar and stretch your legs. Then, switch into 4WDs and drive on to Derweze – this village in the middle of the Karakum Desert is famous for ‘The Gates of Hell’ – this gas crater is an astounding 70-m-wide, 30-m-deep pit permanently aflame and formally known as the Darvaza Crater. Soviet oil prospectors started drilling in 1971 expecting to find oil, and the ground collapsed. Worried about the gas released into the air, they deliberately set the crater on fire to burn off the excess, expecting it to last a few weeks. As you’ll see today, they were wrong, and the crater has been burning ever since. When you arrive, take a walk around the crater and learn about the flora and fauna of the desert. Watch the sunset over the flames from your nearby yurt camp and enjoy a picnic dinner

Included Activities:
-Darvaza - "Door to Hell" Crater

Day 22: Ashgabat/ Nohur

Location: Ashgabat/ Nohur

Accommodation: Guest House

Meals Included: breaksfast, dinner

Drive to Nohur Village via Ashgabat today, through the desert and into the Kopet Dag Mountains that separate Turkmenistan from Iran. On the way, you’ll stop to stretch your legs and take photos with visits to a mud crater, a water crater and the Yerbent Nomad Village. When you arrive in Ashgabat, stop for lunch and change to minibuses for the dusty winding roads to Nohur Village. When you arrive at your guesthouse in the afternoon, you’ll watch how the locals weave Keteni – a homespun silk fabric. Maybe take a walk to see the graves, marked by the horns of mountain goats, and along the shepherd’s trails that pass by waterfalls and swimming holes. Tonight, you’ll have a traditional dinner home-cooked by your hosts.

Included Activities:
-Yerbent - Village visit

Day 23: Ashgabat

Location: Ashgabat

Accommodation: Hotel

Meals Included: breaksfast

Enjoy a traditional breakfast in the guesthouse this morning, then head out to learn more about the village lifestyle of local Turkmen tribes. You’ll meet with the residents here who are a part of the Nohur ethnic group, who consider themselves to be descendants of Alexander the Great. Wander around the tribes’ cemetery, overgrown and equipped with the mountain goat horns, and learn about the peoples’ customs, traditions and spirituality. After, visit Gyz Bibi Cave – a place of local pilgrimage. See an 800-year-old Cynar tree – more than 800 years old tree, then say goodbye to the village and head on to Ashgabat. Along the way, you’ll visit a local horse breeder’s farm for a cooking demonstration of Baursaki. Watch the process of frying the dough in oil, then maybe try it out for yourself! Watch how their bread is cooked in a tandoor (a mud oven), then sit down with your host to enjoy some of the treats as you learn about his family and his passion for Akhal-Teke horses – this breed of horse is specific to the region and have a reputation for their speed, endurance, intelligence and distinctive metallic sheen. Later, continue to Ashgabat, where you’ll spend the night.

Included Activities:
-Nohur - Village walking tour
-Geokdepe - Horse breeder visit with bread & snack cooking demostration

Day 24: Ashgabat

Location: Ashgabat

Accommodation: Hotel

Meals Included: breaksfast

Take a full day to wrap your head around this desert city on an immersive guided tour. First, visit the ancient settlement of Nisa, built in the 3rd century BC. See the Halk Hakydasy Memorial Complex, built to honour those killed in the Battle of Geok Tepe in 1881, in World War II and in the 1948 earthquake. Then, head out of town to the ruins of Anau. The crumbling remains of the 15th century medieval mosque still attracts the devout, who come to pray and make offerings. Wander the Russian Bazaar to see locals doing their daily shopping and maybe taste some samosas, doner-kebabs and sweet melon! See the local Turkmen’s handmade souvenirs and maybe choose something special to bring home. This afternoon, take in the four-pointed martinets of the Ertugrul Gazi Mosque. You’ll then have some free time to relax and recharge before an evening visit to the monuments of Archabil Street, including the Neutrality Arch.

Included Activities:
-Ashgabat - Anau ruins
-Ashgabat - Neutrality Arch
-Ashgabat - Ertugrul Gazi Mosque
-Ashgabat - City tour
-Ashgabat - Nisa ruins
-Ashgabat - Russian Bazaar

Day 25: Merv/ Mary

Location: Merv/ Mary

Accommodation: Hotel

Meals Included: breaksfast

Rise and shine for the drive to Mary (pronounced ‘Mah-rih’) – the somewhat ostentatious displays of wealth in this city can be traced to the long-running gas and cotton industries. When you arrive, settle into your hotel, then head out to wander through the lively bazaar with your leader. Take drive out to Merv, also known as Margiana or Margush, and enjoy some time exploring Turkmenistan's most recognised site. This sprawling UNESCO World Heritage site is home to numerous walled structures from various periods spread across a 1200-hectare area. See impressive columns smoothed by wind and time at the Greater Kizkala and walk hills that were once the fortress walls of Erk Kala. While not the most impressive visually, Gyaur Kala dates to 400 BC and has a fascinating history. Spend some time exploring these relics of grand empires, then return to Mary for some free time. Maybe visit the Mary Regional Museum. Housed in a palace of white marble, the museum features archaeological displays and exhibitions on traditional Turkmen life and culture.

Included Activities:
-Merv - Sultan Sanjar Mausoleum
-Merv - Erk Kala & Gayur Kala
-Merv - Big & Small Kizkala

Day 26: Ashgabat

Location: Ashgabat

Accommodation: Hotel

Meals Included: breaksfast

This morning after breakfast, head out to see the local Orthodox Church and take some more time wandering around Mary’s city center, before returning to Ashgabat – the City of White Marble. Arrive late afternoon and head out again as the sun goes down to walk along the promenade with your group. Maybe find somewhere for dinner and celebrate your final night on this incredible adventure.

Included Activities:
-Mary - City tour

Day 27: Ashgabat

Location: Ashgabat

Meals Included: breaksfast

With no further activities planned, your trip comes to an end today after breakfast. If you need help with organising a transfer to the airport, just speak to your leader.

What's Included

  • Accommodation
    Guesthouse/Homestay (3 night), Hotel (18 nights), Yurt (4 nights), Overnight train (1 night)

  • Bishkek - City Tour

  • Shamsy Valley - Burana tower

  • Tokmak - Dungan family visit and home-cooked lunch

  • Issyk-Kul Lake - Yurt workshop

  • Issyk-Kul Lake - Eagle Hunter Visit

  • Uzgen - Uzgen Minaret & Complex

  • Osh - Sulaiman-Too Mountain

  • Osh - National Historical and Archaeological Museum Complex

  • Tashkent - Chorsu Bazaar

  • Tashkent - Amir Timur Square

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What's Not Included

  • International Travel

  • Tipping and Gratuities

Included Activities

  • Bishkek - City Tour
  • Shamsy Valley - Burana tower
  • Don Aryk - Local home visit & horsemanship demonstration
  • Kochkor - Market
  • Kochkor - Women's Felt Co-op
  • Uzgen - Uzgen Minaret & Complex
  • Osh - Sulaiman-Too Mountain
  • Osh - National Historical and Archaeological Museum Complex
  • Tashkent - Chorsu Bazaar
  • Tashkent - Khast Imom Complex & Moyie Mubarek Library Museum
  • Tashkent - History Museum of the People of Uzbekistan
  • Samarkand - Bibi-Khanym Mosque
  • Samarkand - Gur-e-Amir Mausoleum
  • Samarkand - Shakh-I-Zinda
  • Samarkand - Registan
  • Samarkand - Paper making workshop & home cooked lunch
  • Shakhrisabz - Ak Saray Palace
  • Shakhrisabz - Kok-Gumbaz Mosque
  • Shakhrisabz - Dor-ut Tilovat Memorial Complex
  • Shakhrisabz - Dorus Saodat Complex
  • Bukhara - Ismail Samani Mausoleum
  • Bukhara - Sitorai Mohi Hosa Palace
  • Bukhara - Chor-Bakr Necropolis
  • Bukhara - Ark Fortress
  • Bukhara - Kalon Mosque
  • Vobkent - Minaret
  • Gijduvan - Ceramics workshop
  • Khiva - Pahlavon Mahmud Mausoleum
  • Khiva - Kuhna Ark
  • Khiva - Islom Hoja Minaret & Medressa
  • Khiva - Juma Mosque
  • Khiva - Tosh-Hovli Palace
  • Darvaza - "Door to Hell" Crater
  • Konye-Urgench - City tour
  • Yerbent - Village visit
  • Ashgabat - National Museum of Turkmenistan
  • Ashgabat - Nisa ruins
  • Ashgabat - Anau ruins
  • Ashgabat - Independence Monument
  • Ashgabat - Neutrality Arch
  • Ashgabat - Turkmenbashy Ruhi Mosque & Family Mausoleum of the First President of Turkmenistan
  • Ashgabat - Ertugrul Gazi Mosque
  • Merv - Big & Small Kizkala
  • Merv - Erk Kala & Gayur Kala
  • Merv - Sultan Sanjar Mausoleum

Transport

  • Private Bus , Metro , Train , Overnight Train

Accommodation

  • Accommodation is clean and simple. You'll mainly stay in small, locally-run, 2-3 star hotels and guesthouses, which reflect the character of the area,generally these will be a twin room with private facilities. Sometimes you'll stay in larger, more comfortable hotels or occasionally rustic accommodation with basic facilities. We use a variety of accommodation on most trips; chosen for their value for money, location and atmosphere. We also try and incorporate unique accommodation experiences, such as a night with a local tribe, or sleeping under the stars in the desert.
  • HOMESTAYS:
  • Please note that at our homestays you might be required to share a room with people of other genders, or with your leader. Because we stay at real people's homes, beds might be pull-out couches or mattresses on the floor, or even a yurt in their backyard. Some of the accommodation along the way is very basic, staying in local guesthouses, yurts and homestays with limited facilities. Some facilities are shared and some accommodation has cold water only or no bathroom facilities.

Important Information

  • 1. A single supplement is available if you’d prefer not to share a room on this trip. The single supplement excludes Days 3 to Day 7, Day 18 (overnight train), Day 21 (Yurt) & Day 22 (Guesthouse) where you will be in shared accommodation and is subject to availability. Please speak to your booking agent for further information.
  • 2. This is a multi-country trip. Please read the visa section of the Essential Trip Information carefully for the visa requirement. Turkmenistan visa requires a letter of invitation to be organized no later than 3 months before your trip.
  • 3. Independent travel is not allowed in Turkmenistan. If you have pre trip accommodation booked with us, you won't be allowed to leave your hotel without a guide in Ashgabat. Please consult with your booking agent if you need to book post-trip accommodation in Ashgabat.

Mode of Transport

  • Private Bus , Metro , High Speed Train , Overnight Train

Check out our Q&As

  • Is this trip right for you

    Central Asia is a remote destination, perfect for intrepid travellers in the true sense of the word! You will venture well away from cities, right off the beaten track and be able to immerse yourself in local food, life and culture.

    There is one night of camping on this trip. This is, of course, all part of your adventure in the Karakum Desert. Sleeping bags, mattresses and tents are provided, but there are no facilities at the campsite.

    Accommodation may on occassion be more basic than what you are used to in homestays, guesthouses and yurt stay, usually in multishare arrangement. Shower and toilet facilities will be limited in some places and shared. While the comfort level won't always be high, the rewards of living in true local style in this far-out part of the world are immeasurable.

    This is an overland journey, so there will be some very long days of travelling and driving, often over rough terrain. This can be tiring at times and will require a great deal of patience at others, especially at border crossings.

    Tourism is strictly controlled in Turkmenistan, with Letters of Invitation needed in advance in order to apply for your visa (which you can then get on arrival) and guides tending to be protective of what tourists see and fiercely proud of their nation and its leaders. Those used to more freedom of exploration and tour guides with a more global perspective may find their experience here different from in other destinations. Please see the ‘Passport and visas’ section of the Essential Trip Information for more details.

  • What policies are in place for Covid-19?

    Please contact us for latest COVID-19 policies

  • How long has the tour company been trading?

    Intrepid Travel has been taking travellers around the world for over 30 years

  • Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?

    Yes

  • What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?

    Since 2002, The Intrepid Foundation has supported over 130 organisations across the world. We’re creating positive impact through the joy of travel, community and connection.

  • Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?

    Over 50% of traveller travel solo with Intrepid. You can choose to share a room with another solo travelle of the same sex for no additional charge, or choose to pay a single supplement if you’d like your own room. Please request this when booking, and we will secure you a single supplement wherever possible. Please note, if you are booking a last-minute trip, it may be harder for us to secure a single room

Reviews of this operator

Maroochy Dazza (Google Reviewer)  

Just leaving a review to...

24-Aug-2023

Just leaving a review to share how much I enjoyed my Central America trip. I thought the guide, Aura was so knowledgeable and organised and clearly a great ambassador for Intrepid. She gave us lots of information on each region, helped us organise anything we needed and dealt with queries from passengers very well and diplomatically. She made the trip run smoothly. She was also keen to explain the Intrepid vision and how the company values making a difference to locals and is a credit to your company. I did Guatemala and beyond and thoroughly enjoyed it - very fast paced, lots to see and do and a great overview of the region. I would definitely recommend 👍

LivvyGrace 4 (Google Reviewer)  

I just completed my first...

15-Jul-2024

I just completed my first Intrepid tour which was 33 days travelling around Central America - I had the time of my life! It was great to have the benefit of a guide (Fluffy was amazing!) and be able to ask questions at any point, but I also liked the freedom that you were permitted throughout. The group tour made boarder crossings seamless and the whole process felt easy - there was never one hiccup. As a solo female traveller, I felt safe throughout, and I cannot recommend Central America enough - the people, the food, the sun and the activities were just amazing :) Can't wait to book my next adventure soon!

V Open (Google Reviewer)  

I have just come back...

26-Oct-2022

I have just come back home after doing Intrepid's 10-day Vietnam Express Northbound tour. What a SUPERB tour. We saw lots and did lots, it was jam-packed full of sights and activities. Our tour leader, Tam, was the best ever. Very knowledgeable, organised and lots of fun too. The other 10 people on the group were all lovely. The places we visited were very interesting. We even visited local homes and ate just like the local people do. I highly recommend Intrepid to anyone considering touring a new country. This was my 5th tour with them and they have consistently been fantastic.

Jack Edwards (Google Reviewer)  

I have travelled with Intrepid...

03-Jun-2024

I have travelled with Intrepid a number of times now and can't recommend them enough. The trips are always exciting, full of history and immersive in the culture and environment. The office staff are great too and always happy to help with any questions you might have. Everywhere I have gone with the company has been different but the guides and itinerary have always been excellent and full of knowledge and passion for their country. Add in the social responsibility angle the company has and it top quality ethical practice and you can't go wrong

Jo Clayton (Google Reviewer)  

I recently went on an...

15-Mar-2024

I recently went on an 11 day tour of India with Intrepid and was impressed with every aspect of the tour, the tour leader and the organisation behind the scenes. I always travel alone so it was a big deal to join a tour, I didn't want to feel less independent or ferried about. I loved being part of a group and the things we saw and did on the tour, I would never have known about or seen if I had been by myself. I loved it from start to finish. Yes the overnight trains were not easy to sleep on, but I managed. Meeting locals on board was a high light for me. English is widely spoken in India and its amazing who you strike up a chat with. I had two problems on the tour - one my own fault and one hotel related. The support from Intrepid was amazing. I cannot thank them enough for going the extra mile to support me. I recommend Intrepid 100% and have gone from thinking an organised tour is for people who don't know about Lonely Planet and can't do solo stuff, to realising its a faster, better, more fun way to get to know a country truly and deeply whilst on a bit of a budget. I will book again and again with Intrepid. I loved it that much! Big thanks to tour leader Daddy H. Devender for his help on day one, and Nick in the Oz office for his fab customer care skills. Also the person who staffed the emergency whatsapp in India - you saved my sanity helping me get there a day late! THANK YOU ALL X

Nicole  

North American Adventure

12-Oct-2021

This was my first international solo trip, but I never felt “alone” - there was always someone to go shopping, hike, or grab a quick bite with. The itinerary was a great balance between organized activities, while still allowing free time for exploring. Each location was unique and charming in its own way. Spending the night in the holy city of Moulay Idriss and wandering the winding streets of Chefchaouen were especially memorable. Thank you Mustapha and Intrepid for an incredible adventure!

Alice Norton (Google Reviewer)  

I have just completed a...

29-Feb-2024

I have just completed a 12 day food tour of Vietnam, and had an amazing time. Our tour leader was great, knowledgeable and kind, who helped throughout the trip with recommendations for places on our free days, and spas. All the food we tried was delicious. It is a very fast paced tour, and Bon tried to maximise our experiences for the best.

Henry Guy Robinson   United Kingdom

Cambodia Discovery

22-Jan-2024

The overall experience was fantastic. V good tour leader. All places visited had something special to do or see. I would book a tour with this company again. Only one negative tour hub is not I repeat not available to contact direct by phone.

Merouane Harkat   Uk

Explore Southern Africa

08-Mar-2024

Best trip ever was, 2 things I didn't like the black mamba stop was wasting day and village ,so 2 night I think was just wasting, I could do 2 days in Kruger, and one more night in delta

Alan Perrott (Google Reviewer)  

We had a fantastic time...

13-Aug-2024

We had a fantastic time on the Botswana Highlights tour recently. We chose Intrepid because it seemed to suit what we wanted - well planned itinerary, small group, comfortable without being overly luxurious (and pricey), and supportive of the local community and environment. We weren't disappointed, and as we met with other like-minded travellers then we all had a great time. We are already planning our next Intrepid tour - maybe Vietnam & Cambodia :-)

1 Select your preferred date

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$7210

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$6865

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Apr 18, 2025 - May 14, 2025
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Friday - Wednesday

May 02, 2025 - May 28, 2025
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Friday - Wednesday

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Friday - Wednesday

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Friday - Wednesday

May 23, 2025 - Jun 18, 2025
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Tuesday - Sunday

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Tuesday - Sunday

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Friday - Wednesday

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Tuesday - Sunday

Aug 19, 2025 - Sep 14, 2025
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Friday - Wednesday

Aug 22, 2025 - Sep 17, 2025
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Friday - Wednesday

Sep 12, 2025 - Oct 08, 2025
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Friday - Wednesday

Sep 19, 2025 - Oct 15, 2025
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Tuesday - Sunday

Sep 23, 2025 - Oct 19, 2025
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Friday - Wednesday

Sep 26, 2025 - Oct 22, 2025
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Tuesday - Sunday

Sep 30, 2025 - Oct 26, 2025
$7445

Friday - Wednesday

Oct 03, 2025 - Oct 29, 2025
$7170

Friday - Wednesday

Oct 10, 2025 - Nov 05, 2025
$6865

Friday - Wednesday

Apr 03, 2026 - Apr 29, 2026
$7210

Friday - Wednesday

Apr 17, 2026 - May 13, 2026
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Friday - Wednesday

Apr 24, 2026 - May 20, 2026
$7210

Friday - Wednesday

May 01, 2026 - May 27, 2026
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Friday - Wednesday

May 08, 2026 - Jun 03, 2026
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Friday - Wednesday

May 15, 2026 - Jun 10, 2026
$7530

Friday - Wednesday

May 22, 2026 - Jun 17, 2026
$7530

Tuesday - Sunday

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$7495

Friday - Wednesday

May 29, 2026 - Jun 24, 2026
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Tuesday - Sunday

Jun 09, 2026 - Jul 05, 2026
$7530

Friday - Wednesday

Aug 07, 2026 - Sep 02, 2026
$7210

Tuesday - Sunday

Aug 11, 2026 - Sep 06, 2026
$7530

Friday - Wednesday

Aug 14, 2026 - Sep 09, 2026
$7815

Friday - Wednesday

Aug 21, 2026 - Sep 16, 2026
$7815

Friday - Wednesday

Sep 11, 2026 - Oct 07, 2026
$7815

Friday - Wednesday

Sep 18, 2026 - Oct 14, 2026
$7815

Tuesday - Sunday

Sep 22, 2026 - Oct 18, 2026
$7815

Friday - Wednesday

Sep 25, 2026 - Oct 21, 2026
$7815

Tuesday - Sunday

Sep 29, 2026 - Oct 25, 2026
$7815

Friday - Wednesday

Oct 02, 2026 - Oct 28, 2026
$7530

Friday - Wednesday

Oct 09, 2026 - Nov 04, 2026
$7210

Book with Confidence

  • Free Date Changes

    Intrepid Travel allows you to make 10 free date changes, as long as the change is made at least 56 days before the start of the tour.

  • Transfer as credit to Future Tours

    Intrepid Travel allows you to transfer existing payments to a future tour to avoid cancellation fees if you can't travel and inform intrepid travel, 56 days before departure.

  • Low Deposit

    Intrepid Travel requires a minimum deposit of 400 USD per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 56 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of intrepid travel charges.

    Up to 56 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

    At 55 days before tour starts: Forfeit 30% of booking price.

    At 30 days before tour starts: Forfeit 60% of booking price.

    At 14 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.

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