Central Asia Explorer

  • Days 61
  • Style Original
  • Travellers rating

    based on 78 reviews

  • azerbaijan

    86°F

    86°F

  • From HKD 11250 +

Start

11 Mar 2017

Finish

17 Mar 2017

OR
HKD 11250 +
Tour Code:810897

Journey from beautiful Bishkek to culture-packed Tashkent

Be entranced by the beauty and the wonder of Central Asia on this 16-day tour from the capital of Kyrgyzstan to the heartland of Uzbekistan. Take in the tranquil landscape of Song-Kol Lake; watch for wild boar and deer around Chychkan Gorge; see a three-storey yurt in historic Osh; and get your fill of mosques and museums in Samarkand. Abounding with ancient culture, divine natural beauty, intriguing relics and friendly locals, this is a journey that will leave you eager to discover more of Central Asia.

Schedule & Pricing Details

  • Date
  • Start

    11 Mar 2017

    Finish

    17 Mar 2017

    OR
  • Options

Attention

Camping ( 20 nights )
hotel / hostel /lodge /cabin ( 59 nights )

  • Highlights

    Location

    City:azerbaijan

    Name:Journey from beautiful Bishkek to culture-packed Tashkent

    Address:azerbaijan

    Tel: 00852-21210230

    Itinerary

    Day

    1

    Information:
    joining
    Xianyang

    Border Information: if joining in Xi'an, you will most likely enter China at Xi'an Xianyang International Airport (IATA code: XIY). Welcome to the amazing city of Xi'an, the ancient capital of Shaanxi province and the end of the 'Silk Road'! We will have a free day to explore the city, it's famous walls, bell and drum towers, pagodas and Muslim Quarter. There will be a group meeting today at 6:00pm - please look out for a note from your tour leader at the hotel reception with more information about this important meeting. Please note that many of the options listed below will only be possible for those with extra time in Xi'an before the start of your trip with us - please contact the Sales team if you would like to book pre-tour accommodation with us to have extra time exploring Xi'an. In Xi'an we will stay in a comfor...

    Day

    2

    morning
    world-famous
    Terracotta

    This morning we head out of Xi'an on the truck to the site of the world-famous Terracotta Warriors, where we have an included visit and a guided tour. We will return to Xi'an for the afternoon, where we'll have a free afternoon to further explore this incredible city.  INCLUDED ACTIVITIES  Explore the world-famous site of the Terracotta Warriors, an army of 8000 life-size figures built to protect the Emporer Qin Shi Huang in the afterlife : Included in Kitty

    Day

    3

    " Today
    Pingliang
    holiest

    " Day 3 to 4 " Today we will drive to the small town of Pingliang at the base of the Mount Kongtong, one of the holiest mountains in Chinese Taoism. Estimated Drive Time - 5-6 hours (please note that all drive times given here are the approximate number of hours that the truck will be in motion only, and does not include any time taken for coffee or lunch stops, border crossings, photo stops, activities en route, comfort breaks, shopping stops, toilet stops, etc. The times given are approximate estimates only and whilst given with the best of intentions, the drive times are heavily dependent on traffic, road conditions, weather, police roadblocks, and many other factors - flexibility is essential on any overland trip!). On the following day we will have an included visit to Mount Kongtong, and will have the full day to expl...

    Day

    4

    chaotic
    capital
    evening

    Today we will head to the chaotic capital city of Gansu province, Lanzhou. We will have some free time this evening to explore the city. In Lanzhou we will stay in a comfortable hotel. Estimated Drive Time - 5-6 hours.

    Day

    5

    " Today
    enchanting
    Tibetan

    " Day 6 to 7 " Today we set off to the enchanting Tibetan town of Xiahe where we spend the next 2 nights. We will have an included visit to the incredible Bingling Si Buddha Caves en route. Estimated Drive Time - 4-6 hours. The next few days are free to explore this beautiful town and surrounding grasslands. We can take a guided visit to the Labrang Monastery where Tibetan monks can be seen doing their daily rituals and chants. There may also be a chance to go trekking, horse riding or exploring the surrounding grasslands, visiting Tibetan families and perhaps trying the local Yak butter tea. In Xiahe we will stay in a local Tibetan-owned hotel.  OPTIONAL ACTIVITIES  Visit the beautiful Labrang Monastery in the Tibetan town of Xiahe, a major pilgrimage centre for Tibetan Geluk Buddhists : CNY 40 Head out for a day of...

    Day

    6

    included
    incredible
    Bingling

    Today we will leave Xiahe behind us to reach the small city of Liujiaxia. We will have an included visit to the incredible Bingling Si Buddha Caves en route. In Liujiaxia we will stay in a basic local hotel. Estimated Drive Time - 3-4 hours.  INCLUDED ACTIVITIES  See the vast Buddha statue and the outstanding Buddhist cave sculptures at the fabulous Bingling Si gorge : Included in Kitty  About Bingling Si: Bingling Si is a fabulous Buddhist grotto site along the Yellow River - the site is full of carvings and Buddhist artwork, including the centrepiece Maitreya Buddha statue, a 27m-tall statue dug into the cliff. The grottoes began construction in 420 CE and were added to continuously until the 15th Century. There are over 180 small caves and nearly 700 statues on the site (not all of which are open to the public), th...

    Day

    7

    incredible
    Zhangye
    Rainbow

    Today we will drive to the incredible Zhangye Danxia Rainbow Mountains - we'll spend some time exploring the region before heading off to wild camp nearby. Estimated Drive Time - 7-9 hours.  INCLUDED ACTIVITIES  Explore the incredible and colourful natural phenomenon of the Zhangye Danxia Rainbow Mountains : Included in Kitty About Zhangye: Zhangye is famous for the phenomenal Zhangye Danxia rock formations - created by the same tectonic movement that created the Himalayas, the landscape is a rainbow of different coloured rocks, the result of deposits of sandstone and minerals over the last 24 million years. The layer cake of coloured rocks has been sculpted by erosion, producing hills and ravines in the most remarkable patterns! 

    Day

    8

    continue
    journey
    included

    Today we continue our journey with a drive to Jiayuguan, where we will have an included visit to the Jiayuguan Fort - the most western point of the Great Wall of China. Please note that the Great Wall here is abode, unlike the more famous stone sections further east. We will wild camp near an adobe section of the Great Wall near Jiayuguan. Estimated Drive Time - 3-4 hours.  INCLUDED ACTIVITIES  Visit the magnificent Jiayuguan Fort, the Ming Dynasty fortress that marks the western end of the Great Wall of China : Included in Kitty About Jiayuguan: The fort at Jiayuguan marks the far western end of the Great Wall of China - this was one of the first parts of the Great Wall to be built by the Ming Dynasty in 1372 CE, located at a vital pass on the ancient Silk Road. The fort was at a strategically vital position for defe...

    Day

    9

    " Today
    continue
    journey

    " Day 11 to 12 " Today we will continue our journey westwards to reach the city of Dunhuang. Estimated Drive Time - 5-6 hours. On the following day we will have an included visit to the awe-inspiring Mogao Buddha Caves in the morning. We will then have a free afternoon to explore this amazing town and it’s surroundings - there are possibilities for camel rides along the sand dunes and bicycle rides out to the nearby White Goose Pagoda! In Dunhuang we will stay in a comfortable hotel. INCLUDED ACTIVITIES  Explore the awe-inspiring Mogao Caves, a series of temples containing some of the finest Buddhist art spanning a period of a thousand years : Included in Kitty OPTIONAL ACTIVITIES  Hire bikes to explore the historic town of Dunhuang : CNY 20  Visit the Crescent Moon Lake near Dunhaung, built around a series of sa...

    Day

    10

    " Today
    Estimated
    Please

    " Day 13 to 14 " Today we will have an early start and a big drive to the oasis town of Turpan. Estimated Drive Time - 10-12 hours. Please note that sometimes it may be preferred by the group and the leader to split this drive over 2 days, wild camping in between - in this case we will have 1 less night in Pingliang towards the beginning of the trip. On the following day we will have a free day to exploring the surrounding sites including the famous Jiaohe ruins. In Turpan we will stay in a local hotel. INCLUDED ACTIVITIES  Explore the fascinating ruined natural fortress of Jiaohe, the seat of several rulers from 100BCE until it's eventual invasion by Genghis Khan : Included in Kitty Learn about the Karez water system, the ingenious method of irrigating the area that was developed by the Han Dynasty and allowed Tur...

    Day

    11

    " Today
    continue
    Heavenly

    " Day 15 to 16 " Today we will continue on to Heavenly Lake, a beautiful lake set in the Tian Shan mountains. Estimated Drive Time - 5-6 hours. We will stay here for 2 nights, and will have many opportunities to relax in the incredible scenery and walk around the lake. In Heavenly Lake we will stay in local yurts with very basic facilities. INCLUDED ACTIVITIES  Enjoy a tranquil yurt stay at the beautiful Heavenly Lake : Included in Kitty  About Heavenly Lake: Ürümqi is the capital of the western province of Xinjiang, and just south of one of the region's most beautiful spots - the aptly-named Heavenly Lake. This is a dazzling deep blue lake set in the dry mountains, providing some excellent walking and boating opportunities

    Day

    12

    " Today
    journey
    continues

    " Day 17 to 18 " Today our journey continues west wards through the Taklamakan Desert. Our crossing of the desert usually takes 3 days/2 nights, and we plan to wild camp near Korla or Bayanbulak on our first night and near Aksu on our second.  Please note that occasionally the police insist that we do not camp in times of political tension - in this case we will stay in local hotels in the small towns en route. Estimated Drive Time - 8-10 hours each day. 

    Day

    13

    " Today
    complete
    journey

    " Day 19 to 21 " Today we complete our journey to the far west of China, arriving in Kashgar, once one of the ancient trading posts on the Silk Route! Estimated Drive Time - 7-9 hours. We will spend 3 nights in Kashgar, during which time there will be lots of opportunity to explore the city and its central Id Kah Mosque. We will also have an included visit to the animal market just outside of town, and then the famous Kashgar Sunday Bazaar. In Kashgar we will stay in a hotel with good facilities.  INCLUDED ACTIVITIES  Explore Kashgar's vast Sunday market and the fascinating and atmospheric animal market : Included in Kitty OPTIONAL ACTIVITIES  Visit the Id Kah Mosque, the finest example of Islamic architecture in Kashgar and the centre of religious life in the city : CNY 20 Discover the history of the ancient Sil...

    Day

    14

    everyone
    continuing
    predeparture

    For everyone that is continuing with us to Kyrgyzstan, there will be quick predeparture meeting in the early morning in order to explain the next 6 days until Bishkek, and your leader will collect the kitty for this linking section. Today we will set off on a stunning journey along the Karakoram highway to Lake Karakol. The drive takes us up past some truly incredible mountain scenery and underneath a few 7000m peaks, including Mustagh Ata. Near Lake Karakol we will stay in local nomadic yurts, sleeping 6-8 people per yurt. Provisions here are very basic, but the scenery is incredible and it is an interesting glimpse into the way of life of the local Uighurs. Estimated Drive Time - 7-8 hours. Hotel for the night: Seman Hotel Seman Hotel 37 Kash City Seman Road Kashgar Xinjiang Province China Tel - +86 998 255 2129 I...

    Day

    15

    morning
    Karakol
    starting

    This morning we have a chance to spend a little time at Lake Karakol before starting our journey back along the beautiful mountain road to Kashgar. The evening will be free to explore the old town. In Kashgar we will stay in a comfortable hotel. Estimated Drive Time - 7-8 hours.  OPTIONAL ACTIVITIES  Visit the mausoleum of the 17th-century religious leader Afaq Khoja, considered the holiest site in Xinjiang Province : CNY 15 Discover the history of the ancient Silk Road at Kashgar's Silk Road Museum : CNY 15 Explore Kashgar's vast Sunday market and the fascinating and atmospheric animal market : Free Visit the Id Kah Mosque, the finest example of Islamic architecture in Kashgar and the centre of religious life in the city : CNY 20 

    Day

    16

    Information:
    Kyrgyzstan
    Today

    Border Information: Exit China at Torugart, enter Kyrgyzstan at Torugart. Today we will have a full day drive over the 3752m Torugart Pass into the magical mountain kingdom of Kyrgyzstan! We will head just over the border to Tash Rabat, once a key staging post on the Silk Road close to the KyrgyzstanChina border. During our time here we will visit an ancient caravansary and have some time to explore the surrounding area. In Tash Rabat we will wild camp. In cold weather (or if simply the group prefers and there is availability), we may choose to stay in local nomadic yurts that are set up for guests near the caravansary, sleeping 8-10 people per yurt. Estimated Drive Time - 5-6 hours. INCLUDED ACTIVITIES  Visit the ancient Silk Road caravansary at Tash Rabat, close to the Kyrgyzstan-China border : Included in Kitty Cro...

    Day

    17

    village
    traditional
    Whilst

    Today we drive to the small village of Kochkor, where we stay in local family run guest houses and enjoy traditional Kyrgyz hospitality! Whilst here we will visit a small museum and women's felt making cooperative that produces 'shyrdaks', the felt carpets for which Kyrgyzstan is renowned. We may also have the opportunity here to see some excellent local musicians playing traditional Kyrgyz folk music and to see how a yurt is put up!  In Kochkor we will stay in family-run guest houses, accommodating up to 8 guests in each home.  Estimated Drive Time - 4-5 hours. Please note that if nobody from this group is leaving in Bishkek, we may choose to stay instead in a guest house in the small town of Naryn (a 2-3 hour drive from Tash Rabat). This is so that we don't repeat Kochkor unnecessarily on the next section and can have...

    Day

    18

    capital
    remainder
    explore

    Today we have a short drive to Bishkek, the capital of Kyrgyzstan. The remainder of the day is free to explore the relaxed and atmospheric city. In Bishkek we will stay in a comfortable hotel with good facilities. Estimated Drive Time - 3-4 hours (from Kochkor). About Bishkek: Bishkek is the relaxed capital of Kyrgyzstan, and it has a pleasant laid-back atmosphere. The city centres around Ala-too Square, previously known as Lenin's Square under the previous Soviet regime. Lenin used to stand in his concrete overcoat in the middle of the square, proudly gesturing towards the mountains.  A pleasant place to watch the world go by is Dubovy (Oak) Park, where you'lll find a few open air cafes, a perfect spot to sit and have a drink and soak up the atmosphere. The century-old oaks here and all along Freedom Avenue make Bishke...

    Day

    19

    Information:
    joining
    Kyrgyzstan

    Border Information: if joining in Bishkek, you will most likely enter Kyrgyzstan at Bishkek Manas International Airport.  There will be a pre-departure meeting at 10:00am - please look out for a note from your leader at the reception of the joining hotel upon arrival with more details about this important meeting. Your leader will need to carefully check your visas at this initial meeting. The rest of the day is free for you to explore this relaxed and atmospheric city.  In Bishkek we will stay in a comfortable hotel with good facilities. *Important note - do not bring any medicines containing tramadol, codeine, temazepam, morphine or opiates to Central Asia. These are illegal in all circumstances in most of Central Asia and you will risk arrest. If in doubt about a particular medicine, please do not bring it. See the not...

    Day

    20

    Uzbekistan
    Embassy
    opening

    " Day 28 to 29 " The next 2 days will need to be fairly flexible. Many of the group will apply for Uzbekistan visas in Bishkek. However, the Uzbek Embassy opening times will often vary and therefore our itinerary will need to remain flexible over the next 2 days to accommodate this. As a general guide, we will most likely spend our first night camping in stunning mountainous Ala Archa National Park near to Bishkek. We will then return to Bishkek on Day 3 in order to submit our visa applications. Once this is process is complete we will continue to Chong Kemin National Park, where we will have free time to explore and hike in this beautiful area, or to get involved in an optional white water rafting excursion if time allows. In Chong Kemin and Ala Archa we will wild camp. If it is too cold or simply preferred by the group, ...

    Day

    21

    northern
    Issyk-Kul
    ancient

    Today we will drive to the northern shore of Lake Issyk-Kul and visit the ancient petroglyphs at Cholpon-Ata. We will then continue to the Russian-style town of Karakol, where we will have a free evening to explore and relax!  In Karakol we will stay in a decent local hotel. Estimated Drive Time - 7-8 hours.  About Karakol: Originally a Russian military outpost built in 1869, Karakol quickly grew in the 19th Century as explorers arrived to map the mountains and valleys of the area, and Chinese Muslims fled warfare in China. For many years the town was names Przhevalsk, in honour of a Russian explorer who died there in the 1880s, but has been known as Karakol since independence.  Karakol is a picturesque town surrounded by orchards and mountains, with a delightful Russian church and gracious colonial houses on tree-lined...

    Day

    22

    " Today
    mountains
    trekking

    " Day 31 to 32 " Today we drive up into the mountains to the alpine trekking region of JetiOghuz.  The next day we will have a free day to hike in the incredible scenery here, or take an optional horse ride with some of the local nomads!  In Jeti-Oghuz we will camp close to a local family yurt.  Estimated Drive Time - 5 hours. Please note that on trips in the low season we may not be able to camp in JetiOghuz due to low temperatures. If this is the case, we will take a stunning and incredible drive up a mountain in a Russian 4x4 truck to Altyn Arashan, a hot spring development in a stunning alpine setting, staying in dormitory accommodation. We will then stay for 1 night in a local hotel at the base of Jeti-Oghuz Valley (allowing time for some day walks).  About Jeti Oguz Valley: Seven spectacular red sandstone cliffs...

    Day

    23

    village
    traditional
    included

    Today we drive to the small village of Kochkor, where we stay in local family run guest houses and enjoy traditional Kyrgyz hospitality! En route we will have an included demonstration from a local 'eagle hunter'. Whilst here we will visit a small museum and women's felt making cooperative that produces 'shyrdaks', the felt carpets for which Kyrgyzstan is renowned. We may also have the opportunity here to see some excellent local musicians playing traditional Kyrgyz folk music and to see how a yurt is put up!  In Kochkor we will stay in family-run guest houses, accommodating up to 8 guests in each home. Estimated Drive Time - 7 hours

    Day

    24

    " Today
    incredible
    Song-Kul

    " Day 34 to 35 " Today we will drive to the incredible Song-Kul Lake, where we will spend the next two nights.  We will have free time here to explore the area, and to enjoy some optional activities including hiking, horse-riding or watching a game of goat polo!  At Song-Kul we will stay in traditional felt yurts.  Estimated Drive Time - 6-7 hours. Please note that trips during the low season will not be able to visit Song-Kul Lake, as temperatures will be below freezing, the road will be snowed over, and there will be no yurts to stay in! Instead we will likely stay in yurts on the southern shore of Lake Issyk-Kul.  About Song Köl Lake: Song Köl lake is one of the most spectacular spots in central Kyrgyzstan. All around the lake are lush pastures favoured by local nomadic herders, who come here in the summer with ...

    Day

    25

    landing
    through
    stunning

    " Day 36 to 38 " We will spend the next 3 days over landing through the stunning and remote Kyrgyz Ferghana Valley, stopping often to admire the views and perhaps take some impromptu hikes in the hills and countryside. During these days we plan to wild camp en route. Please note that trips running in low season (May to mid-June and October to November), we may not be able to camp if temperatures are too low, in which case we will stay in local guest houses along the route instead.  Drive times - 4-8 hours per day.

    Day

    26

    complete
    Arslanbob
    Ferghana

    Today we will complete our drive to Arslanbob in Kyrgyzstan's Ferghana Valley - if we have had a slow journey in the previous days with lots of stops, we may choose to stay in the closer town of Jalalabad instead. In Arslanbob we will stay overnight in a local family-run guest house. Estimated Drive Time - 6-7 hours. 

    Day

    27

    information:
    Kyrgyzstan
    Uzbekistan

    Border information: Exit Kyrgyzstan at Dustlik, enter Uzbekistan at Andijon.  Today we will have a full day's drive across the Uzbek border to the eastern city of Ferghana.  In Ferghana we will stay in a basic local hotel. Estimated Drive Time - 8 hours.  About Fergana City: Similar to the Uzbek capital Tashkent, Fergana is a modern city, far-removed from the ancient Silk Road cities of Bukhara and Samarkand. The town is located in the Fergana Valley, a broad bowl thousands of kilometres wide surrounded by far off mountain peaks. Nearly 90% of people who live here are indigenous Uzbek's and the communities here are typically very welcoming and hospitable. A very fertile area, the land is highly cultivated and used to produce fruit and vegetables and cotton. The textile industry thrives here and there are some exceptiona...

    Day

    28

    morning
    transport
    opportunity

    This morning we travel in local transport to Kokand, where we will have the opportunity to visit the Khudayar Khan's Palace and the nearby Margilan Silk Factory before completing the journey over the Kamchik Pass to Tashkent, the Uzbek capital. The truck must pass over the Kamchik Pass without passengers and will rejoin us this evening in Tashkent.  In Tashkent we will stay in a comfortable hotel with good facilities. Estimated Drive Time - 6 hours.  About Tashkent: Whilst the historic cities of Samarkand, Bukhara and Khiva still retain much of the atmosphere of the ancient Khanates, Tashkent is very definitely a Soviet city, because old Tashkent was largely destroyed by a series of earthquakes and Soviet planners. Having said that, it is still a great place to visit - the city has a clean, modern feel and there is some ...

    Day

    29

    Information:
    joining
    Uzbekistan

    Border Information: if joining in Tashkent, you will most likely enter Uzbekistan at Tashkent International Airport.  There will be a pre-departure meeting at 10:00am - please look out for a note from your leader at the reception of the joining hotel upon arrival with more details about this important meeting. Your leader will need to carefully check your visas at this initial meeting. We will then have a free afternoon to explore the Soviet city of Tashkent.  In Tashkent we will stay in a comfortable hotel with good facilities. *Important note - do not bring any medicines containing tramadol, codeine, temazepam, morphine or opiates to Central Asia. These are illegal in all circumstances in most of Central Asia and you will risk arrest. If in doubt about a particular medicine, please do not bring it. See the notes at the ...

    Day

    30

    journey
    fascinating
    ancient

    Today our journey begins will a drive to the fascinating ancient city of Samarkand where we will stay for the next 3 nights. In Samarkand we will stay in a good hotel on the outskirts of town.  Estimated Drive Time - 5-6 hours (please note that all drive times given here are the approximate number of hours that the truck will be in motion only, and does not include any time taken for coffee or lunch stops, border crossings, photo stops, activities en route, comfort breaks, shopping stops, toilet stops, etc. The times given are approximate estimates only and whilst given with the best of intentions, the drive times are heavily dependent on traffic, road conditions, weather, police roadblocks, and many other factors - flexibility is essential on any overland trip!).  About Samarkand: A city brimming with history, Samarkand ...

    Day

    31

    " Today
    incredible
    historic

    " Day 44 to 45 " Today we will have a guided tour of the incredible historic city of Samarkand and the surrounding area, including the Registan, Ulug Beg Observatory, BibiKhanym Mosque and Shah-I-Zinda.  On our second day, we will have a free day to further explore the beautiful city and its surroundings. 

    Day

    32

    Kyzylkhum
    afternoon
    opportunity

    Today we will drive into the Kyzylkhum Desert near the town of Nurata. In the afternoon we will have the opportunity to take a swim in Lake Ajdar Kul and head out on an optional camel ride into the desert!  Tonight we will stay in a desert yurt camp.  Estimated Drive Time - 4-5 hours. 

    Day

    33

    beautiful
    Bukhara
    comfortable

    Today we will drive to the beautiful city of Bukhara, where will spend the next 3 nights. Our drive will take us via the desert town of Nurata, which we will have a brief stop. In Bukhara we will stay in a comfortable local hotel.  Estimated Drive Time - 7-8 hours. About Bukhara: Bukhara is an atmospheric city with an incredible history and a wonderful heritage - exploring the streets, you really get the feeling that this is how Central Asia was before Soviet domination.  Bukhara was once a very powerful Khanate, controlling most of Turkmenistan and the surrounding area. Many of the buildings here are spectacular and very well-preserved, particularly the Ark Fortress, Ismail Samanid Mausoleum and the famous Kalyan Minaret (also known as the Death Tower). The government has invested a considerable amount of money into the...

    Day

    34

    " Today
    Bukhara
    surrounding

    " Day 48 to 49 " Today we will have a guided tour of Bukhara and the surrounding area, including the Ismail Samani Mausoleum, Kalon Mosque, Zindon Prison and the Ark Fortress.  On our second day here, we will have a free day to further explore this incredible historic city and its surroundings. 

    Day

    35

    " Today
    incredible
    historic

    " Day 50 to 51 " Today we have a full day drive to the incredible historic town of Khiva.  Estimated Drive Time - 10-11 hours.  On the next day, we have a guided tour of the ancient city of Khiva during the morning. In the afternoon we will have plenty of free time to further explore this wonderfully preserved Khanate town.  In Khiva we will stay in a comfortable hotel.  About Khiva:  The small historic town of Khiva in Uzbekistan was once the capital of the Khwarezmid Empire, one of Central Asia's most powerful states in the 12th Century CE until they were invaded by Genghis Khan in 1220 CE. Khiva once again rose to prominence as the centre of the Khanate of Khia between 1500 CE and 1924, when the area was fully incorporated into the Soviet Union. The city's long history is fascinating, and fortunately much of the ...

    Day

    36

    Information:
    Uzbekistan
    Turkmenistan

    Border Information: Exit Uzbekistan at Nijazov, enter Turkmenistan at Shovot.  This morning we will drive across the border into Turkmenistan, visit the markets in the border town of Dashoguz, and explore the Kunye Urgench ruins towards the end of the day.  We will wild camp in the deserts near Kunye Urgench tonight.  Estimated Drive Time - 5-6 hours (heavily dependent on the time taken to cross the border).  About Kunye Urgench: Kunye Urgench is one of Turkmenistan's most important historic sites, and was once a major city along the Silk Road. Situated on the shores of the Amu Daria River, the area has been settled since the 5th-Century BCE and came to prominence under the rule of the Persian Khwarezem Empire in the 11th Century CE. The city managed to flourish even after Genghis Khan's invasion of 1221, only being fin...

    Day

    37

    continue
    through
    Karakum

    Today we continue south through the Karakum Desert. We will have an included side trip to the amazing flaming Darvaza Gas Crater (also known as the 'Door to Hell'!).  We will wild camp in the deserts near Darvaza Crater tonight.  Estimated Drive Time - 7-8 hours.  About Darvaza:  Darvaza is a tiny settlement in the Karakum Desert of Turkmenistan, which is the location of one of the world's more unusual highlights - the flaming Darvasa Gas Crater, sometimes dramatically called 'The Door to Hell'. The crater formed as a result of an industrial accident - Soviet oil prospectors started drilling in 1971 expecting to find oil, and when only gas was found underneath the ground collapsed to form the crater. Worried about the gas released into the air, they deliberately set the crater on fire to burn off the excess, expecting th...

    Day

    38

    complete
    interesting
    capital

    Today we will complete our drive to the interesting capital of Ashgabat, usually arriving mid-afternoon. There will hopefully be time to explore one of the city's museums upon arrival. In Ashgabat we will stay in a decent quality local hotel. Estimated Drive Time - 6 hours. About Ashgabat:  Ashgabat is a unique modern city that has been extensively rebuilt since the country gained independence in 1991. Little is left of the original Russian Imperial city as most of it was destroyed in a massive earthquake in 1948, and today the city centre is a bizarre mix of futuristic and outrageous public buildings that are an extraordinary sight - these include many ornate marble buildings and extravagant golden statues of the president.  Ashgabat's Sunday Market is famous along the whole Silk Road - this wonderful market stretches fo...

    Day

    39

    Information:
    joining
    Turkmenistan

    Border Information: if joining in Ashgabat, you will most likely enter Turkmenistan at Ashgabat International Airport (IATA code: ASB).  There will be an important group meeting at 10:00am - please look out for a welcome note from your tour leader when you arrive at the joining hotel in Ashgabat. In the afternoon we have the option of visiting the famous Ashgabat Sunday Market. Please note that many of the options listed below will only be possible for those with extra time in Ashgabat before the start of your trip with us - please contact the Sales team if you would like to book pre-tour accommodation with us to have extra time exploring Ashgabat. In Ashgabat we will stay in a comfortable hotel with good facilities. *Important note - any tobacco products are practically illegal in Turkmenistan, so please do not bring them...

    Day

    40

    included
    Ashgabat
    afternoon

    Today we will have an included tour of the city of Ashgabat using local minibuses. The afternoon will be free to freely explore Ashgabat and its museums.  OPTIONAL ACTIVITIES  Learn about the history and culture of Turkmenistan at the huge National Museum in Ashgabat : USD 10

    Day

    41

    morning
    further
    explore

    This morning we have some time to further explore Ashgabat. This afternoon we will drive to the spectacular Kow Ata Underground Lake. We will have some time this afternoon to explore this superb lake of naturally-heated clear water. Tonight we will wild camp in this area of Kow Ata or Geok Tepe.  Estimated Drive Time - 3-4 hours (please note that all drive times given here are the approximate number of hours that the truck will be in motion only, and does not include any time taken for coffee or lunch stops, border crossings, photo stops, activities en route, comfort breaks, shopping stops, toilet stops, etc. The times given are approximate estimates only and whilst given with the best of intentions, the drive times are heavily dependent on traffic, road conditions, weather, police roadblocks, and many other factors - flexib...

    Day

    42

    " Today
    complete
    Caspian

    " Day 58 to 59 " Today we will complete our drive to the city of Turkmenbashi, on the shore of the Caspian Sea.  Estimated Drive Time - 6-8 hours. Our itinerary in Turkmenbashi and over the Caspian Sea must remain very flexible and is very much determined by sailing times of the local ferries. Please note that there is no regular schedule for the ferries, they are notoriously unpredictable, and information from the ferry operators regarding the sailing times constantly changes (or is non-existent) up until the point of departure. Maximum flexibility, open-mindedness and co-operation with your tour leaders are absolutely essential here!  In Turkmenbashi we will stay in a local hotel for as many nights as is needed until we finally depart on the ferry over the Caspian Sea. Most trips tend to be able to set off on the ferry ...

    Day

    43

    Caspian
    fantastic
    ferries

    From Turkmenbashi, we will take the ferry across the Caspian Sea to Baku in Azerbaijan. The ferry is a fantastic local experience, but please do not expect any luxury whatsoever! These ferries are budget vessels for the locals and cargo hauliers, and are not designed with tourists in mind. We must be prepared for very basic conditions and limited provisions on board. Please also note that the time that the ferry takes to cross is also highly unpredictable, as it is often forced to wait outside of the port in Baku while they arrange the unloading of the cargo on the boat.  There will be basic cabins on the ferry overnight. INCLUDED ACTIVITIES  Cross the Caspian Sea on a local transporter ferry between Turkmenbashi and Baku : Included in Kitty 

    Day

    44

    " Border
    information:
    Turkmenistan

    " Day 61 to 62 " Border information: Exit Turkmenistan at Turkmenbashi, enter Azerbaijan at Baku.  Today we plan to disembark the Caspian ferry and enter Azerbaijan We will have free time on these days to explore all the sights of Baku and the surroundings.  In Baku we will stay in a local hotel. Please note that we have built in significant time in the above itinerary to allow for delays with the Caspian ferry. If the ferry comes in earlier than this, we may choose to move on from Baku earlier than listed to allow more time exploring the rest of Azerbaijan and Georgia.  INCLUDED ACTIVITIES  Take an audio-guided walking tour of Baku's Old Town : Included in Kitty  Explore the mysterious and iconic Maiden's Tower in Baku's Old Town : Included in Kitty  Learn all about the Shirvan Muslim history of Baku at the Palac...

    Day

    45

    continue
    journey
    Caspian

    Today we will continue our journey to Gobustan, near the coast of the Caspian Sea. Whilst here we will visit the ancient petroglyphs and the mud volcanoes that this area is famous for. In Gobustan we will wild camp near the mud volcanoes, or continue further and wild camp en route. Estimated Drive Time - 2-3 hours.  INCLUDED ACTIVITIES See the fascinating 40,000-year-old rock petroglyphs of Gobustan, showing depictions of life during the Late Stone Age : Included in Kitty Visit the small mud volcanoes in the hills above Gobustan, once a central part of the Zoroastrian religion that flourished here : Included in Kitty About Gobustan: Gobustan is a small area on the Azeri coast of the Caspian Sea, which is famous for its petroglyphs and mud volcanoes. The region's ancient petroglyphs date back to the 12th-Century BCE and ...

    Day

    46

    continue
    exquisite
    Palace In

    Today we will continue to the old town of Sheki, where we can visit the exquisite Khan's Palace In Sheki we will stay in a comfortable hotel built inside an old caravansary.  Estimated Drive Time - 5-7 hours INCLUDED ACTIVITIES  Spend the night in an atmospheric converted 17th-century Caravansary in Sheki : Included in Kitty Explore the exquisite Palace of the Sheki Khans, built in 1797 : Included in Kitty About Sheki: Sheki is a beautiful old town in northern Azerbaijan that has been settled since around 700 BCE. Having been occupied by many different civilisations throughout its history, it has a fascinating array of architecture and culture, and contains one of the best preserved caravanserais on the Silk Road. 

    Day

    47

    information:
    Azerbaijan
    Georgia

    Border information: Exit Azerbaijan at Balakan, enter Georgia at Ladodekhi. Today we will continue our journey east and cross the border into Georgia. We will wild camp tonight, most likely in the Lagodehki National Park shortly after crossing the border.  Estimated Drive Time - 3-4 hours. OPTIONAL ACTIVITIES  Discover the ancient capital of the 16th-century Kingdom of Kakheti at the Gremi Architectural Complex : GEL 2 Take some short exploratory walks around our wild camp in the beautiful forested Lagodekhi National Park : GEL 5 

    Day

    48

    Alazani
    ourselves
    explore

    Today we will drive to the Alazani valley and on to Telavi, where we will base ourselves for 2 days to explore this fascinating region. We will visit the Gremi citadel en route, and have a free afternoon on arrival in Telavi to explore the area. In Telavi we will stay in a local family-run guesthouse.  Estimated Drive Time - 2-3 hours. About Telavi: Telavi is the capital of the wine-growing region of Kakheti and is situated in the valley of Alazani, near the Gombori Mountains. Telavi is a charming place and has fine views of the Caucasus Mountains. Nearby we visit the 6th Century Shaumta Monastery, which is beautifully located on an isolated forested hilltop.  There are hundreds of different grapes grown here, and every village has its own particular variety - we will hopefully see some of the local traditions, includin...

    Day

    49

    vineyards
    wineries
    hundreds

    The area of Telavi is well known for its vineyards and wineries - there are hundreds of different grapes grown here, and every village has its own particular variety. We will visit some of the local vineyards today, where we can hopefully see some of the local traditions including grape harvesting and wine making, and enjoy some famous Georgian hospitality.  INCLUDED ACTIVITIES  Head out on Telavi's 'Big Day Out' - a tour of the town's monasteries, bee-keepers and textile weavers, followed by lunch and wine tasting at a local family-run winery : Included in Kitty 

    Day

    50

    complete
    journey
    Georgian

    Today we will complete our journey to the Georgian capital of Tbilisi, where we will have an afternoon to freely explore the city.  In Tbilisi we will stay in a comfortable hotel.  Estimated Drive Time - 2-4 hours. About Tbilisi: The Georgian capital of Tbilisi is very historic - it was founded in the 5th Century CE, and by the 12th-Century it had become a very important cultural and economic centre. Its geographical position gave it a lot of control over the Silk Road, and hence it became a regional superpower. The Old City is full of churches and ancient wooden houses, and it's easy to spend a day wandering around this charming city. It is also worth visiting the oriental markets and making a visit to the Narikala Fortress, which dominates the city's skyline. 

    Day

    51

    information:
    joining
    Georgia

    Border information: if you are joining in Tbilisi, you will most likely enter Georgia at Tbilisi International Airport. There will be a pre-departure meeting at 10:00am - on arrival please look out for a note from your leader with more information about this important meeting.  This afternoon we will visit the old town of Tbilisi and visit sites including the National Museum, Sioni Cathedral and the Metekhi Temple. In Tbilisi we will stay in a comfortable hotel with good facilities.  *Important note - do not bring any medicines containing tramadol, codeine, temazepam, morphine or opiates to Central Asia. These are illegal in all circumstances in most of Central Asia and you will risk arrest. If in doubt about a particular medicine, please do not bring it. See the notes at the bottom for more details.*  Hotel for the nig...

    Day

    52

    journey
    beautiful
    spectacularly

    Today our journey begins with a beautiful drive to the spectacularly located town of Kazbegi. Either this afternoon or tomorrow morning, we will take a trek up to the Tsminda Sameba Church (the Church of the Holy Trinity), a beautiful small church nestled in the mountains. In Kazbegi we will stay in a local hotel or family-run guest house. Estimated Drive Time - 4 hours (please note that all drive times given here are the approximate number of hours that the truck will be in motion only, and does not include any time taken for coffee or lunch stops, border crossings, photo stops, activities en route, comfort breaks, shopping stops, toilet stops, etc. The times given are approximate estimates only and whilst given with the best of intentions, the drive times are heavily dependent on traffic, road conditions, weather, police r...

    Day

    53

    morning
    Tsminda
    afternoon

    We spend this morning in and around Kazbegi, where we can trek to the Tsminda Sameba Church if we haven't done so already. This afternoon we have a beautiful drive to the UNESCO world heritage site of Mtskheta, the ancient capital of Georgia. Whilst here we will explore the 11th century Svetitskhoveli Cathedral.  We will stay overnight in a local guest house Estimated Drive Time - 5 hours  

    Day

    54

    morning
    birthplace
    ancient

    This morning we drive to Gori, the birthplace of Stalin - here we will have a guided tour of the city and the Stalin Museum.  We then make our way to the ancient town of Kutaisi. This afternoon we will visit the medieval Bragrati cathedral and the Gelati monastery. In Kutaisi we will stay in a local hotel or a family-run guest house.  Estimated Drive Time - 5 hours. About Gori: The small town of Gori is famous as being the birthplace of the brutal 20th Century dictator Josef Stalin - there is a small museum on the site of his childhood home, which houses many photographs, some documents, some furniture and gifts presented to the dictator. It also houses Stalin's death mask, and outside the museum is the railway carriage which Stalin used for 12 years. About 10kms outside the town is the cave town of Uplistsikhe, one of t...

    Day

    55

    morning
    continue
    afternoon

    This morning we will continue to the port town of Batumi, where we will have a free afternoon to explore. In Batumi we will stay in a comfortable hotel.  Estimated Drive Time - 6 hours.  About Batumi: Situated on the Black Sea coast, Batumi has the feel of a resort town, nicely situated between the sea and the green hills. It is a great place to relax, and there are plenty of cafes where you can enjoy a Turkish coffee and watch the world go by. 

    Day

    56

    Information:
    Georgia
    morning

    Border Information: Exit Georgia at Sarpi, enter Turkey at Sarp.  This morning we will continue to the border and cross into Turkey. We will reach the awe-inspiring Sumela Monastery near the town of Macka, which we will either visit in the afternoon or the next morning.  We will camp overnight in a campsite near Sumela if conditions allow. In cold weather we may opt to stay in a local hotel in Macka or Trabzon.  Estimated Drive Time - 7 hours. About Sumela: Set in the cliffs is the beautiful monastery of Sumela, which was founded in 386 CE during the reign of the Roman Emperor Theodosius I. The monastery clings to a sheer rock wall high above evergreen forests and a rushing mountain stream.

    Day

    57

    morning
    beautiful
    Monastery

    This morning we will visit the beautiful Sumela Monastery if we didn't have time yesterday, and then start our drive through central Turkey towards Göreme.  We will break the journey with a wild camp near Zara or the village of Alucra.  Estimated Drive Time - 9 hours

    Day

    58

    complete
    enchanting
    Cappadocia

    Today we will complete our drive to Göreme, a small enchanting town in the heart of the Cappadocia mountains.  In Göreme, we will stay in a well-equipped hostel - please note that dorm beds are sometimes used here.  Estimated Drive Time - 7-8 hours.  About Göreme:  Göreme is a small town in the heart of Cappadocia in Turkey. Known as the Enchanted Valley, the cones, needles and columns fashioned by nature here form a unique and surreal landscape. The area is riddled with caves, scooped out of the rock to house churches and dwellings that are known as fairy chimneys and castles. Perhaps the most interesting are the rock chapels and frescoes of Göreme, the monastic complex of Zelve and the fairy chimneys of Avcilar.  Nearby you can also see the remains of a number of underground cities, the most extensive of which h...

    Day

    59

    explore
    including
    enchanted

    " Day 77 to 78 " We now have a 2 full days to explore Göreme, including a guided tour of the enchanted valley of Cappadocia. There will be an opportunity for a magical optional balloon ride over the valley during our time here. 

    Day

    60

    straddles
    Istanbul
    accommodation

    Today we will have a full day's drive west to arrive in Istanbul, the only city in the world that straddles two continents, Europe and Asia.  In Istanbul we will stay in dorm accommodation in a fantastic hostel with good facilities, which is a 5 minute walk from the Blue Mosque.  Estimated Drive Time - 11-12 hours.  About Istanbul:  Istanbul is the only city in the world to straddle two continents, so it will come as no surprise that this vast metropolis is home to a beguiling mix of different cultures and traditions, blending the influences of both east and west.  The city has a rich and intriguing history; originally founded by Greek settlers over 2000 years ago, Istanbul originally went by the name of Byzantium, later renamed Constantinople by the Romans who made it the capital of their eastern empire. The Ottomans ...

    Day

    61

    information:
    leaving
    Istanbul

    Border information: if leaving the trip in Istanbul, you will most likely exit Turkey from Istanbul Atatürk Airport.  Today will be free to explore the many sights of the incredible exotic city of Istanbul, including the Grand Bazaar, the Bosphorus River and the phenomenal Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia! Please note that this is the final day of the trip and there is no accommodation included tonight. Please also note that some of the optional activities listed below will only be possible if you have extra time in Istanbul after the end of the trip. 

    Inclusions

    Included activities
    • Meals

      n/a

    • Transport

      Overland expedition vehicle, Jeep, Private Bus, Public bus, Russian bus, Boat, Overnight boat

    • Accommodation

      Camping ( 20 nights ), hotel / hostel /lodge /cabin ( 59 nights )

    • Insurance

      This day tour excludes fee of insurance.

    Important notes

    Q&A

    Supplier may change time and services due to a special circumstances,so all reply following are for reference only.Please note the relevant information on Web in case of change.

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