Central Asia, or "The Stans", is a vast landlocked region of Asia, popular amongst travellers who want to experience one of the world' s last great frontier lands.

The Silk Road was a network of Eurasian trade routes spanning 6,400 km, linking East to West, and fostering the exchange of goods, ideas, and cultures that shaped human history. Central Asia is defined as much by its climate as by its geography. The region's aridness made agriculture difficult, and as a result, few large cities developed. Instead, the region was dominated by the nomadicmhorse people of the Steppe. Historically conquered by many warriors, the area finally fell under Stalin’s rule, where it was known as Turkestan. After independence, the five former Soviet Central Asian Republics emerged: Uzbekistan, Turkmenistan, Tajikistan, Kyrgyzstan, and Kazakhstan.

Uzbekistan shines with some of the world’s most celebrated Islamic architecture. Walking through Registan Square in Samarkand, the old town of Bukhara, and Khiva’s walled city is like exploring open-air museums of mosaics, domes, and minarets. Enigmatic Turkmenistan is unlike anywhere else, where the ultra-modern, marble-clad capital of Ashgabat contrasts sharply with the ancient ruins of Merv and Old Nissa. Few tourists make it beyond the capital, and the friendly locals are the ones taking photos – of us!

The most rugged and remote, Tajikistan is dominated by the legendary Pamir Mountains, where high-altitude landscapes meet warm village hospitality. In contrast, Kyrgyzstan is defined by its mountains and nomadic spirit. In this wild frontier, you’ll meet Eagle hunters, experience village hospitality, and dine inside yurts.Crossing more spectacular mountains into Kazakhstan, the largest and most modern country, we conclude our journey with the fantastic museums and cultural sites of Almaty.

Our journey encompasses many historic places and “storybook” destinations. Beautiful monuments, some restored and some not, museums full of ancient artifacts, colourful bazaars, stunning landscapes and wonderfully friendly locals.

INCLUDED

• Internal local flights and transportation as per the itinerary
• Twin-share accommodation
• Transfers to and from hotels as per itinerary
• Meals as listed on the itinerary
• Entry fees to places of interest as per itinerary
• All tipping, including drivers and guides
• Experienced English-speaking local tour guide/driver
• Escorted by an Australian host (subject to minimum of 10 clients)

NOT INCLUDED

• International flights to the start and end of the tour
• Electronic travel authorisation or tourist visas
• Travel insurance
• Any meals not indicated on the itinerary
• Optional excursions
• Items of a personal nature e.g. drinks, laundry, hotel charges
• Transfers to and from airports if not travelling on our group flights

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

• Tours depart with a minimum of 4 clients
• No more than 16 clients on any trip
• Tour extensions – before or after tour extensions can be arranged on your behalf
• International flights can be arranged by Blue Dot Travel
• Business or premium economy flights can be arranged at an additional cost if available
• To book and reserve your place on a tour, a deposit of $500 and a completed booking form is required

ITINERARY

TOUR MAP