Have just returned from an amazing experience on the Stan’s Tour arranged by Patch Adventures. Wonderful organisation with attention to detail and a commitment to flexibility to adjust to the needs and interests of the group. I loved the opportunities to speak with local people in their homes about their culture and life. Of course we saw the monuments, mosques and miniarets but also got a sound knowledge of their historical significance. I learnt so much about Central Asia and thoroughly enjoyed the trip.
23 Day Silk Road & Stans Adventure dep Tashkent
Women Only
Max group 12
Lifetime Deposit
Solo traveller friendly
Special Note: We also have a ‘Bishkek to Tashkent‘ version (same trip, but in reverse).
Each ‘Stan’ is special and unique, with distinct languages, cultural traditions and landscapes. You’ll be blown away. Add to that the magic of the Silk Road history and you’ve really got an adventure.
Our concept is simple – a small group of like-minded women seeing the sights, cities, villages, deserts, and mountains worth seeing – and avoiding the tourist traps.
We’ll also make time to stop and just take it all in, and you’ll enjoy the freedom to enjoy things your way.
This trip is for genuine adventurers only. This trip does go way off the beaten path; there will be moments where you’ll be miles away from comfortable Western infrastructure. If you bring an explorer spirit, you’ll love it.
Highlights
Kyrgyzstan: Multiple hikes through jaw-dropping mountains scenery
Tajikistan: Meet masters of Tajikistan handicrafts at the Dushanbe crafts centre
Kazakhstan: Explore the city of Almaty and its rich heritage
Uzbekistan: Take in the highlights of the Silk Road and learn the history & stories
Trip Details
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Pricing Details
- $1,900 AUD deposit per person.
- 2-week cooling-off period applies.
- Lifetime Deposit. If you need to cancel, your deposit is transferable to other trips.
- Twin Share: we’ll match you with a roomie if you’re travelling solo.
- Private supplement available $2,026 AUD (max 4 spots) for those who would like to pay extra for their own private room.
- Tip Kitty: $200 USD
Please refer to our payment terms in the FAQs.
Trip length
23 days, 22 nights
Meeting point
Hotel Inspira, Tashkent
Ending point
B Hotel, Bishkek
Group size
Maximum 12
Participation requirements
Please see our “Is this trip right for you?” section to see the participation requirements
Included
- Airport transfers
- Transportation: All trains, private vehicles
- Dushanbe-Almaty flight
- English-speaking trip leader
- All meals
- All listed activities, entrance fees, and accommodation
Not included
- International flights
- Travel insurance (compulsory)
- Any visas required
- Late check-out at hotels
- Meals and drinks not mentioned in the itinerary
- Drinks with included lunches and dinners
- Tip kitty
- Personal expenditure
Our accommodation
Every step of the way, we’ve sought out fun, unique accommodation wherever possible. We’ve also got a few stops in Western-style hotels for you to refresh and regroup for the next adventure.
You’ll sleep in:
- a Kyrgyz yurt camp
- a Tajik community guesthouse
- a comfortable 4 star hotel in Tashkent, Uzbekistan
The majority of the accommodation – especially in Uzbekistan – is simple, comfortable 3 star hotels. In all cases we’ve worked hard to find the right balance of comfort and keeping the price reasonable. Just remember that when you get off the tourist trail, that means there isn’t much in the way of actual tourist infrastructure. We think that’s a good thing, but it’s not without its drawbacks…. the ‘best’ place in some of these towns can have its faults. Just come prepared!
What our Silk Road Patchies say
The 4 Stans’ trip – my expectations were high & the trip exceeded these! An amazing trip, so well organised, excellent pre-trip information & customer service from Patch. This trip provided so many authentic experiences, we had variety, flexibility, absolutely fabulous food, mini craft classes and opportunities to interact with locals. I learnt so much about Central Asia; history, culture, crafts and religions. I’d highly recommend this trip. Our amazing, knowledgeable and intuitive tour leader, Abdu brought these countries, their people & their past to life! Thank you Patch Adventures, Abdu, our guides & the amazing ‘on the ground’ team – it was an unforgettable experience.
Why Choose This Tour?
See the biggest highlights of the Silk Road and get a feel for what it was like to travel this route centuries ago
One trip leader for all countries, with local guides who speak the language in each destination!
Lots of chances to get under the tourist layer and meet real people, have genuine interactions, and eat traditional local food
Click the tabs to find out more
DAY 1: TASHKENT
All amazing adventures begin somewhere. For you, that’s Tashkent, Uzbekistan. The best way to arrive is to fly via Dubai; no matter when you arrive you’ll be met at the airport by a welcoming face who will drive you to your accommodation.
Meet the group in the hotel at 10 am for a gentle walking tour of Tashkent city and a spot of lunch. The group welcome dinner will be in one of our favourite local restaurants.
Accommodation: Hotel Inspira-S (or similar)
Included: Lunch and Dinner
DAY 2: TASHKENT CITY TOUR
Tashkent has a different vibe to most Central Asian cities, due to a huge earthquake in 1966. The city was rebuilt in the Soviet-style, as a result, designed to be a reflection of the best of Soviet town planning and architecture. Not all buildings were ruined in the quake; some did survive and the group will visit some highlights today, before taking a ride on the famous Tashkent Metro – one of the most beautiful in the world. If you thought metro stations had to be dirty and boring, well, the Uzbeks would like to have a word with you!
Following lunch, a special treat as you visit the craftsmen section of the city and meet a local artisan family, the Rahimovs. They’ll show you the inner workings of their ceramics business. A viewing of architecture and decorative arts by Uzbekistan folk artisans at the Museum of Applied Arts ends today’s exploration.
Accommodation: Hotel Inspira-S (or similar)
Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY 3: KHIVA
No visit to Tashkent is complete without a visit to Chorsu Bazaar, which you’ll do before heading off to Tashkent airport and fly out to the next adventure: two nights in the historic city of Khiva. Khiva is a UNESCO destination and a favourite of many Silk Road travellers. Smaller in scale, with just 80,000 people, it has an exceptional atmosphere that obscures its dark history.
You’ll love Khiva; a labyrinth of alleyways, blue mosaics and the standout Kalta-minor Minaret. As magical as it is today, the Khiva of old was a local slave market hub. This is a reminder that the Silk Road may be magical today, but it hides many skeletons in its shadows.
Accommodation: Hotel Asia (or similar)
Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY 4: KHIVA CITY TOUR
Yesterday was an introduction to the Silk Road ‘oasis’ of Khiva. Today you’ll explore it fully! Stroll the entire exterior of the citadel before walking along the citadel walls themselves – an opportunity to observe the bustle in the city quarter below.
The afternoon is yours to do as you wish… maybe sit in the shade by the minaret sipping tea or hunt down some handmade souvenirs.
Tonight’s dinner in a madrassa will be paired with a folklore performance.
Accommodation: Hotel Asia (or similar)
Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY 5: TRANSFER TO BUKHARA
Drive through the Kyzylkum desert to Bukhara, with a lunch stop on the way.
This 7-hour journey is a relaxed way to zoom through the Uzbek countryside before arriving in the early evening to our destination. Just so you know, the major cities of the Silk Road – Samarkand, Bukhara and to a lesser extent Khiva are very much discovered. The Silk Road is quite popular! We’ll do our best to time our visits to avoid crowds but just be aware that we’re not going to be the only show in these towns.
Bukhara is home for the next two nights.
Accommodation: Hotel Amelia Boutique (or similar)
Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY 6: BUKHARA CITY TOUR
Bukhara is one of the crown jewels of the Silk Road trade route. A UNESCO-listed city, it is a zigzag of backstreets, bustling bazaars and historical monuments.
Today, you’ll view famous landmarks such as the Samanid Mausoleum (one of the most important monuments in Central Asia), the Bolo Hauz Mosque.
Next, an absolute highlight that will make you wonder whether you’re actually there or dreaming it – the Poikalon Complex with the Kalon Mosque, Minaret and the Mir-i-Arab Madrassa. This open-air plaza is teeming with merchants and local vendors.
After dinner, we’ll meet with Makshuma Niyazova, a local historian and archaeologist who received her PhD in 2007. During a short walk and over dinner, she’ll explain the rituals and history of this ancient Silk Road city. Feel free to ask her any question you like – about history, yes, but also about what life is like for a professional woman in modern Uzbekistan.
Accommodation: Hotel Amelia Boutique (or similar)
Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY 7: BUKHARA TO SAMARKAND
After breakfast today we visit Ark Citadel – Bukhara’s original fortress and a symbol of power – quite possibly more than 2,000 years old. Before lunch, we’ll meet up with Davlat Bronovich Toshev, a famous miniaturist artist.
Next, a private room awaits us in a local restaurant where we’ll be entertained by a special treat of live song and dance… so it’s more like a festive celebration than a standard lunch!
In the afternoon we hitch a ride on the comfy high-speed train to Samarkand and arrive in plenty of time for dinner in the city. On the way back from dinner, we’ll get our first glimpse of Registan Square.
Settle in now, because Samarkind is our home for the next 2 nights!
Accommodation: Hotel Sand Hill (or similar)
Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY 8: SAMARKAND CITY TOUR
Samarkand is one of the most popular cities of the Silk Road. Conquered by both Alexander the Great and Genghis Khan, this key trading post is dripping with history.
First you’ll visit the Gur-Emir Mausoleum, the burial place of Timur the nomadic conqueror, who built Samarkind as the capital of his empire. It will enable you to view the city through his eyes and appreciate the many surviving architectural examples from his era.
Registan Square is the focal point of ancient Samarkand framed by three beautiful madrassas (religious schools) – Ulugbek, Sherdor and Tillya Kori. Today will be full of exploration of this and other important local sites, accompanied by your local expert guide.
Dinner is a highlight as we join the family of Farida Apa, a local primary school teacher. She’ll teach the group how to make the local dish ‘Plov’ before we eat with her family and enjoy the evening with them.
Back in the city once more, we’ll go to bed with hearts and bellies content.
Accommodation: Hotel Sand Hill (or similar)
Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY 9: MYSTERY DAY
At Patch, we like to think that not every detail needs to be listed in an itinerary.
That’s why today is going to be a mystery day. Yes, there’ll be more exploration of Samarkand. You’ll see the most beautiful tilework in Uzbekistan, and meet with local female English language students, so expect to talk up a storm!
This is the last day in Uzbekistan and after just a week, the distractions of the West will feel like a world away.
Accommodation: Hotel SandHill 3* (or similar)
Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY 10: PENJIKENT, TAJIKISTAN
Your time in Uzbekistan may be over, but that can only mean one thing: another Stan awaits!
This morning, your group will drive to the border of Tajikistan – a country that has been described as ‘mountains upon mountains upon mountains’; you simply will not forget this! But first, you’ll need to cross the border on foot and on the other side, your specialist Tajik guide will be waiting for you!
Spend your day exploring world heritage ruins that date back to the bronze age and drive the bumpy into the mountains for a lakeside spot you’ll not be forgetting the beauty of anytime soon!
It’s been a long day, so this evening will be relatively relaxed. Unwind, over dinner with the other Patchies check your emails, and send some photos to friends and family.
Accommodation: Hotel Penjikent Plaza (or similar)
Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY 11: ISKANDER KUL
This morning your group heads deep into the Fann mountains to a lake named after Alexander the Great. Iskander Kul is set at an altitude of 2,200 metres, you’ll feel the lighter air up there. If you’re feeling like it, there’s a short hike to a nearby waterfall, or take your time and relax, soaking in the remote beauty surrounding you. Tonight’s dinner is at the cottages.
Accommodation: Simple cottages with private bathrooms
Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY 12: ISKANDER KUL TO DUSHANBE
Enjoy a leisurely breakfast and some free time this morning, until your tummy reminds you it’s lunchtime. Leaving the lake behind, continue on for a couple of hours through another winding, scenic mountain pass that this time leads to Dushanbe, Tajikistan’s capital. Dushanbe is a treasure of a city with just 800,000 people and a relaxed vibe stemming from its origins as a market village.
Dinner in a local restaurant tonight is lively, filled with music and dance.
Accommodation: Hotel Shumon (or similar)
Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY 13: DUSHANBE CITY TOUR
A local expert guide will join the group to visit Rudaki Park and a few other sights on a city tour.
Amongst the stops, the highlight for the morning is Navruz Palace. It was conceived of as a spectacular tea house, but the owners got carried away and ended up with a monument of total excess. Described by one person as ‘opulence gone wild’, it became the Presidential Palace of Tajikistan.
After lunch, you’ll meet with a stone master at the Dushanbe crafts centre. Then, a visit to a small museum of musical instruments, mostly from Tajikistan’s Pamir region. The collector and founder – Gurminj – has around 100 instruments on exhibit. Usually his son Iqbol is there to play some of them for us!
Accommodation: Hotel Shumon (or similar)
Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY 14: FLIGHT TO ALMATY
As you fly out of Tajikistan you’ll have full appreciation for Tajikistan’s rapidly growing fame for its magnificent mountain scenery.
However, the group’s flight to Almaty doesn’t depart until the afternoon, so you’ll still get to squeeze in a bit of sightseeing today. Use the opportunity to buy some dried fruits or souvenirs with a pitstop at Dushanbe’s main market.
Use the opportunity to buy some dried fruits or souvenirs as we make a pitstop at Dushanbe’s main market.
After this, it’s time to fly to Almaty, Kazakhstan, in order to spend a few days in this country.
Accommodation: Hotel Kazzhol Park (or similar)
Included: Breakfast, Dinner
DAY 15: ALMATY CITY TOUR
Almaty is the cultural and business capital of Kazakhstan. In the morning, you’ll take a tour of the city, visiting Panfilov Park and the unique Zenkov Cathedral. Today is a more relaxed day, and this afternoon, you’ll have the opportunity to meet a local dance teacher who will give you a class on traditional Kazakh dances.
Then later, perhaps you might buy some fresh fruit and veggies at the Green Bazaar. By the way, Almaty means ‘the place with apples’ (it’s thought that apples originate from here)!
Accommodation: Hotel Kazzhol Park (or similar)
Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY 16: CHARYN CANYON
Kazakhstan is the largest country by area of the Silk Road, and while it has a reputation for broad open spaces, you’ll be travelling in the picturesque mountain region of the South East.
A big road trip today through unique scenery including beautiful rock formations.
The highlight for today is a stop at Charyn Canyon – ‘Red Castles Valley’. This place makes for a great picnic lunch following a 3-km walk down to the river, before we hit the road again driving through the Kazakh steppe eastward to the border with Kyrgyzstan – the end of a very quick visit to Kazakhstan; necessarily so in order to maximise the group’s time in the final Stan of your trip.
After a long day on the road you’ll be so happy for tonight’s dinner, in Dastorkon restaurant, and then bed.
Accommodation: Hotel Amir (or similar)
Included: Breakfast, Picnic Lunch, Dinner
DAY 17: KARAKOL
There’s lots to see this morning starting in Karakol, including the wooden Russian Orthodox Church which has been standing since 1885. It’s the fourth largest city in Kyrgyzstan and has a true multicultural experience.
You’ll then visit Yrdyk village and learn about Dungan culture, an ethnic Chinese diaspora, and have lunch with an Ulghur family in their home – this is a master class, so be prepared to roll up your sleeves and dive in to help!
Meet up with a small producer of local honey before dinner, and if you’re up for it, maybe a dip in a local hot spring?!
Accommodation: Hotel Amir (or similar)
Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY 18: JETY OGUY & TAMGA
As you travel across Central Asia you’ll notice the gradual change of cultures. Kyrgyzstan is where this becomes especially noticeable, as many consider it to be the Stan that retains the strongest cultural connection to its past. A large percentage of the Kyrgyz people are still nomadic, living in yurt camps under open skies, an experience you will share over the next couple of nights. This Yurt camp has a few more mod cons, with a hot shower available.
Issyk Kul is the second-largest mountain lake in the world, and that’s where you’re headed tonight. The afternoon has a few surprises in store as you explore the beautiful Kyrgyz countryside on the way to the lake.
The hustle and bustle of the West will feel like a different universe as you contemplate the spectacular countryside, miles away from any distractions.
Accommodation: Yurt Camp (one toilet and shower per yurt, outside)
Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY 19: TAMGA
After breakfast, a short trip to Skazka (meaning ‘fairytale’) Canyons is on the cards. This unusual rocky landscape has been shaped by nature into quirky sculptures and formations. Here you’ll have the good fortune of meeting the ‘eagle hunter’, and his eagle.
The afternoon will be spent in Kaji-Sai having lunch with a local family, then getting your art on at a little museum, followed by a folkloric performance. Oh, and bring your swimsuit if you’re up for a pleasant surprise afterwards!
You may also want to warm up your vocal cords for this evening as we return to the camp for dinner….
Accommodation: Yurt Camp (one toilet and shower per yurt, outside)
Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY 20: FELT CARPETS OF KOCHKOR
Indigenous arts are flourishing in Kochkor, famous for its traditional Kyrgyz felt carpets or ‘shyrdaks’ – a sustainable souvenir. Today is a special treat as we meet the artisans behind the craft – a local women’s cooperative. Learn how these special carpets are made; they’ll even insist that you make your own to take home (no added cost)!
But first, a stop at the village of Kyzyl-Tuu, a yurt-making hub. Lunch today is a picnic, and we’re sure you’re going to love the views at this roadside spot!
Dinner and overnight at a family guesthouse, with some local stories to boot.
Accommodation: Nomad Lodge Hotel (or similar)
Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY 21:BURANA & BISHKEK
It’s now day 21 of the Silk Road trip, and today is the final day in the Kyrgyz countryside as the group travels towards Bishkek. On the way to Bishkek we’ll stop at the medieval Burana Tower – the last remnant of the historic Silk Road city of Balasagun, once the capital of the mighty Karakhanid empire.
After lunching with a local family near Burana you’re off to see a centuries-old tradition of skilled sports’ horsemanship, in a game that resembles polo. Meet the horses after the event and have a chance to snap a photo or two with them.
Accommodation: B Hotel (or similar)
Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY 22: BISHKEK
Come sit down with Aidai in her workshop this morning to produce a beautiful silk scarf of your own. Then, head out into the streets of Bishkek – your final city and a great way to finish as your group engages in a walking exploration of the local highlights and strolls around the beautiful greenery of Bishkek’s boulevards and parks. – We’ve saved some time for some last-minute shopping too!
In the evening is the farewell dinner. What an epic trip, and now time to reflect on memories and recall the highlights together as a group.
Accommodation: B Hotel (or similar)
Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY 23: FAREWELL, FRIENDS
Kyrgyz yurts. Kazakh steppes. Tajik mountains. Uzbek history. You’ve lived it for yourself and now have dozens of stories to tell. You will have witnessed each country’s precious culture, rich history and unique heritage.
And, just like Marco Polo, you are now an official veteran traveller of the Silk Road.
Many hugs and tears will most likely ensue as the group says goodbye and exchanges email addresses for the sharing of photos and organising of future trips.
And of course, if you’d like an extra night in Bishkek, we can easily sort that out for you.
Included: Breakfast
Transfer to the airport.
Trip Map
Hiking & Fitness
Fitness
You’ll need a reasonable fitness level to participate in this trip, regardless of whether to choose to hike.
If you can walk for 4-5 hours – ie 10-14km – at a moderate pace on undulating terrain, you’ll be fine. All activities are optional, meaning that if you don’t feel like it, you can skip it but it will be impossible to enjoy this trip if you’re not able to do a walking tour that lasts for a full afternoon, for example. (better to be honest!)
The longest hiking day involves 5.5 hours of walking. It’s not a race, though, and we’ll take as long as needed. If you’re not confident with your fitness, we’d recommend doing training hikes in your local area so you come to this trip ready to rock!
Is This Trip Right For You?
You love travelling and enjoying the most of your time in a country.
You don’t like being rushed or herded around B-grade attractions, but you also understand that some places are worth the wait.
You’re open minded and open hearted. You try to embrace the little things. You understand that even in the best vehicles, the air-con sometimes breaks. Even in the best restaurants, the service sometimes is slow. Or maybe one of the items on your plate is cold in the middle… etcetera.
This is just part of the adventure, and you choose to be gracious even when you find a bug in a place you weren’t expecting to.
You also know that a ‘great trip’ doesn’t have to mean sprinting from place to place. The best moments so often come when you hit the pause button, sit still, and just take it all in.
You’re young enough at heart to know that sometimes the best opportunities come when you’re least expecting it. You understand that doing things right doesn’t always mean following a strict routine.
You enjoy trying new food, visiting new places, and making new friends. You make a great travel buddy and you love to share experiences with others. You understand that to fit in with local cultures, sometimes that involves trying something you haven’t tried before, or sitting on the floor to eat with a nomad family.
Does that sound like you? I’d love to invite you to travel with us!
Frequently Asked Questions
Prior to the payment of your full balance, the final price may change if there is significant variation in the AUD:EUR exchange rate. Our trip pricing is determined by what the exchange rates are at the time of publishing the trip.
The pricing on these trips is based on the following exchange rates:
14 April 2024 departure: 1 AUD:0.66 USD
21 April 2024 departure: 1 AUD:0.66 USD
5 May 2024 departure: 1 AUD:0.66 USD
A deposit of $1,900 is required to hold your spot. Payment can be made by credit card (fees apply) or bank deposit.
There is a cooling-off period of 2 weeks.
We have implemented a ‘lifetime deposit’ guarantee. Deposits are not refundable, but they are transferable at any time, right up until the first day of the trip.
The final balance of the trip is required 95 days in advance of the departure date. Our suppliers require upfront payment well in advance to guarantee availability.
Please refer to the full terms and conditions for further information.
This is the most frequently asked question we get!
Nearly everyone is in their 50s and 60s, with some people above and below (but of course, everyone is welcome!)
Most Patchies come alone and are matched with a room-mate. Remember, you don’t need to pay for a single supplement if you come solo. We will place you with a similarly-aged roommate.
The typical Patchie has travelled a LOT, is a well-seasoned adventurer, and is not easily thrown by small things. However, many Patchies tell us that this is their first ever group tour. Many of our guests have avoided tours to this point as they’re not attracted to being herded around in large groups.
Oh, and one last thing:
Patchies are warm, generous, and kind. We knew it would be like this, but we weren’t expecting it to be *quite* like this. We’re so blessed as a business to have the customers we do; we consider ourselves to be some of the luckiest people in the world.
Airfares are not included. We recommend reaching out to a local travel agent.
There are no Visas currently required for Australian and New Zealand passport holders to visit any of the Stan countries on this itinerary.
Yes, there are two available. If you come by yourself, you will be matched with a roommate. Booking a private/single supplement is not necessary unless you want a private room.
Don’t try to bring local money. If you want to bring cash, don’t bring AUD; USD is preferred.
Our guide will assist you to change money while on the ground. In all major cities, there are ATMs where you can easily take money out! The exceptions is Tajikistan, but you’ll have ample opportunity to get cash before entering.
We’ll regularly communicate with you to let you know when you’re headed into an area without much money available.
Most of our trips have a tip kitty because many cultures have interesting and diverse rules when it comes to tips. We’ve found it to be the easiest way to combat over-tipping, under-tipping or having the tip fall into the wrong hands. Our goal is for guests to relax and know that the complexities of tipping are taken care of, on their behalf. On this trip you’ll visit four different countries with independent currencies, so for the sake of ease, we ask that you provide the amount in USD.
As your trip transitions on Day 10 to your second regional guide, we ask your contribution be:
– $110 USD given to your guide in Tashkent on Day 1
– $90 USD to your regional guide in Almaty on Day 14.
Private transport, specifically designed for Central Asia-like conditions, will be our primary mode of travel.
They are modern, spacious, comfortable, air-conditioned.
Our hand-picked local drivers are safe, experienced, and friendly.
So long as you have a general level of health and fitness, you’ll be fine. There’s no specific exercise planned for this trip, but there will be days where you’ll be walking and spending a lot of time on your feet. Daily activities may include city and countryside walks on uneven and undulating ground, as well as getting on and off various forms of transport.
All activities are optional, meaning that if you don’t feel like it, you can skip it but it will be impossible to enjoy your trip if you’re not able to do a walking tour for a full afternoon. Unfortunately, this tour cannot accommodate people requiring walking aids.
There’s no need to wear a hijab, but ladies are expected to obscure their hair when entering mosques. Please bring a lightweight scarf to loosely drape over your hair for those times. We also encourage you to dress a bit more conservatively in general. Our typical recommendation is to cover shoulders and knees. Tajikistan is more conservative than the other countries.
Feel free to bring your bathers, as there will be limited opportunities to swim.
Some days do involve long stretches of driving and you need to be the kind of person who enjoys road trips. Any such necessary long drives are offset by photo stops, picnic lunches, roadside pitstops, tea/coffee breaks, and of course seeing points of interest, leg-stretching walks.
Our vehicles are comfortable, well-maintained, and not prone to breaking down.
You’re visiting the Stans at the perfect time, with warm days and cool evenings. The potential for days over 30 is real, however, so be ready with layers. Rain showers are not uncommon; please come prepared.
On the long driving days, it’s recommended to wear blouses with long sleeves and pants for your comfort. For cool mornings and evenings, we recommend you bring at least one warm jacket or sweater, and a light sweater.
Comfortable hiking shoes are fine, no need for boots. Please be ready to dress conservatively in general but on hiking days, dress how you please.
Fixed Line Internet & Wi-Fi Internet access will be available in nearly all hotels. However, in Kyrgyzstan, it’ll be restricted to larger towns and villages which you will have the opportunity to pass through every few days. In the countryside, you’ll have little access. If you must stay in reach, speak with your guide about getting a local sim card.
YES! We can accommodate vegetarian, vegan and gluten free diets no problems, or any variation of the above. Just let us know in advance. Note: this food is often very simple and may get repetitive. We cannot cater for those with severe nut allergies. Any other medical conditions get in touch.
We recommend flying through Dubai, both for arriving to Tashkent and leaving Bishkek. If you join the Iran trip, you’ll need to organise flights to Tehran.
In the unlikely event of a health or security related incident during a trip, we’ve engaged a local partner to assist. From our experience, there is not one framework that fits all, and every incident is unique and requires a different approach. With all trips, your guides are your day-to-day support. While behind the scenes, there is an active line of communication – between your guide, the on-ground support team, and Australian Ops.
