23 Day Silk Road & Stans Adventure Dep Bishkek
Women Only
Max Group 12
Lifetime Deposit
Solo traveller friendly
5 Good Reasons To Do This Trip!
OUR FASTEST-SELLING TRIP!
More Patchies have done our Silk Road adventure than any other, with each trip filling up! Our Patchies say: “excellent value”, “lots of variety” and “the perfect length”.
PIONEERS OF TRAVEL:
You’ll wander the trade route cities and legendary caravanserai where Silk Road merchants and explorers – worldly adventurers just like you – wandered millennia ago!
FOUR MAGICAL ‘STANS’:
They may be neighbours, but you’ll love how Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan and Turkmenistan are all delightfully set apart by their cultures and landscapes.
CONNECT WITH LOCALS:
Find yourself being welcomed into family homes from beyond the tourist trail. Learn about their customs first hand while sharing a home-cooked meal as part of the family.
ANCESTRAL TRADITIONS!
Get hands-on with local artisans whose crafts trace right back to when traders moved their wares – and ideas and innovations that are still around today – between empires.
Note: Bishkek to Tashkent departures run in the northern hemisphere’s autumn. We have the same trip that runs in reverse – Tashkent to Bishkek – in the springtime.
Trip Details
| Dates | Price AUD (per person twin share) |
|---|---|
|
|
|
|
Price
- $2,150 AUD deposit.
- 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 : $2,389 AUD(max 4 spots) for those who would like to pay extra for their own private room.
Please refer to our payment terms in the FAQs.
Trip length
23 days, 22 nights
Meeting point
B Hotel, Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan
Ending point
Inspira S, Tashkent, Uzbekistan
Group size
Maximum 12
Participation requirements
Please see our “Is this trip right for you?” section to see the participation requirements
Included
- All meals
- Flights, train & private vehicle transportation
- 22 nights boutique and premium accommodation
- Bottled water for the entire duration of the tour
- Entrance fees to all sights as per itinerary
- Domestic flights: Urgench – Tashkent, Almaty – Dushanbe
- Train tickets Samarkand – Bukhara
- A top-rated and English-speaking Tour Leader
- All listed activities and more!
Not included
- International Flights and travel insurance (necessary)
- Additional hotel nights & late checkouts
- Drinks and other other personal expenses
- Tip kitty (See FAQs for more information)
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!
Click the tabs to find out more
What our Silk Road Patchies say
DAY 1: BISHKEK
All amazing adventures begin somewhere. For you, that’s Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan. No matter when you arrive, you’ll be met at the airport by a welcoming face who will drive you to your accommodation.
Meet up with your group at the hotel around 10:00 am and get to know Bishkek on a guided walk. You’ll learn more about the city’s history as part of the Great Silk Road and explore some local sights, including the many monument-filled squares, with plenty of time for a gentle stroll around the beautiful greenery of Bishkek’s boulevards and parks.
Before dinner, you’ll hear the story of a local woman entrepreneur – in her own words. And then it’s time to get to know your fellow Patchies a little better over dinner at one of our favourite local restaurants.
Accommodation: B Hotel, Kyrgyzstan (or similar)
Included: Breakfest and Dinner
DAY 2: BISHKEK
Kick off your first full day in Kyrgyzstan, learning the centuries-old craft of scarf-making with a local before getting out in nature. You’ll head up into the mountains that surround Bishkek to the Ala Archa National Park. Inhale that fresh alpine air on a walk through the forest and enjoy your lunch, with plenty of views of the gorge and Tian Shan Mountain range.
Tonight, you’ll be invited into a local Kyrgyz family’s home for dinner. Pull up your sleeves and get to work, helping the family whip up a meal that’s chock full of traditional favourites like katama bread, fried to crispy perfection and filled with savoury onions.
Accommodation: B Hotel, Kyrgyzstan (or similar)
Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY 3: BURANA
Today you’ll really start to ‘do’ Kyrgyzstan, exploring its beautiful landscapes and wonderful culture. Right from the get-go, you’ll be interacting with history, as the group stops at the medieval Burana Tower – the last remnant of the historic Silk Road city of Balasagun. Afterward, continue making your way to your final destination of the day, Chon Kemin.
Enjoy lunch at the guesthouse and some free time to mill around or rest before heading off to see a centuries-old tradition of skilled sports’ horsemanship. This game, known as kok-boru, is kind of like polo only it’s played with a goat carcass. Meet the horses after the event and snap a few photos of these highly revered steeds. After a full day of immersion in Kyrgyz culture, relax back at your cosy guesthouse with a hearty dinner. You might even be treated to local stories from your hosts!
Accommodation: Kemin Guesthouse, Kyrgyzstan (or similar)
Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY 4: ISSYK KUL
You’re off to one of the largest high-altitude lakes in the world this morning, Issyk Kul. But first, a stop at the village of Kyzyl-Tuu, a yurt-making hub! Over a tasty lunch, a local yurt-building family will share some of their secrets. The afternoon has a few surprises in store as you explore the countryside on your way to the lake. Learn more about the traditional art of shyrdak, Kyrgyz felt carpet making this afternoon in the lakeside town of Bokonbayevo.
Tonight is a very special stay. Remember those yurts you got to see up close at lunch? You’ll be sleeping in one for the next two nights! This Yurt camp has a few more mod cons than some, with a hot shower available and beautiful views of the lake. You may also want to warm up your vocal chords for this evening…
Accommodation: Nomad Lodge Yurt Camp, Kyrgyzstan
Included: Breakfast, Picnic, Dinner
DAY 5: KAJI-SAI
By now, it’s day five and you’ll be fully in the rhythm of the Kyrgyz countryside. The hustle and bustle of the West will feel like a different universe as you contemplate the spectacular countryside, miles away from any distraction.
After breakfast, it’s time to meet the eagle hunter and his fine feathered friend on your way to the village of Kadji-Sai. You’ll get the chance to see this ancient hunting tradition in action before grabbing lunch with a local family, followed by a bit of folklore. Oh, and bring your swimsuit if you’re up for a pleasant surprise afterward!
Break up the drive back to your yurt camp by stopping at Skazka Canyon. These unusual rocky landscapes gave this area its name, which means “fairytale.” You’ll admire the whimsical red rock formations before joining up with a local chef to learn how to cook manty, meat dumplings that are the perfect hearty dish after a hike.
Accommodation: Nomad Lodge Yurt Camp, Kyrgyzstan
Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY 6: KARAKOL
Continue making your way along the southern shore of Lake Issyk Kul to the town of Karakol. En-route, you’ll visit Barksoon Gorge with its mixed flora bursting with colours. This is the place for scenic vistas – imbibe the lake, a beautiful waterfall and views of surrounding mountain peaks. Pinch yourself to make sure you’re not dreaming!
On the way back to Karakol, take a diversion into the side valley of Jety Oguz, famous for its two red rock formations called “Seven Bulls” and “The Broken Heart”, to hear the legends behind their interesting names. You’ll enjoy a picnic lunch while admiring the views, and discover the connection between Yuri Gagarin of historic space flight fame and Issyk Kul.
Back in Karakol, it’s time for dinner at our favourite local. It’s traditional and oh so unique.
Accommodation: Hotel 78, Kyrgyzstan (or similar)
Included: Breakfast, Picnic Lunch, Dinner
DAY 7: KARAKOL
There’s lots to see during your city tour of Karakol today, including the wooden Russian Orthodox Church, which has been standing since 1869. It’s the fourth largest city in Kyrgyzstan and has a true multicultural feel.
Meet up with a small producer of local honey, then enjoy a dip in a hot spring before dinner!
Tonight, you’ll dine with a Uighur family. All in all, a very interesting day and more to come tomorrow. Kazakhstan awaits!
Accommodation: Hotel 78, Kyrgyzstan (or similar)
Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY 8: CHARYN CANYON
This morning, the group will head directly to the Kazakh border. Kazakhstan is the largest country by area of the Silk Road, and while it has a reputation for broad open spaces, you’ll start in the picturesque mountain region of the South East.
First up, a designated stop at Charyn Canyon. Somewhat smaller than its US doppelganger (you’ll understand when you’re there), many do say it’s much more attractive in certain parts. We’ll let you decide! A walk down to the river (three kilometres) where a picnic lunch is waiting, before hitting the road again towards Almaty.
All in all, today’s been a bit of a road trip kind of a day, so there are no plans for tonight besides dinner in the city and then a deep, comfortable sleep. Tonight’s hotel is brand new, an indication of the revival efforts towards this historic part of the Silk Road.
Accommodation: Hotel Kazzhol Park, Kazakhstan (or similar)
Included: Breakfast, Picnic Lunch, Dinner
DAY 9: ALMATY
Almaty is the cultural and business capital of Kazakhstan. In the early afternoon, you’ll take a tour of the city, visiting Panfilov Park and the unique Zenkov Cathedral. 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!
Tonight is a special dinner, but also a tearful one as it’s time to say goodbye to your Kyrgyz/Kazakh guide. In each country, you’ll have a local expert in addition to your trip leader. This means that every step of the way, you’ll have someone with you who can translate any of your questions and help you understand the local culture more deeply.
Accommodation: Hotel Kazzhol Park, Kazakhstan (or similar)
Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY 10: DUSHANBE
Rise and shine bright and early for your morning flight to Tajikistan. A country that has been described as ‘mountains upon mountains upon mountains’; you simply will not forget this! Can you believe it’s only been 10 days and you’ll have already explored three countries?
It’s only a short flight to Dushanbe, Tajikistan’s largest city. After checking into the hotel, hit the streets, exploring the city with your Tajik guide. Start at the Navruz Palace. Conceived of as a spectacular tea house, the owners got carried away and ended up with a monument of total excess. Described by one person as ‘opulence gone wild,’ it is now used for the reception of foreign guests, international conferences and fancy weddings.
After popping in to the Museum of Musical Instruments, you’ll grab dinner at a traditional restaurant in the heart of the city. Kurutob is the national dish and who could say no when its name directly translates to “bread salad”?
Dinner hosted by your specialist Tajik guide tonight.
Accommodation: Atlas Hotel, Tajikistan (or similar)
Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY 11: DUSHANBE
Dushanbe is a treasure of a city with just 800,000 people and a relaxed pace. A local expert guide will join the group to visit the National Museum of Antiquities, Rudaki Park and a few other sights on a city walk. You’ll also be invited inside a mosaic masters workshop, learning the ropes of this intricate craft before heading back to the hotel for a bit of rest and relaxation before dinner.
Tomorrow you’re going back on the road for more exploration – this time to the wondrous Tajik mountains, with a chance to meet some locals and enjoy Tajik hospitality.
Accommodation: Hotel Atlas, Tajikistan (or similar)
Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY 12: ISKANDERKUL LAKE
Road trip! Today is a three-hour drive as you make your way deeper into the Tajik mountains.
The drive itself is a major highlight as you wind your way through rugged valleys and past jagged peaks. Stop at Iskanderkul Lake (named after Alexander the Great) for lunch and go on to enjoy a leisurely afternoon after checking into your simple lakeside accommodation.
Enjoy the mountain scenery or stretch those legs and take a short hike to a nearby waterfall. Tonight’s dinner is back at the cottages.
Accommodation: Simple cottages with private bathrooms, Tajikistan
Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY 13: PENJIKENT
Wave goodbye to your peaceful hideaway along the shores of Lake Iskanderkul this morning. After breakfast, you’ll make your way three hours to the “City of Five Villages”, better known as Penjikent.
Once a thriving Silk Road hub, you’ll have the chance to discover the central bazaar, piled high with textiles, wonky vegetables and spices, and teeming with locals ticking off the day’s errands. The 5th-century ruins of the ancient city also wait for you on the outskirts of town. A Sogdian civilisation called these now-crumbling homes, Zoroastrian temples, a necropolis and fire altars ‘home’, over a thousand years ago.
Accommodation: Hotel Penjakent Plaza, Tajikistan (or similar)
Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY 14: SEVEN LAKES
Channel your inner Silk Road caravanner this morning, it’s all bumpy roads on the way to the Seven Lakes. We won’t sugarcoat how turbulent this journey is –if you’re prone to carsickness, you might want to pop an anti-nausea tablet at brekkie – but we can promise that this gnarled road is worth the jolt! Enjoy the iridescent lakes and fresh mountain air before settling into lunch at a family-run guest house along the waterfront.
It’s almost time to say goodbye to Tajikistan, but first make a pit stop in UNESCO Sarazm. Founded in the 4th century, this outpost is rumoured to be the first settlement in Central Asia.
Celebrate two weeks on the Silk Road by arriving in your fourth country of the trip, Uzbekistan! Cross the border as travellers have for thousands of years – by foot. Don’t fret about having to hop back on the bus, you’re almost to your final destination, a legendary city where you’ll get to unpack and stay a while.
Accommodation: Hotel Sandhill, Uzbekistan (or similar)
Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY 15: SAMARKAND
Rise and shine; it’s your first day in Samarkand! Described as a “Crossroads of Cultures”, you’ll discover this city that was once the heartbeat of the Timurid Empire with a local guide. While, yes, Samarkand is possibly the most visited city on the Silk Road, exploring it is a crucial chapter in the story of this ancient highway.
Prepare to be wowed at your first stop of the day, the Bibi Khanum Mosque. This masterpiece of Timurid architecture can hold up to 10,000 worshippers at a time and is intricately carved and tiled. You’ll see Registan Square, the city’s focal point with towering madrassas, and visit the Gūr-e Amir, the mausoleum of Timur himself – an important ruler who ushered in the renaissance that made Samarkand so iconic. Cheers to your day at a wine-tasting Uzbek style this evening with the Patchie gals!
Accommodation: Hotel Sandhill, Uzbekistan (or similar)
Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY 16: SAMARKAND
Fill up on Uzbek breakfast staples like nonushta, a traditional flatbread that’s slathered in kaymak (a hearty yoghurt), and served with a piping hot cup of tea. You’ll need the energy for another day of soaking up Samarkand.
If you thought the tilework you saw yesterday was impressive, wait until you catch a glimpse of Shah-i-Zinda today. Important Timurid figures are buried in this necropolis, including the Prophet Muhammad’s cousin (according to legend). You’ll also pit stop at the Ulugh Beg Observatory, built by Timur’s grandson, a visionary who was lightyears ahead of his Western counterparts.
But your day of ancient delights isn’t over just yet. Pop into a local paper mill to learn more about the art of mulberry bark papermaking. You’ll wrap up the day at the home of local woman, Farida Apa, for dinner. Grab your knives and get to chopping as you learn to make plov, a traditional dish made from meat, rice and veggies.
Accommodation: Hotel Sandhill, Uzbekistan (or similar)
Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY 17: BUKHARA
Watch as Samarkand’s minarets, madrassas and mausoleums disappear. You’ll zoom through the countryside on Uzbekistan’s comfy high-speed train to another Silk Road stunner, pulling into Bukhara’s station in just three hours. Check in to your hotel and rest up before heading out to see this wonder of Medieval Islamic architecture. Founded over 2,000 years ago, the intricate mosaics and carved stone are a feast for the eyes. Wander the alleyways as you uncover gem after gem, including the Poi Kalon complex and trading domes.
Continue your exploration of art galore inside the studio of a master of miniature painting. Davlat Toshev has been perfecting his craft for decades, practising this painstaking artform on homemade paper, much like Bukharians have for centuries.
Accommodation: Hotel Amelia, Uzbekistan (or similar)
Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY 18: BUKHARA
You’ll have a bit more down time today, just after you finish checking off a few unmissable sites in Bukhara. The Ark Fortress is the morning highlight, a 5th-century citadel that is Bukhara’s oldest building and essentially a city within a city. The rest of the afternoon is free to spend however you wish, but you’ll meet back up for a walk through the historic centre of town with a local archaeologist as evening falls.
Makshuma Niyazova received her PhD in 2007 and has spent years studying the city. 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, definitely, but also about what life is like for a professional woman in modern Uzbekistan.
Accommodation: Hotel Amelia, Uzbekistan (or similar)
Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY 19: KHIVA
Amble through the backroads of Uzbekistan today as you make your way through the Kyzylkum Desert to the city of Khiva. It’s an arduous journey – no doubt – but you’ll make a stop for lunch to stretch your legs and admire the lunar landscapes. Eventually, Khiva will appear on the horizon and you’ll pull into town just in time for dinner in the Itchan Kala, also known as Old Town.
Accommodation: Hotel Asia, Uzbekistan (or similar)
Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY 20: KHIVA
Khiva, considered an open-air museum, is a UNESCO destination and a favourite of many Silk Road travellers. Smaller in scale, with a population of just 80,000 people, it has an exceptional atmosphere that obscures its dark history.
You’ll love this desert town; an endless labyrinth of alleyways and blue mosaics. Despite its infinite beauty and feeling of calm, 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. On a side note… the locals believe that Shem, son of Noah, founded the city.
Dine with your fellow travellers on a patio, as the sunset forms a backdrop behind the glorious city views. If you’re feeling frisky, toast to the trip with local Khiva vodka, a holdover from Russian occupation.
Accommodation: Hotel Asia, Uzbekistan (or similar)
Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY 21: TASHKENT
It’s been three weeks travelling the Silk Road and time to make your way to your last stop of the trip. No more long car rides for you, because you’re catching a flight to Tashkent. A stark contrast to the Silk Road cities dripping in ancient architecture that you’ve been exploring, Uzbekistan’s capital is all things modern – with a bit of Soviet influence mixed in too.
Meet Tashkent through your taste buds at lunch before coming face to face with Independence Square. This sprawling monument is a symbol of freedom for Uzbek people who declared independence from the Soviet Union in 1991. Your expert guide might also happen to include some chance meetings with local artists in Tashkent’s eclectic artists’ corner – locally known as ‘Broadway’ – with its pockets of traditional Uzbek and modern street art.
Accommodation: Hotel Inspira, Uzbekistan (or similar)
Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY 22: TASHKENT
You might be wondering where all the beautiful Timurid buildings are in Tashkent. Many were destroyed in the 1966 earthquake that devastated the city. Spend your final day of the trip – ah! – seeking out some of the only historic buildings that survived the quake. Does the architecture at the Khast Imam Complex look familiar? The library here holds what is thought to be the oldest Quran in the world.
Hop on the Tashkent Metro next. If you thought metro stations had to be dirty and boring, well, the Uzbeks would like to have a word with you! You’ll pop up at the famous Chorsu Bazaar, almost resembling a giant, turquoise tortoise. Head inside the shell to reveal what lies beneath – oodles of stalls selling everything from mushrooms to textiles. Tonight is your farewell dinner with the Patchies, reminiscing on this life changing trip.
Accommodation: Hotel Inspira, Uzbekistan (or similar)
Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY 23: FAREWELL, FRIENDS
Can you believe it’s already time to say goodbye? After three weeks of travelling the Silk Road, things that once seemed so strange are starting to feel like the norm. You’ve followed in the footsteps of history, travelled through four Central Asian countries, slept in a yurt and seen mountains, madrassas and metros that most would only dare to find in their dreams.
This is your last chance to swap emails and phone numbers with your fellow Patchies and grab a hug. There’s nothing like travel to bond you for life and this is certainly a trip for the books! With the Silk Road under your belt, who knows where you’ll head off to next?
Included: Breakfast
Trip Map
Good to Know
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:USD 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:
12 September 2023 departure: 1 AUD:0.69 USD
19 September 2023 departure: 1 AUD:0.69 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. (Applicable to all bookings made 110 days in advance.)
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 120 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 Flight Centre!
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:
– $90 US given to your guide in Bishkek on Day 1
– $110 USD to your regional guide in Almaty on the evening of Day 10.
The kitty will be managed by your regional guide and distributed along the way at restaurants for included meals, hotel staff, drivers and all guides.
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.
Level 1 or Easy
So long as you have a general level of health and fitness, you’ll be fine. However, to enjoy this trip, you’ll need to be able to spend time on your feet and regularly walk for 2-3 hours. Daily activities might include walking on uneven and hilly ground, getting on and off various forms of transportation and occasionally climbing some stairs. You may also encounter over-the-bath showers in some of the accommodations.
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. 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.
