Central Asia Small Group Tour 2026-2028
Tour Details
16 days
2-8 pax
$4,090 / per person
$600 Single supplement
Description
Central Asia is an enchanting region, characterized by a diverse cultural landscape, which is uniquely woven together by a shared Turkic heritage. Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan, Tajikistan and Turkmenistan are all steeped in history and boast awe-inspiring landscapes and singular experiences. Fortunately, visa regulations have been relaxed, making travel between these former Soviet states much easier.
Embarking on the Central Asia Small Group Tour is an exceptional adventure that spans 16 days, taking you to each of the five Central Asian nations to experience their finest offerings. With our small group tours, you can effortlessly explore Central Asia without any hassle. This comprehensive tour offers an array of unforgettable experiences, from witnessing the construction of yurts in Kyrgyzstan to marveling at the stunning mountains and canyons of Tajikistan and Kazakhstan. Additionally, you'll visit Uzbekistan's breathtaking blue-tiled madrassas and vibrant bazaars, ensuring a truly unforgettable journey. Embark on a journey of discovery to Turkmenistan and witness the surreal beauty of the Darvaza Gas Crater with our group tour. This unique experience promises to be an unforgettable adventure.
Program
Meals: none
Meals: breakfast, picnic-lunch
Depart Almaty and drive to Bishkek via a newly built highway enjoying the nature landscapes on the way (250 km, 4 h.). Pass border control and arrive in Bishkek, then transfer to hotel. Overnight in Bishkek your Central Asia Group Tour third night.
Meals: breakfast, lunch
Transfer to Don Aryk village for lunch with local Kyrgyz family at their home. After lunch, local women will demonstrate the construction of a yurt, and you can even take part in it! Then drive to Burana Tower, part of the ancient city of Balasagun (11-13th centuries) and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Return to Bishkek. Overnight at the hotel.
Meals: breakfast, lunch
Meals: breakfast, picnic-lunch
Meals: breakfast
Meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner
Meals: breakfast, lunch
Drive to Bukhara and on the way visit the Emir's Summer Residence at Sitorai Mokhi-Khosa (19th century). This is a unique site combining Oriental and Russian architecture (please note that no English-speaking guide is provided here). Check-in to the hotel in Bukhara. In the evening, there is a National show at Nadir Divan-Begi Madrasah with dinner. Overnight at the hotel.
Meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner
Optional Activity: Immerse yourself, literally, in centuries-old traditions at the Bozori Kord Hammam, a traditional Turkic bathhouse. Opened in the 14th century, it’s been in operation ever since.
Meals: breakfast
*As the cafés and restaurants on the way are basic and offer limited menus, you may wish to take a packed lunch on this trip.
Optional Activity: In the evening, take a masterclass on cooking “tukhumbarak” (egg dumplings) a classic Khivan cuisine. Dinner is included. Price is 25 USD per person, with a minimum of 4 persons required.
Meals: breakfast
Meals: breakfast
In the afternoon, you'll take a four-hour drive to the Darvaza Gas Crater, located in the middle of the Karakum Desert (280 km, 4-5h). You'll set up camp and enjoy the magnificent ring of fire by night, which is approximately 80 meters in diameter and 30 meters in depth. A delicious fire-cooked meal will be served for dinner near the burning gas crater, once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Meals: Breakfast, Picnic Lunch, camp style BBQ Dinner
Upon arrival in Ashgabat, check-in to hotel and start a sightseeing tour of the capital city, which has been recognized by the Guinness Book of World Records for having more white marble buildings than any other city in the world. You'll visit the Old Nissa archaeological site, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the Spiritual Mosque, which is one of the largest mosques in Central Asia. Other notable stops include the National Museum of History, the Monument of Neutrality, Presidential Square, Ertugrul Gazi Mosque, and the recently built Independence Park. A delicious dinner will be served, overnight in Ashgabat.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Meals: Breakfast
Includes
- Accommodation based on double/twin room sharing, with breakfast, 14 nights;
- All road transfers including airport and train station (2 persons in sedan, 3-8 persons in minivan);
- Local English-speaking escort guide on days 2-5, 8-9 and 14-15;
- Local English-speaking guide for the city tours in Tashkent, Samarkand, Bukhara and Khiva;
- Entrance fees to sights as per itinerary;
- Yurt construction show in Don Aryk village on day 4;
- Gijduvan pottery master class;
- National folklore show and dinner in Bukhara;
- Economy-class tickets for flights from Bishkek to Tashkent;
- Economy-class tickets for Tashkent-Samarkand train;
- Meals as designated in the program;
- 1L bottle of water per person per day;
- Trekking tent in Darvaza or shared Yurt (includes sleeping mat, sleeping bag and pillow, 1 night);
- Transfers SUV/4WD in Darvaza;
- Visa support letter for Turkmenistan tourist visa.
- Tour leader to accompany the group for the whole duration of the tour;
- Meals not indicated in the program;
- Hotel charges for additional services;
- Personal travel insurance;
- International flight tickets before and after the tour;
- All visas, e-visas and visa support letters to Central Asia countries;
- Tips are not included (driver, guide, porter);
- All other charges and services not mentioned under “Inclusions”.
Discount: Discover the beauty of Central Asia with an amazing 5% discount! Book our Central Asia Small Group Tour now and receive this special offer when you invite 2 new travelers to join you on the journey. Explore the rich history, culture, and stunning landscapes of this fascinating region in the company of like-minded travelers and a knowledgeable guide. Don't miss out on this opportunity to save and create unforgettable memories. Book now and start your adventure!
Accommodation:
| Almaty - 2 nights |
| Kazzhol Park, Ramada, Garden Park Inn or similar |
| Bishkek - 2 night |
| Ramada, Plaza, Damas, Sofia or similar |
| Penjikent - 1 nights |
| Panjakent Plaza, Rudaki |
| Tashkent - 2 nights |
| ATECA, Baden-Baden, Al Anvar, Elements, The Tower |
| Samarkand - 2 night |
| Shahjahon Palace, Welfort, Samaria, East Star |
| Bukhara - 2 nights |
| Minzifa, Amiran, Mehrob, Marhaba, K.Komil |
| Khiva - 2 night |
| Malika Kheivak, ANNEX, Erkin Palace, Arslan, New Minor |
| Darvaza - 1 night |
| Tent / shared yurt |
| Ashgabat - 1 night |
| Sport, Ak Altyn or similar |
Planning to travel to Central Asia is an exciting adventure and it's important to be well-informed before you go. Here are some key things to keep in mind for your Central Asia Small Group Tour:
- Passport and visa requirements: Make sure your passport is valid for at least six months from the date of your trip and check the visa requirements for the countries you'll be visiting.
- Health and safety: Consult with your doctor about any recommended vaccinations and carry a basic first aid kit. It's also important to familiarize yourself with the local customs and laws to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.
- Climate: Central Asia has a diverse range of climates, from the hot and arid deserts to the cold and snowy mountain regions. Pack appropriate clothing and footwear for the conditions you'll be facing.
- Currency: Research the currency of each country you'll be visiting and consider exchanging some cash or carrying a credit card for added convenience.
- Local culture: Central Asia is home to a rich and diverse cultural heritage, and it's important to be respectful of local customs and traditions. Familiarize yourself with basic etiquette and cultural norms to ensure a smooth and culturally immersive experience.
By keeping these key points in mind, you'll be well prepared for an unforgettable trip to Central Asia. So pack your bags and get ready for the adventure of a lifetime!
Frequently Asked Questions on Central Asia Small Group Tour
The official languages in the region are Uzbek in Uzbekistan, Kazakh in Kazakhstan, Kyrgyz in Kyrgyzstan, and Tajik in Tajikistan. All of these languages belong to the Turkish language group except Tajik that belongs to Farsi.
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Reviews
We are now back home. We had a lovely time. The Plov making with the family last night was absolutely great. The guide and driver in Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan were excellent. Samarkand great tour - driver and guide both very good. The pottery class in Gijduvan was interesting, the delivered the plates to the hotel. Minor issues with a couple guides/drivers are things you cannot control. We saw a lot and learned a lot. We have now been to 81 countries; will start working on the next trip to find some more!
Places visited: Almaty, Charyn Canyon, Bishkek, Burana, Ala Archa, Tashkent, Samarkand, Seven Lakes, Penjikent, Gijduvon, Bukhara, Khiva, Kunya Urgench, Darvaza Gas Crater, Ashgabat.
Countries: Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan.