Silk Road Wonders: Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan & Tajikistan

Silk Road Wonders: Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan & Tajikistan

• Trip code: 4M1X014
• Dauer: 12
• Stil: Classic

The Silk Road doesn't give up its secrets easily — and twelve days is just enough time to earn them. Start in Ashgabat's bizarrely beautiful marble city before the Karakum Desert pulls you toward the blazing Darvaza Crater. Uzbekistan's legendary trio follows (Khiva, Bukhara, Samarkand — yes, all three), then Tajikistan's mountain lakes deliver a finale that'll stop you cold.

Übersicht

Accommodation

Standard hotels/guesthouses (10 nts), yurts (1 nts). Please note that there will be shared bathroom facilities when staying in the yurts

Checklist

Cold Weather:
• Long-sleeved shirts or sweater
• Scarf
• Warm gloves
• Warm hat
• Warm layers
• Warm waterproof jacket

Conservative Dress:
• Modest clothing that covers knees and shoulders (Long pants, long skirts, shirts that cover shoulders)
• Shawl or scarf (for temple visits)

Documents:
• Flight info (required) (Printouts of e-tickets may be required at the border)
• Insurance info (required) (With photocopies)
• Passport (required) (With photocopies)
• Vouchers and pre-departure information (required)
• Visas or vaccination certificates (With photocopies)

Essentials:
• Toiletries (required) (Shampoo, bodywash, soap, etc.)
• Binoculars (optional)
• Camera (With extra memory cards and batteries)
• Cash, credit and debit cards
• Day pack (Used for daily excursions or short overnights)
• Ear plugs
• First-aid kit (should contain lip balm with sunscreen, sunscreen, whistle, Aspirin, Ibuprofen, bandaids/plasters, tape, anti-histamines, antibacterial gel/wipes, antiseptic cream, Imodium or similar tablets for mild cases of diarrhea, rehydration powder, water purification tablets or drops, insect repellent, sewing kit, extra prescription drugs you may be taking)
• Flashlight/torch (Headlamps are ideal)
• Fleece top/sweater
• Footwear
• Hat
• Headphones (Noise-cancelling recommended)
• Locks for bags
• Long pants/jeans
• Moneybelt
• Outlet adapter
• Personal entertainment (Reading and writing materials, cards, music player, etc.)
• Reusable water bottle
• Shirts/t-shirts
• Sleepwear
• Small travel towel
• Sunglasses
• Swimwear
• Watch and alarm clock
• Waterproof backpack cover
• Windproof rain jacket

Health & Safety:
• Face masks (Clients will be only be required to wear a face mask where it is mandated by local regulations.)
• Hand sanitizer
• Pen (Please bring your own pen for filling out documents.)

Warm Weather:
• Sandals/flip-flops
• Shorts/skirts (Longer shorts/skirts are recommended)
• Sturdy water shoes/sandals
• Sun hat/bandana
• Swimwear

Bitte beachte: Though you can see lots of people in traditional clothes, Central Asia has adopted western style clothing as well. Don't hesitate to pack your usual travel clothes: in summer it can be shorts and t-shirts, sandals etc. We recommend not to bring tank tops/singlets and any types of clothes with bare shoulders and backs - it is unacceptable in most areas, even in bigger cities. Our tour takes us to many religious sights, where dress code is very strict. We recommend women to have a headscarf in their day bags to cover up when going inside mosques (it's also a great help in the heat in summer). Best things to pack for the hot Central Asian climate is loose, long clothing - long trousers and sarongs or long skirts for women

Group Leader

CEO (Chief Experience Officer) throughout

Group Size Notes

Max 16, avg 14

Highlights

Wander Ashgabat's surreal marble streets and uncover Old Nisa's ancient past, Spend a night in a desert yurt beside the blazing Darvaza Crater, Ride trains through open steppe and watch the Silk Road unfold outside, Cross into Tajikistan for the Seven Lakes and a home-cooked village meal, Tick off the big three — Khiva, Bukhara, and Samarkand — in one epic sweep

Introduction

The Silk Road doesn't give up its secrets easily — and twelve days is just enough time to earn them. Start in Ashgabat's bizarrely beautiful marble city before the Karakum Desert pulls you toward the blazing Darvaza Crater. Uzbekistan's legendary trio follows (Khiva, Bukhara, Samarkand — yes, all three), then Tajikistan's mountain lakes deliver a finale that'll stop you cold

Meals Included

11 Frühstück, 2 Abendessen

Meal Budget

Plane USD255-335 für nicht inbegriffene Mahlzeiten ein

Optional Activities

Ashgabat
- Welcome Dinner

Bukhara
- Besuch in einem Hammam (Dampfbad) (35USD pro Person)
- Uzbek Cooking Class

Marguzor
- Hike Marguzor Lakes 6 & 7

Start / Finish

Ashgabat nach Tashkent

Transport

Private vehicles, train, walking

What's Included

Dein Welcome-Moment: Welcome Moment - Meet Your CEO and Group, Ashgabat. Arrival transfer. Guided tour of Ashgabat. Visit to National Museum. Visit Old Nisa. Guided tour of Khiva. Free time in Khiva. Train to Bukhara. Guided tour of Bukhara. Free time in Bukhara. Explore Siyab bazaar. Visit of Panjakent Market. Visit to the Seven Lakes area. Train to Samarkand. Guided tour of Samarkand. Free time in Samarkand. Train to Tashkent. Free time in Tashkent. Guided tour of Tashkent. All transport between destinations and to/from included activities

Packing Note

Though you can see lots of people in traditional clothes, Central Asia has adopted western style clothing as well. Don't hesitate to pack your usual travel clothes: in summer it can be shorts and t-shirts, sandals etc. We recommend not to bring tank tops/singlets and any types of clothes with bare shoulders and backs - it is unacceptable in most areas, even in bigger cities. Our tour takes us to many religious sights, where dress code is very strict. We recommend women to have a headscarf in their day bags to cover up when going inside mosques (it's also a great help in the heat in summer). Best things to pack for the hot Central Asian climate is loose, long clothing - long trousers and sarongs or long skirts for women

Internationale Flüge

No, international flights are generally not included in the price of your tour.

However, on some combo tours travelling between two different countries, international flights are included as part of the itinerary and price of the tour. Please speak to your GCO or booking agent for further details.

In addition, check-in times and baggage allowances/restrictions vary by airline and can change at any time. For the most up-to-date information for your flight, please contact your airline. We recommend checking in online in advance to avoid potential delays at the airport

Minimum Age

Um ohne Begleitperson mit G Adventures zu reisen, musst du mindestens 18 Jahre alt sein. Das Mindestalter für Kinder in Begleitung eines Erziehungsberechtigten (über 21) beträgt 12 Jahre

Itinerary

Day 1 Ashgabat

Welcome to Turkmenistan, a land of striking contrasts and fascinating history! Arrive any time and take a moment to settle in, refresh, and soak in the unique energy of the city. This afternoon, embark on a guided tour of Ashgabat, where modern grandeur meets ancient heritage. Marvel at the city’s gleaming marble architecture, explore bustling markets, and glimpse iconic landmarks that reflect Turkmenistan’s rich culture and history. Consider this your introduction to the Silk Road’s enduring legacy and the adventures that lie ahead

Day 2 Ashgabat/Derweze

In the morning, explore Turkmenistan’s history at the National Museum, where fascinating exhibits showcase the country’s ancient civilizations, intricate art, and cultural treasures. Then, explore Old Nisa, a UNESCO World Heritage site and once a mighty Parthian city

In the afternoon, journey across the Karakum Desert to the Darvaza Crater, the famous “Gates of Hell.” Settle into your yurt camp, enjoy dinner, and experience the crater’s fiery glow under the desert stars — a truly unforgettable sight

Day 3 Derweze/Khiva

Set off for Dashoguz and explore the local museum, discovering the culture and stories of this desert region. In the afternoon, it’s time for a mini adventure — crossing the border into Uzbekistan! Feel the excitement of entering a new country as you drive toward Khiva, one of the Silk Road’s most enchanting cities

Day 4 Khiva

Step straight into a living museum with a guided tour of Khiva, where turquoise domes, towering minarets, and ancient city walls transport you back to Silk Road times. Wander through the UNESCO-listed old town, hearing stories of traders, rulers, and travellers who once passed through these very streets. In the afternoon, enjoy free time to explore at your own pace. Climb a minaret for sweeping views, browse local craft shops, or join an optional activity to dive even deeper into this captivating city

Day 5 Khiva/Bukhara

Depart for your next Silk Road gem and board the train to Bukhara. Sit back and relax as the landscapes roll by — a classic overland journey connecting two historic cities. Upon arrival in Bukhara, settle in before heading out for a short orientation walk and debrief. Stretch your legs as you get your first taste of this atmospheric city, where ancient domes and winding lanes set the stage for tomorrow’s discoveries

Day 6 Bukhara

Explore Bukhara on a half-day guided walking tour around the beautifully restored mosques, madrassas, and covered markets, or trading domes, that make up the Old City. A centre for pottery, cloth, and carpets, Bukhara is centered around Lyabi-Hauz, a delightful pool of water surrounded by ancient mulberry trees. Wander the artisan shops and narrow twisting streets and alleyways, or sit at a café table and let the evening drift by. Opt to join a traditional cooking class, or indulge in a rejuvenating hammam bathhouse

Day 7 Bukhara/Samarkand

Spend the morning soaking up more of Bukhara’s magic. Wander at your own pace or join an optional tour through the old alleys, stepping inside traditional workshops to see local artisans at work. Later, head to the train station and board the train to Samarkand, another legendary Silk Road city. On arrival, check in to your hotel before heading out on an orientation walk to get your bearings

Day 8 Samarkand

Embark on a city tour of Samarkand, visiting Shaki Zinda complex, the bazaar, Bibi Khanum, and Registan Square. We'll also visit the famed Amir Timur Mausoleum, dedicated to the famous conqueror who once hoped to rebuild the empire of Genghis Khan. Spend the afternoon exploring the vibrant Siyob Bazaar, where colourful stalls overflow with fresh produce, spices, and local treats

Day 9 Samarkand/Marguzor

This morning, depart for the border and cross into Tajikistan, where a new chapter of the Silk Road unfolds. Continue on to Panjakent, stopping for a quick visit to the local market to pick up some fresh snacks for the journey ahead. Travel onward to Padrud Village, pausing along the way to admire the shimmering beauty of the famed Four Lakes, each one a different shade of blue and green. Upon arrival, check in to your guesthouse and explore the village on foot, enjoying a short hike through the surrounding landscapes. End the day with a home-cooked dinner at the guesthouse, soaking in the peaceful mountain atmosphere

Day 10 Marguzor/Tashkent

Lace up your boots for an optional hike to the sixth and seventh lakes, where dramatic mountain scenery and crystal-clear waters reward your efforts. After soaking in the views, retrace your route to the border, cross back into Uzbekistan, and continue to Samarkand. From there, board the high-speed train to Tashkent, watching the countryside blur past as you travel in comfort. Arrive in Tashkent in the evening, ready to experience Uzbekistan’s dynamic capital

Day 11 Tashkent

Dive into Uzbekistan’s vibrant capital with a half-day guided tour of Tashkent. Explore the lively Chorsu Bazaar, stroll through grand Independence Square, and descend into the beautifully decorated stations of the iconic Tashkent Metro — each one a work of art in its own right. The rest of the day is yours to enjoy. Wander leafy boulevards, relax in a café, or continue exploring this dynamic city at your own pace

Day 12 Tashkent

Depart any time

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1 Ashgabat

Day 2 Ashgabat/Derweze

Day 3 Derweze/Khiva

Day 4 Khiva

Day 5 Khiva/Bukhara

Day 6 Bukhara

Day 7 Bukhara/Samarkand

Day 8 Samarkand

Day 9 Samarkand/Marguzor

Day 10 Marguzor/Tashkent

Day 11 Tashkent

Day 12 Tashkent