Silk Road Adventure
Silk Road Adventure
Silk Road Adventure
22 Days Starting and ending in Tashkent
Visiting: Tashkent , Fergana, Osh , Toktogul, Song Kul Lake , Naryn, Tash-Rabat, Karakol, Kyrgyzstan, Karkara, Chon Kemin, Samarkand , Bukhara , Khiva, Train - Khiva to Tashkent
Tour operator:
Tour code:
SATT
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Group size:
1 - 15
Age range:
18-90
Special diets catered:
Vegetarians
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Interests:
Activities:
Private Available:
Request A Private Tour
Tour Overview
Designed especially for travellers who seek high adventure among the peaks and mountain passes of the Tien Shan Mountains, this journey traverses some of the least travelled routes of the Silk Road. Your adventurous spirit will be rewarded with breathtaking scenery in unspoilt wilderness. An experienced Tour Leader accompanies the whole journey to keep your adventure on track. Local Guides are native to each destination and as certified professionals will share their immense knowledge with you.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Tashkent
Location: Tashkent
Beginning in the Uzbek capital of Tashkent, the heart of the Silk Road, take the chance to explore the old town and Chorsu Bazaar, one of the oldest and largest Bazaars in Central Asia, found in the unique complex of trade halls crowned with magnificent blue domes. In the evening of Day 1 you join your Tour Leader and fellow travellers at 5:00pm for your Welcome Meeting as detailed on your joining instructions.
Day 2: To Fergana Valley
Location: Fergana
After breakfast this morning we travel beyond the capital to the rarely visited oasis of Fergana Valley, the lyrical land of fruit and honey. En route we stop at one of the most ancient cities of Uzbekistan, Kokand, and the potters town of Rishton.
Day 3: Fergana Valley And To Osh
Location: Osh
Continuing through the Fergana Valley we visit the silk-weaving town of Margilan -€“ where tourists are seldom seen, and the friendly locals dress in traditional wear. The local bazaar with its seductive sights, sounds and aromas is one of the most interesting in the valley. Our journey then takes us across the border to Osh, strategically positioned at the eastern gateway of the Fergana Valley, and which prospered with Silk Road trade until the Mongol armies destroyed the city in the 13th century. This afternoon we gain an insight into its heart and soul visiting the spiritual Suleiman Mountains as well as its colourful bazaar.
Day 4: To Toktogul
Location: Toktogul
After breakfast we begin our drive towards Toktogul Lake, the biggest in Kyrgyzstan. On the way we stop in Uzgen town to visit the historical complex of Karakhanids, a wonderful example of medieval architecture. This afternoon we arrive at our accommodation on the south shore of Toktogul Lake.
Day 5: To Son Kul
Location: Song Kul Lake
Today we head to the second largest lake in Kyrgyzstan -€“ Son Kul Lake. We travel through Suusamyr Valley and Karakeche Pass.
Step into the nomadic life where the Kyrgyz people still live in traditional simplicity. You spend time with friendly Kyrgyz families and taste their fresh airan (yogurt) and kumis (a fermented national drink from mare-€™s milk).
You have time explore the area and enjoy the peaceful and picturesque landscapes. Tonight we sleep in yurts.
Day 6: To Naryn
Location: Naryn
After breakfast, we leave the lake and drive to Naryn. The drive takes us along beautiful mountain ridges and vast green valleys.
Upon arrival into Naryn we have a city tour including local museum, art gallery and central square.
Day 7: Day Excursion To Tash Rabat
Location: Tash-Rabat
We drive to the At-Bashi region and reach Kara Koun Canyon where we visit Tash Rabat Caravansersai, a legacy of the Great Silk Road.
We return to Naryn this evening.
Day 8: To Karakol
Location: Karakol, Kyrgyzstan
After breakfast we drive to Karakol making stops along the way. We visit Kochkor village along the southern shore of the Issyk Kul Lake and learn about local felt production.
We also stop in beautiful Skazka (Fairy Tale) Canyon. The canyon consist of mottled petrified clay and look very picturesque with dark blue Issyk Kul Lake in the background.
This evening we arrive into Karakol.
Day 9: To Karkara
Location: Karkara
We spend the morning exploring Karakol with a visit to Dungan Mosque, Orthodox Cathedral and the local history museum. We then head out towards the Karkara Valley, near the Kazakhstan border.
We arrive at our yurt camp and have time to enjoy the area. Perhaps a walk along the canyon, climbing up the hills for a picturesque panoramic view or you might like to simply sit and breathe in the fresh air.
Day 10: To Chon Kemin
Location: Chon Kemin
This morning we drive out to Chon Kemin Valley via the petroglyphs in Cholpon Ata.
Chon Kemin is a unique natural reserve where glaciers are bordered with green coniferous forests and steppe regions. We see the contrast of green meadows in the valley against permanent snow covering the ranges of Kungei-Ala-Too and Zailiyskiy-Ala-Too which tower above us.
Day 11: To Bishkek And Fly To Tashkent
Location: Tashkent
Leaving the lake-€™s glistening waters behind, we continue on to Kyrgyzstan-€™s capital, Bishkek. Along the way we stop to wander around the Burana Tower, before spending the evening enjoying Bishkek-€™s many parks and intriguing soviet buildings. This evening we fly to Tashkent.
Day 12: To Samarkand
Location: Samarkand
This morning we depart by train to Samarkand -€“ the most evocative city of the Silk Road, often referred to as -€˜Golden Samarkand-€™, after the romantic poem -€˜The Golden Road to Samarkand-€™ by English poet, James Elroy Flecker, who strangely never visited the area. Still, that is a minor detail when we consider that the city-€™s Registan is simply the most spectacular architectural ensemble in Central Asia. Comprised of three madrassas (places of learning) and a mosque, this beautiful square is inspiring. Other highlights include Shah-IZinda, with its narrow alleys of tombs and mausoleums, Bibi Khanym Mosque and the Ulug Bek Observatory.
Day 13: Samarkand
Location: Samarkand
Today we will visit the site of the ancient settlements of Afrasiab that existed more than two thousand years ago, as well as the Mausoleum of the Prophet Daniel on the fringe of Afrasiab.
Day 14: Samarkand
Location: Samarkand
The day is yours to get lost in the history of this fabled city.
Day 15: To Bukhara Via Shakhrisabz
Location: Bukhara
A spectacular drive through the Zerafshan Mountains takes us to Shakhrisabz, the birthplace of Tamerlane. Beside the ruined entrance towers of his Ak-Serai Palace, the pretty market town offers a relaxed atmosphere with traditional homes, tea houses and mosques.Later, we arrive in Bukhara.
Day 16: Bukhara
Location: Bukhara
Bukhara is alive with history, the Ark Fortress, Samanid Mausoleum; one of the world-€™s oldest monuments and the Kalyan Minaret are just some of the wonders not to be missed. In the covered bazaars, rugs, silks and spices are still traded as they were in the heyday of the Silk Road and exploring them gives a real sense of what it could have been like in the days of Marco Polo.
Day 17: Bukhara
Location: Bukhara
Today you can enjoy your free time in Bukhara. The old town is well worth exploring, and the chaikanas (tea-houses) inviting.
Day 18: Khiva
Location: Khiva
We continue our Silk Road Adventure onwards across the Kyzyl Kum desert by train to Khiva.
Day 19: Khiva
Location: Khiva
Today we explore the old city of Khiva -€“ one of the best-preserved examples of a walled Khanate city with foundations dating from the 10th century. A truly magnificent sight to behold, as we draw nearer Khiva rises out of the desert to reveal a wealth of well-preserved and impressive architecture.
Day 20: Khiva And To Tashkent
Location: Train - Khiva to Tashkent
Spend the day soaking in the glittering sites of this fascinating city before making our way to the railway station to board our final train this afternoon, returning to Tashkent tomorrow morning.
Day 21: Tashkent
Location: Tashkent
Our journey concludes where it all began and you can enjoy a final day in Tashkent.
Day 22: Tashkent
Location: Tashkent
Our adventure has drawn to a close. Say farewell to your travelling companions and tour leader before departing your hotel this morning.
What's Included
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Accommodation
19 hotel / guesthouse (twin share), 1 yurt (shared), 1 train (shared 2 berth)
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Additional Services
Comprehensive schedule of sightseeing with certified Local Guides.
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Airport Transfers at Destination
All transfers including to and from the airport
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Fully Guided
An experienced Tour Leader accompanies the whole journey to keep your adventure on track. Local Guides are native to each destination and as certified professionals will share their immense knowledge with you. 24/7 support is available in the office and on the ground.
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Meals
20 breakfasts, 10 lunches, 12 dinners
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Transport
Flight between Bishkek and Tashkent
What's Not Included
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Insurance
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International Travel
Check out our Q&As
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Do you require a visa for this holiday?
Depending on your passport you may require visas for this journey. You will be provided with a comprehensive set of visa guidelines to assist you.
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Can I travel independently on this journey?
Yes, Sundowners Overland can created a customised Tailor Made journey to meet your needs should you wish to travel independently through these regions.
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What is the maximum group size?
Small group tours ensure an intimate experience and all of our tours have a maxumum group size of 15.
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Are all entrance fees included in the price?
Yes, all entrance fees for scheduled sightseeing are included.
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Are airport transfers included in this tour?
Yes, all arrival and departure transfers are included to and from the airport.
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Is there a supplement for solo travellers?
There are no single supplements on group tours if you are happy to share wtih fellow travellers. If you craft a custom journey or would prefer private hotel accommodation a single supplement may apply.
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Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?
Like-minded, well travelled clients who you are sure to forge lasting friendships with as you unlock the wonders of the world together.
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Can I create a customised journey with Sundowners Overland
Yes. All of our group tours can be used as a starting point to create your own adventure. Whether travelling alone or in a private group the options are endless. We are happy to work with you to craft a journey that meets your interests and requirements.
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How long has the tour company been trading?
Since 1964
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Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?
There are no single supplements on group tours if you are happy to share with fellow travelers. If you craft a custom journey or would prefer private hotel accommodation, a single supplement may apply.
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What documents will I receive before I travel?
Comprehensive tour documentation and visa guidelines
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What policies are in place for Covid-19?
Please see full booking conditions for details.
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Can I join the tour once it has departed?
Contact us to see if an alternative start point applies to your chosen journey.
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Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
Yes, we ensure that all accommodation is of a suitable standard for our journeys.
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What happens if I need to change my holiday date once I’ve booked?
Please see full booking conditions for details
Reviews from travellers on this tour
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Free Date Changes
CTS demo white label allows you to make 20 free date changes, as long as the change is made at least 0 days before the start of the tour.
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Low Deposit
CTS demo white label requires a minimum deposit of 55% or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 30 days before departure.
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Terms and Conditions