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.
Travel Style
Classic
Service Level
Standard
Physical Grading
2 - Light
What's Included
Your 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.
What are the main highlights of this trip?
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
How large will the group be?
Max 16, avg 14
What meals are included in this trip?
11 breakfasts, 2 dinners
What are the modes of transportation on my trip?
Private vehicles, train, walking.
Where will we stay during the trip?
Standard hotels/guesthouses (10 nts), yurts (1 nts). Please note that there will be shared bathroom facilities when staying in the yurts.
Itinerary
Ashgabat
Welcome to Turkmenistan, a land of striking contrasts and fascinating history! 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.
Ashgabat/Darvaza
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.
Darvaza/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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Tashkent
Depart any time.
Is travel insurance required for my trip?
Travel Insurance: Travel insurance is compulsory in order to participate on any of our trips. When travelling on a group trip, you will not be permitted to join the group until evidence of travel insurance has been sighted by your CEO, who will take note of your insurance details. When selecting a travel insurance policy please bear in mind that all clients must have medical coverage and that we require a minimum coverage of USD 200,000 for repatriation and emergency rescue. We strongly recommend that the policy also covers personal liability, cancellation, curtailment and loss of luggage and personal effects. If you have credit card insurance we require proof of purchase of the trip (a receipt of credit card statement) with a credit card in your name. Contact your bank for details of their participating insurer, the level of coverage and emergency contact telephone number.
Terms, conditions and restrictions apply; pricing, availability, and other details subject to change and/ or apply to US or Canadian residents. Please confirm details and booking information with your travel advisor.
