In Flight Day dedicated to international flights and connections en route to Kyrgyzstan.

Arrival in Bishkek Arrival during the night in Bishkek, a city nestled at the foot of the majestic Tian Shan Mountains. Meet your guide upon arrival, followed by a transfer to the hotel and time to rest. In the afternoon, enjoy your first introduction to the Kyrgyz capital with a stroll through Ala-Too Square, the vibrant heart of the city, where the monument of Manas, the legendary hero of the Kyrgyz people, proudly stands. Visit the State History Museum before enjoying free time to soak in the local atmosphere.

Bishkek and Its Colourful Markets Continue discovering Bishkek with a visit to the Central Mosque, an impressive modern structure financed by Turkey. You will then immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere of Osh Bazaar, famous for its colourful stalls, fragrant spices, and authentic oriental ambiance. Lunch included followed by free time for personal discoveries.

Bishkek – Burana Tower – Issyk-Kul Lake Departure toward spectacular Issyk-Kul Lake, considered the second-largest alpine lake in the world. Along the way, visit the historic Burana Tower dating back to the 9th century, followed by lunch with a local family for an authentic immersion into Kyrgyz hospitality. Continue along the northern shore of the lake to Kurskoe. Free time at the end of the day.

Cholpon-Ata – Semenovskoe Gorge – Karakol This morning, discover Cholpon-Ata and its open-air petroglyph museum. These rock carvings, some dating back to the late Bronze Age, provide fascinating insight into ancient civilizations. The site also offers breathtaking panoramic views over Issyk-Kul Lake. Picnic lunch at a fish farm located in the beautiful Semenovskoe Gorge. In the afternoon, continue to Karakol and enjoy free time upon arrival.

Karakol and the Jety Oguz Gorge Walking tour of Karakol featuring the Holy Trinity Church, a magnificent wooden Orthodox cathedral with emerald-green roofs. Continue with a visit to the Dungan Mosque, inspired by traditional Chinese architecture and constructed entirely without nails, followed by the Prjevalski Museum dedicated to the famous 19th-century Russian explorer. In the afternoon, excursion to the Jety Oguz Gorge, a spectacular natural site known for its striking red rock formations, mountain scenery, waterfalls, and caves. Enjoy a walk through the Valley of the Seven Bulls, either on foot or horseback (optional extra), before returning to Karakol.

Karakol – Charyn Canyon – Almaty Departure for Kazakhstan. Along the way, stop at the spectacular Charyn Canyon, often referred to as the “Valley of Castles.” Shaped by erosion, wind, and the Charyn River, this impressive canyon with its ochre-coloured landscapes is often compared to the Colorado canyons. Enjoy a walk through this extraordinary setting before continuing to Almaty, the former Kazakh capital nestled among the mountains.

Almaty, Between Modernity and Traditions Today is dedicated to discovering Almaty, one of Central Asia’s most vibrant and cosmopolitan cities. Stop at Kok-Tobe Hill for panoramic views over the city before visiting Republic Square and the Independence Monument. Stroll through the colourful Green Market, renowned for its fresh produce, spices, fish, and local specialties. In the afternoon, visit the Central State Museum of Kazakhstan and the Museum of Musical Instruments. Continue with a walk through Panfilov Park and a visit to the stunning Zenkov Cathedral, admired for its colourful façade, glazed tiles, and unique wooden architecture.

Almaty – Tashkent Transfer to the airport for a nonstop flight to Tashkent, the capital of Uzbekistan. Meet your guide, transfer to the hotel, and enjoy lunch. In the afternoon, discover the city’s highlights, including the Khast Imam architectural complex, Barak-Khan Madrasah, the mausoleum of Abu Bakr Kaffal Chachi, and the Moyie Mubarek Library Museum, home to a famous ancient Quran dating back to the 7th century. Stop at the colourful Chorsu Bazaar beneath its iconic blue-green dome before enjoying a short ride through the Tashkent Metro, famous for its beautifully decorated stations featuring mosaics, ceramics, and glass artwork.

Tashkent – Samarkand Transfer to the Tashkent train station and board the high-speed Afrosiab train to Samarkand, one of the oldest cities in the world and a legendary stop along the Silk Road. After hotel check-in and lunch, begin discovering the city with the magnificent Registan Square, an architectural masterpiece adorned with dazzling tilework and framed by three magnificent madrasahs dating from the 15th and 17th centuries. Visit the Gur-Emir Mausoleum, burial place of the Timurid dynasty, followed by a short visit to the Ak-Saray Mausoleum. In the evening, enjoy a traditional musical performance with local costumes.

Samarkand, Jewel of the Silk Road The day begins with a visit to the Ulugbek Observatory, built by Tamerlane’s grandson, renowned for his passion for astronomy and science. Continue to the Afrosiab Museum, where ancient frescoes reveal the rich history of Samarkand. Visit the royal necropolis of Shah-i-Zinda, one of Central Asia’s most beautiful architectural treasures. After lunch, visit the Bibi-Khanym Mosque and stroll through the colourful Siab Bazaar. Free time at the end of the day.

Samarkand – Bukhara Travel aboard the high-speed Afrosiab train to Bukhara, a must-see Silk Road city renowned for its madrasahs, mosques, mausoleums, and covered artisan markets. After hotel check-in and lunch, enjoy a walking tour through the old city. Discover Lyabi Hauz Square, the exterior of the Magok-i-Attari Mosque, and the Po-i-Kalyan complex featuring the Mir-i-Arab Madrasah, Kalon Mosque, and the city’s iconic minaret. Stops are also planned at the traditional domed trading bazaars.

Bukhara and an Artisan Encounter in Gijduvan Continue exploring Bukhara with visits to the Ark Fortress, former residence of the emirs of Bukhara, and the Bolo Haouz Mosque, once used by the royal family. Nearby, discover the Samanid Mausoleum dating back to the 9th century, considered the oldest Muslim mausoleum in Central Asia. Travel to Gijduvan for a privileged encounter with master ceramist Abdullo Narzullayev. Participate in the preparation of traditional Uzbek bread with his family before sharing lunch together. Return to the hotel and enjoy free time.

Bukhara and Its Surrounding Treasures Continue discovering the monuments located outside Bukhara, including the charming Chor Minor Madrasah, famous for its four minarets hidden within an old neighbourhood. Visit the Bahaouddin Nakchbandi Necropolis, one of the city’s holiest pilgrimage sites, followed by the Sitorai-Mokhi Khossa Summer Palace, former residence of the last emirs of Bukhara. Free time at the end of the day.

Bukhara – Khiva Departure by coach to Khiva for a journey of approximately 7 to 8 hours including a lunch stop. Upon arrival, hotel check-in and free time for a first introduction to this legendary Silk Road city.

Khiva and the Walled City of Itchan Kala Begin exploring the ancient walled city of Khiva, known as Itchan Kala. Walk along the city walls for panoramic views over this remarkably preserved historical site. Visit the Juma Mosque, famous for its 218 carved wooden columns, followed by the Tash Khaouli Palace, also known as the “Stone Palace,” featuring beautiful inner courtyards. After lunch, admire the Kalta Minor Minaret decorated with stunning blue and green majolica tiles before visiting the Sayyid Alla Uddin Mausoleum, the oldest monument in Khiva. Free time afterwards.

Khiva, Palaces and Mausoleums Continue discovering Khiva with the Mohammed Amin Khan Madrasah, a large Quranic school that once welcomed hundreds of students. Visit Kuhna Ark Palace, the former fortress and official residence of the Khivan khans, including the throne room, harem, chancery, and mint. After lunch, discover the Pakhlavan Makhmoud Mausoleum, admired for its magnificent majolica decorations in shades of blue and green. Free time.

Khiva – Dashoguz – Kunya Urgench – Ashgabat Transfer to the Shavat/Dashoguz border crossing and enter Turkmenistan. After lunch, continue by 4x4 vehicle to Kunya Urgench along rugged roads. Visit the Turabek Khanum monument, Sultan Tekesh Mausoleum, and Kutlug-Timur Minaret. Return to Dashoguz Airport for a nonstop flight to Ashgabat, the Turkmen capital.

Ashgabat and Ancient Nisa Today is dedicated to exploring Ashgabat, often nicknamed the “City of Love,” renowned for its marble palaces, golden domes, fountains, and grand avenues. Visit the National History Museum and the National Carpet Museum, showcasing one of Turkmenistan’s finest artistic traditions. Excursion to Nisa, the ancient Parthian capital dating back to the 3rd century BC, overlooking impressive desert landscapes. On the return journey, stop at the Gypjak Mosque. In the evening, enjoy a folkloric farewell dinner.

Ashgabat – Mary – Merv – Ashgabat Morning departure toward Mary and the oasis of Merv, once a major Silk Road crossroads and one of the great cities of the Muslim world. Explore the archaeological site of Merv, including the ancient fortified cities of Giaur-Kala, Erk-Kala, and Sultan-Kala, as well as the impressive Sultan Sanjar Mausoleum with its towering dome. Return to Mary for a short visit to the regional museum and the Russian Orthodox church. In the evening, nonstop flight back to Ashgabat.

Ashgabat ✈ Return Transfer to the airport in Ashgabat for your return flights to Canada with connections. End of this unforgettable guided Silk Road journey through Kyrgyzstan, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, and Turkmenistan.