4 Central Asian Stans in depth Tour
In depth Tour to Four Stans:
Kazakhstan - Kyrgyzstan – Uzbekistan – Tajikistan
TOUR DETAILS
-
Period
May - October -
Tour length
17 days / 16 nights -
Optional
Extention to 18 days with Khiva - Price 3290 USD / person
TOUR HIGHLIGHTS
Enjoy on a 17-day adventure across 4 Stans: Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan, and Tajikistan, where the ancient Silk Road weaves together breathtaking landscapes and timeless cultures. Journey from the dramatic Charyn Canyon and crystal-clear Kolsayand Kaindy Lakes to the pastoral beauty of Kyrgyz mountain villages and the colorful bazaars of Bishkek. Continue through the living history of Tashkent, Samarkand, and Bukhara, where ornate madrasahs and turquoise domes whisper tales of centuries past. Explore Istaravshan, Penjikent, and the mystical Seven Lakes, uncovering Tajikistan’s hidden soul amid mountain serenity. This journey is a tapestry of nature, heritage, and hospitality — an immersive discovery of Central Asia’s heart and spirit.
Itinerary: Almaty – Charyn Canyon – Kolsay Lakes – Kaindy – Karakol – Djety-Oguz gorge – Skazka – Bokonbaevo village – Kochkor – Bishkek – Tashkent – Khujand – Istaravshan – Penjikent – 7 Lakes – Samarkand – Bukhara – Tashkent
THREE STAN TOUR ITINERARY
Day 1 Almaty, arrival
We arrive in Almaty early in the morning and transfer to the hotel for rest after the flight. Later we begin a full-day discovery of Kazakhstan’s largest city, set against the backdrop of the snowy Tien Shan mountains. Our first stop is the colorful Green Bazaar, followed by a stroll through Panfilov Park, home to the striking wooden Zenkov Cathedral and the moving Memorial of Glory and Eternal Flame.
Next, we ride up to Kok-Tobe Hill, crowned by the city’s TV tower, where sweeping views over Almaty open before us. We descend by the famous cableway and continue into the mountains. At Medeo, the world’s highest skating rink, we pause before ascending by cable car to Shymbulak Ski Resort, reaching 3,200 meters for breathtaking alpine panoramas. Return to the hotel in the evening. Overnight in Almaty.
breakfast
Day 2 Almaty - Charyn Canyon - Kolsay Lakes by road, 440 km
After breakfast, we set out eastward toward one of Kazakhstan’s most breathtaking natural wonders — Charyn Canyon. Often called the “little brother” of the Grand Canyon, this spectacular gorge stretches for more than 150 km. Within two hours, we reach the famous Valley of Castles, where centuries of wind and rain have sculpted the sandstone cliffs into shapes resembling ancient fortresses. We’ll walk down into the canyon for about 40 minutes until we reach the Charyn River, surrounded by vivid red and orange walls — a perfect spot for photos and quiet admiration.
Lunch will be served at a cozy café near the canyon, offering a chance to relax before we continue our journey to the Kolsay Lakes — a pristine mountain paradise nestled in the northern Tien Shan range. On arrival in the late afternoon, you’ll be greeted by fresh mountain air and serene alpine scenery. Check into a welcoming guesthouse, enjoy a home-style dinner, and rest after a day filled with adventure and stunning landscapes.
breakfast, lunch, dinner
Day 3 Kolsay Lakes - Kaindy - "Kegen" land border - Karakol by road, 250 km
After breakfast, we check out and set off to Kaindy Lake, a mystical place formed after a powerful earthquake in 1911. A landslide created a natural dam, flooding a spruce forest whose ghostly trunks still rise from the turquoise water. This hauntingly beautiful “sunken forest” must be seen to be believed.
We walk from the slope down to the lake for breathtaking views, or, alternatively, ride on horseback (optional, arranged by locals). On the way back, we stop at a village home for a hearty, homemade lunch. In the afternoon we continue to the Kegen border. After crossing into Kyrgyzstan and completing formalities, we drive to Karakol, a charming town at the foot of the Tien Shan mountains. Overnight at the hotel.
breakfast, lunch
Day 4 Karakol & Jety-Oguz Gorge
This morning we discover Karakol’s cultural gems. We start at the colorful Dungan Mosque, built entirely of wood without a single nail, then step into the wooden Russian Orthodox Cathedral of the Holy Trinity. Our final stop is the museum of Nikolay Przhevalsky, the Russian explorer who mapped much of Central Asia.
Later we drive into the mountains to the famous Jety-Oguz Gorge (“Seven Bulls”), where dramatic red cliffs rise above the lush spruce forests. Here we admire the striking rock formations known as the “Seven Bulls” and the “Broken Heart.” The vivid contrast of red sandstone and dark green woods makes this one of the most beautiful places in Kyrgyzstan. Return to Karakol for hotel check-in and rest.
breakfast
Day 5 Karakol - Skazka canyon - Bokonbaevo village - Kochkor village by road, 250 km
After breakfast, we follow the southern shore of Lake Issyk-Kul toward the Skazka (“Fairytale”) Canyon. Shaped by wind and water over millions of years, the red and yellow clay has been sculpted into towers, castles, and ridges—some resembling the Great Wall of China. A short walk here feels like stepping into another world.
Continuing to Bokonbaevo village, we meet local eagle hunters and watch a traditional falconry demonstration, an ancient practice that has been passed down for generations. Lunch will be arranged on the way.
In the evening, we reach Kochkor, a village famous for its felt handicrafts and warm welcomes. Dinner and overnight in Kochkor.
breakfast, lunch, dinner
Day 6 Kochkor - Bishkek by road, 200 km
This morning, we immerse ourselves in Kyrgyz traditions with a felt-making master class in Kochkor. Skilled artisans demonstrate how colorful shyrdaks (felt carpets) are crafted, and we join in to learn about the symbolism behind their intricate designs.
Afterward, we return to Bishkek, arriving in the afternoon. The rest of the day is free: a perfect chance to explore the lively Osh Bazaar, where stalls overflow with fragrant spices, dried fruits, textiles, and handicrafts. It’s the ideal place to experience the rhythm of local life and perhaps pick up some souvenirs. Overnight in Bishkek.
breakfast
Day 7 Bishkek - Tashkent by evening flight
After breakfast we set off on a guided city tour of Bishkek. We’ll begin with the Monument to Manas, the legendary hero of Kyrgyz epics, then head to Ala-Too Square to watch the solemn Changing of the Guard.
At the State Historical Museum we trace the story of Kyrgyzstan, while statues of Kurmanjan-Datka and Lenin remind us of the country’s contrasting past. A walk through leafy Oak Park, dotted with sculptures and the Fine Arts Gallery, offers a pleasant pause. In the afternoon, we transfer to the airport for our evening flight to Tashkent. Upon arrival, transfer to the hotel, check-in, and overnight.
breakfast
Day 8 Tashkent
Today we discover Uzbekistan’s bustling capital, where old and new meet in surprising harmony.
We’ll visit the spiritual heart of the city – Khast-Imam Square, home to ancient madrasahs and mausoleums, and wander through the colorful Chorsu Bazaar, alive with the aromas of spices, fresh produce, and handicrafts. After lunch, we’ll explore Independence Square and Amir Temur Square, wide spaces framed by impressive architecture. One highlight not to miss is the Tashkent Metro, famous for its ornate stations that feel like an underground art gallery. Overnight in Tashkent.
breakfast
Day 9 Tashkent - "Oybek" land border - Khujand by road, 160 km
After breakfast we drive toward the Uzbek-Tajik border at Oybek, complete formalities, and continue to Khujand, one of the oldest cities in Central Asia. On arrival, we enjoy a city tour: strolling through bustling Panjshanbe Bazaar, visiting the historical Museum of Khujand, and seeing the city’s fortress walls. The mix of ancient history and modern Tajik life makes Khujand an unforgettable introduction to the country. Overnight in Khujand.
breakfast
Day 10 Khujand - Istaravshan - Penjikent by road, 260 km
After breakfast we leave Khujand and set out towards Istaravshan, a city with more than 2,500 years of history and once an important stop along the Great Silk Road. Here we explore its bustling bazaars and historic sites, including Kuk-Gumbaz Mosque and the colorful caravanserai-style markets, where traditional craftsmanship is still alive.
Continuing our journey, we drive through dramatic mountain landscapes to Penjikent, often called the “Pompeii of Central Asia” thanks to its fascinating ruins of ancient Sogdian settlements. On arrival we settle into the hotel, with time to rest before dinner. Overnight in Penjikent.
breakfast
Day 11 Penjikent - 7 Lakes - "Jartepa" land border - Samarkand by road, 180 km
After breakfast we explore Penjikent’s surroundings, beginning with the Sarazm ruins, a UNESCO World Heritage Site dating back more than 5,500 years — one of the earliest settlements in Central Asia. We then visit the Rudaki Museum, dedicated to the great Persian poet, and wander through the lively local bazaar, where everyday Tajik life unfolds in a swirl of colors and aromas.
Later, we journey into the Fan Mountains to discover the enchanting Seven Lakes of Marguzor. Each lake has its own character and color, ranging from deep sapphire to shimmering turquoise, shaped by light, altitude, and legend. Today we’ll visit six of them, stopping for a traditional lunch at a local family home near the fourth lake. Short walks along the lakeshores will give us time to absorb the mountain serenity.
In the afternoon, we return to Penjikent and proceed to the Jartepa border crossing. After formalities, we cross into Uzbekistan and continue to Samarkand, the jewel of the Silk Road. Accommodation at the hotel and rest. Overnight in Samarkand.
breakfast, lunch
Day 12 Samarkand
After breakfast we set off to discover the treasures of Samarkand, one of the most dazzling cities of the Silk Road. Our tour begins at the iconic Registan Square, framed by three grand madrasahs – Ulugbek, Sher-Dor, and Tilla-Qori – each a masterpiece of Islamic architecture. We continue to the Gur-e Amir Mausoleum, the resting place of Tamerlane and his dynasty, with its turquoise dome and richly decorated interiors.
After lunch, we visit the Bibi-Khanym Mosque, once one of the largest in the Islamic world, and wander through the Shah-i-Zinda Necropolis, where vibrant blue-tiled mausoleums line a narrow medieval street. The day ends at the Ulugbek Observatory, where the great astronomer charted the stars centuries ago. Return to the hotel for overnight.
breakfast
Day 13 Samarkand
This morning we dive deeper into Samarkand’s history and culture. We begin at the Afrosiab Museum and nearby archaeological site, which reveal the ancient roots of the city long before the Timurid era. Then we visit the tomb of Saint Daniel, a unique pilgrimage site venerated by Muslims, Christians, and Jews alike.
Later, we explore the Khujum carpet factory and a silk paper workshop, where age-old crafts are preserved and practiced with pride. Finally, we stroll through the bustling Siab Bazaar, a lively market brimming with spices, dried fruits, nuts, and handicrafts – the perfect place to experience the flavors and energy of modern Samarkand.
Return to the hotel in the afternoon. Evening at leisure. Overnight in Samarkand.
breakfast
Day 14 Samarkand - Bukhara by morning train
After breakfast we transfer to the railway station and take a morning train across the steppe to Bukhara (09:55–11:38). On arrival, we begin exploring this legendary Silk Road city, a place that once rivalled great cultural capitals of the Islamic world.
Highlights include the Ismail Samani Mausoleum, a masterpiece of early Islamic architecture; the Chashma Ayub Mausoleum, linked to the legend of the Prophet Job; and the bustling local bazaar. We continue to Bolo Khauz Mosque, the mighty Ark Citadel with its Zindan prison, and the Po-i-Kalyan Complex with its soaring minaret, madrasa, and mosque. Our tour also covers the Miri Arab Madrasa, the Magoki Attori Mosque, and Ulugbek Madrasa. The day concludes at the tranquil Lyabi-Hauz Square, where mulberry trees shade the reflecting pool and local life unfolds around us. In the evening, we settle into our hotel for rest.
breakfast
Day 15 Bukhara
We spend the morning outside the city walls to see some of Bukhara’s most atmospheric sites: the Sitorai Mokhi-Khosa Palace, once the opulent summer residence of the last emir; the Chor Bakr Necropolis, often called the “City of the Dead”; and the Mausoleum of Bakhouddin Naqshbandi, a revered Sufi pilgrimage site.
Returning to Bukhara, the afternoon is free to explore the old town at your own pace. In the evening, we are welcomed into a traditional local home for an authentic cultural experience. Here we’ll take part in a master class on cooking plov, Uzbekistan’s most famous dish, learning its secrets step by step. Afterward, we’ll share a delicious dinner with the family, enjoying warm hospitality and stories of local life. Overnight at the hotel.
breakfast
Day 16 Bukhara - Tashkent by afternoon train
This morning, we continue our discovery of Bukhara — a living museum beneath the open sky. We visit the beautifully preserved Ismail Samani Mausoleum, one of the oldest brick buildings in the Islamic world, and the nearby Chashma-Ayub Mausoleum, said to mark the spot where the Prophet Job struck water from the earth.
We’ll wander through the lively bazaar, where the air is filled with the scent of spices and the sparkle of silk, before visiting the graceful Bolo-Khauz Mosque and the mighty Ark Citadel, once home to the emirs of Bukhara.
In the afternoon, transfer to the train station for a comfortable ride to Tashkent. Upon arrival, transfer to the hotel for rest.
breakfast
Day 17 Tashkent, departure
Breakfast at the hotel and check-out before 12:00. Transfer to the international airport for your onward flight — carrying with you warm memories and vivid impressions of your unforgettable journey through Central Asia.
breakfast
Optional Day 18 Khiva Extention
Day 17 & Day 18 with Khiva Extension
Cost of the tour is 3510 USD upon twin sharing basis
Supplement for single accommodation is 545 USD
Including Flight ticket Urgench – Tashkent (economy class).
Day 17 Khiva – Urgench by road, 30 km / Evening flight to Tashkent by evening flight
After breakfast we explore Ichan-Kala, the walled inner city of Khiva and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its mudbrick walls, minarets, and madrassahs create one of the most atmospheric cities in Central Asia. Highlights include the Pakhlavan Mahmud Mausoleum, the Kunya-Ark Fortress, and the tall Islam Hajji Minaret. After lunch, we visit the ornate Tash Khauli Palace, the Juma Mosque with its 200 carved wooden columns, the Muhammad Aminkhan Madrasah, and the Avesta Museum. In the evening we transfer to Urgench for the flight to Tashkent. Upon arrival, transfer to the hotel, check-in and rest.
breakfast
Day 18 Tashkent, departure
Breakfast at the hotel and check-out before 12:00. Transfer to the international airport for your onward flight — carrying with you warm memories and vivid impressions of your unforgettable journey through Central Asia.
breakfast
TOUR INFORMATION
Tour price includes:
- Accommodation at the hotels listed below, or at similar properties of the same category, in double/twin rooms with breakfast. Early check-in on Day 1 in Almaty is included; check-in at other hotels is at 14:00, check-out at 12:00.
- Accommodation at the guest house in Kolsay (twin accommodation).
- Meals – daily breakfasts, 4 lunches, and 3 dinners (incl. a cooking class in Bukhara) as per the program.
- Entrance fees to the monuments and museums mentioned in the itinerary.
- Falconry demonstration and felt-making master class in Kyrgyzstan.
- Services of English-speaking local guides for sightseeing.
- Comfortable air-conditioned transportation throughout the tour, including all airport–hotel–airport transfers.
- Railway transfer from Samarkand to Bukhara (economy class).
- Flight ticket Bishkek – Tashkent (economy class).
* Tickets for high-speed trains are subject to availability and cannot be guaranteed in advance.
Tour price does not include:
- International flight tickets.
- Meals not mentioned above.
- Medical expenses and travel insurance.
- Porterage at hotels, railway stations, and airports.
- Tips for guides and drivers.
17 – Day Four Stan Itinerary
Cost of the Group tour is 3290 USD per person, twin sharing basis
Supplement for single accommodation is 520 USD
We can organize this tour as a Private tour in 2026
Cost of the Private tour, price Per Person
| Group | Hotels 3★ | Hotels 4★ |
|---|---|---|
| 1 pax | 8665 USD | 9347 USD |
| 2–3 pax | 5103 USD | 5529 USD |
| 4–5 pax | 3631 USD | 4006 USD |
| 6–7 pax | 3163 USD | 3545 USD |
| 8–9 pax | 2921 USD | 3318 USD |
| 10–11 pax | 2770 USD | 3157 USD |
Supplement for single accommodation +440 USD and +610 USD
18 – Day Four Stan Itinerary with Khiva Extension
Cost of the Group tour is 3510 USD per person, twin sharing basis
Supplement for single accommodation is 545 USD
Including Flight ticket Urgench – Tashkent (economy class).
Private tour, Cost of the Private tour, Price Per Person
| Group Size | Hotels 3* | Hotels 4* |
|---|---|---|
| 1 pax | 8,987 USD | 9,717 USD |
| 2–3 pax | 5,304 USD | 5,762 USD |
| 4–5 pax | 3,813 USD | 4,222 USD |
| 6–7 pax | 3,335 USD | 3,757 USD |
| 8–9 pax | 3,097 USD | 3,534 USD |
| 10–11 pax | 2,941 USD | 3,370 USD |
Supplement for single accommodation +460 USD and +650 USD
Accommodation
City | Hotels 3* | |||
Almaty | Grand Sapphire 3* or similar | |||
Kolsay Lakes | Alban / Taushelek guesthouse | |||
Karakol | Green Yard 3* or similar | |||
Kochkor | Nomad Lodge Hotel / Bagysh Hotel | |||
Bishkek | Bishkek Boutique 3* or similar | |||
Tashkent | Human 3* or similar | |||
Khujand | Khujand Deluxe Hotel 4* or similar | |||
Penjikent | Panjakent Plaza Hotel or similar | |||
Samarkand | Arba 3* or similar | |||
Bukhara | Rangrez 3* or similar | |||
Transportation (by group size)
Group size | Vehicle |
1-2 travelers | Chevrolet Lacetti or similar |
4 travelers | Hyundai Starex minivan for 6 seats |
6-8 travelers | King Long minivan for 10 seats or similar |
9-14 travelers | Eurise minivan for 18 seats or similar |
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Tour updated: 24.10.2025