Tour d’horizon de l’Ouzbékistan, du Kazakhstan et du Kirghizistan

Arrive in Almaty in the early morning and transfer to the hotel for some well-deserved rest after the flight. Later, begin your introduction to Kazakhstan’s largest city, beautifully situated beneath the snow-capped peaks of the Tien Shan. Start with a visit to the lively Green Bazaar, followed by a walk through Panfilov Park, home to the impressive wooden Zenkov Cathedral and the Memorial of Glory and Eternal Flame. Continue to Kok-Tobe Hill, one of Almaty’s most famous viewpoints, offering spectacular panoramic views across the city and surrounding mountains. Descend by cable car before continuing into the mountains to Medeo, renowned as one of the world’s highest skating rinks. From Medeo, take the cable car up to Shymbulak Ski Resort, reaching an altitude of around 3,200 metres. Enjoy breathtaking alpine scenery before returning to Almaty in the evening. Overnight in Almaty.

Almaty, Kok Tobe Mountain, Medeu, Shymbulak

Overnight: Almaty

Meals: Breakfast

After breakfast, depart Almaty and travel east towards one of Kazakhstan’s most spectacular natural attractions, Charyn Canyon. Often compared to the Grand Canyon, Charyn stretches for more than 150 kilometres and is renowned for its dramatic landscapes. Explore the famous Valley of Castles, where wind and water have carved the sandstone into impressive towers, cliffs, and fortress-like formations. Take a scenic walk down into the canyon, approximately 40 minutes, until reaching the Charyn River. Surrounded by striking red and orange rock walls, the area offers excellent opportunities for photography and quiet appreciation of the landscape. Enjoy lunch at a cosy café near the canyon before continuing to the Kolsay Lakes, a tranquil mountain destination nestled in the northern Tien Shan. Arrive in the late afternoon and settle into a welcoming guesthouse. Breathe in the fresh mountain air, admire the peaceful alpine surroundings, and enjoy a homemade dinner before relaxing for the evening. Overnight at a guesthouse near Kolsay Lakes.

Charyn Canyon, Kolsai lakes

• Almaty → Charyn Canyon
• Charyn Canyon → Kolsai lakes

Overnight: Kolsai lakes

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

By road, approximately 250 km. After breakfast, check out and continue to the extraordinary Kaindy Lake, famous for its mysterious submerged spruce forest. The lake was created following a powerful earthquake in 1911, when a landslide formed a natural dam and flooded the surrounding forest. Today, the weathered tree trunks rising dramatically from the turquoise waters create an unforgettable and almost otherworldly scene. Walk down from the hillside to the lake to enjoy the views, or, as an optional experience arranged locally, make the journey on horseback. On the return journey, stop at a local village home for a hearty homemade lunch. Continue towards the Kegen border, where you will complete the necessary crossing formalities before entering Kyrgyzstan. From the border, continue by road to Karakol, a charming town located at the foot of the Tien Shan mountains. Overnight in Karakol.

Kaindy Lake, Karakol, Kolsai lakes

• Kolsai lakes → Kaindy Lake
• Kaindy Lake → Karakol (250 km)

Overnight: Karakol

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Today, discover the cultural and historical highlights of Karakol. Begin with a visit to the colourful Dungan Mosque, a remarkable wooden structure built without the use of nails. Continue to the Holy Trinity Russian Orthodox Cathedral, another beautiful example of the town’s distinctive architectural heritage. The morning concludes with a visit to the museum dedicated to Nikolay Przhevalsky, the renowned Russian explorer whose expeditions contributed greatly to the mapping and study of Central Asia. Later, head into the mountains to explore the spectacular Jety-Oguz Gorge, meaning “Seven Bulls.” The gorge is famous for its dramatic red sandstone formations rising above dense green spruce forests. Admire the legendary rock formations known as the Seven Bulls and the Broken Heart, while enjoying the striking contrast between the red cliffs and surrounding mountain scenery. Return to Karakol and check into the hotel for a relaxing evening. Overnight in Karakol.

Jeti Oguz, Karakol

• Karakol → Jeti Oguz
• Jeti Oguz → Karakol

Overnight: Karakol

Meals: Breakfast

By road, approximately 250 km. After breakfast, continue along the southern shore of Lake Issyk-Kul, one of Kyrgyzstan’s most spectacular natural landscapes. Visit Skazka Canyon, or the “Fairytale Canyon,” where centuries of wind and water erosion have transformed colourful red and yellow clay into dramatic towers, ridges, and castle-like formations. Some formations are even said to resemble sections of the Great Wall of China. Continue to Bokonbaevo village, where you will have the opportunity to meet local eagle hunters and witness a traditional falconry demonstration. This ancient Kyrgyz tradition has been passed down through generations and remains an important part of the region’s cultural heritage. Enjoy lunch during the journey before continuing towards Kochkor, a welcoming village renowned for its traditional felt handicrafts. Arrive in Kochkor in the evening, followed by dinner and a relaxing overnight stay. Overnight in Kochkor.

Bokonbaevo, Kochkor, Skazka Canyon

• Karakol → Skazka Canyon
• Skazka Canyon → Bokonbaevo
• Bokonbaevo → Kochkor (250 km)

Overnight: Kochkor

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

By road, approximately 200 km. Begin the day by discovering one of Kyrgyzstan’s most distinctive traditional crafts with a felt-making master class in Kochkor. Local artisans will introduce you to the traditional techniques used to create colourful shyrdaks, the famous Kyrgyz felt carpets. Learn about the craftsmanship, patterns, and symbolism behind these intricate designs, with the opportunity to experience the process yourself. After the workshop, depart for Bishkek, arriving in the afternoon. Overnight in Bishkek.

Bishkek, Kochkor

• Kochkor → Bishkek (200 km)

Overnight: Bishkek

Meals: Breakfast

Evening flight. After breakfast, enjoy a guided sightseeing tour of Bishkek. Begin with the Monument to Manas, dedicated to the legendary hero of Kyrgyz epic tradition. Continue to Ala-Too Square, the city’s main central square, where you can witness the ceremonial Changing of the Guard. Visit the State Historical Museum to discover more about Kyrgyzstan’s rich and complex history, followed by stops at monuments dedicated to important historical figures, including Kurmanjan-Datka and Lenin. Take a relaxing walk through leafy Oak Park, known for its sculptures, green spaces, and Fine Arts Gallery. In the afternoon, transfer to the airport for your evening flight to Tashkent. Upon arrival, transfer to the hotel, check in, and relax. Overnight in Tashkent.

Bishkek, Tashkent

• Bishkek → Tashkent

Overnight: Tashkent

Meals: Breakfast

Evening train. Today, explore Tashkent, Uzbekistan’s vibrant capital, where historic neighbourhoods and modern city life come together. Begin at Khast-Imam Square, the spiritual heart of the city, surrounded by historic madrasahs, mosques, and mausoleums. Continue to the colourful Chorsu Bazaar, where you can experience the lively atmosphere of local trade while browsing stalls filled with spices, fresh produce, dried fruits, textiles, and handicrafts. After lunch, visit Independence Square and Amir Temur Square, two of the city’s most prominent public spaces. A highlight of the day is a ride through the Tashkent Metro, famous for its elaborately decorated stations, each with its own distinctive artistic character. In the evening, board a comfortable train to Samarkand, the legendary jewel of the Silk Road. Upon arrival, transfer to the hotel and enjoy a well-earned rest. Overnight in Samarkand.

Samarkand, Tashkent

• Tashkent → Samarkand

Overnight: Samarkand

Meals: Breakfast

After breakfast, dedicate the day to discovering the magnificent city of Samarkand, one of the most celebrated destinations of the ancient Silk Road. Begin at the spectacular Registan Square, surrounded by three magnificent madrasahs: Ulugbek, Sher-Dor, and Tilla-Qori. Their richly decorated façades and intricate tilework make Registan one of the most impressive architectural ensembles in Central Asia. Continue to the Gur-e Amir Mausoleum, the final resting place of Tamerlane and members of his dynasty. Admire its elegant turquoise dome and richly decorated interior. After lunch, visit the monumental Bibi-Khanym Mosque, once among the largest mosques in the Islamic world. Continue to the atmospheric Shah-i-Zinda Necropolis, a remarkable complex of blue-tiled mausoleums arranged along a historic medieval passage. End the day at the Ulugbek Observatory, where the celebrated astronomer Ulugbek studied and charted the stars centuries ago. Return to the hotel for the evening. Overnight in Samarkand.

Bibi-Khanym Mosque and Mausoleum​, Gur-e Amir Mausoleum, Registan, Shah i Zinda, Ulugbek Observatory

Overnight: Samarkand

Meals: Breakfast

By road, approximately 280 km. After breakfast, depart for Bukhara, one of the most atmospheric and historically significant cities of the Silk Road. The journey crosses the vast Kyzylkum plains, landscapes once traversed by caravans travelling between the great oasis cities of Central Asia. Upon arrival in Bukhara, begin exploring the historic old town, where ancient domes, mosques, madrasahs, and narrow streets preserve the atmosphere of a bygone era. Visit the magnificent Po-i-Kalyan Complex, dominated by its famous minaret, which once served as a landmark for travellers approaching the city. Continue to the Miri-Arab Madrasa, Magoki-Attori Mosque, and Ulugbek Madrasa, each reflecting Bukhara’s long tradition of religious scholarship and architecture. End the day at Lyabi-Hauz Square, a peaceful gathering place centred around a historic pool and shaded by mature mulberry trees. Check into the hotel and enjoy a relaxing evening. Overnight in Bukhara.

Bukhara, Poi Kalyan, lyabi-hauz-ensemble

• Samarkand → Bukhara (280 km)

Overnight: Bukhara

Meals: Breakfast

After breakfast, continue your exploration of historic Bukhara. Begin with the Ismail Samani Mausoleum, one of the finest surviving examples of early Islamic architecture, followed by the Chashma Ayub Mausoleum, associated with the ancient legend of the Prophet Job. Explore the lively local bazaar before visiting the elegant Bolo-Khauz Mosque and the imposing Ark Citadel, the historic heart of Bukhara’s rulers. Within the citadel area, discover the old Zindan prison, offering a glimpse into the more dramatic chapters of the city’s past. In the afternoon, venture beyond the city centre to the magnificent Sitorai Mokhi-Khosa Palace, the former summer residence of the last emir of Bukhara. Continue to the Mausoleum of Bakhouddin Naqshbandi, one of the most important pilgrimage sites in Central Asia. As evening approaches, enjoy a special cultural and culinary experience in a traditional Uzbek home. Take part in a plov master class, learning from local hosts how to prepare Uzbekistan’s most famous dish. Afterwards, sit down together to enjoy a homemade dinner and experience the warmth of Uzbek hospitality. Overnight in Bukhara.

Bakhauddin Naqshband Mausoleum​, Bukhara, Sitori-i Mokhi Khosa palace

Overnight: Bukhara

Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Afternoon train. After breakfast, enjoy a relaxed final morning in Bukhara. Take some time to wander through the atmospheric old town and soak up the city’s unique combination of historic architecture, traditional bazaars, and everyday local life. After check-out, enjoy a leisurely guided walk through the old streets and capture your final impressions of this remarkable Silk Road city. In the afternoon, transfer to the railway station for a comfortable high-speed train journey to Tashkent. Upon arrival, meet your driver and transfer to the hotel for check-in and an evening at leisure. Overnight in Tashkent.

Bukhara, Tashkent

• Bukhara → Tashkent

Overnight: Tashkent

Meals: Breakfast

Enjoy breakfast at the hotel before check-out by 12:00. At the appropriate time, transfer to the international airport for your onward flight. Your journey through Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, and Uzbekistan comes to an end, leaving you with unforgettable memories of dramatic mountain landscapes, ancient Silk Road cities, vibrant local traditions, and warm Central Asian hospitality.

Meals: Breakfast

Total Price: USD 2,730 per person (shared basis). Single accommodation supplement: USD 395. Including economy-class flight ticket from Urgench to Tashkent. Day 12 | Bukhara - Khiva By road, approximately 460 km. After breakfast, leave Bukhara and embark on a scenic journey towards Khiva. The route takes us across the vast Kyzylkum Desert and alongside the Amudarya River, following landscapes that have connected the great Silk Road cities for centuries. Enjoy lunch en route before continuing to Khiva, one of Central Asia’s best-preserved medieval cities. Upon arrival, step into the atmospheric old town, where ancient walls, turquoise domes, minarets, and narrow lanes create the feeling of an open-air museum. The remainder of the day is at leisure. Take a leisurely stroll through the historic streets, browse local bazaars, discover traditional artisan workshops, or simply enjoy the unique atmosphere of this remarkable Silk Road city. Overnight in Khiva. Day 13 | Khiva - Urgench - Tashkent By road, approximately 30 km. Evening flight. After breakfast, spend the morning exploring Ichan-Kala, the magnificent walled heart of Khiva and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Walk through the historic old town and discover some of its most remarkable architectural treasures, including the Pakhlavan Mahmud Mausoleum, Kunya-Ark Fortress, Islam Hajji Minaret, Tash Khauli Palace, Juma Mosque, and Muhammad Aminkhan Madrasah. After lunch, continue to the Avesta Museum, dedicated to the ancient Zoroastrian traditions and the history surrounding the Avesta, one of the world’s oldest religious texts. Later, transfer to Urgench Airport for your evening flight to Tashkent. Upon arrival, transfer to the hotel and relax after the journey. Overnight in Tashkent. Day 14 | Tashkent - Departure After breakfast, check out of the hotel and transfer to the international airport for your onward flight. Depending on your flight schedule, breakfast will be served at the hotel or a packed breakfast/lunch box will be provided for the journey. Your unforgettable Central Asian adventure comes to an end, taking with you lasting memories of the mountains and landscapes of Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan, as well as the legendary Silk Road cities of Uzbekistan.

Bukhara, Khiva, Tashkent

• Bukhara → Khiva (460 km)
• Khiva → Tashkent

Overnight: Tashkent

Meals: Breakfast