Tours
4 Stans Combi Tour
Embark on an unforgettable adventure through Central Asia, where the historic Silk Road cities of Uzbekistan and the surreal landscapes of Turkmenistan promise a journey of discovery. Traverse the diverse landscapes and cultures of Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, and Uzbekistan, immersing yourself in their rich tapestry of heritage and tradition.
Day 1
ARRIVAL IN ASTANA
Arrival in Kazakhstan’s capital city Astana (also Nur Sultan)... You ’ll be met at the airport and transported to a hotel (Ramada 4* or similar). Free time for rest. In the evening all tours’ participants are meeting in the hotel lobby and heading to a national restaurant to have a delicious welcome dinner. Let’s get to know each other before kicking off our breathtaking journey in Central Asia! Return to the hotel. Personal time. We’ll see you tomorrow!
Day 2
FULL DAY IN ASTANA
In the morning after breakfast we’re starting our Central Asian adventure in Kazakhstan... Excited? - So are we! Let’s explore Astana and see what it has to offer: “From futuristic skyscrapers to historic landmarks”. Beginning our city excursion with the symbol of Astana - Bayterek Tower, offering panoramic views of the capital from its observation deck. Strolling down the Nurzhol Boulevard. We’ll pass by numerous modern architectural marvels, including the Presidential Palace. Visiting Khan Shatyr entertainment center - a giant transparent tent (one of the world's largest tent structures). Lunch time: enjoying traditional Kazakh cuisine at one of the many restaurants. Visiting the National Museum of Kazakhstan (the biggest in the country). Visiting one of the largest mosques in Central Asia - Hazrat Sultan. Well, now we’re finishing our informative city tour and letting you have some personal time. You can either go directly to the hotel or continue exploring the evening Astana on your own. We’ll see you tomorrow!
Day 3
ALMATY CITY TOUR
In the morning after breakfast we are good and ready for the new exciting discoveries!... Heading to the airport to catch a quick domestic flight to Almaty (1 hour, 40 minutes) - also known as “the south capital” of Kazakhstan. Upon arrival in this charming city we’re checking in to a hotel (Plaza 3* or similar) and diving into the exploration of Almaty straight away. The first place to visit will be Panfilov Park, the oldest park in Almaty. The next point - Green Bazaar (traditional market) is just a short walk away. Enjoy this vibrant marketplace by tasting Kazakh snacks, trying on national attires and acquiring memorable souvenirs. Republic Square - is a significant city site symbolizing Kazakhstan’s independence. Lunch in a restaurant. Medeo - is one of the world’s largest high-altitude skating rinks and ski resorts. Using a cable car to reach the top plateau where we’re going to have a nice coffee break contemplating the scenery. Return back to the city center. Kok Tobe (Green Hill from Kazakh language) is the loveliest recreational park located on a hilltop. Riding up to the park in a cable car and spending a beautiful sunset time there. Well, this is the end of our cultural part of Almaty. Enjoy your evening time!
Day 4
ALMATY - CHARYN CANYON - KOLSAY LAKE
In the morning after breakfast we’re hitting the road and making our way towards the famous Charyn canyon - often called the Grand Canyon's little brother (3 hours)... Upon arrival we’re having a beautiful time for Charyn’s exploration: hiking and taking pictures. Lunch in a cafe. Now we’re moving on and heading towards the enchanting Kolsay lakes (2 hours) that are also referred to as the "Pearls of the Tien Shan”. Hidden among the conifer forests and tall peaks of the Tien Shan mountains, these small alpine lakes are located in the southeastern part of Kazakhstan, along the border with Kyrgyzstan. Upon arrival we’re checking in to a lovely hotel overlooking the first of the three lakes (Kolsay Nomads). Free time for walking around and enjoying the crispy alpine air. Personal time. Dinner at the hotel. Tomorrow we’re diving deep into exploring two lakes of Kolsay and also another hidden gem - Kaindy lake.
Day 5
KOLSAY - KAINDY LAKE - KOLSAY
In the morning after breakfast we’re embarking on a one day adventure to inspect the local beauties... Location number 1 will be the first lake of Kolsay. Hiking farther for about 8km through the flat forest terrain we’ll reach the second lake. Free time for contemplating the views and taking some nice photographs. Return to the hotel, lunch time. After that we’re hopping in the bus and driving shortly (12km) till our next destination - the famous turquoise lake Kaindy with spruce trees sticking out of water. This picturesque alpine lake emerged as the result of a massive landslide in the area caused by the devastating “Kemin earthquake” in 1911. Free time for enjoying this magical place. Return back to the hotel in Kolsay. Free time for rest. Dinner time.
Day 6
KOLSAY - KEGEN - KARAKOL
Today is a very exciting day, since for the first time in our journey, we’re switching countries and kicking off our next adventure in Kyrgyzstan... In the morning after breakfast, happy and energized, we are continuing our voyage. Driving through the atmospheric, desert-like scenery towards the remote land border between Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan (3 hours). Saying goodbye and thank you to Kazakhstan, and passing through “Kegen” border control. As soon as we happen on the other side, in Kyrgyzstan, we’re driving to the nearest town of Karakol (3 hours). Lunch on the way (lunch boxes). Karakol is a charming small town located in the eastern part of Kyrgyzstan, about 400km away from its capital city of Bishkek. Reaching the town in the afternoon. Check in to a hotel (Karagat, 78 or similar). Free time for rest. Dinner in a national restaurant. Personal time.
Day 7
KARAKOL - ENELCHEK - KARAKOL
Alright, alright, alright! Let’s start the Kyrgyzstan chapter! Today is a very special day since we’re adding a tiny touch of creepiness to our “culturaladventure-tour”... And that is - visiting the ghost town of Enelchek. Enelchek Valley is a remote and scarcely populated area in the eastern part of Kyrgyzstan, notable mainly for its proximity to some of the country's most spectacular natural wonders, including the Enelchek Glacier (one of the largest glaciers in the world outside the polar regions). The town is located close to the Chinese border and therefore we’ll have to pass through one of the checkpoints with special permits. Upon arrival in Enelchek we are having some cool time to walk around the place (pretending we’re in a movie), take some crazy pictures to brag about, and a cherry on the cake’s top - we are going to have a relaxing swim in the wildest possible natural hot springs. You’ll love it! Lunch time (lunch boxes). Return back to Karakol. Rest time in the hotel. Now we’re starting a lovely city excursion of Karakol itself: Dungan Mosque (1910), Holy Trinity Church (1985) and local old architecture. Dinner in a restaurant. Personal time.
Day 8
KARAKOL - SKI BASE - JETI OGUZ VALLEY - KARAKOL
Today we’re exploring Karakol and its surroundings. In the morning after breakfast we’re heading to the best ski resort of Kyrgyzstan... In winter you would have a beautiful skiing experience here but in summer you will enjoy no less stunning views of the whole region. Luscious green meadows, vast conifer forests, snow capped mountain peaks, glaciers and the entire lake in the background - it’s all about this Ski resort. The chair lift will take us up to the height of 3040 meters above sea level. Walking on the plateau and enjoying the views. Return back to Karakol. Visiting a souvenir shop. Lunch in a restaurant. Now we’re heading to Jeti Oguz valley (Seven Bulls), famous for its red rock formations. Driving deep into the valley through several river bridges we’re arriving at “jailoo” (alpine pasture). Here we’re going to have a beautiful walk uphill till the hidden “Maiden Braids” waterfall (1,5 hours both ways). Tea time in the nature. Return back to Karakol. Rest time at the hotel. Dinner in a restaurant. Personal time.
Day 9
KARAKOL - BARSKOON VALLEY - SKAZKA CANYON - KAJI SAY
In the morning after breakfast we’re resuming our way along the south coast of Issyk Kul lake... Visiting the picturesque Barskoon valley: here we are going to hike to the 3 popular waterfalls and have an epic drive up to “Arabel” mountain pass (3800 meters). Lunch. Moving on. Visiting the fascinating Skazka (Fairy Tale) canyon for an easy but charming walk. This canyon got its name because of all the fancy claystone formations here, which have been moulded by the winds and rains for ages. Explore the fairy tale castles, the Chinese Wall and various animals’ silhouettes. Resuming the road and driving shortly to Kaji Say village. Check in to a hotel (Nataly or similar). Free time for rest. Dinner at the hotel. Personal time.
Day 10
KAJI SAY - AK SAI VILLAGE - ORTO TOKOI - SON KOL LAKE
Today, by the evening we’ll switch regions and transition from Issyk Kul to Naryn area... In the morning after breakfast we’re hitting the road and driving to the nearby village of Bokonbaevo. Stocking up some food for the loveliest picnic ahead. Moving on and heading to the neighboring village of Ak Sai. Here, we’re meeting the local “Berkutchi” (eagle man) and it is the time for a jaw-dropping experience: Kyrgyz Eagle Hunting - is a traditional form of falconry which dates back for thousands of years. In a nutshell, it involves the use of trained golden eagles to hunt small prey, such as hares, jackals and foxes (we use only artificial carcasses during the hunt). You will learn all key facts about these majestic birds and by the end of the process everyone will participate in the national archery. Now we’re driving towards the adjacent Ak Say canyons (also Canyon of Forgotten Rivers). A beautiful, light hike up the canyon to its panoramic spot (1 hour both ways). Descending down. Now it’s time for the picnic in paradise. Free time for swimming, sunbathing and relaxing on the wild beach. Now it’s time to say goodbye to this fairy region and move on towards Naryn for some new adventures. Passing by Orto Tokoi reservoir on the way. Driving up the scenic mountain passes and we’re arriving at Son Kol. Check in to the first yurt camp in our journey. Personal time. Dinner. Overnight in yurts.
Day 11
SON KOL LAKE - NARYN
Today we’re spending most of our day exploring the charming Son Kol. Breakfast at the yurt camp... Horseback riding time on the vast green meadows. Free time for walking around the lake. Lunch. After noon we’re resuming our road towards Naryn town through the beautiful mountain passes (2 hours). Stopping by the loveliest waterfall on the way. Arrival in Naryn. Check in to a hotel (Khan Tengri grand). Free time for rest. Dinner. Overnight.
Day 12
NARYN - KEL SUU
In the morning after breakfast we’re heading to the place that will definitely end up in your TOP 5 spots of the world - and that is the out-ofimagination Kel Suu lake... It is located in one the remotest area of Kyrgyzstan, one mountain pass away from China, and therefore driving to Kel Suu will be the absolute scenes! Buckle up and let the fairy tale begin! Heading towards Kel Suu. Passing through the border checkpoints with special permits. After the beautiful 3 hour light off-road drive we’re arriving at Kel Suu’s base camp. Check into the camp (wooden shacks). Lunch time. After fueling up, we’re embarking on the most scenic horseback voyage to the lake itself (5km or 1,5 hours). Reaching Kel Suu and exploring this magical nature’s creation on a motorboat, gliding along the turquoise water, through the rocky mountains on both sides. Personal time for enjoying the place. Return back to the camp on horses. Dinner at the camp. Bonfire time under the starry sky.
Day 13
KEL SUU - NARYN - KOCHKOR
In the morning after breakfast we have some more personal time to walk around and contemplate the surroundings... Setting off from the camp and driving back to Naryn. Lunch in a restaurant upon arrival. Hopping in the bus and heading to the small town of Kochkor (1,5 hours). Check in to a hotel. Free time for rest. Dinner in a restaurant. Personal time.
Day 14
KOCHKOR - CHON KEMIN
In the morning after breakfast we’re visiting a local “Kyrgyz Carpet” workshop... This unique national shop is powered by the region’s women community and has a lot of valuable items to offer: from the national felt carpets and wool shawls to souvenirs and antiques. Here we’ll have an opportunity to participate in the process of making Kyrgyz felt carpet ourselves. After that we’re setting off from this small town and driving shortly to the picturesque valley of Chon Kemin (1,5 hours). Upon arrival, lunch in the loveliest restaurant with a 360 view. Check in to the hotel surrounded by green mountains. After that we’re setting off for a beautiful horseback journey up the hills to the panoramic spot that overlooks the whole valley (2 hours both ways). Breathtaking views are insured! Returning back down. Dinner in the same restaurant. Personal time.
Day 15
CHON KEMIN - BISHKEK
Today we’re heading to the capital city of Kyrgyzstan - Bishkek. In the morning after breakfast we’re setting off from the valley and driving straight to Bishkek (2,5 hours)... Upon arrival, check in to a hotel (Ambassador or Solutel 4*). Personal time. Now we’re starting our beautiful city excursion of Bishkek: Victory square - dedicated to the Second World War with some relevant monuments and eternal fire. Kyrgyz National Opera and Ballet theater - an old and beautiful building from the 50s. From here we’ll make our way to the Oak park to learn more about some other monuments and to have a glance at the fancy open air Art gallery. Ala Too Square - the main square of the city where the biggest flagpole and sentinels are located. Have a walk around the place and see the historical museum, Manas hero monument and the White House. Lunch in a restaurant. Explore the charming “Erkindik” or “Freedom” boulevard and the old railway station which is a good example of the Soviet architecture of the early 20th century. Kyrgyz State Philharmonic Hall - another beautiful place to capture a fascinating style of the Mayor’s office, International University and the Philharmony itself. After the city tour you have a personal time to relax in Bishkek on your own.
Day 16
BISHKEK - TASHKENT
In the morning after breakfast we’re heading to one more must-visit site in Bishkek - the legendary Osh bazaar (traditional open air market)... After that you have a free time to walk around Bishkek once more before we’re heading to the airport to catch our 1 hour flight to the capital city of Uzbekistan - Tashkent. Transfer to the airport and saying good bye to Kyrgyzstan. Arrival at Tashkent’s airport. Transfer to the city center and check in to a hotel (Wyndham 4* or similar). Free time for rest.
Day 17
TASHKENT
Today we’re exploring Tashkent. Let’s go! Our adventure begins with a visit to the enchanting Old Tashkent... Step back in time as you admire architectural gems like the Barak-Khan Madrasah and Tillya Sheikh Mosque in Hast Imam Square. The Library of Eastern Manuscripts - home to centuries-old texts. Witness the oldest Qoran which was written in the VII century. No visit to Tashkent would be complete without experiencing the vibrant bustle of Chorsu Bazaar. Afterwards, we'll hop on the metro for a journey into the modern heart of the city. Our first stop is the Monument of Courage, a towering tribute to the resilience and courage of the Uzbek people. From there, we'll proceed to Independence Square, a sprawling plaza adorned with fountains, statues, and the iconic Arch of Good Will. Lunch in a restaurant. Next destination is the residence of Romanov, the exiled grandson of the Russian Emperor Nikolai I. Following that, we’re visiting the Opera and Ballet theater. Concluding our city excursion at Amir Timur Square, named after the legendary conqueror. Return to the hotel. Personal time for chilling in the city.
Day 18
TASHKENT - SAMARKAND
In the morning after breakfast we’re embarking on a modern high speed train and heading to Samarkand (2 hours)... Check in to a hotel (Continental 3* or similar). Dropping off our stuff and immersing into Samarkand’s heritage straight away. With over 2500 years of rich history, Samarkand is known as the “precious pearl” and “face of the earth” in the East, sharing its legacy with cities like Athens, Rome, and Babylon. Here are the places we’ll visit: Majestic Gur-Emir mausoleum and tombs of Timurid dynasty that resemble a closed turquoise tulip. Registan Square - the heart of Samarkand: It originated long before the Mongol invasion (18th century), as a gathering point of urban craftsmen and merchants. The word Registan means “a place on the sand”. Lunch in a national restaurant. Siyab bazaar (open air market). Bibi-Khanym Palace (15th century). Ulugbek Observatory - famous astronomer and grandson of Tamerlane. The Shahi – Zinda architectural complex. Return to the hotel. Personal time.
Day 19
SAMARKAND - BUHARA
In the morning after breakfast we’re continuing the road by the already-known high speed train to Bukhara (2 hours)... Check in to a hotel upon arrival (Wyndham 4* or similar). Now it’s time for the introduction to Bukhara: Visiting Kalyan minaret (also known as the Tower of Death) - one of the most iconic landmarks in Bukhara. Chor Minor: meaning "Four Minarets" in Farsi language, is an architecturally unique and historic monument. This structure stands out for its distinctive design and is one of Bukhara's most renowned and photographed sites. Lunch in a restaurant. Lyabi Hauz area is a quintessential example of Central Asian urban planning and architecture, centered around a tranquil pond (hauz) that dates back to the 17th century. Ark citadel is a massive fortress which has stood as a symbol of power and a focal point of the city's development for centuries. Its origins date back to the 5th century AD, though the structure has been destroyed and rebuilt numerous times throughout its history. Continuing our lovely city tour and visiting the trading domes of Bukhara. Here, we will have the opportunity to purchase various souvenirs and presents. Return to the hotel. Free time in the evening.
Day 20
BUKHARA - KHIVA
Today we have to undergo a pretty long drive from Bukhara to Khiva (440km) since that’s one of the only ways to get there... But we can surely do it! And it’ll worth it! Check in to a hotel upon arrival in Khiva. Free evening.
Day 21
KHIVA
Today is dedicated for getting aquatinted with Khiva. Starting off from Ota Darvoza (West gate), the main entrance to Itchan Kala... This place will take you on a journey back in time. Just a short walk from the gate, we’re visiting the Kunya-Ark Fortress - the former residence of Khiva’s rulers. Next visit is to Mohammed Amin Khan Madrasah featuring a museum inside. Right after the Madrasah we’re checking out the Kalta Minor Minaret. Lunch at a local restaurant. After lunch we’re heading to the Juma Mosque with its unique wooden columns and a roof that dates back to the 10th century. Visiting the Islam Khodja complex, which includes the highest minaret in Khiva. Tosh Hovli Palace - known for its intricate tile work and beautiful courtyards. Pahlavon Mahmud Mausoleum - dedicated to the legendary poet, philosopher, and wrestler. End of the city excursion. Now you can spend the evening relaxing on your own. (Watch the Sunset from the Walls of Itchan Kala. Dinner with a view).
Day 22
KHIVA - DARVAZA
Today is the beginning of the next exciting chapter on our immaculate journey! We’re entering Turkmenistan... Let’s go! In the morning after breakfast we’re heading to the border point “Dashoguz ” (1 hour from Khiva). Crossing the border control and receiving our Turkmen visas. Here we go! Driving through the legendary desertlike landscape of Turkmenistan (5 hours) towards the most renowned landmark of this country - Darwaza, the natural burning gas crater, often called as “Gates of hell”. Lunch on the way (lunch boxes). Upon arrival we’re checking in to the authentic yurt camp next to Darvaza. Free time for watching the crater itself, taking photos and enjoying the otherworldly vibe of the place at sunset. Dinner.
Day 23
DARVAZA - ASHGABAT
In the morning after sunrise we have enough time to enjoy the scenes of Darvaza. Lunch... After noon we’re setting off for the capital of Turkmenistan - the white city of Ashgabat (3 hours). Check in to a hotel upon arrival (Olimpia or Sport 4* hotels). Free time to walk in the evening Ashgabat. Dinner at a restaurant.
Day 24
ASHGABAT
Today we’re diving into a complete introduction of Ashgabat. Starting off our city excursion in the morning after breakfast... Independence Park - a vast and beautifully landscaped area that celebrates the country ’s independence. Turkmenistan National Museum that’s located right within the park. Learn the most of Turkmenistan’s history and heritage in a matter of minutes. Arch of Neutrality - monument with a golden statue of the country ’s first President atop (Saparmurat Niyazov). Lunch at a national restaurant. Wedding Palace - a unique building designed to look like a giant cube with a ball on top. Earthquake Memorial and Museum. Health Path is a popular spot for locals and offers great views of the city and surrounding landscape. Visiting the Ertugrul Gazi Mosque. Return to the hotel. Personal time to walk around. Dinner at a restaurant.
Day 25
ASHGABAT - MARY - MERV
In the morning after breakfast we’re heading to the historical town of Mary (3 hours). Check in to a hotel upon arrival (Margush hotel)... Short break. Lunch in a restaurant. After that, we’re starting a lovely excursion of Mary itself and also of the ancient landmark Merv, which dates back to at least the 6th century BCE. It was an important center along the Great Silk Road, serving as a major hub for trade and culture between China, Central Asia, and the Middle East. Walking around the area and exploring numerous remains of ancient structures like: city walls, palaces, mosques, mausoleums, and fortresses. Return to the hotel. Personal time. Dinner in a restaurant.
Day 26
MARY - ASHGABAT
In the morning after breakfast we have a free time for exploring the local bazaar (open air market) in Mary. Lunch in a restaurant... Afterwards, we’re taking a quick domestic flight from Mary back to Ashgabat (40 minutes). Check in to a hotel upon arrival (Sport or Olimpia 4*). Free time for rest and exploring the streets of evening Ashgabat. Farewell dinner in a restaurant. The next morning you ’ll be transported to the airport of Ashgabat to catch the flight to either Dubai or Istanbul.
- Transportation in each country during the whole tour: Comfortable air conditioned mini bus (Mercedes Benz REX and similar)
- English speaking tour leader/interpreter throughout the whole tour
- English speaking guides in each country for city excursions
- Accommodation for 26 nights: twin stay at hotels as per program; guest houses; yurt camps (2-4 people in each)
- Meals: 26 breakfasts; 10 lunches; 9 dinners
- Domestic flights and flights between countries: Astana - Almaty; Bishkek - Tashkent; Mary - Ashgabat
- All activities due to the program: Chair lift rental at the ski base in Karakol; Eagle hunting + archery in Ak Sai; Horseback ride at Son Kol lake; Horseback ride at Kel Suu lake; Motorboat ride on Kel Suu lake; Felt carpet making process in Kochkor; Horseback ride in Chon Kemin valley; High speed trains from Tashkent to Samarkand and from Samarkand to Bukhara
- Border permits for Enelchek town and Kel Suu lake (Kyrgyzstan)
- Visa and LOI (Letter of invitation) for Turkmenistan
- Bottled drinking water: 1L per person daily
- All entrance fees during the whole tour: city excursions; parks; canyons; museums; cable cars; etc.
Price includes:
- International airfare: to Astana on day 1; from Ashgabat on day 27
- Health insurance
- Visa sticker at the border to Turkmenistan (price varies depending on citizenship)
- Personal expenses: alcohol, souvenirs, etc.
- Other meals not mentioned in the program
- Other activities not mentioned in the program
Price does NOT include:
Notice:
Arrival and departure points can be changeable according to traveler’s requests, (it can be Shavat, Farab, Bajigran, Ashgabat airport, Sarakhs, and Hodjaeyli) and we can shorten or prolong the time of the tour program.
Sometimes Yurtas are not available at the Darvaza gas crater, due to lots of tourists, therefore guests should be accommodated at the camps.
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