General
5 STANs and Silk Road Tour 18 Days – (2026-27)
Discover the ultimate 5 STANs and Silk Road Tour across Central Asia’s most fascinating places. This beautifully designed itinerary joins Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan, Turkmenistan, and Tajikistan in a single seamless excursion. Furthermore, it follows the legendary Silk Road, passing through UNESCO World Heritage Sites and ancient cities. Along the trip, visitors will see breathtaking scenery, a vibrant nomadic culture, and timeless architecture. As a result, this tour provides an immersive and memorable Central Asian travel experience.
In addition to this tour, you can also explore other exciting five STANs tours listed in the table below.
| TOURS OF FIVE STANS | DURATION | Price per person (USD) | Minimum Required to Guarantee |
|---|---|---|---|
| Silk Road 5 Stans Tour | 12 Days | 2610 | 4 pax |
| Silk Road Tour of Five (5) STANs | 14 Days | 3090 | 4 pax |
| Central Asia Tour of 5 STANs | 14 Days | 3050 | 4 pax |
| Central Asia 5-STANs Tour | 20 Days | 4345 | 4 pax |
| Five Stans Tour of Silk Road & Central Asia | 24 Days | 5065 | 4 pax |
| Five (5) STAN Capitals Tours | 12 Days | 2175 | 4 pax |
| 5 STANs and Silk Road Tour | 18 Days | 3695 | 4 pax |
| 5 STANs Tour of Central Asia | 35 Days | 6295 | 4 pax |
| 5 Stans Family Tour of Silk Road & Central Asia | 20 Days | 3725 | 4 pax |
| 5 Stan Tour of Central Asia & Silk Road | 40 Days | 8465 | 4 pax |
| Five (5) Stan 2-Weeks Tour of Central Asia & Silk Road | 14 Days | 3095 | 4 pax |
| TOURS OF FIVE STANS | DURATION | Price per person (USD) | Minimum Required to Guarantee |
Itinerary – 5 STANs and Silk Road Tour
The itinerary for the 5 STANs and Silk Road Tour appears below.
Day 02: Almaty – Charyn Canyon – Saty
On this Day
The adventure begins with a picturesque drive to Charyn Canyon and an exploration of the breathtaking Valley of Castles. The canyon was formed during the Paleogene period and contains magnificent cliffs that rise up to 300 meters, as well as intricate ravines sculpted by wind and water over millions of years. The valley spans for over two kilometers and resembles a natural fortress with towering rock formations. Continue to Kolsai Lakes and do a short stroll at Kolsai Lake 1 at 1,800 meters above sea level, surrounded by alpine grandeur. The trip then heads to Saty Village for dinner and overnight stay at a comfortable guesthouse.
Day 03: Saty – Almaty
On this Day
Exploration of Kaindy Gorge uncovers one of Kazakhstan's most magical natural beauties, Kaindy Lake, which sits 2,000 meters above sea level amid deep pine forests. The lake was formed after a severe 1911 earthquake prompted a landslide that constructed a natural dam, flooding the valley and preserving drowned trees beneath its cold, clear water. The visible trunks rising above the surface look like masts emerging from a serene blue mirror. This one-of-a-kind landscape's strange atmosphere creates an indelible impact. After exploring the area, return to Almaty for some leisure time and overnight stay at the hotel.
Day 04: Almaty – Bishkek
On this Day
Almaty attractions include Panfilov Park, which honors the gallant 28 soldiers who died near Moscow in 1941, and the magnificent wooden Zenkov Cathedral, which was built without nails and is earthquake resistant. The National Musical Instruments Museum displays traditional Kazakh instruments, while Medeu Skating Rink and Shymbulak Ski Resort highlight the mountainous grandeur accessible by cable car. After the tour, transfer to Bishkek via the Korday border crossing, where you will complete the appropriate formalities with your luggage. When you get to Kyrgyzstan's capital, you can relax and spend the night at a hotel.
Day 05: Bishkek – Tashkent
On this Day
A walking tour of Bishkek includes stops at Oak Park, Ala-Too Square, the Philharmonic Hall on Rose Alley, the Statue of Manas, and Victory Square, which features an eternal flame memorial. The tour continues to Ala Archa National Park, where magnificent gorges and alpine scenery provide refreshing air and unforgettable vistas. Transfer to Bishkek International Airport for your trip to Tashkent. Upon arrival, complete the migration formalities and meet the driver with an Apricot Tours sign. Transfer to your accommodation in Tashkent and relax before spending the night.
Day 06: Tashkent – Nukus – Muynak – Nukus
On this Day
Transfer to the local airport for your journey to Nukus, where you will be met by your driver and guide. Continue on to Muynak, formerly a thriving port city on the Aral Sea and now home to the spooky ship cemetery located far from the current shoreline. On the way back, stop by the ancient Mizdakhan necropolis and the surrounding remains of Gyaur-Kala castle, which was once a Zoroastrian village complete with a citadel and fire altar. The hallowed burial grounds were significant for generations. Return to Nukus for leisure time and an overnight stay at the hotel.
Day 07: Nukus – Ayaz Kala – Khiva
On this Day
Visit the Savitsky Museum, which is known for its outstanding collection of Khorezm antiques, Uzbek fine arts, and the second-largest collection of Russian avant-garde works after the Russian Museum in Saint Petersburg. Igor Savitsky founded the museum, which received international recognition for conserving cultural history during difficult times. Continue to Khiva, stopping at the ancient fortresses of Ayaz-Kala and Toprak-Kala, Kushan-era strongholds that once protected Khorezm from nomadic invasions. These colossal ruins rise from sandy slopes, evoking ancient majesty. Arrive in Khiva and settle into your accommodation.
Day 08: Explore Khiva
On this Day
Explore the old inner city of Ichan-Kala, an open-air museum that preserves Khiva's architectural magnificence. Visit Ata-Darvaza and Kunya-Ark, the madrassahs of Muhammad Rahim Khan and Muhammad Aminhan, and take in the turquoise Kalta Minor. Discover Tash Hauli Palace, Caravanserai and Tim Allakulihan, Seyd Allaudin's Mausoleum, Islam-Khoja Madrassah and minaret, and Jami Mosque and minaret. These structures represent centuries of Islamic scholarship and Silk Road prosperity. The excursion concludes with free time in Khiva, where you will stay tonight.
Day 09: Khiva – Kunya Urgench – Darwaza
On this Day
Transfer to the Shavat/Dashoguz border and complete the necessary formalities before continuing to Kunya Urgench. Visit the mausoleums of Nadzhimetdin Kubra and Torebeg-Hanym, the Mamun and Kutlug-Timur minarets, and the Kyrkmolla and Arslan II mausoleums, which embody the region's spiritual and architectural legacy. Continue over the Karakum Desert to the Darwaza gas crater, also known as the Gate of Hell, which has been blazing constantly since 1971 when geologists ignited escaping gas. The burning crater makes a stunning image among the arid sands. Dinner and overnight stay at a typical yurt camp.
Day 10: Darwaza – Ashgabat
On this Day
Travel to Ashgabat and begin your tour with Ancient Nissa, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that houses the ruins of a Parthian city. Visit the majestic Turkmenbashi Mosque-Mausoleum, one of Central Asia's largest, and Ertogrul Gazy Mosque, which is inspired by Ottoman design. Explore Independence Park, which features the majestic Monument of Independence and the unusual Neutrality Arch. The National Museum has important collections from Ancient Merv and Nissa. Ashgabat's white marble structures and towering avenues create a remarkable modern capital. The day concludes with leisure activities and an overnight stay at the hotel.
Day 11: Ashgabat – Mary – Merw – Bukhara
On this Day
Transfer to the airport for your flight to Mary, then continue to Ancient Merv, a UNESCO-listed archaeological park. Explore the Sultan Sanjar Mausoleum, Mohammed bin Said Mausoleum, medieval Kesk castles, and the Merv Region History Museum. These monuments highlight the splendor of one of the Silk Road's major cities. Before entering Uzbekistan, proceed to the Farab-Alat border to complete migratory requirements. After crossing, meet the driver and transfer to Bukhara. Leisure time upon arrival offers relaxation before nighttime stay at the hotel.
Day 12: Full-Day Bukhara Tour
On this Day
A guided walking tour highlights Bukhara's architectural marvels, beginning with the Lyabi Hauz ensemble and the madrassahs of Nadir Divanbegi and Kukeldash. Explore Magoki Attari Mosque, Abdullakhan's Tim, Caravanserai Sayfuddin, and the old trading domes Toki Sarrofon, Toki Telpak Furushon, and Toki Zargaron. Explore Ulugbek and Abdulazizkhan Madrassas, Poi Kalon Square with its Kalon Minaret, Mosque, and Mir Arab Madrassa, and finally the Ark Fortress, a historic fortification steeped in folklore. The day emphasizes Bukhara's importance as a center of trade, scholarship, and religion. Stay overnight at the hotel.
Day 13: Bukhara – Gijduvan – Samarkand
On this Day
Time at leisure in Bukhara precedes the transfer to Samarkand, which includes a stop in Gijduvan. Visit the renowned pottery workshop to see craftsmen exhibit traditional ceramic production techniques, such as shaping clay on the wheel, preparing natural pigments, and fire adorned pieces. Explore the museum hall, which houses masterpieces from Gijduvan and other places, and, upon request, take part in a ceramic painting master class. Continue the picturesque trip to Samarkand and check into your accommodation upon arrival. Leisure time allows for recuperation before continuing the exploration. Overnight stay at the hotel.
Day 14: Full-Day Samarkand Tour
On this Day
Discover Samarkand's renowned landmarks, beginning with the Gur Emir Mausoleum, where Timur and his descendants are buried. Continue to Registan Square, where Ulughbek, Sherdor, and Tilla Kori madrassahs make a stunning ensemble. Visit Bibi Khanim Mosque, Shahi Zinda Necropolis, Ulugbek's Observatory, and Siyab Bazaar, which together represent Samarkand's intellectual and spiritual importance along the Silk Road. The city's turquoise domes and beautiful tilework reflect the Timurid Renaissance. Following the trip, return to the hotel for leisure time and overnight stay.
Day 15: Samarkand – Marguzor – Penjikent
On this Day
Transfer to the Jartepa border and complete the crossing procedures before continuing into Tajikistan. Visit the Seven Lakes of Marguzor in the Fann Mountains, where the colors of the lakes change from deep blue to indigo depending on the light. The lakes, which include Nezhigon, Soybean, Gushor, Nofin, Hurdak, Marguzor, and Hazorchashma, drop around 700 meters between their highest and lowest elevations. Surrounded by stunning mountain scenery, they provide a peaceful natural landscape. Continue to Penjikent, an old Sogdian Silk Road city on the Zeravshan River, for an overnight stay.
Day 16: Penjikent – Khujand
On this Day
Penjikent sightseeing includes the UNESCO-listed Sarazm Important Bird Area on the floodplain, as well as the ancient remnants of Old Penjikent, which was once a thriving Sogdian trading metropolis. Continue to Istaravshan, one of Tajikistan's oldest cities, formerly known as Cyropolis and founded by Cyrus the Great. Before leaving for Khujand, see the Mazori Sharif Mausoleum, Kog Gumbaz Madrasa, and the ruins of the Kuhi Mug castle. Upon arrival, check into the hotel and relax. Overnight stay at Khujand.
Day 17: Khujand – Tashkent
On this Day
Explore Khujand, also known as Alexandria Eschate, by visiting Pushkin Square and Kamoli Khudjandi Square, the Timur Malik Fortress and Sugd Museum, the Muslihiddin Memorial Complex, Panjshanbe Bazaar, and Arbob Palace. These sites reflect the city's extensive history, from its Hellenistic origins to present Tajik culture. After touring, go to the Oybek border crossing and complete the formalities before entering Uzbekistan. Meet your driver on the Uzbek side and transfer to Tashkent. Leisure time and overnight stay in a hotel.
Day 18: Departure to home country
On this Day
Tashkent sightseeing attractions include Amir Timur Square, Theater Square, which houses the State Academic Opera and Ballet Theater dedicated after Alisher Navoi, Independence Square, and the Earthquake Memorial. Visit Khast Imam Square, which is home to the Barakkhan Madrasa, Kaffal Shashi Mausoleum, and Othman's ancient Quran. Explore Chorsu Bazaar beneath its unique blue dome and visit the magnificently designed Tashkent Metro stations. Following the city tour, transfer to Tashkent International Airport for your departure flight, which marks the end of your incredible Five Stans and Silk Road experience.
Holiday Information
What’s included
- Pickup from hotel or vacation rental before sightseeing
- Drop at hotel or vacation rental after sightseeing
- Guided sightseeing tour according to itinerary above
- Map (hard copy)
- Licensed professional guide (english speaking)
- SUV/mini-van/car (depending on number of people)
- Driver
- All entry/admission tickets
- Bottled water in car (fair usage policy)
- Toll & parking fees
What’s not included
- Drop after 10 pm (Drivers & Guide’s working hours end at 10pm)
- Gratuities/tips for guides/drivers, etc
- Meals, snacks and drinks (our guide will make recommendations after consultation with guests)
- Accommodation (can be arranged at additional cost according to your budget)
- Personal travel insurance (Recommendation/Rescue Partners: Global Rescue)
- Visa for the country (supporting documents can be offered if requested for multiday tours)
- Refunds in case of early tour windup/closure due to any reason
- Anything not mentioned in inclusions
Highlights – 5 STANs and Silk Road Tour
The 5 STANs and Silk Road Tour have a lot to offer. Below are the main highlights.
- Discover the dramatic rock formations of Charyn Canyon in Kazakhstan.
- Experience alpine serenity at the stunning Kolsai and Kaindy Lakes.
- Explore the open-air museum city of Khiva Ichan-Kala.
- Witness the eternal flames of the Darwaza Gas Crater.
- Admire Timurid architecture at majestic Registan Square.
- Wander through historic trading domes in Bukhara Old Town.
- Visit the ancient Parthian ruins of UNESCO-listed Nissa.
- Discover vast archaeological remains at legendary Ancient Merv.
- Enjoy breathtaking mountain scenery at Tajikistan’s Seven Lakes.
- Explore vibrant traditions and landmarks across dynamic Tashkent City.
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Overview – 5 STANs and Silk Road Tour
Take an exciting five STANs and Silk Road Tour via Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan, Turkmenistan, and Tajikistan. This immersive Central Asian adventure combines ancient history and magnificent landscapes. From the stunning canyons of Almaty to the alpine beauty of the Fann Mountains, each site offers a unique perspective. In addition, guests visit UNESCO World Heritage Sites, famed Silk Road cities, and thriving local bazaars. Along the route, see architectural treasures in Samarkand, Bukhara, and Khiva. In addition, visit the incredible Darwaza gas crater in the Karakum Desert. Each country has its own traditions, cuisine, and cultural heritage. As a result, this multi-country excursion offers both depth and variety.
Furthermore, the tour follows the ancient Silk Road trade routes that formerly linked East and West. Travelers pass through historic fortifications, towering madrasahs, and busy market areas. Meanwhile, qualified advisors share information about nomadic culture and Timurid architecture. Scenic border crossings provide variation and authenticity to the experience. As a result, the voyage feels both effortless and thrilling. Comfortable hotels and well-planned transfers improve the entire trip experience. As a result, tourists enjoy both discovery and rest. This 5 STANs tour is suitable for both cultural and historical buffs. Finally, it provides a thorough and enriching exploration of Central Asia’s enduring treasures.
Website Last Updated: January 15, 2026
