General

5 STANs Tour of Central Asia 35 Days – (2026-27)

Join the spectacular 5 STANs Tour of Central Asia, a multi-country Silk Road experience through Uzbekistan, Turkmenistan, Tajikistan, Kyrgyzstan, and Kazakhstan. This well planned journey includes UNESCO World Heritage Sites, ancient cities, and stunning alpine landscapes. Furthermore, guests will see colorful bazaars, desert beauties, alpine lakes, and nomadic traditions. As a result, our Central Asia itinerary combines cultural depth, visual diversity, and seamless cross-border exploration.

In addition to this tour, you can also explore other exciting five STANs tours listed in the table below.

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Itinerary – 5 STANs Tour of Central Asia

The itinerary for the 5 STANs Tour of Central Asia appears below.

On this Day

Meet your guide and embark on a comprehensive sightseeing tour of Tashkent, exploring both its historic and modern quarters. Visit Amir Timur Square, which is bordered by the Timurid History Museum, the Uzbekistan Hotel, the Forum Palace, and the iconic Tashkent clock. Continue to Theater Square, which includes the State Academic Theater named after Alisher Navoi, Independence Square with its fountains and Eternal Flame, and the Earthquake Memorial. Explore Khast Imam Square, which is home to the Barakkhan Madrasah and Othman's ancient Quran. Explore Chorsu Bazaar and take the gorgeously adorned Tashkent Metro. Stay overnight at the hotel.

On this Day

Transfer to the airport for your journey to Nukus. Upon arrival, meet your driver and continue the journey to the Aral Sea, making stunning stops along the way. Learn about the remarkable environmental history of the Aral Sea, which was once the world's fourth largest lake before receding owing to irrigation operations. Visit Muynak, a once-thriving port now stranded far from the coast, and stop at the Ustyurt Plateau for panoramic views of its stunning scenery. Arrive at a yurt camp near the Aral Sea, relax, have a traditional BBQ meal, and spend the night in a yurt.

On this Day

After breakfast, continue to Muynak via the stunning Red Canyons, which have strange, Martian-like beauty. Explore Muynak, a once-prosperous fishing village in the Amu Darya delta that is now known as the Aral Sea Cemetery. On the way back to Nukus, explore the ancient Mizdakhan necropolis and the surrounding ruins of Gyaur-Kala castle, a former Zoroastrian settlement that was inhabited for generations. Before continuing on to Nukus, learn more about the spiritual importance of this ancient burial ground. Upon arrival, transfer to your accommodation and relax. Stay overnight at the hotel.

On this Day

Begin the day by visiting the famed Savitsky Museum, which houses an excellent collection of Khorezm artifacts and one of the world's greatest collections of Russian avant-garde art. Continue the journey to Khiva with photo stops at old Khorezm's desert fortresses, including as Ayaz-Kala and Toprak-Kala, which are remarkable ruins of Kushan-era defensive constructions rising from the sand. These massive remains previously safeguarded communities from nomadic incursions and represent the region's early independence. Arrive in Khiva, check into your accommodation, and enjoy your free time. Stay overnight at the hotel.

On this Day

Meet your guide and visit Khiva's medieval inner town, Ichan-Kala, which is an open-air museum surrounded by old walls. Visit the Ata-Darvaza Gate, Kunya-Ark Fortress, Muhammad Rahim Khan and Muhammad Amin Khan Madrasahs, Kalta Minor Minaret, and Tash Hauli Palace, which includes a harem. Discover the Caravanserai, Tim Allakulihan, Seyd Allaudin's Mausoleum, Islam-Khoja Madrasah and Minaret, and Jami Mosque. The architectural harmony of tiled facades and carved wooden columns reflects Khiva's ancient Silk Road legacy. Spend some time relaxing before retiring to your accommodation for the night.

On this Day

Enjoy a free day in Khiva to explore at your leisure. Wander through the ambient lanes of Ichan-Kala, admire architectural wonders, or visit artisan studios that sell ceramics, fabrics, rugs, and traditional handicrafts. Photograph the turquoise domes and soaring minarets that form a distinctive skyline. Relax in one of the lovely courtyards or teahouses and soak up the peaceful rhythm of this UNESCO-listed city. This leisure day allows for personal exploration and a fuller understanding of Khiva's cultural legacy. Stay overnight at the hotel.

On this Day

Transfer to the Uzbek-Turkmen border and complete the crossing procedures before continuing to Kunya Urgench. Explore the historic structures, which include the mausoleums of Najmuddin Kubra and Torebeg-Hanym, as well as the tall Kutlug-Timur Minaret, Mamun Minaret, Kyrkmolla, and Arslan II Mausoleum. Continue across the Karakum Desert to the Darwaza gas crater, often known as the "Door to Hell," which has been burning since 1971. The incandescent crater placed against the arid sands makes a striking scene. Enjoy dinner and an overnight stay in a yurt camp.

On this Day

Travel from the desert to Ashgabat, Turkmenistan's marble-adorned capital. En way, see the ruins of Anau Mosque and archeological remnants from ancient settlements. Continue to the renowned Ahalteke horse stables to admire the valued Turkmen horses, who are known for their elegance and endurance. Arrive in Ashgabat and marvel at its enormous boulevards, colossal architecture, and brilliant white marble structures that define the metropolis. After checking into your accommodation, take some time to relax. Stay overnight at the hotel.

On this Day

Begin your city tour of Ashgabat by visiting the Ertogrul Gazy Mosque and Independence Park, which includes the Monument of Independence. Continue to the Neutrality Arch, which is known for its peculiar design, and then visit the National Museum to see significant collections related to Ancient Merv and Nissa. Visit ancient Nissa, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and discover the ruins of this early settlement complex with deep historical value. Continue to the Turkmenbashi Mosque-Mausoleum, one of Central Asia's largest, and admire the surrounding beautiful gardens and fountains. Return to the hotel and enjoy your free time. Stay overnight at the hotel.

On this Day

After a take-away breakfast, transfer to the airport for your journey to Mary. Continue to Ancient Merv, a UNESCO-listed site, where you may tour sights such as the historical park with Sultan Sanjar Mausoleum and Mohammed bin Said Mausoleum. Visit medieval "Kesk" strongholds from the early centuries, as well as other archeological sites that represent Merv's historical significance. Continue to the Merv Region History Museum for a more in-depth look at the area's legacy. Transfer to the Farab-Alat land border to finish the formalities. Meet your driver on the Uzbek side and proceed to Bukhara. Stay overnight at the hotel.

On this Day

Meet your guide and begin a walking sightseeing tour in Bukhara's historic heart. Visit the Lyabi Hauz ensemble, which includes Nadir Divanbegi Madrassa, Khanaka, Kukeldash Madrassa, and Khodja Nasreddin's monument. Visit the Magoki Attari Mosque and then go via Abdullakhan's Tim, which has artisan shops. Visit Caravanserai Sayfuddin and then tour the covered trading domes of Toki Sarrofon, Toki Telpak Furushon, and Toki Zargaron. Continue to the Ulugbek and Abdulazizkhan Kosh madrassas, followed by Poi Kalon Square, which includes the Kalon Minaret, Kalon Mosque, and Mir Arab Madrassa. End at Ark Fortress. Stay overnight at the hotel.

On this Day

Meet your guide and venture beyond the city center to explore Bukhara's outlying landmarks. Visit Sitorai-Mokhi-Khossa, the last Emir's summer residence, to see exquisite rooms and gardens that characterize the Bukhara emirs' final reign. Continue to the Bahouddin Naqshbandi Mausoleum, a popular pilgrimage place for the Naqshbandi Sufi order and one of Bukhara's most revered spiritual complexes. Finish with Chor-Minor Madrasah, also known as the Halif Niyazkul Madrasah, which is distinguished by its four distinctive towers and early nineteenth-century architecture. Return to the hotel and spend some time at leisure. Stay overnight at the hotel.

On this Day

Before leaving for Samarkand, take some time to relax in Bukhara. Travel overland, stopping in Gijduvan to visit a famous pottery workshop. Visit the facility and see the phases of ceramic creation, from shaping on the potter's wheel to preparing natural colors, decorating in local style, drying, and fire. Visit the museum hall, which features ceramic masterpieces from Gijduvan and other Uzbek regions. As an additional activity, a ceramic painting master class can be scheduled upon request. Continue your travel to Samarkand, where you will arrive and check into your accommodation before enjoying some free time. Stay overnight at the hotel.

On this Day

Travel from Samarkand to Shakhrisabz across the picturesque Takhta Karacha Pass. Meet your guide and begin an expedition to Shakhrisabz, Timur's birthplace. Visit the stunning remnants of Ak Saray Palace, a former royal summer house known for its enormous gates and superb decorating. Continue to the Dorus-Saodat mausoleum complex, which features the grave of Timur's eldest son, Jahongir. Visit Kok Gumbaz, a place of contemplation, followed by the Gumbazi-Seyidon Mausoleum, where Ulugbek descendants are buried. Return to Samarkand, proceed to your accommodation, and spend some time at leisure. Stay overnight at the hotel.

On this Day

Meet your guide and begin a thorough sightseeing tour of Samarkand. Visit the Gur Emir Mausoleum, Timur and his descendants' lavishly decorated burial vault. Continue to Registan Square, a masterpiece of medieval architecture flanked by Ulughbek Madrassa, Sherdor Madrassa, and Tilla Kori Madrassa. Visit the Bibi Khanim Mosque, a colossal building that was formerly considered one of the grandest in Islam. Continue to Siyab Bazaar to learn about local produce and traditional trade culture. Visit the Hudjum carpet factory to learn about sophisticated carpet weaving techniques and the creativity involved in complicated patterns. Return to the hotel and relax. Stay overnight at the hotel.

On this Day

Meet your guide and begin to explore Samarkand's historical landmarks. Visit the Shahi Zinda Necropolis, a magnificent avenue of mausoleums centered on the famous cenotaph of Abbas ibn-Kussam. Continue on to Ulugbek's Observatory, one of the medieval world's most prominent astronomical sites, which reflects Ulugbek's scientific heritage. Visit the Mausoleum of Hoji Doniyor, commonly known as Saint Daniel, a location revered by all faiths and cultures. Continue to the Meros paper plant in Konigil village to view traditional paper-making techniques and discover how this long-lasting craft material is created for artistic and cultural purposes. Return to the hotel. Stay overnight at the hotel.

On this Day

Meet your driver and transfer to the Jartepa border checkpoint to pass into Tajikistan. After formalities, meet your Tajik guide and driver and travel to Marguzor, one of the Fann Mountains' famous Seven Lakes. Visit the lakes, which have changing colors and distinct personalities, such as Nezhigon, Soybon, Gushor, Nofin, Hurdak, Marguzor, and Hazorchashma, and take a leisurely trek along their gorgeous coastlines. Continue to Penjikent and begin your tour with a visit to the Sarazm Museum, which is affiliated with the UNESCO World Heritage site of Sarazm. Transfer to the hotel and spend some time at leisure. Stay overnight at the hotel.

On this Day

Begin with a brief sightseeing tour of Penjikent, including a visit to the ruins of Ancient Penjikent, an early Sogdian settlement founded in the fifth century and abandoned in the seventh century. Explore the vestiges of the citadel, previous fire temples, and home foundations to learn about the town's history and culture. Continue your journey to Dushanbe with a photo stop by Iskanderkul Lake, which is traditionally associated with Alexander the Great and is known locally as Iskander. Continue on through the mountain beauty, passing the Anzob tunnel and Anzob pass with panoramic views. Arrive in Dushanbe, proceed to your accommodation, and spend some free time. Stay overnight at the hotel.

On this Day

Begin your sightseeing trip to Dushanbe with the Tajik National Museum of Antiquities, which is noted for the spectacular Buddha in Nirvana. Continue to the Tajik flagpole, one of the world's highest, and then to the city's main square to witness the Monument of Ismoili Somoni, which honors the founder of the Samanid dynasty. Explore Mehrgon Bazaar, a large market that showcases local products and daily life. Continue to Gissar Fortress, which has relics from the Bukhara Emirate and a history shaped by Silk Road commerce. Visit the Old Medressa (Madrasai Kuhna), which includes a museum, the newer Medressa complex, and the Caravan Saray. Return to the hotel. Overnight.

On this Day

Spend some time in Dushanbe before checking out of your accommodation and continuing on to Khujand via land. Travel across diverse Tajik landscapes and make a photo stop at the Kairakkum water reservoir, a large expanse of water that contrasts with the surrounding terrain and provides unforgettable views. Continue on to Khujand, one of Tajikistan's oldest cities and a pivotal historical location in Central Asia, widely associated with Alexander the Great's eastern campaign. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel and settle in. Spend your spare time relaxing after the journey or exploring local streets on your own. Stay overnight at the hotel.

On this Day

Begin a sightseeing trip in Khujand, once known as Alexandria Eschate. For insights into regional history, visit Pushkin Square and Kamoli Khudjandi Square, followed by Timur Malik's stronghold and the Sugd museum. Visit the Muslihiddin memorial complex and Panjshanbe Bazaar, one of Tajikistan's oldest markets of historical significance during the early independence period. Transfer to the Patar/Andarhan border and perform the necessary formalities. Meet your driver on the Uzbekistan side and head to Kokand. Arrive at the hotel, check in, and spend time at leisure. Stay overnight at the hotel.

On this Day

Discover Kokand, an old Silk Road city that subsequently became a major center of the Kokand Khanate. Visit Khudoyar-Khan Palace, which is currently home to the Kokand Regional History Museum, which houses substantial collections of the region's history. Continue to Norbut-Biy Madrassah, the city's largest educational monument, and then to Modari Khan Mausoleum, which was commissioned by poetess Nodira to honor the khan's family line. Rishtan is famous for its pottery history, which dates back over eight centuries and features characteristic red clay and "ishkor" blue glaze. Visit master potter Rustam Umarov's workshop and observe the craft. Continue towards Fergana. Overnight.

On this Day

Meet your guide and continue to explore the Fergana Valley. Discover Fergana's history as a nineteenth-century strategic colony and tour the Ahmad Al-Fargoni magnificent complex. Continue to Margilan, an ancient craft center on Silk Road routes, and stop by Said-Ahmad Hodji Madrassah, where artists make silk carpets. Visit the Yodgorlik silk factory to see traditional silk production and the unique ikat-style embellishment method. Continue to Andijan to visit the Bobur Literary Museum, which houses a collection dedicated to Zahiriddin Muhammad Bobur, as well as the Art and Literature Museum. Explore the Bog-I Shamol memorial park complex, named for Bobur. Transfer to your accommodation and enjoy your free time. Stay overnight at the hotel.

On this Day

Transfer to the Dostlik border and perform the necessary formalities before entering Kyrgyzstan. Meet your guide and driver and start touring in Osh, one of Central Asia's oldest cities. Visit Suleiman Too, a UNESCO-listed sacred mountain with caves, pathways, and a one-of-a-kind museum housed in a big cavern. Explore locations with panoramic views of the city and neighboring regions. Continue to Osh Bazaar, a busy market with rich historical origins in Silk Road trade, and browse the stalls selling apparel, needlework, crafts, and souvenirs. Visit the Main Square, which features a Lenin statue and reflects the Soviet era's influence in Kyrgyz public areas. Transfer to the hotel and enjoy your free time. Stay overnight at the hotel.

On this Day

Meet your guide and head to Uzgen, a major Silk Road hamlet that thrived during the Karahanids. Begin your tour in the Uzgen Archaeological-Architectural Museum complex, which includes an eleventh-century minaret and an exhibition hall. Visit the remnants of a historic bathhouse that reflects early urban life. Explore the traditional rice mill and the colorful Uzgen bazaar, where indigenous devzira rice is prized for its quality and flavor. Return to Osh and transfer to the airport for your trip to Bishkek. Upon arrival at Manas Airport, meet your driver and transfer to your hotel. Stay overnight at the hotel.

On this Day

Begin your sightseeing near Bishkek with a visit to Ala Archa Natural Park, a picturesque mountain gorge with fresh air, alpine vistas, and opportunity for a leisurely walk while seeing local wildlife. Return to the city for a walking tour that includes Oak Park, a prominent central green space. Visit Ala-Too Square, a popular venue for national events, and view the Philharmonic Hall on Rose Alley. View the Statue of Manas, which commemorates Kyrgyz epic culture, before moving on to Victory Square, which features a memorial and an eternal flame. Visit the State History Museum to learn about Kyrgyz heritage. Finish with a visit to the central bazaar for local produce and crafts. Stay overnight at the hotel.

On this Day

Transfer to Issyk Kul, stopping at Burana Tower, an eleventh-century tower connected to the ancient city of Balasagun. Explore the neighboring open-air museum, which showcases bal-bals, carved stone sculptures used as monuments. Continue to Issyk Kul Lake, well known as the "Pearl of Central Asia," for its high altitude location and saline water that has medicinal properties. Arrive at the lakefront and take a leisurely stroll along the water. The surrounding mountains and huge vistas provide a stark contrast to the lake's glistening surface. Settle in at the hotel and enjoy your free time. Stay overnight at the hotel.

On this Day

Travel along the lakefront road to Karakol. When you arrive, start your tour by visiting the wooden Russian Orthodox church, which is an elegant representation of traditional craftsmanship and local history. Continue to the Dungan Mosque, which is known for its unique architectural style and lack of metal nails, symbolizing the Dungan community's traditional heritage. Visit the N.M. Przhevalski Museum, which honors the explorers whose expeditions changed historical understanding of Central Asian terrain and peoples. Transfer to your accommodation and spend your free afternoon exploring Karakol's streets, cafes, and vistas on your own. Stay overnight at the hotel.

On this Day

Enjoy a free day in Karakol to do some sightseeing and individual exploration. Visit local markets, shoot the town's wooden architecture, or simply rest in the tranquil setting surrounded by mountains. An optional off-road drive to Altyn Arashan's hot springs, which includes an easy stroll through the valley's natural surroundings, can be arranged upon request. Finish the day with dinner at a Dungan family-hosted guesthouse, where you may experience regional hospitality and culinary traditions. After supper, return to the hotel and enjoy your free time. Stay overnight at the hotel.

On this Day

Before entering Kazakhstan, proceed to the Kegen-Karjyra border and perform all necessary border formalities. Continue on the road into Kaindy Gorge, which includes an off-road portion that leads to one of Kazakhstan's most stunning natural places. Visit Kaindy Lake, also known as Birch Lake, which formed following the 1911 earthquake, when a landslide produced a natural dam and inundated the valley. The cold, clear water protects sunken tree trunks that rise to the surface, resembling a drowned forest. Take photos at scenic locations along the gorge and at the viewing platform. Kaindy Gorge is located in a pre-border area, hence passports or ID are required at checkpoints. Continue to Saty village, have dinner, and spend the night at a guesthouse.

On this Day

After breakfast, continue to Kaindy Gorge and Kaindy Lake, taking in the unique beauty of pine forests, steep slopes, and haunting silhouettes of flooded trees visible through crystal water. The lake's construction following the 1911 earthquake lends it a peculiar character that is both spectacular and tranquil, with varying reflections on the surface. Continue on to Almaty, Kazakhstan's cultural center, and transfer to your hotel upon arrival. Spend your free time relaxing or exploring the neighboring streets, cafes, and parks on your own. Stay overnight at the hotel.

On this Day

Begin your tour in Almaty by visiting Panfilov Park, which is dedicated to the memory of the Panfilov heroes. There, you can see the monument commemorating the 28 soldiers who were decorated for their actions in 1941. Visit Zenkov Cathedral, a magnificent timber structure built without nails and notable for withstanding the 1911 earthquake. Continue to the National Musical Instruments Museum to see a collection of traditional instruments, including vintage ones dating back centuries. Travel to Medeu, known as the world's largest high-altitude speed skating rink, and then on to the Shymbulak ski resort area. Enjoy the gorgeous mountain setting and the cable car ride. Return to the hotel and enjoy your free time. Stay overnight at the hotel.

On this Day

Enjoy a free day in Almaty to do some sightseeing, shopping, and personal exploration. Explore local markets, galleries, parks, and cafes that represent the city's global spirit. Optional excursions, such as a cultural immersion tour to a Hunn Ethno village or a trip to the Sunkar falcon farm with a falcon performance, can be included as extras upon request. After optional activities or solo time, return to the city and spend the rest of the day at leisure. Stay overnight at the hotel.

On this Day

Transfer to Almaty International Airport for your departing flight. After checking out, go through the airport formalities and prepare for your next trip. This is the final day of the 5 STANs adventure across Uzbekistan, Turkmenistan, Tajikistan, Kyrgyzstan, and Kazakhstan, bringing together Silk Road cities, UNESCO heritage sites, desert vistas, mountain lakes, and colorful markets. Leave with lasting recollections of iconic architecture in Tashkent, Khiva, Bukhara, and Samarkand, the stark beauty of the Aral Sea region and Darwaza, the cultural richness of Tajikistan and Kyrgyzstan, and the natural wonders of Kaindy and Issyk Kul. This marks the end of the tour.

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 Tour of Central Asia

The 5 STANs Tour of Central Asia have a lot to offer. Below are the main highlights.

  • Explore the timeless beauty of Registan Square in Samarkand.
  • Discover desert landscapes surrounding the dramatic Darwaza Gas Crater.
  • Experience the open-air museum atmosphere inside Ichan-Kala in Khiva.
  • Witness environmental history at the haunting shores of the Aral Sea.
  • Admire intricate architecture at the sacred Poi Kalon Complex in Bukhara.
  • Enjoy alpine scenery and hiking around the stunning Seven Lakes in Tajikistan.
  • Marvel at the flooded forest rising from Kaindy Lake in Kazakhstan.
  • Visit the revered pilgrimage site of Suleiman Too in Osh.
  • Explore traditional craftsmanship in the renowned pottery town of Rishtan.
  • Relax by the sparkling waters of Issyk Kul Lake in Kyrgyzstan.

 

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Overview – 5 STANs Tour of Central Asia

The five STANs Tour of Central Asia offers an experiential experience across Uzbekistan, Turkmenistan, Tajikistan, Kyrgyzstan, and Kazakhstan. This well planned trip connects Silk Road cities, UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and breathtaking natural environments. Furthermore, guests can explore old buildings at Samarkand, Bukhara, and Khiva, as well as colorful bazaars and living cultures. The contrasts between the decreasing shoreline of the Aral Sea and the burning Darwaza gas crater are unforgettable. In addition, visitors can discover sacred mountains in Osh, alpine lakes in the Fann Mountains, and the wide Issyk Kul coastline. Each stop shows hundreds of years of history shaped by traders, conquerors, and nomadic cultures.

Furthermore, this Central Asia tour combines cultural heritage, stunning scenery, and true local encounters. Guests learn about marble-clad Ashgabat, the ruins of Ancient Merv, and the Fergana Valley’s artistic past. Meanwhile, magnificent travels across mountain ranges and arid plains provide a continual visual variation. The voyage also includes traditional yurt stays, artisan workshops, and busy markets brimming with handcrafted goods. As a result, travelers obtain a profound understanding of regional cultures and daily life. Finally, the journey ends in colorful Almaty, surrounded by the Tian Shan mountains. Overall, the 5 STANs trip experience provides smooth logistics, skilled supervision, and amazing discovery of Central Asia.

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Website Last Updated: January 15, 2026
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Company
Apricot Tours Uzbekistan
Adventure
5 STANs Tour of Central Asia
Price
USD $6295
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