General
Central Asia 5-STANs Tour 20 Days – (2026-27)
The Central Asia 5-STANs Tour is an unforgettable adventure across Uzbekistan, Turkmenistan, Tajikistan, Kazakhstan, and Kyrgyzstan. Furthermore, this authentic Silk Road experience incorporates UNESCO World Heritage Sites and breathtaking natural scenery. Travelers discover historical cities, bustling bazaars, alpine lakes, and desert delights. As a result, this multi-country tour combines rich culture, history, and magnificent beauty into one seamless Central Asian 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 – Central Asia 5-STANs Tour
The itinerary for the Central Asia 5-STANs Tour appears below.
Day 02: Full-Day Tashkent Tour
On this Day
The Tashkent sightseeing trip takes you through both the old and modern regions of the capital. Visits include Amir Timur Square, which is bordered by the Museum of Timurid History, the Uzbekistan Hotel, the Forum Palace, and the famed Tashkent striking clock. The program then moves on to Theater Square, where the State Academic Theater of Uzbekistan named after Alisher Navoi is located, followed by Independence Square, which houses the Eternal Flame Memorial and the Earthquake Memorial. Khast Imam Square includes the Barakkhan Madrasah, the Kaffal Shashi Mausoleum, and Othman's ancient Quran. Guests can also explore Chorsu Bazaar and take the magnificently designed Tashkent Metro. Stay overnight at the hotel.
Day 03: Tashkent – Urgench – Khiva
On this Day
Transfer to the airport for your trip to Urgench. Upon arrival, visitors meet their driver and travel to Khiva. After leaving your luggage at the hotel, a guided walking tour begins in Ichan-Kala, the medieval inner town and open-air museum. Highlights include the Ata-Darvaza, Kunya-Ark, Muhammad Rahim Khan, and Muhammad Aminhan Madrasahs, Kalta Minor, Tash Hauli Palace, Caravanserai and Tim Allakulihan, Seyd Allaudin Mausoleum, Islam-Khoja Madrasah and minaret, and Jami Mosque and minaret. The historic city environment provides valuable insight into Khiva's khanate legacy. Leisure time follows. Stay overnight at the hotel.
Day 04: Khiva – Kunya Urgench – Darwaza
On this Day
Transfer to the Shavat/Dashoguz border and cross into Turkmenistan. After meeting the Turkmen guide and driver, head to Kunya Urgench for sightseeing. Visits include Najmuddin Kubra's Mausoleum, the Torebeg-Hanym Mausoleum, the Mamun and Kutlug-Timur minarets, Kyrkmolla, and the Arslan II Mausoleum. The voyage continues into the Karakum Desert to the Darwaza gas crater, also known as the Gate of Hell. Geologists discovered the flaming crater in 1971, and it makes a stunning landscape amid the arid sands. Guests enjoy the unusual environment before dinner and an overnight stay in traditional yurts near the crater.
Day 05: Darwaza – Ashgabat
On this Day
The trip from the desert camp to Ashgabat transitions from sandy paths to paved highways. En way, stop by the ancient city of Nissa, a UNESCO World Heritage Site dating back to the first millennium BC. When you arrive in Ashgabat, tour the city's spectacular architecture, such as the Ertogrul Gazy Mosque, Independence Park, which includes the towering Monument of Independence and the revolving Neutrality Arch. The National Museum houses extensive collections from ancient Merv and Nissa. Turkmenbashi Mosque and Mausoleum are impressive due to its large size and beautiful surroundings. Following that, there is time for relaxation. Stay overnight at the hotel.
Day 06: Ashgabat – Mary – Merw – Bukhara
On this Day
Transfer to the airport for your trip to Mary. Upon arrival, proceed to Ancient Merv, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The historical park is home to the Sultan Sanjar Mausoleum, the Mohammed bin Said Mausoleum, medieval "Kesk" castles, and the area History Museum. After exploring this important Silk Road hub, head to the Farab-Alat land border and complete the migration process. On the Uzbek side, meet the driver and transfer to Bukhara. The drive exposes shifting landscapes between Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan. Arrival in Bukhara offers time to unwind before beginning your visit to this ancient city. Stay overnight at the hotel.
Day 07: Full-Day Bukhara Tour
On this Day
A walking tour highlights Bukhara's outstanding architectural legacy. Visit the Lyabi Hauz ensemble, which includes Nadir Divanbegi Madrassa, Khanaka, Kukeldash Madrassa, and a statue of Khoja Nasreddin. Discover Magoki Attari Mosque, Abdullakhan's Tim, Caravanserai Sayfuddin, and the trading domes of Toki Sarrofon, Toki Telpak Furushon, and Toki Zargaron. Ulugbek and Abdulazizkhan's Kosh Madrassas have elaborate façade and are located opposite each other. Poi Kalon Square includes the Kalon Minaret, Kalon Mosque, and Mir Arab Madrassa. The Ark Fortress unearths centuries of stories and regal history. There will be some free time afterwards. Stay overnight at the hotel.
Day 08: Bukhara – Gijduvan – Samarkand
On this Day
After leisure time in Bukhara, travel to Samarkand, stopping in Gijduvan to visit a well-known pottery workshop. Guests see traditional pottery creation, from clay shape on the wheel to natural paint preparation and decorating processes. The handicraft museum features masterpieces from Gijduvan and other Uzbek regions. There are optional master workshops available in ceramic painting and suzani embroidery. Continue the journey to Samarkand, one of the most famous Silk Road cities. Check in at the hotel and relax before the next day's adventures. Stay overnight at the hotel.
Day 09: Full-Day Samarkand Tour
On this Day
Explore Samarkand's historic beauty, beginning with the Gur Emir Mausoleum, where Amir Timur and his successors are buried. Continue to Registan Square, which includes the Ulughbek, Sherdor, and Tilla Kori Madrasahs. Visit Bibi Khanim Mosque, previously one of the largest in the Islamic world. Discover the Shahi Zinda Necropolis, a collection of elegantly tiled mausoleums. Visit Ulugbek's Observatory to learn about medieval astronomy feats. Finally, visit Siyab Bazaar, which offers a variety of local cuisines and crafts. The city's monuments commemorate its significance in Central Asian history and architecture. Transfer to the hotel to rest. Overnight in Samarkand.
Day 10: Samarkand – Penjikent
On this Day
Transfer to the Jartepa border and cross into Tajikistan, where you will meet the local guide and driver. Continue to the Marguzor Seven Lakes in the Fann Mountains, which are famed for their changing colors and alpine landscape. The lakes, Nezhigon, Soybean, Gushor, Nofin, Hurdak, Marguzor, and Hazorchashma, are situated at varied elevations and offer stunning contrasts. Take a leisurely trek and take in the beautiful scenery before lunch at a guesthouse. Then, transfer to Penjikent. Arrival provides time for relaxing in this old Tajik town near the ancient Silk Road pathways. Stay overnight at the hotel.
Day 11: Penjikent – Iskanderkul – Dushanbe
On this Day
Explore the ruins of Ancient Penjikent, a historic Sogdian metropolis that includes a citadel, Zoroastrian temples, and residential foundations. Continue on to Dushanbe, stopping at the picturesque Iskanderkul Lake, which is named after Alexander the Great. The lake's turquoise waters and surrounding mountains provide breathtaking vistas. Travel over the Anzob tunnel and pass, which offers panoramic views of Tajikistan's mountains. Arrival in Dushanbe signals admission into the country's capital, which combines modern development and historical legacy. Following the uphill drive, guests settle into the hotel and relax. Stay overnight at the hotel.
Day 12: Dushanbe – Khujand
On this Day
Discover Dushanbe's sights, including the National Museum of Antiquities, which houses a gigantic Buddha in Nirvana, the towering flagpole, and the Monument to Ismoili Somoni in the main square. Visit Hissar Fortress, which has renovated gates, madrassas, and caravanserai that depict Silk Road traffic. After sightseeing, go to Khujand via magnificent mountain paths. Khujand, one of Central Asia's oldest cities, welcomes visitors with a historic atmosphere. When you arrive at the hotel, check in and relax. Stay overnight in Khujand.
Day 13: Khujand – Tashkent
On this Day
Discover Khujand, including Pushkin Square, Kamoli Khujandi Square, Timur Malik Fortress, Sugd Museum, Muslihiddin Memorial Complex, Panjshanbe Bazaar, and Arbob Palace. The city's history reveals its connection to Alexander the Great, formerly known as Alexandria Eschate. After touring, head to the Oybek border and complete the crossing formalities into Uzbekistan. Meet the driver and transfer to Tashkent. Arrival allows time to relax before the next leg of the tour through Central Asia. Stay overnight at the hotel.
Day 14: Tashkent – Almaty
On this Day
Transfer to Tashkent International Airport for your journey to Almaty. When you arrive at Almaty International Airport, complete the migration processes and meet the driver with an Apricot Tours sign. Transfer to your hotel and check in. Almaty, Kazakhstan's largest city, is situated at the foothills of the Trans-Ili Alatau Mountains and combines metropolitan culture with natural beauty. Guests have free time following the trip to relax and prepare for future excursions into Kazakhstan's breathtaking landscapes. Stay overnight at the Almaty hotel.
Day 15: Almaty – Charyn Canyon – Saty
On this Day
Travel to Charyn Canyon and experience the Valley of Castles, where wind and water carved stunning red rock structures reminiscent of the Grand Canyon. The canyon's walls soar to 300 meters, forming towers and ravines throughout a broad landscape. Continue to Kolsai Lakes for an easy stroll to the first lake, surrounded by alpine views. Later, drive to Saty Village. The region boasts clean nature, mountain air, and visual splendor typical of southern Kazakhstan. Dinner and sleep at a guesthouse in Saty Village.
Day 16: Saty – Kolsai Lake – Karakol
On this Day
Transfer to Kaindy Gorge to see Kaindy Lake, which was formed when a major earthquake forced a landslide, resulting in a natural dam. Submerged tree trunks emerge from the chilly turquoise water, forming a bizarre landscape. Photo pauses showcase the distinctive flooded woodland scenery. Proceed to the Kegen-Karjyra border for entry into Kyrgyzstan. Proceed to Karakol once all procedures have been completed. When you arrive, check into the hotel. Karakol is renowned for its multicultural mix and alpine environment near Issyk-Kul Lake. Leisure time follows. Stay overnight at the hotel.
Day 17: Karakol – Issyk Kul (Beltam)
On this Day
Karakol attractions include the Przhevalsky Memorial, the wooden Russian Orthodox Church, and the Dungan Mosque, which was erected without using metal nails. Continue to Jeti Oguz Gorge, which is notable for its red rock formations known as the Seven Bulls and Broken Heart Mountain. Travel along Issyk-Kul Lake, one of Central Asia's natural treasures noted for its salty and healing waters. Arriving in a yurt camp beside the lake provides insight into nomadic culture. Guests enjoy true Kyrgyz hospitality and spend the night in a traditional yurt.
Day 18: Issyk-Kul – Bishkek
On this Day
Travel along Issyk-Kul Lake, taking in the scenery and going for a short walk near the beach. Continue to Burana Tower, an 11th-century minaret and archaeological site of ancient Balasagun, where stone balbals are on show in an open-air museum. Proceed to Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan's capital. Upon arrival, check into the hotel and relax. Bishkek mixes Soviet architecture, lush boulevards, and mountain scenery. Stay overnight at the hotel.
Day 19: Full-Day Bishkek Tour
On this Day
Explore Ala Archa National Park through simple hiking along the picturesque ravine. Return to Bishkek for a walking tour of Oak Park, Ala-Too Square, the Statue of Manas, Philharmonic Hall, Victory Square, and the State History Museum. The capital's landmarks represent Kyrgyz history, independence, and cultural pride. The city's wide roads and public squares create a relaxing ambiance surrounded by mountains. Leisure time is spent at the hotel. Overnight in Bishkek.
Day 20: Departure to home country
On this Day
Transfer to Manas International Airport for the departure flight. 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 – Central Asia 5-STANs Tour
The Central Asia 5-STANs Tour have a lot to offer. Below are the main highlights.
- Registan Square in Samarkand showcases magnificent Islamic architecture and Timurid grandeur.
- The fiery Darwaza Gas Crater creates an unforgettable desert spectacle.
- Ichan-Kala in Khiva preserves a perfectly restored Silk Road fortress city.
- The vast ruins of Ancient Merv reveal powerful empires of Central Asia.
- Seven Lakes of Marguzor display striking alpine colors within Fann Mountains.
- Dramatic red formations of Charyn Canyon resemble a natural stone castle valley.
- Crystal-clear waters of Issyk-Kul Lake offer breathtaking mountain landscapes.
- The towering Burana Tower stands as a legacy of medieval Balasagun.
- Khast Imam Complex in Tashkent safeguards the ancient Quran of Othman.
- Serene turquoise waters of Kaindy Lake feature haunting submerged forest scenery.
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Overview – Central Asia 5-STANs Tour
The Central Asia five-STANs Tour offers an exciting experience across Uzbekistan, Turkmenistan, Tajikistan, Kazakhstan, and Kyrgyzstan. This unique Silk Road experience brings together historic towns, spectacular landscapes, and dynamic nomadic traditions. Every destination, from the stately Registan Square in Samarkand to Turkmenistan’s blazing Darwaza Gas Crater, tells a unique story. Travelers also visit UNESCO World Heritage Sites, vibrant bazaars, and architectural treasures. Along the trip, magnificent mountain lakes, desert views, and alpine valleys provide stunning contrasts. As a result, this multi-country trip combines cultural richness and natural beauty in a seamless experience.
In addition, the tour combines guided sightseeing with authentic local experiences. Visitors can stay in luxury hotels, traditional yurts, or beautiful guesthouses. They also discover old fortresses, historical observatories, and sacred mausoleums. The itinerary also covers the Seven Lakes of Tajikistan, Charyn Canyon in Kazakhstan, and the breathtaking Issyk-Kul Lake in Kyrgyzstan. As a result, travelers obtain a comprehensive understanding of Central Asia’s heritage and landscapes. Carefully planned logistics ensures that border crossings and regional flights go smoothly. As a result, the Central Asia five-STANs Tour is suitable for travelers seeking culture, history, and adventure across five intriguing countries.
Website Last Updated: January 15, 2026
