Journey Through The 4 Stans

Kazakhstan | Kyrgyzstan | Tajikistan | Turkmenistan

Culture | Archaeology | Silk Road

History and landscapes of the Stans beyond Uzbekistan

18 days Ask us for pricing This is the price per person for a private tour (based on 2 people travelling) excluding international flights. Contact us for pricing for other group sizes including individuals.
Ask us a question
Book now
Intro, Dates & Prices

Intro

Begin your journey in Tajikistan, where you will experience the bustling capital of Dushanbe and uncover ancient ruins at the archaeological site of Penjikent. Visit the stunning mountain landscapes in Zerafshan Valley and the tumbling waterfalls of Zarob Gorge. Marvel at the mesmerisingly turquoise waters of Iskanderkul Lake. Venture on to Kyrgyzstan and see the magnificent rock formations of Skazka Canyon. Scale the heights of the northern Tian Shan mountains to the alpine lake of Issy Kul. See the striking red sandstone of Sharyn Canyon in Kazakhstan, before visiting Medeu - the highest speed skating rink in the world. Journey on to Turkmenistan. Learn the rich history behind the walled ruins of the ancient city of Merv. Experience the regal atmosphere of Ashgabat, discover its sparkling white marble palaces and journey through its beautifully manicured parks.

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS

  • The bustling capital of Dushanbe
  • Archaeological site of Penjikent
  • Stunning mountain landscapes in Zerafshan Valley
  • Sublime beauty of Issy Kul Lake
  • Rock formations of Skazka canyon
  • Remarkable rock formations at Jety-Oguz gorge
  • Intricate wooden carvings of Karakol's Cathedral
  • Prehistoric art of Cholpan Ata
  • The sparkling white marble eeriness of Ashgabat
  • The ruins of the ancient city of Merv

Places Visited

Dushanbe - Hisor Town - Khujand - Istaravshan - Zerafshan Valley - Penjikent - Sarazm - Iskanderkul Lake - Bishkek - Karakol - Kyzil Tuu - Skazka canyon - Cholpan Ata - Chon-Kemin valley - Almaty - Charyn Canyon - Ashgabat - Nisa - Ancient Merv - Mary - Kipchak

What's Included

Arrival & departure transfers
Ground transport with driver
Regional flights 
Accommodation
Meals (refer to itinerary for meal plan)
English-speaking guides
Entrance fees to sites & parks

Contact us today

Please confirm your humanity

Itinerary & Map
View Map

Download Itinerary
Overview Itinerary Detailed Itinerary
Image 3

Day 1 : Arrive in Dushanbe (Tajikistan)

Arrive in Dushanbe, where you will be met by a Travel the Unknown representative and transferred to your hotel (immediate check in is included). Spend the morning at your leisure. Later, visit Hisor, where you will see the ancient fortress. Visit Medrassah Kuhna, Museum of Tajik Way of Life and the mausoleum of Sufi Saint Mahdumi Azam. Visit the Museum of Musical Instruments. Overnight in Dushanbe. 

Overnight in Hilton Dushanbe 5*, Dushanbe

Meal plan: n/a

Dushanbe means "Monday" in Tajik and was named after the popular Monday market that was once held here. Excavations in the area unearthed artefacts that date back to the 5th century BC. Dushanbe was little more than a village until the early 20th century, but today it is the capital city of Tajikistan.

The Museum of Musical Instruments, or Gurminj Museum, is located in the centre of Dushanbe. The museum was founded by Tajik actor and musician, Gurminj Zavkibekov in 1990. It houses about 100 musical instruments which represent the Pamiri and Badakhshani musical tradition. These include the tar, rubab, tanbur and setor. 

The city of Hisor lies at an altitude of 799 to 824 metres between the Gissar, Babatag and Aktau Mountain Ranges. The old fort of Hisor is said to date back to the time of Cyrus the Great - the founder of the Achaemenid Empire who reigned between 559 and 530 BC.

Read more
Image 3

Day 2 : Dushanbe - Khujand

Depart Dushanbe and travel to Khujand, stopping en route to enjoy beautiful mountainous views at Varzob Gorge. Spend the day touring the city, with key sights including the Mausoleum of Sheikh Muslihiddin memorial complex, Panjshanbe Bazaar and Arbob Palace. Later visit the Sughd Museum. Overnight in Khujand. 

Overnight in Hotel Khudjan Deluxe, Khujand

Meal plan: Breakfast

Founded between the 7th and 8th centuries, Khujand is one of the oldest cities in Central Asia and the second largest in Tajikistan. Located along the Silk Road, it connects Samarkand with Fergana Valley. It was destroyed by the army of Genghis Khan during the 13th century, but quickly revived due to its strategic location and significant transport links, becoming one of the largest commercial, cultural and scientific centres in Tajikistan. 

Set within a reconstructed bastion in Khujand's city wall, Sughd Museum holds a variety of regional artifacts showcasing the history of the Sughd region. The basement houses a collection of Graeco-Roman-style stone reliefs and murals of prehistoric life, while a statue of Timur Malik takes centre-stage in the main hall.

Built on the tomb of Khujand's 12th century ruler, Muslihiddin Khudjandi, the Mausoleum of Sheikh Muslihiddin lies in the historical centre of Khujand. It has been rebuilt several times throughout the centuries, creating a distortion between the buildings not just in style but in purpose (the 16th century reconstructed mausoleum was no longer used for just burials, but also for prayer and ritual ceremonies). Today, the mausoleum is an architectural complex consisting of a cathedral mosque, a 20-metre-tall 19th century minaret and ancient burials.

Meaning "Thursday" in Persian, Panjshanbe Bazaar is Khujand's central market and one of the oldest in Tajikistan. Located in a Silk Road city, the market has always been popular with traders and travellers, selling a variety of goods, from fruit and vegetables to meat and bread.

Showcasing beautiful Soviet neo-classical architecture, Arbob Palace symbolises the historical bridge between Soviet Tajikistan and independent Tajikistan. Particularly significant in 1992, it was the meeting place of the Tajik Society who officially declared independence from the Soviet Union, as well as the site where the Tajik flag was chosen.

Varzob Gorge is a beautifully mountainous region north of the capital city. The region boasts striking views of lush green forests, tumbling waterfalls and winding rivers. 
Read more
Image 3

Day 3 : Khujand - Istaravshan - Penjikent

Travel to Istaravshan, where you will visit Mugtepa Fortress and Kok Gumbaz. Later visit a local bazaar, where you will see metal and wood craftsmen at work. Continue through Zerafshan Valley to Penjikent. Overnight in Penjikent.

Overnight in Hotel Sughd, Penjikent

Meal plan: Breakfast

The Kok Gumbaz Mosque was constructed in 1435 on the site of the Dorut Tilovat Ensemble. Also known as the Friday Mosque of Shahrisabz, the structure can be found opposite the tomb of Shamsiddin Kulal. "Kok Gumbaz" translates to "blue dome", after its crowning dome which is covered with blue ceramic tiles. 

Existing for more than 2,500 years and previously known as "Kiropolis", Istaravshan is one of the oldest cities in Tajikistan. Located in the northern foothills of the Turkistan mountain range, it was the ancient centre of trade and crafts, famous for its carving, glazed pottery and embroidery. Though some crafts still survive today, its economy is now based on fruit processing and wine making.

Situated in northern Tajikistan between the western Pamir-Alai mountain ranges, Zerafshan Valley is famous for its stunning mountain landscapes and beautiful lakes. The Tajik ancestors, the Sogdians, lived along the valley for over 1,500 years. Primarily entered from Samarkand, it contains little-travelled branches of the ancient Silk Road. 

Read more
Image 3

Day 4 : Penjikent - Haf Kul - Penjikent

Travel to the Seven Lakes, via the settlement of Sarazm. See lakes including Mijgon, Soya, Khurdak and Marguzor. Return to Penjikent. Overnight in Penjikent. 

Overnight in Hotel Sughd, Penjikent

Meal plan: Breakfast

Established in the 5th century AD by the Sogdians, the ancient town of Penjikent is famous for its millennium archaeological site. Strategically located along the route from Samarkand to Khuhistan, it was an important stop on the Silk Road and the cultural, industrial and trade centre of Soghd. It was destroyed by Arab invaders in the 8th century AD, though archaeological excavations in 1946 revealed the remnants of residential areas, administration buildings, a citadel with a palace and churches. Most impressive are the surviving colourful wall paintings displaying various scenes and stories, from battles and hunting to feasts and dancing. 

Located in the west of the Fan Mountains, the Seven Lakes of Marguzor each has its own colour, varying from calming turquoise to mesmerising purple. At 2,139 metres lie the lakes of Mijgon, Soya, Hushyor and Nophin, while the lakes of Khurdak, Marguzor and Hazorchashma are found further up at 2,400 metres.

Sarazm is an ancient town in Tajikistan dating back to the 4th century BC, that has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage site. At around 3000 BC it was the major metallurgical centre in Central Asia. It was later abandoned and then revived again as a base to mine turquoise.

Read more
Image 3

Day 5 : Penjikent - Dushanbe

Begin the day in Penjikent, where you will visit Rudaki Historic-ethnographic museum and the Ancient Penjikent settlement. Later, depart Penjikent and travel to Dushanbe, en route seeing the magnificent Iskanderkul Lake. Overnight in Dushanbe. 

Overnight in Hilton Dushanbe 5*, Dushanbe

Meal plan: Breakfast

Located in the Hissar mountain range and surrounded by the Fann mountains, Iskanderkul Lake sits at 2,255 metres above sea level. It was named after the conqueror Alexander the Great, who allegedly passed the lake on his way to India, with "Iskander" being the Persian equivalent to his name. Due to the high concentration of minerals in the turquoise water, there is almost no aquatic life in the lake.

Read more
Image 3

Day 6 : Dushanbe

Spend day exploring Dushanbe. Visit the Museum of National Antiquities and the National Museum. Later see the monument of Ismoili Somoni, Rudaki Park and a local bazaar. Overnight in Dushanbe. 

Overnight in Hilton Dushanbe 5*, Dushanbe

Meal plan: Breakfast

The Ismoili Somoni Monument was designed in celebration of the 10th-century founder of the Samanid dynasty. The statue was designed in an art-deco style and stands in Friendship Square in the city of Dushanbe. 

Rudaki Park commemorates  Tajiki poet, Rudaki. It is home to an array of beautiful flower gardens, scenic lakes and water fountains. The statue of Rudaki stands beneath an arc of blue mosaic stars in a rose garden at the centre of the park.

Opened in 2001, the Museum of National Antiquities in Dushanbe houses archaeological finds from Tajikistan with an array of artefacts from Islamic and pre-Islamic history. Its most valuable exhibit is the original Buddha from Ajina Teppa.

Opened in 2013, Dushanbe's National Museum houses a range of exhibits revealing the history of Tajikistan from the stone age to present day. With 22 exhibition halls, the museum showcases both real and recreated archaeological artefacts. Displays include unique frescoes and burned wooden statues from the Penjikent excavation site, as well as a reconstructed Ajina-Tepe Buddhist monastery site.

Read more
Image 3

Day 7 : Dushanbe - Bishkek (Kyrgyzstan)

Transfer to the airport for flight to Bishkek. Upon arrival, take a tour of the city. Highlights will include the Manas Monument, Ala Too Square, Independence Monument and Parliament House. Later visit Victory Square. Overnight in Bishkek. 

Overnight in Hotel Plaza, Bishkek

Meal plan: Breakfast

Ala-Too Square is in central Bishkek. It was built in 1984 to celebrate the 60th anniversary of the Kyrgyz SSR. An iconic statue of Lenin once stood in the middle of the square, which was formerly known as Lenin Square until Kyrgyzstan gained its independence in 1991. Following this, the statue was moved and a new statue called 'Erkindik', meaning freedom, was installed in its place. 

Bishkek lies in the shadow of the Kyrgyz Ala-Too range, an extension of the Tian Shan mountains. It is Kyrgyzstan’s capital and biggest city with a population just under one million. It was named “Frunze” by the Bolsheviks in 1926 after a military leader born there. Following its independence in 1991 it was renamed “Bishkek”, after the fortress of “Pishpek“ in the area.

The Eternal Fire monument, also known as 'Victory Square' and 'Victory monument', was constructed in 1984. The statue depicts a woman who is standing over the eternal flame, waiting for the return of her son or husband to return home from the Great Patriotic War (as they call their participation in World War II, from 1941 to 1945). 

Read more
Image 3

Day 8 : Bishkek - Karakol

Drive to Karakol along the shore of Issy Kul Lake, stopping en route in Skazka Canyon. Other optional stops include Kyzil Tuu Village and Bokonbaevo Village. Overnight in Karakol. 

Overnight in Karagat Hotel, Karakol

Meal plan: Breakfast

The village of Kyzil Tuu, situated in the Naryn province, specialises in making yurts by hand, the traditional Kyrgyz way. It lies at an altitude of over 2,000 metres above sea level, providing scenic views across the rolling valleys.

Skazka canyon is a valley off the Southern coast of Issy Kul lake near the village of Tosor. It has some beautiful rock landscapes carved out by erosion, featuring a multitude of colours and shapes.

Read more
Image 3

Day 9 : Karakol - Jety-Oguz - Karakol

Visit a Chinese mosque and Holy Trinity Orthodox Cathedral. Later, travel to the Valley of the Flowers and Jety-Oguz gorge, where you will take a light hike through the magnificent canyon. Overnight in Karakol.

Overnight in Karagat Hotel, Karakol

Meal plan: Breakfast

The scenic Jety-Oguz gorge is located just outside of the city of Karakol. 'Jety-Oguz' translates to 'seven bulls'. It is named after the seven dramatic cliffs that span a length of 35km and are thought to resemble seven bulls. The surrounding hot springs, mountain lakes, forests and grasslands boast a rich biodiversity. It makes for a beautiful walking area.

Constructed in 1907 by a Chinese architect and 20 artisans, Karakol's Chinese Mosque showcases distinctive decoration and bright colours in the style of a traditional Chinese temple, created for the local Dungans. However, it was actually built in the Kyrgz wood-feathering style, in which only wood is used for construction without the use of a single nail. 

Located in the centre of Karakol, the Holy Trinity Orthodox Cathedral is a fine example of a Russian Orthodox church. Built on the site of an earlier church in 1895, it served as a dance hall under the Soviet rule before being used as a school during World War Two. It was renovated in the late 1980s and now serves as an active church. Constructed using wooden walls on a stone foundation, the facade is decorated with intricate carvings.

Read more
Image 3

Day 10 : Karakol - Cholpan Ata - Chon-Kemin

Travel to Chon-Kemin Valley, stopping en route to visit the Nikolai Przhevalskii museum near Karakol. Driving along the northern shore of Issyk Kul Lake. Stop to see the petroglyphs at Cholpan Ata. Continue to Chon-Kemin for overnight.

Overnight in Ashu Guesthouse, Chon-Kemin valley

Meal plan: Breakfast

The Nikolai Przhevalskii museum was opened in 1957 in Karakol to commemorate the Russian explorer-scientist, Nikolai Prezhevalskii. During his lifetime, he undertook 4 expeditions to Mongolia, China and Tibet. He researched the geography, flora and fauna of these Central Asian countries, discovering over 200 plant species, as well as doing a little spying for the government, most probably. The museum displays his extensive research alongside a zoological collection that is comprised of various plant, bird, fish and animal samples.

The summer resort town of Cholpan Ata lies on the northern shore of the Issy Kul Lake. It boasts a scenic backdrop of the Tian Shan Mountains and is famed for its many preserved petroglyphs. This prehistoric form of art, where shapes and patterns are carved into rocks, dates back to between 800 BC and 1200 AD. Along with its ethnographic museum, the open-air petroglyph site provides a real insight into the rich heritage of Cholpan Ata. 

Chon-Kemin is a beautiful natural valley where the Chon-Kemin River flows between the Kungei Ala-Too and Iliysky Ala-Too mountain ranges. The valley is a combination of both wild and pastoral landscapes, dense conifer forests and sparse mountains. Its Tien Shan fir forests are famed for their medicinal herbs, mushrooms and edible berries. The area offers excellent hiking, rafting, horse riding and fishing opportunities.

Read more
Image 3

Day 11 : Chon-Kemin - Almaty (Kazakhstan)

Proceed to Almaty, en route visiting Burana Tower, before crossing the border into Kazakhstan. Overnight in Almaty. 

Overnight in Plaza Hotel, Almaty

Meal plan: Breakfast

Burana Tower is a minaret in the Chuy Valley that marks the 9th-century Karakhanid town of Balasagun. The town is believed to have been once considered the centre of the world, but was lost in the mists of time until quite recently. The minaret was originally 45m tall, though only 25m remains due to earthquakes. Nearby a wide variety of statues known as bulbuls dot the landscape. These intriguing statues often hold a cup in one hand and a weapon in their other, to represent their hospitality, and the repercussions for those who might not accept it!
 

Read more
Image 3

Day 12 : Almaty

Take a tour of Almaty, with highlights including Central State Museum, Republic Square and Zenkov Cathedral. Later, travel to Medeu and see the famous skating rink. Overnight in Almaty. 

Overnight in Plaza Hotel, Almaty

Meal plan: Breakfast

Located in Panfilov Park, the Ascension Cathedral, known as Zenkov Cathedral, is a Russian Orthodox cathedral which was completed in 1907. The Zenkov Cathedrall is one of the tallest wooden constructions in the world, standing at 56 metres, and is designed to be earthquake proof, which it succeeded to be when the city was struck in 1911.

Almaty, formerly known as 'Alma-Ata', is the largest city in Kazakhstan. It is located in the foothills of the Trans-lli Alatau mountain and has become the major commercial and cultural hub for the country. 

The Central State Museum in Almaty was originally housed within the former Almaty Cathedral when it opened in 1931. In 1985, a new structure was constructed to properly exhibit the rich history of Kazakhstan. It presents the history of Kazakhstan across four exhibition halls, from the Bronze Age to contemporary times. Exhibits include an archaeological gold collection, ethnographic displays of yurts and exotic costumes, and information on Kazakhstan's many ethnic groups during the 20th and 21st centuries. 

Almaty's Republic Square was constructed in 1980 and was used throughout the rule of the Soviet Union as a place for mass demonstrations, celebrations, festivals and military parades. It was also the site of the infamous 1986 uprising known as Jeltoqsan that occurred in protest over the dismissal of the Kazakh Soviet leader Kunayev.

The Medeu is an outdoor speed skating rink situated at an elevation of 1,691 metres above sea level in the Medeu mountain valley. It has become known as the highest skating rink in the world. 

Read more
Image 3

Day 13 : Almaty - Charyn - Almaty

Drive to Sharyn Canyon, where you will enjoy a light hike to Sharyn River. Overnight in Almaty.

Overnight in Plaza Hotel, Almaty

Meal plan: Breakfast

Charyn Canyon lies in the open plains of Almaty. The red sandstone was cracked open and enlarged by the Sharyn River. After many years of weathering and erosion, the striking canyon and its impressive rock formations were formed. Visitors can walk, raft and take jeep tours through the distinct landscape. Part of the canyon is known as the Valley of Castles for its unusual rock formations.

Read more
Image 3

Day 14 : Almaty

Spend the day at your leisure in Almaty. Later transfer to airport for overnight flight to Ashgabat. 

Overnight in Grand Turkmen Hotel, Ashgabat

Meal plan: Breakfast

Image 3

Day 15 : Ashgabat (Turkmenistan)

Arrive in Ashgabat, where you will be transferred to your hotel. Later, visit Old Nisa Fortress and see monuments including The National Independence Park. Stop at the National Museum of History and Ethnography. Overnight in Ashgabat.

Overnight in Grand Turkmen Hotel, Ashgabat

Meal plan: Breakfast

The National Independence Park is located in the south of the city of Ashgabat. The park contains striking gold monuments and statues of eagles and national heroes. The elaborate design features marble stairs and a 118 metre tall column, which is topped with a crescent moon and five stars - symbolising the unity of five Turkemn tribes. 

The UNESCO-listed ruins of Nisa can be found near to Ashgabat. The settlement was originally founded under the rule of the Parthian king Arsaces I in the 3rd century BC. Excavations of the site have uncovered mausoleums, shrines, ornate ivory rhytons (drinking cups) and Hellenistic works of art, indicating that the site was one of the earliest and most important cities of the Parthian empire. It was destroyed by an earthquake in the 1st century BC.

Ashgabat translates to "the city of love" in Arabic. This city is relatively young, being founded and developed by the Russians at the end of the 19th century. A massive earthquake in 1948 completely destroyed the city and killed two thirds of its population. It was rebuilt by the Soviets in their inimitable style, but the grand white marble palaces, domes and manicured parks seen today have mostly been built in the last 15 years to showcase the country’s oil and gas wealth.

The National Museum of History and Ethnography is a great place to get a feel for Turkmenistan’s long and complex history. It houses over 500,000 artifacts and relics from the country's main archaeological sites, as well as examples of national dress, traditional household equipment, a couple of enormous carpets and some traditional musical instruments

Read more
Image 3

Day 16 : Ashgabat - Mary

Transfer to the airport for flight to Mary. On arrival, travel to Ancient Merv where you will take a tour of the archaeological site. Later, travel back to Mary where you will visit the local History Museum. Overnight in Mary. 

Overnight in Hotel Mary, Mary

Meal plan: Breakfast

Ancient Merv was once a major oasis city on the Silk Road, where evidence of civilisation dates back to the 3rd millennium BC. The ancient site held significant cultural and political importance and is believed to have been the largest city in the world in the 12th century. The walled ruins of Merv have since been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site. It is believed that Genghis Khan slaughtered a million people here when conquering the city.

The city of Mary is located on the Murghab River in the Kara Kum Desert. Formerly known as "Merv", the oasis city was an important stop on the Silk Road. The modern settlement of Mary was founded in 1884, when it became a Russian military administrative centre. It remains a centre for the production and trading of cotton and gas. 

The History Museum in Mary was founded in 1968. It contains over 40,000 exhibits that document the culture, history and heritage of the region. These include traditional clothing, tapestries, manuscripts and historic weapons.

Read more
Image 3

Day 17 : Mary - Ashgabat

Transfer to the airport for return flight to Ashgabat. On arrival, visit the Russian Bazaar before travelling to Arkadash stud farm near Geok Depe. See Geok Depe mosque before touring the complex of Kipchak. Overnight in Ashgabat. 

Overnight in Grand Turkmen Hotel, Ashgabat

Meal plan: Breakfast

The Russian Bazaar, or Gulistan, was built between 1972 and 1982, making it one of the oldest covered markets in Turkmenistan. The building was designed in the Soviet Modernism style and decorated by the Turkmen sculptor, Klych Yaramamedov, who created beautiful abstract sculptures. The bazaar houses a wide range of goods, shops and eateries, which is still popular among tourists and locals alike. 

Geok Depe, also known as Geok Tepe, is a former fortress in the oasis of Ahal, on the Transcaspian railway. The walled fortress was attacked by Russians in a siege that lasted 23 days, after which the city was defeated. Saparmurat Hajji Mosque was built to commemorate the defeat.

Kipchak was the home village of the first President of Turkmenistan, Saparmurat Niyazov, and the site of the impressive white marble Kipchak Mosque. Also known as the Turkmenbashi Ruhy Mosque, it is the largest mosque in Central Asia, with an overall capacity of 10,000 people. It was built between 2002 and 2004 for Niyazov, who is buried in the mausoleum aloongside his family. It cost Turkmenistan $100,000,000 to constrcut and its image is featured on the national 500 TMT banknotes.
Read more
Image 3

Day 18 : Departure

Transfer to the airport for your departure flight.

Meal plan: Breakfast

Accommodation

Accommodation

All accommodation subject to availability. Final accommodation choices will be confirmed after booking.

Image 3

Hilton Dushanbe 5*

Dushanbe (3 nights)

Located in the centre of Dushanbe, the Hilton Dushanbe offers unbeatable services and modern amentiies. It features two onsite restaurants and bars, providing unique Tajik dining experiences,  and a fitness centre and large swimming pool. All rooms are equipped with air conditioning and satellite TV. 

Visit hotel's site
Image 3

Hotel Khudjan Deluxe

Khujand (1 night)

The Hotel Khudjan Deluxe offers views of the mountains, river or city from some rooms. Each room is equipped with bathrobes, slippers and toiletries. Other amenities include an onsite restaurant, seating areas for guests to relax and TVs. 

Image 3

Hotel Sughd

Penjikent (2 nights)

Hotel Sughd offers clean, modern and nicely sized rooms. Rooms have air conditioning, a small fridge and WiFi. There's a small market across the road to pick up necessities. 

Image 3

Hotel Plaza

Bishkek (1 night)

Hotel Plaza acts as a haven for the bustling city life in Bishkek. The on-site spa, sauna and fitness centre are great places to unwind. The restaurant is celebrated for its European and Asian cuisine. The bar offers a range of beverages from French wine to classical cocktails. 

Visit hotel's site
Image 3

Karagat Hotel

Karakol (2 nights)

Set in Karakol, Karagat Hotel has a terrace, a shared lounge and a bar. This hotel offers a 24-hour front desk, room service and free WiFi. All rooms are fitted with a terrace with views of the mountain. Guest rooms at the hotel come with a seating area and a flat-screen TV. Rooms are fitted with a private bathroom, and selected rooms also feature a balcony. A continental breakfast can be enjoyed in the breakfast area. 

Visit hotel's site
Image 3

Ashu Guesthouse

Chon-Kemin valley (1 night)

Ashu Guesthouse can be found in the picturesque Chon-Kemin valley. The guesthouse offers travellers a traditional experience. Visitors can relax and enjoy the rural way of life - tasting local delicaicies and staying overnight in traditional Kyrgz cottages. All the bedrooms are furnished with locally produced handicrafts and artwork. They are also equipped with basic modern comforts, including an ensuite bathroom, to allow for a comfortable stay. Guests can spend their free time in the gardens of the guesthouse or opting to explore the surrounding mountains. 

Image 3

Plaza Hotel

Almaty (3 nights)

The Plaza hotel is conveniently located, and has all the amenities for a 4-star hotel. The restaurant offers local and European cuisine, and the hotel offers spa services. 

Visit hotel's site
Image 3

Grand Turkmen Hotel

Ashgabat (3 nights)

The Grand Turkmen Hotel in Ashgabat provides simple, yet comfortable accommodation to those exploring the region. The spacious bedrooms are fitted with modern furnishings and amenities. Guests can also enjoy the hotel swimming pool, tennis court and games room during their stay. 

Image 3

Hotel Mary

Mary (1 night)

Opposite of the town's bazaar is Hotel Mary. The hotel is equipped with air conditioning, an onsite restaurant, fitness centre, sauna and swimming pool. It also has a chemist and hairdresser. 

Extensions

Baikonur Cosmodrome & Soviet Space History (5 days)

Extend your trip to the Baikonur Cosmodrome

Five Stan Odyssey (along the Silk Road) (30 days)

Get under the skin of all five 'Stans'

Journey Through The 4 Stans (18 days)

History and landscapes of the Stans beyond Uzbekistan

Kazakhstan Explorer (11 days)

Impressive clay canyons, singing sand dunes, and hiking.

Kazakhstan Rocket Launch (11 days)

Get blown away with a mix of rockets, culture, and national parks.

Highlights of Kazakhstan (7 days)

Vast steppe landscapes, traditional culture and eagle hunters!

Reviews

A fascinating trip to the old Soviet Central Asia, an extraordinary mixture of cultures, peoples and religions. On the old Silk Road, I followed in the footsteps of Alexander The Great, Tamberlane and Genghiz Khan - all of whom - I am reliably informed - booked through Travel The Unknown.

Anthony Twohig , Journey Through the 4 Stans & Central Asia extension

I would recommend the 4 Stan trip to anyone who has already enjoyed Uzbekistan and wants to have a varied trip around some of the best that the other countries of Central Asia have to offer... mountain scenery to match the Alps and the Himalayas; vast steppe and desert landscapes; cities both ancient (Silk Road ruins) and modern (vibrant, cosmopolitan with interesting modern architecture and remnants of Soviet & Tsarist past). Lots of travel companies are offering Silk Road trips these days but this is special and so far, one of a kind !

Julie Crank , Journey Through the 4 Stans

We spent a memorable month in Central Asia, travelling through four 'Stans. The long history of ethnic diversity and exchange of cultural ideas make it a fascinating place. The architecture and landscapes were breathtaking and the hospitality and warmth of the people unforgettable.

Dave Every , Tailormade 'Stans'

Travel The Unknown proved to be knowledgeable, efficient and flexible. An extensive and packed itinerary ran like clockwork. The quality of accommodation, food, guides and the friendliness of all the people of Central Asia were all surprisingly good and better than anticipated. An excellent trip!

Peter & Janice Lacey , Tailormade Five Stans

Just back from my trip through Tajikistan, Kyrgyzstan and Kazakhstan. It was a fantastic trip with many highlights - I was looking forward to the trip but it exceeded my expectations. The scenery in Tajikistan is stunning with some great sites. One of the highlights was the land border crossing into Kyrgyzstan at 4,200m above sea level. The Bradt guide describes it as "undeniably one of the last truly adventurous road trips that can be made in the 21st century" hard to disagree with them. The drive along the border with Afghanistan, along the Pamir highway and visiting the Wakhan corridor were also very memorable. The highlight of the entire trip were the two weeks spent in Kyrgyzstan - it is a really beautiful country with so much to see and do. I had a fantastic guide (Tatiana) and driver (Daniar) I got the opportunity to do many walks as Tatiana also liked walking. Daniar also had a reasonable amount of English so it was like having 2 guides. The vehicle (Toyota Landcruiser) was modern and very comfortable which is important as we did 3,100km. Before departing I was somewhat concerned about the standard of some of the accommodation- while the homestays in Tajikistan were pretty basic but this was the only way of getting to some fantastic remote locations. The standard in Kyrgyzstan was good and one of the highlights was the stay at Reina Kench Farm situated in a great location and the food was some of the best we had on the entire trip - would highly recommend it (Wi-Fi also excellent). The food in Kyrgyzstan and Kazakhstan was great and very varied. Kyrgyzstan also had some interesting historical sites (Osh, Tash Rabat and Bishkek ) whereas many view it as more of a destination for scenic mountains and valleys. Kazakhstan was very interesting and I would really like to explore the rest of the country as many interesting sites and scenery - the two guides we had were very good. Having spent over 7 weeks in the Stans over the past 12 months I think it is a great area and one I plan to return to. Thanks for your help in organising the trip for me.

Brendan Fitzgerald , Journey Through the Stans
More reviews