Silk Road Adventure
Silk Road Adventure
Silk Road Adventure
22 Days Starting and ending in Tashkent
Visiting: Tashkent , Almaty, Song Kul Lake , Karakol, Bokonbayevo Village, Naryn, Tash Rabat , Chichkan, Osh , Fergana, Khujand, Fann Mountains, Penjikent, Samarkand , Bukhara
Tour operator:
Tour code:
SATT
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Group size:
1 - 15
Age range:
12-90
Special diets catered:
Vegetarians
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Interests:
Activities:
Private Available:
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Tour Overview
Designed especially for travellers who seek adventure among lakes and mountains, this journey traverses some of the least travelled routes of the Silk Road enabling you to conjoure the spirit of adventure of the explorers of old. You will be rewarded with breathtaking scenery in unspoilt, expansive wilderness, magical architecture and culinary delights.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Tashkent
Location: Tashkent
Beginning in the Uzbek capital of Tashkent, the heart of the Silk Road, take the chance to explore the old town and Chorsu Bazaar, one of the oldest and largest Bazaars in Central Asia, found in the unique complex of trade halls crowned with magnificent blue domes. In the evening of Day 1 you join your Tour Leader and fellow travellers at 5:00pm for your Welcome Meeting as detailed on your joining instructions.
Day 2: Tashkent
Location: Almaty
Half Day Tashkent City Tour including Khast Imam square, Chorsu bazaar, Amir Timur square, Monument of Courage, Mustakiliq square, Museum of Applied Art
Day 3: Tashkent To Almaty By Train
Location: Almaty
We have an early morning train to whisk us to Kazakhstan and arrive late at night into Almaty.
Day 4: Almaty
Location: Almaty
Nestled into the mountains Almaty will deliver diversity of architecture, history, influences and cuisine. We spend some time exploring the city inluding the fascinating Ascension Cathedral (Zenkov Cathedral), a wooden structure built entirely without nails.
Day 5: To Karkara Via Charyn
Location: Song Kul Lake
Often referred to as the "Valley of Castles" due to the unique rock formations that resemble medieval castles, today we visit the spectactular Charyn Canyon. The Karkara Valley is also famous for its mare's milk called “Kumys”, a traditional drink in Central Asia. Tonight we sleep in yurts.
Day 6: To Karakol
Location: Karakol
After breakfast, we drive along beautiful mountain ridges and vast green valleys to reach Karakol visiting horse stables on the way to see the marvellous horses of Kyrgyzstan.
Upon arrival in Karakol we have a city tour.
Day 7: To Bokonbaevo
Location: Bokonbayevo Village
We drive along the southern shore of magnificent Lake Issyk Kul to Bokonbaevo village. One of the few places left in Kyrgyzstan where eagles are still trained we can take the time to visit with an eagle hunting family and learn about this ancient nomadic tradition.
We also stop in beautiful Skazka (Fairy Tale) Canyon. The canyon consist of mottled petrified clay and look very picturesque with dark blue Issyk Kul Lake in the background.
Day 8: To Naryn
Location: Naryn
After breakfast we drive to Naryn making stops along the way. We visit Kochkor village along the southern shore of the Issyk Kul Lake and learn about local felt production.
In Naryn we enjoy a city tour including the local museum, art gallery and central square.
Day 9: Day Excursion To Tash Rabat
Location: Tash Rabat
We drive to Tash Rabat, the only building of its kind in Kyrgyzstan, a 10-15th century caravanaserai situated in a picturesque valley. Enjoy the views, consider the footsteps that have passed this way on the ancient Silk Road and relax in nature.
We return to Naryn for the night.
Day 10: To Son-Kul
Location: Song Kul Lake
We leave Naryn to journey to Son-Kul Lake, renowned for its stunning scenery, surrounded by rolling hills and snowy peaks of the Tian Shan mountains. Are you brave enough for a dip?
We stay the night in local yurts.
Day 11: To Chichkan Via Suusamyr
Location: Chichkan
Chichkan provides a remote and tranquil setting and we enjoy the mountain scenery, sometimes blanketed in flowers or in snow. We travel via Suusamyr valley, famous for its lush pastures and wild horses. The remote location and high altitude can provide clear night skies, making it an ideal spot for stargazing.
Day 12: To Osh Via Uzgen
Location: Osh
Our journey takes us to Osh, strategically positioned at the eastern gateway of the Fergana Valley, and which prospered with Silk Road trade until the Mongol armies destroyed the city in the 13th century. This afternoon we gain an insight into its heart and soul visiting the spiritual Suleiman Mountains as well as its colourful bazaar.
Day 13: To Fergana
Location: Fergana
Today we cross the border to Uzbekistan and explore the Fergana Valley. Famous for silk weaving and potters there is an opportunity to witness many of these ancient crafts still being produced today.
Day 14: To Khujand
Location: Khujand
Today we visit the potters of Rishton, Kokand Fortress and then on to Khujand. One of the oldest cities on the Silk Road, Khujand in Tajikistan has a history dating back more than 2,500 years and is located on the Syr Darya River.
Day 15: To The Fann Mountains And Seven Lakes
Location: Fann Mountains
Today we have the opportunity to visit the pristine natural environment of the Seven Lakes in the Shing Valley nestled in the rugged peaks of the Fann Mountains. We enjoy exploring the turquoise lakes and lush landscapes.
Tonight our accommodation will reflect our rustic surroundings and will have shared facilities.
Day 16: To Penjikent And To Samarkand
Location: Penjikent
Today we travel to the Zeravshan River valley and the town of Penjikent. The ruins of the ancient Sogdian city of Panjakent dates back to the 5th–8th and includes well-preserved ruinsi ncluding the citadel, and Zoroastrian fire temples. From there we continue our journey to Golden Samarkand.
Day 17: Samarkand
Location: Samarkand
Samarkand never fails to impress.The Registan is simply the most spectacular architectural ensemble in Central Asia. Comprised of three madrassas (places of learning) and a mosque, this beautiful square is inspiring. Other highlights include Shah-IZinda, with its narrow alleys of tombs and mausoleums, Bibi Khanym Mosque and the Ulug Bek Observatory. We also take the time to visit Guy-Emir Mausoleum, the resting place of fearsome Tamerlane.
Day 18: Samarkand
Location: Samarkand
Another day to explore this wonderous city.
Day 19: To Bukhara
Location: Bukhara
This morning we board our train to Bukhara and spend the afternoon starting to explore this city of living history. From the Ark Fortress that sits imposingly in the centre of town we gain an appreciation for the import this city had during ancient times.
Day 20: Bukhara
Location: Bukhara
Today we spend more time exploring in the covered bazaars where rugs, silks and spices are still traded as they were in the heyday of the Silk Road and exploring them gives a real sense of what it could have been like in the days of Marco Polo. Spend time sitting by the city ponds in the shade of the mulberry trees and reflect on all that you have seen.
Day 21: To Tashkent
Location: Tashkent
Spend the morning at leisure before we journey back to where we began, joining an afternoon train to Tashkent.
Day 22: Tashkent
Location: Tashkent
Our adventure has drawn to a close. Say farewell to your travelling companions and tour leader before departing your hotel.
What's Included
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Accommodation
19 hotel / guesthouse (twin share), 1 yurt (shared), 1 train (shared 2 berth)
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Additional Services
Comprehensive schedule of sightseeing with certified Local Guides.
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Airport Transfers at Destination
All transfers including to and from the airport
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Fully Guided
An experienced Tour Leader accompanies the whole journey to keep your adventure on track. Local Guides are native to each destination and as certified professionals will share their immense knowledge with you. 24/7 support is available in the office and on the ground.
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Meals
20 breakfasts, 10 lunches, 12 dinners
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Transport
Flight between Bishkek and Tashkent
What's Not Included
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Insurance
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International Travel
Check out our Q&As
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Do you require a visa for this holiday?
Depending on your passport you may require visas for this journey. You will be provided with a comprehensive set of visa guidelines to assist you.
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Can I travel independently on this journey?
Yes, Sundowners Overland can created a customised Tailor Made journey to meet your needs should you wish to travel independently through these regions.
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What is the maximum group size?
Small group tours ensure an intimate experience and all of our tours have a maxumum group size of 15.
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Are all entrance fees included in the price?
Yes, all entrance fees for scheduled sightseeing are included.
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Are airport transfers included in this tour?
Yes, all arrival and departure transfers are included to and from the airport.
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Is there a supplement for solo travellers?
There are no single supplements on group tours if you are happy to share wtih fellow travellers. If you craft a custom journey or would prefer private hotel accommodation a single supplement may apply.
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Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?
Like-minded, well travelled clients who you are sure to forge lasting friendships with as you unlock the wonders of the world together.
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Can I create a customised journey with Sundowners Overland
Yes. All of our group tours can be used as a starting point to create your own adventure. Whether travelling alone or in a private group the options are endless. We are happy to work with you to craft a journey that meets your interests and requirements.
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How long has the tour company been trading?
Since 1964
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Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?
There are no single supplements on group tours if you are happy to share with fellow travelers. If you craft a custom journey or would prefer private hotel accommodation, a single supplement may apply.
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What documents will I receive before I travel?
Comprehensive tour documentation and visa guidelines
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What policies are in place for Covid-19?
Please see full booking conditions for details.
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Can I join the tour once it has departed?
Contact us to see if an alternative start point applies to your chosen journey.
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Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
Yes, we ensure that all accommodation is of a suitable standard for our journeys.
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What happens if I need to change my holiday date once I’ve booked?
Please see full booking conditions for details
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Low Deposit
Sundowners Overland requires a minimum deposit of 10% or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 75 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of sundowners overland charges.
Up to 75 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 74 days before tour starts: Forfeit 30% of booking price.
At 44 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 30 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
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