Central Asia Tours & Trips
Picture yourself strolling through Ashgabat, its streets a gleaming expanse of marble, the buildings a brilliant white under the relentless desert sun. Behold the Darvaza Gas Crater, also known as the "Door to Hell," a perpetual inferno that comes alive at twilight. Wander through the ancient remnants and mosques of Khiva, a city that has stood the test of time. In Bukhara, a former center for Silk Road trade, admire the historic landmarks, their surfaces decorated with elaborate mosaics.
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Leanne • traveled in November, 2025
This tour exceeded my expectations in every way - the itinerary, the activities, the accommodations, the transportation, and the countless memorable moments. I didn't do extensive research on the cities or highlights beforehand, so every day was a chance to see, do, and learn so many new things. I enjoyed the city guides who really brought the history and culture to life, and our tour manager, Lyuben, kept our group on track, informed, and so well taken care of, even when the unexpected popped up. He made the trip so seamless and enjoyable, if you ever get a chance to have him lead your tour, you will not have a single worry!
The Ultimate 5 Stans Tour: Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, and Turkmenistan – Discover Central Asia in 16 Days - MR
Muhammad • traveled in January, 2026
Overall, the Central Asia trip was exceptionally well organised, especially considering the challenge of fitting such a detailed and wide-ranging programme into 14 days. Covered a remarkable amount of ground in a short time, with a very good balance of history, culture, nature, architecture, and free time. For the most part, the hotels were very comfortable and well located, which greatly enhanced the overall experience and helped offset the intensity of the itinerary. In terms of transport, there were a few areas that could be improved. In Uzbekistan, it would have been preferable to have a guide accompany us continuously rather than leaving us on our own between Bukhara to Samarkand, and Samarkand to Tashkent. We were extremely grateful to the driver who waited and drove hours to transfer some passengers’ luggage, despite not being a guide himself. For long journeys (e.g. in Turkmenistan), vehicles with more legroom or additional seating would also have been appreciated, as the cramped conditions made extended rides quite uncomfortable. Regarding accommodation, it would be helpful to prioritise hotels with lifts or ramps, as the hotels in Samarkand required climbing stairs, which could be challenging for some travelers. Turkmenistan was memorable. The guide, Jabar, was fantastic - highly accommodating, helpful with money changing, and very attentive to the group’s needs. Moving around independently outside of shopping was difficult, so having a guide was essential, and the hotel’s location near a shopping mall made self-exploration easier. Immigration was surprisingly smooth, with Jabar accompanying me through the visa process and even helping me bypass long queues during the luggage checks. Connectivity was limited, with WhatsApp largely restricted, though Gmail worked and messages occasionally came through slowly. One observation - the guide’s explanations felt quite pro-government, with little discussion on the nature of the political system or the lack of flights to the rest of the Stans even though it claimed to be connecting with the rest of the world. That said, Merv felt largely skippable. The long, bumpy roads to Merv were uncomfortable, and the sights did not justify the effort. It would have been far more comfortable to fly directly from Ashgabat to Istanbul and onward to Uzbekistan, even if it involved higher costs. This could have freed up time for an additional day in Kazakhstan or Tajikistan. The overland crossing from Turkmenistan to Uzbekistan at the Farap border was particularly arduous, involving about 1.5 hours of walking, two passport clearances, checks at multiple points, and several short bus rides, making it a very tiring experience. In Uzbekistan, after the long border crossing, rest could be made a priority. So, it would have been preferable for the Uzbek guide, Akmal, to skip the lengthy introductory talk on the bus and save it for the following day. There were also discrepancies between the travel voucher and the actual programme. In Bukhara on Day 4, the morning became a walking tour of neighbourhood details such as doors, windows, and car brands, while sites like the Ismail Samani Mausoleum, Chashma Ayub Mausoleum, and Bolo Khauz Mosque were not visited. One piece of feedback is to consider providing English translations alongside Arabic terms when introducing Islamic norms and practices, as many travelers are not aware of the Arabic meanings. I ended up translating several terms into English. In Samarkand, the guide Grigory struggled with English and relied heavily on notes prior to sharing with the group, and while an unplanned visit to the Afrasiyab archaeological site was included, the Rukhabad Mausoleum listed in the voucher was skipped. In Tashkent, there was some miscommunication regarding the morning tour with the guide Zarina, but it was resolved thereafter. The morning trip was informative and explained Islam in Central Asia in a simple, easy-to-understand manner for the group. The schedule in Tajikistan was handled efficiently despite tight timing. Amir, the guide, made a commendable effort to cover most of the lakes and even included a visit to the Panjakent Central Market Bazaar before proceeding to the land border crossing, which added a nice local touch to the day visit. Kyrgyzstan stood out very positively due to the guide. Nursultan’s humour, clear and engaging explanations, and willingness to accommodate the group’s many requests — especially stops at souvenir shops — made the experience enjoyable and relaxed. Nursultan was friendly, attentive, and an excellent guide who added a lot of value to this portion of the trip. In Kazakhstan, however, the city tour felt rushed. Rustem seemed eager to complete the afternoon programme quickly, and although the tour in the early evening, his quick departure from the group left an impression that he was in a hurry, which detracted slightly from the otherwise engaging visit. Overall, despite some logistical challenges, itinerary deviations, and comfort-related issues, the trip was a rich and rewarding journey through Central Asia. The strong organisation, dedicated guides in some countries, and the sheer diversity of experiences made it a memorable adventure, with opportunities for refinement to make future tours even better.
Trip to the Five Stans - Exploring the Wonders of Central Asia, 15 days - L
Ljubomir • traveled in November, 2025
The tour is well conceived and managed. Kristina, our tour guide, did her best to make everyone feel happy and safe. We were also lucky with the tour group, consisting of indidividuals from all corners of the globe but the dynamics and interpersonal exchange within the group were very motivating. Technical part of the tour (logistics, accomodations) was good. The only complaint is that the organiser (Penguin) didn't want to cover the early check-in cost at the beginning of the tour. All the participants came to the venue (hotel in Bishkek, Kyrgizstan) early in the morning due to their flight schedules, but they had to pay the early check-in contribution by themselves although it was the official Day 1 of the tour for which the tour operatoir already paid the first night accomodation.
The 5 Stan-s - Follow in the footsteps of Genghis Khan
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Table of contents
- The best Central Asia tour packages
- Travel Central Asia your way
- Best tour companies for Central Asia tours
- Discover Central Asia tours for every budget
- Central Asia tours for every type of group
- Top Central Asia travel itineraries to fit your plans
- Demographics
- Best time to visit Central Asia
- Contact our Central Asia travel experts
- What our customers ask about Central Asia Tours & Trips
The best Central Asia tour packages
Compiled by
MelissaCentral Asia travel expert at TourRadar
The Five Stans of The Silk Road
16 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“This was the most interesting, fascinating and enjoyable trip I have been on. I came away in love with the countries.”
Gary, traveled in August
This 21-day expedition across 5 countries flows from Kyrgyzstan's Bishkek to Turkmenistan's Ashgabat. The Fann Mountains' Seven Lakes, UNESCO-listed Samarkand's turquoise domes, and Bukhara's trading routes paint a vivid picture. Traditional yurts and guesthouses provide authentic accommodation.
Duration 21 days Destinations Kyrgyzstan, Kazakhstan, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, Turkmenistan Age Range Ages 16+ Operator Explore! From $7,200
20% Off- US$5,760You save $1,440
The Ultimate 5 Stans Tour: Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, and Turkmenistan – Discover Central Asia in 16 Days
11 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“The seamless transitions between countries, the diverse landscapes, and the warm hospitality made it unforgettable.”
Patricia, traveled in June
This comfort-level tour through Central Asia's five republics includes Tajikistan's Pamir-Alay mountains, Kyrgyzstan's eagle hunter demonstration at Issyk Kul Lake, and Uzbekistan's Silk Road treasures in Samarkand, Bukhara, and Khiva. Check out the 15th-century Gur-Emir Mausoleum, stay overnight at the burning Darvaza Gas Crater in the Karakum Desert, and see Kazakhstan's Charyn Canyon and the UNESCO-listed Burana Tower. Groups of 8-16 travelers aged 12+ join this tour, with most bookings in May and October, featuring expert guides and seamless transport including 4x4 desert crossings.
Duration 16 days Destinations Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan Age Range Ages 12+ Operator Adventure Bound LTD From
20% Off- US$3,574
The 5 Stan-s - Follow in the footsteps of Genghis Khan
77 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“Really enjoyed the tour, lots to see! Well organized.”
Nimpa, traveled in September
A 21-day Central Asian adventure encompasses 19 cities across 5 countries, showcasing UNESCO treasures like Khiva's Ichan Kala and Samarkand's Registan Square. The route winds from Kyrgyzstan's alpine Chon-Kemin Valley to Turkmenistan's Darvaza crater, mixing traditional yurt stays with legendary bazaar visits.
Duration 21 days Destinations Kyrgyzstan, Kazakhstan, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, Turkmenistan Age Range Ages 18+ Operator Penguin Travel From
20% Off- US$2,792+$350 local payments
Trip to the Five Stans - Exploring the Wonders of Central Asia, 15 days
20 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“Great scenery, architecture, and different culture. I would definitely come back and visit Bhukara, Samarkand, and Bishkek.”
Phillip, traveled in September
Central Asia's Silk Road unfolds at approx. $240 per day, connecting 13 cities across 5 countries. Stand in awe at Samarkand's Registan Square, hike Kyrgyzstan's Ala-Archa National Park, and gaze into Kazakhstan's 300m-deep Charyn Canyon. English guides lead the way with stays at comfortable 3-4* hotels.
Duration 15 days Destinations Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, Kyrgyzstan, Kazakhstan Age Range Ages 12+ Operator Central Asia Travel LP From $3,595
8% Off- US$3,305You save $290
Central Asia: Five Stans Express
1 Review by TourRadar travelers“The Central Asia tour was extremely enjoyable and included a varied mix of history, old and new cities along the Silk Road.”
YELENA, traveled in October
This 24-day journey across 5 countries stretches from Ashgabat's marble streets to ancient Silk Road cities. Admire Uzbekistan's stunning Samarkand mosques, trek Kyrgyzstan's alpine lakes, and venture into Kazakhstan's Charyn Canyon. Unique accommodations include yurts, homestays, and camping at the 'Door to Hell' crater.
Duration 24 days Destinations Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan Age Range Ages 15+ Operator Intrepid Travel From $7,490
5% Off- US$7,116You save $375
Duration 23 days Destinations Turkmenistan, Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, Kazakhstan Age Range All Ages Welcome Operator Steppe Journeys From
5% Off- US$5,775
See the UNESCO-listed Burana Tower in Kyrgyzstan, the ancient Silk Road city of Samarkand with its grand Registan Square, and the perfectly preserved medieval city of Bukhara. Accommodation includes 18 nights in hotels, 3 nights in guesthouses, and 1 night in a traditional yurt near the blazing Darvaza Crater in Turkmenistan. Check out the 2,000-year-old Parthian Fortress of Nisa and see the white-marble architecture of Ashgabat, home to the world's most marble buildings.
Duration 23 days Destinations Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan Age Range Ages 16+ Operator Exodus Adventure Travels From $9,598
20% Off- US$7,680You save $1,918
5 Stans - A Journey to Central Asia
1 Review by TourRadar travelers“The tour was generally ok, but there were some specific issues that I shall comment later.”
Ian, traveled in September
A 19-day cultural immersion visits UNESCO treasures like ancient Nisa, Merv ruins, and Konye Urgench. Traditional yurt camps near Ayaz Kala provide authentic stays, while Samarkand's Registan Square and Issyk Kul Lake showcase regional diversity. Luxuriate at the Wyndham Tashkent and Rixos Almaty.
Duration 19 days Destinations Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan Age Range Ages 10+ Operator Flo Tours From
20% Off- US$6,975
Best of Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan
17 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“It was an experience of a lifetime with the bus driver dodging various animals.”
Ruth, traveled in September
Central Asia reveals its hidden gems in this 14-day adventure across three countries. The itinerary features treks in the Fann Mountains, visits to ancient Mug Teppe fortress, and stays in traditional yurts at 3,016m Song Kul Lake. Local families welcome visitors in Saty Village and Gazza Village.
Duration 14 days Destinations Kyrgyzstan, Kazakhstan, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan Age Range Ages 12+ Operator G Adventures From
20% Off- US$3,099
High-speed trains carry you along the ancient Silk Road, crossing borders from Kyrgyzstan through Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan to Turkmenistan. Stay 12 nights in hotels and one night in a tourist yurt camp near Issyk-Kul Lake. Hike through Charyn Canyon and spend time at the medieval Ulug Beg observatory in Samarkand. Wander through Chorsu Bazaar in Tashkent and see Zenkov Cathedral in Almaty's Panfilov Park, the world's second-tallest wooden structure.
Duration 16 days Destinations Kyrgyzstan, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Turkmenistan Age Range Ages 15+ Operator Intrepid Travel From $5,395
15% Off- US$4,586You save $809
Travel Central Asia your way
More travel styles:
Best tour companies for Central Asia tours
Travelers consistently rate East Site as one of the better choices for exploring Central Asia, with guides Alexander and Ilyas earning special mentions for their knowledge and attentive service. Their tours run smoothly with reliable transport and thoughtful organization. Kolpak Travel's guide Tatiana Potanina stands out for going the extra mile - she really takes care of her groups and adapts plans to match what travelers want to see and do. Penguin Travel's Five Stans tour has more mixed feedback. While their route planning and most hotels hit the mark, their guide Emil didn't meet expectations - several of our customers found him difficult to work with and not very helpful. The Seven Hotel in Bishkek needs improvement, and there were issues with their backup hotel choice in Ashgabat as well. If you're looking at Central Asian tours, East Site currently offers the most reliable experience from start to finish. Their guides know how to handle the occasional bumps that come with traveling through these regions, and they've worked out solid partnerships with local hotels and transport companies.
Discover Central Asia tours for every budget
Central Asia budget tours38 tours
Starting from
$89
per day
Central Asia tours for every type of group
Who are you traveling with?
Top Central Asia travel itineraries to fit your plans
Demographics
- Solo Travelers254 tours
- Couples223 tours
- Seniors (50+)74 tours
Best time to visit Central Asia
- Winter 2025 / 2026
Winter tours in Central Asia focus on indoor cultural experiences that show off the region's heritage. Popular routes kick off in Tashkent with visits to the Khast Imam Complex, then connect to Samarkand and Bukhara via high-speed trains. Our customers particularly enjoy the winter festivals happening in Uzbekistan's ancient cities - you'll catch local musicians performing in restored madrasas and share traditional meals in family homes. The covered bazaars of Bukhara and Khiva let you explore centuries of trading history while staying warm, and over at Chimbulak resort near Almaty you can hit the slopes with amazing views of the snow-covered Tian Shan peaks.
- 101 tours
- popular 104 tours
- 76 tours
- Spring 2026
Spring is when Central Asia really comes alive and our tours fill up quickly. You'll find wildflower meadows and snowy peaks around Lake Issyk Kul, plus perfect weather for wandering through Samarkand's grand plazas. The spring festivals in the Ferghana Valley are a highlight - our travelers love watching the master craftsmen working in traditional silk workshops and ceramic studios. It's also the ideal time for hiking the Fann Mountains to see the Seven Lakes, each one showing off a different color from turquoise to deep purple. May is especially popular since you can catch the nomads moving their yurt camps up to higher pastures, giving you a real look at traditions that have lasted centuries.
- 134 tours
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- popular 228 tours
- Summer 2026
Summer in Central Asia is all about mountain landscapes and nomadic life. Our most popular routes mix stays in traditional yurt camps by Song Kul Lake with visits to eagle hunters near Lake Issyk Kul. The summer festivals in Kyrgyzstan are a big draw - you can watch traditional horse games and try kumis (fermented mare's milk) with local families. The Fann Mountain trails offer great hiking with clear skies that are perfect for photographing the mineral-colored lakes and sharp peaks. Many of our customers choose tours that include Arslanbob's walnut forests - the biggest natural walnut forest in the world - and love escaping the summer heat up in the high pastures.
- 237 tours
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- popular 246 tours
- Fall / Autumn 2026
Fall brings ideal conditions for exploring Silk Road cities and desert landscapes. Our September and October tours consistently get top ratings - travelers love the comfortable temperatures for exploring Bukhara's old town and Samarkand's impressive squares. Over in Turkmenistan, camping by the Darvaza gas crater under clear autumn skies is quite an experience, while the markets are full of fresh harvest goods and traditional foods. Several routes take advantage of the mild weather for hikes in the Charyn Canyon, where the red sandstone cliffs show their richest colors. Fall visits to Ferghana Valley's artisan workshops are especially popular - you can try making traditional felt and watch expert potters working their craft.
- popular 232 tours
- 181 tours
- 95 tours
Contact our Central Asia travel experts
Sulu
Expert in Central Asia at TourRadar
Sulu is one of our seasoned Central Asia Travel Experts. Reach out to us to get all your questions about Central Asia tours answered!
- Choose from 387+ Central Asia tours
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Call us
+1 844 311 8331What our customers ask about Central Asia Tours & Trips
What Makes Central Asia So Special for Travelers?
You'll discover this incredible crossroads where ancient civilizations meet right in the heart of the Silk Road. The region's just amazing with its mix of historical cities like Samarkand Bukhara and Khiva where you can really feel the past come alive. Between the soaring Tian Shan mountains and sprawling Kyzylkum desert you'll experience everything from authentic nomadic traditions to some of the most dramatic landscapes you've ever seen.
What Kind of Cultural Experiences Can I Actually Try?
There's so much hands-on stuff to do here! In Kochkor Kyrgyzstan you can learn how locals make those beautiful felt carpets and over in Tokmok you'll witness some really exciting horseback wrestling and traditional polo matches. Love food? You can join a bread-making class and learn to make Boorsok Kyrgyzstan's national bread. Head to Bokonbayevo to see incredible eagle hunters in action and spend nights in traditional yurts by Lake Issyk-Kul for that real nomadic experience. The ancient Burana Tower from the 11th century is pretty special too it's what remains of the old city of Balasagun.
How Do You Get Around the Five 'Stans'?
Getting around's actually pretty straightforward these days. The Afrosiyob high-speed train zips through Uzbekistan connecting places like Samarkand and Bukhara in just under 2 hours which is super convenient. For crossing borders and reaching those out-of-the-way spots like the Seven Lakes in Tajikistan or the Darvaza Crater in Turkmenistan we use private vehicles and buses. Our tours mix these different ways of traveling to make sure you get the full experience.
Any Hidden Gems Worth Checking Out?
Oh definitely! You've got to see the Seven Lakes region in Tajikistan it's absolutely stunning. The Skazka Canyon in Kyrgyzstan - they call it Fairytale Canyon and you'll see why when you're there. The Erbent Desert community in Turkmenistan is pretty special too really off the beaten path. Art lovers should definitely check out the Savitsky gallery in Nukus Uzbekistan visitors keep telling us it's just fabulous!