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.
Excellent
- Choose from 350+ Central Asia tours
- 750+ verified reviews from TourRadar travelers
- 24/7 customer support
- 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 - L
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 - F
Filipinas • traveled in November, 2025
Days 7,8 & 9 of the tour schedule needs to be revised for better coordination of time spent in each country ,because there's not enough time to rest for having to wake up so very early to transfer to the next country. There should be a better communication of pick up when transfering to the border like what we have experienced during our transfer from Turkmenistan to Kyrgysztan where we had to ride the shuttle bus two times & then have to walk about half a mile to meet the next tour guide and then transfer to a Van to the hotel in Kyrgysztan. That was really very tiring & stressful. We had also encountered the same problem when we transfered to the border of Kazasktan , where we had to wait for more than 1 hr for the tour guide to pick us up & then later the tour guide told us that they were delayed due to car problems. The tour going to the Darvasa Gas crater was a wonderful experience & I really enjoyed it, the only set back was the rough road with so many potholes that made the road very bumpy & shakes your whole body during the trip. One of our companions in the 4 wheel drive SUV had to tell the driver to stop immediately to empty her urinary bladder under the bushes because we were in the middle of a desert. In regards to the trip to Tajikistan, the only set back was the rough & bumpy road going up the mountain to visit the 7 Lakes that took 4 hrs roundtrip. Overall I have experienced 75% positive & 25 % negative .
Trip to the Five Stans - Exploring the Wonders of Central Asia, 15 days
Traveler Photos & Videos from Central Asia tours
AKAdam
The 5 Stan-s - Follow in the footsteps of Genghis KhanLKLeanne
The Ultimate 5 Stans Tour: Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, and Turkmenistan – Discover Central Asia in 16 Days
JTJennifer
Best of Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan
NANikolas
5 Stans Discovery tour from Ashgabat to AlmatyJJan
Central Asia - 5 Stans
AOAntony
Central Asia Combined Silk Road Tour
KKatarzyna
Premium Uzbekistan
PLPriscilla
Central Asia Tour 16 Days, Start in Almaty
JWJanine
Uzbekistan 8 Day Cultural Tour (3 Star Hotel Option)
Uzbekistan cultural tour - 10 daysFelipe
Ancient Cities Tour to Uzbekistan - Private TourSushila
Uzbekistan Cultural Tour (Tashkent to Samarkand, Bukhara and Khiva) boutique hotels optionEddie
Charming Uzbekistan Tour - Private TourFatma
Along the Silk Road Tour Uzbekistan - Private TourAkbar
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 5 Stan-s - Follow in the footsteps of Genghis Khan
77 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“The history of the region, the architecture, the natural beauty of the landscape and the very friendly people helped create a memorable experience.”
Jeffrey, traveled in October
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
- US$2,803+$352 local payments
The Ultimate 5 Stans Tour: Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, and Turkmenistan – Discover Central Asia in 16 Days
11 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“Each country had its own charm — from the Silk Road cities of Uzbekistan to the epic mountain landscapes of Tajikistan and Kyrgyzstan.”
Kalina, traveled in April
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
- US$3,507
Trip to the Five Stans - Exploring the Wonders of Central Asia, 15 days
19 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“It was well organized and we covered a lot of ground in a short time. The hotels were very comfortable and for the most part in great locations.”
Tennille, traveled in May
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
The Five Stans of The Silk Road
16 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“Varied and interesting locations. Very much on the fo.”
Alanah, 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
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
20% Off- US$7,490
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
5% Off- US$9,120You save $478
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
5% Off- US$6,975
Central Asia 16 days Start in Bishkek
3 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“The itinerary was a good mix of things to do as well as quiet time on the bus travelling between destinations.”
Robyn, traveled in April
This 16-day expedition spans 4 countries from Kyrgyzstan's Ala Archa National Park to Uzbekistan's ancient cities. Cultural highlights include Mary's Ethnography Museum and Ashgabat's white marble monuments. Daily breakfast and local flights from Mary to Ashgabat enhance the journey.
Duration 16 days Destinations Kyrgyzstan, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Turkmenistan Age Range All Ages Welcome Operator Steppe Journeys From $4,090
5% Off- US$3,886You save $205
Best of Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan
17 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“An eye-opening and amazing trip across Central-Asia. A once-in-a-lifetime experience.”
Marja, traveled in October
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
5% Off- US$3,099
Private Tour The Ultimate 5 Stans Tour: Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, and Turkmenistan – Discover Central Asia in 16 Days
1 Review by TourRadar travelers“The journey through the 5 Stans was enlightening and filled with cultural gems. The beauty of Issyk-Kul Lake and the historical sites in Khiva made up for it.”
Margareth, traveled in April
Walk through Registan Square's three madrassahs in Samarkand, Shah-i-Zinda's intricately decorated mausoleums, and Khiva's Kunya-Ark Fortress within Itchan Kala. Contrast serene Issyk-Kul Lake's yurt camps with the desert setting of Turkmenistan's burning gas crater, while staying in guesthouses in Karakol and 3-4 star hotels throughout. See Tajikistan's United Museum to view the Buddha in Nirvana, walk through Bishkek's Osh Bazaar, and check out the Akhal-Teke horses in Ashgabat.
Duration 16 days Destinations Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan Age Range Ages 10+ Operator Adventure Bound LTD From
5% Off- US$4,164
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 Travelers253 tours
- Couples221 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 103 tours
- 74 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.
- 133 tours
- 174 tours
- 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.
- 234 tours
- 193 tours
- popular 244 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 228 tours
- 179 tours
- 92 tours
Contact our Central Asia travel experts
Melissa
Expert in Central Asia at TourRadar
Melissa 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 385+ Central Asia tours
- 752 verified reviews by TourRadar customers
- 24/7 customer support
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!