KAZAKHSTAN, KYRGYZSTAN & UZBEKISTAN
What if one journey could take you from Kazakhstan’s dramatic natural wonders, across Kyrgyzstan’s majestic mountains and nomadic landscapes, to Uzbekistan’s magnificent Silk Road cities?
In 14 days, discover the turquoise waters of Kaindy Lake and Kolsai Lakes, cross the scenic Karkara Valley, explore Fairy Tale Canyon and Ala Archa National Park, and witness an eagle show celebrating ancient nomadic traditions.
Continue into Uzbekistan to uncover the legacy of the Ancient Silk Road, from Samarkand’s magnificent Registan Square to Bukhara’s historic lanes, ornate mosques and bustling bazaars.
TWO CONTRASTING EXPERIENCE
Kazakhstan & Kyrgyzstan’s dramatic natural landscapes to Uzbekistan’s magnificent Silk Road cities.
RICHER TASTE OF CENTRAL ASIA
Three countries, each with distinct cultures, traditions and histories.
All inclusive
SGD 5,200
per pax
(minimum 2 pax)
Itinerary Outline
Kazakhstan
Day 1: Almaty City Tour
Starting the tour in the city, we cannot miss out on the iconic Ascension Cathedral (also known as Zenkov Cathedral). A wooden Orthodox Cathedral that survived Soviet suppression and remains an important religious and architectural landmark today.
Day 2: Charyn Canyon National Park & Kolsai Lakes
With towering red rock formations, dramatic cliffs, the Charyn Canyon is often compared to the Grand Canyon due to its striking resemblance, though it is smaller in scale.
Kolsai Lakes are known for their breathtaking natural beauty, crystal-clear waters, and dramatic alpine landscapes. Often called the "Pearls of the Tien Shan," the three interconnected lakes are famous for their pristine, turquoise waters, set in a picturesque valley, making them a popular destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers in Kazakhstan.
Kolsai Lakes are known for their breathtaking natural beauty, crystal-clear waters, and dramatic alpine landscapes. Often called the "Pearls of the Tien Shan," the three interconnected lakes are famous for their pristine, turquoise waters, set in a picturesque valley, making them a popular destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers in Kazakhstan.
Day 3: Kaindy Lake & Cross-border to Kyrgyzstan
Nestled in Kazakhstan's Tian Shan Mountains, Kaindy Lake is famous for its submerged forest, with towering tree trunks rising from its crystal-clear waters—a result of a 1911 earthquake. One of the most popular attractions of Kazakhstan. We will transfer to a Russian van and walk a short distance to reach the lake.
On this day, we will cross over to Kyrgyzstan via Karkara Valley, promising panoramic mountain views along the way.
On this day, we will cross over to Kyrgyzstan via Karkara Valley, promising panoramic mountain views along the way.
Kyrgyzstan
Day 4: Karkara Valley, San Tash & Karakol City Tour
Karkara Valley is a vast open valley surrounded by the Tien Shan Mountains. Along the way, you will pass small local bee farms, where beekeepers produce natural Kyrgyz honey. The valley’s wide-open meadows, abundant wildflowers and mountain vegetation provide a rich source of nectar for bees, making the area well suited for honey production.
San Tash is a historic site where Timur’s army gathered stones here to mark the size of his forces. It translates to "counting stones".
Karakol City is not only rich in history but for its close proximity to the country’s popular ski resorts. City landmarks include Dungan Mosque, built without nails, and the picturesque wooden Holy Trinity Cathedral.
San Tash is a historic site where Timur’s army gathered stones here to mark the size of his forces. It translates to "counting stones".
Karakol City is not only rich in history but for its close proximity to the country’s popular ski resorts. City landmarks include Dungan Mosque, built without nails, and the picturesque wooden Holy Trinity Cathedral.
Day 5: Altyn Arashan OR Chunkurchak Gorge (Seasonal)
Altyn Arashan (Jun to Sep)
We will drive from Karakol to Altyn Arashan, located in the Tien Shan mountain range, the area is famous for its snow-capped peaks, lush meadows, and hot springs. A Russian van is required for an authentic off-road experience towards the valley.
Chunkurchak Gorge (Oct to May)
At Chunkurchak Gorge, we will take a cable car ride to the top of the mountains for panoramic views of the Tien Shan mountain range. Visit the Supara Ethno Complex, a museum of Kyrgyz history and activities. Also a wonderful place to savor traditional Kyrgyz dishes.
For a more adventurous day, optional to visit a sky bridge spanning 125m long and 700m high.
We will drive from Karakol to Altyn Arashan, located in the Tien Shan mountain range, the area is famous for its snow-capped peaks, lush meadows, and hot springs. A Russian van is required for an authentic off-road experience towards the valley.
Chunkurchak Gorge (Oct to May)
At Chunkurchak Gorge, we will take a cable car ride to the top of the mountains for panoramic views of the Tien Shan mountain range. Visit the Supara Ethno Complex, a museum of Kyrgyz history and activities. Also a wonderful place to savor traditional Kyrgyz dishes.
For a more adventurous day, optional to visit a sky bridge spanning 125m long and 700m high.
Day 6: Jety Oguz, Barskoon Waterfalls & Fairytale Canyon
Jety Oguz, or the "Seven Bulls," is a stunning valley famous for its dramatic red sandstone cliffs, resembling seven bulls and a "Broken Heart" formation. This iconic natural wonder is steeped in local legends, adding a mystical allure.
Barskoon, on the other hand, is renowned for its breathtaking waterfalls and serene natural beauty. It's a perfect spot for hiking, picnics, and photography.
Continue our drive along the Issyk Kul, we will visit Fairytale Canyon, or Skazka Canyon, is a mesmerising destination known for its vivid red, orange, and yellow hues rock formations. Easy to explore, the canyon offers a short walk with breathtaking views of lake in the distance.
Barskoon, on the other hand, is renowned for its breathtaking waterfalls and serene natural beauty. It's a perfect spot for hiking, picnics, and photography.
Continue our drive along the Issyk Kul, we will visit Fairytale Canyon, or Skazka Canyon, is a mesmerising destination known for its vivid red, orange, and yellow hues rock formations. Easy to explore, the canyon offers a short walk with breathtaking views of lake in the distance.
Day 7: Issyk Kul, Eagle Show & Burana Tower
Driving along Issyk Kul, a vast saline lake, never freezes despite alpine surroundings, offering stunning views and rich biodiversity.
We will arrive in Bokonbaevo where you can experience the ancient art of eagle hunting by skilled hunters.
Last stop of the day at Burana Tower, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this ancient minaret, dating back to the 11th century, offers a glimpse into the rich Silk Road history of Kyrgyzstan.
We will arrive in Bokonbaevo where you can experience the ancient art of eagle hunting by skilled hunters.
Last stop of the day at Burana Tower, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this ancient minaret, dating back to the 11th century, offers a glimpse into the rich Silk Road history of Kyrgyzstan.
Day 8: Ala Archa National Park & Fresh Trout
Nestled in the majestic Tian Shan mountains, Ala Archa National Park is a must-visit destination in Kyrgyzstan. You can choose to leisurely walk along picturesque trails or challenge yourself with a short hike toward the Ak-Sai waterfall.
We will enjoy our lunch at a restaurant specialises in freshly caught trout from the region.
We will enjoy our lunch at a restaurant specialises in freshly caught trout from the region.
Day 9: Bishkek City Tour & Flight to Uzbekistan
We will start Bishkek city tour including a visit to Osh Bazaar, offering an authentic local experience with fresh produce, spices, textiles, and souvenirs. It's a vibrant cultural hub, perfect for tasting Kyrgyz cuisine, exploring handicrafts, and experiencing the local way of life. We will also visit Ala-Too Square and State Historical Museum
Take a flight to Tashkent where your local guide will greet you and transfer to hotel.
Take a flight to Tashkent where your local guide will greet you and transfer to hotel.
Uzbekistan
Day 10: Train to Bukhara & City Tour (Citadel Ark, Bolo-Hauz Mosque, Nodir Divan Begi)
We will transfer from Tashkent to Bukhara by train in the morning.
First stop in Bukahara is Citadel Ark, the oldest fortress in the city and used as a palace by multiple Bukhara Empire rulers. Followed by Samanid Mausoleum, known for its architecture from the ninth and tenth centuries. Then to Bolo-Hauz Mosque, also referred to as the mosque of forty columns.
We will drop then by the retail domes, the perfect place to do souvenir shopping before our last stop to Nodir Divan Begi, one of Bukhara's most well-known madrasahs.
First stop in Bukahara is Citadel Ark, the oldest fortress in the city and used as a palace by multiple Bukhara Empire rulers. Followed by Samanid Mausoleum, known for its architecture from the ninth and tenth centuries. Then to Bolo-Hauz Mosque, also referred to as the mosque of forty columns.
We will drop then by the retail domes, the perfect place to do souvenir shopping before our last stop to Nodir Divan Begi, one of Bukhara's most well-known madrasahs.
Day 11: Bahauddin Naqshbandi Complex & Train to Samarkand
Short drive out of Bukhara, we will visit Bahauddin Naqshbandi Complex, dedicated to the memory of a well-known Sufi leader and philosopher.
Sitorai Mohi Hosa Complex, a palace of several architectural styles combined. In memory of his young bride who passed away, Emir gave the palace the name "Star-like and moon-like palace."
End the day at Sumiton Village, known as the Town of the Dead, where the Chor Bakr Memorial Complex was built from the start of the Samanid era.
Sitorai Mohi Hosa Complex, a palace of several architectural styles combined. In memory of his young bride who passed away, Emir gave the palace the name "Star-like and moon-like palace."
End the day at Sumiton Village, known as the Town of the Dead, where the Chor Bakr Memorial Complex was built from the start of the Samanid era.
Day 12: Samarkand City Tour (Registan Square, Shah-i-Zinda & Bibi Khanum Mosque)
A day packed with the city's most notable sights, including the biggest attraction in Samarkand, Registan Square which includes three remarkable Madrasahs that date back to the 15th and 17th centuries.
We will also visit Shah-i-Zinda, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is home to a sizable collection of mausoleums that date from the eleventh to the fifteenth century and the beautiful Bibi Khanum Mosque constructed in remembrance of beloved Tamerlane's wife.
We will also visit Shah-i-Zinda, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is home to a sizable collection of mausoleums that date from the eleventh to the fifteenth century and the beautiful Bibi Khanum Mosque constructed in remembrance of beloved Tamerlane's wife.
Day 13: Ulugbek Observatory, Siab Bazaar & Train to Tashkent
Ulughbek, one of the most well-known scientists and kings of Samarkand. We will start off the day at Ulughbek Observatory, one of the great archaeological finds of the 20th century.
We will then visit Siab Bazaar, where we can easily buy locally created sweets and traditional Uzbek handicrafts and drop by a unique handmade carpet factory where over 400 women sew carpets.
In the afternoon, we will head to Tashkent by train.
We will then visit Siab Bazaar, where we can easily buy locally created sweets and traditional Uzbek handicrafts and drop by a unique handmade carpet factory where over 400 women sew carpets.
In the afternoon, we will head to Tashkent by train.
Day 14: Tashkent City Tour (Independence Square, Tashkent Metro, Chorsu Bazaar)
We will start our city tour at the Independence Square, built as a tribute to the defeat of fascism during World War II. Then take a ride on the Tashkent metro first built in 1977, famous for its unique soviet architecture.
We will visit the historic district of the city, which includes Chorsu Bazaar, Kukaldash Madrasah and Hast Imam Complex, which is made up of several mosques, mausoleums and madrasahs housing the oldest Quran copy in the world.
We will visit the historic district of the city, which includes Chorsu Bazaar, Kukaldash Madrasah and Hast Imam Complex, which is made up of several mosques, mausoleums and madrasahs housing the oldest Quran copy in the world.
Optional Add-ons
- Song Kul +2D2N tour (only available Jun to Sep) Including horse ride +$500 per pax
- Kel Suu +2D2N tour (only available Jun to Sep) Including border permit, horse & boat ride +$700 per pax
- Khiva City +2D2N tour. Including a domestic flight to Urgench +$800 per pax
- Additional horse riding or van rental pay guide in cash
- Single-pax service supplement +$200 per day
Prices Include
- English speaking guide
- ALL transportation during tour
- ALL accommodation (Twin, Triple)
- ALL meals (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
- ALL entrance fees listed on itinerary
- Eagle hunting show
- Economy flight from Bishkek to Tashkent
- Domestic trains within Uzbekistan
Prices Exclude
- International Flights (Arrival in Almaty/Depart from Tashkent)
- Personal expenses
- Optional activities (Horse riding, van rental)
- Personal insurance
- Single supplement
Central Asia Travel FAQ
Is Central Asia worth visiting?
Absolutely. Central Asia is worth visiting if you enjoy discovering places that offer a different perspective from more familiar travel destinations.
Central Asia does require more planning than some conventional holiday destinations, particularly when combining several countries. However, for travellers who value meaningful cultural experiences, dramatic landscapes and a sense of discovery, the effort can be well worthwhile.
Find out how we can make your holiday across the Stans an easy one. Start a chat with us!
Central Asia does require more planning than some conventional holiday destinations, particularly when combining several countries. However, for travellers who value meaningful cultural experiences, dramatic landscapes and a sense of discovery, the effort can be well worthwhile.
Find out how we can make your holiday across the Stans an easy one. Start a chat with us!
Why visit Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan and Uzbekistan together?
With international flights available to major gateways such as Almaty, Bishkek and Tashkent, it is easy to arrange your flights to reach this region via one of these three countries.
Furthermore, what makes this combination special is the contrast between the countries. Within one trip, you can move from vast open landscapes and mountain scenery to traditional village life and some of the most remarkable historic cities in the region.
Request for our three-stans full itinerary
Furthermore, what makes this combination special is the contrast between the countries. Within one trip, you can move from vast open landscapes and mountain scenery to traditional village life and some of the most remarkable historic cities in the region.
Request for our three-stans full itinerary
Should I visit all three Stans or focus on two countries?
It depends on how much time you have and what you want from your trip.
Visiting two countries is a good choice if you have around 7–10 days, prefer a slower pace or want to explore a particular landscape or cultural experience in greater depth. For example, Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan work well together for travellers drawn to nature, mountain scenery and outdoor activities.
If you have approximately 14 days or more, combining Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan and Uzbekistan gives you a broader perspective of Central Asia. You can experience mountain landscapes and nomadic traditions alongside the historic cities and architectural heritage of the Silk Road.
We can arrange according to your schedule. Let us know how many days you have. Chat with us to discuss further!
Visiting two countries is a good choice if you have around 7–10 days, prefer a slower pace or want to explore a particular landscape or cultural experience in greater depth. For example, Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan work well together for travellers drawn to nature, mountain scenery and outdoor activities.
If you have approximately 14 days or more, combining Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan and Uzbekistan gives you a broader perspective of Central Asia. You can experience mountain landscapes and nomadic traditions alongside the historic cities and architectural heritage of the Silk Road.
We can arrange according to your schedule. Let us know how many days you have. Chat with us to discuss further!
How many days do you need to visit Central Asia?
We recommend allowing at least 9–14 days to experience more than one country in Central Asia, with around two to three weeks offering greater flexibility for a trip covering Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan and Uzbekistan.
As a general guide:
As a general guide:
- 7 days: Focus on one country.
- 9 days: Experience two countries highlights itinerary.
- >14 days: Allow time for a more balanced three-country trip combining natural landscapes, local culture and historic cities. We can arrange according to your schedule. Let us know how many days you have. Chat with us to discuss further!
Which country should I visit first in Central Asia?
It is more efficient to plan the route around your international arrival and departure flights rather than treating each country as a separate trip. For example, you could arrive in Almaty and finish in Tashkent or vice versa depending on your flight schedule.
A well-designed route helps reduce unnecessary backtracking and makes better use of your time in the region.
Start a chat to discuss further!
A well-designed route helps reduce unnecessary backtracking and makes better use of your time in the region.
Start a chat to discuss further!
When is the best time to visit Central Asia?
The best time to visit Central Asia is generally spring through autumn, although the ideal season depends on the countries, destinations and activities included in your itinerary.
Start a chat to discuss further!
- Spring (April–May): A good period for cultural sightseeing, city exploration and enjoying landscapes as the weather warms. Mountain conditions can still be unpredictable.
- Summer (June–August): Particularly suitable for mountain scenery, alpine lakes and outdoor activities in Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan. Uzbekistan can be extremely hot during this period, especially in July and August.
- Autumn (September–October): Often an excellent time to combine all three countries, with comfortable conditions for city sightseeing and many outdoor excursions.
- Winter (November–March): Better suited to travellers interested in snow-covered scenery, winter experiences and skiing, although mountain routes and some activities may be restricted by weather.
Start a chat to discuss further!
Do I need separate visas for Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan and Uzbekistan?
Many nationalities (including the US, EU countries, UK, Australia, Singapore, Malaysia and more) can enter Kazakhstan visa-free for 30 to 90 days. Others may need to apply online for an e-visa. Always check with the official embassy website or a reliable visa checker.
Will I have internet access throughout Central Asia?
Internet access is generally available in Central Asia's major cities, hotels and many tourist areas, but connectivity can be less reliable in rural villages, mountain valleys and remote natural destinations.
For certain mountain destinations and remote overnight stays, you should be prepared for limited or no connectivity. Let family members know when you expect to be out of coverage, especially if your itinerary includes isolated areas.
For certain mountain destinations and remote overnight stays, you should be prepared for limited or no connectivity. Let family members know when you expect to be out of coverage, especially if your itinerary includes isolated areas.
What kind of toilets can I expect in Central Asia?
In the cities, most will have Western-style toilets.
The accommodation we choose for all our tour will be equipped with modern toilet bowl, toilet paper, proper sink for handwashing and hot showers! Except when you're in the mountains where there are limited amenities (example, Song Kul & Altyn Arashan)!
We can arrange the accommodation standards that fits your needs. Chat with us to find out more.
The accommodation we choose for all our tour will be equipped with modern toilet bowl, toilet paper, proper sink for handwashing and hot showers! Except when you're in the mountains where there are limited amenities (example, Song Kul & Altyn Arashan)!
We can arrange the accommodation standards that fits your needs. Chat with us to find out more.
Is Central Asia safe for tourists?
Central Asia can be a rewarding destination for tourists, but, as with any international trip, travellers should take sensible precautions and stay informed about local conditions.
Travellers should check current travel advisories before departure, as safety conditions and entry requirements can change. In remote areas, access to medical facilities and emergency assistance may be more limited than in major cities.
For a multi-country trip, reliable transport arrangements and clear communication with local guides or operators can help make the journey more manageable.
Travellers should check current travel advisories before departure, as safety conditions and entry requirements can change. In remote areas, access to medical facilities and emergency assistance may be more limited than in major cities.
For a multi-country trip, reliable transport arrangements and clear communication with local guides or operators can help make the journey more manageable.
Is Central Asia suitable for families, couples and older travellers?
Yes. Central Asia can suit families, couples and older travellers, as long as the itinerary is designed around their preferences, mobility and desired pace.
For families and travellers who value comfort, it is worth paying attention to driving times, accommodation standards, private bathrooms, meal arrangements and opportunities to rest between longer journeys.
A private tour can offer greater flexibility over the pace and activities, making it easier to accommodate different interests within the same travelling party. The important thing is to choose an itinerary that balances sightseeing with enough time to enjoy each destination comfortably.
Chat with us to find out more.
For families and travellers who value comfort, it is worth paying attention to driving times, accommodation standards, private bathrooms, meal arrangements and opportunities to rest between longer journeys.
A private tour can offer greater flexibility over the pace and activities, making it easier to accommodate different interests within the same travelling party. The important thing is to choose an itinerary that balances sightseeing with enough time to enjoy each destination comfortably.
Chat with us to find out more.
What currency should I bring for a three-Stan trip?
We recommend to bring along cash in USD or EUR to exchange for local currencies.
Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan and Uzbekistan each use their own national currency:
Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan and Uzbekistan each use their own national currency:
- Kazakhstan: Kazakhstani tenge (KZT)
- Kyrgyzstan: Kyrgyzstani som (KGS)
- Uzbekistan: Uzbekistani sum (UZS) Card payments and ATM availability vary by location, with larger cities generally offering more options than remote areas. Carrying a suitable amount of cash and having a backup payment method can make your journey easier.
Chat with us to find out more.
What languages are spoken in Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan and Uzbekistan?
Kazakh is the state language of Kazakhstan, Kyrgyz is the state language of Kyrgyzstan, and Uzbek is the state language of Uzbekistan. Russian is also widely used in various settings across the region, although language use differs by country, city and community.
This can make communication more challenging when arranging transport, asking for directions, visiting local establishments or travelling through less-visited areas.
Having access to English-speaking guides or a reliable local tour operator can make a meaningful difference, especially when coordinating transport and navigating unfamiliar destinations.
Chat with us to find out more.
This can make communication more challenging when arranging transport, asking for directions, visiting local establishments or travelling through less-visited areas.
Having access to English-speaking guides or a reliable local tour operator can make a meaningful difference, especially when coordinating transport and navigating unfamiliar destinations.
Chat with us to find out more.
Can solo traveller sign up for this tour?
As we only run private tours, pricing is structured for a minimum of two guests. Solo travellers may also join with an additional fee of $200 per day to ensure the same level of comfort and service. Start a chat with us to find out more.
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