21 Day Five Stans Discovery Tour

Price based on tours starting:

• 11 September 2027
• 2 October 2027
• 25 March 2028

Extra charges apply for:

• 8 April 2028 ($300pp)
• 6 May 2028 ($400pp)
• 3 June 2028 ($500pp)
• 5 August 2028 ($800pp)
• 2 September 2028 ($800pp)
• 23 September 2028 ($500pp)
• 14 October 2028 ($200pp)

Travel Seasons for This Itinerary:  

Central Asia is a fascinating destination to visit throughout much of the year, offering dramatic landscapes, ancient Silk Road cities, mountain scenery and unique cultural experiences across Kyrgyzstan, Kazakhstan, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan and Turkmenistan. This itinerary has been carefully timed to travel during the region’s most comfortable and rewarding seasons.  

Spring (March – May)  

Spring is one of the best times to explore Central Asia. Temperatures are generally mild and comfortable, while deserts, valleys and mountain foothills come alive with lush greenery and colourful wildflowers. Historic Silk Road cities such as Samarkand, Bukhara and Khiva are particularly pleasant to explore, while the snow-capped peaks of the Tian Shan and Pamir Mountains provide a stunning backdrop.  

Summer (June – August)  

Summer brings long daylight hours and excellent conditions for exploring Central Asia’s mountain regions, alpine lakes and open landscapes. While lower-altitude cities and desert areas can experience warmer temperatures, higher elevations in Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan offer cooler conditions and spectacular scenery. Traditional yurt stays, mountain passes and remote landscapes are at their most accessible during this period.  

Autumn (September – November)  

Autumn is widely regarded as one of Central Asia’s premier travel seasons. Warm days, cooler evenings and generally stable weather create ideal sightseeing conditions. Vineyards, orchards and markets are filled with seasonal produce, while golden foliage adds colour to mountain valleys and historic cities. The comfortable temperatures make this an excellent time to explore both cultural and natural highlights.  

Winter (December – February)  

Winter transforms much of Central Asia with snow-covered mountains and crisp, clear days. While some high-altitude routes may be inaccessible and temperatures can be extremely cold, the season offers a unique perspective on the region’s landscapes and heritage cities. Winter departures are less common but can provide a quieter and more atmospheric travel experience.  

Please note: Weather patterns, temperatures and road conditions vary considerably across Central Asia due to the region’s diverse geography, ranging from deserts and plains to high mountain ranges. Seasonal conditions may vary from year to year and can impact sightseeing and travel times. Mountain and desert regions may experience more extreme temperatures than those indicated by the general season descriptions.

Price based on departing from Brisbane, Melbourne, Sydney

Extra charges apply for:

• Perth ($200pp)
• Adelaide ($200pp)

Pace 
This is a lively paced tour that showcases the highlights of Central Asia. Expect a mix of sightseeing days, scenic drives, high speed rail journey, with some early starts and long travel days between destinations. You’ll typically spend one to two nights in each location, allowing you to experience a variety of sightseeing opportunities.

Fitness 
A good level of fitness is required. You should be comfortable moving about unassisted, including boarding and disembarking vehicles, managing luggage at border crossing, walking for extended periods, walking on uneven terrain and climbing stairs at historical and scenic sites. Sightseeing often involves uneven ground, stone pathways, sand, steps and open viewing areas, with limited handrails in some locations. Activities are mostly outdoors and may take place in warmer temperatures, particularly in desert regions. While the pace is not rushed, travellers must have adequate stamina and be comfortable in warm, outdoor conditions to participate in the full program.

Group Experience 
You will meet like-minded travellers on tour and may even make lifelong friends. This holiday will proceed with a minimum group size of 16 passengers and a maximum group size of approximately 24 passengers. If the tour does not operate due to minimum numbers, you will be offered a credit or an alternative date.

Overnight Yurt Experiences 
A stay in a traditional yurt is one of the most memorable ways to experience the landscapes, culture and nomadic heritage of Central Asia. Throughout your journey you’ll enjoy two very different yurt experiences, each carefully selected to showcase a unique side of the region.

Please refer to the Accommodation section for more information.

Border Crossings 
This journey traverses five countries and includes multiple international border crossings. Border procedures can occasionally be lengthy and require patience, particularly at land borders. Travellers should be comfortable carrying their own luggage for short distances across border checkpoints, often over uneven surfaces and in outdoor conditions. Your dedicated Tour Leader travels with the group for the full duration of the tour, providing support and guidance throughout each border crossing and ensuring a smooth experience across all five countries.

Road Conditions & Travel Times 
Central Asia is a vast region, and some days involve extended travel by private coach and 4WD. Road conditions vary considerably, particularly in rural and desert areas, and some routes may be rough, dusty or slower than expected. While these journeys are an essential part of experiencing the region’s spectacular landscapes, flexibility and a sense of adventure are recommended.

Facilities in Remote Areas 
While hotels generally offer modern facilities, restroom standards can vary considerably throughout Central Asia. During some sightseeing and travel days, facilities may be basic and may include squat toilets, particularly at border crossings, roadside stops and remote locations.

Cultural Considerations 
Central Asia is generally welcoming and relaxed, however modest dress is recommended when visiting religious sites and rural communities. We suggest clothing that covers shoulders and knees and recommend women carry a scarf when visiting mosques or religious monuments.

Bishkek – Bon Hotel Bishek or similar 

Kadzhi-Say – Oimo Tash Yurt Camp or similar 

Karakol – Karagat Hotel or similar 

Almaty – Mildom Residence Hotel or similar 

Tashkent – Mir Luxe Plaza Hotel or similar 

Khujand – Anis Hotel 

Dushanbe – The Rumi Hotel & Residences or similar 

Samarkand – Wellfort Hotel or similar 

Bukhara – Mehrob Hotel or similar 

Khiva– Darvaza Hotel Khiva or similar 

Darwaza – Owadan Yurt Camp or similar 

Ashgabat – Sport Hotel Ashgabat or similar  

Accommodation Note: While you will not spend much time in the hotels, each has been carefully selected to suit the size and needs of the group. Our accommodation is generally of a quality 3- and 4-star local rating. Hotel names referenced are to be used as an indicative guide for the standard of accommodation to expect. Actual hotels may differ and a final hotel list will be provided on your final documentation sent no later than 30 days prior to departure.

Extend your stay: 
Pre-tour accommodation in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan starts from $250 AUD total per room per night.
Rate is subject to hotel availability at the time of booking. Pricing includes breakfast. Pre-tour accommodation can be booked up until 5 months prior to departure.

Post-tour accommodation or extending your stay in Turkmenistan is not available.

Overnight Yurt Experiences 
A stay in a traditional yurt is one of the most memorable ways to experience the landscapes, culture and nomadic heritage of Central Asia. Throughout your journey you’ll enjoy two very different yurt experiences, each carefully selected to showcase a unique side of the region.

Oimo Tash Yurt Camp, Kyrgyzstan 
Set against the spectacular backdrop of Issyk-Kul Lake and the surrounding mountains, Oimo Tash Yurt Camp combines traditional Kyrgyz hospitality with modern comforts. Guests stay in comfortable ensuite yurts, each featuring a private bathroom with shower and toilet. The camp also offers a welcoming restaurant yurt and relaxing outdoor spaces where you can soak up the tranquil scenery. This is an ideal introduction to yurt accommodation, blending cultural authenticity with the conveniences of a comfortable overnight stay.

Darvaza Yurt Camp, Turkmenistan
Located in the heart of the Karakum Desert, Darvaza Yurt Camp offers a truly unique opportunity to spend the night near Turkmenistan’s famous Darvaza Gas Crater, often known as the “Door to Hell”. Staying overnight allows you to experience the crater at its most spectacular, watching its fiery glow illuminate the desert after dark and enjoying the peaceful atmosphere of the desert at sunrise.

The traditional-style yurts are simply furnished with comfortable beds, bedding and blankets, providing an authentic desert experience. Our guests are guaranteed twin-share accommodation in the yurts, offering added comfort during this unique desert experience.  Shower and toilet facilities are shared and located within the camp. While facilities are more basic than those found in hotels, the unforgettable setting and rare opportunity to overnight in one of Central Asia’s most extraordinary locations make this a genuine highlight of the journey.

Passport Requirements   
For international travel, each customer must provide a clear copy of their passport photo page at the time of booking. It is the customer’s responsibility to ensure all booking names exactly match their passport and that their passport is valid for at least six months beyond the completion of their journey. As this journey visits five countries, travellers should ensure they have at least two blank passport pages available for each country visited to accommodate entry and exit stamps.

Any costs incurred as a result of incorrect names, invalid passport details or expired passports will be the responsibility of the customer.

Visa & Entry Requirements 
Australian passport holders currently enjoy visa-free entry to Kyrgyzstan, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan and Tajikistan for stays covered by this itinerary. Entry requirements may change without notice and it is the traveller’s responsibility to ensure they meet all visa and entry requirements prior to departure.

Travellers who are not travelling on an Australian passport must check with their respective consulate or visa agency to determine what their visa requirements are and what personal identification is required.

Visa requirements for each origin and destination country are the responsibility of the traveller to check and obtain (if required) with the local consulate or embassy. The traveller is liable for all visa application costs and fees due to the failure to obtain the required travel documents.

For the latest information on entry requirements, visa types, or any changes to the visa waiver program, please refer to Smartraveller or the Australian consulate websites for each country:
https://www.smartraveller.gov.au/destinations/asia/kyrgyz-republic  
https://www.smartraveller.gov.au/destinations/asia/kazakhstan 
https://www.smartraveller.gov.au/destinations/asia/uzbekistan 
https://www.smartraveller.gov.au/destinations/asia/tajikistan 
https://www.smartraveller.gov.au/destinations/asia/turkmenistan  

Turkmenistan  Visa & Entry Requirements

All travellers require a visa and a Letter of Invitation (LOI) to enter Turkmenistan in addition to a Visa on arrival. The required LOI will be arranged through our local supplier prior to departure. Once approved, the LOI will be provided directly to our local team and presented to immigration authorities when the group crosses into Turkmenistan via the land border from Uzbekistan.

We will require the documents listed below to apply for your Letter of Invitation. A request will be sent closer to your travel date and documents are due no later than 60 days prior to departure.

• 1 x coloured scan of passport bio page
• 1x coloured digital passport sized digital photo
• 1x completed information form per passenger

Travellers will obtain their Turkmenistan visa on arrival at the border crossing and will be required to pay the applicable visa and immigration fees directly.

For Australian passport holders, the current visa and border processing fees are approximately USD $80 per person, payable in cash upon arrival. Fees are subject to change without notice and final requirements will be advised prior to departure.

As of May 2023, Turkmenistan border authorities introduced additional health screening requirements, including temperature checks and a mandatory rapid antigen test on arrival. A fee of USD $42 per person is currently payable locally for this test. Please note that entry requirements and associated fees are subject to change and will be confirmed closer to departure.

Please be aware that our assistance is limited to facilitating the Letter of Invitation process. Travellers remain responsible for ensuring they meet all other entry requirements, including passport validity, any additional visa requirements and costs based on their nationality, and compliance with all customs and immigration regulations.

For the latest travel advice and entry requirements, please refer to Smartraveller or the relevant embassy consulate: https://www.smartraveller.gov.au/destinations/asia/turkmenistan

Single supplement from $2,900*pp is payable in addition to the twin share price for solo occupancy.

Exclusions 
Meals not stated, drinks with meals, travel insurance, optional tours, visas (if required), tipping, personal expenses, and anything not explicitly specified are at your own expense. Any costs associated with an interruption to your tour because of an airline schedule change or cancellation.

Payment 
A first deposit from $499 per person is required to secure your booking. A second deposit (partial payment) is due 8 months before departure – the amount to be advised at the time of booking. The final balance will be due 5 months before departure. Full payment is due at the time of booking for departures within 5 months.

Solo Occupancy 
Single supplement from $2,900*pp is payable in addition to the twin share price for solo occupancy.

Triple Share 
Triple share is not available.

Child Policy 
This tour is best enjoyed by adult travellers and is not suitable for children under 12 years of age. Children 12 years and above are subject to the adult price and must be accompanied by an adult over 18 years old.

Price 
Surcharges may apply for select travel periods and departure cities. Prices are correct at time of publication and are subject to availability, change, cancellation or withdrawal without notice. All prices are in Australian dollars per person twin share unless stated otherwise.

Change & Cancellation Fees 
Changes for any reason will incur a fee of $110 per person per change in addition to any travel service provider fees. Cancellation for any reason will incur a fee of $550 per person in addition to any travel service provider fees. Travel service provider fees for the tour and air components of the package are dependent on the date of the change or cancellation as follows:

• 0-29 days before departure 100% of the tour fee and 100% of the air fee will apply
• 30-60 days before departure 65% of the tour fee and 100% of the air fee will apply
• 61-99 days before departure 50% of the tour fee and 100% of the air fee will apply
• 100-180 days before departure 30% of the tour fee and 100% of the air fee will apply
• 181+ days before departure 10% of the tour fee and 100% of the air fee will apply

Airfares are generally non-refundable but any refundable ticket taxes will be returned. Full details of the change and cancellation fees is outlined in the Terms & Conditions available on our website.

Deviation 
Requests to deviate from the original advertised travel dates or routing, including early arrival or extended stays before the tour, are subject to airline availability and any applicable airfare and tax differences. No deviation fee applies. Packaged tour extensions may also be subject to applicable airfare and tax differences where relevant. Post-tour extension in Turkmenistan is not available.

Tipping 
A friendly reminder that tipping is not included in your package. Tipping is not compulsory on your trip, but it is part of the culture in Central Asia, and they can make a big difference to locals employed in the tourism industry. If you feel that your guide and driver have done an impeccable job, you can choose to give a gratuity, but this is entirely your decision.

If you are happy with the services provided, we recommend tipping $3-5 USD per day per person for your drivers and $5-7 USD per day per person for your Tour Leader.

It is also common practice to leave a tip of around 5% at restaurants, particularly in more tourist-friendly or higher-end establishments, as a gesture of appreciation for good service.

Fitness  
A moderate level of fitness is required. You are required to move about unassisted, including boarding and alighting vehicles and other forms of transportation, walking up and down flights of stairs, and navigating uneven terrain and footpaths. Porterage is not included and will be required to carry your own baggage to and from hotels. This trip is not suitable for travellers requiring wheelchair, mobility scooters or facilities for disabled guests. Other walking aids may be permitted if you are able move about unassisted at the required pace. For advice on whether this trip is suitable for you, you must disclose physical ailments at the time of booking.

Terrain & Environment  
This trip operates at altitudes over 800m. Whilst we travel slowly allowing plenty of time to acclimatize you may experience headaches, nausea, and lethargy. It is important to be aware of the affects of altitude on one’s tolerance especially on long driving days.

Almaty, Bishkek, Tashkent, Khiva, Bukhara, Samarkand and Ashgabat, sightseeing typically involves walking on paved streets, cobblestones, uneven pathways and steps, particularly within historic precincts and UNESCO-listed sites. Some walking may take place in areas with limited shade.

In more remote regions, including Issyk-Kul Lake, Charyn Canyon, Altyn Emel National Park, mountain valleys, yurt camps, the Karakum Desert and archaeological sites such as Merv and Old Nisa, terrain can be uneven and may include dirt tracks, rocky ground, loose gravel, sand and unsealed pathways. Travellers should be comfortable walking on a variety of surfaces and in varying weather conditions, including exposure to sun, wind and higher altitudes.

Health 
When selecting your tour, please review the itinerary carefully to ensure you are able to meet the physical requirements of the trip. All travellers must be able to participate safely and independently in the activities included. If, in the opinion of our local operators or tour leaders, a traveller is unable to continue without undue risk to themselves or others, we reserve the right to exclude that traveller from part or all of the tour without refund.

If you have a pre-existing medical condition, mobility limitation, dietary requirement, use a CPAP machine, or require the regular use or storage of medication, you must advise us at the time of booking.

Please be aware that accommodation standards and facilities vary throughout Central Asia. Access to refrigeration for medication storage cannot be guaranteed at all properties, particularly in remote areas and at the overnight desert camp in Darvaza, Turkmenistan. Travellers requiring temperature-controlled medication are responsible for ensuring they have appropriate storage solutions for the duration of the tour.

CPAP users should note that access to power may be limited or unavailable at certain accommodations and in remote locations. Travellers requiring a CPAP machine should travel with sufficient battery capacity and advise us at the time of booking so we can provide information about any known limitations.

For the safety and wellbeing of fellow travellers and staff, anyone who is unwell prior to departure should contact us to discuss their options before commencing travel.

Money 
Central Asia remains largely a cash-based region, particularly outside major cities. We recommend bringing sufficient cash to cover your personal expenses throughout the tour.

US Dollars (USD) are the preferred foreign currency and are generally the easiest to exchange. Please ensure all banknotes are in good condition and printed after 1996, as older, damaged, marked, or heavily worn notes may be refused by exchange providers. Larger denominations (USD 50 and USD 100 notes) often receive more favourable exchange rates, however bringing a selection of smaller denominations is also recommended.

ATM availability is limited and machines can be unreliable, even in larger cities. ATMs may not be available in smaller towns, rural areas, and remote regions. Credit card acceptance is also limited and is generally restricted to some hotels, restaurants, and larger shops.

Internet & Communications 
Internet access throughout Central Asia varies considerably. In Turkmenistan, internet access is heavily restricted and some websites, messaging services and social media platforms may be inaccessible. Travellers should not expect the same level of connectivity available in Australia.

Meals 
Breakfasts offered by the accommodation providers are typically buffet style, with limited vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and lactose-free options. For meals not included, you will be taken to places with options where possible or suggested dining options nearby.
Please notify us at the time of booking of any special dietary requirements or allergies. While we will endeavour to pass on any dietary requirements advised at the time of booking, we cannot guarantee that accommodation providers, restaurants, or other suppliers will be able to accommodate all requests. Alternative meals, specially prepared dishes, or substitute breakfast options may not be available.
You are required to reconfirm dietary requests with your Tour Guide whilst on tour.

Accommodation 
While you will not spend much time in the hotels, each has been carefully selected to suit the size and needs of the group. Our accommodation is generally of a quality 3- and 4-star local rating. Hotel names referenced are to be used as an indicative guide for the standard of accommodation to expect. Actual hotels may differ and a final hotel list will be provided on your final documentation sent no later than 30 days prior to departure.

Facilities in Remote Areas 
While hotels generally offer modern facilities, restroom standards can vary considerably throughout Central Asia. During some sightseeing and travel days, facilities may be basic and may include squat toilets, particularly at border crossings, roadside stops and remote locations.

International Flights
International flights are based on economy class travel with Emirates and/or Flydubai, operating as part of the Emirates network. The outbound flight may depart one to two days prior to Day 1 shown on the itinerary. The inbound flight may arrive one to two days after the final day shown on the itinerary.

Flights are typically booked approximately 8 to 10 months prior to departure and are based on a specific predetermined airfare allowance. Should there be a significant increase in airfares, fuel surcharges, taxes, or government fees at the time of booking, an airfare supplement may be imposed. Should this occur, our Flights Team will discuss the available options with you prior to ticketing. Guests wishing to upgrade their airfare or fly with an alternative carrier may do so for an additional cost, subject to availability.

Flights may not operate daily or directly to your destination and may require connections. Non-attendance of any flight sector will result in the automatic cancellation of all onward flights by the airline.

Internal Flights 
Please be advised that the internal flight between Almaty and Tashkent is included in the tour services provided. Flight tickets are provided by our supplier in destination during the tour and not part of the international ticket from Australia. The date for this service will match the day of the itinerary.

Private Coach and 4WD Travel 
This tour includes travel by private air-conditioned coach and 4WD vehicle. While most journeys are operated on sealed roads in comfortable touring conditions, some sections travelled by 4WD may be on unsealed roads and can be bumpy, dusty and uneven. Travel times may occasionally be longer than expected due to road, weather or border conditions, however these journeys provide access to some of Central Asia’s most remote landscapes and rewarding experiences.

Fuel 
In the unlikely event of a significant increase in fuel costs levied by third-party air, land and cruise transportation operators before travel, a fuel supplement may be passed on to the customer.

Baggage 
Each person is entitled to a strict maximum of one bag not exceeding 20kg on tour, superseding any other baggage allowance. Excess baggage is not permitted. You are strongly encouraged to pack lightly. An additional light day bag or backpack is permitted on the coach. Due to high-speed train baggage restrictions, you may wish to pack a separate light bag or backpack containing essentials – your luggage will also be stored in the designated luggage racks located on the train and not easily accessible once the train is moving. All porterage is not included, and you are required to carry your own bags. Luggage and personal effects are your own risk, and we hold no liability for lost or damaged belongings.

Itinerary 
The operating schedule and itinerary may be impacted without notice by adverse weather, seasonal factors, closures, local conditions, COVID-19 or other factors beyond our control including force majeure. If attractions are not available due to reasons beyond our control such as closures or adverse weather, alternatives will be provided where possible. The itinerary and its order, sightseeing and transportation may be adjusted as deemed appropriate by the operator for optimum safety, enjoyment and operation. Any reference to ‘optional’, ‘not included’ or ‘exclusions/excluded’ means at your own expense.

Breakaway 
Customers must remain with the tour group at all times and must not leave the tour unless written approval is provided before departure.

Documentation 
Final documentation will be emailed to you within two to four weeks from departure date.

Travel Insurance 
Travel insurance is not included and is strongly recommended. Ask our holiday experts for great coverage options.

Force Majeure 
Force majeure means any natural disaster, accident, fire, act of God, act of war, terrorism, legally binding judgment, injunction, action of a court or other relevant authority, emergency, unplanned repairs, maintenance, strike, industrial dispute, work ban, blockade or picketing, travel ban, pandemic, epidemic or outbreak of infectious disease, or other event beyond our reasonable direct or indirect control. In case of force majeure or other extraordinary event that prevents safe travel, the supplier reserves the right to adjust, postpone or cancel the trip.