Kazakhstan · Day 2
From Old Almaty to Medeu and Shymbulak
Walk through Panfilov Park, step inside the wooden Ascension Cathedral and browse Green Bazaar before continuing into the foothills for the route’s first dramatic change of scenery.
Five Stans Tour: 14 Days from Almaty to Tashkent
14 days / 13 nightsAlmaty → Tashkent2–12 guests
Discover Silk Road cities, the Seven Lakes and Darvaza after dark in two weeks. CAJ.UZ arranges your journey through Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan, Tajikistan and Turkmenistan, from your arrival in Almaty to your departure from Tashkent.
From US$4,890 per person in 2026 or US$5,190 in 2027 — Standard, sharing a double or twin room, for bookings of two or more guests. Includes 13 nights, four flights and two train journeys along the route; your flights to and from the tour are extra.
Your tour in 30 seconds
- Arrival and departure: Fly into Almaty (ALA) and out of Tashkent (TAS). Arrival and departure transfers are included.
- Your date or a listed departure: Choose a listed departure or request another date for 2–12 guests. Availability is checked before written confirmation.
- Four regional flights and two trains: Regional economy flights and Uzbekistan train journeys are included as listed.
- Hotels, guesthouse and desert camp: 11 city-hotel nights, one Tajik guesthouse and one Darvaza camp night.
- Guide languages: English-language sightseeing is included. Other languages and any supplement are checked on request.
- Pace: An active route with long travel days and four land-border crossings.
Five Stans Tour highlights
Kyrgyzstan · Day 4
Burana Tower and a family lunch in Don-Aryk
Pair an open-air Silk Road landmark with an included lunch hosted by a local family—a personal encounter between the route’s monumental city visits.
Uzbekistan · Days 8–9
Samarkand and Bukhara by rail
Travel from Registan and Shah-i-Zinda to Po-i-Kalyan and Bukhara’s trading domes by included train, linking two distinct chapters of the Silk Road.
Turkmenistan · Days 10–11
Merv, white-marble Ashgabat and Darvaza after dark
Cross three radically different settings in two days, then watch the desert crater glow after sunset before sleeping at the arranged camp.
Day 6: Seven Lakes with a mountain overnight stay
After exploring the accessible lakes, stay in a family guesthouse. The return to Samarkand is planned for the following day, leaving the evening free of a drive back across the border.
Day 6 itineraryThe route from a local operator’s perspective
Samarkand after the return from the mountains
The main Samarkand sightseeing is planned for day 8, after the return from Tajikistan. It does not have to fit into the remaining hours of a border-crossing day.
Merv before the flight to Ashgabat
After Merv, the planned flight from Mary replaces another long drive. From Ashgabat, the route continues north through Darvaza.
The final night is in Tashkent
The flight from Urgench is planned for day 13, while the tour ends on day 14. The domestic flight and your journey home take place on separate days.
Five-country route from Almaty to Tashkent
The map shows overnight stops, road sections, flights and trains. The stages below follow the order of travel.
5 countriesKazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan
14 days13 nights and four land-border crossings
Almaty → Tashkentairport arrival and departure transfers
Map lines are simplified; the itinerary gives the detailed order of visits.
Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan
Days 1–4
Almaty → Bishkek → Burana
1
City walks, Medeu and Shymbulak, followed by the flight to Bishkek and a visit to Burana.
Uzbekistan and Tajikistan
Days 4–7
Tashkent → Samarkand → Seven Lakes
2
Flight to Tashkent, train to Samarkand, Jartepa crossing, mountain overnight stay, Panjakent and Sarazm.
Uzbekistan
Days 7–10
Samarkand → Bukhara → Alat
3
Return through Jartepa, sightseeing in Samarkand, the train to Bukhara and a full day in the city.
Turkmenistan
Days 10–12
Merv → Ashgabat → Darvaza → Kunya-Urgench
4
Entry through Farap, Merv, the Mary–Ashgabat flight, a desert overnight stay and the road to Dashoguz.
Uzbekistan
Days 12–14
Shavat → Khiva → Urgench → Tashkent
5
Return to Uzbekistan, Ichan-Kala, the flight from Urgench and the final night in Tashkent.
14-day Five Stans Tour itinerary
All times are local planning estimates. Slots include short walks and stops; visits are adjusted to opening hours. On flight days, follow your ticket; after a border crossing, follow the actual clearance time. Final meeting and transport details are confirmed in your travel documents.
Day 1 — Arrive in Almaty, Kazakhstan
With: Airport representative and driver; no sightseeing guide
Travel: 20–30 km · usually 30–60 min
Walking: Minimal
| Time | Program | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| On arrival | Complete passport control, collect your baggage and pass customs at Almaty International Airport. | Depends on clearance |
| After entry formalities | Meet the CAJ.UZ representative holding a CAJ.UZ sign with the lead traveler's name, then transfer approximately 20–30 km to the hotel. | ≈ 30–60 min |
| After hotel check-in | Check in according to hotel policy, receive the next-day meeting time and rest after the international journey. | Flexible |
| At leisure | Take an independent orientation walk near the hotel or in central Almaty; no formal sightseeing is scheduled today. | Flexible |
Day 2 — Almaty, Medeu and Shymbulak
With: English-speaking Almaty guide and driver
Travel: 60–90 km · about 2–3 hrs in the vehicle
Walking: About 3–5 hrs, with steps and elevation
| Time | Program | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| 09:00–10:00 | Meet the guide and walk through Panfilov Park to the colorful wooden Ascension Cathedral. | ≈ 1 hr |
| 10:15–11:00 | Explore Green Bazaar for dried fruit, spices and everyday Almaty life. | ≈ 45 min |
| 11:15–12:15 | Continue through central Almaty and Republic Square, with stops adjusted to traffic and opening hours. | ≈ 1 hr |
| 12:15–13:15 | Break at a local restaurant; lunch is at your own expense. | ≈ 1 hr |
| 13:15–14:45 | Drive into the foothills to Medeu and the Shymbulak area. The day's total local movement is approximately 60–90 km. | ≈ 1 hr 30 min |
| 14:45–16:30 | When operating, ride the included cable-car system for mountain views before returning to Almaty; weather or maintenance closures may change this stop. | ≈ 1 hr 45 min |
| 16:30–18:00 | Return from the mountains to your Almaty hotel. Evening at leisure. | ≈ 1 hr 30 min |
Cable-car operation is weather and maintenance dependent.
Day 3 — Fly from Almaty to Bishkek; Bishkek city tour
With: Drivers in both cities and an English-speaking Bishkek guide
Travel: 50–70 km by road · about 70–120 min, plus the flight
Walking: About 2–3 hrs; Bishkek sightseeing is adjusted to the actual arrival time
| Time | Program | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| 4–3 hours before departure | Check out and transfer approximately 20–30 km to Almaty Airport. | ≈ 30–60 min |
| 3 hours before departure | Check-in, bag drop and security. Follow the airline’s reporting time and your issued ticket. | ≈ 3 hr |
| At the ticketed time | Economy flight from Almaty to Bishkek. Departure, arrival and baggage allowance are stated on your ticket. | Per ticket |
| On arrival | Collect your baggage and complete any entry formalities before meeting the local team. | ≈ 45–90 min |
| After entry formalities | Meet the Kyrgyzstan team and transfer approximately 30–40 km from Manas Airport to the city. | ≈ 40–60 min |
| After the city transfer | Lunch break at your own expense; a packed meal can be arranged ahead for a long travel day. | ≈ 1 hr |
| After lunch | Explore Ala-Too Square, the Manas Monument, Oak Park and central Soviet-era architecture as flight timing permits. | ≈ 2 hr 30 min |
Day 4 — Burana Tower, Don-Aryk family lunch and flight to Tashkent
With: Kyrgyz guide and driver; Tashkent driver after the flight
Travel: 160–190 km · about 3–4.5 hrs by road, including the Manas Airport approach; plus the flight and Tashkent hotel transfer
Walking: About 2–3 hrs of walking and standing
| Time | Program | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| 07:30–09:30 | Drive approximately 80–90 km from Bishkek toward Burana Tower. | ≈ 2 hr |
| 09:30–10:30 | Visit Burana Tower, the open-air balbal collection and the remains of medieval Balasagun. | ≈ 1 hr |
| 10:30–11:00 | Short drive from Burana to your host family in the Don-Aryk area. | ≈ 30 min |
| 11:00–12:30 | Continue to the Don-Aryk area for a hosted family lunch and an introduction to village life. | ≈ 1 hr 30 min |
| 12:30–13:00 | Spend time with your hosts, learn about daily life in the area and take a short village walk before returning toward the airport. | ≈ 30 min |
| 13:00–15:30 | Drive to Manas Airport, approximately 80–100 km. Airport check-in time is allowed separately. | ≈ 2 hr 30 min |
| 3 hours before departure | Check-in, bag drop and security. Follow the airline’s reporting time and your issued ticket. | ≈ 3 hr |
| At the ticketed time | Economy flight from Bishkek to Tashkent, followed by a driver meet-and-greet and hotel transfer. | Per ticket |
Please note: The full program needs a suitable evening Bishkek–Tashkent flight. We check the ticket first and agree any sightseeing changes before confirmation.
Day 5 — Tashkent city tour; train to Samarkand
With: English-speaking Tashkent guide and driver; Samarkand driver after the train
Travel: About 300 km by rail · usually 2–3 hrs, plus city transfers
Walking: About 4–6 hrs
| Time | Program | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| 09:00–10:15 | Visit the Khast-Imam Complex, including its courtyards and historic Islamic architecture. | ≈ 1 hr 15 min |
| 10:30–11:30 | Walk through Chorsu Bazaar and its surrounding old-city trading streets. | ≈ 1 hr |
| 11:45–12:30 | Continue to Amir Timur Square and the broad avenues of central Tashkent. | ≈ 45 min |
| 12:30–13:30 | Lunch break at your own expense; a packed meal can be arranged ahead for a long travel day. | ≈ 1 hr |
| 13:45–15:15 | Visit Independence Square; add the Museum of Applied Arts when opening hours and the ticketed train time allow. | ≈ 1 hr 30 min |
| 90 minutes before the train | Station transfer, document checks and boarding. Hotel departure is planned around your confirmed train. | ≈ 1 hr 30 min |
| At the ticketed train time | Travel approximately 300 km by Afrosiyob or another ticketed train to Samarkand. | ≈ 2–3 hr |
| After train arrival | Meet the driver at Samarkand station and transfer to the hotel. | ≈ 20–40 min |
Day 6 — Uzbekistan–Tajikistan border and Seven Lakes (Haft Kul)
With: Uzbekistan driver to the border; Tajik guide and driver after entry
Travel: 42–60 km / 1–1.5 hrs to the border, then about 2.5–4.5 hrs on Tajik and mountain roads; border processing is additional
Walking: About 1.5–3 hrs on uneven ground
| Time | Program | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| 07:00–08:30 | Drive approximately 42–60 km from Samarkand to Jartepa checkpoint. | ≈ 1 hr 30 min |
| From 08:30, subject to clearance | Complete Uzbekistan exit, move through the controlled crossing with your own luggage and complete Tajikistan entry. | Depends on clearance |
| After border clearance | Meet the Tajik team and continue through the Sarazm / Penjikent corridor toward the Fann Mountains. | ≈ 1–2 hr |
| 12:00–13:00 | Lunch break at your own expense; a packed meal can be arranged ahead for a long travel day. | ≈ 1 hr |
| 13:00–16:00 | Follow the mountain road into the Seven Lakes valley, stopping at the lower and middle lakes for short walks and photographs. | ≈ 3 hr |
| 16:00–17:30 | If road conditions and daylight allow, continue to Marguzor for lakeside stops, then return to the guesthouse in Nofin or Padrud. | ≈ 1 hr 30 min |
| 18:00–20:00 | Check in at the Nofin or Padrud guesthouse and have a traditional local dinner. | ≈ 2 hr |
Please note: Times after the border move with actual clearance. Access to the upper lakes depends on road conditions, weather and daylight; the overnight stay is at the agreed guesthouse.
Day 7 — Penjikent, Sarazm and return to Samarkand
With: Tajik guide and driver to the border; Uzbekistan driver after entry
Travel: 122–170 km · about 3.5–6.5 hrs, excluding border formalities
Walking: About 2–3 hrs on uneven ground
| Time | Program | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| 07:00–10:00 | Check out and drive approximately 60–80 km from the Seven Lakes area to Penjikent. | ≈ 3 hr |
| 10:15–11:00 | Visit the Rudaki Museum in Penjikent for an introduction to Sogdian history. | ≈ 45 min |
| 11:15–12:00 | Explore the ruins of Ancient Penjikent when access permits. | ≈ 45 min |
| 12:15–13:45 | Walk through the local bazaar and take a lunch break at your own expense. | ≈ 1 hr 30 min |
| 14:00–15:15 | Drive approximately 20–30 km to Sarazm, visit the archaeological site when open and continue to the nearby checkpoint. | ≈ 1 hr 15 min |
| Around 15:30, subject to clearance | Complete Tajikistan exit and Uzbekistan entry while keeping your luggage with you. | Depends on clearance |
| After border clearance | Meet the Uzbekistan driver and continue approximately 42–60 km to the Samarkand hotel. | ≈ 60–90 min |
Please note: We plan an early start from the lakes. If the mountain road is slow, visits are rearranged to preserve time for the border and return to Samarkand.
Day 8 — Samarkand monuments; train to Bukhara
With: English-speaking Samarkand guide and driver; Bukhara driver after the train
Travel: About 270 km by rail · usually 1.5–3 hrs, plus city transfers
Walking: About 4–5 hrs
| Time | Program | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| 08:30–10:00 | Explore Registan Square and the decorated interiors and courtyards open on the day. | ≈ 1 hr 30 min |
| 10:15–11:00 | Visit Gur-Emir, the mausoleum associated with Amir Timur and the Timurid dynasty. | ≈ 45 min |
| 11:15–12:15 | Continue to Bibi-Khanym Mosque and, when time permits, the neighboring Siab Bazaar. | ≈ 1 hr |
| 12:15–13:15 | Pause for lunch at your own expense before continuing the city tour. | ≈ 1 hr |
| 13:30–15:00 | Walk through the stepped avenue of mausoleums at Shah-i-Zinda. | ≈ 1 hr 30 min |
| 90 minutes before the train | Station transfer, document checks and boarding. Hotel departure is planned around your confirmed train. | ≈ 1 hr 30 min |
| At the ticketed train time | Economy train journey from Samarkand to Bukhara. Your ticket confirms the train and departure time. | ≈ 90–180 min |
| After train arrival | Meet the driver at Bukhara station and transfer to your city hotel. | ≈ 30–60 min |
Shah-i-Zinda includes many steps and uneven paving.
Day 9 — Bukhara Old City walking tour
With: English-speaking Bukhara guide; most sightseeing is on foot
Travel: No long road transfer
Walking: About 6–8 km on stone and uneven paving
| Time | Program | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| 09:00–10:15 | Begin at the Samanid Mausoleum and Chashma-Ayub, two contrasting examples of Bukhara's sacred architecture. | ≈ 1 hr 15 min |
| 10:30–12:15 | Continue to Bolo-Hauz Mosque and the Ark Fortress, former seat of the emirs. | ≈ 1 hr 45 min |
| 12:15–13:15 | Pause for lunch at your own expense before the walking section continues. | ≈ 1 hr |
| 13:15–14:30 | Explore Po-i-Kalyan: the Kalyan Minaret, mosque and Mir-i-Arab exterior. | ≈ 1 hr 15 min |
| 14:30–15:45 | Walk through the trading domes and view Ulugbek and Abdulaziz Khan madrasas. | ≈ 1 hr 15 min |
| 16:00–17:30 | Finish at Magoki-Attori, Kukeldash Madrasah and Lyabi-Hauz; Chor-Minor is added when timing allows. | ≈ 1 hr 30 min |
| At leisure | Enjoy free time among Bukhara's illuminated courtyards and tea houses. | Flexible |
The walking order may change to reduce backtracking.
Day 10 — Uzbekistan–Turkmenistan border, Merv and flight to Ashgabat
With: Uzbekistan driver to the border; Turkmen guide and driver after entry
Travel: Known road sections: 347–420 km · about 5 hrs 40 min–8 hrs, plus local airport transfers, border processing and the flight
Walking: About 2–2.5 hrs at Merv on uneven ground
| Time | Program | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| 05:30–07:30 | Drive approximately 97–120 km from Bukhara to Alat checkpoint. | ≈ 2 hr |
| From 07:30, when processing is available | Complete passport control and customs, then move through the controlled border-transport stages with your luggage. | Depends on clearance |
| After the Uzbekistan side | Present the required visa and letter-of-invitation documents, complete entry formalities and meet the local team. | Depends on clearance |
| After border clearance | Drive approximately 250–300 km across eastern Turkmenistan toward Merv and Mary. | ≈ 4–6 hr |
| After the drive | Lunch break at your own expense; a packed meal can be arranged ahead for a long travel day. | ≈ 30 min |
| After lunch | Explore Erk Kala and Gaur Kala, illustrating the successive urban layers of the ancient oasis. | ≈ 1 hr |
| The following 90 minutes | Continue to Kyz Kala, Sultan Sanjar Mausoleum and other accessible monuments; the exact selection follows border progress. | ≈ 1 hr 30 min |
| After the visit, timed to the flight | Transfer from the Merv area to Mary Airport. Your local guide plans departure around the confirmed flight. | ≈ 45–60 min |
| 2 hours before departure | Check-in, bag drop and security. Follow the airline’s reporting time and your issued ticket. | ≈ 2 hr |
| At the ticketed time | Economy flight from Mary to Ashgabat, followed by arrival assistance and a city-hotel transfer. | Per ticket |
Please note: This day depends closely on the border, Merv visit and Mary–Ashgabat flight. We confirm it after checking all three. Late border clearance can shorten Merv; any changes known before travel are agreed in advance.
Day 11 — Ashgabat and Darvaza Gas Crater
With: English-speaking Turkmen guide and driver
Travel: 300–360 km · the main desert drive is about 4–5.5 hrs
Walking: Moderate walking during 3–4 hrs of city visits, plus 1–1.5 hrs around the crater; expect sand and uneven ground
| Time | Program | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| 08:00–09:15 | Tour Ashgabat's central monuments, including the Independence Monument and other accessible landmarks. | ≈ 1 hr 15 min |
| 09:30–11:00 | Visit the National Museum collection when open; local city movement totals approximately 40–70 km. | ≈ 1 hr 30 min |
| 11:00–11:30 | Lunch break at your own expense; a packed meal can be arranged ahead for a long travel day. | ≈ 30 min |
| 11:30–17:00 | Leave Ashgabat and drive approximately 260–290 km north through the Karakum Desert. | ≈ 5 hr 30 min |
| Before sunset and at dusk | Reach the Darvaza area and view the crater from the permitted observation zone as daylight fades. | ≈ 1 hr |
| After dark | Settle into camp and enjoy the included dinner, timed around your after-dark crater visit. | ≈ 2 hr |
| Overnight | Stay in the arranged desert or yurt-style camp. | Overnight |
Please note: Departure from Ashgabat is planned around the seasonal sunset. If the road takes longer, city stops are shortened to preserve the evening Darvaza visit. The crater’s appearance and brightness depend on conditions at the time.
Day 12 — Kunya-Urgench, Turkmenistan–Uzbekistan border and Khiva
With: Turkmen guide and driver to the border; Uzbekistan driver after entry
Travel: 420–510 km · about 6.5–9.5 hrs, excluding border formalities
Walking: About 1.5–2 hrs on uneven archaeological ground
| Time | Program | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| 06:00–11:00 | Drive approximately 270–320 km from Darvaza toward Kunya-Urgench. | ≈ 5 hr |
| 11:00–12:00 | Begin the Kunya-Urgench visit with Ak-Kala and the Il-Arslan and Sultan Tekesh mausoleums as access allows. | ≈ 1 hr |
| 12:00–12:45 | Continue to the Kutlug-Timur Minaret and Turabek-Khanum complex. | ≈ 45 min |
| 12:45–13:15 | Lunch break at your own expense; a packed meal can be arranged ahead for a long travel day. | ≈ 30 min |
| 13:15–15:15 | Drive approximately 90–120 km toward the Dashoguz-side checkpoint. | ≈ 2 hr |
| Around 15:30, subject to clearance | Complete Turkmenistan exit, the controlled shuttle or transfer stage and Uzbekistan entry with your luggage. | Depends on clearance |
| After border clearance | Meet the Uzbekistan driver and transfer approximately 60–70 km to Khiva. | ≈ 60–90 min |
| After the drive | Check in near or inside the Ichan-Kala area according to the departure hotel list. | Flexible |
Please note: This plan requires an early start. Kunya-Urgench visits depend on road progress and confirmed border operating arrangements; delays may shorten sightseeing.
Day 13 — Khiva city tour and flight to Tashkent
With: English-speaking Khiva guide and driver; Tashkent driver after the flight
Travel: 35–45 km to Urgench Airport; 40–60 minutes by road, with check-in time separate.
Walking: About 4–6 hrs on uneven lanes and steps
| Time | Program | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| 08:00–09:00 | Enter through Ota Darvaza and visit Muhammad Amin Khan Madrasah and the turquoise Kalta Minor. | ≈ 1 hr |
| 09:00–10:00 | Explore Kunya-Ark, including the khans' ceremonial and administrative spaces open on the day. | ≈ 1 hr |
| 10:15–11:30 | Continue to Juma Mosque and the Pahlavan Mahmud complex. | ≈ 1 hr 15 min |
| 11:45–13:00 | Visit Islam Khoja and Tash-Khovli Palace as access and the flight schedule permit. | ≈ 1 hr 15 min |
| 13:00–14:15 | Enjoy the included Tukhumbarak farewell meal or an equivalent local farewell meal; the cooking demonstration depends on the departure program. | ≈ 1 hr 15 min |
| 3 hours before departure | Transfer from Khiva to Urgench Airport, approximately 35–45 km. Check-in is a separate stage. | ≈ 40–60 min |
| 2 hours before departure | Check-in, bag drop and security. Follow the airline’s reporting time and your issued ticket. | ≈ 2 hr |
| At the ticketed time | Economy flight from Urgench to Tashkent, followed by a driver meet-and-greet and transfer to your hotel for the final night. | Per ticket |
Please note: The full tour is planned around a suitable evening flight. Khiva–airport travel and check-in have separate time allowances; a different flight requires an agreed sightseeing plan before confirmation.
Day 14 — Depart from Tashkent
With: Private transfer driver; no sightseeing guide
Travel: 10–20 km · usually 20–45 min
Walking: Minimal
| Time | Program | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| 4–3 hours before departure | Check out and meet the driver in the hotel lobby; a breakfast box can be requested for an early departure. | ≈ 15–30 min |
| 4–3 hours before departure | Drive approximately 10–20 km to Tashkent International Airport. | ≈ 20–45 min |
| 3 hours before departure | CAJ.UZ services end after drop-off; continue with airline check-in, security and departure formalities. | ≈ 3 hr |
Is this active Central Asia tour right for you?
This route suits travelers comfortable with early starts, frequent hotel changes and carrying their own luggage at borders. Days 10 and 12 are particularly long. A gentler pace, step-free access or city-hotel facilities every night would require an individually adapted itinerary.
Tour dates and prices
Choose a listed departure or request a private date for 2–12 guests. Each trip is confirmed after checking tickets, accommodation and Turkmenistan services.
| Code | Start | Finish | Standard, per person | Booking |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CA0809 | 4 890 USD | Start your order | ||
| CA2209 | 4 890 USD | Start your order | ||
| CA0610 | 4 890 USD | Start your order | ||
| CA2010 | 4 890 USD | Start your order | ||
| CA0311 | 4 890 USD | Start your order | ||
| CA1627 | 5 190 USD | Start your order | ||
| CA3027 | 5 190 USD | Start your order |
Ideally, book at least 45 days ahead. Later requests are checked individually against Turkmenistan processing times, tickets and hotels.
| Room category | 2026, per person | 2027, per person |
|---|---|---|
| Standard — double/twin | 4 890 USD | 5 190 USD |
| Standard — single | 5 390 USD | 5 790 USD |
| Comfort — double/twin | 5 590 USD | 5 890 USD |
| Comfort — single | 6 390 USD | 6 790 USD |
All prices are in USD per person within a booking of 2–12 guests. Single rates cover 11 city-hotel nights; a private Seven Lakes room and yurt are subject to availability. A solo trip without a second participant needs a separate quote. Comfort upgrades city hotels; remote stays are the same in both categories.
What’s included and excluded
Included in the tour price
- 13 nights: 11 city-hotel nights, one Seven Lakes guesthouse and one Darvaza camp
- 13 breakfasts plus four hosted meals: Don-Aryk family lunch, Seven Lakes dinner, Darvaza dinner and a Khiva farewell meal
- Four regional economy flights and two Uzbekistan economy-class train journeys
- Private road transport sized to the group and luggage, plus airport, station and border handovers in the program
- English-speaking local guides for sightseeing on Days 2–13
- Standard admission for the visits listed in the itinerary
- Preparation and submission of the Turkmenistan LOI application, document guidance and daily drinking water
Not included
- International flights to Almaty and from Tashkent
- Government visa, migration, consular, border and official charges
- Lunches and dinners not listed among the four hosted meals
- Early check-in, late check-out, tips and personal expenses
- Travel insurance and excess baggage above the issued ticket allowance
- Optional activities, special exhibitions, photo or video fees and free-time visits not listed as included
What is planned—and what may change
The Shymbulak cable car, selected museum interiors and some archaeological areas depend on weather, opening hours or official access. If one is closed, the team adjusts the sequence or uses the best practical alternative.
Hotels, guesthouse and Darvaza desert camp
These are our preferred properties. Your travel documents name the actual hotels; if one is unavailable, we use the closest match in category, location and facilities. City stays include breakfast and a private bathroom. Star ratings are local.
| Overnight | Nights | Standard | Comfort upgrade |
|---|---|---|---|
| Almaty | 2 | Grand Voyage or Grand Hotel Tien Shan | Mercure Almaty City Center or Novotel Almaty City Center |
| Bishkek | 1 | Shah Palace or Futuro Hotel | Ambassador Hotel or B Hotel |
| Tashkent | 2 | Florence Boutique Hotel | Wyndham Tashkent or Mercure Tashkent North |
| Samarkand | 2 | Sangzor Boutique Hotel | Hilton Garden Inn or Shohjahon Palace |
| Seven Lakes | 1 | Family guesthouse in Nofin or Padrud selected for the departure | Same local guesthouse; no accommodation upgrade |
| Bukhara | 2 | Mehrob Boutique Hotel | Mercure Bukhara Old Town or Wyndham Bukhara |
| Ashgabat | 1 | Sport Hotel (local 3-star; subject to allocation) or a similar city hotel | Olimpia Hotel (local 4-star; subject to government or event allocation) or the closest available city standard |
| Darvaza | 1 | Locally operated Darvaza yurt or desert camp | Same camp; no accommodation upgrade |
| Khiva | 1 | New Star Medresse Hotel | Orient Star Medresse Hotel |
Seven Lakes family guesthouse: a simple, locally hosted mountain stay.
Darvaza camp near sunset, showing the local-standard yurt setting.
Remote-stay facilities: at Seven Lakes, room layout, hot water and private bathrooms depend on the guesthouse. Darvaza has shared toilets and generally no shower. Ashgabat hotels may change because of official events and room allocations.
March and November: snow or road conditions can limit the higher Seven Lakes. The team visits safely accessible lakes and reallocates time to Penjikent or Sarazm where practical. Cold-season Darvaza bedding and camp arrangements are stated in the travel documents.
Transport and border crossings
Local English-speaking guides lead sightseeing on days 2–13. Days 1 and 14 include transfers without a sightseeing guide. At land borders, the receiving team changes after entry.
Private vehicles and road travel
Private, normally air-conditioned transport is sized to the group and luggage: generally a car for 2, minivan or minibus for 3–7 and mid-size bus for 8–12. Seven Lakes and Darvaza use suitable high-clearance or 4WD vehicles where needed. Exact makes vary, and air-conditioning can be limited on rough remote sections or while stationary.
Included regional flights and trains
| Journey | Included basis | Ticket detail |
|---|---|---|
| Almaty–Bishkek flight | Regional economy airfare | Carrier, time and baggage allowance |
| Bishkek–Tashkent flight | Regional economy airfare | Carrier, time and baggage allowance |
| Tashkent–Samarkand train | Economy-class ticket | Train, station, departure and seat |
| Samarkand–Bukhara train | Economy-class ticket | Train, station, departure and seat |
| Mary–Ashgabat flight | Domestic economy airfare | Carrier, time and baggage allowance |
| Urgench–Tashkent flight | Domestic economy airfare | Carrier, time and baggage allowance |
All six segments follow confirmed tickets. Each ticket states the carrier, timings, seat and baggage allowance; one allowance is not guaranteed across every flight.
Uzbekistan trains: stations and boardingFour land-border crossings and luggage
| Day | Border | How it works |
|---|---|---|
| 6 | Uzbekistan → Tajikistan | Exit and entry with your own luggage; meet the Tajik team after the checkpoint |
| 7 | Tajikistan → Uzbekistan | Repeat the formalities in reverse; meet the Uzbekistan team after entry |
| 10 | Uzbekistan → Turkmenistan | Multi-stage controlled transfer; visa documents and official procedures apply |
| 12 | Turkmenistan → Uzbekistan | Controlled shuttle or transfer stage; meet the Uzbekistan driver after entry |
Choose luggage you can carry yourself on travel and border days. Border procedures, inspections and shuttles are controlled by the authorities.
Uzbekistan land-border guideArrival delays and airport meeting
Send your final flight number so the team can monitor published updates. If the same flight is delayed, the pickup moves with it. If the airline changes the flight number, airport or arrival date—or you cannot find the representative—stay in the public arrivals area and call or WhatsApp +998 90 922 30 73. We agree any replacement arrangement and cost with you first.
Comfort, activity level and preparation
Sightseeing days generally involve 2–6 hours of walking; in Bukhara, around 6–8 km. Expect cobblestones, archaeological ground, steps and uneven mountain paths. Step-free access is not available throughout the route.
Bring layered clothing, stable walking shoes, a light rain layer, sun protection, a small flashlight, power bank, personal medication, one manageable suitcase and a daypack. Seasonal advice and the issued-ticket baggage limit are provided before departure.
The tour includes 13 breakfasts and four hosted meals. Tell us when reserving about vegetarian, vegan or halal preferences and any allergy or medical diet. Requests are passed to hotels and hosts, but remote guesthouses and camps cannot guarantee specialist ingredients or an allergen-free kitchen. Travelers with severe allergies should carry prescribed medication and backup snacks.
Passports, visas and entry
Passport, visa and Turkmenistan LOI requirements
Requirements depend on nationality. Send every traveler’s citizenship when reserving so CAJ.UZ can check all five countries. Turkmenistan normally requires operator support, a letter of invitation and a tourist visa; approval and official fees remain under government control. For the Uzbekistan portion, consult our Uzbekistan visa guide.
The route enters Uzbekistan three times: by air from Bishkek and after the Tajikistan and Turkmenistan visits. Your documents must cover all three entries; requirements are checked by nationality.
Payment, confirmation and cancellation
Rate protection: these prices depend on seats in the included transport classes and availability of the listed or comparable hotels. We show any change before completing your booking. Once the named services and price are secured in writing, that amount will not change for those services. We recheck 2027 services for your chosen date.
Payment costs: hotel taxes and local service charges for included services are covered. Government charges listed under Not included remain separate. Fees charged independently by your bank, card issuer or intermediary bank are not part of the tour price.
Changes, cancellations and refunds
At least 24 hours before the confirmed tour start time shown in your written confirmation, CAJ.UZ's own cancellation fee is zero; however, issued flights and trains, special fares, visa work, hotels and other supplier services may still be partly or fully nonrefundable. Under 24 hours, policy fees may apply. The calculation is provided in writing.
Approved refunds return to the original payer and payment method and are processed by CAJ.UZ within five business days. Read the booking terms, payment information and cancellation and refund policy.
Why travel with CAJ.UZ
Central Asia Journeys (CAJ.UZ) is a Tashkent-based tour operator serving international travelers since 1996. Our published credentials are Registration Certificate No. 000346-07 and Tour Operator License No. T-0292-14. View our company credentials.
Direct contacts: +998 71 236 39 45 · WhatsApp +998 90 922 30 73 · cajourneys@gmail.com
What our travelers say
“I want to thank you for the great organization and your support for my trip.”
Five Stans Tour FAQs
Is this tour suitable for children?
Family participation and children’s prices are assessed individually. Give each child’s age when enquiring, as it affects tickets, accommodation and documents.
Do I need travel insurance?
Travel insurance is not included. Comprehensive cover for medical treatment, evacuation, cancellation, interruption and baggage is strongly recommended; check that the policy covers all five countries and the activities in this itinerary.
Will I have Wi-Fi and electricity every night?
City hotels normally provide Wi-Fi and standard electricity, but speed and outages vary. Seven Lakes and Darvaza can have limited or no Wi-Fi, hot water and charging access. Carry a power bank and download essential documents for offline use.
Are tips and spending money included?
Tips and personal purchases are not included. Gratuities are voluntary, not a mandatory fixed charge. Cards are not accepted everywhere, especially in remote areas, so the local team can advise where to obtain a modest amount of local currency.
Explore more Central Asia tours
Looking for a different route, pace or travel style? Browse our Central Asia tours, including private and small-group journeys.
Uzbekistan and Kyrgyzstan tour
Silk Road cities and mountain scenery on a two-country journey.
23-day Five Stans tour
A longer journey from Ashgabat to Astana.
Order and written confirmation
What happens next
- Choose your date, party size and accommodation category on the order page.
- Complete the order details and choose an available payment method.
- CAJ.UZ checks documents, tickets, hotels and services for your date.
- You receive written confirmation or agree on any proposed changes.
Submitting or paying for an order does not yet confirm the whole tour. Wait for written confirmation before buying non-refundable flights to Almaty and from Tashkent.
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| Tour code | Price and date | Reserved | |
| CA0809 |
$4890
08.09.2026
|
0 pax | Buy |
| CA2209 |
$4890
22.09.2026
|
0 pax | Buy |
| CA0610 |
$4890
06.10.2026
|
0 pax | Buy |
| CA2010 |
$4890
20.10.2026
|
0 pax | Buy |
| CA0311 |
$4890
03.11.2026
|
0 pax | Buy |
| CA1627 |
$5190
16.03.2027
|
0 pax | Buy |
| CA3027 |
$5190
30.03.2027
|
0 pax | Buy |
Price for 1 pax
Standard accommodation. This rate applies to bookings for 2 or more guests.
Double/twin room
$4,890
Single room
$5,390
Comfort Accommodation
Double/twin room
$5,590
Single room
$5,890
Book now.
Prices valid until: 31.12.2026