Silk Road Tour to 5 Stans and the Caucasus

After your arrival at Almaty airport, our company representatives will meet you and accompany to your hotel, free time for rest. This day you'll have a full sightseeing tour around Almaty city. It is the largest metropolis of Kazakhstan, located in the foothills of the Trans-Ili Alatau mountain range. Until 1997, it was the capital of the state and still remains a commercial and cultural centre. «Almaty» is translated from Kazakh as «the city of apple trees». Your sightseeing program will include the main sights of the city: Panfilov Park, Zenkov Wooden Cathedral, Memorial of Glory and Eternal Flame, Almaty's Green Bazaar. The bazaar appeared here 100 hundred years ago and still remains the important trading part of the city. It is an attractive touristic place full of the colourful local atmosphere where one can buy national products, smoked fish, spices, medicinal herbs, cheeses, as well as chat with good-natured friendly sellers and get to know the everyday life of Kazakhs. The tour will proceed to the Kok-Tobe hill where the tallest TV tower in the world is located. In the Kok-Tobe Park, there is a great observation area for enjoying the view of Almaty. The tour will end with the short ride from the top of the hill to the centre of the city by the famous Almaty cableway. Dinner will be served in the local restaurant.

This day you will visit the picturesque area near Almaty known for its natural gems. First, you will stop in Medeo and Shymbulak Mountain resorts and will take a ski lift to reach the height of 3200 meters to enjoy the fresh mountain air and nice views. On your way back to the city you will stop at the Falcon Farm to enjoy the show of trained hawks. Dinner will be served in the local restaurant.

First, you will be transferred to Kazakhstan – Kyrgyzstan border and after passing the customs your exciting journey will begin. Kyrgyzstan is a mysterious less discovered country of picturesque lakes and rivers, mountain peaks covered with eternal snows, friendly nomads and the unique flavour of Asian food. After check-in at the hotel, you will have some time for a rest. А little bit later you will have a sightseeing tour including such sights as the local bazaar, Ala-Too Square and monuments to national heroes. Dinner will be served in the local restaurant.

This day you will leave Bishkek to visit the gem of Kyrgyz nature – Issyk Kul Lake. It is the seventh deepest lake in the world and the second-largest saline lake after the Caspian Sea. Before reaching Issyk Kul you will make a stop to visit Burana Tower and enjoy lunch at the local Kyrgyz family. On the lake shores, you will admire the inspiring views of mountain peaks, unspoilt nature, surrounding woods. You will have lunch at a local Kyrgyz family.

In the morning you will head to Grigorevka Gorge - the largest and most famous one on the northern coast of Issyk-Kul, located on the Kungey Ala-Too mountain range. It is located at about 30 km from Cholpon-Ata city, on the road from Bishkek. It is a land of gently sloping valleys and dense fir forests. You will spend several hours in this area enjoying the beauty and tranquillity of surrounding nature. Lunch will be served at a local restaurant. In the afternoon, you will return to Bishkek to have a rest and then, dinner at the local restaurant.

Today you’re going to visit Ala Archa gorge located at a distance of 45 km from Bishkek. The gorge lies within the national park on a spur of the Tien Shan mountain range. It is a wonderful place for hiking, enjoying fresh crystal air, the fabulous scenery and tranquility. Afterwards, you will return to Bishkek and will have free time for shopping. After lunch, prepares to have a flight to Tashkent - the capital of Uzbekistan. The country is attractive due to the long-lasting history connected with the Great Silk Road, distinctive architectural style, exotic national cuisine and unique cultural traditions. Dinner will be served in the local restaurant.

Prepare to learn lots of curious secrets this day. You will have a full sightseeing tour around Tashkent covering all the important monuments: Khast Imam Complex (where is kept the world's oldest Koran), Chorsu bazaar and Madrasah Kukeldash the largest madrasa (educational institution) of the 16 century. After lunch, your tour will proceed to the modern part of the city. You will explore the Independent Square and A. Navoi theatre square. Independence Square is located at the centre of the city and is considered the favourite place of the locals. Here you will see the well-known beautiful fountains as well as many important government buildings and administrative institutions such as Uzbek Parliament Supreme Chamber, the Cabinet of Ministers of the Republic of Uzbekistan and others. In the Museum of Applied Art of Uzbekistan, you will have a chance to admire over 7,000 samples of applied arts: handmade embroidery, skull-caps, jewellery, carpets and other Uzbek art exhibits. Dinner will be served in the local restaurant.

The day will start with a trip to the important historical city Samarkand occupying a central position on the Silk Road. The city is protected by UNESCO and is considered one of the most ancient cities on the earth. The tour will start with an exploration of Registan Square famous for its architectural ensemble of three madrasahs (Islamic schools) - the Ulugh Beg Madrasah, the Tilya-Kori Madrasah and the Sher-Dor Madrasah. The tour will proceed to the mausoleum of Gur-e-Amir where was founded the tomb of Tamerlane the Conqueror. The last historical sights to visit will be Shaki Zinda Necropolis and Bibi-Khanym Mosque. To plunge into the local culture and try many exotic national products we recommend visiting Samarkand central bazaar. Be sure to try the famous local national bread – non. Dinner will be organized in a local restaurant.

In the morning you will leave Samarkand for one of the most ancient cities of Central Asia - Panjakent. It is located in the picturesque valley of Zeravshan River and is about 5500 years old. There were times when Penjikent was one of the most important cultural and craft centres of the country. It was even called the "Central Asian Pompeii." It was a splendidly fortified, well-maintained city with the ruler’s palace, two temples, markets, rich dwellings of citizens, decorated with numerous paintings. Then the city was destroyed by Arabs and only in the last century its ruins were found by archaeologists. You will have a chance to explore the ruins, see the remains of different constructions, admire the masterpieces of the early Middle Age eastern painting etc. Dinner will be organized in a local restaurant.

This day you will have a trip to the natural gems of Tajikistan – Seven Lakes located at the distance of 60 km south of Panjakent. You will visit the 6 lakes, since reaching the 7th lake requires hiking. After a pleasant time in such a paradise, you will return to Samarkand (90 km) through Jartepo border. Enjoy some free time in Samarkand, have a rest and get ready for the further exploration of this unique city. In the rest of the day, you will continue with the sightseeing tour and will visit Paper Mills Factory, Afrasiyob Museum and Ulugbek’s observatory, which is the biggest one in the East.

Your day will start with a trip to Bukhara – the town of the unprecedented number of mosques, the tombs of many Islamic saints, the significant religious places and architectural masterpieces. During the way, you will make several stops to visit important historical places such as the ruins of medieval monument Caravanserai Rabat-i-Malik and Gijduvan town. In Bukhara, you will visit Chor Minor memorial and have a rest at the local cosy hotel. Dinner will be organized in a local restaurant.

The day will be devoted to the exploration of Bukhara historical heritage. The town was founded about 2000 years ago and became the major centre of the Great Silk Road and the capital of the great state of the Samanids. Persian rulers ennobled the appearance of Bukhara, erecting beautiful palaces, tombs, caravanserais, madrassas, and mosques. Your city tour program will include the following sights: Samanid’s dynasty mausoleum, Chashma Ayub Mausoleum, Bolo Haouz Mosque, the Ark Fortress, Kalon Complex, Magoki Attori Mosque, Ulugbek and Abdulazizi Khan Madrasahs and Lyabi-Khauz Ensemble. The day will end with a pleasant dinner and folk show – program in old Nodir Devon Begi Madrassah. Dinner will be organized in Nodir Devon Begi Madrassah.

The day will start with the second part of your sightseeing tour around Bukhara. You will visit the summer palace of Emir Said Mir Mohammed Alim Khan. After lunch, you will be transferred to Uzbekistan- Turkmenistan border for passing the customs and tour continuation. You will head to Mary city through Turkmenabat (4-5 hours driving). On the way, you will cross the world- known Karakum Desert considered the hottest one in Central Asia. Its name is translated as «the black sand» which is explained by the dark soil lying beneath the sand. Dinner will be organized in a local restaurant.

After breakfast, you will travel to explore the ancient Marv city (40 km from Mary) preserved in ruins. It has a long 4000-year-old history during which it was the capital of different kingdoms and empires. Nowadays it is included in the UNESCO Heritage list. With the help of our professional guides, you will have a deep immersion into the historical heritage of Marv and will visit the following sights: Gyz Gala and Oglan Gala, Complex of Askhabs, Gyaur Gala, Erk Gala, Soltan Gala, Soltan Sanjar Mausoleum, Ibn Zeid Mausoleum. After lunch, you will return to Mary and will have a walking tour in the central part of the city. The tour will include visits to the local United Museum of History, Ethnography, Flora and Fauna of Mary and Orthodox Church built by Russians at the end of XIX century, the Regional Mosque, the Central Theater, the Convention and Conference Center “Ruhiyet Koshgi”, the Central Park and the Monument of Mollanepes. After the end of the tour, you'll have a flight to Ashgabat city. Dinner will be organized in a local restaurant.

This day you will have a full exploration of Ashgabat city. Ashgabat is «the city of white marble», the largest administrative, political, industrial, scientific and cultural centre of the state. Due to the abundance of pure white marble buildings, the city was included into the Guinness World Records book. First, you will see the beautiful fountain complex of Oguz Han & Sons and then the main Turkmenian Mosque. After a while, you will have a short trip to Nissa historical complex. It consists of two archeologic monuments - Old and New Nissa. Next, you'll return to Ashgabat and see the famous monument of the capital the Monument to the Turkmenistan Constitution founded to mark the 20th anniversary of Turkmenistan's independence. After the lunch break and some time for a rest, you will get acquainted with the cultural peculiarities of the country. In the National Carpet Museum explore the local unique handiwork and in Gulistan Bazaar try local products and communicate with locals. Dinner will be organized in a local restaurant.

The tour will start early in the morning. You will travel to the stunning mysterious natural sight Darvaza Gas crater. Just in the middle of the desert, you will see the unique seen of a circular large crater with burning gs that never goes out. The sight of a flame burning among the yellow sands of the desert fascinates and intrigues even experienced travellers. The crater has been burning since 1971. You will learn the interesting version of the crater appearance from your guide. Dinner will be arranged in a camp style.

After the picnic in the camps, you will head to Koneurgench city (260 km, 4 hours). It is an architectural reserve which once was the capital of Khorezm ancient region and state. In 2005 all the historical monuments of the city were included into the UNESCO World Heritage list. You will explore such sights as Turabek Hanum Mausoleum, Kutlug Timur Minaret, Sultan Tekesh Mausoleum, Academy of Horezm, Il Arslan Mausoleum, Mamun Minaret, Mausoleums of Najm Ed Din & Soltan Ali. At the end of the tour, you will be transferred to the Uzbekistan border and proceed to Khiva (165 km, 2 hours 30 min) historical city. Dinner will be organized in a local restaurant.

This day you will explore Khiva town – one of the most ancient and special ones in the country. It was mentioned even in the X century. as the trading centre of the Great Silk Road. Here you will visit the main sight Itchan Kala town which once served as the resting-place for caravans. You will stroll around its unique streets and feel like in ancient times. Itchan Kala was included into UNESCO World Heritage list in 1990. Your city tour program will also include the madrasah of Muhammad Amin-khan, Kelta Minar, Kunya Ark, madrasah of Muhammad Rakhimkhan, Pakhlavan Mahmud Mausoleum, Islam Khodja Minaret and Madrasah, Djuma Mosque and Minaret, and Tash Hovli Palace. Have a drive to Urgench. The day will end with a flight from Urgench to Tashkent. Dinner will be served in the local restaurant.

You will arrive in Baku. Our company's representatives will meet you at the airport and you will have a transfer to the hotel. Free day in Baku; Baku is the capital of Azerbaijan, its scientific, cultural, and industrial centre. After the second oil boom in 2006, the city turned into the modern one with unique extraordinary jaw-dropping masterpieces. During your free time, you can just stroll in the city centre, feel the atmosphere, have a cup of tea or coffee in local cafes and admire the attractive architecture.

Tour to Gobustan historical-art reserve perfectly preserved rock paintings (petroglyphs) a kind of artistic "archive" of human evolution on Earth. "Documents" of such archive is the first human’s presentation to the world. Gobustan Rocks are the brightest witnesses of the prehistoric period of human existence and reflect the history of this region for nearly 15,000 years – since the end of the Upper Paleolithic era till middle Ages, this phenomenon set up a lot of different interpretations. Today scientists found and studied more than 4,000 petroglyphs. Visit the interactive museum, wherewith the help of special programs and multimedia touch screens you’ll get information about the nature and the flora of Gobustan. Then you will have the opportunity to explore the traces of active mud volcanoes.

The trip will start with a city tour in Baku. The route covers the downtown and shows the most interesting historical and architectural sights. The tourists will visit and see the Flag Square, a new Carpet Museum - design of the building is distinguished by its originality as the museum is built in the form of a folded carpet, enjoy the look of the House of Government, the Philharmonic Theatre named after M. Magomayev, the Baku Mayor's office and will visit the "Governor's garden." Then the tour will continue visiting the "old city" that had preserved and walls and narrow cobbled streets till our days. A number of the Soviet-time movies were shot here. Tourists will see the main attractions of the Old City, including the Palace of the Shirvan Shahs (XV cent), the symbol of the city - Maiden Tower (IX cent), Karvansarays, mosques etc. We will continue our excursion visiting Cultural Center named after Heydar Aliyev. Heydar Aliyev Center is a cultural centre, projected as a complex structure that includes the auditorium (convention centre), a museum, exhibition halls, administrative offices. The design of the building is also notable for the fact that neither in the interior or exterior of the building has any angles. The project of the centre was designed by the winner of Pritzker prize and internationally recognized architect Zaha Hadid.

Breakfast and Check out, drive to the north-west of Azerbaijan through the Caucasus Mountains, the dry landscape around Baku replaced by dense forest mountains. On route visit the city of Shamakhi, with its largest mosque of the Caucasus and the tomb of the Shirvan Shahs, rulers of "Yeddi Gyumbyaz" First, you will head to the Gabala Lake, where you can ride a non-powered boat. Gabala Lake is a gem, half-natural, half man-made, then Tufandag Mountain, riding the Cable car. Proceed to Gabala to Visit Nij village famous with its ancient religious buildings and citizens, the only place in the world where Udins ethnicity lives (very ancient Caucasian ethnos) that have its own authentic culture and traditions, visit of Chuhur Gabala (ruins of ancient Caucasian Albania’s capital Kabala a very significant place and huge educational centre for mags, priests of Zoroastrian temples. Drive to Sheki, one of the most famous and ancient places of Azerbaijan. Situated 700m above sea level like an amphitheatre surrounded by the mountains and forests of oak trees, this ancient city was long famed as a silk centre & important stop on the Great Silk Route. Start Sheki City Tour visiting the 18th century Khan's summer Palace with magnificent frescos and exquisite stained glass. Then visit “Shebeke” handmade frescos’ workshop, “Pakhlava” famous local sweets’ workshop and “Tekulduz” popular weaving workshop, walking in the old street to witness the different craftsman.

On this day, you will head to Georgia. After crossing the Azerbaijan–Georgia (Lagodekhi) border, you will meet your Georgian representatives and begin your journey toward Tbilisi. Along the way, you won’t miss the chance to stroll through the cozy streets of Sighnaghi, a picturesque town often referred to as the "City of Love." Despite its small size, Sighnaghi is rich in historical and cultural heritage, offering breathtaking views, charming architecture, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere. After your visit to Sighnaghi, you will continue on to Tbilisi, where you will stay overnight. Tbilisi is considered one of the most cosmopolitan cities in the South Caucasus. Its vibrant atmosphere and the seamless blend of modern life with ancient history leave a lasting impression on every visitor.

After breakfast, you'll have a short trip to Mtskheta – one of the most ancient towns and the first capital of Georgia, known as the religious centre of the country. Here you will go up the hill to the Jvari Monastery – the amazing symbol of the Georgian church architecture which offers a fascinating view of the confluence of two rivers Kura and Aragvi. According to the legend, at the site of the monastery St. Nino established one of her three crosses. The excursion will continue to Svetitskhoveli Cathedral of the 11th century – the first and the main church in Georgia. After your return to Tbilisi, we’ll continue with a city tour around Tbilisi, the bright and hospitable capital of Georgia, including an in-depth exploration of the old town. The program includes the historic district of Metekhi, where you will see the Assumption Church located on the picturesque hill. Next stop is Bridge of Peace – designed by a well-known Italian architect; it is one of the most famous city’s landmarks. Going up to the Narikala Fortress, situated on a hill, you will reach the fortress by the cable car, and at the top, a spectacular view of the city will open. Going down on foot, the excursion will continue to the sulfuric baths – famous royal bath complex (XVII-XIX centuries), standing on the warm natural sulfur springs. That is one of the main attractions of the Old Town. Stroll around cosy Shardeni Street named after the French traveller Jean Chardin. The street has an architecture resembling Paris and is full of cosy cafes, boutiques, and interesting galleries. The way will continue to Juma Mosque located on the Botanical Street, as well as a visit to Meydan Square – one of the central squares of Old Town. Then, you will continue the excursion to Sioni church. There is kept one of the greatest relics of Georgia, the cross of St. Patriarchate.

In the morning you will head to Ananuri Fortress – a well-preserved castle located on the shore of the Zhinvali Reservoir, the former defensive fortress of the feudal era. The fortress surrounded by green velvet hills was founded in 1720 with a defensive purpose. The tour will proceed to Gudauri resort – one of the most popular ski destinations in Georgia. Despite the fact that its tourist season starts in winter, Gudauri is no less attractive in summer and autumn: green mountains, sunlit meadows strewn with fragrant flowers, fields with peacefully grazing cows, silence and absolute idyll. Here you will see the Balcony dedicated to the treaty of Georgiyevsk and enjoy the amazing views to the mountains that open from here. After the 5-minute drive, you will visit Sour waters of Vedza. The place offers picturesque scenes. In Stepantsminda settlement, you will go up the hill to visit Gergeti Trinity Church situated at an altitude of 2170 m at the foot of Mount Kazbek. The church was built in the XIV century and is the only cross-domed church in the historic Georgian province Khevi. From the top opens an unforgettable beautiful scenery to the famous Mount Kazbek. The last tour destination will be to the Dariali Gorge and the church of Transfiguration. Return to Tbilisi.

In the morning, you will drive to the east of the country, to Kakheti – the main winemaking region of Georgia. Your tour will begin with an exploration of Telavi, the center of the Kakheti region. The journey continues to the Tsinandali Estate, the patrimony of the famous Georgian Chavchavadze dynasty. The estate is known for its beautiful labyrinth of exotic trees and its historic wine cellars, which preserve a unique collection of Georgian and European wines. Next, you will visit the Batonis Tsikhe Fortress Museum, dedicated to the beloved Georgian King Erekle II. At the end of the day, enjoy a tour of the renowned Khareba winery, where you’ll have the opportunity to taste local wines and participate in a masterclass on baking traditional Georgian bread, shoti. You will then return to Tbilisi for the evening.

After breakfast, you will have a transfer to the Georgian-Armenian border. Your pleasant trip to Armenia will start after passing the customs. First stop will be in Tavush region where you will have visits to the medieval monasteries of Goshavank and Haghartsin. The region is also home to the cosy resort town of Dilijan known for its arts and crafts as well as picturesque lush nature and healing fresh air. The trip will continue to Gegharkunik Province which is known for amazing Lake Sevan. It is one of the highest freshwater lakes in the world located at an altitude of 1900 meters above sea level. In the evening, you will be in Yerevan.

This day you will have a city tour around Yerevan, the ancient capital of Armenia, which was founded in 782 B.C. Armenians are proud that Yerevan is 29 years older than Rome. During the city tour, you will walk around the centre of the city and visit Cascade, Opera and Ballet Theater, Mashtots Avenue, and the Republic Square. The tour also includes a visit to the Matenadaran Museum, a repository of one of the richest manuscript collections in the world. After the city tour, you will head to Echmiadzin town – the religious centre of all Armenians around the world. Hereafter the adoption of Christianity in 301 AD was built one of the first Christian cathedrals in the world – Echmiadzin Cathedral. It is the seat of the Supreme Patriarch of the Catholicos of all Armenians. The cathedral keeps an important religious relic – the Holy Lance spear. In 2000 it was listed as a UNESCO site. You’ll see the ruins of Zvartnots temple (7th century, UNESCO World Heritage Site), that was a miracle of its time. The trip will end with the visit of the Genocide Memorial – a solemn reminder of the first genocide of the 20th century.

The day will start with a trip to Ararat Province where proudly stands one of the holiest sites in Armenia – Khor Virap Monastery. You will climb up a small hill to explore the monastery and enjoy the breathtaking view of Biblical Mount Ararat. The tour will continue through a narrow canyon to the valley of red rocks, right where Noravank Monastery is located – built in the 13th century, it is a masterpiece of Armenian architect Momik. On the territory of the monastery, amazing khachkars are scattered all around – crosstones designed by Momik.

This day you will have a 1-hour drive to the Canyon of Azat River. Our destination is Geghard Monastery. This unique monastery is carved into nearby rocks and the surrounding cliffs compose a great part of it. In 2000 it became a UNESCO heritage site. The trip leads us to Garni village, well known for its Garni temple – the only surviving example of Hellenistic architecture in the region. Back in Yerevan, you will have an excursion in the History Museum of Armenia – the main historical museum of the country known for its Archaeological, Numismatic, and Ethnographic collections.

Transfer to the airport, departure.