The Five Stans of Central Asia

Travel Date: MAR 19, 2026 – APR 6, 2026

Stretching across the ancient Silk Road, the Five Stans—Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, Kyrgyzstan, and Kazakhstan—are lands of snow-capped mountains, vast deserts, turquoise lakes, bustling bazaars, and some of the most breathtaking Islamic architecture on Earth.

Every country revealed a different character. In Kyrgyzstan, nomadic traditions are still very much alive as families welcome travelers into their yurts beneath endless skies. Uzbekistan dazzles with the magnificent blue domes of Samarkand, and Bukhara—cities that once welcomed merchants, scholars, and explorers from every corner of the world. Kazakhstan surprised me with its modern cities alongside sweeping grasslands, while Tajikistan offered dramatic mountain scenery that seemed to stretch forever. Turkmenistan felt unlike anywhere else, mysterious and fascinating in its own unique way.

Looking back, I feel incredibly grateful for this experience. Despite the uncertainty and tensions in the world during our travels, the trip unfolded beautifully. The weather was wonderful throughout, the landscapes were spectacular, and the people we met - from our guides and drivers to the local residents - were warm, welcoming, and kind.

Over the past few weeks, we crossed deserts, mountains, canyons, ancient Silk Road cities, colorful bazaars, and remote villages. We shared meals with local families, learned about different cultures and histories, and created friendships and memories that will stay with us for years to come.

Thank you to everyone who joined the Five Stans of Central Asia adventure. It was truly a journey of discovery, connection, laughter, and wonder.

Tour Route: LAX – Ashgabat – Darwaza Gas Crater – Bukhara – Samarkand – Penjikent – Samarkand – Tashkent – Bishkek – Burana Tower – Issyk-Kul Lake – Karakol – Charyn Canyon – Almaty – LAX

Photos credit to Lincoln, Gabriel, Lynn, and Inge.

The Five Stans of Central Asia