The Five Stans of Central Asia: All-Inclusive with Airfare
$5,850.00
Embark on The Five Stans of Central Asia tour, an all-inclusive small group journey with airfare that takes you through Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan. Follow the ancient Silk Road, exploring vibrant bazaars, UNESCO World Heritage sites, breathtaking mountain landscapes, and centuries-old traditions. This guided Central Asia tour blends cultural immersion, history, and adventure—complete with curated accommodations, private transportation, and expert local guides for a seamless travel experience.
Turkmenistan is a country known for its vast deserts, ancient Silk Road heritage, and unique cultural identity. Dominated by the Karakum Desert, it is home to the dramatic Darvaza Gas Crater, often called the “Door to Hell.” The capital, Ashgabat, is famous for its gleaming white marble buildings and grandiose monuments. With a rich history rooted in Persian, Turkic, and nomadic traditions, Turkmenistan remains one of the world’s most enigmatic and least-explored countries.
Step into the heart of the Silk Road in Uzbekistan, a land of ancient splendor and vibrant culture. Wander through the breathtaking Registan Square in Samarkand, admire the architectural masterpieces of Bukhara's Ark Fortress, and lose yourself in the UNESCO-listed old town of Khiva. Relish the aroma of freshly baked bread at bustling bazaars and taste authentic plov, the nation’s iconic dish.
Tajikistan is known for its stunning natural beauty and ancient history. Over 90% of the land is covered by rugged mountains, including the towering Pamirs, often called the “Roof of the World.” Its rich cultural heritage is influenced by Persian roots, Silk Road traditions, and Soviet-era history. The capital, Dushanbe, blends modern life with traditional charm. Tajikistan offers breathtaking landscapes, warm hospitality, and a deep connection to its ancient past.
Immerse yourself in the pristine landscapes of Kyrgyzstan, where adventure awaits at every turn. Take in the majestic peaks of the Tien Shan Mountains, sail across the crystal-clear waters of Issyk-Kul Lake, and ride horseback through the serene valleys. Stay in a traditional yurt, sample kumis (fermented mare’s milk), and connect with the nomadic heritage through colorful cultural performances.
Discover the wonders of Kazakhstan, a country where modernity meets untamed wilderness. Explore the futuristic architecture of Nur-Sultan (Astana), savor the vibrant street culture of Almaty, and marvel at the striking red cliffs of Charyn Canyon, often called the "Grand Canyon of Central Asia." Don’t miss the vast steppe landscapes and the ancient petroglyphs at Tamgaly, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
TOUR ROUTE: LAX – Ashgabat – Darwaza Gas Crater – Bukhara – Samarkand – Penjikent – Samarkand – Tashkent – Bishkek – Burana Tower – Issyk-Kul Lake – Karakol – Charyn Canyon – Almaty – LAX
TRAVEL DATE:
Thursday, 3/19/2026 – Sunday, 4/5/2026
ITINERARY AT A GLANCE:
- Day 1 – 3 (Thu, 3.19 – Sat, 3.21): LAX – Ashgabat, Turkmenistan
- Day 3 (Sat, 3.21): Ashgabat – Sightseeing (B.L.D)
- Day 4 (Sun, 3.22): Ashgabat, Darwaza gas crater by road (320 km) (B.L.D)
- Day 5 (Mon, 3.23): Darwaza-Ashgabat by road, 320km (B.L.D)
- Day 6 (Tue, 3.24): Ashgabat – Mary by morning flight
Mary – Merv Ancient City – "Farap" land border – Bukhara by road, 385 km, Uzbekistan (B.L.D)
- Day 7 (Wed, 3.25): Bukhara (B.L.D)
- Day 8 (Thu, 3.26): Bukhara – Samarkand by road, 280 km (B.L)
- Day 9 (Fri, 3.27): Samarkand (B.L)
- Day 10 (Sat, 3.28): Samarkand, day trip to Tajikistan by road, 120 km (B.L.D)
- Day 11 (Sun, 3.29): Samarkand – Tashkent by evening train (B.L)
- Day 12 (Mon, 3.30): Tashkent – Bishkek by afternoon flight, Kyrgyzstan (B.D)
- Day 13 (Tue, 3.31): Bishkek (B.L.D)
- Day 14 (Wed, 4.1): Bishkek – Burana Tower – Issyk-Kul Lake by road (280 km) (B.L)
- Day 15 (Thu, 4.2): Issyk-Kul – Djeti-Oguz Gorge – Karakol by road (150 km) (B.L.D)
- Day 16 (Fri, 4.3): Karakol – "Kegen" land border – Charyn Canyon – Almaty by road, Kazakhstan (380km) (B.L.D)
- Day 17 (Sat, 4.4): Almaty – Sightseeing (B.L.D)
- Day 18 (Sun, 4.5): Almaty – LAX (B)
PRICE INCLUDES:
- International & domestic flights
- Train tickets
- Local flight from Ashgabat to Mary (economy class)
- Railway transfer from Samarkand to Tashkent on a high-speed train (economy class)
- Local flight from Tashkent to Bishkek (economy class)
- All transportations by private vehicles
- Professional English speaking tour guides
- 4* Hotels & comfort traditional yurt
- Daily breakfast (B), 14 lunches (L), & 11 dinners (D)
- Entrance fee, shuttle bus & any other fees of the scenic spots as required
- Visit of El-Merosi Theatre in Samarkand
- Activities & excursions as listed in the itinerary
PRICE EXCLUDES:
- Health & travel insurance
- Turkmenistan Visa $120/person
- Tipping: $10 person/day for driver(s) and guide(s). To be collected prior to the trip
- Personal expenses/meals/sightseeing that are not listed in itinerary
- PCR test in Ashgabat airport $42/person
MAKING RESERVATION:
- Call Catherine at Tarzana Tour and Travel at 626-380-7948
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Email a copy of your passport to catherine@tarzanatour.com
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By putting your deposit, you have read and agreed to the following:
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Reservation Deadline & Cancellation Policy ($500 deposit is non-refundable and non-transferable)
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Disclaimer / Release of Liability Agreement
IMPORTANT NOTE:
- In the current global climate, we strongly recommend all guests purchase flight and travel insurance to cover all contingencies and nonrefundable deposits and expenses.
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Airfares are constantly fluctuating now more than ever, making prices subject to change without prior notice.
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A reservation without a deposit does not secure your spot on the trip.
ITINERARY DETAILS - PART I
- Day 1 – 3 (Thu, 3.19 – Sat, 3.21): LAX – Ashgabat, Turkmenistan
- Day 3 (Sat, 3.21): Ashgabat – Sightseeing (B.L.D)
2:55 AM – Arrival in Ashgabat (Flight TK 322). Meet at the airport for a group transfer to the hotel, check in, and rest. After breakfast, meet your local guide and begin exploring Ashgabat, the capital of Turkmenistan. Today’s highlights include the Sunday Bazaar, National Museum, Independence Park, Rukhnama Monument, Neutrality Arch, the iconic Ferris Wheel, and the Magtymguly Monument. End the day with dinner at a local restaurant.
Overnight: Sport Hotel, Ashgabat
- Day 4 (Sun, 3.22): Ashgabat, Darwaza gas crater by road (320 km) (B.L.D)
After breakfast, visit Nissa (UNESCO World Heritage Site) and the Turkmenbashi Mosque-Mausoleum. In the afternoon, drive into the Karakum Desert toward Darwaza, stopping to see fascinating mud and water craters along the way. Arrive before sunset (~18:00) to enjoy a BBQ dinner and witness the famous burning gas crater by day and night.
Overnight: shared twin yurts with community bathroom, Ashgabat.
Driving: 3.5–4.5 hrs
- Day 5 (Mon, 3.23): Darwaza – Ashgabat by road, 320km (B.L.D)
After breakfast at camp, drive back to Ashgabat. Upon arrival, continue sightseeing with visits to the Ahalteke horse stables, the striking Ertogrul Ghazi Mosque, and the Lenin and Pushkin monuments.
Overnight: Sport Hotel, Ashgabat
- Day 6 (Tue, 3.24): Ashgabat – Mary by morning flight
Mary – Merv Ancient City – "Farap" land border – Bukhara by road, 385 km (B.L.D)
After breakfast, meet your guide and transfer to the airport for your flight to Mary. Upon arrival, visit the ancient city of Merv, a remarkable UNESCO World Heritage Site, and explore its historic wonders. Later, continue to the land border with Uzbekistan for border formalities, then meet your Uzbek guide and driver for the onward transfer to Bukhara.
Overnight: Paradise Plaza, Bukhara
Driving: 5–6 hrs
- Day 7 (Wed, 3.25): Bukhara (B.L.D)
After breakfast, begin a guided sightseeing tour of Bukhara, visiting the Ismail Samani Mausoleum, Chashma Ayub Mausoleum, Bolo Khauz Mosque, Ark Citadel, and the Po-i-Kalyan Complex (including the Kalyan Minaret and surrounding monuments). Continue to the Ulugbek Madrasah and Abdulaziz-Khan Madrasah. After lunch, explore the Lyab-i Hauz Architectural Ensemble, Kukeldash Madrasah, Nadir Divan-Begi Madrasah, and the city’s domed shopping arcades.
Overnight: Paradise Plaza, Bukhara
- Day 8 (Thu, 3.26): Bukhara – Samarkand by road, 280 km (B.L)
Today we continue exploring Bukhara with visits to two important sites just outside the city: Sitorai-Khosa, the summer residence of the last Emir of Bukhara, and the Bahautdin Naqshbandi complex. After lunch, we drive to Samarkand. In the evening, enjoy a leisurely walk around the magnificent Registan Square, followed by the stunning light show.
Overnight: Marokand Spa Hotel, Samarkand.
Driving: 4hrs.
- Day 9 (Fri, 3.27): Samarkand (B.L)
Start the day with a guided sightseeing tour of Samarkand, beginning at the iconic Registan Square, home to the Ulugbek, Sher-Dor, and Tilla-Qori Madrasahs. Continue to the Gur-e Amir Mausoleum, the final resting place of Tamerlane, and view the Rukhabad Mausoleum from the outside.
After lunch, visit the majestic Bibi-Khanym Mosque, the sacred Shah-i-Zinda Necropolis, and the fascinating Ulugbek Observatory. Conclude the day with a cultural performance at the El Merosi Theatre of Traditional Costume.
Overnight: Marokand Spa Hotel, Samarkand.
- Day 10 (Sat, 3.28): Samarkand, day trip to Tajikistan by road, 120 km (B.L.D)
After an early breakfast, we embark on a day trip to Tajikistan, once part of ancient Sogdiana. In the morning, transfer to the land border, complete formalities, and meet your Tajik guide and driver before beginning the sightseeing tour of Penjikent. Highlights include the Sarazm ruins (a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Central Asia’s oldest settlements, dating back 5,500 years), the Rudaki Museum, and the bustling local bazaar.
Continue to the spectacular Seven Lakes region, part of the Fann Mountain system. Each of these alpine lakes reflects different hues depending on the sun’s position—ranging from deep blue to shimmering indigo ripples. Though often too cold for swimming, even in summer, their beauty is captivating. Today, we will visit six of the lakes and enjoy a traditional lunch at a local guesthouse located near the fourth lake.
In the afternoon, drive back to the Uzbek border. After border formalities, return to Samarkand and transfer to the hotel.
Overnight: Marokand Spa Hotel, Samarkand.