Discover the wonders, intrigue, and cultures of the 3,000-year-old Silk Route linking Asia to Europe and Africa. Retrace historic caravan paths that will take you through stunning desert landscapes, into alpine mountains, past sparkling lakes, and into the midst of urban, village, and nomadic communities. Historically one of the world’s most traveled regions, today few travelers venture here. If you can take the time to experience this full journey, you will gain a unique perspective on an important region with multi-layered beauty to uncover. Knowledgeable local guides facilitate your border crossings, handle the details of accommodations, and lead in-depth sightseeing throughout the trip.
Note: On this adventure, you should expect long drives, poor road conditions, border delays, and rustic accommodations in some places.
On arrival in Almaty, you will be met and transferred to your hotel. Almaty is the largest as well as the most culturally diverse city in Kazakhstan.
Depending on your arrival time, after you’ve had a chance to freshen up, you’ll head out with your guide for a walking tour to see architecture iconic of Almaty: beautiful wooden Russian buildings such as the Zenkov Cathedral, the ex-assembly House of Czar Officers, and an early 20th century apparel shop. Also visit 28 Panfilov’s Guardsmen Park and explore the Green Bazaar.
Meals
Breakfast, Dinner
Lodging
Hotel Otrar or Hotel Plaza or similar
BDay 2Almaty City Tour & Almaty Lake
Spend the day getting yourself acquainted with Almaty’s history on a city tour beginning with a visit to the National Museum of History. Next, explore the Republic Square and take a cable car ride to Kok Tobe for panoramic views of the city.
This afternoon, head out for an excursion to the picturesque Big Almaty Lake, whose turquoise surface reflects the surrounding peaks like a mirror. Afterwards, visit the Sunkar Bird Refuge to learn about the birds of prey in the area. Sunkar was originally established to protect the Sakar falcon, which was captured and exported to Arabia for big money. The reserve is now home to 15 different species of birds including owls, eagles, lammergeier, vultures, hawks, and falcons. Though most birds at the center are not able to be re-released, there is a breeding program that releases golden eagles and Sakar falcons back into the wild. You’ll also see a show performed by some of the birds.
Return to your hotel in Almaty for your overnight.
Meals
Breakfast, Dinner
Lodging
Hotel Otrar or similar
CDay 3Drive to Karakol, Kyrgyzstan
After breakfast, head towards the border to the next country, Kyrgyzstan, first stopping to visit the amazing Charyn Canyon. This canyon is considered to be the younger brother of the Grand Canyon, smaller, but similar in appearance. The dramatic erosion made by the Charyn River has created an impressive landscape. This area is also known as the Valley of Castles due to its peculiar bright red color and rock formations that resemble castles. It’s just as spectacular during the day as it is under the starlit skies of the night.
Continue across the border into Kyrgyzstan and proceed with border formalities. Meet your Kyrgyz guide and proceed along the picturesque Karkara Valley, famous for its mountain flowers that attract many bee keepers, to your hotel in Karakol.
Today’s total estimated driving time: 250 miles.
Meals
Breakfast, Dinner
Lodging
Hotel Karagat or similar
DDay 4Karakol to Kochkor Village
The atmosphere of Karakol will take you back a hundred years and give you the feel of Tsarist Russia. You’ll spend some time exploring the city including the old Russian-style homes, built between 1870 and 1910; the 19th-century Russian Orthodox Church; and the Dungan Mosque, built by Chinese architect Chou Seu and skilled Chinese carvers in the early 1900’s.
Afterwards, head out on a drive offering spectacular scenery and frequent stops as you travel to Kochkor Village. Your first stop will be Jeti-Oguz Gorge for the chance to admire the fantastic rock formations made of red sandstone. The local pastures here are used by shepherds grazing their flocks of sheep and herds of horses. Proceed along the south shores of Issyk-Kul, the world’s second largest alpine lake (only smaller than Lake Titicaca in South America) to Kochkor, the biggest producer of traditional Kyrgyz felt handicrafts. When you arrive at Kochkor, you will meet a family that will show you how to make woolen felt carpets. You can even participate in the process! Dinner and overnight will be at a local home stay.
Total driving distance is about 155 miles.
Meals
Breakfast, Dinner
Lodging
Homestay
EDay 5Son-Kul Lake via the Kalmak-Ashuu Pass
The drive today continues to the alpine region of Son-Kul Lake over the Kalmak-Ashuu Pass (2,046 ft). Son-Kul is the second largest lake after Issyk-Kul Lake and the largest fresh water lake in Kyrgyzstan. It is surrounded by broad pastures dotted with yurts, grazing cattle, and mountains. The shepherds in the neighboring regions drive their livestock up in the mountains and set a yurt camp where they live during summer months. This region is an excellent place to get familiar with the traditional lifestyle of Kyrgyz nomads. At your yurt camp, you can enjoy horseback riding, an easy hike to the mountains to observe an amazing panorama of Son-Kul Lake and mountains, play with the local children, or participate in a cooking class featuring national cuisine.
Total driving distance: approximately 80 miles.
Meals
Breakfast, Dinner
Lodging
Yurt
FDay 6Overland to Jalal-Abad
The road to Jalal-Abad travels over the spectacular Moldo Ashuu (11,280 ft) and Kok Art (10,496 ft) passes. Along the way, you will see the colorful landscapes of the Naryn River basin. This river is the largest in Kyrgyzstan, flowing further in Uzbekistan as Syr Darya, and feeds into the Aral Sea. Arrive in Jalal-Abad, located in the foothills of the Babash Ata Mountains near the Uzbekistan border, and check-in to your hotel for the night.
Total driving distance: approximately 205 miles.
Meals
Breakfast, Dinner
Lodging
Hotel Roza Park
GDay 7Drive to Osh via Uzgen - Kyrgyzstan
As you make your way to Osh, the southern capital of Kyrgyzstan, you’ll stop at the ancient town of Uzgen, located on the banks of the Kara Daria River in the Fergana Valley. It is thought the city dates back to the fourth century BCE and was an important stop on the Silk Road. Here you’ll see the 2,000-year-old minaret and mausoleum complex, which are well-preserved. The mausoleum complex represents 11th and 12th-century Karakhanid Dynasty architecture and from the minaret, you can get good views of Uzen town and possibly even the snow-covered Pamir Mountains on clear days. Another interesting aspect of this town are the historical rice mills, which process red rice, a specialty used by the locals to make “plov” (pilaf) and you will have a chance to learn more about Uzen rice as well as visit the rice market.
Situated at a crossroad of the ancient Silk Road, at over 3,000 years old, Osh is the oldest city in Kyrgyzstan. The age of the city has been determined by the rock drawings and inscriptions found on the northern slopes of the four-headed Sulayman Mountain, located in the center of Osh. This mountain, also known as “Solomon’s Throne”, is a historical and architectural monument, and still a popular site for Muslims. Osh is also known for its bazaar, one of the oldest of its kind in Central Asia, located in the heart of the city. This 2,000 year old market brings sellers from all over the world. This is a great place to get a glimpse into the fascinating diverse cultures, traditions, and business activities. After spending some time exploring the market, visit the Historical Museum. The museum was carved inside the Sulayman Mountain, Kyrgyzstan’s only UNESCO World Heritage Site in Kyrgyzstan. As one of the largest museums in Kyrgyzstan, its collections include more than 33,000 archeological and ethnographic items, handicrafts, paintings, sculptures, and graphics from the region. Also visit a local bread bakery where you’ll have a chance to learn how to bake “lepyoshka,” a flatbread similar to Indian naan. You’ll even be able to prepare the dough, shape it, decorate it, and bake it yourself. Next, visit the workshop of Zakir Aka, a knife maker who has been making knives by hand for almost 60 years. These knives make a great gift for the cook in your life.
Enjoy dinner with a local family. The host will demonstrate and explain local cooking techniques including Central Asia’s most popular meal, Plov.
Total driving distance: approximately 62 miles.
Meals
Breakfast, Dinner
Lodging
Hotel Sunrise or similar
HDay 8Overland to Khujand - Tajikistan
Today will be a long driving day as you make your way to the Tajikistan border and on to Khujand, but there will be great views and frequent stops along the way.
In Khujand, visit the mausoleum of Sheikh Muslihiddin, the ruler of Khujand during the 12th century as well as a famous poet. Also visit the Historical Museum, which features a set of marble mosaics depicting the life of Alexander the Great as well as traditional Tajiki textiles and carpets. Before retiring to your hotel for the night, visit the Panjshanbe Bazaar, the largest bazaar in Tajikistan where many locals come to do their shopping for fruits, vegetable, breads, and spices as well as household items. This market’s unique architectural style combines classicism, Soviet, and oriental designs.
Total driving distance is about 230 miles.
Meals
Breakfast, Dinner
Lodging
Khujand Grand Hotel or similar
IDay 9Drive to Dushanbe
From Khujand, make the drive through Varzob Gorge and Istiklol Tunnel to Dushanbe, the capital of Tajikistan. The beautiful landscape and views of snowy peaks and passes are spectacular. Stop at the ancient city of Istarafshan, founded by the Persian king Cyrus the Great during the seventh century. Explore the old town including the Kok Gumbaz (Blue Dome) Mosque, beautifully tiled in turquoise, and the Hazrat-i Shoh Mosque to see some fine carvings and painted ceilings. Also see Mug Teppe, where a great fortress once stood.
Continue on to Dushanbe, enjoying amazing views of the Fan Mountain range and the emerald-colored Iskandarkul Lake that reflects off the mountains. Also make a few stops at local villages to get acquainted with the people and watch as they carry on with their daily activities.
Overnight in Dushanbe. Estimated driving distance: 225 miles.
Meals
Breakfast, Dinner
Lodging
Hotel Atlas or similar
JDay 10Dushanbe Tour
Dushanbe, which translates to “Monday” in the Tajik language, is the capital and largest city in Tajikistan. This ancient city dates back to 3,000 years with archeological digs revealing the remains of Greek-Bactrian settlements as well as other medieval settlements. Your exploration of Dushanbe continues this morning with a visit to the Museum of Antiquities, home to the UNESCO protected reclining Buddha – the largest statue of Buddha in Central Asia. See the city’s main religious sites including the main mosque, the Russian Orthodox Church, and the 19th century synagogue. Visit Rudaki park to see the huge statue of Somoni, honoring this Samanid Dynasty founder, and explore the Shah Mansur (Green) Bazaar.
This afternoon, make the short drive out from the town and visit Hissar Fortress, the 18th-century former residence of Bek, a deputy to the Emir of Bukhara. At one time, the fort contained a palace, pool, and garden, but now only the stunning gate and twin towers remain.
Return to your hotel where the rest of the day is free to explore on your own.
Meals
Breakfast, Dinner
Lodging
Hotel Atlas or similar
KDay 11Drive to Termez, Uzbekistan
Today’s drive takes you across the Uzbekistan border to Termez, stopping to see the amazing architectural details of the 12th-century Jarkurgan Minaret on the way. Termez is considered to be a pearl of the East, an ancient city at the crossroads of civilizations and the heart of Central Asia. The city was repeatedly destroyed, but survived and today gives a hospitable welcome to visitors. The city dates back as far as the sixth century and became an important center for Buddhism during the third to the first centuries BCE.
Estimated driving distance: 155 miles.
Meals
Breakfast, Dinner
Lodging
Hotel Meridian or similar
LDay 12Explore Termez
You’ll spend the day exploring Termez, beginning with the Termez Archeological Museum where you will discover ancient archeological findings that date back to the Kushan and Greco-Bactrian Periods. Next, visit the Buddhist Temple complex of Fayaz-Tepe (3-1 century BCE), a U-shaped structure containing a series of corridors, cells, and sanctuaries. There is also a unique 30-foot-high Buddhist dagoba. Your visit concludes at the Kampyrtepa Complex, one of the oldest archeological monuments in Uzbekistan. It was a waypoint for merchants traveling the Great Silk Road where they could rest, ship their goods, and pray before continuing with their journey.
Meals
Breakfast, Dinner
Lodging
Hotel Meridian or similar
MDay 13Overland to Samarkand
Another long driving day takes you to Samarkand, one of the oldest inhabited cities in Uzbekistan. Along the way, stop to visit another ancient city, Shakrisabz, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the birthplace of Tamerlane. Shakrisabz, which means “Green City,” was a center of science and art during Tamerlane’s rule and today you’ll find modern buildings intermingled with ancient structures, bringing a unique blend to the city. A few of the town’s most important sites include the 14th-century Ak-Saray Palace (White Palace), Tamerlane’s summer palace; Kok Bumbaz Mosque (Blue Dome), built by Ulugh Beg in 1437 to honor his father, Shah Rukh; and the Hazrat-i Imam Complex, which contains the Tomb of Jehangir, Tamerlane’s oldest and favorite son.
End the day in Samarkand, the capital of the Tamerlane’s Empire during the 14th-century.
Estimated driving distance: 230 miles.
Meals
Breakfast, Dinner
Lodging
Hotel Grand Samarkand or similar
NDay 14Samarkand
The historic town of Samarkand sits at a crossroad of the Silk Road trade routes and is a melting pot of world cultures. Founded in the seventh century BCE with the name Afrosiab, Samarkand received its most significant development during Tamerlane’s period between the 14th and 15th centuries. Many of the city’s ancient sites have been well-preserved or restored to their former glory. Imagine yourself in the days of Tamerlane as you visit sites significant during his rule. Visit the Gur-e Amir mausoleum of Tamerlane; Registan Square, where people once gathered to hear royal proclamations and view public executions; and Bibi-Khanym Mosque, built in the early 15th century to commemorate Tamerlane’s wife. You will also see the Ulugbek Observatory, named after the grandson of Tamerlane and famous astronomer. A highlight of the day is probably a visit to the Shah-i-Zinda Necropolis, with its 20 beautifully decorated mausoleums where the nobles of the Timurids are buried. Samarkand is also the best place on your journey to learn about traditional crafts, including embroidery, silk weaving, copper engraving, ceramics, carving and painting on wood, which all still flourish today. If you like, spend some of your free time at the local bazaar.
Meals
Breakfast, Dinner
Lodging
Hotel Grand Samarkand or similar
ODay 15Drive to Bukhara
After breakfast, make the drive to Bukhara, location of many UNESCO World Heritage Sites and once an important city on the Silk Route known for scholarship, trade, culture, and religion. It was considered the intellectual center of the Islamic world, and today many of its monuments, mosques and mausoleums, dating back as far back as the ninth century, still remain intact. Your guide will take you to the most beautiful places in the city including Poi Kalon, its Minaret and Mosque, and Madrasah. The Kalon Minaret is known as the “Tower of Death” because for many years criminals were executed here by being thrown from the top. The stunning 16th-century Kalon Mosque’s courtyard contains 288 domes resting on 208 pillars. The Madrasah is known for its two large domes that tower above the surrounding buildings in Bukhara. Also visit the Toki Zargaron Trading Domes and the Magoki Attori Mosque, built on the remains of the Zoroastrian Moh Temple. This temple is an excellent example of Kara-khanid era architecture.
Overnight in Bukhara. Estimated driving distance: 167 miles.
Meals
Breakfast, Dinner
Lodging
Hotel Asia Bukhara or similar
PDay 16Bukhara City Tour
On today’s city tour of Bukhara, you will find extraordinarily inspiring examples of ancient architecture and markets with the chance to talk, shop, and visit with local people whose small shops and enterprises are integrated in the historic areas. Visit Ismail Samanid and Chashma Ayub Mausoleums; Bolo Khauz, an unusually designed mosque built in 1712 for the mother of Ashtarkhanid ruler, Abul Fayud Khan; the fifth-century Ark Citadel and fortress that housed many of Bukhara’s rulers; and Chor Minor, an Indian style Madrasa with four minarets.
This evening, enjoy a folklore show at Nadir Divan Begi Madrasa, one of the oldest and most beautiful madrasas in Bukhara. This is a great opportunity to take part in traditional Uzbeki dance and music over dinner.
Meals
Breakfast, Dinner
Lodging
Hotel Asia Bukhara or similar
QDay 17Drive to Khiva
Today is a long driving day as you make your way to Khiva through the Kyzilkum (Red Sands) Desert, following the route of invaders, nomads, Persian Armies, and ruthless leaders such as Alexander the Great and Genghis Khan. Stops along the way include a picnic lunch on the banks of the Amu Darya (Oxus) River.
Arrive in Khiva, a sleepy town that was the last resting place of caravans before crossing the desert into Persia. It is said that Khiva was founded by Shem, son of Noah, around 2,500 years ago when he discovered a well in the middle of the desert and shouted, “Khi-wa!” which means, “sweet water.” Take a stroll through its narrow streets, peeking into the small courtyards through the wooden carved doors.
Estimated driving distance: 291 miles.
Meals
Breakfast, Dinner
Lodging
Hotel Asia Khiva or similar
RDay 18Khiva City
This ancient town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is like a living city museum with the well preserved atmosphere of an ancient city. You’ll spend the morning exploring its historical structures in the old town including the 17th century Kunya Ark Fortress, the oldest remaining khan’s residence in Khiva; Mohammed Amin Khan Madrasa, a former Muslim University built in the mid-19th-century; the beautifully decorated Islamic Khodja Minaret; the Palvan Kari Complex; and the Rafanek Madrasa.
In the afternoon, continue your exploration with visits to the 16th-century Uch-Avliyo (3 Saints) Mausoleum, dedicated to the three brothers whose fields were saved when they prayed for rain; the unique Juma Mosque, which is quite different from most other Central Asian mosques as it has no high portals, entrance arches or domes, just a one-story building surrounded by a solid blank wall with three doors. However, its prayer hall is quite impressive with pillars that vary in shape and decoration, some dating back to the 10th century; Tash-Hauli Palace Complex, an excellent example of Asian secular architecture of the 19th century and where a cobra still guards the treasures of the last khan; and the 17th century Arab Mohammed Khan Madrasa, one of the oldest madrasas in Khiva.
Everywhere within this old town, you will find fine, ornate wood carvings, an art that has been cultivated in Khiva since ancient times. A highlight of the tour today is the panoramic view over the city from the Akshi Bobo Tower during sunset.
Meals
Breakfast, Dinner
Lodging
Hotel Asia Khiva or similar
SDay 19Flight to Tashkent
After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your flight to Tashkent, the capital of Uzbekistan and the largest city in the country. On arrival, you will be met and taken on a city tour to the ancient squares and buildings and well as the modern section of this 2,000 year old city. Your first stop will be a visit to the Kukeldash Madrasa, which still serves as a Koran School. This madrasa, built in the mid 16th century by the Shaybanid Dynasty rulers, is built from yellow brick. Next, visit the Khast-Imam Square, the religious center of Tashkent, with its beautiful Barak Khan Madrasa. Finish the day out with a visit to Tillya Sheikh (Friday) Mosque, one of the largest mosques in Tashkent and the Kaffal Shashi Mausoleum where you can see the Koran written by the third Caliph Osman (644-656).
Overnight in Tashkent.
Note: If extending to Turkmenistan, you’ll drive to the border into Turkmenistan today.
Meals
Breakfast, Dinner
Lodging
Hotel City Palace or similar
TDay 20Depart Central Asia
After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your onward flight or extend on into Turkmenistan or Moscow.
Meals
Breakfast
Lodging
None
Anticipated plan; actual route and program may vary.
Dates & Price
Dates
Customized for you on your dates, or join a group on the following dates:
Aug 31-Sep 19, 2020
Best Time of Year to Visit
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Ideal
Unpredictable
Not Recommended
Not Offered
Discover the wonders, intrigue, and cultures of the 3,000-year-old Silk Route linking Asia to Europe and Africa. Retrace historic caravan paths that will take you through stunning desert landscapes, into alpine mountains, past sparkling lakes, and into the midst of urban, village, and nomadic communities. Historically one of the world’s most traveled regions, today few travelers venture here. If you can take the time to experience this full journey, you will gain a unique perspective on an important region with multi-layered beauty to uncover. Knowledgeable local guides facilitate your border crossings, handle the details of accommodations, and lead in-depth sightseeing throughout the trip.
Note: On this adventure, you should expect long drives, poor road conditions, border delays, and rustic accommodations in some places.
On arrival in Almaty, you will be met and transferred to your hotel. Almaty is the largest as well as the most culturally diverse city in Kazakhstan.
Depending on your arrival time, after you’ve had a chance to freshen up, you’ll head out with your guide for a walking tour to see architecture iconic of Almaty: beautiful wooden Russian buildings such as the Zenkov Cathedral, the ex-assembly House of Czar Officers, and an early 20th century apparel shop. Also visit 28 Panfilov’s Guardsmen Park and explore the Green Bazaar.
Meals
Breakfast, Dinner
Lodging
Hotel Otrar or Hotel Plaza or similar
BDay 2Almaty City Tour & Almaty Lake
Spend the day getting yourself acquainted with Almaty’s history on a city tour beginning with a visit to the National Museum of History. Next, explore the Republic Square and take a cable car ride to Kok Tobe for panoramic views of the city.
This afternoon, head out for an excursion to the picturesque Big Almaty Lake, whose turquoise surface reflects the surrounding peaks like a mirror. Afterwards, visit the Sunkar Bird Refuge to learn about the birds of prey in the area. Sunkar was originally established to protect the Sakar falcon, which was captured and exported to Arabia for big money. The reserve is now home to 15 different species of birds including owls, eagles, lammergeier, vultures, hawks, and falcons. Though most birds at the center are not able to be re-released, there is a breeding program that releases golden eagles and Sakar falcons back into the wild. You’ll also see a show performed by some of the birds.
Return to your hotel in Almaty for your overnight.
Meals
Breakfast, Dinner
Lodging
Hotel Otrar or similar
CDay 3Drive to Karakol, Kyrgyzstan
After breakfast, head towards the border to the next country, Kyrgyzstan, first stopping to visit the amazing Charyn Canyon. This canyon is considered to be the younger brother of the Grand Canyon, smaller, but similar in appearance. The dramatic erosion made by the Charyn River has created an impressive landscape. This area is also known as the Valley of Castles due to its peculiar bright red color and rock formations that resemble castles. It’s just as spectacular during the day as it is under the starlit skies of the night.
Continue across the border into Kyrgyzstan and proceed with border formalities. Meet your Kyrgyz guide and proceed along the picturesque Karkara Valley, famous for its mountain flowers that attract many bee keepers, to your hotel in Karakol.
Today’s total estimated driving time: 250 miles.
Meals
Breakfast, Dinner
Lodging
Hotel Karagat or similar
DDay 4Karakol to Kochkor Village
The atmosphere of Karakol will take you back a hundred years and give you the feel of Tsarist Russia. You’ll spend some time exploring the city including the old Russian-style homes, built between 1870 and 1910; the 19th-century Russian Orthodox Church; and the Dungan Mosque, built by Chinese architect Chou Seu and skilled Chinese carvers in the early 1900’s.
Afterwards, head out on a drive offering spectacular scenery and frequent stops as you travel to Kochkor Village. Your first stop will be Jeti-Oguz Gorge for the chance to admire the fantastic rock formations made of red sandstone. The local pastures here are used by shepherds grazing their flocks of sheep and herds of horses. Proceed along the south shores of Issyk-Kul, the world’s second largest alpine lake (only smaller than Lake Titicaca in South America) to Kochkor, the biggest producer of traditional Kyrgyz felt handicrafts. When you arrive at Kochkor, you will meet a family that will show you how to make woolen felt carpets. You can even participate in the process! Dinner and overnight will be at a local home stay.
Total driving distance is about 155 miles.
Meals
Breakfast, Dinner
Lodging
Homestay
EDay 5Son-Kul Lake via the Kalmak-Ashuu Pass
The drive today continues to the alpine region of Son-Kul Lake over the Kalmak-Ashuu Pass (2,046 ft). Son-Kul is the second largest lake after Issyk-Kul Lake and the largest fresh water lake in Kyrgyzstan. It is surrounded by broad pastures dotted with yurts, grazing cattle, and mountains. The shepherds in the neighboring regions drive their livestock up in the mountains and set a yurt camp where they live during summer months. This region is an excellent place to get familiar with the traditional lifestyle of Kyrgyz nomads. At your yurt camp, you can enjoy horseback riding, an easy hike to the mountains to observe an amazing panorama of Son-Kul Lake and mountains, play with the local children, or participate in a cooking class featuring national cuisine.
Total driving distance: approximately 80 miles.
Meals
Breakfast, Dinner
Lodging
Yurt
FDay 6Overland to Jalal-Abad
The road to Jalal-Abad travels over the spectacular Moldo Ashuu (11,280 ft) and Kok Art (10,496 ft) passes. Along the way, you will see the colorful landscapes of the Naryn River basin. This river is the largest in Kyrgyzstan, flowing further in Uzbekistan as Syr Darya, and feeds into the Aral Sea. Arrive in Jalal-Abad, located in the foothills of the Babash Ata Mountains near the Uzbekistan border, and check-in to your hotel for the night.
Total driving distance: approximately 205 miles.
Meals
Breakfast, Dinner
Lodging
Hotel Roza Park
GDay 7Drive to Osh via Uzgen - Kyrgyzstan
As you make your way to Osh, the southern capital of Kyrgyzstan, you’ll stop at the ancient town of Uzgen, located on the banks of the Kara Daria River in the Fergana Valley. It is thought the city dates back to the fourth century BCE and was an important stop on the Silk Road. Here you’ll see the 2,000-year-old minaret and mausoleum complex, which are well-preserved. The mausoleum complex represents 11th and 12th-century Karakhanid Dynasty architecture and from the minaret, you can get good views of Uzen town and possibly even the snow-covered Pamir Mountains on clear days. Another interesting aspect of this town are the historical rice mills, which process red rice, a specialty used by the locals to make “plov” (pilaf) and you will have a chance to learn more about Uzen rice as well as visit the rice market.
Situated at a crossroad of the ancient Silk Road, at over 3,000 years old, Osh is the oldest city in Kyrgyzstan. The age of the city has been determined by the rock drawings and inscriptions found on the northern slopes of the four-headed Sulayman Mountain, located in the center of Osh. This mountain, also known as “Solomon’s Throne”, is a historical and architectural monument, and still a popular site for Muslims. Osh is also known for its bazaar, one of the oldest of its kind in Central Asia, located in the heart of the city. This 2,000 year old market brings sellers from all over the world. This is a great place to get a glimpse into the fascinating diverse cultures, traditions, and business activities. After spending some time exploring the market, visit the Historical Museum. The museum was carved inside the Sulayman Mountain, Kyrgyzstan’s only UNESCO World Heritage Site in Kyrgyzstan. As one of the largest museums in Kyrgyzstan, its collections include more than 33,000 archeological and ethnographic items, handicrafts, paintings, sculptures, and graphics from the region. Also visit a local bread bakery where you’ll have a chance to learn how to bake “lepyoshka,” a flatbread similar to Indian naan. You’ll even be able to prepare the dough, shape it, decorate it, and bake it yourself. Next, visit the workshop of Zakir Aka, a knife maker who has been making knives by hand for almost 60 years. These knives make a great gift for the cook in your life.
Enjoy dinner with a local family. The host will demonstrate and explain local cooking techniques including Central Asia’s most popular meal, Plov.
Total driving distance: approximately 62 miles.
Meals
Breakfast, Dinner
Lodging
Hotel Sunrise or similar
HDay 8Overland to Khujand - Tajikistan
Today will be a long driving day as you make your way to the Tajikistan border and on to Khujand, but there will be great views and frequent stops along the way.
In Khujand, visit the mausoleum of Sheikh Muslihiddin, the ruler of Khujand during the 12th century as well as a famous poet. Also visit the Historical Museum, which features a set of marble mosaics depicting the life of Alexander the Great as well as traditional Tajiki textiles and carpets. Before retiring to your hotel for the night, visit the Panjshanbe Bazaar, the largest bazaar in Tajikistan where many locals come to do their shopping for fruits, vegetable, breads, and spices as well as household items. This market’s unique architectural style combines classicism, Soviet, and oriental designs.
Total driving distance is about 230 miles.
Meals
Breakfast, Dinner
Lodging
Khujand Grand Hotel or similar
IDay 9Drive to Dushanbe
From Khujand, make the drive through Varzob Gorge and Istiklol Tunnel to Dushanbe, the capital of Tajikistan. The beautiful landscape and views of snowy peaks and passes are spectacular. Stop at the ancient city of Istarafshan, founded by the Persian king Cyrus the Great during the seventh century. Explore the old town including the Kok Gumbaz (Blue Dome) Mosque, beautifully tiled in turquoise, and the Hazrat-i Shoh Mosque to see some fine carvings and painted ceilings. Also see Mug Teppe, where a great fortress once stood.
Continue on to Dushanbe, enjoying amazing views of the Fan Mountain range and the emerald-colored Iskandarkul Lake that reflects off the mountains. Also make a few stops at local villages to get acquainted with the people and watch as they carry on with their daily activities.
Overnight in Dushanbe. Estimated driving distance: 225 miles.
Meals
Breakfast, Dinner
Lodging
Hotel Atlas or similar
JDay 10Dushanbe Tour
Dushanbe, which translates to “Monday” in the Tajik language, is the capital and largest city in Tajikistan. This ancient city dates back to 3,000 years with archeological digs revealing the remains of Greek-Bactrian settlements as well as other medieval settlements. Your exploration of Dushanbe continues this morning with a visit to the Museum of Antiquities, home to the UNESCO protected reclining Buddha – the largest statue of Buddha in Central Asia. See the city’s main religious sites including the main mosque, the Russian Orthodox Church, and the 19th century synagogue. Visit Rudaki park to see the huge statue of Somoni, honoring this Samanid Dynasty founder, and explore the Shah Mansur (Green) Bazaar.
This afternoon, make the short drive out from the town and visit Hissar Fortress, the 18th-century former residence of Bek, a deputy to the Emir of Bukhara. At one time, the fort contained a palace, pool, and garden, but now only the stunning gate and twin towers remain.
Return to your hotel where the rest of the day is free to explore on your own.
Meals
Breakfast, Dinner
Lodging
Hotel Atlas or similar
KDay 11Drive to Termez, Uzbekistan
Today’s drive takes you across the Uzbekistan border to Termez, stopping to see the amazing architectural details of the 12th-century Jarkurgan Minaret on the way. Termez is considered to be a pearl of the East, an ancient city at the crossroads of civilizations and the heart of Central Asia. The city was repeatedly destroyed, but survived and today gives a hospitable welcome to visitors. The city dates back as far as the sixth century and became an important center for Buddhism during the third to the first centuries BCE.
Estimated driving distance: 155 miles.
Meals
Breakfast, Dinner
Lodging
Hotel Meridian or similar
LDay 12Explore Termez
You’ll spend the day exploring Termez, beginning with the Termez Archeological Museum where you will discover ancient archeological findings that date back to the Kushan and Greco-Bactrian Periods. Next, visit the Buddhist Temple complex of Fayaz-Tepe (3-1 century BCE), a U-shaped structure containing a series of corridors, cells, and sanctuaries. There is also a unique 30-foot-high Buddhist dagoba. Your visit concludes at the Kampyrtepa Complex, one of the oldest archeological monuments in Uzbekistan. It was a waypoint for merchants traveling the Great Silk Road where they could rest, ship their goods, and pray before continuing with their journey.
Meals
Breakfast, Dinner
Lodging
Hotel Meridian or similar
MDay 13Overland to Samarkand
Another long driving day takes you to Samarkand, one of the oldest inhabited cities in Uzbekistan. Along the way, stop to visit another ancient city, Shakrisabz, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the birthplace of Tamerlane. Shakrisabz, which means “Green City,” was a center of science and art during Tamerlane’s rule and today you’ll find modern buildings intermingled with ancient structures, bringing a unique blend to the city. A few of the town’s most important sites include the 14th-century Ak-Saray Palace (White Palace), Tamerlane’s summer palace; Kok Bumbaz Mosque (Blue Dome), built by Ulugh Beg in 1437 to honor his father, Shah Rukh; and the Hazrat-i Imam Complex, which contains the Tomb of Jehangir, Tamerlane’s oldest and favorite son.
End the day in Samarkand, the capital of the Tamerlane’s Empire during the 14th-century.
Estimated driving distance: 230 miles.
Meals
Breakfast, Dinner
Lodging
Hotel Grand Samarkand or similar
NDay 14Samarkand
The historic town of Samarkand sits at a crossroad of the Silk Road trade routes and is a melting pot of world cultures. Founded in the seventh century BCE with the name Afrosiab, Samarkand received its most significant development during Tamerlane’s period between the 14th and 15th centuries. Many of the city’s ancient sites have been well-preserved or restored to their former glory. Imagine yourself in the days of Tamerlane as you visit sites significant during his rule. Visit the Gur-e Amir mausoleum of Tamerlane; Registan Square, where people once gathered to hear royal proclamations and view public executions; and Bibi-Khanym Mosque, built in the early 15th century to commemorate Tamerlane’s wife. You will also see the Ulugbek Observatory, named after the grandson of Tamerlane and famous astronomer. A highlight of the day is probably a visit to the Shah-i-Zinda Necropolis, with its 20 beautifully decorated mausoleums where the nobles of the Timurids are buried. Samarkand is also the best place on your journey to learn about traditional crafts, including embroidery, silk weaving, copper engraving, ceramics, carving and painting on wood, which all still flourish today. If you like, spend some of your free time at the local bazaar.
Meals
Breakfast, Dinner
Lodging
Hotel Grand Samarkand or similar
ODay 15Drive to Bukhara
After breakfast, make the drive to Bukhara, location of many UNESCO World Heritage Sites and once an important city on the Silk Route known for scholarship, trade, culture, and religion. It was considered the intellectual center of the Islamic world, and today many of its monuments, mosques and mausoleums, dating back as far back as the ninth century, still remain intact. Your guide will take you to the most beautiful places in the city including Poi Kalon, its Minaret and Mosque, and Madrasah. The Kalon Minaret is known as the “Tower of Death” because for many years criminals were executed here by being thrown from the top. The stunning 16th-century Kalon Mosque’s courtyard contains 288 domes resting on 208 pillars. The Madrasah is known for its two large domes that tower above the surrounding buildings in Bukhara. Also visit the Toki Zargaron Trading Domes and the Magoki Attori Mosque, built on the remains of the Zoroastrian Moh Temple. This temple is an excellent example of Kara-khanid era architecture.
Overnight in Bukhara. Estimated driving distance: 167 miles.
Meals
Breakfast, Dinner
Lodging
Hotel Asia Bukhara or similar
PDay 16Bukhara City Tour
On today’s city tour of Bukhara, you will find extraordinarily inspiring examples of ancient architecture and markets with the chance to talk, shop, and visit with local people whose small shops and enterprises are integrated in the historic areas. Visit Ismail Samanid and Chashma Ayub Mausoleums; Bolo Khauz, an unusually designed mosque built in 1712 for the mother of Ashtarkhanid ruler, Abul Fayud Khan; the fifth-century Ark Citadel and fortress that housed many of Bukhara’s rulers; and Chor Minor, an Indian style Madrasa with four minarets.
This evening, enjoy a folklore show at Nadir Divan Begi Madrasa, one of the oldest and most beautiful madrasas in Bukhara. This is a great opportunity to take part in traditional Uzbeki dance and music over dinner.
Meals
Breakfast, Dinner
Lodging
Hotel Asia Bukhara or similar
QDay 17Drive to Khiva
Today is a long driving day as you make your way to Khiva through the Kyzilkum (Red Sands) Desert, following the route of invaders, nomads, Persian Armies, and ruthless leaders such as Alexander the Great and Genghis Khan. Stops along the way include a picnic lunch on the banks of the Amu Darya (Oxus) River.
Arrive in Khiva, a sleepy town that was the last resting place of caravans before crossing the desert into Persia. It is said that Khiva was founded by Shem, son of Noah, around 2,500 years ago when he discovered a well in the middle of the desert and shouted, “Khi-wa!” which means, “sweet water.” Take a stroll through its narrow streets, peeking into the small courtyards through the wooden carved doors.
Estimated driving distance: 291 miles.
Meals
Breakfast, Dinner
Lodging
Hotel Asia Khiva or similar
RDay 18Khiva City
This ancient town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is like a living city museum with the well preserved atmosphere of an ancient city. You’ll spend the morning exploring its historical structures in the old town including the 17th century Kunya Ark Fortress, the oldest remaining khan’s residence in Khiva; Mohammed Amin Khan Madrasa, a former Muslim University built in the mid-19th-century; the beautifully decorated Islamic Khodja Minaret; the Palvan Kari Complex; and the Rafanek Madrasa.
In the afternoon, continue your exploration with visits to the 16th-century Uch-Avliyo (3 Saints) Mausoleum, dedicated to the three brothers whose fields were saved when they prayed for rain; the unique Juma Mosque, which is quite different from most other Central Asian mosques as it has no high portals, entrance arches or domes, just a one-story building surrounded by a solid blank wall with three doors. However, its prayer hall is quite impressive with pillars that vary in shape and decoration, some dating back to the 10th century; Tash-Hauli Palace Complex, an excellent example of Asian secular architecture of the 19th century and where a cobra still guards the treasures of the last khan; and the 17th century Arab Mohammed Khan Madrasa, one of the oldest madrasas in Khiva.
Everywhere within this old town, you will find fine, ornate wood carvings, an art that has been cultivated in Khiva since ancient times. A highlight of the tour today is the panoramic view over the city from the Akshi Bobo Tower during sunset.
Meals
Breakfast, Dinner
Lodging
Hotel Asia Khiva or similar
SDay 19Flight to Tashkent
After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your flight to Tashkent, the capital of Uzbekistan and the largest city in the country. On arrival, you will be met and taken on a city tour to the ancient squares and buildings and well as the modern section of this 2,000 year old city. Your first stop will be a visit to the Kukeldash Madrasa, which still serves as a Koran School. This madrasa, built in the mid 16th century by the Shaybanid Dynasty rulers, is built from yellow brick. Next, visit the Khast-Imam Square, the religious center of Tashkent, with its beautiful Barak Khan Madrasa. Finish the day out with a visit to Tillya Sheikh (Friday) Mosque, one of the largest mosques in Tashkent and the Kaffal Shashi Mausoleum where you can see the Koran written by the third Caliph Osman (644-656).
Overnight in Tashkent.
Note: If extending to Turkmenistan, you’ll drive to the border into Turkmenistan today.
Meals
Breakfast, Dinner
Lodging
Hotel City Palace or similar
TDay 20Depart Central Asia
After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your onward flight or extend on into Turkmenistan or Moscow.
Meals
Breakfast
Lodging
None
Anticipated plan; actual route and program may vary.
IMPORTANT NOTE: Please be aware that the tourism infrastructure is not up to Western standards. Therefore, most accommodations, even 4*, will not be the same as what we are used to here in the U.S. Also, keep in mind that road conditions and travel can sometimes be rough, and vehicles are more prone to break-downs. We will do our best to ensure a pleasant experience, and you will have some of the best cultural encounters and scenery possible, but please try to have an open mind as you embark on this adventure.
The price includes Visa support in Uzbekistan, Turkmenistan, and Tajikistan; Visas are not required in Kyrgyzstan for US citizens and no visa is required in Kazakhstan up to 15 days of travel.
Pricing and Payment
Reservations are accepted and confirmed after we receive a non-refundable booking deposit and a Traveler Profile Form signed by each adult on the trip as well as by the guardian for each child on the trip, and if space is available. For most group departures, the booking deposit is $500 per person per trip, though for some trips it may be more, as noted in the trip description.
The minimum booking deposit requirement for custom trips is $800 per person, and this deposit is non-refundable. A trip-planning fee of $250 per itinerary is also charged to cover costs of preparing itinerary proposals for custom trips. This fee is credited to the cost of the trip, but is nonrefundable if you do not take the trip. Custom travel during holiday seasons may require a deposit prior to trip confirmation.
An invoice for the total estimated cost of your itinerary will be sent with your reservation confirmation. For both group departures and custom trips, a second deposit of $1,000 per person is due 120 days prior to departure or at the time of booking for reservations made fewer than 120 days before departure. The balance as shown on your invoice is due 60 days prior to departure regardless of whether extensions or other arrangements are pending. Although we do our best to avoid increasing prices after we receive your deposit, in some cases it may be necessary to adjust pricing even after we receive payment to allow for changes in group size, rooming status, currency exchange rate fluctuations, fuel surcharges and other circumstances attendant to international travel. Late payments may jeopardize confirmation of your itinerary and in some cases may result in additional fees. If we have not received final payment 30 days prior to departure your reservation may be canceled and subject to our Cancellation & Refund Policy stated below.
We accept payments by Visa, MasterCard, American Express, or check drawn on a U.S. bank account. Payment for airfare is required at the time of ticketing. Discounts that may be available for some trips are not available toward bookings made through travel agencies.
Late Signups
Early reservations are encouraged! Some trips and flights fill several months before departure. We can confirm your space on a trip once we receive your deposit and signed Reservation Form. We try, but cannot guarantee, to accept late signups. In the event that we are able to accept reservations fewer than 60 days before a trip departure, additional fees of $500 or more may apply to cover administrative costs necessary to expedite your reservation confirmation and transmit your departure materials. For reservations made fewer than 60 days before departure, full payment will be due at the time of booking.
Itinerary Changes
We understand that circumstances arise that lead you to inquire about changes to your itinerary, and aim to satisfy your requests. Once activities and accommodations have been confirmed, there will be a $50 change fee, in addition to the difference in costs for the services booked. When changes are requested within one week of departure, the change fee is $100. For changes requested after a trip has begun, the change fee is $200.
Cancellations & Refunds
If you must cancel before departure, you may request a refund according to the following schedule. Some trips require additional non-refundable payments as noted in the trip description or in the trip itinerary.
Days Prior to Departure
Cancellation Penalty
90 or more
Non-refundable booking deposit and trip planning fee, if applicable
45-89
30% of total land costs
31-44
75% of total land costs
0-30
100% of total land costs
Please note: cancellation of airfare, other transit, and lodging is subject to the policies of the individual carriers or providers and are not included in the schedule above. Additional cancellation fees are the responsibility of the traveler. We strongly recommend that all travelers purchase travel insurance that includes coverage for trip cancellation or interruption which may reimburse you for cancellation penalties and extra trip expenses should a circumstance covered by the policy force you to cancel or interrupt your trip.
Departure is defined as the date on which travelers will leave their home state, province or city, or the trip departure date as indicated on the trip itinerary, whichever comes first. Cancellation date will be considered the date that we receive written notification of your intent to cancel.
Payments due at the time of cancellation remain the responsibility of the client. No partial refunds are possible for unused hotel rooms, air or land travel, trekking days, or other sight-seeing arrangements included in the land cost.
In the event Journeys International cancels a trip, for any reason, all money for services described in the trip description, less airline ticket cancellation fees, will be refunded.
Air Fares
We can help you to secure air travel arrangements to correspond with land travel booked through Journeys International. We work with an airfare consolidator to assist in booking the flights that suit your needs. Journeys International may charge a ticketing fee for this service. For group departures, if you prefer to fly on dates other than those listed as trip dates, or if you arrive at your destination other than at the group arrival time, then you may incur an additional fee to cover the separate transfer, contingency, and coordination costs which frequently arise from arrival and departure on flights different from our regular bookings. We will let you know about these fees ahead of time, if they apply. If you must change your air routing after ticketing, there is a charge of $50 per change, in addition to change or cancellation charges levied by the airline.
If you decide to make your own flight arrangements, you must provide Journeys International with a complete copy of your itinerary showing departure and arrival flights and times. You should plan to arrange your own air travel if you are using mileage credit or originating outside North America, but please be in touch with our office before you finalize ticketing so that we can help you to coordinate the correct arrival and departure dates and times.
Transfers Between Trips
You may transfer between some trips upon written request. More than 90 days before departure, the deposit transfer fee is $100 per person plus any cancellation fees charged by hotels or ground service providers. Less than 90 days before departure, full cancellation penalties from the original trip apply. In the event that Journeys International cancels a trip, you may transfer the full amount of your land payments to another trip without penalty.
Expenses Covered
Normally, our stated land costs include the cost of all guides, leaders, permits obtained after arrival, lodging accommodations, food and entry fees as specified, and all surface transportation associated with the planned itinerary. We do our best to avoid increasing prices after receipt of your deposit, but, rarely, factors beyond our control might require us to change our prices without prior notice, even after you have signed up.
Expenses Not Covered
Costs not included in the price may include: meals not indicated as included in itineraries; meals prior to arrival in starting cities; transfers, if not arriving or departing on the scheduled group flights; soft drinks, bottled water, and alcoholic beverages; medical expenses, costs of hospitalization, or evacuation from remote areas; laundry; airport departure taxes not included on your airline ticket; accommodations en route to starting cities; visas; airfares; gratuities; and insurance.
If a trip must be extended or an itinerary modified due to weather, road conditions, labor interruption, lack of transportation, political or civil disputes, medical emergency, or other causes beyond our control, then the traveler may incur additional costs that are not included in the trip price. We strongly recommend that all travelers obtain travel insurance to cover these risks.
Group-Sized Pricing & Group Minimums
Many trips are guaranteed to depart at prices published on our website with as few as two participants. However, in some cases it is necessary to adjust prices to reflect smaller group sizes. We do everything we can to make a trip operate as planned even with a single participant. Additional costs for small groups amounts vary from trip to trip. Final decision to cancel a trip due to insufficient signups is made 30 days prior to departure.
Environmental Stewardship
Journeys International believes that we have a responsibility to protect the earth for future generations of travelers. International tourism may be responsible for up to eight percent of annual worldwide emissions of greenhouse gasses. Journeys International advocates that adventure travelers who make environmentally-conscious choices when selecting their destinations and activities should also make the environmentally-conscious choice to offset the carbon footprint of their travel to compensate for their personal contributions to global climate change. Every Journeys International trip invoice includes an optional donation to the Earth Preservation Fund’s carbon offset program to be used to purchase and permanently retire certified carbon credits to offset the carbon footprints of Journeys’ travelers. The Earth Preservation Fund purchases carbon credits that have been certified under a reliable third-party standard. Travelers who choose to make this donation will receive a receipt for 501(c)3 tax deduction. There is no penalty for opting out of this donation.
Pre-Departure Services
We look forward to working with you! After we receive your deposit we will send you a pre-departure information packet containing things like medical and immunization information, visa and other permit forms, a recommendation for travel insurance, packing checklist, reading list, cross-cultural information, and an initial invoice for the balance due. If you would like, we can also book your extended land travel arrangements for before and after your trip. About 2-3 weeks before departure, we will send you a final departure packet including last minute reminders and local contact information for your destination. We send some of our materials by mail, so if you are leaving home before the scheduled trip departure date, please let us know how we can best reach you so that you will receive your materials prior to your departure.
Please call our office at any time if you have questions about your trip or for additional information.
Lodging Accommodations
Lodging accommodations are usually double occupancy in hotel rooms, tents, or other facilities as described or noted in trip itineraries. Please contact our office to discuss pricing and availability of alternative accommodations. We try to honor specific requests for lodging, but in some cases we may have to book and confirm equivalent standard accommodations. If you are traveling alone but would prefer a roommate, then let us know! We are often able to match solo travelers. If a roommate is not available or if you prefer single accommodation, then you must pay the Single Supplement, if one applies. On some trips, it is not possible to guarantee single accommodations.
Fitness to Travel
Good physical and mental health are essential for the enjoyment of Journeys International’s trips. In many cases participants travel in rugged areas remote from modern medical facilities. Good physical conditioning is recommended as preparation for all trips, especially those involving trekking. Most trips require some walking. By paying the booking deposit and signing the Reservation Form, the traveler certifies that he/she is fit for rigorous travel and does not have any physical, mental, or other condition that would create a hazard for him/herself or other travelers. It is essential that any participant with a medical condition requiring regular treatment or which may be affected by vigorous activity, prolonged travel, high altitude, heat, cold, natural phenomena, or particular foods, notify Journeys International in writing prior to booking.
We assume no responsibility for medical care and we cannot guarantee meeting special dietary requirements or vegetarian needs. Participants may be required to furnish a physician’s statement of good health. Journeys International’s or the individual trip leader’s or guide’s judgment shall provide the ultimate determination of an individual’s fitness to embark upon, or to continue, a trip. Journeys International reserves the right to refuse reservations or deny participation prior to departure of anyone whom it deems unsuitable for a trip. Once a trip has been confirmed, medical circumstances will not be considered as exceptions to our cancellation policy. All participants must be covered by a current major medical insurance policy for the duration of their trip. Proof of such coverage may be requested.
Duration 20 Days
The number of days, or duration, in a destination corresponds with the itinerary as published. This is the time period covered by the land cost.
Group Size 2 - 12
The stated range indicates minimum required for guaranteed departure and maximum accepted on the scheduled dates. Exceptions can often be made for private departures.
Comfort Level
Simple
Comfortable and especially personal. Small to mid-sized guesthouses, typically with private bath. Note that two nights will be spent in a basic yurt with separate toilet facilities.
Activity Level
Active
Why Journeys International
Our purpose is to understand the journey you are on – not just the vacation you want to take – and to help you on your way.
We are here to help you plan the trip that will move you closer to your goals and help you fulfill your dreams.
We are here to help you plan a more inspiring, more provocative, more breathtaking, more transformational adventure.
We say “adventure” and not “trip” because, for us, a trip is just going someplace else, but an adventure is an experience that takes you someplace beyond your comfort zone – and therefore maximizes the potential for wonder, discovery, and potentially transformation.
Why trust Journeys to plan that kind of experience with you?
Journeys is an award-winning industry-leader with more than 40 years in business planning creative and thoughtful adventures in interesting places around the world
Our staff is professional and devoted, with adventure specialists in Ann Arbor and guides in the field who take pride in traveler satisfaction; many stay with us for decades
Our Ecological Code of Ethics has long stood as a model for others, and our Earth Preservation Fund puts our money where our mouth is
We go to the farthest corners of the earth – you’ll see some pretty remote destinations on our list, and if you want to challenge us with something new, we’ll likely be willing (though we’ll make sure you know if we’ve never experienced it firsthand)
We’re real people like you, starting with the real person who will answer the phone, right through the owner, Robin Pollak, who you can talk to any time you want (or even her parents, Joan & Will Weber, who started the company!)
We ask lots of questions and get to know you as well as possible to we can design the best experience for YOU
Your unique itinerary includes sites, accommodations, activities, and meetings with people hand selected for personal goals, passions, interests and abilities
Your personal adventure specialist stays with you from trip planning through departure to answer all your questions – promptly – and make sure every detail is handled so you are well prepared for your trip
Our partners on the ground in your destination will welcome you as a friend of a friend; we’ve been working with many of them for ages
We’re open and clear, and offer a complete picture of what you can expect while traveling. We don’t want to make an easy sale; we want to make an honest one.
24-hour emergency phone support while traveling
We’ll be excited to hear about the trip when you get back, and take all feedback seriously
Our travelers come back again and again, for five, ten, or more adventures — and they trust us enough to send their friends to us, too
We love what we do, and we love sharing our common passion with you.
Match the trip’s intensity to your ability and motivation.
Gentle
Easy walking, with opportunities for low-key physical activity.
Active
Energetic exploration with optional day hikes, leisurely cycling, or light canoeing.
Vigorous
Day-long active excursions and options for demanding activity in varied environments.
Challenging
Strenuous hiking or other intense activity that may be at high altitude or over rough terrain.
Demanding
Multi-day trekking and other activities requiring endurance or strength. Steep trails. No technical expertise necessary.
Comfort Level
Choose accommodations and amenities that fit your personal style
Simple
Our most natural accommodations. Bath facilities often shared, sometimes rustic.
Delightful
Comfortable and especially personal. Small to mid-sized lodges, typically with private bath.
Superior
Lodges and hotels with additional amenities, refined artistry, or extra-special settings.
Deluxe
Exclusive or luxury lodges, hotels, or safari camps with fine dining options.
Uncommon
The most indulgent accommodations arranged specially for private trips.
Single Supplement
The single supplement is applicable if a roommate is not available or if single accommodation is specifically requested. While single accommodation is not available on all trips, we will try and honor this request whenever possible.