2025 DEPARTURE

23 DAYS |22 NIGHTS 

$14,990.00* AUD per person Double or Twin Share
$1,715.00* AUD Single Supplement

15 August to 6 September 2025
SOLD OUT!

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER YOUR INTEREST FOR 2026

This is an extra special and extended journey through ‘The Stans’ with a 23-day epic itinerary

If you are interested in the exploration of these incredible Places, their People and their fascinating Tales come and join G&T as we follow in the footsteps of Genghis Khan and EXPERIENCE the following:

We will connect with the local nomadic families as we are invited into their homes to learn all about their Culture, nomadic Lifestyle, and local ancient Traditions. We will learn as we participate in the creation of some of their favourite local recipes and get to enjoy the fruits of our labour.

We will delight in the unique Architecture, where the turquoise colour and intricate design of a bygone era still stands proud today.

We will listen and be captivated by the many tales that illustrate the depth of knowledge shared between the peoples. Their connections continue to shine through today from their various religions and beliefs.

We will witness the tapestry of arts and crafts of the trading nations by following the old Caravan Trade Routes where they traded their wares of silk, carpets, fabric and paper.

We will be inspired by the hard-working traditional yurt makers.

We will be amazed to see the skilful Eagle Hunters and the Kyrgyz Horsemen.

We will wander around in the colourful bazars and local markets where the stalls are vibrant and buzzing.

We will admire the many spectacular landscapes including the picturesque rugged snowcapped mountains, large alpine freshwater lakes, the endless vistas that display the full spectrum within the canyons and gorges amongst lush green valleys.

We will take the time as the sun sets to enjoy some evening strolls amongst the ancient fortresses in search of the best rooftop restaurants to gain a bird’s eye view of the street scenes below.

We will enjoy some free time to wander and explore independently.

We will tantalize our tastebuds as we search out the best restaurants locally and dine out rather than include too many hotel dinners which can be very repetitive.

There are some great tour companies out there but they all tend to follow the same path and the same style. We are not re-inventing the wheel but feel that our ‘product’ has some very distinct differences and some personal touches that make our travel experience quite unique. For our existing G&T Clubbers, you know all of this but for the benefit of our new comers and of course your immediate family and friends who we invite to join you please see below how we differ.

G&T always develop an exciting itinerary with natural flow to maximise our time and experience. We choose our tour dates with regard for the best possible weather across the 4 different countries. With consideration of the size of the region it is important to take advantage of 2 internal flights and a high-speed train to minimise too many 1 night stops.

In typical ‘G&T’ style we have chosen some fantastic accomodation that enhances our experience in this part of the world. We have chosen some luxury hotels, some boutique hotels, and some regional guesthouses (best available in the area) which allows us to meet the local people. The location, style and proximity to the action will be very evident. It is important to us that when we have free time you can easily wander the local area.

Food is an important part of why we travel so we always like to include some traditional meals in the itinerary. We have decided not to include too many evening meals in the city hotels as they can be quite repetitive. However we have included all meals when we stay in our regional guesthouses because that becomes part of the experience. Dining out also gives us the opportunity to see the city by night.

G&T always host every Club Tour. This gives you something no one else can match. We will be with you the entire time, assisting with your needs and looking after you personally. On top of that we will always employ our own National Tour Guides along with localised city guides to better understand the local areas.

G&T most importantly make sure that the product is ‘Great Value’. Not necessarily the cheapest but well worth the few extra dollars to ensure an amazing experience!

Many of our accommodations are small and intimate so we secure single room occupancy for our solo travellers, the group size may decrease from the maximum 18 guests.

CENTRAL ASIA 2025 ITINERARY

Almaty Arrival transfer – Airport to Hotel

WELCOME TO KAZAKHSTAN.

Kazakhstan is the world’s ninth-biggest country and the most economically advanced of all ‘The Stans’. The biggest city, Almaty ‘the apple city’ (the humble fruit originated here) is almost reminiscent of Europe with its leafy and sophisticated avenues full of fantastic restaurants and cafes. It is a vibrant city nestled at the foothills of the majestic Tien Shan Mountains and known for its rich history, stunning landscapes and the gateway to the spectacular Charyn Canyon.

ACCOMMODATION – 2 nights

Kazzhol Park Hotel (or similar)

MEALS – None

SIGHTSEEING: Almaty

Central State Museum, Republic Square, Central Mosque and the Green Market, Independence monument in Republic Square, Museum of National musical instruments, Zenkov Cathedral Kazakhstan’s nearest (albeit distant) relative to St Basil’s Cathedral in Moscow. Then Kok Tobe Hill (green hill) 1100mtrs above the city.Excursion – Visit Birds of Prey Nursery and Show.

Kazzhol Park Hotel (or similar)

MEALS – Breakfast

SIGHTSEEING: Charyn Canyon National Park ‘the little brother to the Grand Canyon’ and UNESCO World Heritage listed.

As we leave the city behind, we head to the breathtaking Charyn Canyon which is approximately 150 km long, and in places up to 300 metres deep. The beautiful natural formations often appear that they could be manmade. They have been sculpted by the wind, water and sun over millions of years, Nature at its best! We will discover the canyon on foot with a very accessible stairway down to the Canyon of around 200 metres. The remaining distance to the river side can be done by walking both ways, by walking one way then taking an ecotaxi back or an eco-taxi both ways. You can choose. We will find the perfect spot to enjoy our picnic lunch today. After exploring Charyn Canyon we continue by road to Kegan (the Kazakhstan/ Kyrgyzstan border) where we will say goodbye to our Kazakh Escort.

After completing immigration formalities for both nations and entering Kyrgyzstan, we will meet our Kyrgyz Escort who will be waiting to transfer us to our Karkara Yurt Camp. Tonight, we get to experience life as a nomad as we sleep comfortably in a traditional Yurt. This will be a fun and amazing experience for us all to share.

WELCOME TO KYRGYZSTAN.

Kyrgyzstan is a nation defined by its natural beauty. Joyously unspoilt mountain scapes, stark craggy ridges and rolling summer pastures are brought to life by the seminomadic, yurt-dwelling shepherds.

ACCOMMODATION – 1 night

Traditional Yurt Camp – Yurt accommodation is setup for 2 people per yurt and solo travellers may have to share just for that 1 night. (same sex only)

MEALS – Breakfast / Picnic Lunch / Dinner

SIGHTSEEING: Reina Kench Farm

At Reina Kench Farm, located in the village Tepke, you will enjoy a ranch tour and presentation at the farm. The famous Kyrgyz horses are bred here at the ranch along with cattle, sheep, goats, chicken and even frogs. There is a pond with frogs offering ‘frog therapy’.

OPTIONAL: Horse riding, fishing, local cuisine cooking classes, archery, walking on the riverbank, tea tasting, master class on yurt making and more (all at an extra cost). After we have enjoyed our farm experience, we make our way to our accommodation for a 2-night stop.

ACCOMMODATION – 2 nights

My Hotel (or similar)

MEALS – Breakfast / Lunch

SIGHTSEEING: Karakol

We will discover the area and visit the old Chinese Mosque, which was constructed in 1907 and interestingly in the style of a Chinese temple. The local Dungans built it in this Kyrgyz traditional style using wood feathering instead of metal nail construction. Karakol is also famous for the striking Holy Trinity Orthodox Cathedral, completed in 1895. We will see the Museum of Nikolai Przhevalskii, which features the expeditions in Central Asia and West China of this famous Russian scientist and explorer of the 19th Century.

This afternoon we get to connect with the locals as we visit a local Dungan family home and experience a home-cooked dinner with the family. Over dinner we will learn the fascinating story of why this Muslim Chinese group immigrated to the region 140 years ago, how they made the area their home, and how families today still keep their traditional culture and cuisine alive.

My Hotel (or similar)

MEALS – Breakfast / Dinner

SIGHTSEEING: Djeti Oguz Canyon and Skazka Canyon

This morning, we head to Djeti Oguz Canyon, which means ‘Seven Bulls’. This picturesque gorge has 7 red rock formations that are covered with forests of Tien Shan spruces. The surrounding scenery is rather special, and we will have the opportunity to walk up the main gorge enjoying the views along the winding Djeti Oguz mountain river.

After our morning walk, we will enjoy a delicious lunch in another local family’s home. We can participate this time and assist in the making of Kyrgyz fried bread – known as boorsook. Yum!

After lunch we will visit and walk into Skazka (Fairy Tale) Canyon where we will get one of the best views of the Issyk-Kul Lake. This freshwater lake is surrounded by some beautiful and colourful sandy formations.

Close to the canyon we will meet up with ‘Berkutchi’ – a local Golden Eagle Hunter. We can look on and watch the intriguing process of hunting. Luckily, in Kyrgyzstan, there are still some expert hunters keeping this nomadic tradition alive. After this we head to our guest house and rest up. You may wish to head out after dinner for a gentle stroll.

ACCOMMODATION – 1 night

Bokonbaevo Guesthouse (or similar)

MEALS – Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner

SIGHTSEEING: Chon Kemin National Park

After breakfast we will enjoy a walk in Chon Kemin National Park. Chon Kemin is in a valley, and therefore you can easily walk to the foot of the hills and down to the village. The view is breathtaking, especially from the hill side. Today is a good day to take in as much of nature as you wish and breathe in that fresh mountain air!

ACCOMMODATION – 1 night

Chon Kemin Guesthouse (or similar)

MEALS – Breakfast / Dinner

SIGHTSEEING: Burana Tower UNESCO World Heritage listed and Architectural Complex and Bishkek City tour.

Today we will visit the well photographed Burana Tower. We will see the petroglyphs and a great collection of Balbals and Turkic ancient tombs. Afterwards we will make a stop in Kyzyl Tuu village and visit the location of traditional yurt production. Over 70% of the villagers are engaged in the yurt making process. Here, we will visit the local family and their open-air workshop. We can watch the process, and the detail required to make the yurt. Also, participate in the process of yurt installation, learning more about the culture of the nomads.

On arrival into Bishkek, we will set off for an afternoon of sightseeing to get our bearings. Along the way visiting the Philharmonic Square, Central Square Ala Too, Lenin monument, Oak Park, and Victory square.

ACCOMMODATION – 1 night

Jannat Regency Hotel (or similar)

MEALS – Breakfast

SIGHTSEEING: Early morning visit to the market (before breakfast). After the market we will then return to the hotel for a relaxed breakfast and enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure. You are free today to explore as you wish. We will also have a late lunch (included) before transferring to the airport.

  • Bishkek Departure transfer – Hotel to Airport
  • Uzbek Airways flight 778 19:05/19:25
  • Tashkent Arrival transfer – Airport to Hotel

WELCOME TO UZBEKISTAN.

Uzbekistan is known as Asia’s ‘cradle of culture’ and proves to be Central Asia’s most impressive with the trio of Samarkand, Bukhara and Khiva never failing to impress.

ACCOMMODATION – 2 nights

Hotel Lotte City Tashkent Palace (or similar)

MEALS – Breakfast / Lunch

SIGHTSEEING: Tashkent

Today we dissect the city and discover part of the the fascinating network of Metro stations. Tashkent is renowned for its beautiful metro design. We will also visit the oldest market in Tashkent (Chorsu bazaar). Our sightseeing will include Barak Khana Seminary, Tila Shaikh Mosque & archives (ancient copy of Koran). Then this evening, we will venture out and find a great spot for dinner and drinks.

Hotel Lotte City Tashkent Palace (or similar)

MEALS – Breakfast

Today we travel by road through vast countryside as we make our way from Tashkent to Khujand. We will take in the big views as we head to the Uzbekistan/ Tajikistan border. At Oybek we will say goodbye to our Uzbek Escort.

After completing immigration formalities for both nations and entering Tajikistan, our Tajik Escort will be waiting to transfer us to our Khujand accommodation.

WELCOME TO TAJIKISTAN.

A predominantly mountainous country where over 90% of the land is upland. Often referred to as ‘The Roof of the world’.

SIGHTSEEING: Khujand UNESCO World Heritage City tour. We start the day with a visit to the exciting Panjshanbe Bazaar, then after lunch we will discover Khujand city on a sightseeing tour ending at the Sughd Museum. We will explore the outside of the complex as it has an amazing detailed architectural style. For those interested you may choose to extend the excursion and go inside the Museum. For those not interested, you can take a transfer back to hotel and enjoy free time or relax.

A 2nd Transfer to the hotel after the museum visit is also available. Both choices will be offered on the day.

ACCOMMODATION – 1 night

Khujand Deluxe Hotel (or similar)

MEALS – Breakfast / Lunch

SIGHTSEEING: Istaravshan

Today we will also visit Istaravshan including Mugtepa Fortress, Kok Gumbaz Mosque as we make our way to Dushanbe. Dushanbe, the capital city of Tajikistan, is heavily influenced by Persian culture and this is evident in its architecture, traditions, and language. It is a vibrant and culturally rich destination nestled at the foothills of the majestic Pamir Mountains. With a history that spans over two millennia, Dushanbe is a melting pot with diverse influences, blending the ancient traditions of Central Asia.

Dushanbe with its modern grand boulevards is surrounded by a rural hinterland of grassy pastures and snow-capped mountains, all visible from downtown. Dushanbe is a delightful city built around its parks, lakes and fountains. It’s hard to believe that less than 100 years ago there was little here other than a small village named after its weekly popular market. Dushanbe means ‘Monday’ marketplace. As you explore this enchanting city, you will uncover a myriad of fascinating facts that make Dushanbe truly unique.

ACCOMMODATION – 2 nights

Atlas B & B Guesthouse (or similar)

MEALS – Breakfast

SIGHTSEEING: Dushanbe city tour

We will visit the National Museum of Antiquities and the National Museum. It’s a small museum that houses an exquisite collection of traditional Tajikistan clothing. The real gem in the collection is the striped silk cloth known as ‘Atlas’. The women still wear this fabric today for special occasions. Today we will enjoy lunch with a local family.

Excursion – The Hisor Fortress is one of the best preserved historical sites in Tajikistan. Strategically located on a hilltop, the fortress was built around 2500 years ago. Legend has it that even Alexander the Great had captured the fortress at some point in time.

Atlas B & B Guesthouse (or similar)

MEALS – Breakfast / Lunch

SIGHTSEEING: Iskanderkul Lake

Iskanderkul Lake takes its name from Alexander the Great‘s passage in Tajikistan and is known as one of the most beautiful in the region. Iskander is the Persian pronunciation of Alexander, and kul means lake. Iskanderkul is a mountain lake of glacial origin and lies at an altitude of 2,195 metres on the northern slopes of the Gissar Range in the spectacular Fann Mountains. The canyon scenery is particularly dramatic as you approach the lake. Today we will enjoy our picnic lunch by the lake. There is a small walk available to the Snake Lake, near Iskanderkul Lake and it requires medium level of fitness. Those interested will have the option to participate.

Tonight, we are hosted by a local family in their guesthouse, where we have an opportunity to share their dinner table and experience the Tajik household and hospitality.

ACCOMMODATION – 1 night

Donish Guesthouse (or similar)

MEALS – Breakfast / Picnic Lunch / Dinner

SIGHTSEEING: Seven Lakes

Today we head to Panjakent in western Tajikistan and stop off at the ‘Seven Lakes’ where we will explore and enjoy a picnic lunch. This series of 7 incredible lakes is known as the Seven Diamonds of the Fann Mountains as they interconnect and are constantly changing colour, a truly magical sight to see.

ACCOMMODATION – 1 night

Panjakent Plaza Hotel (or similar)

MEALS – Breakfast / Picnic Lunch

SIGHTSEEING: Panjakent

This morning, we have time to enjoy a walk in Panjakent town. Panjakent is often referred to as the ‘Pompeii of Central Asia’.

After our walk we will depart by road to Jartepa, where we cross the Tajikistan/Uzbekistan border. After completing immigration formalities for both nations and entering Uzbekistan, our Uzbek Escort will be waiting to transfer us to our Samarkand accommodation.

WELCOME BACK TO UZBEKISTAN.

SIGHTSEEING: Samarkand UNESCO World Heritage listed Registan Square is the centrepiece of the city with its azure and majestic mosaics. Often it is said to be the most awesome single sight in Central Asia.

Samarkand lays in central Uzbekistan and is one of the oldest and important historic cities. This key Silk Road city sits at the crossroads of China, India and Persia and has been ruled by Turks, Arabs, Persians, and Mongolians.

Plov Master Class Experience: Plov, a Central Asian pilaf consisting of rice and fried vegetables, is the national staple and every region prepares its own distinct version. Today we witness the Uzbek version.

ACCOMMODATION – 2 nights

Kosh Havuz Hotel (or similar)

MEALS – Breakfast / Dinner

SIGHTSEEING: Half Day tour featuring Gur Emir, Bibi- Khanum, local bazaar and weaving demonstration at Samarkand Bukhara Silk Carpet Factory.

Remainder of day at leisure. This evening, we can walk back to the Registan Square Viewpoint (a short distance from our hotel) to see the incredible night-time display. Have your cameras handy! Afterwards we will find a great restaurant to have dinner, or you can head back to the hotel if you prefer.

Kosh Havuz Hotel (or similar)

MEALS – Breakfast

After breakfast we transfer from the Hotel to the Train Station where we board one of the nation’s modern high-speed trains.

  • Travel by train to Bukhara 10:46am/12:29pm
  • Bukhara Arrival transfer – Station to Hotel

The historic centre of Bukhara has also been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Bukhara has been a hub for traders and travellers since its foundation over 2,000 years ago and is Central Asia’s holiest cities. Situated on an oasis in the Zerafshan river delta in central Uzbekistan, Bukhara lies on a crossroads of ancient trade routes on the edge of the Kyzyl Kum (Red Sand) and Kara Kum (Black Sand) deserts.

The well-preserved architecture of Bukhara is a great blend of fortresses, minarets, and madrassas. The town has contributed to many locally produced goods that enriched The Silk Road trade and was particularly renowned for its textile industry. Karakul lambs’ fleeces, silk, cotton, leather, carpets and clothing were all traded from Bukhara, as well as gold embroidery and metal work, and many of these crafts are still practised in the city today.

SIGHTSEEING: Bukhara’s Jewish community

Luncheon Master class is a speciality of Bukhara’s Jewish community, Baksh (green) Plov at the Hotel Grand Nodirbek, where 5 old Jewish houses have been combined to create a hotel and museum.

You will have an opportunity to see the museum (gallery) and the old dining hall of a wealthy family’s house which has been preserved without renovation by the owner of the Hotel Grand Nodirbek. The hotel itself is located next to the Synagogue.

The best kept secret is to wander the little backstreets of Bukhara late in the day in readiness for the spectacular sunset.

ACCOMMODATION – 2 nights

Hotel Mercure (or similar)

MEALS – Breakfast / Lunch

SIGHTSEEING: Bukhara city tour

This morning, we will discover the art of Gijduvan Pottery (or similar), then after lunch we will visit the Ismail Samani Mausoleum, Citadel Ark, Lyabi Khauz Ensemble featuring Nodir Devonbegi Madrasah ending at Poyi Kalon Ensemble. After our sightseeing we can walk back to the hotel or continue exploring the Old Town independently in search of those amazing backstreet scenes.

Hotel Mercure (or similar)

MEALS – Breakfast

Transfer by road to Khiva and in true G&T style we save the best for last and extend our stay for a 3-night stop. The historic heart of Khiva is completely walled and has been so well preserved that it’s often referred to as a ‘museum city’. As you walk through one of the 4 city gates and wander the inner mud-walled city it’s hard not to feel like you are stepping into another era. You can climb the stairs and walk the 2.5km wall for some of the best views.

The streets of Khiva are filled with ancient buildings, princess towers and cute trinket shops. The city steals your heart. The sacred cow may wander the streets in India, well, here it is the camel. The drive today is approximate 6 hours but well worth the effort as we cross big open country and enjoy a very relaxed 3-night stop.

ACCOMMODATION – 3 nights

Hotel Asia Khiva (or similar)

MEALS – Breakfast

SIGHTSEEING: Walking tour of Khiva:

Today we experience the UNESCO World Heritage site of Itchan Kala (old city), Kalta Minor minaret, the Kunya Ark, the Madrassa Rakhimkhon, the Mausoleum of Pakhlavan Makhmud and Islam Khodja minaret, the Friday Mosque and Tashauli Palace including the harem.

Keen photographers and anyone with a taste for beauty should head out in the late afternoon for spectacular views of Khiva’s mostly west-facing facades bathed in the orange glow of the setting sun.

Hotel Asia Khiva (or similar)

MEALS – Breakfast

Day at leisure.

The old town is at its best at dawn, sunset and by night, when the moonlit silhouettes of the tilting minarets and madrassas, viewed from twisting alleyways, work their real magic. Today is yours to discover as you like so you may wish to rise early and experience Khiva waking up. The sky changes colour, from orange to pink, to blue, and purple. The colours of the sky make for even prettier, entrancing photos, or wait for our farewell Gala Dinner tonight which will be in a great location so that we can take advantage of the sun setting and soak up the great views from our restaurant rooftop terrace. What a way to finish a magical expedition!

Hotel Asia Khiva (or similar)

MEALS – Breakfast / Dinner

  • Departure transfer – Hotel to Khiva/Urgench Airport
  • Uzbek Airways flight 52 09:30/10:50

Tour arrangements conclude upon arrival at Tashkent Airport. You can arrange to fly out Internationally this day or have an extra night in Tashkent (own expense for overnight Hotel and airport transfers).

VIEW THE CENTRAL ASIA BROCHURE

Download the Central Asia Brochure
CLICK HERE TO REGISTER YOUR INTEREST FOR 2026

PRICE INCLUDES

  • 23 days touring Kazakhstan – Kyrgyzstan – Uzbekistan – Tajikistan.
  • Arrival transfer in Almaty on arrival day (Day 1).
  • 22 nights’ accommodation with a mixture of city hotels, regional guesthouses and 1 night in a traditional yurt.
  • Accommodation is based on twin/double share (single supplement applicable for single travellers).

NB: Our 1 night in the yurt may require single travellers to share with one other (same sex)

  • 22 x Breakfasts.
  • 9 x Lunches.
  • 7 x Dinners. (including our Gala Farewell Dinner on the final night of the tour)
  • All sightseeing as per the itinerary.
  • All entrances as per the itinerary.
  • All National Park entrance fees.
  • All Transport and drivers as per the itinerary.
  • Internal flight from Bishkek to Tashkent.
  • Internal flight from Khiva/Urgench to Tashkent.
  • High-speed train from Samarkand to Bukhara.
  • English speaking tour leader throughout.
  • English speaking local guides.
  • Gools and Thommo as your hosts throughout the entire tour.

PRICE EXCLUDES

  • Travel Insurance and visas (Compulsory)
  • Expenses of a personal nature such as drinks, snacks, laundry, telephone calls etc.
  • Tips and gratuities for the drivers, guides, porters, restaurant staff etc.
  • Any additional optional activities you may wish to add.

NB: *Prices are subject to change if there are any government tax increases on hotels & transportation or any increases in National Park fees for 2025.

NOTE: Tipping of drivers, guides and accommodation staff is customary. We have found from experience that the best way to deal with this is to generate a ‘tips kitty’ which takes away the guess work and the need for constant small change which can be embarrassing.

  • Please budget US$180 cash per person for the 23 days.
  • Please have this cash ready for collection at our pre departure meeting on day 1.
  • Small denominations are best.

AUSTRALIAN DOLLAR DEVALUATION REPRICE CLAUSE

G&T price our tours on a very narrow margin to give you, our clubbers, the very best possible value for money. In the event of a major currency fluctuation/devaluation, we reserve the right to recalculate the price until the final payment due date.

GRAB YOUR SPOT

  • Seats are strictly limited, and it is as always, a first in first served basis to secure a spot.
  • Many of our chosen accommodations are small and intimate and rooms are limited.
  • This means, as we secure single room occupancy for our solo travellers the availability will fill more quickly.
  • Our group size needs a minimum of 10 guests plus Gools and Thommo to be guaranteed. Our maximum group size is 18 guests.
  • Once we receive your booking form, we will check availability in request order and advise you.

NOTE: Completing & submitting this form does not automatically secure your booking. Once received, G&T will confirm and provide an invoice for your deposit. Receipt of your deposit by G&T Travel Club will then secure your booking.

PLEASE CLICK HERE to go to our online booking form.

G&T NUTS AND BOLTS

We are not a Tour Company – we are a Travel Club. This means this tour is not open to the general public.

  • This invitation is only for those of you who have travelled with us before and extended to your immediate family and friends.
  • PLEASE NOTE: Our G&T Travel Club is not associated in any way with Adventure Wild Pty Ltd, so please ensure all correspondence is directed back to us.