Across the steppes and the Silk Road

Descripción del viaje

Alojamiento

Programa del viaje

• día 1

  Almaty, arrival

  

  Arrival in Almaty early in the morning and transfer to the hotel for a well-deserved rest after the flight. Later, we begin a full day of discovering the largest city in Kazakhstan, located at the foot of the snow-capped Tian Shan mountains. First visit: the colorful Green Bazaar, followed by a walk in Panfilov Park, where the magnificent wooden Zenkov Cathedral and the moving Memorial of Glory and Eternal Flame are located. Next, we go up to Kok-Tobe hill, topped by the city's television tower, from where there is a spectacular panoramic view of Almaty. We descend by the famous cable car and continue towards the mountains. In Medeo, the highest skating rink in the world, we take a break before taking the cable car up to the Shymbulak ski resort, reaching 3,200 meters, to admire superb alpine panoramas. Return to the hotel in the evening. Overnight in Almaty. Meals: breakfast Overnight at the hotel

• día 2

  Almaty – Charyn Canyon – Kolsay Lakes by road, 440 km

  

  After breakfast, departure eastward to one of Kazakhstan’s most impressive natural wonders — the Charyn Canyon. Often nicknamed the “little brother” of the Grand Canyon, this spectacular gorge stretches for over 150 km. In two hours, we reach the famous Valley of Castles, where centuries of wind and rain have sculpted the sandstone cliffs into shapes reminiscent of ancient fortresses. We descend into the canyon for a walk of about 40 minutes to the Charyn River, surrounded by orange-red walls — an ideal place for photos and contemplation. Lunch is served in a small café near the canyon, offering a moment of relaxation before we continue our journey to the Kolsay Lakes — a true mountain paradise nestled in the northern Tian Shan range. Upon our arrival in the late afternoon, the pure mountain air and peaceful alpine landscapes welcome us. We settle into a cozy guesthouse, enjoy a homemade dinner, and rest after a day full of discoveries and magnificent scenery. Meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner Night at the hotel

• día 3

  Kolsay Lakes – Kaindy – "Kegen" land border – Karakol by road, 250 km

  

  After breakfast, departure to Lake Kaindy, a mystical place formed after a powerful earthquake in 1911. A landslide created a natural dam, flooding a spruce forest whose ghostly trunks still rise above the turquoise waters. This superb "sunken lake" is a sight not to be missed. We walk down to the lake to enjoy a breathtaking view or, optionally, on horseback (local organization). On the way, stop at a local's home for a hearty homemade lunch. In the afternoon, we continue to the Kegen border. After customs formalities, entry into Kyrgyzstan and drive to Karakol, a charming town at the foot of the Tian Shan mountains. Overnight at the hotel. Meals: breakfast, lunch Overnight at the hotel

• día 4

  Karakol and Djety-Oguz Gorge

  

  This morning, we set out to discover the cultural treasures of Karakol. We start with the colorful Dungan mosque, entirely built of wood without a single nail, then visit the Russian Orthodox Holy Trinity Cathedral, also made of wood. Finally, we discover the museum of Nikolai Przhevalsky, the Russian explorer who mapped much of Central Asia. Next, departure towards the mountains to explore the famous Djety-Oguz gorge ("Seven Bulls"), where spectacular red cliffs tower over spruce forests. We admire the iconic rock formations of the "Seven Bulls" and the "Broken Heart." The striking contrast between the red sandstone and the dark green forests makes this one of the most beautiful places in Kyrgyzstan. Return to Karakol for check-in and rest at the hotel. Meals: breakfast Overnight at the hotel

• día 5

  Karakol – Skazka Canyon – Bokonbaevo village – Kochkor village by road, 250 km

  

  After breakfast, we follow the southern shore of Lake Issyk-Kul towards the Skazka Canyon ("fairy tale"). Sculpted by wind and water over millions of years, the red and yellow clay has taken the shape of towers, castles, and ridges—some reminiscent of the Great Wall of China. A short walk gives the impression of entering another world. We continue to the village of Bokonbaevo, where we meet eagle hunters and attend a traditional falconry demonstration, an ancestral practice passed down from generation to generation. Lunch en route. In the evening, arrival in Kochkor, a village renowned for its felt crafts and warm hospitality. Dinner and overnight in Kochkor. Meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner

• día 6

  Kochkor – Bishkek by road, 200 km

  

  This morning, we immerse ourselves in Kyrgyz traditions during a felt-making workshop in Kochkor. Experienced artisans show how the colorful shyrdaks (felt rugs) are made, and we take part to discover the symbolism of their complex patterns. Next, we head to Bishkek where we arrive in the afternoon. The rest of the day is free: an excellent opportunity to explore the dynamic Osh Bazaar, where the stalls are full of fragrant spices, dried fruits, textiles, and handicrafts. It is the perfect place to feel the rhythm of local life and, why not, buy some souvenirs. Overnight in Bishkek. Meals: breakfast Overnight at the hotel

• día 7

  Bishkek – Tashkent by evening flight

  

  After breakfast, departure for a guided tour of Bishkek. We start with the Manas Monument, legendary hero of Kyrgyz epics, then head to Ala-Too Square to witness the solemn changing of the guard ceremony. At the National Historical Museum, we retrace the history of Kyrgyzstan, while the statues of Kurmanjan-Datka and Lenin recall the country's contrasting past. A walk in Oak Park, adorned with sculptures and the Fine Arts Gallery, offers a pleasant break. In the afternoon, transfer to the airport for the evening flight to Tashkent. Upon arrival, transfer to the hotel, check-in and overnight stay. Meals: breakfast Overnight at the hotel

• día 8

  Tashkent – Samarkand by night train

  

  Today, we discover the lively capital of Uzbekistan, where modernity and tradition coexist harmoniously. We visit the spiritual heart of the city – Khast-Imam Square, home to ancient madrasas and mausoleums – then we stroll through the colorful Chorsu bazaar, filled with the aromas of spices, fresh fruit, and local crafts. After lunch, we explore Independence Square and Amir-Temur Square, vast spaces surrounded by impressive architecture. Don’t miss the Tashkent metro, famous for its stations decorated like a true underground art gallery. In the evening, we take the comfortable train to Samarkand, a jewel of the Silk Road. Upon arrival, direct transfer to the hotel for a well-deserved rest before the discoveries of the next day. Meals: breakfast

• día 9

  Samarkand

  

  After breakfast, departure to discover the treasures of Samarkand, one of the most dazzling cities on the Silk Road. Our visit begins at the iconic Registan Square, surrounded by three majestic madrasas — Ulugh Beg, Sher-Dor, and Tilla-Qori — masterpieces of Islamic architecture. We continue to the Gur-Emir Mausoleum, the resting place of Tamerlane and his dynasty, adorned with a turquoise dome and richly decorated interiors. After lunch, visit to the Bibi-Khanoum Mosque, once one of the largest in the Islamic world, then a stroll through the Shah-i-Zinda necropolis, where magnificent mausoleums with blue tiles line a medieval alley. The day ends at the Ulugh Beg Observatory, where the great astronomer charted the stars centuries ago. Return to the hotel for the night. Meals: breakfast Night at the hotel

• día 10

  Samarqand – Bukhara by road (280 km)

  

  After breakfast, departure for Bukhara, one of the most enchanting cities on the Silk Road. The journey crosses the Kyzylkum plains — once traveled by caravans linking the oases. Upon arrival, immersion in the old city, where centuries of history are reflected in every brick and every dome. We begin with the majestic Poi-Kalyan complex, whose elegant minaret once served as a beacon for weary travelers. We also visit the Miri-Arab madrasa, the Magoki-Attori mosque, and the Ulugh Beg madrasa, each telling a story of faith and knowledge. The day ends at the peaceful Lyabi-Hauz square, shaded by mulberry trees, where the daily life of the locals unfolds. Check-in at the hotel and rest. Meals: breakfast Overnight at the hotel

• día 11

  Bukhara

  

  Breakfast at the hotel. Today, we continue our discovery of Bukhara, one of the most enchanting cities on the Silk Road. We start with the mausoleum of Ismail Samani, a masterpiece of early Islamic architecture, then visit the mausoleum of Chashma Ayub, linked to the legend of the prophet Job. Next, a stroll through the lively local market, before visiting the graceful Bolo-Khauz mosque and the powerful Ark citadel with its ancient Zindan prison — witnesses to the city's rich and sometimes dramatic past. In the afternoon, we leave the city to explore the Sitorai Mokhi-Khosa palace, the sumptuous summer residence of the last emir, as well as the mausoleum of Bahaouddin Naqshband, one of the most sacred pilgrimage sites in Central Asia. In the evening, we are welcomed into a traditional Uzbek house for a warm culinary experience. With our hosts, we take part in a plov cooking class, the Uzbek national dish, which we prepare step by step before sharing a homemade dinner, filled with laughter, aromas, and stories of local life. Meals: breakfast Night at the hotel

• día 12

  Bukhara – Tashkent by afternoon train

  

  After breakfast at the hotel, enjoy a free morning in Bukhara to savor the timeless atmosphere of this ancient caravan city. After check-out, take a relaxed walk with your guide through the alleys of the old town — the perfect opportunity to admire one last time the domes, the bazaars, and the warm spirit of Bukhara. In the afternoon, transfer to the station for a comfortable high-speed train journey to Tashkent, the dynamic capital of Uzbekistan. Upon arrival, you will be greeted by the driver and transferred to the hotel for check-in and rest after the journey. Meals: breakfast

• día 13

  Tashkent, departure

  

  Breakfast at the hotel and check-out before 12:00. Transfer to the international airport for your return flight, taking with you warm memories and unforgettable images of your journey through Central Asia. Meals: breakfast