Chris was born in Turkey and grew up in Ankara and war-torn Beirut. In 1998, he moved to Uzbekistan to work on a guidebook. Welcomed by a local family, he fell in love with the place and its people — and stayed. His book, A Carpet Ride to Khiva – Seven Years on the Silk Road, tells this story.
Silk Road Stories: Three Stans with Chris Aslan
A journey through Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, and Uzbekistan, from mountains to minarets…
| Start date | End date | Days |
Prices from
ex. flights |
Single Supplement | Tour Expert | Group Size | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 21/08/26 | 04/09/26 | 15 days | £4,495 pp | £685 | Chris Aslan | 15 Max | FULL |
Join author and Silk Road expert Chris Aslan on this 15-day journey through the diverse landscapes and cultures of Central Asia — from Kazakhstan to Kyrgyzstan and Uzbekistan — uncovering lesser-known corners alongside the region’s storied highlights.
Beginning in Kazakhstan, explore the remote, mountainous Kolsai Lakes and the dramatic Charyn Canyon. In Kyrgyzstan, wander through the sloping pasturelands of nomadic herders and follow the quieter south shore of Issyk-Kul Lake, the heartland of eagle hunting. Cross into Uzbekistan to travel by train between the Silk Road’s great cities, immersing yourself not only in UNESCO World Heritage sites but also in the country’s rich traditions, with hands-on metal engraving and cookery classes.
With time spent walking amidst the region’s natural beauty and Chris’s insight bringing the Silk Road’s past and present to life, this journey weaves together history, culture, and landscapes — all seen through the eyes of a true regional expert.
Introducing your expert
Chris Aslan
Key Highlights of this Itinerary
Kazakh Lakes
Journey by 4WD and foot to the remote shores of Lake Kaindy, where an eerie, submerged forest rises from the water.
Rich Traditions
Witness the thrilling sport of Kok Boru and experience the art of eagle hunting in the heartland of Kyrgyz nomadic culture.
Local Knowledge
Experience UNESCO-listed Khiva beyond the guidebooks with Chris’s local perspective.
Exceptional guiding
Travel alongside Central Asia aficionado Chris Aslan, author of “A Carpet Ride to Khiva – Seven Years on the Silk Road“.
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Day 1
Arrive Almaty (Kazakhstan)
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Day 2
Almaty to Kolsai Lake
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Day 3
Kolsai Lake to Karakol (Kyrgyzstan)
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Day 4
Karakol
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Day 5
Karakol to Bokonbayevo
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Day 6
Bokonbayevo to Bishkek
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Day 7
Bishkek
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Day 8
Bishkek to Tashkent (Uzbekistan)
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Day 9
Tashkent to Samarkand
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Day 10
Samarkand
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Day 11
Samarkand to Bukhara
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Day 12
Bukhara
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Day 13
Bukhara to Khiva
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Day 14
Khiva
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Day 15
Khiva to Urgench
Day 1
Arrive Almaty (Kazakhstan)
Arrive in Almaty and transfer to your accommodation. If arriving early on the Turkish Airways flight, your room will be ready for immediate check-in. After some rest, meet the group to explore Almaty visiting Panfilov Park’s Zenkov Cathedral — an incredible 1904 wooden structure built without nails — and the Glory Memorial. Also visit the Central Mosque, Green Bazaar, State History Museum, Republic Square, and Kok Tobe Hill for panoramic city views.
Day 2
Almaty to Kolsai Lake
Depart Almaty, stopping at Charyn Canyon for an optional 2.5 kilometre walk among the towering red sandstone spires before continuing eastwards to Kolsai Lakes and your accommodation in the village of Saty. In the afternoon explore the region where emerald waters mirror the surrounding mountains and forests.
Day 3
Kolsai Lake to Karakol (Kyrgyzstan)
After breakfast, travel by 4WD to Lake Kaindy, located in a coniferous forest at an altitude of 2,000 metres and among the mountains of Kungai Alatau. To reach the lake there will be a 2 kilometre walk or on horseback. Later, cross the border into Kyrgyzstan and continue to Karakol, a drive of around four hours.
Day 4
Karakol
Travel to Djety Oguz Gorge crossing mountain streams and passing ‘Broken Heart’ rock, a strata of red rocks lining the canyon. Spend time on foot exploring the sloping pasturelands which are inhabited by nomads during summer months. Return to Karakol in the afternoon and visit the Old Russian Orthodox Church and Dungan Mosque. Dinner tonight will be in a traditional Dungan homestay.
Day 5
Karakol to Bokonbayevo
Travel to Lake Issyk Kul’s south shore and explore Skazka (Fairytale Canyon) on a gentle walk. In the afternoon, witness a demonstration of traditional golden eagle hunting – this is the home of Eagle hunting and the perfect place to see these magnificent creatures. It’s also possible to visit the lake side and go for a swim.
Day 6
Bokonbayevo to Bishkek
Journey to Bishkek, stopping at the 10th-century Burana Tower. Then head to Don Aryk village for an exciting Kok Boru demonstration — Uzbekistan’s national sport. Continue to Kyrgyzstan’s capital city of Bishkek, a journey of around four to five hours.
Day 7
Bishkek
Travel outside the city to explore the rugged peaks of Ala Archa Gorge. Return to Bishkek in the afternoon to visit sites including the Victory Monument, Ala-Too Square, Parliament House, and the Green Bazaar — perfect for finding traditional Kyrgyz clothing, hats, and boots.
Day 8
Bishkek to Tashkent (Uzbekistan)
Transfer to the airport for your flight to Tashkent. This afternoon explore the Museum of Applied Arts, showcasing over 7,000 pieces of Uzbek craftsmanship. Visit the ornate metro, bustling Chorsu Bazaar, and the Khast Imam complex, home to one of the world’s oldest Korans and local artisan stalls.
Day 9
Tashkent to Samarkand
Today, travel by train to Samarkand, a journey of just over two hours. This afternoon explore Registan Square, a stunning ensemble of three madrasas built by 15th-century ruler Ulugh Beg. Visit the beautifully tiled Gur Emir, Tamerlane’s Tomb, then join a traditional Uzbek cookery class to make Plov before enjoying dinner at a local house.
Day 10
Samarkand
Visit Ulugh Beg’s 15th-century observatory and the Shah-I-Zinda mausoleum complex, believed to include his teacher’s tomb. See the Afrasiyab Museum’s 7th-century Sogdian frescoes, then explore Bibi Khanum Mosque — a Timurid masterpiece rebuilt in 1974 — and the lively Siyob Bazaar.
Day 11
Samarkand to Bukhara
After a relaxed breakfast, board a train for a two hour journey to Bukhara. This afternoon, visit Kalyan Mosque and Minaret, Ulugh Beg and Abdulazizkhan madrasas, Chor Minor, and Lyab-i-Khauz. Explore Ismael Samani Mausoleum, Chasma Ayub, Magoki Atori Mosque, and Bolo Khauz with its ornate wooden pillars.
Day 12
Bukhara
This morning, take part in a bespoke metal engraving class with a skilled Bukhara artisan, creating your own keepsake. Visit the Emir’s Summer Palace, Sitorai Mokhi-Khosa, with its ornate interiors and peaceful gardens. Explore the Baha-ud-Din Naqshband Complex, a key Sufi site, and the serene 16th-century Chor Bakr necropolis. Return to Bukhara to visit the Ark, a 2,000-year-old fortress that once housed the city’s elite.
Day 13
Bukhara to Khiva
A full day’s drive today to reach the UNESCO city of Khiva.
Day 14
Khiva
Explore Khiva’s Ichan Qala, a UNESCO-listed walled old town filled with stunning architecture. Visit its museums, madrasas, and mosques, including the thick city walls, Kalta Minor minaret, Kuhna Ark, and Juma Mosque’s carved columns. Watch local craftsmen at work, keeping traditional skills alive.
Day 15
Khiva to Urgench
Travel to Urgench airport, located around 45 minutes away for onward travel.
Kazakhstan’s Alpine Heights
Kolsai Lakes National Park
Tucked away in Kazakhstan’s northern Tien Shan mountains, this little-visited alpine region is home to three beautiful emerald-green lakes, each at a different altitude and surrounded by dense forest and dramatic peaks. The lower lake is the easiest to reach, while the upper lakes reward those willing to hike further with sweeping mountain views. Nearby is Lake Kaindy, known for its eerie, submerged spruce forest, created by a landslide in 1911. Rising from the water, the tree trunks resemble the masts of a sunken ship — a striking sight well worth the two-kilometre hike.
Kyrgyzstan’s Fierce National Sport
Kok Boru
Fast-paced and exhilarating, Kok Boru is a traditional Kyrgyz horseback game where riders, showcasing remarkable skill, battle to seize a goat carcass and score. Rooted in nomadic culture, the sport symbolises bravery and unity — a thrilling display of strength and strategy, offering a vivid glimpse into Kyrgyzstan’s enduring traditions.
Read about Jarrod’s experience watching a game of Kok Boru on the Kyrgyz steppes.
Valleys of Stone and Story
Gorges of Central Asia
Carved by time and nature, the gorges of Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan showcase some of Central Asia’s most striking landscapes. Charyn Canyon, often called the Grand Canyon’s smaller cousin, stretches over 80 kilometres, its red sandstone towers glowing in the sun. In Kyrgyzstan, the crimson cliffs of Djety Oguz Gorge are known locally as the “Seven Bulls,” while nearby Skazka — or Fairytale Canyon — lives up to its name with whimsical, wind-sculpted formations. Closer to Bishkek, Ala Archa Gorge offers a dramatic alpine escape, with rugged peaks, rushing rivers, and winding mountain trails.
Includes / Excludes
Important Information
Activity Level
Active
Single Supplement
Travelling on your own? Our group tours are perfect for solo travellers, as travelling as part of an organised group in faraway places provides security and peace of mind. We handle all of the arrangements for you and there will be a local tour guide on hand throughout to provide advice and help if needed, as well as the expertise of a Tour expert.
Flexibility
To allow flexibility, our group tours do not include international flights as standard. We can arrange international flights on your behalf, please get in touch with our travel experts for a quote. All international flights from the UK are ATOL protected.
What is included
- Accommodation as detailed
- Early check-in on arrival in Almaty on 21st August
- Accompanied by Chris Aslan throughout
- Accompanied by a local guide throughout
- Entrance to all sites mentioned
- All meals as detailed
- All transportation including train travel in business class
- Domestic flights from Bishkek to Tashkent
- Activities as detailed
What is excluded
- International Flights
- Travel insurance
- Items of a personal nature
- Drinks with meals
- Gratuities for local guides, drivers and porters
- Visas (if required)
Other available dates
For further information about any of these tours please call 01285 880 980
| Start date | End date | Days |
Prices from
ex. flights |
Tour Expert | Group Size | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 21/08/26 | 04/09/26 | 15 days | £4,495 pp | Chris Aslan | 15 Max | FULL |
Reserve your place on this group tour
Our travel experts have a wealth of first-hand knowledge, so if you have any questions about this expert-led group tour, please get in touch. They would love to help. We hope you can join us on this tour.
01285 880 980Send us an enquiry
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