The Oases of Central Asia—Lost Jewels of the Silk Road

Join us on this remarkable Central Asia trip, to discover the lost jewels of the Silk Road, in Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan and Kyrgyzstan. These oases of Central Asia were Silk Road epicenters, capitals of ancient empires, coveted chess pieces in the colonial Great Game, and Iron-Curtain captives force-fed collectivism. Now independent nations, the Soviet-created 'stans are some of the most mysterious and isolated, yet culturally power-packed and historically significant places on Earth. Experience comprehensive Central Asia travel on this in-depth tour of the continent's least traveled, most enigmatic region.

CENTRAL ASIA GROUP TRIP HIGHLIGHTS

• Explorations of four UNESCO World Heritage sites
• Visit the birthplace of Tamerlane, the great 14th century conqueror
• Sip tea at Lyabikhauz, the historic pool in the center of Bukhara
• View women making shyrdak, traditional Kyrgyz felt carpets
• Savor an authentic dinner with a local family at an Uzbek home
• Find yourself in the footsteps of history in the walled city of Khiva
• Meet with nomadic peoples near the shores of Kyrgyzstan's Lake Issyk-Kol
• Marvel at the sublime architecture and impossible shades of blue tile in Samarkand
• Listen to the ancient dutar, the traditional two-stringed guitar of the Turkmen

What's Included on a Small Group Trip

Expert Tour Leadership

Blending a powerhouse of destination knowledge with the warm accessibility of a trusted friend, our Tour Leaders will make your trip come alive.

Superior Hotels & Most Meals

Superior, often stunning accommodations are a standard feature of our group trips wherever possible. We favor authentic local style, excellent location and sheer beauty. Cuisine is varied, fresh, authentic and delicious.

Distinctive, Pre-Planned Itineraries

We've spent decades perfecting our group trips—they receive rave reviews from our travelers and accolades from industry pros. We've thought it all through, so all you do is pack your bags and join us.

Small Size

Big groups are unwieldy and preclude an intimate style. That's why we limit our trips to 18 travelers.

The Fine Details

Small Group Trips are a collection of distinctive itineraries with special touches for your group, expert local guides at each destination, daily activities and entry fees, visa fees, tips to local staff, airport departure taxes on group flights, ground transportation, private airport transfers, Emergency Evacuation and Emergency Medical travel insurance, and a customized Travel Guide specific to your journey.

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