2. This trip is a combination of KFSR and KFSM our most popular itineraries. As such the make up of your group and your leader may change on Days 9 and 20.
3. As Central Asian immigration and customs officials are notoriously strict, please make sure you keep all forms for when you exit the country. A lost customs or immigration form could result in a fine or being detained at the border. You must also declare ALL currency when entering and exiting the country. Keep all currency exchange slips or ATM receipts.
4. Travel to Turkmenistan requires a Letter of Invitation. Please see the 'Passport and visa' section in the Essential Trip Information for instructions.<\/div><\/p>","age_average":30,"images":[{"original":"https:\/\/images-api.intrepidgroup.travel\/Intrepid\/126452\/8814337687582.jpg","index":0},{"original":"https:\/\/cdn.tours-racv.com\/tour\/865\/8814338113566-3.jpg","index":1,"size_1_webp":"https:\/\/cdn.tours-racv.com\/640x450\/tour\/865\/8814338113566-3.webp","size_2_webp":"https:\/\/cdn.tours-racv.com\/960x450\/tour\/865\/8814338113566-3.webp","size_2_jpg":"https:\/\/cdn.tours-racv.com\/960x450\/tour\/865\/8814338113566-3.jpg","size_3_webp":"https:\/\/cdn.tours-racv.com\/1080x450\/tour\/865\/8814338113566-3.webp","size_4_webp":"https:\/\/cdn.tours-racv.com\/1280x900\/tour\/865\/8814338113566-3.webp","size_4_jpg":"https:\/\/cdn.tours-racv.com\/1280x900\/tour\/865\/8814338113566-3.jpg","size_5_webp":"https:\/\/cdn.tours-racv.com\/1440x900\/tour\/865\/8814338113566-3.webp","size_6_webp":"https:\/\/cdn.tours-racv.com\/1920x900\/tour\/865\/8814338113566-3.webp","size_6_jpg":"https:\/\/cdn.tours-racv.com\/1920x900\/tour\/865\/8814338113566-3.jpg"},{"original":"https:\/\/cdn.tours-racv.com\/tour\/865\/8814338375710-3.jpg","index":2,"size_1_webp":"https:\/\/cdn.tours-racv.com\/640x450\/tour\/865\/8814338375710-3.webp","size_2_webp":"https:\/\/cdn.tours-racv.com\/960x450\/tour\/865\/8814338375710-3.webp","size_2_jpg":"https:\/\/cdn.tours-racv.com\/960x450\/tour\/865\/8814338375710-3.jpg","size_3_webp":"https:\/\/cdn.tours-racv.com\/1080x450\/tour\/865\/8814338375710-3.webp","size_4_webp":"https:\/\/cdn.tours-racv.com\/1280x900\/tour\/865\/8814338375710-3.webp","size_4_jpg":"https:\/\/cdn.tours-racv.com\/1280x900\/tour\/865\/8814338375710-3.jpg","size_5_webp":"https:\/\/cdn.tours-racv.com\/1440x900\/tour\/865\/8814338375710-3.webp","size_6_webp":"https:\/\/cdn.tours-racv.com\/1920x900\/tour\/865\/8814338375710-3.webp","size_6_jpg":"https:\/\/cdn.tours-racv.com\/1920x900\/tour\/865\/8814338375710-3.jpg"},{"original":"https:\/\/cdn.tours-racv.com\/tour\/865\/8814338965534-3.jpg","index":3,"size_1_webp":"https:\/\/cdn.tours-racv.com\/640x450\/tour\/865\/8814338965534-3.webp","size_2_webp":"https:\/\/cdn.tours-racv.com\/960x450\/tour\/865\/8814338965534-3.webp","size_2_jpg":"https:\/\/cdn.tours-racv.com\/960x450\/tour\/865\/8814338965534-3.jpg","size_3_webp":"https:\/\/cdn.tours-racv.com\/1080x450\/tour\/865\/8814338965534-3.webp","size_4_webp":"https:\/\/cdn.tours-racv.com\/1280x900\/tour\/865\/8814338965534-3.webp","size_4_jpg":"https:\/\/cdn.tours-racv.com\/1280x900\/tour\/865\/8814338965534-3.jpg","size_5_webp":"https:\/\/cdn.tours-racv.com\/1440x900\/tour\/865\/8814338965534-3.webp","size_6_webp":"https:\/\/cdn.tours-racv.com\/1920x900\/tour\/865\/8814338965534-3.webp","size_6_jpg":"https:\/\/cdn.tours-racv.com\/1920x900\/tour\/865\/8814338965534-3.jpg"},{"original":"https:\/\/cdn.tours-racv.com\/tour\/865\/8814339719198-3.jpg","index":4,"size_1_webp":"https:\/\/cdn.tours-racv.com\/640x450\/tour\/865\/8814339719198-3.webp","size_2_webp":"https:\/\/cdn.tours-racv.com\/960x450\/tour\/865\/8814339719198-3.webp","size_2_jpg":"https:\/\/cdn.tours-racv.com\/960x450\/tour\/865\/8814339719198-3.jpg","size_3_webp":"https:\/\/cdn.tours-racv.com\/1080x450\/tour\/865\/8814339719198-3.webp","size_4_webp":"https:\/\/cdn.tours-racv.com\/1280x900\/tour\/865\/8814339719198-3.webp","size_4_jpg":"https:\/\/cdn.tours-racv.com\/1280x900\/tour\/865\/8814339719198-3.jpg","size_5_webp":"https:\/\/cdn.tours-racv.com\/1440x900\/tour\/865\/8814339719198-3.webp","size_6_webp":"https:\/\/cdn.tours-racv.com\/1920x900\/tour\/865\/8814339719198-3.webp","size_6_jpg":"https:\/\/cdn.tours-racv.com\/1920x900\/tour\/865\/8814339719198-3.jpg"}],"map_image_url":{"original":"https:\/\/cdn.tours-racv.com\/tour\/865\/8813262176286-1.gif","raw":"https:\/\/images-api.intrepidgroup.travel\/Intrepid\/126452\/8813262176286.gif","size_1_hd":"https:\/\/cdn.tours-racv.com\/0x800\/tour\/865\/8813262176286-1.jpg","size_1_hd_web":"https:\/\/cdn.tours-racv.com\/0x800\/tour\/865\/8813262176286-1.webp","size_1_web":"https:\/\/cdn.tours-racv.com\/0x400\/tour\/865\/8813262176286-1.webp"},"inclusions":["Meals: 25 breakfasts, 7 lunches, 7 dinners","Transport: Private Bus, Metro, High Speed Train","Accommodation: Guesthouse\/Homestay (3 night), Hotel (20 nights), Yurt\/Camp (2 nights)","Bishkek - City Tour","Shamsy Valley - Burana tower","Don Aryk - Local home visit & horsemanship demonstration","Kochkor - Market","Kochkor - Women's Felt Co-op","Uzgen - Uzgen Minaret & Complex","Osh - Sulaiman-Too Mountain","Osh - National Historical and Archaeological Museum Complex","Tashkent - Chorsu Bazaar","Tashkent - Khast Imom Complex & Moyie Mubarek Library Museum","Tashkent - History Museum of the People of Uzbekistan","Samarkand - Bibi-Khanym Mosque","Samarkand - Gur-e-Amir Mausoleum","Samarkand - Shakh-I-Zinda","Samarkand - Registan","Samarkand - Paper making workshop & home cooked lunch","Bukhara - Ismail Samani Mausoleum","Bukhara - Sitorai Mohi Hosa Palace","Bukhara - Chor-Bakr Necropolis","Bukhara - Ark Fortress","Bukhara - Kalon Mosque","Vobkent - Minaret","Gijduvan - Ceramics workshop","Khiva - Pahlavon Mahmud Mausoleum","Khiva - Kuhna Ark","Khiva - Islom Hoja Minaret & Medressa","Khiva - Juma Mosque","Khiva - Tosh-Hovli Palace","Darvaza - \"Door to Hell\" Crater","Konye-Urgench - City tour","Yerbent - Village visit","Ashgabat - National Museum of Turkmenistan","Ashgabat - Nisa ruins","Ashgabat - Anau ruins","Ashgabat - Independence Monument","Ashgabat - Neutrality Arch","Ashgabat - Turkmenbashy Ruhi Mosque & Family Mausoleum of the First President of Turkmenistan","Ashgabat - Ertugrul Gazi Mosque","Merv - Big & Small Kizkala","Merv - Erk Kala & Gayur Kala","Merv - Sultan Sanjar Mausoleum"],"price":7895,"member_discount_price":7501,"member_discount":5,"currency_code":"AUD","provider":{"name":"Intrepid Travel","description":"Intrepid is a small group tour travel company with humble beginnings that now sends over 100,000 travellers a year on grassroots and responsible travel tours.","logo":"https:\/\/cdn.tours.racv.com.au\/temp\/2021-10-25\/1635125846084-intrepid-primary-horizontal-red-rgb.png","tech_provider":"tour_atlas","url":"","payment_terms":"Payment can be made by Credit card. Subject to a 0.5% surcharge for Debit Card, 1.15% surcharge for Visa, MasterCard and 3% surcharge for American Express or by Electronic Transfer (EFT). Please ask your RACV Travel consultant for more information. ","cancellation_policy":"Cancelled bookings will incur charges and at the minimum a loss of deposit. These charges can be up to 100% of the cost of the booking, regardless of whether travel has commenced. Fees and extra charges will apply where a booking is changed or when tickets or documents are re-issued. Each individual supplier brochure will specify cancellation fees or your RACV Travel consultant can advise you of the specific airline fees relating to changes to your flights.","other_terms_and_notes":"For full booking conditions relating to your holiday, please see the booking conditions page at the back of the individual supplier brochures, or ask us for a copy.\n\nPrices<\/span>: All prices are subject to availability and can be withdrawn or varied without notice. The price is only guaranteed when paid in full. Please note that prices quoted here are subject to change. Price changes may occur by reason of matters outside our control which increase the cost of the product or service. Such factors include currency fluctuations, fuel surcharges, taxes and airfare increases.\n\nDisruption to cruising and touring arrangements\/Force Majeure<\/span>: Itineraries are intended as a guide only and are subject to change without notice. Alternations may be necessary for various reasons, including but not limited to, road, river or weather conditions, war, riots, road closures, natural disaster, industrial accidents, global pandemic which are beyond our or the supplier's reasonable control.\n\nHealth<\/span>: You must ensure that you are aware of any health requirements for your travel and ensure that you carry all necessary vaccination documentation. Some tour operators and tours require you to have a reasonable level of fitness and mobility. RACV Travel recommends seeking medical advice prior to your travel overseas. Consult your local GP or visit www.smarttraveller.gov.au<\/a> for information on any vaccinations that may be required."},"ref_provider_id":"159","featured_image":{"original":"https:\/\/cdn.tours-racv.com\/tour\/865\/8814337687582-6.jpg","size_1_webp":"https:\/\/cdn.tours-racv.com\/480x250\/tour\/865\/8814337687582-6.webp","size_2_webp":"https:\/\/cdn.tours-racv.com\/640x500\/tour\/865\/8814337687582-6.webp","size_3_webp":"https:\/\/cdn.tours-racv.com\/960x500\/tour\/865\/8814337687582-6.webp","size_3_jpg":"https:\/\/cdn.tours-racv.com\/960x500\/tour\/865\/8814337687582-6.jpg","size_4_webp":"https:\/\/cdn.tours-racv.com\/1080x500\/tour\/865\/8814337687582-6.webp","size_5_webp":"https:\/\/cdn.tours-racv.com\/1280x750\/tour\/865\/8814337687582-6.webp","size_5_jpg":"https:\/\/cdn.tours-racv.com\/1280x750\/tour\/865\/8814337687582-6.jpg","size_6_webp":"https:\/\/cdn.tours-racv.com\/1440x750\/tour\/865\/8814337687582-6.webp","size_6_jpg":"https:\/\/cdn.tours-racv.com\/1440x750\/tour\/865\/8814337687582-6.jpg"},"type":{"id":2,"created_at":null,"updated_at":null,"title":"Group Tours","description":"Group Tours","attributes":"Group","attributes_icon":"group","icon":"join","sort":1},"duration":26,"start_city":"Bishkek","start_countries":"Kyrgyzstan","end_city":"Ashgabat","end_countries":"Turkmenistan","travel_style":["Adventure"],"group_size_min":1,"group_size_max":12,"special_deal":[],"part":[{"id":10723,"created_at":"2020-10-10T17:35:16.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-07-05T20:02:52.000000Z","title":"Day 1: Bishkek","image_url":null,"description":"Welcome to Bishkek! Your adventure begins with a welcome meeting at 6 pm tonight. Tomorrow you\u2019ll take a tour of the city, so don\u2019t stress too much if you don\u2019t have time to see much today. Bishkek is tree-lined town of parks and gardens, handsome houses and wide streets perfect for strolling. If you arrive with time to spare, maybe head out in search of some samsa (pastry pockets filled with meat and vegetables).","sort":0,"tour_id":865,"ref_parts_id":"1","extra":{"meals":{"dinnersIncluded":"1","lunchesIncluded":0,"breakfastsIncluded":0},"accommodationList":{"description":"Hotel","numberOfNights":"1"},"includedActivityList":[],"optionalActivityList":[]}},{"id":10732,"created_at":"2020-10-10T17:35:16.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-07-05T20:02:52.000000Z","title":"Day 10: Tashkent","image_url":null,"description":"Begin your introduction to Uzbekistan by exploring the capital on a sightseeing tour. Visit the State History Museum, which shows exhibits and collections spanning the countries 5000-year history. Continue to the Abdul Khasim Medrassah, where craftspeople operate in many small \u2018cells\u2019, making jewellery and other things. Finally, stop by the Khast Imom complex, a restored series of religious buildings (including a mosque) and a library containing an ancient Qur\u2019an, parts of which have been dated to the ninth century. After lunch, lose yourself in the exciting Chorsu Bazaar, browsing traditional wooden cradles, handmade musical instruments, and the extensive vegetable and spice markets.","sort":9,"tour_id":865,"ref_parts_id":"10","extra":{"meals":{"dinnersIncluded":0,"lunchesIncluded":0,"breakfastsIncluded":"1"},"accommodationList":{"description":"Hotel","numberOfNights":"1"},"includedActivityList":[{"description":"Tashkent - Chorsu Bazaar"},{"description":"Tashkent - Khast Imom Complex & Moyie Mubarek Library Museum"},{"description":"Tashkent - History Museum of the People of Uzbekistan"}],"optionalActivityList":[]}},{"id":10733,"created_at":"2020-10-10T17:35:16.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-07-05T20:02:52.000000Z","title":"Day 11: Samarkand","image_url":null,"description":"Transfer to the station for the high-speed train to fabled Samarkand (approximately 2 hours). This city is located at the very centre of the ancient Silk Road. Enjoy some free time in the city on arrival, saving some of the key sights for the tour tomorrow. Maybe inspect the remains of the remarkable medieval observatory developed by Ulug Beg, an astronomer and grandson of nomadic conqueror and Timurid emperor Tamerlane (Amir Timur). Today, only half of the below-ground semicircle track can be seen, but there is a small museum close by that gives some context. Or perhaps visit the Afrosiab Museum of Samarkand, the main attraction of which is a tenth-century mural.","sort":10,"tour_id":865,"ref_parts_id":"11","extra":{"meals":{"dinnersIncluded":0,"lunchesIncluded":0,"breakfastsIncluded":"1"},"accommodationList":{"description":"Hotel","numberOfNights":"1"},"includedActivityList":[],"optionalActivityList":[{"price":{"#text":"22000","@currency":"UZS"},"description":"Samarkand - Ulugbek's Observatory"},{"price":{"#text":"22000","@currency":"UZS"},"description":"Samarkand - Afrosiab Museum"}]}},{"id":10734,"created_at":"2020-10-10T17:35:16.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-07-05T20:02:52.000000Z","title":"Day 12: Samarkand","image_url":null,"description":"Enjoy a tour of Samarkand. First up is the central square called the Registan, which features mosques and mausoleums that are true pinnacles of Islamic architecture. Continue to Guri-Amir, where Tamerlane is buried, and then the enormous Bibi-Khanum Mosque. Following the tour, drive to Konigil, a village on the edge of the city. Here, visit a local family for lunch, then join them in their traditional paper mill to learn how they make the material from mulberry. Return to Samarkand and visit Shak-i-Zinda, a necropolis that features a series of gleaming blue-tiled mausoleums. This sacred site has monuments from the 14th\u201319th century, reflecting the development of the monumental art and architecture of the Timurid dynasty onwards. It is photo worthy at every turn, just remember to be respectful as pilgrims visit the complex.","sort":11,"tour_id":865,"ref_parts_id":"12","extra":{"meals":{"dinnersIncluded":0,"lunchesIncluded":"1","breakfastsIncluded":"1"},"accommodationList":{"description":"Hotel","numberOfNights":"1"},"includedActivityList":[{"description":"Samarkand - Bibi-Khanym Mosque"},{"description":"Samarkand - Gur-e-Amir Mausoleum"},{"description":"Samarkand - Shakh-I-Zinda"},{"description":"Samarkand - Registan"},{"description":"Samarkand - Paper making workshop & home cooked lunch"}],"optionalActivityList":[]}},{"id":10735,"created_at":"2020-10-10T17:35:16.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-07-05T20:02:52.000000Z","title":"Day 13: Bukhara","image_url":null,"description":"Travel from Samarkand to Bukhara by train this morning (approx 2 hours). Located on the ancient Silk Road, Bukhara was an important regional and world hub for many, many years and has a long, fascinating history featuring invasions by both Genghis Khan and the Soviet Red Army. Explore this fascinating city with your tour leader on an orientation walk after arrival.","sort":12,"tour_id":865,"ref_parts_id":"13","extra":{"meals":{"dinnersIncluded":0,"lunchesIncluded":0,"breakfastsIncluded":"1"},"accommodationList":{"description":"Hotel","numberOfNights":"1"},"includedActivityList":[],"optionalActivityList":[]}},{"id":10736,"created_at":"2020-10-10T17:35:16.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-07-05T20:02:52.000000Z","title":"Day 14: Bukhara","image_url":null,"description":"Enjoy a full day of sightseeing in beautiful Bukhara. First visit the Sitorai Mohi Khosa, once the summer residence of the last Emir. Designed by Russian architects, it has interiors decorated with traditional filigree plaster, mirrored surfaces and delicate floral wall paintings by local artisans. Continue to the 16th-century Chor-Bakr necropolis, where not many tourists venture. Walk through the madrasa and mosque complex. In the afternoon, visit the Ark Fortress and Kalon Mosque, the symbol of Bukhara. Continue to one of Central Asia's oldest and most exquisite structures, the tenth-century Ismail Samani Mausoleum, the superb decorative brickwork of which has survived 1000 years of rugged history. Head to the Lyabi-Haus area, a busy 17th-century plaza with hundreds-years-old trees, for dinner. Later, there is time to wander the small craft studios tucked into the nearby madrasas and trading domes.","sort":13,"tour_id":865,"ref_parts_id":"14","extra":{"meals":{"dinnersIncluded":0,"lunchesIncluded":0,"breakfastsIncluded":"1"},"accommodationList":{"description":"Hotel","numberOfNights":"1"},"includedActivityList":[{"description":"Bukhara - Ismail Samani Mausoleum"},{"description":"Bukhara - Sitorai Mohi Hosa Palace"},{"description":"Bukhara - Chor-Bakr Necropolis"},{"description":"Bukhara - Ark Fortress"},{"description":"Bukhara - Kalon Mosque"}],"optionalActivityList":[]}},{"id":10737,"created_at":"2020-10-10T17:35:16.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-07-05T20:02:52.000000Z","title":"Day 15: Gijduvan \u2013 Bukhara","image_url":null,"description":"Travel to Gijduvan, historically a caravan stop on the way to Bukhara. Ulugbek, the famous astronomer and grandson of Tamerlane, built a madrasa here next to the grave of a Sufi saint. The town gained further fame as a centre of glazed pottery production. Visit the private studio of a local ceramic artist, meet the family and watch them at work. Later you have some free time to explore this small town. For lunch we recommend the juicy local kebabs that are famous throughout Uzbekistan. On your way back to Bukhara, stop to see a minaret from the late 12th century in Vobkent.","sort":14,"tour_id":865,"ref_parts_id":"15","extra":{"meals":{"dinnersIncluded":0,"lunchesIncluded":0,"breakfastsIncluded":"1"},"accommodationList":{"description":"Hotel","numberOfNights":"1"},"includedActivityList":[{"description":"Vobkent - Minaret"},{"description":"Gijduvan - Ceramics workshop"}],"optionalActivityList":[]}},{"id":10738,"created_at":"2020-10-10T17:35:16.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-07-05T20:02:52.000000Z","title":"Day 16: Tashkent","image_url":null,"description":"Enjoy some free time for your own optional sightseeing in Bukhara. In the afternoon, take a fast train back to Tashkent followed by an optional dinner with your fellow travellers.","sort":15,"tour_id":865,"ref_parts_id":"16","extra":{"meals":{"dinnersIncluded":0,"lunchesIncluded":0,"breakfastsIncluded":"1"},"accommodationList":{"description":"Hotel","numberOfNights":"1"},"includedActivityList":[],"optionalActivityList":[]}},{"id":10739,"created_at":"2020-10-10T17:35:16.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-07-05T20:02:52.000000Z","title":"Day 17: Tashkent","image_url":null,"description":"Today is a free day for you to explore Tashkent until 6pm group meeting to meet your new travel buddies.","sort":16,"tour_id":865,"ref_parts_id":"17","extra":{"meals":{"dinnersIncluded":0,"lunchesIncluded":0,"breakfastsIncluded":"1"},"accommodationList":{"description":"Hotel","numberOfNights":"1"},"includedActivityList":[],"optionalActivityList":[]}},{"id":10740,"created_at":"2020-10-10T17:35:16.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-07-05T20:02:52.000000Z","title":"Day 18: Khiva","image_url":null,"description":"Take morning flight to Urgench (90 minutes) and transfer to colourful Khiva (45 minutes). Many global powers have laid claim to this city over the centuries, from khans to Silk Road traders and the Soviet Union. Get acquainted with Khiva on a tour of this walled-city. See the incredible blue-tiled Kalta Minor Minaret and the Mohammed Amin Khan Madressa. Explore the Kuhna Ark, the 'citadel within a citadel' which once housed the Khan and his family in the 17th century, then get a good look at this attractive city from the Ak-sheikh Baba Observatory. Finally, visit the Pahlavon Mahmud Mausoleum, a complex constructed in honour of the famous 13th-century poet, craftsman and fighter. A popular pilgrimage site, the mint-coloured dome that tops the main mausoleum is stunning. Spend the rest of the day as you wish. Maybe ask your leader where to grab the best plov (rice, meat, and carrots). The city is a photographer's delight, particularly in the evenings when the sun begins to set and fading light glints off turquoise tiles, so make sure you have your phone or camera ready to snap some pictures.","sort":17,"tour_id":865,"ref_parts_id":"18","extra":{"meals":{"dinnersIncluded":0,"lunchesIncluded":0,"breakfastsIncluded":"1"},"accommodationList":{"description":"Hotel","numberOfNights":"1"},"includedActivityList":[{"description":"Khiva - Pahlavon Mahmud Mausoleum"},{"description":"Khiva - Kuhna Ark"}],"optionalActivityList":[]}},{"id":10741,"created_at":"2020-10-10T17:35:16.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-07-05T20:02:52.000000Z","title":"Day 19: Khiva","image_url":null,"description":"Khiva is particularly magic at dawn when the streets are empty. Later, you leader will guide you through some of the city\u2019s other impressive monuments and buildings. Visit the towering Islom Hoja Minaret, the tallest building in Khiva. Explore Juma Mosque, the roof of which is propped up by 212 wooden columns and designed to let in sunlight. If you want a peek at Uzbek luxury, look no further than the Tosh-Hovli Palace, which was built in the first half of the 19th century. Wander through elaborately decorated courtyards connected by labyrinthian corridors. The rest of the afternoon is yours to relax.","sort":18,"tour_id":865,"ref_parts_id":"19","extra":{"meals":{"dinnersIncluded":0,"lunchesIncluded":0,"breakfastsIncluded":"1"},"accommodationList":{"description":"Hotel","numberOfNights":"1"},"includedActivityList":[{"description":"Khiva - Islom Hoja Minaret & Medressa"},{"description":"Khiva - Juma Mosque"},{"description":"Khiva - Tosh-Hovli Palace"}],"optionalActivityList":[]}},{"id":10724,"created_at":"2020-10-10T17:35:16.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-07-05T20:02:52.000000Z","title":"Day 2: Bishkek","image_url":null,"description":"Embark on city tour that showcases the various stages of Bishkek\u2019s history. Visit the severe Ala-Too Square, once known as Lenin Square, and learn about the towering statue depicting folkloric hero Manas. Continue to Dubovy Park, and wander among the open-air cafes before strolling between the century-old oaks along Freedom Avenue. In the afternoon, you'll have some free time to further explore Bishkek. Quite the contrast to the relaxed quiet streets, square and parks in the city centre, Osh Market is noisy, crowded, and a perfect peek into local life. You'll find all kinds of things on sale here, from spices and fruits to clothes and carpets.","sort":1,"tour_id":865,"ref_parts_id":"2","extra":{"meals":{"dinnersIncluded":0,"lunchesIncluded":0,"breakfastsIncluded":"1"},"accommodationList":{"description":"Hotel","numberOfNights":"1"},"includedActivityList":{"description":"Bishkek - City Tour"},"optionalActivityList":{"price":{"#text":"150","@currency":"KGS"},"description":"Bishkek - State Historical Museum"}}},{"id":10742,"created_at":"2020-10-10T17:35:16.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-07-05T20:02:52.000000Z","title":"Day 20: Konye-Urgench \u2013 Darvaza","image_url":null,"description":"Say goodbye to Uzbekistan and cross the border into Turkmenistan at Khodjeyli (Xo\u2018jayli). Meet the new leader who will be your key to local secrets, food and highlights for the rest of your journey. From the border, make a 1.5-hour drive to the World Heritage-listed Konye-Urgench. Once a centre of the Islamic world, it suffered destruction at the hands of Genghis Khan and the Timurid dynasty and fell into decay until the 20th century. But it still has tonnes of monuments from the 11th to 16th centuries, including a mosque, mausoleum and the 60-metre-high Gutlug Timur Minaret. Continue your journey with a 4-hour drive by 4WD to Darvaza Crater. This astounding 70-metre-wide hole in the Karakum Desert is permanently aflame. Soviet oil prospectors started drilling in 1971 expecting to find oil, and the ground collapsed to form the crater. Worried about the gas released into the air, they deliberately set the crater on fire to burn off the excess, expecting it to last a few weeks. As you\u2019ll see today, they were wrong, and the crater has been burning ever since. Watch the sunset over the 'Door to Hell' from your nearby camp, and enjoy a Turkmenistan-style barbecue for dinner.","sort":19,"tour_id":865,"ref_parts_id":"20","extra":{"meals":{"dinnersIncluded":"1","lunchesIncluded":0,"breakfastsIncluded":"1"},"accommodationList":{"description":"Camping","numberOfNights":"1"},"includedActivityList":[{"description":"Darvaza - \"Door to Hell\" Crater"},{"description":"Konye-Urgench - City tour"}],"optionalActivityList":[]}},{"id":10743,"created_at":"2020-10-10T17:35:16.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-07-05T20:02:52.000000Z","title":"Day 21: Yerbent \u2013 Ashgabat","image_url":null,"description":"Hit the sand again in the 4WD, making the 4-hour drive to Ashgabat with a stop along the way at the tiny settlement of Yerbent. The community here live primarily in yurts that are tucked between the sand dunes. Check out the local monument that pays tribute to the group of socialists that died in the Basmachi Revolt in 1931, then continue to Ashgabat. Little is left of the original Russian Imperial city as most of it was destroyed in a massive earthquake in 1948, and today the city centre is a bizarre mix of futuristic and outrageous public buildings. Get a sense of Ashgabat old and new with a tour that takes in both the ancient settlement of Nisa and the National Museum of Turkmenistan. Enjoy a free afternoon in this mind-bending city. Look out for the ornate, golden telephone booths, screens broadcasting official ceremonies on a loop and imposing statues of the president.","sort":20,"tour_id":865,"ref_parts_id":"21","extra":{"meals":{"dinnersIncluded":0,"lunchesIncluded":0,"breakfastsIncluded":"1"},"accommodationList":{"description":"Hotel","numberOfNights":"1"},"includedActivityList":[{"description":"Yerbent - Village visit"},{"description":"Ashgabat - National Museum of Turkmenistan"},{"description":"Ashgabat - Nisa ruins"}],"optionalActivityList":[]}},{"id":10744,"created_at":"2020-10-10T17:35:16.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-07-05T20:02:52.000000Z","title":"Day 22: Ashgabat","image_url":null,"description":"Take a full day to wrap your head around this desert city on an immersive guided tour taking in the four pointed minarets atop the Ertugrul Gazi Mosque and the the extravagant Independence Monument. This sculpted park is filled with statues of Turkmen heroes (and controversial politicians) that line paths that lead to a golden dome and a (surprise!) massive minaret. From this lavish ode to Turkmen identity, continue to the Neutrality Arch, which despite its name has a provocative history. Then travel outside of the city to the Turkmenbashy Ruhi Mosque, the mausoleum of former Turkmen leader Saparmurat Niyazov, before heading further out of town to the ruins of Anau. The crumbling remains of the medieval mosque still attract the devout, who come to pray and make offerings. After a day full of sightseeing, maybe spend the evening relaxing at your hotel.","sort":21,"tour_id":865,"ref_parts_id":"22","extra":{"meals":{"dinnersIncluded":0,"lunchesIncluded":0,"breakfastsIncluded":"1"},"accommodationList":{"description":"Hotel","numberOfNights":"1"},"includedActivityList":[{"description":"Ashgabat - Anau ruins"},{"description":"Ashgabat - Independence Monument"},{"description":"Ashgabat - Neutrality Arch"},{"description":"Ashgabat - Turkmenbashy Ruhi Mosque & Family Mausoleum of the First President of Turkmenistan"},{"description":"Ashgabat - Ertugrul Gazi Mosque"}],"optionalActivityList":[]}},{"id":10745,"created_at":"2020-10-10T17:35:16.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-07-05T20:02:52.000000Z","title":"Day 23: Mary","image_url":null,"description":"Rise and shine for the 5-hour drive to Mary (pronounced \u2018Mah-rih\u2019). The somewhat ostentatious displays of wealth in the city can be traced to the long-running gas and cotton industries. Stop en route for lunch and to roam through the ruins of Abiverd. This fascinating archaeological site was an important trading town from 652 AD until the 12th century, and you can still see ancient shards of pottery scattered on the ground. Arrive in Mary in the afternoon and settle into your hotel.","sort":22,"tour_id":865,"ref_parts_id":"23","extra":{"meals":{"dinnersIncluded":0,"lunchesIncluded":"1","breakfastsIncluded":"1"},"accommodationList":{"description":"Hotel","numberOfNights":"1"},"includedActivityList":[],"optionalActivityList":[]}},{"id":10746,"created_at":"2020-10-10T17:35:16.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-07-05T20:02:52.000000Z","title":"Day 24: Merv \u2013 Mary","image_url":null,"description":"Take a 40-minute drive to Merv, also known as Margiana or Margush, and enjoy some time to explore Turkmenistan's most recognised site. This sprawling World Heritage site is home to numerous walled structures from various periods spread across a 1200-hectare area. See impressive columns smoothed by wind and time at the Greater Kizkala and walk hills that were once the fortress walls of Erk Kala. While not the most impressive visually, Gyaur Kala dates to 400 BC and has a fascinating history. Spend some time exploring these relics of grand empires and then return to Mary for a free afternoon. Maybe visit the Mary Regional Museum. Housed in a palace of white marble, the museum features archaeological displays and exhibitions on traditional Turkmen life and culture.","sort":23,"tour_id":865,"ref_parts_id":"24","extra":{"meals":{"dinnersIncluded":0,"lunchesIncluded":0,"breakfastsIncluded":"1"},"accommodationList":{"description":"Hotel","numberOfNights":"1"},"includedActivityList":[{"description":"Merv - Big & Small Kizkala"},{"description":"Merv - Erk Kala & Gayur Kala"},{"description":"Merv - Sultan Sanjar Mausoleum"}],"optionalActivityList":[]}},{"id":10747,"created_at":"2020-10-10T17:35:16.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-07-05T20:02:52.000000Z","title":"Day 25: Ashgabat","image_url":null,"description":"Glittering Ashgabat awaits your return today, so make the 5-hour return drive to the City of White Marble. Enjoy a free afternoon to spend as you wish before an optional dinner with your travel group.","sort":24,"tour_id":865,"ref_parts_id":"25","extra":{"meals":{"dinnersIncluded":0,"lunchesIncluded":0,"breakfastsIncluded":"1"},"accommodationList":{"description":"Hotel","numberOfNights":"1"},"includedActivityList":[],"optionalActivityList":{"price":{"#text":"5","@currency":"USD"},"description":"Carpet Museum"}}},{"id":10748,"created_at":"2020-10-10T17:35:16.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-07-05T20:02:52.000000Z","title":"Day 26: Ashgabat","image_url":null,"description":"There are no activities planned for the final day and you are able to depart the hotel at any time.","sort":25,"tour_id":865,"ref_parts_id":"26","extra":{"meals":{"dinnersIncluded":0,"lunchesIncluded":0,"breakfastsIncluded":"1"},"accommodationList":[],"includedActivityList":[],"optionalActivityList":[]}},{"id":10725,"created_at":"2020-10-10T17:35:16.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-07-05T20:02:52.000000Z","title":"Day 3: Don Aryk \u2013 Issyk-Kul Lake \u2013 Kochkor","image_url":null,"description":"Drive 60 kilometres to the 11th-century Burana Tower, a minaret that is the most visible remnant of the ancient city Balasagun. Continue to the nearby village of Don Aryk and visit a local home. Learn a little about the important role horses have played in the traditional Kyrgyz nomadic lifestyle and watch some displays of horsemanship, before eating a tasty lunch with your hosts. Continue to Issyk-Kul Lake, the second-largest alpine lake in the world. At 170-kilometres-long and 70-kilometres-wide, his beauty is a real sight to behold. Next up is the village of Kochkor. Explore a small local market in the centre of town and, depending on our arrival time, a local co-op that provides training for women in crafting traditional handicrafts to make an income.","sort":2,"tour_id":865,"ref_parts_id":"3","extra":{"meals":{"dinnersIncluded":"1","lunchesIncluded":"1","breakfastsIncluded":"1"},"accommodationList":{"description":"Guesthouse\/Homestay","numberOfNights":"1"},"includedActivityList":[{"description":"Shamsy Valley - Burana tower"},{"description":"Don Aryk - Local home visit & horsemanship demonstration"},{"description":"Kochkor - Market"},{"description":"Kochkor - Women's Felt Co-op"}],"optionalActivityList":[]}},{"id":10726,"created_at":"2020-10-10T17:35:16.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-07-05T20:02:52.000000Z","title":"Day 4: Song-Kol Lake (3016 metres)","image_url":null,"description":"Drive 130 kilometres to Song-Kol Lake, another alpine stunner that is considered a sacred place to many Kyrgyz people, as well as one of the best summer pastures for nomadic herders. The landscape will change depending on the season but is sure to be beautiful no matter when you travel. In the summer you might see nomadic herdsmen and their families watching over goats, sheep, and horses. Enjoy exploring your surroundings for the rest of the day, maybe hiking one of the many trails. Tonight, fall asleep in yurts set up along the shore. Made of felt and tarpaulins on a round frame, yurts are the traditional dwellings of the Kyrgyz people. Tomorrow, those daring enough for an invigorating morning splash can use the lake to wash off the sleep.","sort":3,"tour_id":865,"ref_parts_id":"4","extra":{"meals":{"dinnersIncluded":"1","lunchesIncluded":"1","breakfastsIncluded":"1"},"accommodationList":{"description":"Yurt Camp","numberOfNights":"1"},"includedActivityList":[],"optionalActivityList":[]}},{"id":10727,"created_at":"2020-10-10T17:35:16.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-07-05T20:02:52.000000Z","title":"Day 5: Kyzyl-Oi","image_url":null,"description":"Travel along gravel roads to the tiny village of Kyzyl-Oi, which is squeezed between mountains. On the way, pass large coal deposits and travel along the Kokomeren River, which feeds into the Syr Darya. Enjoy a picnic lunch on the banks of the river in the shade of the trees and use your free time to explore the village on arrival.","sort":4,"tour_id":865,"ref_parts_id":"5","extra":{"meals":{"dinnersIncluded":"1","lunchesIncluded":"1","breakfastsIncluded":"1"},"accommodationList":{"description":"Guesthouse\/Homestay","numberOfNights":"1"},"includedActivityList":[],"optionalActivityList":[]}},{"id":10728,"created_at":"2020-10-10T17:35:16.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-07-05T20:02:52.000000Z","title":"Day 6: Suusamyr Valley \u2013 Chychkan \u2013 Kok-Bel","image_url":null,"description":"Get ready for a full-day of driving though big, beautiful landscapes. As the roads in Kyrgyzstan see little regular maintenance, even short distances on a map can take hours. The road crosses the Suusamyr Valley \u2013 a high steppe plateau situated at around 2200 metres above sea level. The mountainous surroundings are often dotted with yurts. Continue along the Chychkan River that cuts through the Tien Shan mountain range. Stop here for a while and soak up the amazing scenery. Arrive at tonight's accommodation in Kok-Bel sometime in the early evening.","sort":5,"tour_id":865,"ref_parts_id":"6","extra":{"meals":{"dinnersIncluded":"1","lunchesIncluded":"1","breakfastsIncluded":"1"},"accommodationList":{"description":"Guesthouse\/Homestay","numberOfNights":"1"},"includedActivityList":[],"optionalActivityList":[]}},{"id":10729,"created_at":"2020-10-10T17:35:16.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-07-05T20:02:52.000000Z","title":"Day 7: Osh","image_url":null,"description":"After breakfast, get ready for another all-day journey to Osh, the second-largest city in Kyrgystan. Stop en route at Uzgen, an ancient trading town and handicrafts centre along the Silk Road. Although much of the ancient city has been destroyed, a minaret and three mosques that have survived remain important examples of medieval Central Asian architecture. Continue to Osh. Located in the Fergana Valley in the south of the country, Osh is often referred to as the 'Capital of the South' and is the oldest city in the country.","sort":6,"tour_id":865,"ref_parts_id":"7","extra":{"meals":{"dinnersIncluded":0,"lunchesIncluded":"1","breakfastsIncluded":"1"},"accommodationList":{"description":"Hotel","numberOfNights":"1"},"includedActivityList":{"description":"Uzgen - Uzgen Minaret & Complex"},"optionalActivityList":[]}},{"id":10730,"created_at":"2020-10-10T17:35:16.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-07-05T20:02:52.000000Z","title":"Day 8: Osh","image_url":null,"description":"Rise and shine for a visit to the only World Heritage site in Kyrgystan, the Sulaiman-Too Sacred Mountain, also known as Solomon's Throne. For centuries Silk Road travellers have sought out the mountain's caves and their petroglyphs in the belief that they would be blessed with longevity or healthy children. Visit the National Historical and Archaeological Museum Complex. In the afternoon, enjoy some free time in Osh. Perhaps visit the Jayma Bazaar, where you might pick up an interesting souvenir or two. Or maybe take a self-guided tour of the remnants of Osh's soviet past with a walk to the giant Lenin statue in the city square.","sort":7,"tour_id":865,"ref_parts_id":"8","extra":{"meals":{"dinnersIncluded":"1","lunchesIncluded":0,"breakfastsIncluded":"1"},"accommodationList":{"description":"Hotel","numberOfNights":"1"},"includedActivityList":[{"description":"Osh - Sulaiman-Too Mountain"},{"description":"Osh - National Historical and Archaeological Museum Complex"}],"optionalActivityList":{"description":"Osh - Bazaar - Free"}}},{"id":10731,"created_at":"2020-10-10T17:35:16.000000Z","updated_at":"2022-07-05T20:02:52.000000Z","title":"Day 9: Border crossing \u2013 Andijan \u2013 Tashkent","image_url":null,"description":"This morning, drive to Kyrgyz-Uzbek border, which is just outside of the city. After passing through the border control (approximately 1\u20132 hours), farewell and thank your Kyrgyz guide and meet your new Uzbek guide. Transfer to Andijan and board a local train to Tashkent (approximately 5.5 hours). The train is a great place to meet locals, so don\u2019t be surprised if people want to chat to the chet ellik (foreigner). Arrive in the evening and check into the hotel.","sort":8,"tour_id":865,"ref_parts_id":"9","extra":{"meals":{"dinnersIncluded":0,"lunchesIncluded":0,"breakfastsIncluded":"1"},"accommodationList":{"description":"Hotel","numberOfNights":"1"},"includedActivityList":[],"optionalActivityList":[]}}],"destinations":[{"name":"Kyrgyzstan","id":115},{"name":"Turkmenistan","id":222},{"name":"Uzbekistan","id":235}],"destinations_arr":[{"city":"","country":"Kyrgyzstan"},{"city":"","country":"Turkmenistan"},{"city":"","country":"Uzbekistan"}],"departures_arr":[{"month":"April 2023","items":[{"start":"2023-04-21","end":"2023-05-16","sortdate":20230421,"price":7895,"currency_code":"AUD","member_discount_price":7501,"month":"April 2023"}]},{"month":"May 2023","items":[{"start":"2023-05-09","end":"2023-06-03","sortdate":20230509,"price":8215,"currency_code":"AUD","member_discount_price":7805,"month":"May 2023"},{"start":"2023-05-16","end":"2023-06-10","sortdate":20230516,"price":8530,"currency_code":"AUD","member_discount_price":8104,"month":"May 2023"},{"start":"2023-05-26","end":"2023-06-20","sortdate":20230526,"price":8530,"currency_code":"AUD","member_discount_price":8104,"month":"May 2023"}]},{"month":"June 2023","items":[{"start":"2023-06-13","end":"2023-07-08","sortdate":20230613,"price":8215,"currency_code":"AUD","member_discount_price":7805,"month":"June 2023"}]},{"month":"August 2023","items":[{"start":"2023-08-15","end":"2023-09-09","sortdate":20230815,"price":7895,"currency_code":"AUD","member_discount_price":7501,"month":"August 2023"},{"start":"2023-08-29","end":"2023-09-23","sortdate":20230829,"price":7895,"currency_code":"AUD","member_discount_price":7501,"month":"August 2023"}]},{"month":"September 2023","items":[{"start":"2023-09-01","end":"2023-09-26","sortdate":20230901,"price":7895,"currency_code":"AUD","member_discount_price":7501,"month":"September 2023"},{"start":"2023-09-08","end":"2023-10-03","sortdate":20230908,"price":7910,"currency_code":"AUD","member_discount_price":7515,"month":"September 2023"},{"start":"2023-09-15","end":"2023-10-10","sortdate":20230915,"price":7910,"currency_code":"AUD","member_discount_price":7515,"month":"September 2023"},{"start":"2023-09-19","end":"2023-10-14","sortdate":20230919,"price":8215,"currency_code":"AUD","member_discount_price":7805,"month":"September 2023"},{"start":"2023-09-26","end":"2023-10-21","sortdate":20230926,"price":8215,"currency_code":"AUD","member_discount_price":7805,"month":"September 2023"},{"start":"2023-09-29","end":"2023-10-24","sortdate":20230929,"price":8215,"currency_code":"AUD","member_discount_price":7805,"month":"September 2023"}]},{"month":"October 2023","items":[{"start":"2023-10-03","end":"2023-10-28","sortdate":20231003,"price":7910,"currency_code":"AUD","member_discount_price":7515,"month":"October 2023"}]}],"tour_type":2,"type_id":2,"style_rating":"Original","ref_url":"https:\/\/www.intrepidtravel.com\/trips\/KFSRC"}} catch (error) {}