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Kazakhstan/Kyrgyzstan/Uzbekistan/Tajikistan/Turkmenistan

On the Silk Road in Central Asia

Program No. 18766RJ
Join experts to discover the preserved ruins, grand cities and cultural monuments that line the Silk Road, discovering how this ancient trade route altered the course of human history.
Program
At a Glance
Duration
20 days
Program Begins
Almaty
Program Concludes
Ashgabat
Group Type
Small Group
Meals
46 ( 18B, 16L, 12D )
Activity Level
Two thousand years ago, an extraordinary network of routes stretched from China to Europe, a lifeline for caravans carrying precious silk, porcelain and spices across vast steppe of Central Asia. This was the legendary Silk Road. When adventurous Europeans embarked on their own journeys eastward, they brought back knowledge that profoundly changed the destiny of Western Civilization. On this unique expedition, you'll retrace these historic pathways, experiencing firsthand the rich history, vibrant cultures and welcoming people that connect the living cities and ancient ruins along this monumental artery of discovery.
Best of all, you'll...
  • Share tea with a sixth-generation ceramics master and enjoy a private exploration of his studio.
  • Discuss archaeological excavations at the Bukhara Ark Citadel with a local specialist.
  • Enjoy a performance of Kyrgyz Manas folk tradition in Bishkek.
General Notes
Listening devices are not available for this program.
All Experts
Please Note:
These experts may not be available for every date of the program
Born and raised in the capital city of Uzbekistan, Tashkent, Batir Shamakhsudov has been a popular leader in Central Asia since 1997. Earning an honors degree in English from the Uzbek State World Languages University in Tashkent, he has worked as an interpreter as well as an English teacher at the Tashkent State Institute of Law. With his excellent English, Uzbek and Russian, insider knowledge and great sense of humor, Batir is one of our favorite leaders in Central Asia.
Abdugolib Samadov — born in Samarkand, Uzbekistan — is full of inside information about his hometown and country. He has studied in England and in the U.S., and is fluent in English, Farsi, and Russian. In addition to leading travelers throughout Uzbekistan, Abdu works with MIR’s affiliate office in Uzbekistan and enjoys sharing his knowledge with other travelers. He has worked in the hospitality and tourism business for nearly 20 years.
Activity Level
Let's Go!
Walking 2-4 miles per day on sidewalks, streets, packed dirt, and cobblestones. Some stairs, with/without handrails. Standing up to two hours at a time. Several long travel days up to 8 hours driving. Multiple border crossings, some may require traveling a relatively long distance on foot (up to ½ mile) while handling your own baggage without assistance. Elevations up to 9,000 feet (brief mountain pass).
Small Group (13 to 24)
Love to learn and explore in a small-group setting? These adventures offer small, personal experiences with groups of 13 to 24 participants.
Suggested Books and Resources
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You can also find many of the books we recommend at the Road Scholar store on bookshop.org, a website that supports local bookstores.
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Assurance Plan

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Sustainable Travel

We offset a portion of the emissions created by your travel. Read about our commitment to a more sustainable planet.