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Central Asia Silk Road Adventure in Kyrgyzstan & Uzbekistan (including the World Nomad Games)
World Nomad Games
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This trip supports
- Overview
- Itinerary
- Esential info
- Reviews
- Packing list
Grade:
Entry Level
Type:
Cultural
Transfers
Duration:
19 Nights
10 - 12
Group size
Leaders
Tour Highlights
- Explore the ancient Silk Road cities of Khiva, Samarkand and Bukhara
- Watch a nomadic eagle hunting display
- Option to watch theatrical performance at Samarkand Theatre of Historical Costume
- Enjoy dinner at the home of a local Uigur or Dungan family
- Visit mosques, madrassas, and mausoleums of Uzbekistan
- Option to horse ride around Song Kol Lake
Add on Adventures
This itinerary has options for you to extend & customise your experience before &/or after your holiday. See Itinerary for details.
A Silk Road journey through Kyrgyzstan's lakes, Uzbekistan's Ancient Cities & Tajikistan's Pamir Mountains
Delve deep into the heart of Central Asia, where ancient history and breathtaking landscapes intertwine: This adventure strikes the prefect balance of cultural exploration, and the wild, untamed beauty of the historic Silk Road.
Begin in Kyrgyzstan, where you will venture into the towering mountainous landscape in the land of nomadic herders with awe-inspiring views. Circumnavigate the beautiful alpine lakes of Issyk-Kul and Song Kul where you can experience the warmth of local hospitality and the beauty of nature.
Whether walking or horseback riding through the heart of this country encircled by towering mountains, you’ll be immersed in the timeless nomadic way of life, with chances to connect with local families and enjoy their delicious home-cooked Kyrgyz food.
Your journey will then lead you to discover the other-worldly turquoise-tiled madrassas, ornate palaces with hidden haram courtyards, desert cities, mosques, mausoleums and bustling bazaars of the ancient cities of Uzbekistan, which flourished in prosperity, culture, trade and religion as a vital section of the ancient Silk Road linking China to Europe.
Tamerlaine founded the Timurid Empire in the 14th Century, which brought this architectural magnificence (and also later via the Timurid Renaissance) seldom rivalled, especially seen in Bukhara, Samarkand & Khiva.
For information on Tajikistan please see the optional add-on adventure below:
“…But it was not until the fourteenth century that Samarkand took on the appearance we now associate with it – the souring minarets and the domes of glistening turquoise and cobalt blue. Tamerlane’s long rein, from 1370 to 1405, was almost entirely taken up by military campaigns, but in the course of conquering most of the known world he never forgot his beloved capital, and always sent back the best artists and craftsmen of the countries he had defeated, together with vast armies of slaves for the manual work."
Kathleen Hopkirk's Central Asia - through writer's eyes (1993).
Adventure Optional Addons
Tajikistan Silk Road add-on adventure (including pre tour night in Tashkent)
Addon Optional extras
Single Supplement
Single rooms may not be possible when in guesthouses or in yurts.
Add on Adventures
This itinerary has options for you to extend & customise your experience before &/or after your holiday. See below for details.
Day 1: Arrival in Bishkek (Kyrgyzstan)
Transfer
Breakfast
Dinner
4 star hotel
Most international airlines arrive into Bishkek early in the morning. Upon landing, you will be transferred to your hotel to check in - early-check ins with breakfast are included. You have the morning to rest after your travel.
In the afternoon, you will meet your guide and embark on a walking tour of Bishkek. The capital of Kyrgyzstan, also known as the ‘White City’, is a fascinating city with vast plazas and dramatic monuments from the Soviet Era. It gets the name 'White City' because many of the government buildings that were built in Soviet times from the beautiful, locally mined white marble.
Our local tour guide will give us a welcome introduction to both the city and the history of the country. Together you will explore the city’s highlights, including:
- The National Philharmonic Hall, beautifully framed by statues of Manaschy
- Ala Too Square, with its striking statue of Manas
- The State Historical Museum
- Oak Park, a leafy haven in the heart of the city
- The Museum of Fine Arts
- The Frunze Museum
- ZUM, the city’s central department store
- Victory Square, a moving tribute to the past
The day will conclude with dinner at a local restaurant.
Accommodation: Plaza Hotel or similar
Day 2: Stay in Bishkek for the World Nomad Games opening ceremony
Transfer
Breakfast
Dinner
4 star hotel
There will be lots of events going on around the city to explore today before we enjoy the incredible spectacle of the World Nomad Games Opening Ceremony and show.
Accommodation: Plaza Hotel or similar
Day 3: Drive to Chopon Alta for the World Nomad Games
Transfer
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Boutique Hotel
Drive to the northern shore of Issyk-Kul, a saline lake 113 miles long. In the Kyrgyz language, the name means ‘warm lake’ as, despite the ring of snow capped mountains surrounding it, it never freezes due to the salt content. Our homestay is near the shores of the glistening lake - so large that its turquoise waters often look like the Mediterranean.
On-route visit the restored 11th century Burana Tower in Tokmok.
Day at the World Nomad Games
- Horse racing
- Kok Boru, a dramatic horseback game often compared to polo
- Wrestling
- Archery
- Falconry
Alongside the sporting events, the atmosphere will be enriched with music, dance and cultural exhibitions, offering a wonderful insight into the heritage of the nomadic peoples.
Please note that the final programme of events you will see will be confirmed closer to the time.
Accommodation: Meridian Hotel or similar
Day 4: World Nomad Games
Transfer
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Boutique Hotel
Day at the World Nomad Games.
Today is dedicated to the World Nomad Games, an extraordinary celebration of nomadic culture and tradition. Guests will have the chance to witness thrilling competitions such as:
- Horse racing
- Kok Boru, a dramatic horseback game often compared to polo
- Wrestling
- Archery
- Falconry
Alongside the sporting events, the atmosphere will be enriched with music, dance and cultural exhibitions, offering a wonderful insight into the heritage of the nomadic peoples.
Please note that the final programme of events you will see will be confirmed closer to the time.
Accommodation: Meridian Hotel or similar
Day 5: World Nomad Games
Transfer
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Boutique Hotel
Day at the World Nomad Games.
Today is dedicated to the World Nomad Games, an extraordinary celebration of nomadic culture and tradition. Guests will have the chance to witness thrilling competitions such as:
- Horse racing
- Kok Boru, a dramatic horseback game often compared to polo
- Wrestling
- Archery
- Falconry
Alongside the sporting events, the atmosphere will be enriched with music, dance and cultural exhibitions, offering a wonderful insight into the heritage of the nomadic peoples.
Please note that the final programme of events you will see will be confirmed closer to the time.
Accommodation: Meridian Hotel or similar
Day 6: Drive to Son Kul Lake
Transfer
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Yurt
Heading south we will stop at Kochkor carpet warehouse in order to peruse their delightful wares.
Lunch will be with a local Kyrgyz family in Kochkor.
Our final destination of the day will be Son Kul, the spectacular 3016 meter altitude mountain lake surrounded by a ring of mountains, used as summer pastures for many local nomadic Kyrgyz shepherds and families.
There, we will be welcomed by our hosts and enjoy a traditional dinner and maybe the odd vodka toast!
You will stay in traditional yurts with wood burners in the middle keeping you nice and cosy!
Accommodation at yurt camp: simple-basic conditions, shared outside facilities, 3-4pax in one yurt.
Accommodation: Ulush Yurt Camp (shared yurts) or similar
Day 7: Exploring Son Kul Lake
Transfer
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Yurt
Today we will walk or horse ride (optional and payable locally) around the lake visiting the local nomadic communities and/or up into the hills looking for petroglyphs and enjoy the mind-blowing views over the lake. Those wishing to relax can hang out at the camp and enjoy some down time. Or you might like to visit the local shepherds and try a taste of kumis (fermented mare’s milk).
Accommodation at yurt camp: simple-basic conditions, shared outside facilities, 3-4pax in one yurt.
Accommodation: Ulush Yurt Camp (shared yurts) or similar
Day 8: Tash Rabat Caravanserai
Transfer
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Yurt
After breakfast and a farewell to our beautiful lakeside home, we will travel down and further south into the mountains and one of the main Silk Road routes, from the Chinese border. The route winds its way over several high passes and through multiple valleys of the Tian Shan Mountains (The Mountains of Heaven) before reaching the safe-haven of the ancient Caravanserai at Tash Rabat.
Here the camel trains could be unloaded and shepherded into the large structure (rebuilt by the Soviets in the style of the original Caravanserai) safe from both bandits and the elements - to trade, chat, drink tea, play music and/or quarrel with other travellers sharing this place of refuge for the night.
Accommodation at yurt camp: simple-basic conditions, shared outside facilities, 3-4pax in one yurt.
Accommodation: Yurt Camp Nazira (shared yurts) or similar
Day 9: Tash Rabat to Kazarman
Transfer
Breakfast
Dinner
Guest house
Today we have a long drive but through some really stunning mountain scenery. We’ll stop on route for a picnic lunch and the odd photo opportunity. Arriving in the small village of Kazarman this evening, we’ll stay with a local family and enjoy some of their home-cooking. Kazarman is located near the famous Makmal gold mine and you will have time to explore this stunningly situated village and surrounding area with sweeping mountainous panoramic views of the region.
Driving distance: 300km, 6 hours approx.
Accommodation: CBT House (twin accommodation so no single rooms) or similar
Day 10: Kazarman to Djalal Abad
Transfer
Breakfast
Packed Lunch
Dinner
4 star hotel
This morning, after breakfast, we’ll drive over Kaldama Ashuu pass, which at 3062m offers some amazing views. We'll stop in Djalal-Abad, one of Kyrgyzstan’s main branches of the Silk Road. Djalal-Abad and the region has played host to travellers for thousands of years, although little archaeological remains are visible today, except in some of the more remote parts such as Saimaluu Tash and the Chatkal valley.
Djalal Abad is famous for its spas; there is the legend that the water from the Hozret-Ayub-Paigambar spa cured lepers. According to the legend there was a grave, a mosque and the khan’s palace near the spa. The Djalal-Abad sanatoria, “Kurort”, is based on one of the spas which sits atop the hills overlooking the town. Though the waters are salty people still come from surrounding areas to collect bottles of it and see the sanatoria.
Accommodation:Dastan Grand Hotel or similar
Day 11: Djalal Abad to Osh
Transfer
Breakfast
Dinner
Boutique Hotel
Breakfast at hotel, then a transfer to Ancient city of Osh, where we’ll visit Solomon’s Throne 'Sulaiman-Too' - the rock that looms over the city and is an important Muslim pilgrimage site protected by UNESCO.
On route stop at Uzgen. The town is mentioned in Chinese annals of the second century BC. It was one of the capitals of the Karakhanids, who called it Mavarannahr and left three well-preserved mausoleums. Uzgen became the abode of Muhammad Nasr during the Kara-Khanid and split into two branches. Visit Uzgen minarets and local bazar. The village is also famous for producing a special type of rice.
Upon arrival to Osh, the second-largest city in Kyrgyzstan, enjoy a brief city tour visiting the main highlights before stopping for dinner, enjoying traditional cuisine and hospitality.
Accommodation: Classic Hotel or similar
DAY 12: Osh to Dustlik & Tashkent (Uzbekistan)
Train
Transfer
Breakfast
Dinner
4 star hotel
After breakfast transfer to the Uzbek/Kyrgyz border point Dustlik. Continuing by road to Andijan, a journey of around 45 km taking approximately 1 to 1.5 hours.
On arrival, enjoy a guided tour of Andijan, including a visit to the Babur Museum and the tranquil Babur Park. Stroll along the street of craftspeople, where traditional skills are still very much alive and take time to explore the vibrant local bazaar, full of colour, character and everyday life.
Later, transfer to the railway station to board train no. 729 to Tashkent (15:09/21:17). Upon arrival, you will be met and transferred to your hotel for check in.
Dinner boxes will be provided for the journey.
Accommodation: Ichan Kala Hotel or similar
Day 13: Tashkent to Nukus & Khiva
Flights
Transfer
Breakfast
Dinner
Boutique Hotel
Transfer to the Airport for flight HY-11 TAS/NCU 07h15/08h55 - national flight included in the price.
Arrive in Nukus where we will visit the Museum of Fine Arts by Savitsky - a treasure of art with a rich collection of paintings from the epoch of Soviet Avant-Guard and Post Avant-Guard which had been collected by Igor Savitsky, who managed to save more than 50,000 works of Soviet art from the 1920s and 30s from communist destruction.
Later, proceed to the desert forts of Toprak Kala and Ayaz Kala on route to the jewel of a city that is Khiva (250 km, 4-5 hrs drive). Take a night walk along the ancient streets soaking up the magnificent illuminated mosques, minarets and madrassahs, before enjoying a delightful dinner in a local restaurant.
Accommodation: Hotel Zarafshon or similar
Day 14: Exploring Khiva (with optional bicycle tour)
Transfer
Breakfast
Dinner
Boutique Hotel
Spend the day exploring enchanting Khiva. Visit Ichan Kala, the architectural complex of the inner city, surrounded by a large fortress wall with four gates. There are more than sixty architectural monuments: palaces, mosques, madrassahs, minarets and mausoleums inside the inner town - Muhammed Aminkhan Madrassah and its minaret; Kunya Ark and Juma Mosque with 218 pillars which stands as one of the most ancient structures in Central Asia; Tash Khauli palace (the Harem of Khiva Khans); The Mausoleum of Pakhlavan Makhmud; Islam Khodja complex and many other incredible monuments along the way in this remarkable city.
Optional bicycle tour:
The bicycles are now located in Lokomotiv Park (not in Icahn Kala itself) as it is paved ground and uncomfortable to ride. The park is located 500 meters away from Ichan Kala, and you can walk there to collect your bike. After the tour, you will have some free time and everyone can ride bicycles and pay the rental fee on the spot. Our guide will help to book in advance.
Accommodation: Hotel Zarafshon or similar
Day 15: Khiva to Bukhara
Transfer
Breakfast
Dinner
Boutique Hotel
Depart for Bukhara via Kyzylkum desert (450 km/7-8 hrs).
There is a train that runs through the desert but it takes longer and often the AC doesn't work so we've opted to drive this stretch - time to look out the window, nap, read a book, chat with the group, take notes and reflect on the huge distances the ancient Caravanserai needed to cross (occasionally perilously). Recommended books to bring on this adventure are: Kathleen Hopkirk's Central Asia - through writer's eyes (1993) & Peter Hopkirk's The Great Game: On Secret Service in High Asia (1990).
Passing through Kyzylkum Desert (translated as red sands) parallel to the Amu Darya River, one of the largest rivers in Central Asia. The river runs through Uzbekistan and its neighbours Afghanistan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan and Turkmenistan plus we will have a glimpse of the border of Turkmenistan, stopping at a gorgeous location where the water reflects the blue sky. There will be pitstops for bathroom breaks and lunch.
Dinner and overnight stay at the hotel.
Accommodation: Hotel Omar Khayyam or similar
Day 16: Exploring Bukhara
Transfer
Breakfast
Dinner
Boutique Hotel
The architectural heritage of Bukhara is very rich – caravanserais and trading domes, public baths and big pools, defensive walls and city gates, khanakas and mausoleums, mosques and madrassahs, individual structures and big complexes. Decorative methods, designs of historical splendour and original architectural ideas, will strike the imagination of any visitor.
Today, we have a full day tour of Bukhara exploring the Lyabi-Khauz Complex consisting of the 17th Century Nodir-Divan-beghi madrassah, the 16th Century Kukeldash madrassah and 17th Century Khonako and Magoki-Attari mosques.
Visit the local bazaars housed in the restored ‘trading domes’ of the 14th to 17th century: Tok-i-Zargaron; Jeweler’s bazaar, Tok-i-Tilpak Furushon; the Cap-Maker’s Bazaar, Tok-i-Sarrafon; the Moneychanger’s Bazaar; Madrassah of Ulugbek was built during the time of Ulugbek, in spite of its modest facade it differs from the rest because of its exquisite decoration. You will also visit the famous ceramic centre of Gijduvan (40km outside the city) and in Bukhara you will be guided to the famous Suzani fabrics and workshop. We end a glorious day enjoying a folk performance at the Nodir Divan Begi Madrassah before dinner at a local restaurant.
Accommodation: Hotel Omar Khayyam or similar
Day 17: Bukhara to Samarkand
Train
Transfer
Breakfast
Dinner
Boutique Hotel
After breakfast, we will take an excursion to Sitora-i-Mokhi-Khosa, the summer residence of the last Emir of Bukhara, it's delicate architecture mirrored in the adjoining lake. We then continue exploring the city's monuments including the Bolo-Khauz mosque; Fortress Ark (citadel), a fortified residence of Emirs of Bukhara; the 14th Century Chashma-Ayub shrine - its name means 'Job's Well', due to the legend in which Job (Ayub) visited this place and made a well by striking the ground with his staff. The water of this well is still pure and is considered to have healing properties.
The Samanids Mausoleum considered a masterpiece of Central Asian architecture, and Chor Minor, a colourful madrassah with four peculiar looking towers and was used as a library for students. Before ‘architecture fatigue’ can set in we will whisk you away to the railway station for a high-speed train from Afrosiab to Samarkand where you can check into your hotel.
OPTIONAL: Possible theatrical performance at an extra charge, TBC dependant on schedule
Accommodation: Hotel Aliz Boulevard Hotel or similar
Day 18: Exploring Samarkand including winery visit
Breakfast
Dinner
Boutique Hotel
First stop today is the unmissable Reqistan, square surrounded by the three splendid madrassahs, which were intersected by six main trade routes in the time of Timur. The oldest Ulugbek madrassah with its blue tilled facade built in the 15th Century. Two centuries later the Sher-Dor madrassah was built with the similar blue tilled facade, and also the Tillya-Kari madrassah was finished, allowing the square to be harmoniously completed. Today Registan square is considered to be the most beautiful square in Central Asia (if not the world!).
The Bibi Khanym Mosque, named after one of Timur’s beloved wives, is a little further on the necropolis of Shakhi Zinda and is one of the holiest pilgrimage places in Uzbekistan. The huge gate and 70 m long staircase leads us to the alley between nearly 20 mausoleums. Here we have the finest works, in glazed ceramics, of Central Asian and Islamic art.
Visit a local Uzbek house where you have an opportunity to get acquainted with the local customs and traditions deeply rooted in the oriental hospitality. Furthermore, you have a chance to participate in cooking Pilov, the national Uzbek dish. A warm and friendly atmosphere and a delicious dinner served by the mistress of the house will be an excellent souvenir of the trip.
Optional wine tasting:
Join an organised winery tour. Additional fee for visiting TBC.
Accommodation: Hotel Aliz Boulevard Hotel or similar
Day 19: Samarkand to Tashkent
Train
Transfer
Breakfast
Dinner
4 star hotel
After breakfast, continue the tour of Samarkand with a visit to the Mausoleum of Gur-Emir of Timur himself - also known as Tamerlane (1320s – 18th February 1405) - and his descendants. The octagonal complex with marble and onyx interior and a gold ceiling was completed in 1404. We will also visit the excavation site of Afrosiab and Museum; Saint Daniel’s tomb; unique Observatory of Ulugbek Timur’s grandson.
Continuing our tour, we will take a look at the Samarkand Handmade Silk Paper Center “Meros” where the artisans have revived the ancient tradition of the hand-made paper production and reintroduced Samarkand Paper to the world.
In the evening, transfer to the railway station to take a high-speed train ‘’Afrosiyab’’ to Tashkent to enjoy a short panoramic tour of the modern part of the city - Earthquake memorial; Amir Temur Square; Independence Square and Theatre Square before our last full group dinner together recounting a whirlwind of incredible memories!
Accommodation: Ichan Kala Hotel or similar
Day 20: Tashkent and onward travel - or stay on for the Tajikistan Add-On Adventure
Transfer
Breakfast
You will be transferred to the airport for your flight home today.
Alternatively, you may choose to spend an additional night in Tashkent before flying to Dushanbe the following morning on Uzbekistan Airways HY717, departing at 08:00 and arriving at 09:00. This flight is not included in the adventure cost and must be booked independently. From Dushanbe, you will begin the city tour.
Adventure Optional Extras
Single Supplement
Single rooms may not be possible when in guesthouses or in yurts.
Visit of El Merosi Theatre in Samarkand (price per person)
Horseback riding at Son Kul (price per person 1-2 hours)
Samarkand Chovrenko winery tour
Additional night in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan (twin room)
Additional night in Tashkent (twin room)
Private Transfer from/to Tashkent Airport (1-3 people)
Private Transfer from/to Bishkek Airport (1-3 people)
Plant an additional 15 trees for your adventure
Carbon Compensation is not the perfect solution, and it is important to first reduce our carbon emissions as much as we can, yet trees remain an excellent natural technology to sequester carbon dioxide from the atmosphere to slow global warming.
For every client and guide who attends a YellowWood Adventure, we donate £30 to our partner charity WeForest to plant 15 trees to (over) compensate for the carbon footprint of the tour.
We also invite our clients to match this with an optional additional £30 for another 15 trees to be planted to help compensate for the carbon footprint of their international flights.
WeForest run many tree planting and tree maintenance projects such as this seedling nursery in the Amhara region of Ethiopia, the Amazon Rainforest in Brazil and many other projects in other countries including Zambia, Malawi, Tanzania & India.
Click Here to find out more about their amazing projects around the world.
Not Included
- International flights & airport taxes
- Insurance (compulsory)
- Transfers outside our group transfer timings
- Visas
- Alcoholic drinks
- Tips
- Costs for optional activities
Adventure Optional Addons
Tajikistan Silk Road add-on adventure (including pre tour night in Tashkent)
Addon Optional extras
Single Supplement
Single rooms may not be possible when in guesthouses or in yurts.
Contents
Accommodation
We fully believe in, and practice, Responsible Tourism, using hotels run by locals. We put time and effort into building our relationship with them to ensure you have a a great trip.
We choose hotels based on cleanliness, comfort, safety, proximity to our route (to avoid unnecessary extra travel), and a warm client welcome, as well as reliability in their service to us. Some hotels will be basic, and in modern buildings and or in towns. Wherever we can, we will choose smaller more characterful, individual hotels, but in areas where tourism is still developing, this may not be available.
An aspect of our adventures is to escape the ‘trappings’ of modern Western lifestyles and to experience new things which is exciting and memorable, and reflects the countries we are visiting.
This is adventure travel and on occasion the advertised services at a hotel, guesthouse or camp (eg wifi, or hot showers!) may not be functional on our arrival. This tends to occur in the smaller, more remote places. Very rarely a hotel lets us down and we are required to find alternative suitable accommodation that might not be our first choice.
This accommodation on this adventure involves both hotel stays and camping in Yurts. Where hotels and refuges are fully booked or unavailable, we will use an alternative of a similar standard, and equally well situated. We will provide you with an accurate list of accommodation prior to departure on your adventure.
Facilities
Unless you have booked a single room (where they are available) and paid the single room supplement for those nights, you will be sharing a twin room with another client (of the same gender).
Guiding & Your Group
Supporting you on your holiday will be two experienced, approachable and knowledgeable English speaking local guides, one in Uzbekistan and one in Kyrgystan.
This ensures you the perfect balance of information and support on your trip, offering insight into local life and customs, as well as routes during hiking.
Your Group
Your group will be any number from our minimum group size of 10, up to a maximum of 15 clients. This number works really well with the ratio of guides, and ensures an optimal level of service to you during your adventure.
We get clients booking alone, as couples and in small groups of friends.
Am I fit enough?
Your itinerary involves some walking over rough terrain and some optional trekking, cycling and horse riding.
To get the most of out of this adventure, you therefore need to be a regular walker and in good physical condition. You do not need to be experienced in trekking, however. Any hiking is undertaken at the natural pace of the group, with regular stops.
You will be carrying just a day pack and bottle of water.
As with all active holidays, the fitter you are, the more you can relax and enjoy the stunning route, and the better you can cope with challenges such as the outside elements.
Travel & Arrival
Finding flights
Flights are not included in the cost of your holiday, and whilst we are happy to help advise you, responsibility for booking the correct flights rests with you. We recommend that you use a comparison tool such as www.momondo.co.uk or www.skyscanner.net when searching for flights. We will send you a Flight Information Sheet with further pointers on which flights to book for your adventure.
Foreign Travel Advice
For the latest travel advice from the Foreign Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO), including security and local laws, plus passport and visa information, check www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice. We also receive notifications direct from the FCDO so we are always aware of the ‘status’ in our destination countries.
Airport & Arrival Info
You will be met at the airport by a local driver.
Included in the cost of your adventure is a group transfer to and from the airport.
Group transfers are only available on the official start and end dates of the trip. Arriving or departing on any other days means group transfers will not be included. If you plan to arrive before or after the adventure dates and need assistance with transfers or accommodation, please add these services when booking, or contact us directly to make the arrangements.
Once you have made a booking, you will be prompted to complete a travel information form where you can provide us with your exact flight times and details. This will enable us to organise your private transfers accordingly. Please note that private transfers may be subject to availability.
You are also welcome to book your travel independently, and we will provide clear instructions on how to meet the group at the designated time and location at the start of your trip.
Insurance
Holiday insurance is essential for all Yellow Wood Adventures. Unfortunately, anyone without insurance is not able to take part in the holiday, so please make sure you arrange cover. We recommend arranging your insurance cover when you book so that if you have problems during the run up to your holiday, and need to cancel, you are covered.
YellowWood partners with battleface as a travel insurance provider. Click here for a quote.
battleface insurance is provided in the UK by battleface Insurance Services Limited, a UK insurance intermediary authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. Details provided on this webpage are for information only. Terms, conditions, exclusions, and limitations apply. Always read the description of cover contained within your policy to ensure it is suitable for your needs.
Prior to the holiday, we will ask you to send us details of your insurer, policy number, 24 hour emergency assistance contact details and the name, address, and telephone numbers of your NOK or persons to be notified in the event of an emergency.
You must ensure the travel insurance you purchase provides you with suitable cover for the entirety of your trip. Your travel insurance must include cover in the event that you have to cancel for a reason outside your control prior to departure, for any medical expenses you may incur whilst away (including repatriation in the case of medical need) and for the activities which you may participate in during your trip.
General information on Uzbekistan & Kyrgystan
For more information, such as climate, weather, language, social norms, food & drink etc, please have a read of our country specific information for Uzbekistan & Kyrgyzstan.
Reviews
Christine J
This company goes the extra mile
This company employs staff who go the extra mile to ensure you have a memorable trip. Their attention to detail is exemplary and their availability when responding to queries is instant. They must have staff on duty 24hrs a day.
The in- country guides (Uzbekistan) are very knowledgeable and have a genuine desire to ensure everyone is looked after and able to get the most from the tour.
We were taken to many interesting and off the beaten track places which made the trip very special.
Although the temperature in Uzbekistan was dropping after their scorching summer, it was still very hot by UK standards and a little more down time in the heat of the day would have got our vote. High quality hotels were used and we appreciate the company using local and family run hotels rather than the international chains. Excellent choice of restaurants and I appreciated Kamol’s efforts to find me vegetarian options. Would absolutely use YellowWood Adventures again. Thank you team
The undiscovered Silk Road of Uzbekistan September 2025
Marcia Mauter
Walking the Nomadic Steps and Steppes Nomadic culture has always held a fascination, ever since my 4th grade geography class years ago! My recent one month sojourn to Kyrgyzstan fulfilled that dream for me. Yellowwood Adventures was the final week of my educational fellowship, and proved to be a rich immersion into cultural, historical, and wilderness areas. There was so much to see, learn, and experience as we slowly navigated through people and place. Whether viewing mountains in all their glory along foot trails in the National Park.....on horseback in the high pass.....or out the window of our vehicle as we motored to different areas, in was all breathtaking. And what memorable moments were created along the way as we: Shared broad swaths of jailoo (summer pastures) with many hooves and a cacophony of animal sounds. Traveled the Silk Road, our imaginations on fire, as we mentally pictured travel and commerce and influence of past centuries. Absorbed the eagle man’s knowledge, skill and eagle hunting way of life. Traded the comforts and coziness of my USA home for those of a rustic and snug yurt. Learned the ancient craft of rug making and design, from sheep to shop. Explored local foods and flavors of nomadic tribes. Shared tea and snacks - but not a common language! - with the local women who enthusiastically approved of my in-the-moment and authentic clothing purchase at the on site gift shop. And so much more! I was a solo traveler, and my guide El, was not only delightful company, and logistically conscientious, but provided the necessary English translation that helped me optimize my experience. Our driver was a joy as well and safely and comfortably saw us through many road miles. Together, the three of us made for a great team! I'm so grateful that this part of the world opened up for me in all the ways that it did. Even in our briefest of stays, we know that it is these kinds of experiences that change not only our worldview, but change us for the better.
In the Footsteps of the Nomads of Kyrgyzstan (Bespoke Tour) - May 2024
T Corrigan
Our family of 4 (including two teenage kids) had a fantastic adventure in Kyrgyzstan organised by YellowWood Adventures.
Every question was answered before the trip greatly reducing our concerns.
Both our guide and driver were very friendly and would go out of their way to ensure had a great trip. The mini bus was always clean, waiting and ready to go. Hotels were always clean but ranged from basic to luxury.
Absolutely loved the country, the views and the people especially, who were super friendly
Bespoke Adventure October 2022
Steve Reels
Although this was a group tour Sam provided a very personalised service, particularly through the booking process and through his obvious concern during the trip that all within the group were enjoying the experience. The opportunity to stay with a local family in their yurts and eat food prepared by them was really special. When I think of this trip I am recalling great times in enormous empty landscapes that brought exhilaration and tranquillity in equal measure. Highly recommended.
Footsteps of Nomads, 2022
Pippa Sanders
I booked the trip as a spontaneous, last minute decision and have no regrets! From my initial enquiry to the final airport transfer the Yellow Wood team were friendly, prompt and professional. I loved being off the beaten track in Kyrgyzstan and given the chance to explore such a beautiful country and learn about its history and culture under the care of Yellow Wood and local guides.
In the Footsteps of Nomads (prev. Great Lakes Adventure), 2019
Chris Baxter
Kyrgyzstan is a spectacular country with snow capped mountains always on the horizon and sweeping plains between, with herds of livestock and wonderful flora.
In the Footsteps of Nomads (prev. Great Lakes Adventure), 2018
Annie Bird
A very enjoyable and varied tour to an unusual destination with a good balance of trekking, riding, culture and relaxation. Yurt hosts were excellent...
In the Footsteps of Nomads (prev. Great Lakes Adventure), 2019
Maria Tudorovskay
Very responsible organizers: I very much appreciate the enthusiasm of the team which gave me an opportunity to have such a great trip I wouldn't be able to accomplish on my own. I hope the company develops and opens new destinations whilst remaining just as approachable. Hope to remain your client!
Footsteps of Nomads (prev. Great Lakes Adventure), 2018
Receive a 15% discount off Water-to-Go filtration water-bottles to help reduce plastic waste.
Compulsory
- Passport & insurance documents
- US$ or £GB to exchange for local currency
- Credit / Debit card for ATMs in town
- Prescription medication & antibiotics such as Azithromycin to stop serious traveller's diarrhoea
- First aid kit: paracetamol, anti-diarrhoea tables, rehydration sachets, antihistamine cream, ibuprofen cream, thermometer & blister kit (eg plasters & zinc oxide tape).
- Insect repellent
- Feminine hygiene products as required.
- Flannel & Towel (ideally quick drying travel towel)
- Washbag & usual contents - small travel bottles please! Biodegradable multi purpose soap can be used for washing clothes & self.
- Toilet kit: toilet roll, wet wipes & ziplock bags for carrying paper out. Biodegradable wet wipe brands: Canny Mum, Close Pop & Travel Buddy.
- Standard suitcase or large rucksack or large duffel style bag are all suitable for your baggage for this adventure.
Items for Camping / Hiking
- Winter sleeping bag (0ºc comfort rating). Many of the yurt camps will have quilts and blankets but this is about planning for all eventualities. A liner (on optional list) can be used under provided bedding or you may prefer the hygiene/ comfort of your own bag.
- 20-30L rucksack with waist (& ideally chest) strap for hiking.
- Waterproof walking boots - already broken in...
- Waterproof stuff sacks & liners for both day sack and kit bag) to keep kit dry. Esp. important for sleeping bags & spare clothes
- Water-to-Go filtration water-bottle & additional storage water-bottle - ideally 2 litres per person
Clothing
- General socks / underwear for city sections and for walking.
- Suitable clothes/pjs for sleeping in. Thermal base layers are ideal when camping & also useful if you get cold weather.
- Light clothes for day time - long & short sleeved tops. NB technical fabrics dry quickly in hot or wet weather when hiking.
- Waking trousers for trekking / camping. Soft shell fabric is ideal.
- Shorts for warmer days
- Waterproof jacket (GoreTex or similar quality)
- Warm jacket & fleece - even in the summer temperatures can be sub zero at night. Down or synthetic insulated jacket & light fleece recommended.
- Sandals or trainers for around camps.
- Sunglasses & high factor sun cream
- Sun hat or baseball cap
- Lightweight waterproof trousers
- Warm hat & gloves
- Buff or neck gaiter for cold weather / sun protection. Light scarf useful for covering neck & shoulders.
If horse riding
- Half chaps
- Riding helmet (they will not be provided). Check your insurance policy which will likely be void if you do not wear a hat.
- Boots/ shoes suitable for riding (short boots are fine). Ideally you need to be able to slip out of them if you fall off (so walking boots are not suitable).
Optional
- Silk or thermal sleeping bag liner if you feel the cold.
- Inflatable pillow, or pillowcase you can stuff with spare clothes - adds comfort.
- Flask, if you enjoy hot drinks
- Camera & charging cables / plug
- Phone & charging cables / plug
- 2 prong adaptor
- Purification tablets as alternative to Aquapure Traveller Water Purification Bottle
- Spare ziplock bags for dirty clothes, waterproofing phones, rubbish & general organising.
- Walking poles
- Money belt
- Laundry hand washing gel
This trip supports
Need a little help?
All adventures can be tailored as private bespoke trips.
Please contact us for more information:
+44 207 846 0197
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The World Nomad Games in Kyrgyzstan 2026 - Closing Ceremony
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Booking Process
Select dates: Choose the dates for your adventure and consider adding any extra adventures or add-ons to enhance your experience.
Check the box to agree to our Terms & Conditions.
Make Booking: Click on "Make Booking." If you're booking more than 56 days before your adventure, you'll be redirected to secure WorldPay to make your deposit. If it's 56 days or less before your adventure, you'll need to make full payment. Rest assured, your money is held securely by the Association of Bonded Travel Organisers Trust.
Your booking will show as 'pending' in your YellowWood online account.
Confirmation: We'll be in touch as soon as possible to confirm your booking or discuss any availability limitations. Please refrain from booking transport or flights until we've emailed you to confirm your booking. (Note: Receipt of your booking form is not confirmation.)
Making payment: Once your booking is confirmed, we'll change the status of your final invoice from 'Pending Approval' to 'Outstanding,' indicating that it's ready for payment online.
You will receive a reminder email for your final payment 56 days before the departure date.
Feel free to contact us with any questions about your adventure or booking, we're here to help!
Grading
To help you choose the right adventure for you, we have given each itinerary a grading that relates to the level of Walking / Trekking you will experience during the trip. This grading can be found on the Yellow map on the adventure page of the website.
All of our trips involve a level of general activity so are designed for people who are in good health, enjoy the outdoors, and have a taste for adventure and some level of fitness. As will be clear from our destinations, the climate (and altitude) may be different to that which you are used to, so please take this into consideration when choosing the most suitable holiday.
Please read our Adventure Itinerary & Essential Information for more information and don't hesitate to contact us if you would like to chat through whether you have found a suitable adventure for you.
Grade 1-3: Entry Level
You need to be in good physical health to enjoy your active holiday, but you don’t need to be an experienced hiker. These itineraries offer a mix of sightseeing and easier walking for around 2-4hrs a day, with the emphasis on sights and cultural experiences.
Walks will be well marked or on defined pathways, and often around sites of interest. The expected amount of descent/ascent will depend on the landscapes of the destination, but will not exceed 400m/day, and will often be much less. Walks are at low altitude (below 3000m).
You will not be required to carry more than a day sack with water and essentials. Ensure you are aware of the weather conditions likely in the destination you are visiting and have a pair of comfortable and worn in walking shoes/boots.
Grades 4-6: Intermediate
You need to have a good level of fitness and be a regular walker for these adventures, with ideally some trekking experience. You can expect to be walking for 3-6 hours per day, not including rest stops, normally on good trail paths but with some uneven surfaces at times.
You will not be required to carry more than a day sack. You may be walking in more challenging temperatures. You will generally be walking at low altitude (below 3000m) but may walk at altitudes up to 4000m. The amount of ascent could be up to 800m in a day but will frequently be less. You may walk on consecutive days.
Ensure you are aware of the weather conditions likely in the destination you are visiting and have suitable clothing for this adventure.
Grades 7-9: Challenging
You need to have a good level of fitness with previous experience of trekking. Extra training before your trip will ensure that you get the most out of your adventure. Areas will be remote and terrain uneven.
Expect to walk for 5 – 8 hours a day, not including breaks, with some very steep ascents and descents. You will be walking at altitude (over 3000m but not higher than 5000m).
Ensure you are aware of the weather conditions likely in the destination you are visiting and have suitable equipment/clothing for this adventure (see the packing list for your adventure).
Please check individual itineraries for details of what you will need to be carrying with you.
Get in touch
CLICK HERE to schedule a call online with YellowWood Founder Sam McManus.
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