The Silk Road – definitely off the beaten track! For thousands of years this route has linked East and West, a route followed by traders in silk, spices and slaves, plus explorers interested in new ideas as much as new territories.
Modern day travellers will begin their journey in Uzbekistan’s capital – Tashkent before heading off to Samarkand, worth a trip by itself with it’s jewel-box of Islamic mosques, mausoleums and a fabulous observatory and, for a place pushing 3000 years old, remarkably lively. From the flatlands of Uzbekistan head to Kyrgyzstan’s rugged mountains and famous Lake Issyk Kul for restorative treatments.
Central Asia has many countries that end in “stan”, these are as exotic and foreign as you could imagine. With bustling markets selling silks, perfumes and kalashnikovs, ancient ruins, magnificent madrases and horrible Soviet monoliths – the contrasts are quite startling.
Experiences in this area
Trek Armenia The Transcaucasian Trail
Traverse the spectacular Transcaucasian trail and be part of a hiking movement Follow the spectacular Transcaucasian trail through the stunning mountain ranges of Armenia on this world-class, long-distance hike that traverses one of the most biologically and culturally diverse regions … Continue reading
Armenia to Georgia by Bike
Explore the South Caucasus at handlebar height Highlights Uncover the historic regional capitals of Yerevan and Tbilisi Cycle through the verdant Sno Valley & visit the majestic Gergeti Trinity Church Ride to the dramatically sited Khor Virap monastery in the … Continue reading
Ancient Silk Road Cities – The Five Stans
Discover the five former Soviet Republics of Central Asia Highlights Spring & Autumn departures provide optimal comfort & experience Take in the ancient Persian era fortress of Nisa Journey through the central Tian Shan Mountains to the Chychkan Gorge Immerse … Continue reading
Highlights of Tajikistan
Discover the highlights of Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan on this 18-day overland group tour which travels from Bishkek to Dushanbe. Take in the ancient city of Osh, hike to the summit of sacred Sulaiman-Too Mountain and camp on the shore of … Continue reading
Caucasus Discovered
Cross the Caucasus from Georgia to Azerbaijan on this 16 day overland adventure which starts in Tbilisi and ends in Baku. Discover the incredible Vardzia Cave Monastery, the lush scenery of Stepantsminda and the bubbling mud volcanoes of Gobustan. Stay … Continue reading
Kyrgyzstan Explorer
Take in the highlights of Kyrgyzstan on this 16 day overland group tour which also visits Tashkent and Fergana in Uzbekistan. Stay in a traditional yurt on the shore of Song Kol Lake, overland through the stunning Kyrgyz Fergana Valley … Continue reading
Trans Mongolian with Naadam Festival
Walk along the Great Wall, celebrate Mongolia’s greatest and most colourful festival, traverse the mighty Siberian landscape and explore Russia’s most exciting cities on this grand adventure. Itinerary Days 1-2: St. Petersburg … Continue reading
Grand Asian Caravan
Amazing and diverse sightseeing experiences in some the world’s remotest corners bring rich rewards on this unique, challenging journey. Come with us along the Silk Road, to the beautiful Caucasus and retrace ancient routes of trade and conquest. Contact us … Continue reading
Five Golden Stans
This incredible journey will take you through the five “Stans” of Central Asia, across mountains and steppes, treading in the footsteps of those who travelled the ancient Silk Road with their caravans winding trails through the deserts, exchanging their wares … Continue reading
Jewels of Uzbekistan
Discover the Silk Road country of Uzbekistan, from modern buzzing Tashkent to the fabled city of Khiva. Journey back to the days of the Great Silk Road with the medieval cities, stunning architecture and turbulent history of Uzbekistan. Begin in … Continue reading
Best of Georgia & Armenia
Georgia and Armenia may sound like unconventional destinations, but trust us, they ought to top your list of places to visit. This eight-day trip is a wonderful showcase of the cultural and natural highlights the Caucasus Region has to offer, … Continue reading
Iran – Discover Persia
Follow in pilgrims’ footsteps and explore the history of old Persia and the spirit of the new Iran. Discover magnificent mosques, small mountain villages and colourful gardens, and gain deeper insight into this ancient land. Wander the streets of ancient … Continue reading
Pearl of Persia
Iran’s fabulous history reaches back to the dawn of time. – Discover places of legend like Persepolis & Isfahan, and gaze in awe at the glories of the country’s Islamic & Persian heritage. ITINERARY Day 1 Tehran Arrival transfer to … Continue reading
Persia and the Silk Road
Includes economy class airfares ex Auckland or Christchurch Departs 12 September 2020 For thousands of years the Silk Road was the only link between eastern and western Asia. Its rich history of merchants, pilgrims, monks, soldiers and nomads who travelled … Continue reading