The Stans of Central Asia

The Stans of Central Asia - for thousands of years, these lands were sought after and conquered by some of the world's greatest leaders from Alexander, Attila, Genghis Khan, Tamerlane, Babur, Cyrus, and Darius of ancient Persia. Today it is the world's greatest adventure seekers who are drawn to these exotic lands of Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan, Tajikistan and Turkmenistan. Lands filled with harsh deserts, towering snow-capped peaks, ancient cities and fortresses with exotic cultures.

In Kyrgyzstan explore Lake Issyk-Kul and hike in stunning mountains. Explore Bishkek, the capital city and visit the ancient stone gods, which still remain a mystery. In Osh, visit one of the biggest bazaars in Central Asia and Sulaiman-Too Sacred Mountain (UNESCO).

Enjoy the stunning scenery of Tajikistan. In Khujand, we visit the Citadel, Mausoleum, Madrassah, mosque and bazaar. Explore Istarafshan, one of the oldest cities in Tajikistan, with 2,500 years of history.

Visit the historic cities of Tashkent, Samarkand, Bukhara and Khiva in Uzbekistan, evoking images of caravans traveling across deserts and over mountains linking the worlds of East and West. These open-air museums are beautifully preserved Silk Road wonders filled with mosques, tombs, monuments and bazaars.

Crossing the border into Turkmenistan we will camp in the Karakum Desert overlooking a giant gas crater, one of the most unusual sights in the world. Explore Bronze Age Margush (2,500 - 1,500 B.C.) and Merv, a collection of 5 ancient cities that moved over the centuries as the river changed its course. Our journey leads us to Ashgabat, the splendid capital of Turkmenistan, built predominantly of white marble.