Discover the Wonders of Central Asia

Discover the Wonders of Central Asia: A 19-Day Journey Through the Five Stans

In this post, you’ll discover the wonders of Central Asia, more particularly, the five countries ending in -stan. Begin your own adventure with this Silk Road tour, an unforgettable journey through these fascinating regions.. After the nineteen-day tour, you will be asking yourself  why these countries aren’t among the top destinations in the world.

The five countries in Central Asia ending in -stan include Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, and Turkmenistan․ The weather was favorable, so we explored a few countries during a single tour and discovered untold stories that amazed and stunned us at the same time.

This educational journey transported us back to ancient times, allowing us to envision the vibrant life that once thrived along the legendary Silk Road. We were captivated by the towering, snow-capped peaks, ancient UNESCO-protected landmarks, sprawling deserts, and lush, green landscapes. Adding to the experience were the delectable cuisine and the warm hospitality of the friendly locals who made us feel truly welcome.

The cities of the five ‘Stans’ glimmer under the bright sun like pearls strung along the legendary Silk Road. Steeped in history and rich with artefacts, these lands have flourished over centuries. New cities rose, ancient ones expanded, and trade and craftsmanship thrived—all made possible by their strategic location within lush oases at the heart of the Silk Road’s bustling routes.

Each of the countries was interesting to explore as they although they had similarities, each one was unique in its own way. For me, this was a life-changing journey with diverse, interesting, and distinctive experiences.

Let’s start from the beginning. First, we landed in Kazakhstan, (by the way, it’s the world’s ninth-largest country) which immediately stole my heart. We visited touristy places and tried delicious, national, mouth-watering spicy Kazakh bites, which are popular all over the world.

We visited Almaty, a captivating and vibrant Kazakh city. As the business hub of the country, it offers a unique blend of urbanized areas and serene natural landscapes. Even in the summer months, snow can be spotted on the peaks of the surrounding mountains. After exploring its highlights—such as the beautiful Panfilov Park, the Zenkov Cathedral, and the bustling Green Bazaar—we headed towards the border, en route to Bishkek, the heart of Kyrgyzstan.

The journey to the stunning Issyk-Kul Lake was truly special. As the second-largest mountain lake in the world, its name translates to “warm lake,” since its pristine waters never freeze. Surrounded by snow-capped mountain ranges, the lake reflects the majestic peaks in its crystal-clear waters.

In Kyrgyzstan, we also visited the historic Burana Tower, a large and ancient minaret. Here, we experienced local hospitality by sharing lunch with a welcoming Kyrgyz family—a memorable highlight of our visit.

Next, Tajikistan awaited us! This landlocked country, home to the smallest population in Central Asia, boasts incredible potential for hydroelectric power. We embarked on a fascinating tour of its mountainous landscapes, where snowy peaks tower over narrow gorges that conceal small lakes with strikingly vibrant waters.

Near Panjakent, we discovered the breathtaking Seven Lakes, a series of interconnected mountain lakes. These lakes amazed us with their constantly changing, vivid colours. Each has its own name and unique stories, and is situated at a different altitude.

Panjakent, meaning “five settlements,” proved to be an excellent stop for travellers. We explored its colourful bazaar and several historic sites. On its southern outskirts, we visited Ancient Panjakent, the best-preserved Sogdian town. The Sogdians were a significant force in the Silk Road trade for centuries, and this site offered a glimpse into their remarkable history.

Minor Masjidi mosque in Tashkent

Our journey continued into Uzbekistan, where we explored Samarkand, Bukhara, and Khiva—cities renowned for their magnificent architecture, vibrant bazaars, and rich histories. Once centres of learning and commerce, these cities left us awestruck. In Khiva, we toured the UNESCO-listed Ichan-Kala, a perfectly preserved inner city.

Turkmenistan amazed us with its gleaming marble-white buildings and the Darvaza Gas Crater—a true highlight of the journey. This fiery crater in the middle of the desert defies description; the sensations it evokes are beyond words.

This extraordinary adventure took us through the highlights of the ‘Stans,’ a region celebrated for its nomadic culture and Silk Road heritage. Along the way, we gained deep insights into the cultures, people, and landscapes that define this captivating crossroads between Europe and Asia. We crossed borders—often by car or train—explored mountains and lakes, spent a night under canvas in a traditional yurt, and experienced the vibrant melting pot of regional ethnic groups, colourful bazaars, and architectural marvels

I discovered the marvels of these countries with Arara Tour Agency. All the tours were well planned, the accommodations carefully chosen, and the guiding service did its best to ensure an unforgettable experience. Arara Tour also organizes luxury tours in Armenia, Georgia, and beyond.

Sara Essop is a travel blogger and writer based in South Africa. She writes about family travel and experiences around the world. Although she has been to 50 countries thus far, she especially loves showcasing her beautiful country and is a certified South Africa Specialist.