Central Asia: Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, Kazakhstan & Kyrgyzstan - 15 Days

Frequently asked questions

• What is the age range for this tour?

  This tour is designed for travelers aged 18 to 39.

• What kind of accommodation is provided on the tour?

  Accommodation varies and includes hostels (twin and multi-share), guesthouses (multi-share), and hotels (twin share). There is also one overnight train journey.

• Are meals included in the tour price?

  The tour includes 11 breakfasts, 2 lunches, and 2 dinners. For other meals, you'll have flexibility to choose where and what to eat.

• What is the physical rating for this tour?

  This tour has a physical rating of 3, indicating a moderate level of activity. It includes hikes such as a 16km trek to Sayram Su Lake and a hike from Lake 6 to Lake 7 in the Fan Mountains.

• What kind of transportation will be used during the tour?

  Transportation between destinations and for included activities will involve a mix of metro, private vehicles, trains, walking, and an overnight train.

• Is international airfare included in the tour price?

  No, international flights are not included in the tour price.

• What are the visa requirements for this tour?

  Visa requirements are not included in the tour package. It is your responsibility to consult with your travel doctor for up-to-date medical travel information well before departure. Please note that as the trip returns to Uzbekistan on day 10, a double entry visa for Uzbekistan may be required.

• What is the tipping policy for local guides and drivers, and the CEO?

  Tipping is appreciated in Central Asia. For local guides and drivers, a recommendation is $3-$4 USD per person per day. For your Chief Experience Officer (CEO), a guideline of $4-$7 USD per person per day is suggested if you feel they did an outstanding job.

• How should I manage money during the trip?

  Central Asia is primarily a cash-operating region. It's recommended to bring USD or EUR banknotes printed after 1996 and in good condition for exchange. ATMs are available in larger cities for local currency withdrawals, but credit cards are rarely accepted by local establishments. An emergency fund of at least USD $200 is also recommended.

• What is the policy for solo travelers regarding accommodation?

  Solo travelers on group trips are paired in twin or multi-share accommodation with someone of the same sex, and no single supplement is charged for shared accommodation.

• What is the recommended dress code for the region?

  Central Asian dress is conservative. It's recommended to pack loose-fitting, light clothing that covers knees, shoulders, and chest. Women should carry a headscarf for visits to religious sites like mosques. Tank tops/singlets and clothes with bare shoulders are generally not acceptable.

• Are there any altitude considerations for this trip?

  Yes, this trip operates at altitudes over 800m, reaching a maximum of 3016m in the Fan Mountains. While the travel pace allows for acclimatization, you may experience headaches, nausea, or lethargy, especially when visiting the higher altitude locations.

• What if my trip falls during Ramadan?

  If your trip coincides with Ramadan, there may be some limitations to services and disruptions to schedules. It's very important to display increased cultural sensitivity during this time by wearing loose-fitting clothes that cover knees and shoulders, and by avoiding eating, drinking, or smoking in public out of respect for those who are fasting.

• Is travel insurance included or required?

  Travel insurance is not included. It is your responsibility to consult with your travel doctor for up-to-date medical travel information well before departure, which typically includes advice on travel insurance.

• What type of accommodation will be used on this trip?

  Accommodation on this trip includes Hostels (8 nights, twin share), Hostel (2 nights, multi-share), Overnight train (1 night), Guesthouse (2 nights, multi-share), and Hotel (1 night, twin share). Please note that properties with only two stories may not have elevators.

• Are international flights included in the trip price?

  No, international flights are generally not included in the price of your tour. However, on some combo tours traveling between two different countries, international flights are included. Please speak to your GCO or booking agent for further details.

• What are the health considerations for this trip?

  Inoculations may be required for the countries visited; it is your responsibility to consult with your travel doctor for up-to-date medical travel information. We recommend carrying a First Aid kit and hand sanitizers. Be aware that sometimes we are in remote areas away from medical facilities, and leaders cannot administer drugs. Please assess your ability to cope with the style of travel based on the Physical and Culture Shock ratings.

• Is there an extra cost for solo travelers?

  No, our group trips are designed for shared accommodation and do not involve a single supplement. Single travelers joining group trips are paired in twin or multi-share accommodation with someone of the same sex for the duration of the trip, except for nights 2, 8, & 9.

• What is the maximum group size for this tour?

  The maximum group size for this tour is 18 travelers.

• What is the minimum age to join this trip?

  The minimum age to join this trip is 18 years.

• How should I dress to respect local customs in Central Asia?

  Central Asian dress is quite conservative. Plan to pack loose-fitting, light clothing appropriate for hot weather, and ensure it covers your knees, shoulders, and chest. For women, a hair scarf is recommended for visits to religious sights, though they are easy to buy locally. Avoid tank tops and clothes with bare shoulders or backs in most areas.

• What are the altitude considerations for this trip?

  This trip operates at altitudes over 800m, with a maximum altitude of 3016m at Song Kul. While we travel slowly to allow for acclimatization, you may experience headaches, nausea, or lethargy, especially when visiting Song Kul and Iskanderkul.

• What should I know about currency, credit cards, and exchanging money while on this tour?

  Central Asia is generally a cash-operating region. Only banknotes printed after 1996 and in good condition will be accepted for exchange, with $50 and $100 USD/EUR notes often getting better exchange rates. It's recommended to bring some smaller USD denominations. ATMs are available in larger cities for local currency withdrawals, but foreign debit/credit cards may not be widely accepted by local establishments, especially in remote areas.

• What is the tipping etiquette in Central Asia?

  In Central Asia, tipping service providers like waiters is appreciated (3-5% recommended). For local guides and drivers, a range of $3-$4 USD per person per day is suggested. Tipping your CEO is also appreciated, with a guideline of $4-7 USD per person per day.

• Is travel insurance required for my trip?

  Yes, travel insurance is compulsory. You will need medical coverage with a minimum of USD 200,000 for repatriation and emergency rescue. Your CEO will require evidence of your travel insurance.

• Who will be leading the group on this tour?

  All group trips are accompanied by a Chief Experience Officer (CEO). The CEO provides information on the places you are traveling through, offers suggestions, recommends local eating venues, and introduces you to local contacts. Local guides are also used for more specific knowledge.

• What types of transportation are used during the tour?

  The tour utilizes various modes of transport including Metro, private vehicles, regular trains, walking, and an overnight train.

• What are the main highlights of this trip?

  Highlights include hiking to the electric blue waters of Sayram Su Lake, exploring ancient cities like Bukhara, Tashkent, and Shymkent, traveling off the beaten path to the small but mighty Taraz village, and soaking up Silk Road vibes in centuries-old caravan towns.

• What is included in the tour price?

  The tour includes your First Night Out Moment to connect with new friends, a Welcome Moment to meet your CEO and group, a Big Night Out in Tashkent, Tashkent Orientation Walk, free time in Tashkent, Khiva Orientation Walk, free time in Khiva, Bukhara Orientation Walk, free time in Bukhara, free time in Samarkand, Panjakent Bazaar visit, Marguzor Lakes Visit, Marguzor Lakes 6 & 7 Hike, free time in Shymkent, Shymkent Orientation Walk, Sayram Su Lake Hike, Taraz Orientation Walk, free time in Taraz, all transport between destinations and to/from included activities, 11 breakfasts, 2 lunches, and 2 dinners.

• What rules of conduct are important to know for this trip?

  Illegal drugs will not be tolerated, and possessing or using them will result in expulsion from the trip without refund. The exploitation of prostitutes is also strictly against the tour operator's philosophy and will result in expulsion.

• What should LGBTQ+ travelers know about safety and travel considerations on this trip?

  The safety and well-being of all travelers, including the LGBTQ+ community, is a priority. We encourage you to visit the tour operator's LGBTQ+ page for useful resources and tools like Equaldex to ensure you feel safe and comfortable throughout your adventure.

• What are the visa and entry requirements for my trip?

  Visas are the responsibility of the individual traveler. Passport validity of at least 6 months from the moment of departure from the country is required. Specific Letters of Invitation (LOI) may be needed for Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan (with a $50 USD processing fee), and Uzbekistan. For Tajikistan, an e-Visa is required, and an LOI may also be needed. You must have at least two blank passport pages for entry and exit stamps for each country visited.

• When can I do my laundry on this trip?

  Laundry facilities are offered by some of our hotels for a charge. There will be times when you may want to or have to do your own laundry, so we suggest bringing non-polluting/biodegradable soap.

• How much spending money do I need for my trip?

  Spending money requirements vary by traveler. Consider your own habits for drinks, shopping, and tipping. Additionally, please make sure you have access to at least an additional USD $200 (or equivalent) as an 'emergency' fund for unforeseen circumstances.

• What optional activities are available on this trip?

  Optional activities include the Tashkent Guided City Tour, Institute of Sun Visit (Tashkent), Khiva Ancient City Exploration, Islam Khoja Minaret (Khiva), Bukhara Hammam Visit (approx. $35 USD), Bukhara City Guided Tour, Uzbek Cooking Class (Bukhara), Tomb of the Old Testament Prophet Daniel Visit (approx. $3 USD), Konigil Village and Silk Paper Making Workshop, Samarkand City Tour (Samarkand), and the Ancient Taraz Archaeological Park and Museum (Taraz).

• What safety and security measures should I be aware of?

  We strongly recommend using a neck wallet or money belt for valuables and leaving expensive jewelry at home. Many hotels offer safety deposit boxes. A lock is recommended for securing luggage. While cities are generally safe during the day, it's recommended to travel in small groups and use taxis at night. Be aware of protests and demonstrations, and leave the area immediately if one gathers. Water-based activities carry inherent risks; only participate when accompanied by a guide.