Journeys: Through the Heart of the Stans - 13 Days

Frequently asked questions

• What countries will I visit on this tour?

  This tour, 'Journeys: Through the Heart of the Stans', will take you through Kyrgyzstan, Kazakhstan, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan.

• What is the travel style of this tour?

  This is a National Geographic Journeys tour, focusing on immersive encounters and expert insights to reveal the true spirit of the Silk Road.

• What kind of accommodation is provided during the tour?

  Accommodation consists of hotels for all 12 nights of the tour.

• How many meals are included in the tour price?

  The tour includes 12 breakfasts, 8 lunches, and 7 dinners.

• What is the typical group size for this tour?

  The tour operates with a minimum of 1 and a maximum of 16 participants.

• Is there an age restriction for participants on this tour?

  Participants must be at least 12 years old, with a maximum age of 100.

• What is the physical rating of this tour?

  The tour has a physical rating of 3, indicating a moderate level of activity.

• Are international flights included in the tour price?

  No, international flights are not included. However, all internal flights within the tour are covered.

• What type of transportation is used during the tour?

  Transportation includes private vehicles, planes (for internal flights), metro, and walking tours.

• What kind of cultural experiences and interactions can I expect?

  You can expect numerous immersive experiences, such as sharing home-cooked meals with Kyrgyz, Dungan, and Cossack families, participating in a yurt building demonstration, a Tajik bread-making experience, and guided tours of cultural hubs and historical sites with local experts.

• What are the guidelines for tipping on this tour?

  Tipping is appreciated in Central Asia. It is recommended to tip local guides and drivers $3-$4 USD per person per day, and the Chief Experience Officer (CEO) $4-$7 USD per person per day. Amounts are a personal preference but these are guidelines for satisfaction.

• How are solo travelers accommodated on this tour?

  Solo travelers are typically paired in twin or multi-share accommodation with someone of the same sex, without incurring a single supplement. A 'My Own Room' option is available for those who prefer a private room.

• What should I know about currency and money exchange in Central Asia?

  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 can be limited in rural areas, especially in Tajikistan. Carrying about $70 USD in small denominations is also advised.

• What is the recommended dress code for visiting religious sites and generally in Central Asia?

  Central Asian dress is conservative. It's recommended to pack loose-fitting clothing that covers knees, shoulders, and chest. Women should carry a headscarf for visits to mosques and other religious sites.

• Are there any altitude considerations for this trip?

  Yes, parts of the trip operate at altitudes over 800m, with a maximum altitude of 3016m at Song Kul. While the pace allows for acclimatization, some travelers may experience headaches, nausea, or lethargy, especially on long driving days or when visiting high-altitude areas like Song Kul and Iskanderkul.

• What happens if the tour falls during Ramadan?

  The tour will still operate effectively. However, during Ramadan, Muslims observe fasting from sunrise to sunset. Non-Muslims can still access food, but it is important to show increased cultural sensitivity 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.

• Are there any specific medical advisories for this tour, particularly regarding medication?

  You should consult your travel doctor for up-to-date medical information and required inoculations well before departure. It's advisable to carry a first aid kit. Please note that tour leaders are prohibited from administering any drugs. While this tour does not visit Turkmenistan, some Central Asian countries have strict advisories on prohibited medications, so check with our Sales team if you require further details.

• Is an arrival transfer included upon arrival?

  Yes, an arrival transfer is included on Day 1, or if you arrive up to three days prior, provided you have booked your pre-accommodation through National Geographic Journeys in the designated joining hotel.

• Will I have a dedicated guide throughout the tour?

  All group trips are accompanied by a Chief Experience Officer (CEO) who provides general knowledge and assists with logistics. Local guides are also used at specific sites where more specialized knowledge enhances the experience.

• What if I miss the welcome meeting on Day 1?

  If you arrive later and miss the welcome meeting (usually between 5pm and 7pm on Day 1), your CEO will leave a note at reception for you with any necessary information and instructions for the following day.

• What are the main highlights of this Central Asia tour?

  This tour offers immersive experiences such as sharing home-cooked meals and heartfelt stories with welcoming Kyrgyz and Cossack families, marveling at the surreal beauty of Kaindy Lake with its submerged forest, and discovering how the Silk Road still shapes daily life through guided tours in the cultural hubs of Almaty and Dushanbe.

• What countries will I visit on this tour?

  This journey will take you through Kyrgyzstan, Kazakhstan, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan.

• What type of accommodation is provided during the tour?

  You will stay in hotels for all 12 nights of the tour. Please note that properties with only two stories may not have elevators installed.

• What is the maximum group size for this tour?

  The maximum group size for this tour is 16 travelers.

• Who will be leading the tour group?

  The tour will be led by a National Geographic Expedition Leader, accompanied by local guides in various locations for specific expertise.

• Are internal flights within the region included in the tour price?

  Yes, any internal flights noted on the itinerary for this tour are included in the tour services provided. Flight tickets are given by the tour operator during the tour.

• Are international flights to and from the region included?

  No, international flights are generally not included in the price of your tour. You should contact your airline for baggage and check-in information.

• What meals are included during the trip?

  The tour includes 12 breakfasts, 8 lunches, and 7 dinners.

• What is the physical rating of this tour?

  This tour has a physical rating of 3. It involves walking tours, potential hikes, and operates at altitudes over 800m, reaching a maximum of 3016m at Song Kul. While the pace allows for acclimatization, travelers should assess their ability to cope with this style of travel.

• What health considerations should I be aware of before traveling?

  Inoculations may be required for the countries visited, so consult your travel doctor well before departure. It's recommended to carry a First Aid kit and personal medical requirements, as you may be in remote areas. Turkmenistan has strict advisories on prohibited medications.

• What are the local dress customs I should respect during the tour?

  Central Asian dress is quite conservative. It is recommended to pack loose-fitting light clothing that covers knees, shoulders, and chest. For women, a hair scarf is recommended for visits to religious sites.

• What is the policy for solo travelers?

  Single travelers joining group trips are paired in twin or multi-share accommodation with someone of the same sex, and there is no single supplement. A 'My Own Room' option is available for an additional cost if you prefer a private room for all night stops.

• Is travel insurance mandatory for this trip?

  Yes, travel insurance is compulsory. You must have medical coverage with a minimum of USD 200,000 for repatriation and emergency rescue. Your Expedition Leader will require proof of insurance.

• What currency should I use, and what should I know about money exchange?

  Central Asia is largely a cash-operating region, and traveler's cheques are not recommended. Bring about USD $70 in small denominations (1, 5, 10 USD) with banknotes printed after 1996 and in good condition. ATMs are available in larger cities for local currency, and money exchange locations accept major foreign currencies. Credit card acceptance is rare in local establishments.

• What are the tipping customs in Central Asia?

  Tipping service providers like waiters is appreciated (recommended 3-5%). For local guides and drivers, a guideline of $3-$4 USD per person per day is suggested. Tipping your National Geographic Expedition Leader is also appreciated, with a guideline of $4-$7 USD per person per day.

• Are there any optional activities available during the tour?

  Yes, optional activities include venturing into Ala Archa National Park for a scenic hike to the Broken Heart Stone, exploring the Zelyony Bazaar, and visiting the Central State Museum of the Republic of Kazakhstan in Almaty.

• What modes of transportation will be used on the tour?

  Transportation will include private vehicles, planes for internal flights, metro, and walking tours.

• What should I know about safety and security on the trip?

  It is strongly recommended to use a neck wallet or money belt for valuables and leave valuable jewelry at home. Many hotels provide safety deposit boxes. Exercise good judgment during free time, stay in small groups when out at night, and consider taking taxis. Avoid protests and be aware of risks associated with water-based activities.

• What is Planeterra and how does this tour support local communities?

  Planeterra International Foundation is a non-profit organization that helps local communities earn income from tourism by developing and supporting community-owned businesses. The tour operator is Planeterra's largest corporate donor, ensuring 100% of your donation directly supports projects that empower women, grant youth access to employment, and protect the environment. You can also join their 'Dollar-a-day Program' to contribute.

• Will I encounter any specific cultural considerations or events like Ramadan?

  Central Asia offers a unique cultural mix which can lead to initial culture shock. During Ramadan (dates vary annually, e.g., Feb 28th - Mar 29th 2025), Muslims fast from sunrise to sunset. While tours operate normally and food is available to non-Muslims, it's important to display increased cultural sensitivity by wearing modest clothing and avoiding eating, drinking, or smoking in public.

• Are there any altitude considerations on this trip?

  Yes, this trip operates at altitudes over 800m, with a maximum altitude of 3016m at Song Kul. The itinerary allows for slow acclimatization, but you may experience headaches, nausea, or lethargy, especially when visiting Song Kul and Iskanderkul or during long driving days.

• What are the visa and entry requirements for the countries visited?

  Visas are the responsibility of the individual traveler, and passports must be valid for at least 6 months from the date of departure from the country. Letters of Invitation (LOI) may be required for visas to Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan (subject to a $50 USD processing fee), and Uzbekistan. For Tajikistan, an e-Visa is required, and an LOI may also be necessary.

• Are laundry facilities available during the trip?

  Laundry facilities are offered by some of the hotels for a charge. If you plan to do your own laundry, it is suggested to bring non-polluting/biodegradable soap.