Multi-Stan Adventure - Bishkek to Tashkent - 23 Days

Frequently asked questions

• What are the main highlights of this trip?

  The main highlights include learning about the diverse cultures of Central Asia, soaking in the scenic beauty of mountains and deserts, connecting with locals during community village and yurt stays, and marveling at colorful mosaic buildings.

• Which countries are visited on this tour?

  This tour visits Kyrgyzstan, Kazakhstan, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan.

• What is the travel style for this tour?

  The travel style for this tour is 'Classic'.

• What type of accommodation is provided on this tour?

  Accommodation includes standard hotels/guest-houses (19 nights), yurts (2 nights, multishare up to 4 people per yurt), and a homestay (1 night, twinshare).

• Are there any specific exceptions to the standard rooming arrangements?

  Yes, exceptions apply for Nights 3 and 17 (Yurt camp) and Nights 10-11 (Lake homestay). If you book the 'My Own Room' option, these nights are excluded.

• What meals are included in this trip?

  The trip includes 22 breakfasts, 4 lunches, and 8 dinners.

• What is the typical group size for this tour?

  The maximum group size is 16 travellers, with an average of 14.

• Is there an extra cost for single travellers?

  We believe single travellers should not have to pay more to travel, so our group trips are designed for shared accommodation and do not involve a single supplement. Single travellers are paired in twin or multi-share accommodation with someone of the same sex for the duration of the trip, with exceptions for yurt and homestay nights.

• What is the physical rating of this tour?

  The tour has a physical rating of 3. An average level of fitness and mobility is required, including being able to walk without aid, climb 3-4 flights of stairs, step on and off small boats, and carry your own luggage (under 10kg/22lb).

• Are there any altitude considerations for this trip?

  Yes, this trip operates at altitudes over 800m, with a maximum altitude of 3,016m at Song Kul. While we travel slowly to allow for acclimatization, you may experience headaches, nausea, or lethargy, especially when visiting Song Kul & Iskanderkul.

• What modes of transportation are used on this trip?

  The tour utilizes private vehicles, planes, trains, and walking.

• What is the minimum age to join this trip?

  You must be 18 to travel unaccompanied on a tour. For minors travelling with a guardian over 21 years old, the minimum age is 12.

• How should I dress to respect local customs during the tour?

  Central Asian dress is quite conservative. It's recommended to pack loose-fitting light clothing appropriate for hot weather, covering knees, shoulders, and chest. Women should also bring a hair scarf for temple visits, which can be easily purchased locally.

• What should I know about the local culture?

  Central Asia is a region that may be very different from what you have experienced before, with a mixture of Soviet heritage and Islam. Religious conservatism, traffic, and crowds can result in initial culture shock but should be seen as an exciting new challenge.

• What if my trip falls during Ramadan?

  According to the lunar cycle, Ramadan will fall between Feb 28th - Mar 29th 2025, and Feb 17th - Mar 19th 2026. There may be some limitations to services and disruptions to schedules during Ramadan, but generally our tours still operate effectively during this period and food is available to non-Muslims throughout the day. It is very important to display increased cultural sensitivity during Ramadan. Please wear loose fitting clothes, that cover knees and shoulders, and try to avoid eating, drinking or smoking in public out of respect for those who can't at that time.

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

  Every traveller is different and therefore spending money requirements will vary. Please consider your own spending habits when it comes to allowing for drinks, shopping and tipping. An additional USD $200 (or equivalent) is recommended as an emergency fund for unforeseen circumstances.

• What should I know about currency, credit cards, and exchanging money?

  In general Central Asia is a cash operating region, and travellers cheques are not recommended. Due to bank restrictions, only banknotes printed after 1996 and in good condition will be accepted for exchange. We recommend bringing about 70 USD in small denominations: 1, 5 and 10 USD notes. ATMs are available in larger cities for local currency withdrawals, but foreign debit/credit card acceptance is limited in local establishments in Uzbekistan. In Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, and Tajikistan, local establishments rarely accept credit cards, so keep cash on hand, and ATMs are accessible in larger cities, but less dependable in remote areas.

• Should I be tipping on my trip?

  In Central Asia, it is not customary to tip service providers such as waiters, but it is very appreciated (3-5%). For local guides or drivers, recommendations range from $3-$4 USD per person per day. For your CEO, a guideline of $4-7 USD per person per day is appreciated.

• Are local flights included in the cost of the trip?

  Yes, any flights noted on the itinerary for this tour are included in the tour services provided. Please be aware that flight delays between Bishkek and Dushanbe can occur, and your CEO may need to make itinerary adjustments.

• Are international flights included in this trip?

  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 as part of the itinerary and price of the tour. Check-in times and baggage allowances/restrictions vary by airline and can change at any time.

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

  Visas are the responsibility of the individual traveller, and requirements vary depending on your nationality and destination. Passports must be valid for at least 6 months from the moment of departure from the country. Letters of Invitation (LOI) may be required for Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan (with a $50USD processing fee), and Uzbekistan. British nationals and other eligible nationalities for Tajikistan must apply for an e-Visa. You must have at least two blank passport pages available for each country you visit.

• Are there any health considerations I should know before travelling?

  Inoculations may be required; consult your travel doctor well before departure. We recommend carrying a First Aid kit and hand sanitizers/antibacterial wipes. Our leaders are prohibited from administering any type of drug. In Asia, pharmacies often stock Western drugs, but bring full drug names. A short medical questionnaire, signed by your physician, is required for travellers with pre-existing medical conditions.

• Is travel insurance compulsory for this trip?

  Yes, travel insurance is compulsory in order to participate. You will not be permitted to join the group until evidence of travel insurance has been sighted by your CEO, with a minimum coverage of USD 200,000 for repatriation and emergency rescue. Personal liability, cancellation, curtailment, and loss of luggage are strongly recommended.

• Who will be leading the group?

  All group trips are accompanied by one of our Chief Experience Officers (CEO) who provides information, suggestions, and introduces local contacts. Local guides are also used for specific knowledge when needed.

• 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 you bring non-polluting/biodegradable soap.

• What do I need to know about safety and security on my trip?

  We recommend checking your government's travel advice. Use a neck wallet or money belt for valuables and leave expensive jewellery at home. Many hotels have safety deposit boxes, and a lock is recommended for securing luggage. Your CEO has the authority to amend or cancel parts of the itinerary for safety. Use good judgment for optional activities and travel in small groups or take taxis at night in cities. Avoid protests. Water-based activities are at your own risk unless accompanied by a guide arranged by the operator.

• What are the trip specific safety considerations?

  We strongly recommend the use of a neck wallet or money belt while travelling, for the safe keeping of your passport, air tickets, travellers' cheques, cash and other valuable items. Leave your valuable jewellery at home. Many of the hotels we use have safety deposit boxes which is the most secure way of storing your valuables. A lock is recommended for securing your luggage.

• What rules should I know before joining this trip?

  Illegal drugs will not be tolerated. Possessing or using drugs contravenes laws and puts the group at risk. Smoking marijuana and opium is not acceptable for our travellers. Exploitation of prostitutes is contrary to our philosophy. Our CEOs have the right to expel any member for drug possession or using prostitutes.

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

  The safety and well-being of all our travelers, including those who identify as part of the LGBTQ+ community, is a priority. We encourage you to visit the tour operator's LGBTQ+ page for useful resources to ensure you feel safe and comfortable throughout the duration of your trip. The Equaldex tool linked on this page can be of particular help when deciding where you may want to visit next.

• What optional activities are available on this trip?

  Optional activities include: Hiking in Song Kül (Free), Hiking in Kolsay Lakes National Park (Free), Zelyony Bazaar in Almaty, Lunch and Silk Paper Making Workshop at Konigil Village and Tomb of the Old Testament Prophet Daniel Visit (3USD per person) in Samarkand, Kazakh Singing at Aydar Kŭl Camp (Free), and in Bukhara: Bukhara Hammam Visit (35USD per person), Carpet Museum (1USD per person), Chor-Bakr Complex, and Jewish Area and Synagogue Visit (Free).