Signature: The Northern Stans & the Silk Road - 9 Days

Frequently asked questions

• What is the overall theme of the "Signature: The Northern Stans & the Silk Road" tour?

  This expedition traverses the ancient Silk Road across Central Asia, exploring the mountains of Kyrgyzstan to bustling Uzbekistan, including Scythian archaeology, snow leopard conservation, and cultural immersion with Tajik families, all guided by experts.

• What is the minimum and maximum age for participants on this tour?

  The minimum age for this tour is 12 years, and the maximum age is 100 years.

• What is the typical group size for this tour?

  The maximum group size is 22 travelers, with an average group size of 18.

• What type of accommodation is provided during the tour?

  Accommodation for the tour consists of hotels for 8 nights.

• What is the physical rating of this tour?

  The physical rating for this tour is 2, indicating it's not overly strenuous.

• What travel style does this tour embody?

  This tour is a National Geographic Signature travel style.

• What are the main highlights of this trip?

  Key highlights include gaining insight into local conservation with a National Geographic Explorer, enjoying pre-opening access and a curator talk on the Scythian 'Golden Man' treasure, witnessing traditional games and activities followed by a home-hosted Kyrgyz lunch, exploring Tajikistan's National Museum with an archaeologist, and a panoramic farewell dinner atop the Tashkent TV Tower.

• What meals are included in this trip?

  The trip includes 8 breakfasts, 4 lunches, and 5 dinners.

• What modes of transportation are used during the trip?

  Transportation on this trip includes private vehicles, metro, planes, and walking.

• Who will be leading the group on this expedition?

  The group will be led by a National Geographic Expedition Leader and a National Geographic Expedition Expert.

• Is travel insurance required for my trip?

  Yes, travel insurance is compulsory. It must include medical coverage with a minimum of USD 200,000 for repatriation and emergency rescue. Coverage for personal liability, cancellation, curtailment, and lost luggage is also strongly recommended.

• Is there an extra cost for travelling solo?

  Yes, for those traveling solo, there is a single supplement.

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

  The tour operator prioritizes the safety and well-being of all travelers, including those who identify as part of the LGBTQ+ community. They encourage visiting their LGBTQ+ page for useful resources and to utilize the Equaldex tool for travel safety information.

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

  Central Asia is generally a cash-operating region, and traveler's cheques are not recommended. Only banknotes printed after 1996 and without marks or stamps can be exchanged. It's recommended to bring about 70 USD in small denominations. While USD or EUR may be accepted in some places, it's best to use local currency (Uzbek Sums in Uzbekistan, Tenge in Kazakhstan, Som in Kyrgyzstan, Somoni in Tajikistan). ATMs are available in larger cities for local currency withdrawals, and currency exchange locations are common.

• What rules should I know before joining this trip?

  Illegal drugs will not be tolerated. Possessing or using drugs contravenes local laws and puts the group at risk. The exploitation of prostitutes is also contrary to the travel philosophy. Expedition Leaders have the right to expel any group member if these rules are violated.

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

  It is recommended to check your government's travel advice before departure. A neck wallet or money belt is advised for valuables like passports, tickets, and cash. Leave valuable jewelry at home. Many hotels have safety deposit boxes. A lock is recommended for luggage. The Expedition Leader can amend the itinerary for safety concerns and will accompany all included activities. During free time, use good judgment for optional activities and consider staying in small groups or taking taxis at night in major cities. Water-based activities should only be done with a guide.

• What are the trip-specific safety considerations?

  It is strongly recommended to use a neck wallet or money belt for valuables. Leave valuable jewelry at home. Many hotels provide safety deposit boxes for storing valuables, and a lock is recommended for luggage.

• What activities are optional on this trip?

  There are no optional activities specified for this trip; all listed activities are included.

• Should I be tipping on my trip?

  Tipping for all included activities, meals, and porterage is included. Tipping for the Expedition Leader is not included but appreciated, with a guideline of $10-$15 per person per day. For meals and activities not included, a 3-5% tip is appropriate in Central Asia, though not always expected. Tipping for the Expedition Expert is not required.

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

  Central Asian dress is conservative. Travelers should plan to pack loose-fitting, light clothing suitable for hot weather, and ensure knees, shoulders, and chest are covered. Women are recommended to bring a hair scarf, which can also be easily purchased locally.

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

  Every traveler is different and therefore spending money requirements will vary. Some travelers may drink more than others while other travelers like to purchase more souvenirs than most. Please consider your own spending habits when it comes to allowing for drinks, shopping and tipping. Please also remember the following specific recommendations when planning your trip.

• How much emergency money should I bring on this trip?

  Please also make sure you have access to at least an additional USD $200 (or equivalent) as an 'emergency' fund, to be used when circumstances outside our control (ex. a natural disaster) require a change to our planned route. This is a rare occurrence!

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

  Inoculations may be required, and it's essential to consult a travel doctor for up-to-date medical travel information well before departure. Carrying a First Aid kit, hand sanitizers, and personal medical requirements is recommended. Travelers should assess their ability to cope with the travel style, and leaders cannot administer drugs. Please note, Turkmenistan have strict advisories on prohibited medications which can be taken into the country. If you require further details, please reach out to our Sales team who will be able to advise further.

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

  Yes, any flights noted on the tour operator Itinerary for this tour are included in the tour services provided. Flight tickets are provided by the tour operator during the tour. Please be aware that flight delays can occur and itinerary adjustments may be made.

• 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. Please speak to your National Geographic Signature Specialist or booking agent for further details.

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

  Visas are the responsibility of the individual traveler. Requirements vary by nationality and destination, and rules can change. 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. For Tajikistan, British nationals and others not eligible for visa exemption must apply for an e-Visa, possibly also requiring an LOI. You must have at least two blank passport pages available for each country visited.

• What is Planeterra?

  Planeterra International Foundation is a non-profit organization committed to turning travel into impact by helping local communities earn an income from tourism. Planeterra connects underserved local communities to the benefits of tourism by developing and supporting small community-owned businesses. These businesses support Indigenous people, empower women, grant youth access to employment opportunities, and protect the environment. The tour operator is Planeterra’s largest corporate donor, covering all operating costs, so 100% of your donation will bring opportunity to people in need.

• What's included in this tour?

  The tour includes a Welcome Moment in Bishkek, a Kazakh Dinner in a Traditional Yurt in Almaty, a “Golden Man” Experience at Issyk State Historical and Cultural Reserve Museum, Bishkek City Walking Tour, Traditional Kyrgyz Dinner & Cultural Demonstration, Burana Tower Visit, Lunch and Village Immersion with Nomadic Traditions, Almaty City Tour, Central State Museum of the Republic of Kazakhstan, Huns Ethno Village Visit and Lunch, Guided City Tour of Dushanbe, Traditional Tajik Welcome Dinner, National Museum of Antiquities of Tajikistan, Historic Hissor Fortress & Madrasah, Local Family Visit & Cultural Experience, Guided City Tour of Tashkent, Farewell Dinner at the TV Tower, Engaging Discussions with the National Geographic Expedition Expert throughout, Porterage at hotels and when getting on and off of vehicles, Tips for all activities, meals and porterage (except for your Expedition Leader), and all transport between destinations and to/from included activities.

• 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 travelling between two different countries, international flights are included as part of the itinerary and price of the tour. Please speak to your National Geographic Signature Specialist or booking agent for further details. In addition, check-in times and baggage allowances/restrictions vary by airline and can change at any time. For the most up-to-date information for your flight, please contact your airline. We recommend checking in online in advance to avoid potential delays at the airport.

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

  Please be aware that flight delays can occur. Your Expedition Leader may need to make adjustments to your itinerary in case of flight schedule changes. Please be advised that any flights noted on the the tour operator Itinerary for this tour are included in the tour services provided. Flight tickets are provided by the tour operator during the tour. The date for this service will match the day of the itinerary, for which Day 1 is equal to the start date noted on the Invoice under Land Services: Tour. If flight information is required in advance for visa purposes, please contact the tour operator.

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

  Please note inoculations may be required for the country visited. It is your responsibility to consult with your travel doctor for up to date medical travel information well before departure. You should consult your doctor for up-to-date medical travel information well before departure. We recommend that you carry a First Aid kit and hand sanitizers / antibacterial wipes as well as any personal medical requirements. Please be aware that sometimes we are in remote areas and away from medical facilities, and for legal reasons our leaders are prohibited from administering any type of drug including headache tablets, antibiotics, etc. In Asia pharmacies tend to stock the same western drugs as you get at home but they are usually produced locally so please bring the full drug name with you when trying to purchase a prescription drug. When selecting your trip please carefully read the brochure and itinerary and assess your ability to cope with our style of travel. Please refer to the Physical and Culture Shock ratings for trip specific information. the tour operator reserves the right to exclude any traveller from all or part of a trip without refund if in the reasonable opinion of our Expedition Leader they are unable to complete the itinerary without undue risk to themselves and/or the rest of the group. Please note, Turkmenistan have strict advisories on prohibited medications which can be taken into the country. If you require further details, please reach out to our Sales team who will be able to advise further.

• How large will the group be?

  Max 22, avg. 18.

• How much emergency money should I bring on this trip?

  Please also make sure you have access to at least an additional USD $200 (or equivalent) as an 'emergency' fund, to be used when circumstances outside our control (ex. a natural disaster) require a change to our planned route. This is a rare occurrence!

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

  Every traveller is different and therefore spending money requirements will vary. Some travellers may drink more than others while other travellers like to purchase more souvenirs than most. Please consider your own spending habits when it comes to allowing for drinks, shopping and tipping. Please also remember the following specific recommendations when planning your trip.

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

  Central Asian dress is quite conservative. Plan to pack loose-fitting light clothing appropriate for hot weather and plan to cover knees, shoulders and chest. For women, a hair scarf is recommended, though they are easy to buy in country.

• Is there an extra cost for travelling solo?

  Yes, for those travelling solo there is a single supplement

• Is travel insurance required for my trip?

  Travel Insurance: Travel insurance is compulsory in order to participate on any of our trips. When travelling on a group trip, you will not be permitted to join the group until evidence of travel insurance has been sighted by your Expedition Leader, who will take note of your insurance details. When selecting a travel insurance policy please bear in mind that all clients must have medical coverage and that we require a minimum coverage of USD 200,000 for repatriation and emergency rescue. We strongly recommend that the policy also covers personal liability, cancellation, curtailment and loss of luggage and personal effects. If you have credit card insurance we require proof of purchase of the trip (a receipt of credit card statement) with a credit card in your name. Contact your bank for details of their participating insurer, the level of coverage and emergency contact telephone number.

• Should I be tipping on my trip?

  On our National Geographic Signature tours, tipping is included for all included activities and meals, and porterage. Tipping is not included for the Expedition Leader. Should you want some basic guidelines on tipping for the activities you do on your own, please see below. At the end of each trip if you felt your National Geographic Signature Expedition Leader did an outstanding job, tipping is appreciated. The amount is entirely a personal preference, however as a guideline would be $10-$15 per person per day. For meals and activities not included in your itinerary, it is appropriate in Central Asia to tip 3-5%. Though not compulsory, tipping is not expected in the region. In addition, please note that tipping is not required or expected for the Expedition Expert.

• What activities are optional on this trip?

  No optional activities

• What are the main highlights of this trip?

  Gain insight into local conservation with a talk by a National Geographic Explorer, Enjoy pre-opening access and a curator talk on the Scythian 'Golden Man' treasure, Witness traditional games and activities, followed by a home-hosted Kyrgyz lunch, Explore Tajikistan's National Museum with an archaeologist focusing on Buddhist history, Tour Soviet monuments before a panoramic farewell dinner atop the Tashkent TV Tower.

• What are the modes of transportation on my trip?

  Private Vehicle, Metro, Plane, Walking.

• 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 - you won't need it while travelling. 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 do I need to know about safety and security on my trip?

  Many national governments provide a regularly updated advice service on safety issues involved with international travel. We recommend that you check your government's advice for their latest travel information before departure. 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 jewelery at home - you won't need it while travelling. 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. When travelling on a group trip, please note that your group leader has the authority to amend or cancel any part of the trip itinerary if it deemed necessary, due to safety concerns. Your Expedition Leader will accompany you on all included activities. During your trip you will have some free time to pursue your own interests, relax and take it easy and explore at your leisure. While your Expedition Leader will assist you with options available in a given location, please note that any optional activities you undertake are not part of your itinerary, and we offer no representations about the safety of the activity or the standard of the operators running them. Please use your own good judgement when selecting an activity in your free time. Although the cities visited on tour are generally safe during the day, there can be risks to wandering throughout any major city at night. It is our recommendation to stay in small groups and to take taxis to and from restaurants, or during night time excursions. Water based activities have an element of danger and excitement built into them. We recommend only participating in water based activities when accompanied by a guide(s). We make every reasonable effort to ensure the fun and adventurous element of any water based activities (in countries with varying degrees of operating standards), have a balanced approach to safety. It is our policy not to allow our Expedition Leaders to make arrangements on your behalf for water based activities that are not accompanied by guide(s). Swimming, including snorkeling, is always at your own risk. Read more about travel safety for ways to further enhance your personal safety while traveling.

• What is Planeterra?

  Planeterra International Foundation is a non-profit organization committed to turning travel into impact by helping local communities earn an income from tourism. Planeterra connects underserved local communities to the benefits of tourism by developing and supporting small community-owned businesses. These businesses support Indigenous people, empower women, grant youth access to employment opportunities, and protect the environment. Planeterra also works to ensure these businesses have a thriving customer base by integrating their projects into the tour operator’ itineraries globally. the tour operator is Planeterra’s largest corporate donor, covering all operating costs, so 100% of your donation will bring opportunity to people in need. the tour operator Dollar-a-day Program - Make Every Day Count - Turn your travel into impact with Planeterra Foundation. Did you know? Most communities around the world do not benefit from tourism. Give back to the places you visit on your travels by creating opportunities for local people to earn an income, and protect the environment. Make every day count by donating $1/day for the length of your trip, and join us in empowering the communities you will visit when you travel. 100% of your donation goes directly to Planeterra projects.

• What meals are included in this trip?

  8 breakfasts, 4 lunches, 5 dinners

• What rules should I know before joining this trip?

  Illegal drugs will not be tolerated on any trips. Possessing or using drugs not only contravenes the laws of the land but also puts the rest of the group at risk. Smoking marijuana and opium is a part of local culture in some parts of the world but is not acceptable for our travellers. Our philosophy of travel is one of respect towards everyone we encounter, and in particular the local people who make the world the special place it is. The exploitation of prostitutes is completely contrary to this philosophy. Our Expedition Leader have the right to expel any member of the group if drugs are found in their possession or if they use prostitutes.

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

  In general Central Asia is a cash operating region, and travellers cheques are not recommended. Due to bank restrictions, only banknotes printed after 1996 can be exchanged. Better to bring notes without marks or stamps on them. We recommend to bring about 70 USD in small denominations: 1, 5 and 10 USD notes. If you are not able to get local currency it's always possible to pay in USD or EUR. Uzbekistan: There are lots of ATM's to withdraw local currency (UZS), and banks around to exchange USD or EUR. Travellers cheques are not recommended, as only limited amount of banks work with them. Please, note that you can withdraw only local currency (Uzbek Sums) from ATM's. Some banks in Tashkent allow USD cash advance, but this option depends on the amount of USD cash in the bank. Kazakhstan: The preferred currency for local transactions is the tenge, and local establishments rarely accept credit cards so keep cash on hand. ATMs in Kazakhstan are accessible in the larger cities, and withdrawals can be made by credit card. There are many currency exchange locations available to exchange EUR, USD, GBP, Russian rouble, Kyrgyz som and Chinese yuan. Kyrgyzstan: The preferred currency for local transactions is the som, and local establishments rarely accept credit cards so keep cash on hand. There are many of ATMs accessible in Bishkek and other larger cities such as Cholpon Ata and Karakol. Larger cities will also have money exchange locations that will trade EUR, USD, Roubles; some locations will trade GBP, and Chinese yuan. Tajikistan: The preferred currency for local transactions is the somoni, and local establishments rarely accept credit cards so keep cash on hand. You may be able to pay in USD and EUR in some places, however, it is recommended that you take out somoni at ATMs in Dushanbe; there are very few ATMs outside of Dushanbe, and those that exist are less dependable.

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

  The safety and well-being of all of our travelers is a priority at the tour operator and that includes our travelers who identify as part of the LGBTQ+ community. We recognize that there are specific concerns and questions you may have about your adventure in terms of safety and security. We encourage you to visit our 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 are the visas and entry requirements for my trip?

  Please note that visas are the responsibility of the individual traveller. The visa requirements for your trip vary depending on where you are from and where you are going. We keep the following information up to date as much as possible, but rules do change. It is important that you check for yourself with the Embassy. Please, keep in mind that all countries require passports valid for at least 6 months from the moment of departure from the country. Visa information specific to your destination and nationality can be found in our Important Pre-Departure Information page here. KAZAKHSTAN: If you require a Letter of Invitation (LOI) to apply for a Kazakhstan visa, please fill out & submit the following request form. KYRGYZSTAN: If you require a Letter of Invitation (LOI) to apply for a Kyrgyzstan visa, please fill out & submit the following request form. IMPORTANT NOTE: If you require an LOI (Letter of Invitation) for your Visa application for Kyrgyzstan, you will be subject to a processing fee of $50USD (or currency equivalent) per person. This is charged by Ministry of Foreign Affairs. TAJIKISTAN: British nationals and other nationalities who are not eligible for visa exemption, must apply for an e-Visa. Your application can be made via the official e-Visa Tajikistan page. Please note, a GBAO Permit is not required for this tour. Following your e-Visa application, you may be required to also provide a Letter Of Invitation (LOI). To ensure you have all of the documents required at time of applications, the following is recommended: - 30-60 days before your departure, apply for your LOI here - as per the Tajikistan e-Visa site, apply for your e-Visa 2 weeks before your trip If you require a Letter of Invitation (LOI) to apply for a Tajikistan visa, please fill out & submit the following request form. Address in Tajikistan: Dushanbe – “Crown Plaza Dushanbe” – District Sino, Nizomi Ganchavi Street 1 If required: The local operator in Tajikistan – “Panjakent Intour” Address: 12, Borbadi Marvazi street, Panjakent Tel: +992 3475 56674 UZBEKISTAN: If you require a Letter of Invitation (LOI) to apply for a Uzbekistan visa, please fill out & submit the following request form. You must have at least two blank passport pages available for each country you will visit on your tour. These are required for entry & exit stamps. Information accurate as of April 1st, 2024.

• What is included in the tour price?

  Your Welcome Moment: Welcome Moment - Meet Your Expedition Leader and Group, Bishkek. Your Foodie Moment: Kazakh Dinner in Traditional Yurt, Almaty. Signature Moment: “Golden Man” Experience at Issyk State Historical and Cultural Reserve Museum, Almaty. Arrival and departure transfer. Bishkek City Walking Tour. Free time in Bishkek. Traditional Kyrgyz Dinner & Cultural Demonstration. Burana Tower Visit. Lunch and Village Immersion with Nomadic Traditions. Almaty City Tour. Central State Museum of the Republic of Kazakhstan. Huns Ethno Village Visit and Lunch. Free Time in Almaty. Guided City Tour of Dushanbe. Traditional Tajik Welcome Dinner. National Museum of Antiquities of Tajikistan. Historic Hissor Fortress & Madrasah. Local Family Visit & Cultural Experience. Free time in Dushanbe. Guided City Tour of Tashkent. Farewell Dinner at the TV Tower. Engaging Discussions with the National Geographic Expedition Expert throughout. Porterage at hotels and when getting on and off of vehicles. Tips are included for all activities, meals and porterage, except for your Expedition Leader. All transport between destinations and to/from included activities.

• Where will we stay during the trip?

  Hotels (8 nights)

• Who should I contact in case of an emergency?

  Should you need to contact us during a situation of dire need, it is best to first call either the the tour operator Local Representative (if one is listed below) or our the tour operator Local Office. If for any reason you do not receive an immediate answer, please leave a detailed message and contact information, so they may return your call and assist you as soon as possible. AIRPORT TRANSFER: If you have purchased an arrival through the tour operator or if an arrival transfer is included in the cost of your tour, please note that: Your arrival transfer has been arranged based on flight information provided to us. If you are advised of a flight schedule change or flight cancellation within 48 hours of your scheduled arrival time, please call the emergency contact number to advise of your new arrival flight information. If you do not, we will not be able to rearrange your arrival transfer and you will need to make your own way to the starting hotel at your own expense. If your arrival transfer does not arrive within 30 minutes after you have exited the arrivals area please take a taxi to your start point hotel. If your call is specifically concerning Airport Transfer complications please call our local the tour operator Transfer provider directly: Mr. Arlan +996700602090, Mrs. Asel +996777202888 EMERGENCY CONTACT NUMBERS: the tour operator Office Central Asia: Mr. Laziz Otayarov (Operations Manager - Central Asia) Mobile 1: +99890 963 4779 (24h) If you are unable for any reason to contact our local office, please call the numbers listed below which will connect you directly with our Sales team who will happily assist you. Hours of operation by region can be found here. Toll-free, North America only: 1 800 394 5416 Calls from UK: 0800 041 8146 Calls from Germany: 0800 181 9454 Calls from Australia: 1 800 204 905 Calls from New Zealand: 0800 424 389 Outside North America, Australia, New Zealand, Germany and the UK: +1 416 260 0999

• Who will be leading the group?

  National Geographic Expedition Leader and National Geographic Expedition Expert