Land Tour
26 days
$AUD 583 per day
Departure: Kazakhstan
Arrival: Uzbekistan
Adventure
Private / Tailor made
Turkmenistan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan and Uzbekistan make up the five ‘stans’ of central Asia.
Sapphire lakes, sheer peaks capped with snow, wild nomadic frontiers, cobalt architecture and a tangle of fascinating history, these almost untouched nations provide travellers with some of the most incredible and fresh travel experiences on our planet.
A true exploration into a bygone era as you uncover time-frozen cultures, a jumble of Soviet and Persian history, Silk Road trade routes and jaw-dropping beauty unlike anywhere else and that transitions into the modern world. From barren deserts, crystal rivers and glistening glaciers juxtaposed with grand white marble cities and urbane metropolises. An immersive and rewarding journey for those privy to embrace a region only just peering out of the mystery that has surrounded these countries for so long.]]>
* Pricing is subject to change at anytime until full payment has been received.
* A minimum of 4 adults is required to guarantee this departure.
A non-refundable deposit of 30% per person is required to secure your place. Final payment is due no later than 60 days prior to departure. Travel insurance is mandatory for travelling with Crooked Compass. For full terms and conditions, please click here.]]>
Welcome to Turkmenistan! On arrival in Ashgabat, you will be met by your driver and transferred to your hotel. The remainder of the day is at leisure. Ashgabat, the capital of Turkmenistan is known for its white marble buildings and grand natural monuments.
Meals
None
Accommodation
Yyldyz Hotel or similar
Services
Airport transfer
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Ashgabat Highlights
Begin your day exploring Ashgabat, the capital of Turkmenistan that has recently been noted by the Guinness Book of World Records as having more white marble buildings than any other city in the world. During your city tour, you will visit the Monument of Neutrality, Presidential Square, Ertugrul Gazi Mosque, the newly built Independence Park, and the Lenin Monument.
Door to Hell
In the late afternoon, your guide and driver will meet you in your hotel lobby where you will depart for Darvaza gas crater located in the middle of Karakum desert. Known as the ‘Door to Hell’, expect 280 km of desert sands with the journey taking about 4 hours. Arrive just before dusk, the best time to see the unique gas crater flame away into the remoteness of the Karakum desert. Upon arrival have a delicious BBQ dinner near the burning crater. At night, in an empty desert with only the stars for company, red light emanates from the ground in the distance, and a distant rumble presages the crater. Shooting flames and fireballs cross its crater, like a volcano – the crater must be viewed at night for full effect. In the morning, wake up to a desert sunrise.
Meals
Breakfast, Dinner
Accommodation
Overnight camping – tents & sleeping bags provided
Services
Private vehicle with English-speaking guide
Distance and Journey Time:
Ashgabat – Darwaza (approx. 257km, 4-5 hours’ drive), city touring (4 hours by bus)
Walking Distance: Approximately 12km
Walking Time: Approximately 3-4hours
Difficulty: Moderate, with no shade and a steady incline
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After enjoying your camp-style breakfast, drive back to Ashgabat (270 km, 5h due to bad road conditions) and check in to your hotel.
Later that day you will explore the archaeological site of Old Nisa (a UNESCO World Heritage-listed site) and the Turkmenbashy Spiritual Mosque, one of the biggest mosques in Central Asia. Drive to visit the Carpet Museum, one of the best in Central Asia featuring designs from the Tekke, Yamud, Sarik and Chodor tribes. The Turkmen Carpet Museum is one of the cultural centres of Turkmenistan, where about 2000 carpet exhibits, including rare ones, are exhibited. The museum has the world’s largest hand carpet with a total area of 301 m², which was woven in 2001, and in 2003 it was added to the Guinness Book of Records.
Complimentary night drive in Ashgabat to see the town in lights.
Meals
Breakfast
Accommodation
Yyyldyz Hotel or similar
Services
Private vehicle with English-speaking guide
Distance and Journey Time
Darwaza – Ashgabat (270km, 4-5 hours, poor road conditions), City touring (3 hours by bus)
Walking Distance: Approximately 8km
Walking Time: Approximately 2-3hours
Difficulty: Moderate, with shade
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This morning, depart for Nohur mountain village tucked into the Kopet Dag Mountains. Visit the Gokdepe Mosque, Akhalteke horse farm, and Kow-Ata underground lake on the way.
Time permitting, you may be able to swim in the underground lake. Continue on to explore a tribal cemetery and participate in a silk weaving workshop. Drive back to Ashgabat.
Meals
Breakfast, Packed Lunch
Accommodation
Overnight at Yyldyz Hotel or similar
Services
Private vehicle with English-speaking guide
Distance and Journey Time
5hr drive by bus
Walking Distance: Approximately 10km
Walking Time: Approximately 2-3hours
Difficulty: Moderate, with no shade and a steady incline
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An early start this morning as you transfer to the airport for your flight to Almaty at 08:50 am (is subject to change). Upon arrival in Almaty at 12:35 pm, you will set off to explore Almaty.
Your tour starts with sightseeing in the central part of Almaty. You learn about the history and development of the Southern capital of Kazakhstan and see its major attractions. Your tour will continue in one of the oldest Almaty parks – Panfilov Park, where one of the most beautiful wooden buildings in the world – Zenkov Cathedral is located. You will also visit the Memorial of Glory and Eternal Flame, dedicated to the memory of the fighters who died for the freedom and independence of the country.
Discover the Central State Museum and Republic Square. Your next destination is the Kok-Tobe hill where the tallest TV tower in the world is located (from sea level) and where you will travel via the picturesque winding mountain road. In Kok-Tobe Park, you can stroll along the winding paths of the park, admire the magnificent panorama of the city from the special observation deck and visit the shop of national souvenirs.
From here, visit Medeo Gorge, well known for being home to the highest mountain skating rink in the world and the dam, protecting the city from dangerous mudflow. Take a brief walk around with a chance to take your mountain-view pictures and breathe the fresh pine tree air. Check into your hotel. The remainder of the day is at leisure.
Meals
Breakfast
Accommodation
KazZhol Park Hotel or a similar
Services
Private vehicle with English-speaking guide
Distance and Journey Time
2 hr drive by bus
Walking Distance: Approximately 6-8 km
Walking Time: Approximately 2-3 hours
Difficulty: Moderate, with no shade and a steady incline
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Drive to the Big Almaty gorge, where located at an altitude of 2,510m above sea level, you will find the Big Almaty Lake – one of the most picturesque lakes in Trans-Ili Alatau. The lake is beautiful, especially when its blue surface is calm, and it reflects the sky and surrounding mountains. The Big Almaty Lake was formed as a result of the movement of an ancient glacier. Thanks to its high-mountain location, the water in the lake is always cool – even in July, the water temperature ds not exceed 10 degrees.
On the way back to the town, you will visit a Falcon Farm, where you will enjoy a spectacular show with specially trained falcons – hunting with them is one of the most unique features of the Kazakh way of life and an age-old tradition still practised today and also in the west of Mongolia.
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch
Accommodation
KazZhol Park Hotel or similar
Services
Private vehicle with English-speaking guide
Distance and Journey Time
2-3 hr drive by bus
Walking Distance: Approximately 6-8 km
Walking Time: Approximately 2-3 hours
Difficulty: Moderate, with no shade and a steady incline
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Depart early from Almaty at 07:00 am to Saty (280km, 4-5 hours’ drive). Upon arrival at Saty, you will check in at your guest house, where you will spend the next two nights. After lunch, you will change vehicles to an AWD local car, such as “UAZ” or “PAZ” (Russian car models), as they are fully capable of covering uneven mountain roads (12 km, approx. 1 hour) to the beautiful Kaindy Lake.
Kaindy Lake (Birch Lake) is situated among magnificent pine forests at an altitude of 2000m above sea level and is famous for its origin. It was formed in 1911 due to a powerful earthquake which triggered a landslide and blocked the valley causing a natural dam, and the water flooded the valley. The water in the lake is very cold – the chilling temperatures preserve the pine needles of the flooded trees which are visible through the crystal-clear surface of the water. Dry stems of fir trees overlook the water’s surface, like the masts of a submarine squadron. It is impossible to describe in words the mystical splendour of the lake. After walking around the lake, return to Saty settlement to freshen up and enjoy dinner.
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation
Kolsai Grand Hotel
Services
Private vehicle with English-speaking guide
Distance and Journey Time
280 km, 5-7 hr drive by bus
Walking Distance: Approximately 5-6 km
Walking Time: Approximately 1-2 hours
Difficulty: Moderate, with no shade and a steady incline
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The Kolsai Lakes, known as the ‘Pearls of the Northern Tien-Shan’, represent a cascade of three lakes. The largest lake is accessible to all travellers. It is the most beautiful lake, with a lack of civilisation and an abundance of wild mushrooms. For those who are horse lovers, there is the option to explore on horseback. The highest lake is small. It is located on the border of firewood and the alpine meadows and amazes with its harsh alpine beauty, as well as the rich flora and fauna. The vertical drop between the three lakes is about 700m. The lowest lake can be reached by car. Walk a few kilometres along mountain trails to see the second and third lakes. This will be one of your highlights. This area is rich in berries, mushrooms, and fishing. The water in the lakes is cold and clean and is home to the rainbow trout – a fish that lives only in running or spring water. In the surrounding mountains, you can see many birds, Marals, mountain goats, wolves and even bears.
Having arrived at Kolsay-1 Lake and after brief instructions, you will start trekking. The route lies on the bank of the lake and continues with the path through the pine forest, and alpine meadows along a pure mountain river flowing all the way down from Kolsai-2 Lake. The total walking distance between the two lakes is about 7 km and usually takes 3-3,5 hours one way. The altitude rises up more than 400m, from 1818m above sea level at the first lake to 2250 m at the second lake. There is no category of difficulty and the route is accessible for healthy, average-trained people. Enjoying your lunch in front of the cold and pure-clean lake in the surroundings of magnificent mountain peaks.
Enjoy an afternoon walk back to Kolsai-1 Lake and drive back to your hotel.
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation
Kolsai Grand Hotel
Services
Private vehicle with English-speaking guide
Distance and Journey Time
1 hr drive by bus
Walking Distance: Approximately 14-15 km
Walking Time: Approximately 6-7 hours
Difficulty: Moderate, with no difficulties for trained people
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Depart the village and farewell your local friends and drive to Samarkand. Upon arrival in Samarkand, visit Koni Ghil Silk Paper Centre and check in to your hotel.
Meals
Breakfast
Accommodation
Arka Boutique Hotel or similar
Services
Private vehicle with English-speaking guide
Distance and Journey Time
Nurata – Samarkand (approx. 220km, 4 hours)
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Today you will explore the main attractions in Samarkand including the Registan, which is a plaza bordered by 3 ornate, majolica-covered madrassas dating to the 15th and 17th centuries. You also have the chance to explore Gur Emir, the towering tomb of Timur (Tamerlane), founder of the Timurid Empire.
You will also visit the Shakhizinda, which is a necropolis in the north-eastern part of Samarkand and the remains of Bibi Khanum Mosque which is one of the most important monuments of Samarkand. Siyob Bazaar and Ulugbek Observatory will also be visited.
Meals
Breakfast
Accommodation
Arka Boutique Hotel or similar
Services
Private vehicle with English-speaking guide
Walking Time & Distances
Ulugbek Observatory (approx. 2-3km) 45 minutes, easy walk.
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Today you will transfer to the Jartepa border crossing to cross over into Tajikistan.
Once you have completed customs and passport control, you will meet your driver in Tajikistan. Visit Sarazm ruins – Sarazm is one of the ancient settlements in Central Asia with over 5500 years of civilisation. In 2010, Sarazm was added to the list of the Human heritage by UNESCO.
Seven Lakes
Drive to the Seven Lakes which are located in the west of the beautiful Fann Mountains: Mijgon, Soya, Hushyor, Nophin lakes (2139m), Khurdak, Marguzor and Hazorchashma lakes (2400m); each of them has its own colour which varies from a calming turquoise to mesmerising purple. At the last lake of Khoazorchashma, you will enjoy a picnic lunch.
Light Hiking and Return to Penjikent
Enjoy some light hiking in this stunning region. The Fann Mountains are part of the western Pamir-Alay Mountain system and are primarily located in Tajikistan’s Sughd Province between the Zarafshan Range to the north and the Gissary Range to the south. Enjoy a picnic at the lakes before you drive back to Penjikent and your hotel for dinner.
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation
Penjikent Plaza Hotel or similar
ServicesPrivate vehicle with English-speaking guide
Distance and Journey Time
Samarkand – Border Crossing (60km, 1 hour), Total driving for the day: 5 hours
Walking Distance: Approximately 4km
Walking Time: Approximately 3 hours
Difficulty: Moderate, with no shade and a steady incline
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Following breakfast, enjoy sightseeing in Penjikent where you will visit the Museum of Rudaki – Penjikent is the birthplace of Abu Abdallah Rudaki, and is considered by many to be the father of Persian Ptry. Explore ancient Penjikent with its ruins of old Sogdian town founded in the 5th century and abandoned in the 8th century by Arabs. Foundations of houses, a citadel with a couple of Zoroastrian fire temples and a city bazaar are visible in the excavated ruins. Drive to Dushanbe.
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation
Atlas Hotel or similar
Services
Private vehicle with English-speaking guide
Distance and Journey Time
Penjikent – Dushanbe (260km, 5-6 hr drive)
Walking Distance: Approximately 3 km
Walking Time: Approximately 2 hours
Difficulty: Moderate, with no shade and a steady incline
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After breakfast, farewell to your guesthouse host family and depart to Charyn Canyon at 08:00 am. It will take about 2 hours to reach the canyon. Upon arrival, admire the grand panorama and go down to the bottom of the canyon to walk around 2 km through the maze of the Valley of the Castles.
Charyn Canyon is a natural complex, unique in its kind not only in Kazakhstan but also worldwide. It was formed during the Paleogene and reminds you of the Grand Canyon in North America, although inferior to it in size. The height of the steep slopes of the canyon is up to 150-300m. The extraordinary dissection of the terrain is striking: the numerous ravines form a dense, chaotic network. Wind and water have created the beautiful ‘Valley of Castles’, where you are always surrounded by fancy towers composed of sedimentary rocks. The length of the valley is more than 2km and its width is 20-80m. For millions of years, nature has been creating a unique architecture, erecting magnificent castles carefully and slowly. You can spend hours walking amongst the strange towers and columns, being absorbed in the wild imagination of nature.
The bottom of the canyon has a slight descent to the end of the walk, where you will reach the fresh oasis on the banks of the icy cold Charyn River. Here there is a small eco-park with several yurts (traditional dwellings) and a small open air café, operating in the summer months. Relax and take in the surrounding beauty before walking back and driving to one of the observation points for another breathtaking panoramic view. After 3-4 hours spent in the canyon, you will depart to Karakol (200 km). Your lunch today will be served in a local café in the canyon.
Following lunch, transfer to the Kazakh-Kyrgyz border Kegen (95 km). After completing border formalities, you will transfer to Karakol via Karkara Valley (110 km). Dinner this evening is with in Uigur family where you will try traditional cuisine.
Meals
Breakfast, Packed Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation
GreenYard Hotel or similar
Services
Private vehicle with English-speaking guide
Distance and Journey Time: around 300 km, 5-6 hr drive by bus
Walking Distance: Approximately 4-5 km
Walking Time: Approximately 1-1,5 hours
Difficulty: Moderate, with no difficulties for trained people
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After breakfast transfer to Son-Kul (120km). Son-Kul is one of the highest lakes in Kyrgyzstan (3016m above sea level). It’s a place where you can experience true nomadic life. You will have a chance to ride a horse, see edelweiss flowers, camels, yaks, and golden eagles, and see how local women make the Kyrgyz national drink – Kymyz (mare’s milk). This is a remote mountain lake situated on a treeless, high mountain plateau where shepherds bring their livestock in the summertime and establish a camp where they will live for the season and set up their yurts. In this area of beauty, you will see hundreds of herds of animals and their shepherds as well as many different yurts.
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation
Yurt camp or similar
Services
Private vehicle with English-speaking guide
Distance and Journey Time: Kochor – Son-Kul (approx. 120 km) 3 hr drive by bus
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This morning, you will visit a traditional wooden Orthodox Church and Dungan Mosque which is built in Chinese style. From here, continue to Jety-Oguz Gorge. Enjoy a short hike in the gorge and then transfer along the southern shore of Issyk-Kul Lake. On the way stop in Bokonbaevo, where you will see an eagle hunting show. Continue driving to Kochkor where one of the best views on the Issyk-Kul Lake is guaranteed. This evening, you will have Kyrgyz cuisine for dinner.
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation
Nomad Lodge Hotel or similar
Services
Private vehicle with English-speaking guide
Distance and Journey Time
around 280 km, 5-6 hr drive by bus
Walking Distance: Approximately 2-3 km
Walking Time: Approximately 1 hour
Difficulty: Moderate, with no difficulties for trained people
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People have been living in the Nurata Mountains since the times of Alexander the Great. Villagers’ houses and farms are as they were done centuries ago. Women cook on the open fire, weave, spin yarn, bake their own bread, and milk the cows. The men farm, shepherd, and built houses of stone, rocks and clay. Enjoy exploring the village, watching birds, hiking the surroundings and participating in cooking traditional food with the locals.
Meals
Breakfast, Dinner
Accommodation
Paradise Plaza or similar
Services
Private vehicle with English-speaking guide
Walking Time & Distances
Exploring Nurata Mountains (approx. 2-5km) 3-4 hours walking, moderate difficulty with shady stops.
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This morning, you will transfer to Bishkek (400km). On the way visit a felt carpet workshop in Kochkor, where you can see the traditional process of making Kyrgyz felt carpets. After lunch, continue driving to Bishkek. On the way, you will stop to see Burana Tower, which is left from the ancient city Balasagyn (XI – XIII).
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch
Accommodation
Plaza Hotel or similar
Services
Private vehicle with English-speaking guide
Distance and Journey Time
Son-Kul – Bishkek (approx. 330 km), 6-7 hr drive by bus
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This morning, you will depart Bukhara and drive to a village located in the Nurata Mountains. On arrival in Ashraf or Yangi Hayot village, you will spend the evening in a local guesthouse. Both villages are located far from roads and cities and sit in a picturesque mountain area with crisp fresh air, lush green orchards, singing birds, sky blanketed in stars and friendly people.
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation
Paradise Plaza or similar
Services
Private vehicle with English-speaking guide
Distance and Journey Time
Bukhara – Nurata (approx. 300km) 5-6 hours with photo stops.
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In the morning, depart for Ala-Archa National Park (40km). The stunning alpine gorge is pushed through with the fast-flowing Ala-Archa River runs. The gorge is flanked by tall, snow-covered peaks with steep-sided, forested, mountain slopes. Enjoy a gentle hike in the gorge. Return to Bishkek where the remainder of the day is free at leisure. This evening you will enjoy dinner with a traditional folklore shore.
Meals
Breakfast, Dinner
Accommodation
Plaza Hotel or similar
Services
Private vehicle with English-speaking guide
Distance and Journey Time
Bishkek – Ala-Archa (around 80 km return), 2 hr drive by bus
Walking Distance: Approximately 5-6 km
Walking Time: Approximately 2 hours
Difficulty: Moderate
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Enjoy breakfast in your hotel. Transfer to the railway station to meet your train departing for Bukhara at 9:12 am (480km). The Great Silk Road was once routed through Bukhara and Khiva and ran through the Kyzylkum Desert, as the present road ds nowadays. Upon arrival at 16:17, transfer to your hotel.
Meals
Breakfast
Accommodation
Paradise Plaza or similar
Services
Private vehicle with English-speaking guide
Train ride to Bukhara
Distance and Journey Time
Khiva to Bukhara by train (480km) approx. 7 hours.
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Following an early morning breakfast, transfer to the domestic airport for your flight to Urgench (1hr 40 min). Upon arrival, you will be met and transferred to your hotel.
Today you will visit Ichan-Kala Fortress which is a UNESCO World Heritage site. You will also visit Mukhammad Amin Khan Madrasah, Mukhammad Rahimkhan Madrasah, Kalta Minor, Juma Mosque, Toshkhovli Palace, Pakhlavan Makhmud Mausoleum. If you are feeling energetic, you may take the time to climb Islom Khodja Minaret, the highest minaret in Uzbekistan. Enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of Old Khiva in Kunya-Ark.
Meals
Breakfast
Accommodation
Orient Star Khiva or similar
Services
Airport transfer
Private vehicle with English-speaking guide
Distance and Journey Time: Hotel – Airport (30km, 35 minutes), Flight from Tashkent – Urgench (1 hr 40 min).
Walking Time & Distances: Islom Khodja Minaret climb (2-3km) 7-8 hours. Moderate difficulty with lots of stops and time to sit.
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This morning, you will start exploring Tashkent, the biggest city in Central Asia. Start in the old City part of Tashkent with the Khast-Imam Complex where the world-famous holy book Quran of Caliph Uthman has been preserved. In Khast-Imam visit Madrasah of Barak-Khan, Tillya Sheykh Mosque, the Mausoleum of the Saint Abu Bakr Kaffal Shashi and the Islamic Institute of Imam al-Bukhari.
Explore Choru Bazaar. This bazaar is one of the largest and most popular in the capital. Covered by seven domes tiled with coloured ceramic designs, mingle amongst the longest as they bargain and barter amongst themselves. Local farmers come from far and wide to sell products of their own production. Let your senses take over as you inhale the aromas of different Eastern spices, vegetables and fruits. Continuing on, you will also visit Kukeldash madrasah, the largest madrasah and one of the most famous historical monuments of Tashkent.
Then take a ride on Tashkent Metro to the city centre to explore Amir Timur Square, Independence Square and the Applied Arts Museum.
Meals
Breakfast
Accommodation
Manor Hotel or similar
Services
Private vehicle with English-speaking guide
Distance and Journey Time
Tashkent Metro to City Centre (30 minutes)
Walking Time & Distances: Tashkent City Walk (approx. 0.5km) 1 hour 30 minutes, Choru Bazaar (approx. 1.5km) staircases to manage and can be crowded, Amir Timur and Independence Square (approx. 1.5km) 1 hour walk.
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This morning you will transfer to the airport for your flight to Tashkent.
Welcome to Uzbekistan! Upon arrival at Tashkent airport, you will be met and transferred to your hotel (approx. 20-30 min).
The remainder of the day is yours at leisure. Uzbekistan is the proud home to a spellbinding infusion of architecture and ancient cities, all deeply intertwined with the bloody, fascinating history of the Silk Road.
Meals
N/A
Accommodation
Manor Hotel or similar
Services
Airport transfer
Private vehicle with English-speaking guide
Domestic Economy flight to Tashkent
Distance and Journey Time
Airport – Hotel, 20-30min
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National Museum of Antiquities
After breakfast, start a guided city tour with a visit to the Tajikistan National Museum of Antiquities with exhibits primarily from Tajikistan’s pre-Islamic civilisations: the Greek, Bactrian, Buddhist, Hindu, and Zoroastrian periods. The most notable piece in the museum is the largest, fifteen-hundred-year-old reclining Buddha statue.
Ismail Samani Monument
Next on the itinerary is a stop at the Ismail Samani monument, honouring the first king of Tajiks and the founder of the Samanid State, whose influence extended across Central Asia, Afghanistan, and Iran during the 9th and 10th centuries.
Rudaki Central Park to Hissar Fortress
Stroll through Central Park, later named Rudaki Park, commemorating the founder of modern Persian ptry during the 9th and 10th centuries.
Your city tour includes Independence Square, the Palace of the Nation and the National Library and then onto the Botanical Garden. As you venture into the vibrant heart of the city, immerse yourself in the bustling ambience of the Bazaar, an emblematic oriental market that epitomises the lively spirit of Dushanbe.
Lastly, you will visit Hissar Fortress, a historic site dating back to the 18th century and occupied until 1924. Nearby, you’ll discover two plain Madrassahs—one from the 18th century and the other from the 19th century. Further, a 16th-century mausoleum graces the landscape.
In the evening, indulge in a delightful dinner at a restaurant, complete with an engaging show program to cap off your day of exploration.
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation
Atlas Hotel or similar
Services
Private vehicle with English-speaking guide
Distance and Journey Time
3-4 hr drive
Walking Distance: Approximately 2 km
Walking Time: Approximately 1.5 hours
Difficulty: Moderate, with no shade and a steady incline
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Bukhara was a prominent stop on the Silk Road trade route between the East and the West and a major medieval centre for Islamic theology and culture. It still contains hundreds of well-preserved mosques, madrassas bazaars and caravanserais, dating largely from the 9th to the 17th centuries. Spend your day in fascinating Old Bukhara which is listed by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site. Explore Kalyan Minaret, Kalyan Mosque and Miri-Arab Madrasah, Magoki-Attori Mosque, madrasahs of Ulugbek and Abdulazizkhan, trade domes, Lyabi Hauz Ensemble, Chor-Minor Madrasah and others.
Meals
Breakfast
Accommodation
Paradise Plaza or similar
Services
Private vehicle with English-speaking guide
Distance and Journey Time
Exploring Bukhara (approx. 3-4km) 8-9 hours walk and driving with breaks for drinks, lunch and photo stops.
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Today is yours at leisure until it is time to transfer to the airport for your onward departure.
Meals
Breakfast
Services
Airport transfer
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a. the delivery or non-delivery of the Travel Product; or
b. any act or omission of Providers or other third parties.
15. Apart from the rights you have under the Trade Practices Act that cannot be lawfully excluded, we shall not be liable for any inconvenience, delay, loss, death, injury or damage to you or your belongings or otherwise caused directly or indirectly by the acts, omissions or default, whether negligent or otherwise, of third party suppliers, force majeure or any other event which is beyond our control.
16. Nothing in these terms and conditions is intended to exclude or restrict the application of consumer guarantees under consumer protection law.
Liability of the Provider
17. Once you have acquired Booking & Advisory Services from us, the Provider will provide you with the Travel Product on the terms and conditions agreed between you and the Provider. You should obtain and read the Provider's terms and conditions before acquiring Booking & Advisory Services from us.
18. The Provider is liable to you for a breach of obligations in providing you with the Travel Product.
19. As an agent of the Provider, we have no control over or liability for, the services provided by Providers. We cannot guarantee the performance of the Provider and we have no liability in respect of the supply of any Travel Products including any liability in contract, tort or otherwise, for any injury, damage, loss, delay, additional expense or inconvenience caused directly or indirectly by any provider of travel services or products by Providers. All bookings with us are subject to the terms and conditions and limitations of liability imposed by the Provider.
Booking Terms
20. The Travel Products offered are subject to availability and can be withdrawn without notice by the Provider. Travel Products may also change at any time in accordance with any Provider's terms and conditions.
21. When making a booking, you must provide details of each traveller correctly. We have no responsibility for any loss or damage arising from the incorrect entry of a traveller's details.
22. Travel Products obtained through the Booking & Advisory Services are not guaranteed until payment has been made in full and documents have been processed.
23. It is your responsibility to contact the Provider prior to departure to ensure there is no change to the scheduled departure time.
24. Most airlines offer only electronic confirmation of your reservation, or 'e-ticketing'. We cannot be held responsible if your e-ticket does not arrive due to an incorrect email address or your junk email settings. You must notify us immediately if you change your email address or contact telephone number after making a booking. It is your responsibility to advise us if you have not received your e-ticket confirmation.
25. When making a booking you must advise your consultant of any medical, dietary or mobility conditions you may have.
26. When making a booking you must advise us if you are pregnant.
Payment Terms
27. All pricing is reflected in Australian Dollars unless otherwise specified.
28. All pricing is inclusive of goods and services tax (GST), or other such value added taxes where applicable.
29. Payments processed in foreign currency (currency other than the original card holders country of issue), may incur a currency conversion fee. Please refer to your financial institution for applicable fees.
30. We sell Travel Products in two different ways:
a. as merchant, where we take payment directly from you at the time of booking confirmation; or
b. as retail, where your Travel Product will either be paid to the Provider directly at the time of booking or payable to the Provider on the date of travel.
31. Travel Products purchased in accordance with the 'retail' method, will not be bound by these terms and conditions and you are responsible for pursuing any claims of cancellation, re-scheduling, refunds or chargebacks directly with the merchant.
32. As the merchant we are governed by the terms and conditions of the Provider of the merchant facility.
33. A credit card or debit card fee may also be charged by certain Providers and low cost carriers. You will be notified of such charges prior to your purchase.
34. All charges, including the credit card fees, may be in another currency (e.g. EUR), which we will provide an estimate for in Australian dollars.
Refunds and Credits
35. If you cancel your Travel Product, your right to a refund or credit is subject to the terms and conditions of the Provider.
36. If the Provider is required to provide you with a refund or credit for the Travel Product, we will liaise with the Provider to arrange that refund. Where you are entitled to a refund, we are unable to provide you with this refund until we receive it from the Provider. Please note that most Providers take 60 – 90 days to process any refund.
37. Any refund or credit will be subject to these terms and conditions and will not include the Booking & Service Advisory fee, credit card fees or any commissions received. You may also be charged a cancellation fee by the Provider.
38. Where refunds for unused services are allowed, a service fee may be charged by the Provider against the value of the refund.
No Show
39. If you have a booking for a Travel Product (including flights and accommodation) but you do not show up to check-in or otherwise do not avail yourself of such Travel Product, you will not be entitled to any refund from us.
Cancellation and Amendments
40. If you amend or cancel your Travel Product, we reserve the right to charge the cancellation and amendment fees as per the Schedule of Professional Service Fees.
41. The Provider may charge cancellation and amendment fees in accordance with the terms and conditions agreed between you and the Provider. These will be in addition to the fees charged by us. We are not liable for any cancellation fees or refusals to refund made by the Provider.
42. Many Providers treat name changes and route and/or itinerary alterations as a full cancellation and these can incur full cancellation charges.
43. We will not charge a cancellation or amendment fee if you cancel or amend your booking due to a breach by us of our obligations to you or due to our fault.
Cancellations and Amendments for Online Low Cost Carrier Bookings Only
44. If your flight booking is with a low cost carrier, you can only cancel or change your booking by contacting the Provider directly.
Cancellations and amendments for hotel bookings only
Cancellations and Amendments for Hotel Bookings Only
45. Please review the cancellation policy for your hotel booking for any penalties that may apply.
Force Majeure
46. We will not be liable for any failure or delay in performing our obligations in booking the Travel Product that is due to events beyond our control.
47. If a force majeure event occurs that affects your booking, your entitlement to a refund, a credit or re-scheduled travel booking will depend on the Provider's terms and conditions.
48. If your booking is impacted by a force majeure event and you are entitled to a refund or credit from the Provider, we will facilitate this refund or credit.
49. The Booking & Service Advisory fee, credit card fees or any commissions received are non-refundable in the circumstance that a force majeure event occurs.
Low Cost Flights
50. If you book a low cost flight with us, we will make the booking on your behalf and your contract for your low cost flight will also be subject to the airline's booking terms and conditions.
51. It is your responsibility to ensure that all details of the booking are correct before proceeding. For any changes or cancellations, please contact the airline directly, quoting your reference.
Additional Airline Charges
52. Some Providers may also charge additional fees. Please check with the Provider for their full terms and conditions.
Hotel/Accommodation Bookings
53. Some Providers will require an additional charge to be paid locally (e.g. a resort fee) at the time of check in or check out. This amount is in addition to the amount shown during the booking process under the 'total booking cost' amount.
54. There may be taxes levied abroad but not paid at the point of purchase that are payable in relation to your hotel booking (e.g. local taxes, sales tax etc.). Any local taxes will be payable by you directly to the Provider at the time of check in/check out.
Changes in Price and Itineraries
55. We reserve the right to cancel your booking in the event we have reasonable grounds to believe it is fraudulent.
56. If a Provider changes any part of your booking for reasons beyond its control, we will use our reasonable endeavours to notify you. If any such changes result in your Travel Product costing more or otherwise being materially different, then you may cancel the Travel Product. Any refund would be subject to the Travel Provider terms and conditions.
57. These terms and conditions are subject to variation at any time. Any variation will be displayed here, and you will be deemed to have accepted a variation if you have made a booking after it has been displayed.
Your Obligations and Warranties
58. You warrant to us that:
a. you are at least 18 years old and have the power, capacity and authority to enter into a binding contract with us and with the Providers of the Travel Products that you acquire;
b. you have read and understood these terms and conditions and if booking on behalf of third parties, you have conveyed these terms and conditions to them;
c. the information you provide us about yourself is true, accurate, current and complete (apart from any optional items) as required by any registration process;
d. you have considered acquiring comprehensive travel insurance and we are not responsible for any failure by you to acquire adequate insurance cover; and
e. you will use the Booking & Advisory Services in accordance with these terms and conditions and you will not use the Booking & Advisory Services in any way to breach any laws or defame anyone.
Jurisdiction and Law
59. All matters arising out of or in connection with the Booking & Advisory Services and these terms and conditions are governed by the laws of Victoria, Australia. By acquiring the Booking & Advisory Services, you consent and submit to the exclusive jurisdiction of the laws of Victoria, Australia.
Definitions
" We" and "us" means Darebin Travel.
" You" or "your" means any user of our Website or any person who acquires the Booking & Advisory Services, including any person who acquires a Travel Product (whether or not the Booking & Advisory Services were acquired by another person).
" Booking & Advisory Services" means services provided by us to you in assisting you to acquire a Travel Product from a Provider and includes advisory and consulting services.
"Force Majeure” means, but not limited to: acts of God, accident, riot, war, terrorist act, epidemic, pandemic, quarantine, outbreaks of infectious disease or any other public health crisis, civil commotion, breakdown of communication facilities, natural catastrophes, adverse weather conditions, governmental acts or omissions, changes in laws or regulations, national strikes, fire, explosion and generalised lack of availability of raw materials or energy.
“ Travel Provider” or "Provider" or "Providers" means the company or person who provides you with the Travel Product on terms and conditions agreed with you.
" Travel Product" means the service or product provided by a Provider, for example, an airline or a hotel.
" Website" means our website https://deluxelife.com.au/
Schedule of Professional Service Fees
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Planning Fee |
$125 per itinerary. Creating unique travel itineraries is our specialty. For detailed quotations providing tailored recommendations for custom designed tours, a non-refundable planning fee applies. Should you proceed with booking, this fee is credited towards your trip.
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Service Fees |
$40 Domestic/Trans-Tasman airfare per person or as discounted
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$150.00 International airfare per person or as discounted
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$50.00 Domestic/Trans-Tasman business class airfare per person or as discounted
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$200.00 International business class airfare per person or as discounted |
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NIL Domestic/Trans-Tasman package, tour, or cruise per booking
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NIL International package, tour, or cruise per booking |
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$ Other Services dependent on service explained to you |
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$200 to $500 Itinerary planning per booking (credited towards reservation once booked) |
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Deposit & Balance |
For all bookings, the initial deposit is 20% and the balance of payment is due 60 days before departure. If Travel Provider terms and conditions vary, we may request an additional deposit from you, after the initial deposit is paid, plus the balance payment date may also vary. After you have paid your initial deposit, you will have five days cooling off period to accept these Booking & Advisory Terms and Conditions, during which time your deposit is refundable. After 5 days has passed, or you have accepted the Terms and Conditions, the deposit will automatically become non-refundable. Note, some Travel Products must be paid in full at time of booking. Service Fees must also be paid at time of booking and are non-refundable. After you pay the balance of payment this will become fully non-refundable 60 days before travel, or earlier, if specified by the supplier. |
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Amendment Fees |
Changes to Domestic/Trans-Tasman bookings will incur a fee of $50 per passenger per booking in addition to Provider and credit card fees.
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Changes to International bookings (excluding Trans-Tasman bookings) will incur a fee of $50 per passenger per booking in addition to Provider and credit card fees.
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Cancellation Fees |
Cancellations to Domestic/Trans-Tasman bookings will incur a fee of $75 per passenger per booking in addition to Provider and credit card fees.
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Cancellations to International bookings (excluding Trans-Tasman bookings) will incur a fee of $150 per passenger per booking in addition to Provider and credit card fees.
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Credit Card Fees |
Visa - an additional 2.0% applies
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Mastercard - an additional 2.0% applies
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American Express - an additional 2.0% applies
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(All fees exclude GST, where applicable).
Privacy Notice
Darebin Travel collects your personal information to enable us to respond to your queries and provide you with the Booking & Advisory Services, including assisting in arrangements with Providers (such as hotels and flights).
We will also use your personal information to personalise the service we provide you, including your experience on our, and other, websites, and to provide you with information about our, and our partners’, business, products and services. Your personal information may be shared between entities within Darebin Travel and with DeluxeLife Pty Ltd (ACN: 647 484 115), disclosed to suppliers, Providers, our cloud infrastructure, our contractors and to others where authorised or required by law. Some of these entities may be located overseas.
ANNEXURE – TRAVEL TIPS FOR TRAVEL PRODUCTS
These tips set out below are NOT legally binding terms and conditions.
Passports, Visas and Health Requirements
It is your responsibility to ensure that you have the required documents, including visas and passports, before travelling to a destination. For more information please log on to www.dfat.gov.au and www.smarttraveller.gov.au. Please check with the respective Embassy or Consulate of each country that you are travelling to, as many destinations require visas for both Australians and non-Australian passport holders. For more information, log on to www.visalink.com.au. You need to ensure that you have at least 6 months validity on your passport from the date of your departure return.
For International travellers booked on flights to the USA, including Hawaii, it is now mandatory, under the Visa Waiver Program to receive an electronic authorisation known as ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorisation) no less than 72 hours before travel to the USA. This can be obtained from the following website: https://esta.cbp.dhs.gov/esta/ .
For international travellers booked on flights to Canada, you either need a visitor visa or an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) to fly to, or transit through, a Canadian airport. An eTA can be obtained from the following website: https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/visit-canada/eta/apply.html
It is your responsibility to ensure that you are aware of any health requirements for your travel destinations. Vaccinations are strongly recommended for certain destinations. You need to contact your local doctor who will advise you of these requirements. Please note that vaccinations may be recommended before your travel departure date.
Travel Advice
We recommend that you contact the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) or visit their website at www.dfat.gov.au for general travel advice, as well as specific advice (including safety alert levels) relating to the destination you wish to visit.
Ticketing
For international and domestic departure, e-tickets will be issued upon payment and completion of the booking process. All other travel documentation, such as hotel booking confirmations, will be emailed to the email address you provided as an e-document. Should the Provider issue paper vouchers, these will be posted to the address you provided.
Baggage Allowance
Baggage allowance varies from airline to airline and in many cases the airfare you have paid may not include the cost to cover checked baggage. Please check with your Travel Advisor and/or the airline providing your flights for the allowances.
Frequent Flyers & Special Requests
For more information on whether your airfare is eligible for Frequent Flyer rewards, please contact the airline directly. When booking online, please ensure that you have entered your correct number. For bookings made by telephone via our Customer Service Team, please advise of your Frequent Flyer details and these will be added to your reservation. We do not take any responsibility should an airline not register your trip. You should retain copies of your air ticket and boarding pass.
Special requests will be passed on to the Providers but cannot be guaranteed.