A ‘4-Stans’ Trip

This ‘4 Stans’ trip begins in Almaty, the largest city in Kazakhstan, situated at the foot of the Trans-Ili Alatau mountains. The city presents a blend of Soviet-era architecture, modern buildings, and green spaces. After a leisurely breakfast, the day includes exploring local parks, such as Panfilov Park, where the Zenkov Cathedral stands in vibrant contrast to the surrounding greenery. The evening ends with a stroll along Arbat Street, a bustling pedestrian area filled with cafés, art shops, and street musicians, offering a taste of Almaty’s lively atmosphere.

Today, embark on a stunning natural adventure just outside Almaty with a guided tour of the mountains. Your journey begins with a visit to Big Almaty Lake nestled in the mountains at an altitude of 2,510 metres. The turquoise waters of this glacial lake are surrounded by snow-capped peaks, creating a serene and breathtaking landscape. After soaking in the beauty of the lake, head towards Shymbulak, where a cable car will take you higher into the mountains for panoramic views of the surrounding alpine scenery.

Next, venture to the Charyn Canyon, often called the "Grand Canyon of Kazakhstan". Its dramatic rock formations and striking colours make it one of the country’s most impressive natural wonders. After exploring the canyon, continue your journey to Kolsai Lakes, a series of three picturesque lakes, each more stunning than the last, set against the backdrop of dense forests and towering mountain peaks.

The day is packed with awe-inspiring landscapes, leaving you feeling connected to Kazakhstan’s raw natural beauty. In the evening, return to Almaty and unwind with a delicious dinner, sampling local dishes such as beshbarmak (a hearty meat and pasta dish) and a refreshing glass of kompot (a sweet fruit drink).

Crossing the border to the next stop on this ‘4 Stans’ Trip into Kyrgyzstan leads to Bishkek, the capital city known for its leafy boulevards and Soviet-era architecture. Ala-Too Square, the heart of the city, and Osh Bazaar, a vibrant market bursting with colours and scents of spices, textiles, and local goods, are explored. A short drive to Ala Archa National Park offers a hike among alpine meadows and dramatic cliffs, breathing in the fresh mountain air. The day ends with a traditional Kyrgyz meal, perhaps featuring lamb or horse meat, followed by a relaxing evening.

Leaving Bishkek, the journey continues to the magnificent Issyk-Kul Lake, a saltwater lake surrounded by snow-capped peaks. The lake’s beaches provide an ideal setting to unwind, with the shimmering waters reflecting the mountains. The day is spent exploring the area, whether hiking in the nearby mountains or enjoying water sports. The evening offers relaxation in a resort town along the lake, with a stunning sunset over the tranquil waters.

After a morning by the lake, a flight to Tashkent, Uzbekistan’s capital, brings the next adventure on this ‘4 Stans trip’. Tashkent impresses with its wide avenues, Soviet-era monuments, and beautiful Islamic architecture. At Chorsu Bazaar, a vast array of spices, textiles, and fresh produce highlights the region’s vibrant trade history. The day ends with a meal of plov, the Uzbek national dish, featuring a fragrant blend of rice, meat, and vegetables.

A morning high-speed train journey leads to Samarkand, one of the most iconic cities of the ancient Silk Road. Take a city tour to enjoy highlights including Registan Square, a grand ensemble of madrasahs adorned with intricate tilework, the Shah-i-Zinda complex with its ornate tombs and mosaics, and the Bibi-Khanym Mosque. The day concludes with a visit to the Ulugh Beg Observatory to learn about the contributions of the Timurid astronomer. Dinner includes Samarkand’s famous bread, baked in clay ovens, alongside fresh fruits and nuts.

Continue your ‘4 Stans’ trip with a scenic drive from Samarkand to Bukhara, a city that feels like stepping back in time. The well-preserved historical centre includes the Ark Fortress, once the royal residence, and the Bolo Haouz Mosque with its intricate wooden columns. Wandering through the trading domes, now home to charming shops selling carpets, jewellery, and textiles, adds to the experience. The day ends with a quiet dinner at a local caravanserai, soaking in the city’s historic ambiance.

The journey continues to Khiva, a UNESCO World Heritage site often described as a living museum. Exploring the Ichan Kala, Khiva’s walled old town, reveals narrow streets, towering minarets, and landmarks such as the Juma Mosque, with its wooden columns, and the turquoise-tiled Kalta Minor Minaret. The afternoon is spent wandering through markets, and the day ends with a traditional Uzbek meal as the sun sets behind the city walls.

To reach the fourth and final country on this ‘4 Stans’ trip, take a flight to Dushanbe, the capital of Tajikistan, where you are introduced to a city framed by the majestic Pamir Mountains. The National Museum of Tajikistan showcases the region’s history, art, and culture. Rudaki Park, the Palace of Nations, and a hearty meal of shashlik (grilled meat) and halva complete the day.

The final day of this ‘4 Stans’ trip includes an excursion into the surrounding mountains, showcasing Tajikistan’s rugged beauty. A visit to the village of Gissar, with its historic fort and traditional bazaars, offers a glimpse into local life. Reflecting on the stunning landscapes and diverse cultures encountered over the past ten days, the journey concludes with memories of ancient cities, towering mountains, and warm hospitality that will linger long after departure.