Our journey through Central Asia began in Kazakhstan, between the leafy boulevards and bustling markets of its former capital, Almaty, incidentally a perfect place to begin your own trip through the region.
After gorging on the smorgasbord of international cuisine on offer and spending a day or two exploring the mountains that encircle the city, head east toward the desert where you’ll find the gaping Charyn Canyon and the brilliant blue oasis of Kolsai Lakes and Lake Kaindy. If bright city lights are your thing, don’t miss the sparkling metropolis of Astana in the country’s north, otherwise, it’s time to hit the trails in Kyrgyzstan.
In a country that’s more than 90% mountain, prepare to be doing a lot of hiking. The popular 3-day trek to turquoise Alakol Lake and the rejuvenating hot springs at Altyn Arashan is a good place to start. For something truly off the beaten path, Jyrgalan makes an excellent jump-off point for an outdoor adventure, or stop by the ochre rockface of Jeti-Oguz and hike toward the Valley of Flowers and into the mountains.
No trip to Central Asia would be complete without an epic road trip along the Pamir Highway.
Tulparkul Lake nestled in the shadow of Peak Lenin is an ideal starting point, and we may as well let you in on a little secret, it’s one of the most spectacular places we’ve ever seen. For those seeking a challenge, or perhaps a serious adrenaline kick, volatile Lenin Peak should be on your agenda. For the rest, the lonely road through the Pamir mountains that whips past mirror-like lakes, jagged peaks and the verdant knot of the Wakhan Valley is sure to be the trip of a lifetime.
Mountains aside, the riches of the ancient silk road await in Uzbekistan. Immaculate blue mosaics, soaring minarets and rambling alleyways unite the main cities, though each reveals a unique character of their own. While Samarkand and Bukhara are the showy crown jewels, understated and often overlooked Khiva was our favourite of the lot.
But, with so much on offer, the real question is…
