Central Asia Itinerary 2 Months: from 40-60 Days

A 60-day itinerary for exploring the five Central Asian countries, often referred to as the "Five Stans" (Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan), is a comprehensive adventure that allows you to delve deep into the rich history, diverse cultures, and stunning landscapes of the region. Please note that travel logistics, visa requirements, and road conditions may change, so always check for updates before embarking on such a journey.

Day 1: Arrival in Almaty, Kazakhstan, Arrive in Almaty, Kazakhstan's largest city. Explore the city's parks, museums, and local markets.

Days 2-4: Almaty and Charyn Canyon, Visit Panfilov Park and Zenkov Cathedral. Take a day trip to Charyn Canyon for hiking. Explore more of Almaty.

Days 5-7: Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan, Drive or take a shared taxi to Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan's capital. Explore the city's parks, markets, and Ala-Too Square. Visit the Historical Museum and Osh Bazaar.

Days 8-11: Issyk-Kul Lake and Karakol, Head to Issyk-Kul Lake, the world's second-largest alpine lake. Explore Karakol, visit the Dungan Mosque, and hike in the surrounding mountains. Enjoy leisure time by the lake's beaches.

Days 12-15: Song Kul Lake, Drive to Song Kul Lake, a high-altitude alpine lake. Stay in yurts, experience nomadic culture, and go horseback riding. Enjoy the pristine natural beauty of the area.

Days 16-18: Osh and Pamir Highway, Tajikistan, Drive to Osh, Kyrgyzstan's second-largest city. Cross the border into Tajikistan and start your Pamir Highway adventure. Stop at picturesque spots along the way, like Karakul Lake.

Days 19-24: Pamir Highway and Khorog, Continue along the Pamir Highway, passing through remote Tajik villages. Explore Khorog, the largest town in the Pamir region. Visit the local market and enjoy the mountain scenery.

Days 25-30: Dushanbe, Tajikistan, Drive to Dushanbe, Tajikistan's capital. Explore the city's museums, parks, and monuments. Take a day trip to Hissar Fortress and nearby sights.

Days 31-34: Termez, Uzbekistan, Cross into Uzbekistan and head to Termez. Explore the ancient archaeological sites and visit the Sultan Saodat Complex. Learn about the region's history.

Days 35-40: Bukhara, Travel to Bukhara, one of Uzbekistan's most historically significant cities. Explore the old town, visit mosques, madrasahs, and the Ark Fortress. Take in the ambiance of the Silk Road.

Days 41-46: Samarkand, Drive to Samarkand, another iconic Silk Road city. Visit Registan Square, Shah-i-Zinda, and other historical sites. Enjoy the vibrant bazaars and local cuisine. Days 47-53: Tashkent and Fergana Valley, Return to Tashkent, Uzbekistan's capital. Explore Tashkent's modern and historical attractions. Take a day trip to the Fergana Valley, visiting cities like Kokand and Margilan.

Days 54-60: Turkmenistan and Ashgabat, Cross into Turkmenistan and visit the ancient city of Merv. Explore Ashgabat, Turkmenistan's capital, known for its unique architecture. Explore local markets, monuments, and museums.