Istanbul to Tashkent

Itinerary

Days 1-2 Istanbul

Discover the atmospheric backstreets, bargain up a storm in the Grand Bazaar or admire the imposing Aya Sofya in this fascinating city.

Days 2-6 Goreme

Explore the heart of Cappadocia where the cones of soft volcanic rock have been carved to create mystical churches and mysterious dwellings.

Days 7-8 Nemrut Dagi

Visit a bizarre mountain-top shrine which ancient carved heads of both man and beast look out over the stark landscape.

Day 9 Dogubayazit

Situated at the foot of Mt Ararat, Dogubayazit is home to the monumental Ishak Pasha Palace.

Days 10-11 Bush Camp

Travel into the mountainous heart of Iran, camp in the wilds, and perhaps visit the impressive Ali Sadr Caves.

Days 12-14 Esfahan

Surrounded by dry Iranian countryside, Esfahan is a sight for tired eyes. Cool, blue-tiled buildings and friendly local people are just two of the many highlights this beautiful city offers.

Days 15-16 Shiraz

Persepolis was once the ceremonial capital of the Persian empire. Explore the fascinating ruins and visit the local museum en route to Shiraz.

Days 17-19 Yazd

Known for its high quality silk handicrafts and delicious sweets, Yazd is a centre of Zoroastrian culture. Take time to discover the city's unique architecture and perhaps embark on an excursion into the desert.

Days 20-21 Tehran

Spend time in Iran's sprawling capital city - there is plenty to do here, from great restaurants and grand museums to graceful palaces and glittering jewel collections.

Days 22-23 Alborz Mountains

Stretching from the borders of Armenia to the Caspian Sea, the Alborz Mountains provide remarkable photo opportunities around every bend in the road.

Days 24-25 Ashgabat

Say goodbye to Iran and travel into Turkmenistan to discover the futuristic architecture of Ashgabat.

Days 26-27 Bush Camp

Follow a local trading route through the harsh Karakum Desert and camp beneath a vast stretch of glimmering stars.

Days 28-29 Khiva

See the ancient walls of Khiva, which once provided sanctuary for weary Silk Road travellers. Explore the perfectly preserved Old Town.

Days 30-32 Bukhara

Get to know Central Asia's holiest city, where the thoroughly lived-in Old Town offers a beguiling atmosphere.

Day 33 Yurt Stay

Spend a night in a yurt camp with the Kakaz and Uzbek nomads, sleeping among the dunes of the Red Desert.

Days 34-36 Samarkand

From the larger-than-life monuments to the city's rich history - Samarkand is one of Central Asia's most magical destinations.

Days 37-39 Tashkent

The Uzbek capital was once the fourth largest city in the former USSR and is still Central Asia's main hub. Check out a risque cabaret show or pick up some last-minute gifts in the local bazaar.