Highlights of Central Asia: Kyrgyzstan's mountains & Uzbekistan's architecture

Today, you'll take a guided tour of Khiva's beautifully preserved Ichan-Kala fortress, visiting its madrasahs, mosques, and minarets. Later, you have the option of heading out into the desert to explore the ruins of the ancient Ayaz Kala citadels, which offer spectacular views over the surrounding plains.

You'll be driven across the Kyzylkum Desert to the holy city of Bukhara. The journey takes most of the day, but offers a fascinating glimpse of the arid landscape and the Amudarya River.

Enjoy a full-day guided walking tour of Bukhara. You'll visit the impressive Kalon Minaret, the Ark Citadel, and the historic trading domes, immersing yourself in the city's rich Silk Road heritage.

Take the high-speed train to Samarkand. After checking in, you'll head to the iconic Registan Square in the evening to see the magnificent madrasahs illuminated by a spectacular light show.

Explore Samarkand with your guide, visiting the Gur-e-Amir Mausoleum, the Bibi-Khanym Mosque, and the Shah-i-Zinda necropolis, featuring stunning blue tilework.

Take a day trip to Shakhrisabz, the birthplace of Amir Timur. You'll drive over the scenic Takhtakaracha Pass to explore the ruins of the Ak-Saray Palace and other historic Timurid sites before returning to Samarkand.

Board the high-speed train to the capital, Tashkent. Upon arrival, you'll be transferred to your hotel to settle in.

A tour of Tashkent offers an excellent overview of what Uzbekistan and Central Asia have to offer, as you take in mosques, bustling markets like Chorsu Bazaar, and the modern Independence Square.

Fly to Bishkek, the capital of Kyrgyzstan. In the afternoon, enjoy a guided tour of the city, visiting Ala-Too Square and the State History Museum to learn about the country's nomadic culture.

Drive east toward Bokonbayevo on the shores of Lake Issyk-Kul. En route, you'll stop to visit the ancient Burana Tower, one of the few remaining Silk Road watchtowers in the region. Tonight, you'll experience traditional nomadic life with a stay in a yurt camp.

Continue your journey to Karakol, stopping on the way to explore the surreal rock formations of Skazka (Fairytale) Canyon.

Enjoy a full-day excursion to the stunning Altyn Arashan valley. You'll travel by 4WD vehicle into the mountains to hike amidst the alpine scenery.

Drive across the border into Kazakhstan and on to Almaty. The journey takes you via the dramatic Charyn Canyon, often described as the "Grand Canyon of Central Asia," where you can walk among the striking red rock formations.

Explore the cosmopolitan city of Almaty with your guide. You'll visit Panfilov Park to see the wooden Zenkov Cathedral, explore the Green Bazaar, and take the cable car up to Kok Tobe for panoramic views of the city and mountains.

Transfer to the airport for your flight home. Your return flight will arrive the same day.