silk road overland tour

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Silk Road holidays

Silk road tours & silk road holidays in 2023 & 2024.

A bygone trading route connecting the mysterious East with the captivated West, the Silk Road was not only a thoroughfare for precious silks and spices, but for the priceless gifts of art, architecture and ideas too. Silk Road holidays let modern day travellers experience some of the most eminent historical sites across Asia: ancient archaeology, teeming bazaars, intricate mosques and swathes of evocative desert.

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Our Silk Road holidays

Our top Silk Road holidays

The Silk Road small group tour

Central Asia overland tour, the stans

Silk Road & Caucasus tour

Silk Road highlights tour

Kazakhstan holiday, Steppe to the Silk Road

Silk Road tour, cities of the Silk Road

The five Stans of the Silk Road holiday

The five stans silk road holiday

Uzbekistan small group tour

About our silk road holidays, the history of the silk road, travel advice, small group silk road holidays.

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A Grand Central Asian Odyssey

The Great Game

Uzbekistan, China, Pakistan, Tajikistan

Call for Pricing

Call 1-800-368-2794 or contact us for any questions

Arrive: Kashgar, China

Depart: Samarkand, Uzbekistan

• Roam the famed Sunday Market in the Silk Road outpost of Kashgar
• Experience the breathtaking setting of the Hunza Valley
• Meet the Uighurs, Hunzakuts, Tajiks, Uzbeks and other Central Asian peoples
• Cross the spell-binding High Pamirs on the roof of Asia
• Enjoy one of the great overland journeys of the world

Dates & Pricing

Pricing below is per person and based on double occupancy. The earlier you book, the more choice you’ll have. WT also has the most generous cancellation and transfer policies in the industry, we make it easy if you change your mind. Have a small group of your own? Take over an existing date or choose your own. You’ll have your own private guide–and the adventure–all to yourselves!

Payment & Cancel Schedule

$600 due at time of reservation 90 days prior to departure: Balance

Cancellation & Transfer Schedule

Up to 151 days prior to departure: No charge! 91-150 days prior to departure: $600 per person 90 days or less: 100% of trip cost

*Please note that this differs from our standard policy.

• Expert leadership of a Wilderness Travel Trip Leader and local guides
• Accommodations in best available hotels, guesthouses, and alpine tented camp
• All ground transportation and baggage handling from meeting until departure
• All activities as indicated in Detailed Itinerary

Not Included

• Travel to and from the arrival and departure location as indicated in Detailed Itinerary
• Additional hotel nights outside the trip's scheduled dates
• Optional gratuities to Trip Leaders or staff
• Optional travel insurance
• Other expenses of a personal nature (some alcoholic beverages, laundry, etc.)

Trip Leaders

Roger Williams

What the Trip is Like

We'll be staying in the best available city hotels, with some nights in more basic guesthouses/homestays. Single rooms can be requested, but are not guaranteed at certain properties. Wilderness Travel will do its best to secure single rooms for those who pay the single supplement, but even if this is confirmed in advance, arrangements may change while on the trip.

Meals All breakfasts, lunches, and dinners are included. Full breakfasts are included at hotels. When we feel it is best, we try to arrange other meals at local restaurants instead of using set meals in the hotels. Bottled water is provided throughout the trip. Village food tends to simpler and oilier than city food, but it is also an excellent chance to sample the food in rural areas.

Ground transportation is by small bus, minivan, and/or jeep. We have taken local travel times into account in planning the itinerary, though road conditions can change from week to week. While traveling in rural areas, there are few decent public bathroom facilities. We recommend that rather than using local facilities on drives, you do what the locals do and opt for a "nature break" when on road journeys.

Client Testimonials

"Each day was a new adventure. We felt as though we were totally in another world, especially in the mountain communities of Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan."

Versailles, KY

"A difficult but wonderful trip. It met with and exceeded all my expectations and fulfilled a lifelong wish to see this part of the world!"

"This was a real expedition! For me, a dream come true."

Albuquerque, NM

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Book your trip today

Our Area Specialists know every detail about our tours. They will be happy to answer any questions and help you choose the journey that’s right for you. Contact us to learn more or book your trip today!

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Trip Levels

With more than 200 different adventures to choose from, we want to help you find the trip that’s right for you. Our Trip Level system ranks each trip in two ways: a number rating from 1 to 6 according to the activity, and general travel rigors. 1 is the easiest and 6+ the most difficult—see descriptions below for explanations of each number. A plus (+) sign means the trip is a bit more strenuous than other trips of that level. The detailed explanation of each trip—below the bar with the number rating—is perhaps more important, specifying activities, altitudes, hiking, and travel conditions. The Detailed Itinerary, available by download or mail, gives further information. Our Area Managers can also answer questions and guide you to the trip that best suits your interests.

Level 1 – Easiest

Non-camping journeys, optional walks, little elevation gain or loss.

• Royal Rajasthan and Villages of India
• Small ship cruises

Level 2 – Easy to Moderate

Hotel nights and/or safari-style camping, hikes of two to four hours on some days. Other physical activities are sometimes included, such as optional sea kayaking.

• Our African safaris
• Costa Rica Wildlife

Level 3 – Moderate

Half- to full-day hikes (3-6 hours) over rolling countryside on most days, occasional steep trails. Many of our hotel-based walking tours are in this category, as are our snorkeling adventures.

• Tuscany & the Cinque Terre
• Argentina: Hikes and Estancias of Patagonia
• Palau Snorkeling & Sea Kayaking
• Some trips with minimal hiking but rugged travel conditions or long drives, such as  Tribal Ghana, Togo & Benin,  are Trip Level 3.

Level 4 – Moderate to Strenuous

Full-day hikes (4-6 hours), mountainous terrain, significant elevation gains and losses (hiking up or down as much as 3,000 feet) on many days. Altitudes no greater than about 10,000 feet.

• Ultimate Patagonia
• Hiking the Spanish Pyrenees

Level 5 – Strenuous

Full-day hikes (4-8 hours), mountainous, steep terrain (hiking up or down as much as 3,500 feet) on many days. Trips with hiking at average altitudes of 10,000 to 12,000 feet are in this category.

• Inca Trail to Machu Picchu
• Everest Lodge to Lodge

Level 6 – Very Strenuous

Full-day hikes (5-8 hours), mountainous, steep terrain (hiking up or down as much as 3,500 feet) on many days. Most hikes take place at altitudes above 10,000 feet, with some days ascending as high as 18,000 feet.

• Everest Base Camp
• Climb Kilimanjaro!

Silk Road & Central Asia

Turkmenistan, featured journeys, silk road adventure, five golden stans, tamerlane's empire.

Silk Road Overland Tours

The Silk Road is stuff of legend, an ancient overland route that connected the east with the west with its main trading commodity of silk. Although back then there were many trade routes today we generally regard the main routes being from Istanbul to Beijing Overland and Beijing to Cairo Overland. Madventure offers both of these routes as budget Silk Road overland tours as well as a range of shorter tours that are part of the silk route trips. We may not trade silk along these routes today but the incredible trading post cities & sites remain amongst some spectacular landscapes offering us a fantastic glance into the past!

Below are some of our most popular overland tours that travel along the Silk Road using our custom-built expedition trucks.

Istanbul to Beijing Silk Road Overland Tour 

A 3 month overland expedition that covers 10 countries including Turkey, Georgia, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, Kyrgyzstan, Kazakhstan & China. https://madventure.co.uk/silk- road-overland-adventure-tour/

Beijing to Cairo Silk Route Overland Tour

A 27 week overland tour that visits 15 countries including China, Tibet, Nepal, Bhutan, Bangladesh, India, Pakistan, Iran, United Arab Emirates, Oman, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Kuwait, Jordan & Egypt. https://madventure.co.uk/ beijing-to-cairo-overland/

5 Stans Central Asia Overland Tour

A 36 day overland trip visiting the ‘5 Stans’ including Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, Kyrgyzstan & Kazakhstan. https://madventure.co.uk/ central-asia-budget-adventure- tour-2/

Caucasus & 5 Stans Overland Tour

An 8 week overland trip that visits 8 countries including Georgia, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, Kyrgyzstan and Kazakhstan. https://madventure.co.uk/ caucasus-5-stans-overland- tour/

Pakistan Karakoram Highway Overland Tour

This 19 day overland tour visits the most beautiful part of Pakistan, the Karakoram Highway, where we travel amongst the world’s largest concentration of soaring peaks and long glaciers! Along the way you will have the opportunity to go trekking, visit remote forts and explore friendly villages dotted amidst a landscape of snow-capped mountains, raging rivers and deep ravines. https://madventure.co.uk/ pakistan-karakoram-highway- overland-tour/

China, Tibet & Nepal Overland Tour

This 27 day budget overland tour visits highlights and natural wonders of China, Tibet & Nepal including the Great Wall, Terracotta Warriors, Giant Pandas, Lhasa & Mt Everest! https://madventure.co.uk/ china-tibet-nepal-overland/

Istanbul to Kathmandu Overland Tour (via Tibet)

You will visit 11 countries on this 4 month madventure including Turkey, Georgia, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, Kyrgyzstan, Kazakhstan, China, Tibet & Nepal. https://madventure.co.uk/ istanbul-to-kathmandu- overland-via-tibet-2020/

 Beijing to Islamabad Silk Road Overland Tour

A 14 week affordable overland tour that visits 7 countries including China, Tibet, Nepal, Bhutan, Bangladesh, India & Pakistan. https://madventure.co.uk/ beijing-to-islamabad-overland/

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For more on our travel offers, click these links to the many services we offer – North and Central America Budget Group Overland Adventure Tours  –  North & Central America Adventure Tours  –  North & Central America Budget Tours  –  North & Central America Group Tours  –  North & Central America Overland Tours  –  South America Adventure Tour  –  South America Budget Overland Group Adventure Tour  –  South America Budget Tour  –  South America Group Tour  –  South America Overland Tour – African Adventure Tours  –  Africa Budget Tours  –  Africa Group Tours –  Africa Overland Budget Group Adventure Tours –  Africa Overland Tours –  5 Stans Budget Overland Group Adventure Tours  – 5 Stans Adventure Tour –  5 Stans Budget Tour –  5 Stans Group Tour  – 5 Stans Overland Tour-  Adventure Tours – Central Asia Overland Tours  –  Central Asia Adventure Tours –  Central Asia Budget Overland Group Adventure Tours –  Central Asia Budget Tours  – Central Asia Group Tours – Iceland Overland Budget Group Adventure  –  Iceland Adventure Tour  –  Iceland Budget Tour  –  Iceland Group Tour  –  Iceland Overland Tour  –  India, Nepal, Bhutan, Bangladesh & Pakistan Budget Group Overland Adventure Tours  –  Middle East Budget Overland Group Adventure Tours – Silk Road Budget Tours  –  Silk Road Adventure Tours  –  Silk Road Budget Overland Group Adventure Tours  –  Silk Road Group Tours –  Silk Road Overland Tours  –  Gap Year Tours – Overland Tours   –   Saudi Arabia Adventure Tours –  Saudi Arabia Budget Overland Group Adventure Tours –  Saudi Arabia Budget Tours –  Saudi Arabia Group Tours –  Saudi Arabia Overland Tours –  American Budget Overland Adventure Tours – Africa Budget Overland Adventure Tours – 5 Stans & Central Asia Budget Tours – Silk Road Overland Tours – Central Asia Overland Tours – Silk Road Group Tours – Central Asia Group Tours – Iceland Overland Budget Tour – Silk Road Budget Tours – Central Asia Budget Tours – Gap Year Adventure Tours – Budget Overland Adventure Tours – Overland Tours – About Adventure Travel – Adventure Tours

Madventure Ltd. 10 Ablett Close Oxford, OX4 1XH United Kingdom

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WHATSAPP +44 7712 225 438

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IPP FINANCIAL PROTECTION

Copyright Madventure 2023 / UK company no. 6809461 / VAT no. 947398564 | All Rights Reserved | ABTA | FINANCIAL PROTECTION | TERMS & CONDITIONS |

• LONDON TO SYDNEY
• LONDON TO TOKYO
• BEIJING TO CAIRO
• AFRICA ENCOMPASSED
• ALASKA TO BRAZIL
• ISTANBUL TO KATHMANDU
• ISTANBUL TO BEIJING
• CENTRAL ASIA 5 STANS
• CAUCASUS & 5 STANS
• CHINA, TIBET & NEPAL
• KATHMANDU TO KOLKATA
• KATHMANDU TO ISLAMABAD
• KATHMANDU TO CAIRO
• PAKISTAN KKH
• BEIJING TO ISLAMABAD
• NAIROBI TO CAPE TOWN
• MOROCCO TO CAPE TOWN
• MOROCCO TO GHANA
• GHANA TO CAPE TOWN
• CAPE TOWN TO CAIRO
• CAPE TOWN TO NAIROBI
• KENYA TO CAIRO
• HORN OF AFRICA
• GAMEPARKS & GORILLAS
• CAPE TOWN TO KRUGER PARK
• SOUTHERN AFRICA EXPLORER
• ALASKA TO USHUAIA
• ALASKA TO PANAMA
• MEXICO TO PANAMA
• CARTAGENA TO RIO DE JANEIRO
• CARTAGENA TO USHUAIA
• CARTAGENA TO SANTIAGO
• SANTIAGO TO RIO DE JANEIRO
• RIO TO MANAUS VIA GUIANAS
• RIO TO RIO VIA GUIANAS
• NORTH KOREA GROUP TOUR
• NORTH & SOUTH KOREA TOUR
• N & S KOREA & JAPAN TOUR
• SOUTH KOREA & JAPAN TOUR
• SOUTH KOREA GROUP TOUR
• JAPAN GROUP TOUR
• CHINA, TIBET & NEPAL TOUR
• KAMCHATKA GROUP TOUR
• ARABIA OVERLAND
• SAUDI ARABIA 11 DAY TOUR
• SAUDI ARABIA 15 DAY TOUR
• 24 March 2024 – 22 September 2024
• 24 March 2024 – 14 August 2024
• 7 July 2024 – 12 January 2025
• 03 November 2024 – 25 September 2025
• 10 June 2025 – 13 February 2026.
• 7 April 2024 – 3 August 2024
• 7 April 2024 – 7 July 2024
• 9 May 2024 – 13 June 2024
• 19 April 2024 – 13 June 2024
• 7 July 2024 – 3 August 2024
• 5 August 2024 – 12 September 2024
• 5 August 2024 – 17 October 2024
• 5 August 2024 – 12 January 2025
• 28 September 2024 – 17 October 2024
• 7 July 2024 – 17 October 2024
• 14 January 2024 – 28 March 2024
• 07 March 2024- 20 May 2024
• 06 May 2024 – 19 July 2024
• 17 June 2024 – 30 Aug 2024
• 27 July 2024 – 09 October 2024
• 16 September 2024- 29 November 2024
• 08 November 2024 – 21 January 2025
• 03 November 2024 – 02 April 2025
• 29 October 2023 – 12 January 2024
• 12 January 2024 – 27 March 2024
• 31 March 2024 – 19 September 2024
• 31 March 2024 – 9 July 2024
• 10 July 2024 – 19 September 2024.
• 24 July 2024 – 1 September 2024
• 11 June 2024 – 9 July 2024
• 31 March 2024 – 21 April 2024
• 13 March 2024 – 21 May 2024
• 10 June 2025 – 13 February 2026
• 10 June 2025 – 11 January 2026
• 10 June 2025 – 29 September 2025
• 4 August 2025 – 29 September 2025
• 14 May 2024 – 20 September 2024
• 21 October 2024 – 28 February 2025
• 16 June 2024 – 20 September 2024
• 21 October 2024 – 26 January 2025
• 11 July 2024 – 20 September 2024
• 21 October 2024 – 2 January 2025
• 14 December 2023 – 9 February 2024
• 14 May 2024 – 10 July 2024
• 5 January 2024 – 1 March 2024
• 13 February 2024 – 12 April 2024
• 13 February 2024 – 12 May 2024
• 9 July 2024 – 18 July 2024
• 9 July 2024 – 29 July 2024
• 9 July 2024 – 14 August 2024
• 19 July 2024 – 14 August 2024
• 19 July 2024 – 29 July 2024
• 29 July 2024 – 14 August 2024
• 12 November 2024 – 06 January 2025
• 16 December – 26 December 2023
• 24 February – 5 March 2024
• 09 November – 19 November 2024
• 16 December – 30 December 2023
• 24 February – 9 March 2024
• 09 November – 23 November 2024
• 7 August 2023 – 14 January 2024
• 27 July 2024 – 12 August 2024
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Destinations

Silk road adventure.

• In-depth Cultural
• Fully Guided

Places You’ll See

• Traverse the least travelled routes of the Silk Road
• Cross the high passes of the Tien Shan Mountains
• Spend time beside the azure waters of Lake Issyk Kul
• Introduction
• Day 1 Tashkent
• Day 2 To Fergana Valley
• Day 3 Fergana Valley and to Osh
• Day 4 To Bishkek and Chon Kemin
• Day 5 To Karakara
• Day 6 To Karakol
• Day 7 To Bokonbaevo
• Day 8 To Naryn
• Day 9 Day excursion to Tash Rabat
• Day 10 Naryn to Bishkek
• Day 11 Ala Archa Canyon and to Almaty
• Day 12 To Tashkent
• Day 13 To Samarkand
• Day 14 Samarkand
• Day 15 To Bukhara via Shakhrisabz
• Day 16 Bukhara
• Day 17 Bukhara
• Day 18 Khiva
• Day 19 Khiva
• Day 20 Khiva and to Tashkent
• Day 21 Tashkent
• Day 22 Tashkent
• Journey Summary

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Download this tour’s PDF brochure and start tour planning offline

What's Included

• Accommodation
• Additional Services

Where You'll Stay

Operated by sundowners overland.

Enjoy a liberating travel experience from the leading Trans Siberian and Silk Road specialists. Sundowners Overland has been crafting pioneering adventures across Asia since 1964, providing unrivalled expertise and a comprehensive selection of moving journeys. Whether you want action-packed adventure, in-depth discovery, something leisurely or world-class luxury, you’ll find an enticing range of small group tours and custom journeys. Discover the romance of the rails as you explore Russia, Mongolia and China on the renowned Trans Siberian Railway. Follow ancient trails of trade and conquest across Central Asia on the Silk Road. And receive a warm welcome as you encounter the mountains and monasteries of Europe’s Caucasus.  Groups are kept small to ensure an intimate experience; with sightseeing included, you’ll forge lasting friendships as you unlock the wonders of the world together. Each journey is designed to maximise interactions with local people, enriching your understanding of cultures and customs afar.  Travellers have been enjoying Sundowners Overland journeys for over 50 years. If you want off-the-beaten-track destinations and masterfully crafted itineraries, then look no further. There’s a network of travel specialists on the ground and in your time zone, waiting to turn your travel dreams into unforgettable memories. 

Customer Reviews

• Overall Rating Excellent 4.2
• Guide Bad 1.0
• Transport Good 4.0
• Accommodation Good 4.0
• Food Average 3.0
• Tour Operator Sundowners Overland 4.3

• LH Lesley · 29th June 2015 It is interesting to read Gwen’s review. We could say the same about our recent Sundowners Fully Escorted Silk Road Adventure. Just 7 days before our tour was to begin in Tashkent we were advised that we would not have a Tour Leader accompanying us. The... Show more Trip date: May 2015
• A Anonymous · 7th June 2015 As you have heard it was a fantastic trip with lots of ‘wow’ moments and there were no times that we felt unsafe, although the heavy police presence in Kashgar is a bit intimidating. Accommodation • Novotel Airport Hotel, Bangkok – Excellent for an... Show more Trip date: June 2015 Review collected by Sundowners Overland

Dates & Availability

Pay-by-instalments

Take advantage of our 0% interest instalment plan on selected departures. Learn More

• Upcoming departures
• August 2024
• September 2024
• Monday 6 May, 2024 Monday 27 May, 2024 English €5,870 0% Interest Instalments Confirm Dates
• Monday 27 May, 2024 Monday 17 Jun, 2024 English Filling Fast €5,870 0% Interest Instalments Confirm Dates
• Monday 10 Jun, 2024 Monday 1 Jul, 2024 English €5,870 0% Interest Instalments Confirm Dates
• Monday 19 Aug, 2024 Monday 9 Sep, 2024 English Filling Fast €5,880 0% Interest Instalments Confirm Dates
• Monday 9 Sep, 2024 Monday 30 Sep, 2024 English Filling Fast €5,870 0% Interest Instalments Confirm Dates

Frequently Asked Questions

Visa requirements are always changing so it is best to contact your local embassy or consulate for the most up-to-date information.

Travel insurance is highly recommended. TourRadar has partnered with World Nomads to ensure you are adequately covered whilst travelling. For more information please contact our Travel Experts.

A guide will accompany you on the tour.

Selected meals are included as per the itinerary.

Transport is included on this tour.

Got a question about this tour?

Reach out to our travel experts.

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Silk Road Tours

Follow in the footsteps of merchants on the Great Silk Road as they travelled from China to Europe across mountain passes and vast steppes. Experience the highlights of China (Xinjiang), Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, Azerbaijan, Georgia, and Armenia as you travel from east to west as you explore ancient trades that are still practiced today. Just as they did centuries ago, master-craftsmen still produce feather-light silk, bazaars still smell of spices, and chefs still cook the tastiest of foods.

Some of our Silk Road tours start in the Chinese cities of Urumqi or Kashgar, where caravans would stop as they crossed the Taklamakan Desert. Then they cross into Kyrgyzstan over the Torugart Pass, to arrive in Osh, a city built around its 2,000-year-old bazaar. Alternatively, start from the steppes of Kazakhstan, and then stop by the mountains of Kyrgyzstan on the way to Uzbekistan’s grand cities. Samarkand, Bukhara, and Khiva have long been the stuff of legend, but even today these cities live up to all expectations. Though many merchants just passed through them while travelling along the Silk Road, these cities (plus Merv and Kunya-Urgench in Turkmenistan) were centres of education and scholarly work, which can still be seen at the elaborate and intricate madrassahs and mosques. On the other side of the Caspian Sea is the Caucasus, the gateway to Europe. Visit the ancient cities of Baku and Ganja in Azerbaijan, before continuing to Georgia and Armenia, the two oldest Christian countries in the world. The Silk Road crossed Svaneti in Georgia and led to the Caspian Sea via ancient cities like Poti, which was once a bustling market town and port. See the rough stone caravanserais in Azerbaijan and Kyrgyzstan, monumental architecture in Uzbekistan’s ancient Silk Road cities, sandswept ruins in Turkmenistan, and the sunny vineyards of Georgia.

Based on our many years of experience in the region, working with local tour operators, restaurants, and, of course, our favourite places, we’ve developed a range of fascinating, well-organised Silk Road tours and holiday packages. Our small group tours are the best way to make the most of a short amount of time, share costs, and meet travellers who are just as excited as you are. Our private tours and tailor-made travel packages allow you to do exactly what you want, when. Join us on the journey of a lifetime along the Great Silk Road!

Silk Road Small Group Escorted Tours 2023-2024

We offer guided tours in small groups that start from Kazakhstan or Uzbekistan and end in Armenia, visiting the other Silk Road countries of Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, Azerbaijan, and Georgia on the way. You can customize a group tour by joining at any point, while still sharing costs and experiences with other enthusiastic travellers that have similar interests to you.

Silk Road Group Tour 2024

Tour the best of the Silk Road and visit the best of eight countries as you cross thousands of kilometers, magnificent landscapes, and dozens of cities. The most comprehensive and best Silk Road tour we offer.

Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, Azerbaijan, Georgia, Armenia

Details 29 Days | Spring, summer, autumn from US$ 7,030 / person

Uzbekistan and Georgia Small Group Tour 2024

Discover the enchanting allure of Central Asia and the Caucasus with the 14-day Uzbekistan and Georgia Small Group Tour. This tour is not just a trip; it's an unforgettable tapestry of culture, history, and natural beauty.

Uzbekistan, Georgia

Details 14 Days | All year round US$ 2,065 / person

Private Silk Road Tours

Explore the winding route of the Silk Road through Central Asia and the Caucasus at your own pace. Combine your private trip with a small group tour, or completely customize a travel package to suit your individual needs and interests.

From China to Black Sea

Create your best Silk Road tour or just book ours! Travel through nine countries and experience the best this unique region has to offer, from untouched nature to marvels of architecture.

China, Kyrgyzstan, Kazakhstan, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, Turkmenistan, Azerbaijan, Georgia, Armenia

Details 35 Days | June – Mid of September from US$ 8,144 / person

Capitals of Silk Road

If you are inveterate traveler, longing for new inimitable discoveries, then this tour is truly for you. In 19 days you will cross 8 capitals and many other tourist destinations, see hundreds of magnificent landscapes and unique sights, discover new cultures and new people.

Kyrgyzstan, Kazakhstan, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, Turkmenistan, Azerbaijan, Georgia, Armenia

Details 20 Days | Spring, summer, autumn from US$ 4,750 / person

Tour Extensions

Extend your Central Asia tour to get a more in-depth experience of the mysterious East. Ask about our tour extensions and holiday packages!

Astana Pre-tour

Discover the glittering modern capital of Kazakhstan, Astana, with its skyscrapers, grandiose designs, and wide boulevards. A trip to the top of the famous Bayterek Monument will provide travelers with the best views of the city.

Astana (Kazakhstan)

Details 2 Days | Spring, summer, autumn from US$ 370 / person

Charyn Canyon Pre-tour

Before your Central Asia or Silk Road tour, why not take the opportunity to explore the enigmatic and elusive land of Kazakhstan more deeply? A journey to take in the spectacular natural surroundings of Charyn Canyon will allow travelers to see the rugged beauty of this country.

Charyn canyon (Kazakhstan)

Details 2 Days | Spring, summer, autumn from US$ 240 / person

Ashgabat To Tbilisi (24 Days) Iran Caravan

Group size:

Physical rating:.

All Ages / Not applicable

Tour operated in:

This tour is no longer available, please see similar tours below or send an enquiry, tour overview.

Uncover the mysteries of the Silk Road on this overland expedition from Tbilisi in the former Soviet Republic of Georgia before travelling south into Armenia and Azerbaijan before crossing the Caspian Sea. Explore bustling and cosmopolitan cities, haggle in chaotic bazaars, camp under the stars in the desert and discover the rich and vibrant history along the way. End your adventure in Turkmenistan, one of the world's most secretive and rarely visited destinations.

Discover the ancient wine-growing region of Telavi

Visit Savanavank monastery on the shores of Lake Sevan

Enjoy the capital of Armenia, Yerevan with its cafes, museums and world-famous brandy

Ride on the Wings of Tatev Cable car

Visit the bubbling and sometimes explosive mud volcanoes found in Azerbaijan

Take a journey across the Caspian Sea

Experience the desert proper on a 4X4 safari in Turkmenistan

A guided tour through the marble city of Ashgabat

What's Included

• Accommodation - approx. 50% camping & 50% in hostels/hotels
• Caspian Ferry
• Turkmenistan Letter of Invitation support and fees
• 4X4 Desert Safari in Turkmenistan
• Departure airport transfer in Ashgabat

What's Not Included

• Local Payment (see tour notes & options)
• Optional Excursions as listed in the Pre-Departure Information
• Airport Taxes & Transfers
• Travel Insurance
• Meals - approx. 50%

Check out our Q&As

Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work.

Yes, if you are travelling solo. On our Overland Adventures and Ultimate Expeditions, we will pair you up with a tent buddy of the same sex when we camp and the same goes for twin & shared rooms in hostels, so there is no need to go it alone! If you specifically would like to request your own single room whilst on the trip, this may be requested subject to availability and additional fee.

How many people do you take on your Trips?

On most of our Overland Adventures and Ultimate Expeditions our vehicles can carry a maximum of 24 travellers, the average however is around 16-20 on any one trip. Our Small Group Adventures have a maximum of 18 people per Tour Leader, although again the average is around 10-14 people.

Dates & Availability

Monday - Wednesday

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Oasis Overland requires a minimum deposit of 25% or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 70 days before departure.

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Up to 70 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

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Discover the Beauty of the Silk Road with Our Overland Trip

Are you looking for a unique and adventurous way to explore the Silk Road? Look no further than Minzifa Travel’s Silk Road Overland Trip. Our overland trip offers a chance to immerse yourself in the beauty and history of this iconic trade route.

What is a Silk Road Overland Trip?

A Silk Road overland trip is a journey that takes you through some of the most breathtaking landscapes and historic sites of the ancient Silk Road trade route. Unlike traditional tours that rely on air or train travel, an overland trip allows you to experience the journey in a more immersive and authentic way. You’ll travel by land, crossing borders and taking in all the sights and sounds along the way.

Benefits of an Overland Trip on the Silk Road

Embarking on an overland trip on the Silk Road offers many benefits. First, it allows you to experience the journey in a more intimate way, getting up close and personal with the stunning scenery and fascinating cultures of the region. You’ll also have the opportunity to interact with locals and learn about their daily lives and customs.

Additionally, an overland trip provides flexibility and the ability to customize your journey. With Minzifa Travel, we offer a range of itineraries and options, allowing you to tailor your trip to your interests and preferences. You can choose to focus on specific cities or regions along the route, or take a comprehensive journey across multiple countries.

Explore the Silk Road with Minzifa Travel’s Overland Trip

At Minzifa Travel, we offer a variety of overland trip options along the Silk Road. Our expert guides will take you through the most scenic and historically significant routes, sharing their knowledge and insights along the way. You’ll visit the major cities of the Silk Road, such as Samarkand, Bukhara, and Khiva, as well as lesser-known destinations that offer a unique and authentic experience.

Our overland trip itineraries range from 8 to 22 days and include accommodation, transportation, meals, and activities. We also offer the option to customize your trip to fit your specific interests and preferences.

Embark on a journey of a lifetime with Minzifa Travel’s Silk Road Overland Trip. Discover the rich history, culture, and stunning landscapes of the Silk Road on this unforgettable adventure. Contact us today to start planning your trip.

12 days Silk Road desert highway adventure

This Silk Road discovery tour balances an overland trip from Urumqi to Kashgar and sightseeing in the splendid Karakul Lake. Endless scenery await to be discovered as you travel across the vast deserts in Xinjiang. Stop in the Taklamkan Desert to have a memorable camping experience and enjoy the sunset and sunrise. Added with a cultural visit in Turpan, where you will see many relics along the Silk Road. All together, learning about the history of this famous ancient trading route that still vibrant today.

Urumqi, the capital of Xinjiang province, is the entrance point of this memorable Silk Road adventure. Once you arrive at the airport or train station, your local guide will meet and assist you to the downtown hotel. The rest of today is left free, have a rest or roam the local streets nearby on your own. Urumqi is a great city to explore the customs of Uyghur people and experience their local life.

Notice the clock time in Urumqi of Xinjiang is the same as Beijing Time, but there is 2 hours difference because of the longitude. You should adjust your rest and dinning time 2 hours later as compared with that in mainland China.

Start your trip by visiting the Xinjiang Museum in this morning. Considered as a research and collection center for relics in Xinjiang, this museum provides a great opportunity to learn about the past civilizations along the ancient Silk Road as well as the culture and history of Uyghur people. After, say farewell to Urumqi as you will drive to Turpan, an oasis city located in the southeast. The drive takes over 3 hours, and you will witness the largest wind power station in China along the highway. 

As you arrive in Turpan, visit the Karez Well , an ancient irrigation system with a long history of 2,000 years. These wells are made up of vertical wells, underground canals, above-ground canals and small reservoirs. During your stay in the underground canals, you will find this place is also a perfect escape from the intense heat of Turpan. Next with a visit to the Jiaohe Ruins , which is currently the largest and oldest earth city in the world. The remains you see today was descended from the Tang Dynasty. Most of them are well preserved due to the high location and dry climate. At last but not least, head to the Sugong Pagoda for a visit. It is one of the most famous Muslim pagodas in China because of its unique appearance. 

After breakfast, drive to the Gaochang Ruins , an ancient city used to the one of the most important stops along Silk Road. Pursue the past glory of ancient Goachang people by wandering around this city. Next, head to the Astana Tombs, a serious of underground graves situated on the Gobi desert in north of Gaochang Ruins. Here you will see two well preserved mummies and many precious historical relics discovered. 

During the lunch time, enjoy a traditonal Uyghur lunch in a local village of Tuyuk Valley. Then visit the Bezeklik Thousand Buddha Caves and learn about the Buddhism culture in this region. These grottos are located on the west cliffs of the Wood Valley of the Flaming Mountains. They were decorated by numerous murals and other art works created by the people from different cultures, depicting their daily life and religion. Afterwards, enjoy a majestic scenery of the barren, eroded, red sandstone hills in Flaming Mountains, then drive back to your hotel for retire.

A long journey on the vehicle today as you will drive from Turpan to Kuqu this morning. However, it provides a chance to enjoy the breathtaking scenery while crossing the Tianshan Mountain range. Arrive in Kuqa this late afternoon or evening, and your local guide will directly assist you to the hotel for rest. 

Spend the whole day to visit several highlights in Kuqa city. The first one is the Kizil Thousand Caves , which is regarded as the earliest Buddhist art treasure trove in China. It holds a significant position in Buddhism and in the history of Kuqa because of its corridor of murals. Afterwards, drive to the Kizilgaha Beacon Tower, built almost 2,000 years ago as the alarm tower for the frontier guards. The tower is in rectangular shape, and on the top you will see a watch cabin which remains of wooden fence.

In the afternoon, drive back to Kuqa city to visit the Grand Mosque , the second largest mosque in Xinjiang. The highlight of the mosque is the Great Praying Hall, which can accommodate 1,000 prayers. It is supported by 88 pillars that embellished with carved designs and in many colors. Next, roam the old town of Kuqa and experience the lifestyles of the locals before you drive to the Subash Ancient City. Unlike the other two ancient cities you visit in Turpan, Subash is the site of a Buddhist temple built more than 1,000 years ago.

Leave for Hotan this morning. You will drive along the new highway G217 and enjoy the unique scenery of the deserts in Xinjiang. The drive takes a long time, and you will get to Hotan this evening. Upon arrival, get settled into the hotel and prepare for the next day.

Explore the traditional paper making technology in Hotan this morning. According to the history record, this handicraft was practiced more than 100 years earlier than Ceylon's invention of modern paper. The raw materials for this paper consists of the bark of mulberry tree branches, and at present, there is only one family in Hotan still produces such paper. Afterwards, drive to the Yorung Kash (White Jade River) to see how local people look for jade. If you are interested in the local jade or silk products, go to the market in search of some good bargains.  

For the lunch, it is a good idea to taste some Hotan local snacks. In the afternoon, head to the boundless Taklamkan Desert , the second largest shifting-sand desert in the world. In local Uyghur language, Taklamakan means “The desert which buried some places under”. Spend the whole afternoon to ride a camel cross the sand dunes here and enjoy the magnificent scenery of the sunset in the desert. This night you will camp in the desert, we provide the best camping equipment, and the food, water, fruit for the dinner.

Catch the splendid sunrise in Taklamkan Desert in the early morning. See the sun slowly clears the horizon and the shadow. Witness the colors gives way to the intense clarity of desert light. Remember to use your camera to record this awe inspiring scene. Afterwards, say farewell to Taklamkan and drive to Kashgar. Stop in Yarkand to visit some attractions of this ancient city. First head to the Golden Graveyard, where buried the royal family members of the Yarkand Uyghur Kingdom.

The next destination is the Tomb of Aman Nisahan , who was the wife of the second king of the Yarkand Kingdom. Yet what made her famous were her poets and her transcription of the Twelve Mukam of famous traditional Uyghur music. Learn about her folktales from your local guide during your visit here. Afterwards, take a walk around the Yarkand Old Town to see the local customs and lifestyles, and do not miss out on a visit to the knife factory in the "knife town" of Yengisar before you drive to Kashgar.

Today you will visit the enchanting Karakul Lake . Set out from Kashgar this early morning, and drive along the Sino Pakistan Karakorum Highway. Stop at the Opal Village for a short break after one hour of driving, then finally enter the Kunlun Shan Mountain range, one of the last truly unexplored places on earth. Enjoy the surreal glacier scenery along the way before you arrive at the Karakul Lake. 

Lying at the foot of Mount Muztagata, Karakul Lake is so clarity as you will clearly see the reflection of the snow capped mountains surrounding the lake in the water. Walk on the grassland with roaming flocks and herds along the shore of the lake. Visit a local Kyrgyz family to experience their customs and culture in this afternoon. Afterwards, drive about 1.5 hours to Tashkorgan and prepare for the next day. 

Start today with a visit to the Stone Fort located in the north of Tashkorgan. It was once a bustling city since it was built at the junction of the middle route and southern route of the ancient Silk Road. At present, the remaining city wall still can be recognized clearly. Afterwards, spend couple of hours to savor the beautiful scenery of the surrounding Tashkorgan Grassland . See the magnificent Mount Muztagata and Pamir in distance. In the late afternoon, drive back to Kashgar city and prepare for the next day.

Spend today to walk around the downtown of Kashgar and visit several highlights, Abakh Khoja Tomb, Sunday Market and Id Kah Mosque. Abakh Khoja Tomb is the final resting place for five generations of the Apak Khoja family, including what is purported to be the body of Xiang Fei, a famous concubine in Qing Dynasty. Notice the pillars in the Tomb which decorated beautifully and designed perfectly while visiting here. Next with a walk around the famous Sunday Market, which is jammed with many small shops for selling numerous commodities, traditional scarves, leathers, clothes, and knick-knacks. This market attracts numerous merchants from all over Xinjiang plus nearby countries such as Pakistan and Kirghizstan.

In the afternoon, after wandering in the Kashgar Old Town, visit the Id Kah Mosque , the largest and busiest one in China. The mosque is located in the heart of Kashgar city. Be impressed by the old Islamic architectures with strong ethnic style and religious features. See numerous worshippers coming from different places of Xinjiang. End the tour today with a visit to the Handicraft Street. You will have the dinner tonight with a local Uyghur family. 

Say farewell to your guide and drive this morning as they will pick you up from the hotel and drive to the airport or train station for departure. If you wish to continue your travels, we are experts in tailor made trips and ready to assist you in extending your stay in China.

Tour notes:

General inclusions:, general exclusions:, you may also like.

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The Silk Road: 8 FAQs to Understand the Silk Road's Past and Future

The Silk Road trade route was recognized about 2,100 years ago in China for its trade and travel from China's Han Empire to Central Asia and Europe, and it revolutionized the world until it declined during the Ming Dynasty (1368–1644).

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What was china's silk road.

• Why Was It Called the Silk Road?

Where Did the Silk Road Start and End?

Why was the silk road important, what was traded on the silk road, how did the silk road come into being, when did the silk road come to an end, is the silk road still used today.

The Silk Road was an ancient trade and communication route across the Eurasian continent, formally recognized in China during the reign of Emperor Wu (157–87 BC) of the Han Dynasty. It linked China with many regions of the Old World in commerce between 119 BC and around 1400 AD.

In fact, the Silk Road can be divided into the "overland Silk Roads" and the " Maritime Silk Road ". Now, we usually refer to the northern overland Silk Road as the Silk Road in China.

Learn more from 13 Silk Road Facts You Didn't Know .

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Why Is It Called the Silk Road?

China is the "hometown of silk", and silk was the most representative of the goods exported by China on the Silk Road.

At the end of the 19th century, German geographer and traveler Ferdinand von Richthofen called the Silk Road routes die Seidenstrasse ('the Silk Road') or Seidenstrassen ('silk roads') in his book 'China'. The term was quickly accepted by academics and the public, and "Silk Road" was formally accepted as a proper noun.

In 119 BC, the Silk Road started from Chang'an (now called Xi'an), China's ancient capital, which was moved further east (and with it the Silk Road's start) to Luoyang during the Later Han Dynasty (25–220 AD). The Silk Road ended in Rome .

The total length of the Silk Road was about 9,000 kilometers (5,500 miles), and the total length of the northern Silk Road routes in China was about 4,000 kilometers (2,500 miles).

Which Countries Did the Silk Road Go through?

Starting from ancient China, the northern Silk Road bifurcated through the five Central Asian countries (the Stans), and continued through Afghanistan, Iran, Iraq, and Turkey, then to Greece and Italy across the Mediterranean Sea.

The Silk Road was not a single thoroughfare.

The main northern route went from Xi'an/Luoyang through the Gansu Corridor to Dunhuang with two or three trails crossing the desert to Kashgar, then across Central Asia to Europe.

The southwestern Silk Road route (the Tea Horse Road ) went from Yunnan and Sichuan through Tibet to India, and the Maritime Silk Road went via sea/ocean via SE Asia and India to the Middle East, Africa, and Europe.

The Silk Road promoted trade and commerce and cultural exchanges between European, African, and Asian countries. It generated the first upsurge of exchanges between China and the West.

Trade and travel between East and West caused revolutionary changes in everything from culture, religion, and technology to the emergence of huge empires and the disappearance of many small tribes, kingdoms, and empires.

The inventions of paper and gunpowder in China were so powerful that when the technology reached Europe, it enabled the Renaissance, the Protestant Reformation, and the scientific and industrial revolutions that transformed the world.

Paper enabled rapid publication, and gunpowder weapons changed warfare and enabled the destruction of older empires and the emergence of new nations.

Plagues spread and destroyed half the populations of large regions of Eurasia and new crops and technologies allowed the population in Eurasia to grow rapidly.

The Mongol invasions on the Silk Road routes imprinted Mongol ethnicity and language from Xinjiang to Eastern Europe.

Two of China's major religions, Buddhism and Islam , were introduced mainly via the Silk Road.

• For more, see Why China's Silk Road Is So Significant — 10 Reasons that Changed the World
• 7-Day When Silk Road Culture Meets Fabulous Fall Colors

The Han Empire initially wanted big central Asian horses for their cavalry. Initially, they mainly traded silk, but later paper and porcelain were also exported in exchange for precious metals, glassware, woolen articles, and other products all the way from Europe and Egypt.

• See more on What Was Traded on China's Silk Road and Why.

Silk Road trade from China officially began in 119 BC during the Han Empire period (206 BC – 220 AD).

In 139 BC, Emperor Wudi (156–87 BC) sent out Zhang Qian (200–114 BC) to lead an embassy into Dayuezhi (大月氏), i.e. Tokhara, or Termez in Uzbekistan today, hoping to join forces to repel the Huns.

Unfortunately, Zhang Qian was captured on the way and kept as a prisoner for several years by the Huns.

Eventually he took the opportunity to escape and, with the help of the Dayuan Kingdom (大宛国) of today's Fergana Valley, finally arrived in Dayuezhi.

In 126 BC, Zhang Qian returned to Chang'an and told the emperor about the exotic things he had seen along the way.

In 119 BC, Zhang Qian set out again . He traveled along the Silk Road with large quantities of silk, jade, and lacquerware and traded with the countries along the route.

These countries also sent envoys to the Han Dynasty. From then on, driven by the Silk Road, trade and cultural exchanges became more and more frequent.

The Silk Road trade continued over a roughly 1,500-year period. Trade grew and reached a height when the Mongols had control of Eurasia from China's Yuan Empire (1279–1368) to Eastern Europe.

The fall of the Yuan Empire and increased Ming Dynasty (1368–1644) isolationism, the growth of silk production in Europe and elsewhere, and the growth of maritime trade effectively ended Silk Road trading in the 1400s.

• For more, see The History of the Silk Road in China .

Into the historical context of the Silk Road, a new Silk Road is coming into being. In 2013, China launched the Belt and Road (the Silk Road Economic Belt and 21st-Century Maritime Silk Road) Initiative (BRI). It focuses on the goal of promoting mutual development and prosperity.

New trans-Asia transportation infrastructure : Substantial progress has already been made. The first freight trains from Europe to China began running in 2011 and have cut transit time from Germany to China from 50 days by sea to 18 days.

In 2018, a major 5,400-kilometer highway to St. Petersburg from the Yellow Sea was opened that allows vehicles to travel the distance in 10 days. This is a new travel option for economical tourism and sightseeing along Silk Road places.

The Silk Road has become a popular route for tourism . In Xinjiang and along the entire Silk Road from Xi'an to Kashgar and Altay in Xinjiang to Greece and Albania, Silk Road tourism is booming. Multi-country trips tracing the Silk Road route are becoming popular among both Chinese and Westerners.

Explore the Silk Road with Us

Silk Road travel is a rich cultural journey into the heart of China . A personal experience is much more interesting and profound than what you read about in an article. See our recommended Silk Road tours for inspiration:

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Beyond developing trade and the sharing of knowledge and culture between East and West, the Silk Road was responsible for what remain some of Asia’s most beautiful and well-preserved cities, including Samarkand and Kashgar.

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