The Silk Road Expedition Small Group Tour is a truly remarkable journey across Asia along this historic route. In just 36 days, you will visit 9 countries, explore dozens of cities and hundreds of monuments, and travel nearly 7,000 km from east to west. You will embark on this expedition alongside fellow adventurers eager to follow in the footsteps of the ancient caravans.
The tour begins in China, where you will visit Shanghai, Xi’an, and Beijing. Highlights include the Terracotta Army, the Forbidden City, the Great Wall of China, and many other iconic attractions of the Middle Kingdom. From there, you will travel to Kazakhstan to explore Almaty, the country’s former capital, which blends Soviet heritage with stunning mountain scenery.
Next is a short journey to neighboring Kyrgyzstan, where you will visit the capital, Bishkek, and the Burana Tower — the only surviving monument of the ancient city of Balasagun, once an important stop on the Silk Road. The journey then continues to Uzbekistan, home to ancient cities so well preserved that it feels like stepping back in time. You will admire the magnificent madrasahs of Samarkand, the mosques of Bukhara, the mighty walls of Khiva, and modern Tashkent, the country’s capital.
A brief visit to Tajikistan will take you to the breathtaking Seven Lakes and the historic town of Penjikent. The final Central Asian destination is Turkmenistan, where you will explore the gleaming white-marble city of Ashgabat and venture into the heart of the Karakum Desert to see the Darvaza gas crater. At this point, you will be only halfway through this extraordinary expedition.
The second half of the tour begins with a return to Tashkent, followed by a flight to Baku, the capital of Azerbaijan. After exploring Baku’s medieval landmarks, you will visit nearby attractions such as Ateshgah and Gobustan. Traveling onward to Georgia, you will stop in the Azerbaijani towns of Sheki and Shamakhi, as well as the colorful village of Lagich.
Your introduction to Georgia starts in the Kakheti region, the country’s renowned wine-producing area, set against the scenic foothills of the Caucasus Mountains. You will then continue to Tbilisi, Georgia’s capital, and explore its surroundings, including beautiful monasteries and mountain temples, along with many other remarkable sites.
The final destination is Armenia, the first country in the world to adopt Christianity as its state religion. Here, you will visit the capital, Yerevan, and explore ancient monasteries set along lakeshores, mountain slopes, and lush valleys.
The Silk Road Expedition Small Group Tour lasts more than a month, and during this time you will form lasting friendships with fellow travelers who share a passion for long journeys. The memories from this adventure will stay with you for years to come. Review the itinerary and tour details, choose the date that suits you best, and set off on an unforgettable journey.
Our group tour offers a unique and enriching experience, from ancient Silk Road cities to breathtaking landscapes and vibrant cultures. But the real magic happens when you connect with incredible people from around the world. Share stories, create lasting memories, and build friendships that make the journey truly special. Join us and discover your next great adventure!
Tour itinerary:
Arrive in Shanghai. You will be met by our driver at the airport and transferred to the hotel. Check-in time is 14:00. The rest of the day is free for you to rest or explore the city independently. Overnight at the hotel.
Following breakfast, your guide and driver will greet you at 09:00 to start a sightseeing tour with a visit to the Yu Garden, a classical garden built over 400 years ago featuring the Dragon Wall, the Nine-Turning Bridge, and traditional pavilions. Continue to the Old Street for a walk and free time for shopping. In the afternoon, walk along the Bund to hear about the history of Shanghai. Take a public ferry across the Huangpu River to the Pudong New Area (if the ferry is unavailable due to weather, the transfer will be by car). Ascend the Shanghai Tower, the world’s second-tallest building, for broad views of the city, including the Oriental Pearl TV Tower. Free time in the evening. Overnight at the hotel.
Duration of sightseeing tour: 7-8 hours
Duration of sightseeing tour: 7-8 hours
Breakfast. Check out from the hotel. Drive to Zhujiajiao Water Town, an ancient town with a history of over 1,700 years, known as the “Venice of Shanghai.” Walk across historic bridges and enjoy a relaxing boat ride along the canals. Free time.
Transfer to the airport for the flight to Xi’an. Upon arrival, transfer to the hotel for check-in. Overnight at the hotel.
Duration of sightseeing tour: 5 hours
Transfer to the airport for the flight to Xi’an. Upon arrival, transfer to the hotel for check-in. Overnight at the hotel.
Duration of sightseeing tour: 5 hours
Breakfast. In the morning, start your city tour with a visit to the famous Terracotta Army Museum to see the underground army of thousands of life-sized clay soldiers dating back to 206 BC. Return to the city centre to visit the Muslim Quarter; wander through the alleys and try local dishes. Continue to the Ancient City Wall, which has guarded the inner city for 600 years. A walk along the wall offers wide views over the city. Free time in the evening. Overnight at the hotel.
Duration of sightseeing tour: 7-8 hours
Duration of sightseeing tour: 7-8 hours
Breakfast. Transfer to the railway station to board the high-speed train to Beijing (1,216 km, 4 hrs 15 min). Upon arrival in Beijing, meet your guide and transfer into the city. Visit the Summer Palace, the former imperial retreat famous for its gardens and lakes. Overnight at the hotel.
Duration of sightseeing tour: 3-4 hours
Duration of sightseeing tour: 3-4 hours
Breakfast. Start the day by visiting Tiananmen Square, an important landmark of modern China. Proceed to the Forbidden City, the best-preserved ancient imperial palace complex dating back 500 years. In the afternoon, explore the Hutongs – the narrow alleys characteristic of old Beijing. Take a rickshaw ride through the lanes and visit a local family living in a traditional Siheyuan courtyard to gain insight into Hutong life. Dinner at a local restaurant featuring the famous Peking Duck, where you will watch the chef carve the dish and learn the customary way to enjoy it. Overnight at the hotel.
Duration of sightseeing tour: 7–8 hours
Meals: dinner
Duration of sightseeing tour: 7–8 hours
Meals: dinner
Breakfast. Begin the day with a visit to the Temple of Heaven, where emperors prayed for good harvests. You may notice locals practising martial arts and doing morning exercises in the park. In the afternoon, drive to the Mutianyu section of the Great Wall (approx. 2.5 hours). Known for its restored sections and scenic views, this part of the wall is generally less crowded (entrance fee is included; cable car or toboggan rides are optional and payable on site). Return to Beijing. Overnight at the hotel.
Duration of sightseeing tour: 7–8 hours
Duration of sightseeing tour: 7–8 hours
Breakfast. Check out from the hotel. Transfer to the airport for the flight to Almaty at 18:30-21:10 (3,285 km, 5hrs 40min). Arrive in Almaty. Our driver will meet you and take you to the hotel for overnight.
Following breakfast, your guide and driver will greet you at 09:00 for a full day of sightseeing. Begin with a scenic 25 km drive to Shymbulak Ski Resort. Enjoy a cable car ride with wide views of the Tian Shan Mountains’ snow-capped peaks. After a welcome lunch, continue to some of Almaty's notable sites, including Panfilov Park, the historic Zenkov Cathedral, and the Museum of National Musical Instruments. The tour ends with free time on the vibrant Arbat Street (Zhybek Zholy Street), Almaty's main pedestrian street. Free time. Overnight at the hotel.
Duration of sightseeing tour: 7–8 hours
Meals: welcome lunch
Duration of sightseeing tour: 7–8 hours
Meals: welcome lunch
After breakfast, at 09:00 depart Almaty and drive to Bishkek along the highway, enjoying the natural scenery on the way (250 km, 4 h). Upon arrival check in at the hotel. Start a sightseeing tour in Bishkek: visit Oak Park, Ala-Too Square, and the Statue of Manas. See the Philharmonic Hall and Victory Monument – notable examples of Soviet architecture. Free time. Overnight at the hotel.
Duration of sightseeing tour: 2-3 hours
Duration of sightseeing tour: 2-3 hours
Breakfast. Depart Bishkek at 09:00. The first stop will be Burana Tower, which was part of the ancient city of Balasagun (11th to 13th centuries). Next on the agenda will be watching a traditional Kyrgyz equestrian game called “Ulak Tartysh” (a form of mounted competition using a goat carcass). Ulak Tartysh (also known as Kok Boru) is played between two teams of riders competing for control of the carcass. Transfer to Don Aryk village and have lunch at the home of a local Kyrgyz family. After lunch, watch a demonstration of yurt construction and even take part if you wish. Local Kyrgyz women will explain the purpose and function of each part of the yurt. Transfer to Bishkek airport (110 km, ~1 h 30 min) to take the flight to Tashkent, which arrives in the evening (1 h 20 min). Transfer to the hotel for overnight.
Duration of sightseeing tour: 4-5 hours
Meals: lunch
Duration of sightseeing tour: 4-5 hours
Meals: lunch
Breakfast. Start the Tashkent city tour at 10:00 with a visit to the Old City of Tashkent. This area encompasses the Khast-Imam Complex (famous for displaying one of the earliest copies of the Qur’an, the Holy Book of Islam) and Chorsu Bazaar, where you can haggle for spices, dried fruit, and nuts. Then take a ride on the Tashkent Metro to the city centre to visit the Applied Arts Museum and walk past Navoi Theatre to Amir Timur Square, where you will end the Tashkent city tour. After the tour, you will have free time. Overnight at the hotel.
Duration of sightseeing tour: 5-6 hours
Duration of sightseeing tour: 5-6 hours
Early in the morning, get a takeaway breakfast from the hotel and transfer to the railway station. The high-speed Afrosiyob
train departs Tashkent and arrives in Samarkand (300 km, 2 h 10 min). Upon arrival in Samarkand meet your driver and guide. Your city tour will begin with a visit to the Gur-Emir Mausoleum, the final resting place of the Turco-Mongol emperor Timur. Continue to the spectacular Registan Square, explore the Bibi-Khanum Mosque and Siyab Bazaar. After the lunch break, continue to the Shakhi-Zinda Necropolis, then take a short drive to Konigil village to learn about the traditional techniques used to make the famous Samarkand paper from mulberry bark. Overnight at the hotel.
Duration of sightseeing tour: 6-7 hours
Tea/coffee break
train departs Tashkent and arrives in Samarkand (300 km, 2 h 10 min). Upon arrival in Samarkand meet your driver and guide. Your city tour will begin with a visit to the Gur-Emir Mausoleum, the final resting place of the Turco-Mongol emperor Timur. Continue to the spectacular Registan Square, explore the Bibi-Khanum Mosque and Siyab Bazaar. After the lunch break, continue to the Shakhi-Zinda Necropolis, then take a short drive to Konigil village to learn about the traditional techniques used to make the famous Samarkand paper from mulberry bark. Overnight at the hotel.Duration of sightseeing tour: 6-7 hours
Tea/coffee break
Breakfast. At 9 am transfer to the Uzbekistan–Tajikistan border point, Jartepa (50 km, 1 h). Upon arrival at the customs and passport control on both sides, proceed to the exit of the border control area. At that point, our guide/driver will be waiting for you. Meet your local Tajik guide and driver for the journey to the Seven Lakes (80 km, ~2 h). These lakes are located in the western part of the Fann Mountains. Each lake has its own colour, ranging from soft turquoise to deep purple. Have lunch at the guest house next to the 4th lake. Those who would like to enjoy the view from the 7th lake have the option of a hiking tour from the 6th lake up to the 7th lake. In the late afternoon transfer to the hotel* in Penjikent. Check in and overnight.
Duration of sightseeing tour: 4-5 hours
Meals: lunch, dinner
Note*: as we travel to the more remote and authentic region of the Fann Mountains, the tourist infrastructure is simpler. We will be staying in the best available local hotel, Soviet-era building. Please expect more basic amenities compared to the larger cities – it's all part of the adventure!
Duration of sightseeing tour: 4-5 hours
Meals: lunch, dinner
Note*: as we travel to the more remote and authentic region of the Fann Mountains, the tourist infrastructure is simpler. We will be staying in the best available local hotel, Soviet-era building. Please expect more basic amenities compared to the larger cities – it's all part of the adventure!
Breakfast. Drive to ancient Penjikent, the ruins of a town founded by the Sogdians in the 5th century and abandoned by Arabs in the 8th century. The excavated site reveals the foundations of houses, a citadel containing several Zoroastrian fire temples, and the remains of the city bazaar. In the newer part of Penjikent, you will visit a local bazaar and a mosque, followed by the Rudaki Museum – Penjikent is the birthplace of Abu Abdallah Rudaki, widely regarded as the father of Persian poetry. After the sightseeing tour, drive to the Jartepa border crossing. Complete the border formalities. On the Uzbek side, your driver will meet you. Transfer to Bukhara (325 km, 4–5 hrs.). Upon arrival, transfer to the hotel, check in and overnight.
Duration of sightseeing tour: 3 hours
Duration of sightseeing tour: 3 hours
Breakfast. At 10:00, start exploring the Old City of Bukhara. The walking tour will take you through the Lyabi-Khauz Ensemble, the Chor-Minor Madrasah, the Kalyan Minaret, the Miri-Arab Madrasah, and the paired Ulugbek and Abdulazizkhan Madrasahs. Continue to the Ark Fortress, and then to the Ismail Samani and Chashma-Ayub Mausoleums, along with the city’s historic trading domes. Free time from 15:00 until the National Show at Nadir Divan-begi Madrasah, which begins at 18:00. Overnight at the hotel.
Duration of sightseeing tour: 5-6 hours
Tea/coffee break
Duration of sightseeing tour: 5-6 hours
Tea/coffee break
Breakfast. Free time. At 13:30, depart for the Uzbekistan–Turkmenistan border point at Farap–Alat (100 km, 1 h 30 min). After completing the border formalities on both sides, proceed to the exit of the control area, where our guide and driver will be waiting for you with a sign bearing your name. Transfer to Turkmenabat Airport (50 km, 1 h) for the evening flight to Ashgabat at 20:00. Upon arrival in Ashgabat at 20:50, take an evening city tour before transferring to the hotel for overnight.
Duration of sightseeing tour: 1 hour
Duration of sightseeing tour: 1 hour
Breakfast. At 9 am, start a sightseeing tour of Ashgabat. The capital of Turkmenistan has recently been recognised by the Guinness Book of World Records as the city with the largest number of white marble buildings. During the tour, visit the archaeological site of Old Nissa (a UNESCO World Heritage Site) and the Spiritual Mosque, one of the largest mosques in Central Asia. Continue to the National Museum of History, the Monument of Neutrality, the Ertugrul Gazi Mosque, and the newly built Independence Park. The city tour will take around six hours. In the afternoon, drive through the Karakum Desert to the Darvaza Gas Crater (280 km, 4 h). After arriving at the crater, the camp will be set up and you will have a fire-cooked dinner beside the “Door to Hell”. Overnight in yurts.
Duration of sightseeing tour: 5-6 hours
Meals: camp-style dinner
Note: We will travel in 4x4 vehicles across the rugged Karakum Desert. The route is unpaved, so expect a bumpy and adventurous ride – it is the only way to reach this remote location.
At the camp, we will stay in traditional yurts with basic shared outdoor washing and toilet facilities, giving you a close experience of the desert environment.
There is an option to skip the visit to Darvaza and stay an extra night at the hotel in Ashgabat, then take a flight to Dashoguz the following morning at an additional cost.
Duration of sightseeing tour: 5-6 hours
Meals: camp-style dinner
Note: We will travel in 4x4 vehicles across the rugged Karakum Desert. The route is unpaved, so expect a bumpy and adventurous ride – it is the only way to reach this remote location.
At the camp, we will stay in traditional yurts with basic shared outdoor washing and toilet facilities, giving you a close experience of the desert environment.
There is an option to skip the visit to Darvaza and stay an extra night at the hotel in Ashgabat, then take a flight to Dashoguz the following morning at an additional cost.
Camp-style breakfast. Drive through the Karakum Desert to the Turkmenistan–Uzbekistan border point at Dashoguz–Shavat (310 km, 4 h). After completing the border formalities on both sides, meet your Uzbek driver and continue to Khiva (60 km, 1 h). Upon arrival, check in to the hotel. Free time. Overnight at the hotel.
Breakfast and hotel check-out (the hotel will store your luggage for the day). Spend the morning exploring the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Ichan-Kala Fortress. The walking tour includes the Mukhammad Amin Khan Madrasa, the Mukhammad Rahimkhan Madrasa, Kalta Minor, the Juma Mosque, the Tash-Khovli Palace, the Pakhlavan Makhmud Mausoleum, and the Minaret of Islom Khodja. Transfer to Urgench Airport (30 km, 35 min) for the flight to Tashkent (1,093 km, 1 h 40 min). Upon arrival in Tashkent, transfer to a restaurant for a farewell dinner, then continue to the hotel for overnight.
Duration of sightseeing tour: 5-6 hours
Tea/coffee break
Meals: farewell dinner
Duration of sightseeing tour: 5-6 hours
Tea/coffee break
Meals: farewell dinner
At 09:00 transfer to Tashkent International Airport to take flight HY 755 to Baku, which departs at 07:35 and arrives at 09:30 (2 h 55 min). Private transfer to your hotel will be arranged. Check-in at 14:00. Free time. Overnight at the hotel.
At 09:00, meet your guide and the rest of the group to start the sightseeing tour in Baku. Visit Martyrs Lane, known as ‘Shehidler Khiyabany’ among locals. When you walk through the Alley of the Martyrs, you will find a beautiful view overlooking Baku’s coastline. Move to Icheri Sheher, the old part of the city to visit Shirvanshah's Palace and Maiden Tower (UNESCO World Heritage Sites), Caravanserai, Museum of Miniature Books, and main market square, which has numerous art studios and souvenir stalls. Continue touring New Baku by exploring Nizami Street and Fountain Square.
After lunch break, we will drive to Gobustan to visit the Petroglyphs Museum and explore petroglyphs dating back to 10,000 BC. The Gobustan Rock Art Cultural Landscape is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Pay a visit to the Petroglyphs Museum and explore rock carvings dating back to 10,000 BC. We will then explore small mud volcanoes of Gobustan Reserve. Gobustan is home to almost half of the world’s mud volcanoes. Return to Baku. Enjoy a welcome dinner at a national restaurant. Overnight at the hotel.
Duration of sightseeing tour: 10-11 hours
Driving distance: 150 km
Meals: welcome dinner
After lunch break, we will drive to Gobustan to visit the Petroglyphs Museum and explore petroglyphs dating back to 10,000 BC. The Gobustan Rock Art Cultural Landscape is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Pay a visit to the Petroglyphs Museum and explore rock carvings dating back to 10,000 BC. We will then explore small mud volcanoes of Gobustan Reserve. Gobustan is home to almost half of the world’s mud volcanoes. Return to Baku. Enjoy a welcome dinner at a national restaurant. Overnight at the hotel.
Duration of sightseeing tour: 10-11 hours
Driving distance: 150 km
Meals: welcome dinner
After breakfast, drive to the Absheron Peninsula to visit Ateshgah, located in the village of Surakhany. Zoroastrians from India used to travel thousands of kilometres to Ateshgah to worship the fire coming out of the earth. Return to Baku to visit the iconic Heydar Alyev Cultural Centre, which is located in a quirky building designed by Iraqi-British architect Zaha Hadid. Free time in the afternoon. Overnight at the hotel.
Duration of sightseeing tour: 4-5 hours
Driving distance: 50 km
Duration of sightseeing tour: 4-5 hours
Driving distance: 50 km
We will say our goodbyes to Baku and depart towards Sheki. On the way, stop at the Diri Baba Mausoleum in Maraza village. Continue to Shamakhi to visit the historical Juma Mosque, which was restored in 2013. Weather permitting, this will be followed by a scenic drive through the Girdimanchay River Canyon to the 5th century village of Lagich (Lahic, Lahij, Lahich). Lagich is rich in historic and cultural value, with charming cobbled streets. It is famous for its medieval water supply and sewage systems and its many traditional workshops where jewellery, copperware, carpets, pottery, daggers, and iron tools are made. Continue driving to Sheki, a pleasant and easily walkable medieval town set in a lush mountainous area, which is particularly famous for its sweet baklava. Arrive in Sheki at about 19:00 and spend the night at the hotel.
Duration of sightseeing tour: 10-11 hours
Driving distance: 340 km
Duration of sightseeing tour: 10-11 hours
Driving distance: 340 km
Breakfast. At 08:30, visit the colorful Sheki Bazaar. Here, you can find virtually everything you may want to eat: local fruits and berries, spices, freshly-baked bread, honey, cheeses, and Sheki sweets. Continue to the Palace of Sheki Khans, which is surrounded by medieval fortress walls, and then visit handicrafts workshops and caravanserai (UNESCO World Heritage Site). Leave Sheki and head towards the border with Georgia (115 km, ~2 h). Cross the border and start exploring the Eastern part of Georgia, which is famous for its viticulture and winemaking traditions. Passing by the picturesque landscapes of vineyards and wine-producing villages, we will reach a family-owned winery where centuries-old winemaking traditions are preserved in a qvevri wine cellar. The winemaker will give us a tour and host us for a Kakheti-style lunch with wine. We will arrive at our charming Schuchmann Wines Château & SPA between 18:00 and 19:00. The resort is surrounded by beautiful vineyards and offers stunning views of the Caucasus Mountains – the perfect place to take a break before continuing our journey in Georgia. We will stay here for two nights.
Driving distance: 180 km
Meals: lunch in a winemaker’s family
Driving distance: 180 km
Meals: lunch in a winemaker’s family
This day is a free one to enjoy nature, vineyards, gym, and the outdoor swimming pool. The hotel also offers culinary masterclasses of Georgian traditional dishes and a tasting room to sample Schuchmann wines (wine tour and tasting are included in your stay).
Optional Group Tour to Telavi
A journey to the capital of the Kakheti region, Telavi encapsulates visits to two families where you get to meet locals who produce wine and cheese. A delicious family-style lunch awaits you!
Experiences: family hospitality, museum, wine amphoras, wine, cheese, local lunch.
Duration of sightseeing tour: 4-5 hours
Driving distance: 25 km
Price per person: $80 (including the museum entrance fee, wine tasting, and cheese tasting with lunch).
Optional Group Tour to Telavi
A journey to the capital of the Kakheti region, Telavi encapsulates visits to two families where you get to meet locals who produce wine and cheese. A delicious family-style lunch awaits you!
Experiences: family hospitality, museum, wine amphoras, wine, cheese, local lunch.
- In Telavi, we will step into the past at the Royal Castle History Museum “Batonistsikhe” originally built in the 17th century.
- We will then visit Kbilashvili family which for many decades makes Qvevri, the amphora-shape clay vessels used to produce wine in Georgia. We will see how Qvevris are made and taste locally produced wine.
- Our next stop beckons at a family boutique cheese factory and cellar. We will indulge into the world of cheeses and then taste five types of locally produced cheeses. Here, the family will greet us with a delicious lunch.
- We will finish our tour by having a short walk through the charming streets of old Telavi and stop for a photo at the monument to Erekli II and the giant 800-year-old plane tree.
Duration of sightseeing tour: 4-5 hours
Driving distance: 25 km
Price per person: $80 (including the museum entrance fee, wine tasting, and cheese tasting with lunch).
After a relaxing day at the Wine Resort, we will continue exploring Kakheti at 10:00 by visiting the Tsinandali Estate, the residence of the dukes of Georgia. It has a beautiful park, a museum, and a wine cellar that belonged to Prince Chavchavadze, a public figure and poet of the 19th century. For lunch, we will be hosted by a local family, where we can enjoy a traditional feast and hear the best Georgian toasts. A truly local experience awaits you!
Having enjoyed the hospitality of our hosts, we will drive to the royal town of Sighnaghi, which is surrounded by defensive walls with 23 towers and was an important point on the Great Silk Road. We will also visit the Bodbe Convent – according to legend, this is the burial place of St. Nino, who converted Georgia to Christianity in the 4th century. We will arrive in the capital of Georgia at about 18:30–19:30. Overnight at the hotel.
Driving distance: 160 km
Meals: traditional lunch in a family
Having enjoyed the hospitality of our hosts, we will drive to the royal town of Sighnaghi, which is surrounded by defensive walls with 23 towers and was an important point on the Great Silk Road. We will also visit the Bodbe Convent – according to legend, this is the burial place of St. Nino, who converted Georgia to Christianity in the 4th century. We will arrive in the capital of Georgia at about 18:30–19:30. Overnight at the hotel.
Driving distance: 160 km
Meals: traditional lunch in a family
After breakfast, we will embark on a Tbilisi sightseeing tour. Start at Metekhi Church and the monument to Vakhtang Gorgasali, the legendary founder of Tbilisi. Visit Narikala Fortress to enjoy a breathtaking panoramic view of the city. Walk past Tbilisi’s only mosque, down to the sulphur bath house district. Enjoy a stroll through the Shardeni area, which is full of narrow streets with cozy cafés, wine bars, and souvenir shops, and breathe in the history of Old Tbilisi. Also visit Sioni Cathedral, Anchiskhati Basilica, and the famous Rezo Gabriadze Theatre’s clock tower, before crossing the Bridge of Peace to Rike Park. After a couple of hours at your leisure, meet the rest of the group at the hotel to go for a dinner to welcome you to Georgia (departing from the hotel by bus at 19:00). Overnight at the hotel.
Duration of sightseeing tour: 4-5 hours
Driving distance: 5 km
Meals: welcome dinner
Duration of sightseeing tour: 4-5 hours
Driving distance: 5 km
Meals: welcome dinner
Breakfast. Today we will explore the North of Georgia. Our first stop will be at Jvari Monastery, a true architectural masterpiece of the Early Middle Ages, which is picturesquely perched on a hill above the confluence of the Aragvi and Mtkvari Rivers. Continue to Mtskheta (UNESCO World Heritage Site), one of the oldest towns in Georgia and the country’s cultural and religious center. Mtskheta was the capital of the Eastern Georgian Kingdom of Iberia from the 3rd century BC. Visit Svetitskhoveli, the main cathedral of Mtskheta and a sacred place where the robe of Christ is kept. Next, drive over the Cross Pass and make a short stop at the Soviet-era “People’s Friendship” mountain viewpoint, which overlooks a deep gorge of the Caucasus Mountains. In Kazbegi, switch to a four-wheel drive vehicle to reach Gergeti Holy Trinity Church located at an altitude of 2,170 m and enjoy breathtaking views of Mount Kazbegi.
We will arrive at our hotel in Gudauri at about 19:00 for overnight.
Driving distance: 210 km
Meals: lunch
We will arrive at our hotel in Gudauri at about 19:00 for overnight.
Driving distance: 210 km
Meals: lunch
Breakfast. Drive to the Ananuri architectural complex, a former residence of Argveti dukes, which features churches and towers dating back to the 16th and 17th centuries and beautifully overlooks the Jinvali Reservoir. Then explore the cave town of Uplistsikhe, which dates to the Hellenistic Period and is notable for its unique combination of various styles of rock-cut architecture, including both pagan and Christian. Continue to Stalin’s hometown of Gori. Visit the Stalin Museum, an impressive Soviet-era museum with an exhibition hardly changed since its opening in 1957. The museum houses more than 60,000 artifacts, the tiny house where Stalin was born, and an impressive bulletproof train that Stalin used to travel to Yalta and Potsdam. We will arrive in Tbilisi in the evening. Overnight at the hotel.
Duration of sightseeing tour: 9-10 hours
Driving distance: 250 km
Meals: lunch
Duration of sightseeing tour: 9-10 hours
Driving distance: 250 km
Meals: lunch
Breakfast. Free day in Tbilisi (guide and transportation are not provided). If you wish to explore other destinations of Georgia, we can offer private day tours from Tbilisi:
For wine lovers
Sample delicious Georgian wines and learn about the local winemaking visiting wineries in the region Kartli.
One-Day Kartli Wine Tour from Tbilisi
Canyons and natural sites
Explore the breathtaking scenery of the Samegrelo region by visiting one of the most memorable places in Georgia, Martvili Canyon.
Martvili Canyon Day Tour
Explore the beautiful Tsalka Canyon on a day tour from Tbilisi.
One-day Tour to Tsalka Canyon
Hiking
Immerse yourself in beautiful nature and enjoy quality hiking time in the vicinities of Tbilisi, Birtvisi.
Day Hike to Birtvisi Canyon
Sightseeing tour to cave monastery
Experience the beauty of an ancient cave town and mysterious fortresses with one day to Varzdzia.
Vardzia and Rabati Fortress Tour
If you decide on spending your free day in Tbilisi, we suggest the following activities and places:
For wine lovers
Sample delicious Georgian wines and learn about the local winemaking visiting wineries in the region Kartli.
One-Day Kartli Wine Tour from Tbilisi
Canyons and natural sites
Explore the breathtaking scenery of the Samegrelo region by visiting one of the most memorable places in Georgia, Martvili Canyon.
Martvili Canyon Day Tour
Explore the beautiful Tsalka Canyon on a day tour from Tbilisi.
One-day Tour to Tsalka Canyon
Hiking
Immerse yourself in beautiful nature and enjoy quality hiking time in the vicinities of Tbilisi, Birtvisi.
Day Hike to Birtvisi Canyon
Sightseeing tour to cave monastery
Experience the beauty of an ancient cave town and mysterious fortresses with one day to Varzdzia.
Vardzia and Rabati Fortress Tour
If you decide on spending your free day in Tbilisi, we suggest the following activities and places:
- Georgian National Museum on Rustaveli Avenue – to visit the “Archaeological Treasury” exhibition;
- National Gallery on Rustaveli Avenue – to see the works of the famous Georgian artists Niko Pirosmani, David Kakabadze, and Lado Gudiashvili;
- Tbilisi flea market at Dry Bridge – where you can find antiquities (many of which are from the Soviet era), paintings by local artists, and handmade Georgian souvenirs;
- David Agmashenebeli Avenue – a recently-renovated pedestrian street full of historical buildings that have beautiful facades in the art nouveau, pseudo gothic, and classicist styles with a mix of typical Georgian ornamentation and balconies. All along the street there are plenty of cozy art cafés, galleries, shops, and wine bars;
- Dezertirebi Bazaar – which sells local, natural products including Georgian sweets (such as churchkhela); various types of dried fruits, nuts, and spices; and Georgian cheeses;
- Funicular railway to Mtatsminda Mountain – which offers a beautiful view of Tbilisi;
- Wander in Sololaki – a neighborhood full of art nouveau houses.
- In the evening, you can visit the famous Tbilisi sulphur bath houses to relax in the hot, naturally sulphur-enriched water after a long day of exploring (both public and private rooms are available, but private ones should be booked in advance).
- For those who are interested in culture, we suggest visiting the State Opera House of Georgia to enjoy a ballet or opera performance (opera.ge). You can find out what other cultural events are on in Tbilisi, and book tickets, at tkt.ge.
Breakfast. At 09:00, meet your driver at the hotel and transfer to the Georgian-Armenian border point, Sadakhlo-Bagratashen. Cross the border and meet your Armenian guide and driver to start the journey to the land of ancient traditions and churches. Drive to the Lori region and visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Haghpat Monastery. This stunning example of traditional Armenian architecture was erected between the 10th and 13th centuries. Standing on a hillside, Haghpat beautifully overlooks the Debed River Canyon. The monastery’s location was chosen to protect the peace and seclusion of the monks.
We will have lunch in a hospitable Armenian family before continuing our way to Lake Sevan, one of the largest high-mountain freshwater lakes in the world (and considered to be the “Jewel of Armenia”). The lake’s coastline is rich with dense woods, white cliff faces, mountain steppes, and Alpine meadows. Visit Sevanavank Monastery, which is situated at Lake Sevan and is surrounded by mountains. We will arrive in Yerevan, the capital of Armenia, in the evening. Overnight at the hotel.
Duration of sightseeing tour: 9-10 hours
Driving distance: 370 km
Meals: lunch in a family
We will have lunch in a hospitable Armenian family before continuing our way to Lake Sevan, one of the largest high-mountain freshwater lakes in the world (and considered to be the “Jewel of Armenia”). The lake’s coastline is rich with dense woods, white cliff faces, mountain steppes, and Alpine meadows. Visit Sevanavank Monastery, which is situated at Lake Sevan and is surrounded by mountains. We will arrive in Yerevan, the capital of Armenia, in the evening. Overnight at the hotel.
Duration of sightseeing tour: 9-10 hours
Driving distance: 370 km
Meals: lunch in a family
After breakfast, drive out of the city to the Holy See of Armenia, Etchmiadzin, where we’ll visit Etchmiadzin Cathedral (the residence of the Catholicos, the supreme head of the Armenian Apostolic Church) and the museum of Christian relics (UNESCO World Heritage Site). Return to explore Yerevan, one of the world’s oldest cities. Yerevan is also nicknamed the “Pink City” and impresses visitors with its grand Soviet architecture. Our first stop in Yerevan will be at the Armenian Genocide Memorial Complex on Tsitsernakaberd Hill. Next, visit the Cascade Monument, a 500-metre high, 50-metre wide limestone staircase with no less than 572 steps. From the top of the monument, enjoy a breathtaking city view that includes the Opera House, Opera House, Mount Ararat, Swan Lake, Republic Square, and Abovyan Avenue, all of which we will see as we walk the streets of Yerevan (~2 km walking). Our bus will then drop us off at the hotel. Free evening. Overnight at the hotel.
Duration of sightseeing tour: 6-7 hours
Driving distance: 50 km
Duration of sightseeing tour: 6-7 hours
Driving distance: 50 km
Breakfast. At 08:00, head to Khor Virap Monastery. According to legend, St. Gregory the Illuminator (who is credited with converting Armenia to Christianity) had been kept in the basement here for 13 years for disseminating of Christianity, until King Tradt decided to adopt the new religion. The monastery’s location allows you to enjoy superb views of Mount Ararat. Drive to the Noravank complex, which is situated on a ledge of a deep, winding gorge. Noravank stands among bizarrely shaped, precipitous red cliffs. An Armenian family will host us at their house for a delicious lunch.
We will finish today’s tour by visiting the Areni Cave complex, where in 2008, an ancient wine storage and the earliest shoe in the world were discovered. Arrive in Yerevan at around 18:00. Overnight at the hotel.
Duration of sightseeing tour: 9-10 hours
Driving distance: 240 km
Meals: lunch in a family
We will finish today’s tour by visiting the Areni Cave complex, where in 2008, an ancient wine storage and the earliest shoe in the world were discovered. Arrive in Yerevan at around 18:00. Overnight at the hotel.
Duration of sightseeing tour: 9-10 hours
Driving distance: 240 km
Meals: lunch in a family
Depart Yerevan and drive to Garni, the only pagan temple in Armenia which survived the introduction of Christianity in the 4th century. Descend Garni Gorge to explore monumental rock formations called Symphony of Stones. Our final sightseeing stop today is the monastery complex Geghard (UNESCO World Heritage Site). A cut into the rock complex consists of several churches and tombs representing Armenian medieval architecture at its zenith. The beautiful landscape of Geghard is framed by towering cliffs.
You will have a free afternoon to explore more of Yerevan. Here are our suggestions:
Duration of sightseeing tour: 4-5 hours
Driving distance: 80 km
Meals: farewell dinner
You will have a free afternoon to explore more of Yerevan. Here are our suggestions:
- History Museum;
- Souvenirs market “Vernisage”;
- Dried fruit market (GUM) located at Khoryenatsi M. str. 35, one of the best places to buy local food and snacks;
- Stroll around Kond, the oldest district in Yerevan, for those who are eager to feel the aura of a small, but old district in a modern capital.
Duration of sightseeing tour: 4-5 hours
Driving distance: 80 km
Meals: farewell dinner
Breakfast, followed by hotel check out (by 12:00). Free time until your transfer to Yerevan International Airport. Departure. End of Great Silk Road Expedition Small Group Tour.
Driving distance: 10 km
*If you are flying from Tbilisi, you can arrange a private transfer from Yerevan to Tbilisi Airport or Hotel (approximately 6 hours, US$150 for a sedan).
Driving distance: 10 km
*If you are flying from Tbilisi, you can arrange a private transfer from Yerevan to Tbilisi Airport or Hotel (approximately 6 hours, US$150 for a sedan).
Price includes:
- All transfers: 1–2 pax by sedan-type car, 3–7 pax by minivan/van, 8–16 pax by a 20-seat bus;
- Accommodation based on double/twin room sharing, breakfasts included;
- English-speaking local guides in each country;
- Entrance fees to sights as per itinerary;
- Economy class tickets for flights: Shanghai - Xi'an (20 kg check in/5 kg hand luggage), Beijing – Almaty (32 kg check in/ 8 kg hand luggage), Bishkek-Tashkent (23 kg check in/ 5 kg hand luggage), Turkmenabad-Ashgabat (20 kg check in/ 5 kg hand luggage), Urgench-Tashkent and Tashkent – Baku (23 kg check in and 8 kg hand luggage);
- Economy-class tickets for trains: Xi'an–Beijing, Tashkent–Samarkand;
- Visa support for the Turkmenistan tourist visa;
- Uzbekistan e-visa (triple entry), Tajikistan e-visa (if required) and Azerbaijan e-visa;
- National folklore show in Bukhara on Day 16, tea/coffee breaks on Day 13,16, and 20;
- Meals in China and Central Asia: dinner in Beijing on Day 6; welcome lunch in Almaty on Day 9; lunch with a local family in Don-Aryk on Day 11; lunch at Seven Lakes and dinner in Penjikent on Day 14; camp-style dinner at Darvaza on Day 18; farewell dinner in Tashkent on Day 20.
- Meals in Caucasus: 6 lunches (including 4 lunches in families), and 3 dinners with folk show;
- Wine tour and tasting in Kakheti, Georgia.
Price doesn't include:
- Single room supplement;
- Full board (lunches and dinners);
- Hotel charges for additional services;
- Tourist tax of 2 USD per night in Ashgabat, payable to the hotel upon check-out;
- Consular fee for the Chinese visa, if required;
- E-visas to Georgia and Armenia (if necessary);
- Turkmenistan visa fees: tourist visa (approx. 80 USD), migration tax (14 USD), and express PCR test (33 USD);
- Uzbekistan tourist visa fee at Tashkent International Airport (60–80 USD);
- Visa support for Kyrgyzstan and Kazakhstan tourist visas;
- Personal travel insurance;
- Tips to local guides and drivers;
- International flight tickets before and after the tour;
- Extra night at the Ashgabat hotel and Ashgabat–Dashoguz flight (295 USD).
Dates & Prices, per person
2026
100% guaranteed departures – even if there is only 1 traveler.
Group size: 1-16 persons
Please note that itinerary and prices are subject to change due to airline and train schedule changes, currency fluctuations and other unforeseeable events.
We strongly recommend NOT to purchase airline tickets for 2026 tours without discussing it with your travel consultant.
Accommodation
Holiday Inn Shanghai Jingan Hotel / Northen Hotel Shanghai / Metropark Jichen Hotel Shanghai
Kazzhol Park / Mercure or similar
Panjakent Plaza 3* / Fariz 3* / Umariyon 3* or similar
Archabil / Diwan
Tour Enquiry
Important notes:
- Visa required. We will need to apply for your Letter of Invitation (LOI) in advance. The Turkmenistan visa can be obtained at the border upon arrival, based on the approved LOI.
- If you need to obtain an Uzbekistan visa, it should be a multiple-entry e-visa.
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