History Turkmenistan Tours &amp; Trips

premier

4.5/5 Excellent

Small Group Tour

Why we love them

They’re very committed to sustainable and responsible tourism and contribute to important initiatives like climate action.

Lodging level

Standard - 3 star

Physical level

Moderate

Trip pace

Balanced schedule

Visits

Khiva

Highlights

This incredible journey takes you through parts of Central Asia that few people can find on a map, let alone have considered travelling to.
Steeped in Silk Road history and immortalised in many great tales, the UNESCO-protected town of Khiva is as photogenic as it is legendary.
Explore the sprawling ruins of Mary, Merv and other ancient kingdoms and contemplate the remnants of empires that once ruled these vast lands.
Witness the eternal flames of the Darvaza Crater, aka the 'Door to Hell' as you camp nearby – one of the strangest, most mesmerising geological oddities on earth.
Ashgabat rose from the devastation of an earthquake in 1948 and has enjoyed a surreal and futuristic makeover - witness its often bizarre, but certainly memorable architecture on a city tour.

Themes

Cultural, High Adventure

What travelers are saying

"We joined the Intrepid “Real Italy Food Tour” and enjoyed it thoroughly. Our tour guide, Micol, was very knowledgeable and provided us with lots of good information. It seems Micol knew many of the staff of the venues we visited, including the pasta making class we attended. Our group of 11 travelers was extremely compatible, which greatly added to the fun and enjoyment."

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-26%$3,787

10 days From$2,805

Health Safety +

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Uzbekistan & Turkmenistan Adventure

premier

4.5/5 Excellent

Small Group Tour

Why we love them

They’re very committed to sustainable and responsible tourism and contribute to important initiatives like climate action.

Lodging level

Standard - 3 star

Physical level

Moderate

Trip pace

Balanced schedule

Visits

Bukhara, Khiva, Samarkand, Tashkent

Highlights

This incredible journey takes you through parts of Central Asia that few people can find on a map, let alone have considered travelling to.
The much-photographed Registan in Samarkand is one of the true pinnacles of Islamic architecture. You'll be wowed by the scale, grandeur and beauty of the monuments to iconic figures such as Tamerlane and the Persia-influenced madressas, mosques and mausoleums.
Spend an evening in the isolated Kyzylkum Desert, warming yourself by the fire and sleeping in a yurt.
Get to really know the stories and people of Uzbekistan while sharing home-cooked meals with local families, including a home stay in the remote Nuratau Mountains.
Spend time in World Heritage-listed Bukhara, a 6th-century-BC city that's drenched in history and home to the formidable Ark of Bukhara.

Themes

Cultural, High Adventure

What travelers are saying

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-26%$5,954

18 days From$4,410

Health Safety +

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Bishkek to Ashgabat

premier

4.5/5 Excellent

Small Group Tour

Why we love them

They’re very committed to sustainable and responsible tourism and contribute to important initiatives like climate action.

Lodging level

Standard - 3 star

Physical level

Moderate

Trip pace

Balanced schedule

Visits

Bishkek, Bukhara, Khiva, Samarkand, Tashkent

Highlights

Central Asia is a fascinating and unique mix of ancient Silk Road culture, post-soviet culture and striving to redefine nations post independence. Geographically and for a time historically, it is the real centre of Asia
The much-photographed Registan in Samarkand is one of the true pinnacles of Islamic architecture. You'll be wowed by the scale, grandeur and beauty of the monuments to iconic figures such as Tamerlane and the Persian influenced madressas, mosques and mausoleums
Experience for yourself the legend that is Central Asian hospitality - there's really nothing like being welcomed into a local home or yurt for a meal, chatting with stall holders at bazaars or simply marvelling at the sights alongside locals
Kyrgyzstans mountains are its monuments and its majesty. The landscapes here will stay with you long after the journey is over
Marvel at the beautiful Son-Kol Lake, where in mid-summer you may see flocks of sheep, goats and herds of horses watched over by nomadic herdsmen and their families

Themes

Cultural, High Adventure

What travelers are saying

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-26%$8,951

26 days From$6,630

Health Safety +

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15-Day Central Asia Immersion of Five Stans

By China Highlights

Local Expert

Verified by Travelstride as locally operated and in the top of their field for customer reviews, local knowledge, and safety.

5/5 Excellent

Private Guided

Lodging level

Premium - 4 star

Physical level

Easy

Trip pace

Full schedule

Visits

Bukhara, Hahone , Kazakhstan, Khiva, Samarkand

Highlights

Enjoy breathtaking views of the snowcapped mountains and stunning waterfalls at the Ala Archa National Park.
Enjoy a glass of champagne with a boat ride on Issyk-Kul Lake.
Admire the splendor of the monuments and ancient blue-tiled mosques in Samarkand and Bukhara.
Wander through the narrow mudbrick alleyways in Khiva and discover the locals' lifestyles.
Camp at the Darvaza gas crater and enjoy a fire-cooked meal.

Themes

Culinary & Wine, Cultural, Nature & Wildlife, Religious

What travelers are saying

"I've just returned from my trip to China, a week ago. I've seen many-many interesting places of Guangdong and Guangxi provinces. But most of all i liked my 2-days trip to Longshen villages with my guide Frank from chinahighlights. The day before our trip has started, in Guilin, Frank met me in hotel and told about our journey. Next 2 days we visited traditional ancient chinese villages (the biggest from them are Ping'an and Dazhai), walking around them, saw the rice-terraces landscape (it was really unbelievable). Also we had a hiking between villages, and stayed at night at ZhongLiu village. I haven't seen any tourists in this village, even chinese tourists. It was fantastic cause we've seen real chinese life of local people, including, for example, planting vegetables, collecting tea). Very quiet, fresh air, natural food. Yes, in this village almost no shops, no souvenirs, but you dont need them. All around you a hundred times better. I advice all, who wants to see real chinese life, visit this place, especially this village, stay at night there. Thanks very much to my guide Frank and chinahighlights for this trip!"

By Overseas Adventure Travel (O.A.T. Tours)

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-19%$7,134

15 days From$5,800

Generous cancellation

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NEW The Stans of Central Asia: Turkmenistan & Uzbekistan

none

4.9/5 Excellent

Group Tour

Lodging level

Standard - 3 star

Physical level

Very Easy

Trip pace

Balanced schedule

Visits

Samarkand

Highlights

Enjoy an exclusive glimpse into the archives of the Savitsky Museum
Visit the opulent 18th-century Bolo Hauz Mosque and the Chashma Ayub Mausoleum
Visit with a local ceramic master and learn about the centuries-old traditions of this ancient art form.
Exploring Samarkand, one of the oldest cities in the world
Including by the troops of Alexander the Great, the Arab Caliphate, and Genghis Khan.

Themes

Cultural, Local Immersion & Homestays

What travelers are saying

"This letter is effectively what was communicated no less than 8 times in writing and conversation to OAT representatives up the chain, beginning 19 days before the trip. OAT was IMMOVABLE on allowing us to find an alternative travel companion and it was 100% due to rigid policy, not real barriers. We never expected a refund and wouldn't have blamed them if we could not fill my spot. They refused to even give us the opportunity. Appalling and sadly representative of their customer service. Congratulations, you lost two customers and one long time referral source. I only think it is fair that folks know the nature of the company at this point. An absolute shame. As a dedicated Edmund Hillary member of OAT with a history of introducing countless friends to your service including 4 who booked trips, I am writing to express my deep concern over the handling of our Galapagos trip booking in light of a recent medical emergency. This situation not only highlights significant gaps in customer communication and care but also underscores the need for immediate, effective action. Timeline of Events and Communication Issues: Initial Contact on 11/22: We contacted OAT 19 days before the trip, scheduled for 12/11, as soon as it became clear that extended surgical complications would prevent my travel. Policy of No Refunds or Changes Under 30 Days: We were informed that the trip is non-refundable under 30 days, which is understood. However, OAT also refused to allow a replacement traveler, posing zero risk to the company. Both of us called, met with the same response. Response from Exceptions Department on 11/22: The no-change policy was reiterated by the Exceptions Department on the same day. Written Escalation on 11/22: Both parties sent written letters to escalate the matter. Delayed Response Until 11/29: We did not receive any response until 11/29, with OAT mentioning the inability to make changes 12 days before the trip. Policy vs. Practical Reasons: The response seemed more policy-based than practical. We offered to cover the cost for a replacement traveler for the internal Galapagos flight, which was declined. The rep always returned to the policy prohibiting it. She further added we do not sell trips within 30 days. Upon looking the next day, I found no less than 7 different itineraries with no less than 13 different trips that I could have booked within 30 days. Further Escalation Request and Conversation on 11/30: A further request for escalation resulted in a 23-minute conversation on 11/30 without any change. Given these circumstances, I propose the following practical solution: Future Travel Credit in Exchange for Re-Selling My Space: If finding a substitute traveler is unfeasible, I suggest OAT resell my space to another interested party, crediting me for a future trip. This solution aligns with my preference and ongoing loyalty to OAT. The lack of a constructive response and rigid adherence to policy without considering exceptional circumstances is alarming. It not only affects this immediate trip but also impacts my ability to continue advocating for OAT in good conscience. An amicable and prompt resolution to this issue would speak volumes about OAT's commitment to customer satisfaction and flexibility. Unless there is a prompt and constructive resolution to this matter, we will be forced to escalate our concerns further. This includes reaching out to higher management within OAT, engaging with consumer protection agencies, sharing our experience through travel forums, and social media for breach of service. Our preference is to resolve this amicably, yet the current trajectory leaves us little choice but to pursue these avenues. I implore you to seriously consider these options and respond in a manner that reflects OAT's values of empathy and customer support. Your immediate attention to this matter is not only appreciated but necessary for a resolution that respects both parties' interests. Thank you for your understanding and prompt attention to this critical issue."

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16 days From$5,995

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The Silk Road Aboard the Golden Eagle & Shangri-La Express

By GeoEx

preferred

5/5 Excellent

19 reviews

Small Group Tour

Lodging level

Luxury - 5 star

Physical level

Easy

Trip pace

Balanced schedule

Visits

Beijing, Moscow, Samarkand, Terra Cotta Warriors, Xian

Highlights

4,000 miles along the Silk Road between Moscow and Beijing, with Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan and Kazakhstan
Ride camels in the Gobi Desert, marvel at the Terracotta Warriors, and soak up Islamic architecture in Khiva
Opt for an abridged 13-day trip aboard the Golden Eagle from Moscow to Almaty (or reverse)

Themes

50 plus, Cultural, Train & Rail Journeys

What travelers are saying

"I have had a couple great travel experiences through GeoEx. My first trip, she helped book my travels to Ireland for my brothers wedding. She did a great job coordinating hotels with other family members and planning my entire trip including events, dinners, transportation, etc."

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21 days From$24,959

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Along Central Asia’s Silk Road

By Odysseys Unlimited

none

5/5 Excellent

50 reviews

Small Group Tour

Lodging level

Luxury - 5 star

Physical level

Easy

Trip pace

Balanced schedule

Visits

Kazakhstan, Samarkand

Highlights

White marble city of Ashgabat
UNESCO archaeological sites of Nisa and Kunya Urgench
Historic walled city of Khiva
Visits with local artisans
Extensive Bukhara touring

Themes

Cultural, Local Immersion & Homestays

What travelers are saying

"We just finished our Tanzanian Adventure tour to Tanzania and Zanzibar. It was a dream come true trip! On safari, our guide Augustine, was stellar, and our driver, Meshak was wonderful! The lodges on safari were wonderful, food excellent. The Breezes resort on Zanzibar was lovely and the Indian Ocean is sooooo warm! Thank you, Odyssey, for delivering on all counts!"

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17 days From$5,794

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Ashgabat, Turkmenistan to China

By African Trails

none

5/5 Excellent

10 reviews

Group Tour

Lodging level

Camping

Physical level

Moderate

Trip pace

Balanced schedule

Visits

Beijing, Xian

Highlights

Turkmenistan - Letter of Introduction support and fees, Ashgabat, Darvaza Gas Craters
Uzbekistan - Historic cities; Khiva, Bukhara & Samarkand
Kazakhstan - Aksu-Dzhabagly Nature Reserve
Kyrgyzstan - Ala-Archa Nature Reserve, Lakes Issyk-Kul, Semenovskre Gorge, Yurt Stay by Lake Song Kol, Tash Rabat Caravanserai
China - Chinese guide, Letter of Introduction & fees, Jiaohe Ruins, Maogao Caves, Boat Buddha Caves at Bingling Si, Labrang Tibetan Monastery, Huanglong National Park, Chengdu Giant Panda Breeding Centre, Terracotta Army

Themes

Cultural, National Parks, Nature & Wildlife, Overland Journeys

What travelers are saying

"Who said you can not enjoy a long Overland Safari? I had a wonderful time during the 7 month Trans Africa. Part of the West cost of Africa was a challenge which I will remember for a long time. The scenery and wildlife from Namibia onwards was breathtaking. The younger generation on the truck gave me the challenge to do things I always was to scared to do in my live. I did tandem skydiving, quad bike riding in the sand dunes, white water rafting on the Zambezi river, bungy jumping of the Victoria Bridge and the micro light flight over the Victoria Falls. Our driver Brian was excellent and a good mate. All in all I can recommend the tour to people who like something more exciting than a standard organised tour. A truly memorable experience of a lifetime."

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62 days From$3,532

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Nile Cruise

By Exodus Travels

premier

4.7/5 Excellent

Small Group Tour

Why we love them

With a huge range of trip styles and themes, they cater to basically every type of traveler out there- even those with super specific interests.

Lodging level

Standard - 3 star

Physical level

Moderate

Trip pace

Balanced schedule

Visits

Abu Simbel, Aswan, Cairo, Luxor

Highlights

Visit the pyramids
Explore ancient temples and tombs
Cruise on the Nile
Enjoy the laid back atmosphere of Aswan

Themes

Cultural

What travelers are saying

"Discover Costa Rica is a great itinerary, covering varied habitats around the country and staying 2 nights each at 6 centres. Their birdwatching specials are led by local experts who really know their stuff."

By VBT Bicycling Vacations

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-43%$3,450

9 days From$1,950

Health Safety +

Generous cancellation

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New Zealand: The South Island

premier

4.6/5 Excellent

Group Tour

Why we love them

Their unique emphasis on immersive cultural experiences combined with active exploration with personalized cycling experiences.

Lodging level

Premium - 4 star

Physical level

Strenuous

Trip pace

Full schedule

Visits

Auckland, Christchurch, Queenstown

Highlights

Prepare to be dazzled by the staggering beauty of the South Island’s glittering lakes, lush forests, fertile farmlands, and alpine peaks.
Hike up a valley carved by the retreating ice of Franz Josef Glacier.
Spend a day at a wilderness resort, enjoying kayaking, canoeing, hiking—and perhaps strolling to a colony of glowworms.
Experience life on a working ranch and savor a home-cooked meal during a visit to a sheep and cattle station.
Sample local vintages during a wine tasting at a local estate.

Themes

Culinary & Wine, Cultural, Cycling & Biking, Hiking & Walking, Nature & Wildlife, Rafting, Kayaking, Canoeing

What travelers are saying

"This trip is unbelievably fantastic. Two of the best rides of my life, were on this tour. The guides were very good and this was just the start, when we met them, at the hotel in Cortina. Cortina was the site of the 1956 Olympics, and is a small pretty village. Nothing was open the two nights we were there, so probably bad timing. Hotel was a typical ski village hotel, good Italian/German food, and very comfortable. Second day of biking was up an old railroad spur that is now a ski trail about 15-20 K up to a mountain pass called Cimabanche Pass, which is beautiful. We rode up in a snow storm, then rain, then finally clear skies. This was the number two best ride of my life. Starting out from the hotel in Cortina, up the old spur, through single track bike trails, past babbling brooks, up to this fabulous mountain pass. This is now where the fun starts. Mostly downhill on paved roads very little traffic, at good speeds, through the most spectacular valleys you would ever see on a bike ride. Breathtaking. It had to end back at the hotel for a big dinner. The best ride of my life was the last biking day out of Merano. We were bused up 1500 K, about 85-90 miles to Lake Resia, high up in the Dolomites, then rode around the lake, down, back to Merano. High mountain peaks, many valleys,small towns, many grape growing farms, scenery, the best, and cool brisk weather. This was truly a great bike tour, one I will never forget. The trip is rated easy, but maybe easy/moderate is closer. The Hotel in Merano is excellent, middle of old town, modern, has a thermal bath, rooms were very good. The town of Merano is a must see if in the area, small, beneath the high mountains of the Dolomites, good restaurants, lots of tourists."

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9 days From$5,045

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Mexico Unplugged

premier

4.5/5 Excellent

Small Group Tour

Why we love them

They’re very committed to sustainable and responsible tourism and contribute to important initiatives like climate action.

Lodging level

Basic - 2 star

Physical level

Easy

Trip pace

Balanced schedule

Visits

Central America, Chichen Itza, Mexico City, Palenque, Playa del Carmen, San Cristobal

Highlights

Visit the community of San Pedro Tlahuac, home to Nahuatl descendants who practice traditions like chinampa farming, fiestas and ancient ceremonies.
Wander the stalls, snap some photos and pick up traditional handicrafts at the markets in Mexico City and Puebla.
Escape the Mexican heat in the highlands of San Cristobal de las Casas and explore surrounding villages where traditional customs and roots are thriving.
Explore the stunning Mayan temples of Palenque dating back to AD600 and stroll through Chichen Itza, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.
Finish off your epic journey and recharge with a little beach time in the beachside hub of Playa del Carmen.

Themes

Cultural, High Adventure, Local Immersion & Homestays

What travelers are saying

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-25%$2,230

15 days From$1,674

Health Safety +

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Great Italian Cities (Winter)

By Trafalgar

preferred

5/5 Excellent

Group Tour

Why we love them

Their travelers enjoy 24/7 travel expertise and dedicated service throughout the trips - everything is taken care of.

Lodging level

Premium - 4 star

Physical level

Easy

Trip pace

Balanced schedule

Highlights

Florence: Enjoy a local Tuscan Be My Guest dinner with Count Miari Fulcis on his 15th-century organic olive oil estate in the Tuscan hills, used as a location for many famous films like 'Room with a View' and 'Tea with Mussolini'.
Rome: Be inspired by the magnificence of Michelangelo and da Vinci at the Vatican Museums and enjoy an exclusive visit up the spiral staircase designed by the famous architect Donato Bramante in a part of the Vatican not open to the public.
Venice: Savour the vibrant atmosphere of Venice during a visit to a traditional food market in the shadow of the famous Rialto Bridge.
Rome: During an orientation with your Travel Director see the medieval buildings, Renaissance palaces and Baroque churches scattered throughout the city.
Assisi: With a Local Specialist, find out why the Basilica of St. Francis is considered to be one of the crowning artisitic achievements of 13th-century Europe.

Themes

50 plus, Cultural, Education / Learning

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-19%$3,260

10 days From$2,650

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Greece Panorama Adventure

By Greece Insiders

Local Expert

Verified by Travelstride as locally operated and in the top of their field for customer reviews, local knowledge, and safety.

5/5 Excellent

Private Guided

Why we love them

Designing original, innovative, and out-of-the-box travel itineraries and incredible personalized service.

Lodging level

Standard - 3 star

Physical level

Easy

Trip pace

Balanced schedule

Visits

Acropolis, Akrotiri, Archaeological Museum of Athens, Athens, Epidaurus, Heraklion, Meteora , Mycenae, Olympia, Santorini, Thessaloniki

Highlights

Cook and have lunch with a local family in the Peloponnese
Visit the most important archeological sites of Greece
Experience a speed-boat Private Tour at the sandy beaches of Crete
Hike the Caldera of Santorini
End your trip with a cruise witnessing the most famous sunset of Greece

Themes

Culinary & Wine, Cultural, Education / Learning, Family Friendly, Hiking & Walking, Photography, Scuba Diving

What travelers are saying

"Normally, I don't feel like writing reviews, but I felt compelled to do it for Athens Insiders. I made the decision to travel to Athens in the summer of 2012 in order to avoid the commotion that was predicted to result from the Queen's jubilee. As usual, my work kept me busy right up to the last minute, so I ran out of time to do anything fun for my week-long trip. I learned about this young group of tour guides for Athens and its vicinity from a friend. I had a wonderful experience. I got in touch with Daphne, who gave me email recommendations for Athens attractions to see, inquired about my preferences for local cuisine, and then devised an itinerary for my trip. In addition to visiting the typical suspects in Athens (Acropolis, etc.), I also chose to travel to Delhi and spend a night at a campground there. And I had a great time, honestly. We visited the attractions when there were few visitors and spent the busiest times outside of Athens rather than being herded around like cattle. I was taken to incredible tiny eateries (the well-known tavernas), marketplaces, and other regional shops."