We have been to many places – from the lively streets of Istanbul to the wild beaches of Bali. But no trip has left such a deep and multi-layered impression as a 19-day tour to Central Asian countries: Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan, Tajikistan and Turkmenistan. This was not just a trip, it was a cultural immersion, a visual shock, and a gastronomic surprise. What was also surprising – despite common stereotypes – is that the countries of Central Asia are diverse, inclusive and welcoming to all travelers, including the LGBTQ+ community. In this post we will share our trip with you.
Kazakhstan: a country of falcons and steppes
Our tour started in Almaty – a city where the peaks of the Zailiysky Alatau proudly rise among green parks and Soviet streets. Here we walked through Panfilov Park, visited the Zenkov wooden cathedral, tried dried fruits at the Green Bazaar and admired the view of the city from Kok-Tobe. We also visited Medeo and Shymbulak mountain resorts, where you can breathe in a new way. And the highlight of the day was a demonstration of falcon show. The atmosphere was magical.
Kyrgyzstan: a country of crystal lakes and mountains
The move to Bishkek was easy and picturesque – green pastures, snow on the mountains in the distance and bright sun. Bishkek itself is a quiet, cozy city. We liked its sights, especially an oriental bazaar with its delicacies and a bright Ala-Too square. But the most memorable sight was Issyk-Kul Lake. We spent some time by the water enjoying the view of the mountains reflected in the mirror-like surface. The highlight of it all was a hike to the Ala-Archa National Park, a land of gently sloping valleys and dense fir forests.
Uzbekistan: the heart of the Great Silk Road
When we arrived in Tashkent, a real journey through time began. Old monuments, bazaars, madrassas – everything breathes history. But the real magic was waiting in Samarkand and Bukhara. Those are historical cities that witnessed the days of the Great Silk Road. Uzbek cuisine impressed us the most – we have never tried such unusual dishes like pilaf with meat, samsa or laghman.
Tajikistan: a country of antiquity and untouched nature
Tajikistan is probably the most closed country, it was a new world that existed far from civilization. But it is no less interesting for tourists. Penjikent or so called “Central Asian Pompeii” deserves special attention. It surprised us with its ancient history and the warmth of the local people. After Penjikent we visited the Seven Lakes – a real pearl with unbridled, majestic nature. I can still see the turquoise expanse of one of the lakes, the silence, and the fresh air.
Turkmenistan: a country of deserts and gaz craters
In Turkmenistan, we were amazed by the cleanliness and orderliness of the city of Ashgabat built in white marble. But the most impressive was a visit to the Darvaza crater. You stand in the desert, and in front of you is a giant burning funnel. It hypnotizes. Sleeping in a tent next to it is not just an adventure, it is like a night on another planet.
Our journey ended as we returned to Uzbekistan and visited Khiva – an open-air museum city preserving a number of the best examples of the Islamic architecture of Central Asia. Time stood still here. We walked along the narrow streets of Ichan-Kala, touched the ancient walls, and went into mosques. It was the perfect ending.
Why is it worth going?
Central Asia is a region of rich cultures, unique history and mouth-watering delicacies. Here people still smile sincerely, the dishes smell of spices and real meat, and the mountains are like from fairy tales. Everything is real here: nature, architecture, and the people themselves. If you are looking for a trip unlike any other, Central Asia is for you. Just remember to free up some space on your phone – you’ll be taking pictures of everything, and every shot will look like a postcard.
