Central Asia Adventure: Astana to Ashgabat

This is a totally epic 37-day adventure through Central Asia – a region combining Silk Road history, Soviet influence, nomadic living and scenic natural beauty. Journey from the shining capital of Astana to the whitewashed Ashgabat, taking your time to savour the nuances of different Stans along the way. Come face to face with the iconic architecture, rub shoulders with locals in the bazaars, stay in yurt camps and stand in front of the ever-burning crater - ‘The Gates of Hell’. Experience life well off the tourist track and explore a region that’s been the confluence of so many cultures and people throughout history – all with highly experienced local leaders by your side. This trip covers a lot of ground in an epic 37-day journey. It is for those who are keen to travel in depth in the region and understand each country through a variety of destinations rather than only ticking off the iconic sites. It’s suitable for experienced travellers who want see an unknown part of the world. You’ll need to be reasonably fit to enjoy this epic adventure.In true adventure style, the trip involves some long travel days by private vehicle. The road may be bumpy and dusty, but the experience and the journey will be rewarding. This is a great opportunity to sit back, unwind and let the sweeping views roll by. Drives range from 3 to 10 hours in duration. Though the longer travel days and single-night overnight stays can be tiring, you'll be in a private vehicle for the majority of the trip, and much of the scenery in this part of the world is simply stunning.You’ll experience varying temperatures in the desert and out on the steppe or in the mountains from below zero to over 40 ºC, so check the weather forecast online before you visit and pack accordingly.Tourism is strictly controlled in Turkmenistan, with Letters of Invitation needed in advance in order to apply for your visa (which you can then get on arrival) and guides tending to be protective of what tourists see and fiercely proud of their nation and its leaders. You are not allowed to travel on your own without a guide while you are in Turkmenistan either. Those used to more freedom of exploration and tour guides with a more global perspective may find their experience here different from in other destinations. Please see the ‘Passport and visas’ section of the Essential Trip Information for more details.Be prepared to experience the full legacy of the Soviet era – not just in the sights and history, but also in the standards of accommodation and service! A range of different accommodations are used on this trip, including yurt camp, home stay, guesthouse, hotels and camping. The conditions at the yurt stays and the home stays are basic with shared facilities. This means the group being split between different houses, multi-share rooms/yurts and the bathroom facilities are separated from your sleeping quarters. You won't be able to take a shower every day on this trip.This trip is a combination of 3 trips. Please review the Itinerary for details of when your fellow travellers and leader will change.