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Kazakhstan/Kyrgyzstan/Uzbekistan/Tajikistan/Turkmenistan

On the Silk Road in Central Asia

Program No. 18766RJ
Join experts to discover the preserved ruins, grand cities and cultural monuments that line the Silk Road, discovering how this ancient trade route altered the course of human history.

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At a Glance

Two thousand years ago, caravans of pack animals and traders followed a route west from their home in China over the steppe of Central Asia and into the fertile valleys of Europe, bringing with them silk, porcelain and spices. When adventurous Europeans traveled the Silk Road in the opposite direction, they came back with knowledge that changed the destiny of Western Civilization. Experience the history, culture and people that link the living cities and ancient ruins lining the Silk Road.
Activity Level
Let's Go!
Walking 2-4 miles per day on sidewalks, streets, packed dirt, and cobblestones. Some stairs, with/without handrails. Standing up to two hours at a time. Several long travel days up to 8 hours driving. Multiple border crossings, some may require traveling a relatively long distance on foot (up to ½ mile) while handling your own baggage without assistance. Elevations up to 9,000 feet (brief mountain pass).
Small Group
Small Group
Love to learn and explore in a small-group setting? These adventures offer small, personal experiences with groups of 13 to 24 participants.

Best of all, you’ll…

  • Share tea with a sixth-generation ceramics master and enjoy a private exploration of his studio.
  • Discuss archaeological excavations at the Bukhara Ark Citadel with a local specialist.
  • Enjoy a performance of Kyrgyz Manas folk tradition in Bishkek.

General Notes

Listening devices are not available for this program.
Featured Expert
All trip experts
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Timur Madaminov
Timur Madaminov has been working as a group leader since 2007. Being from Khiva, he knows all the corners of his country, Uzbekistan. Timur speaks English, Russian, and Turkish, as well as his native Uzbek. Timur is passionate about Silk Road history, and dabbles in antique collecting.

Please note: This expert may not be available for every date of this program.

Profile Image of Timur Madaminov
Timur Madaminov View biography
Timur Madaminov has been working as a group leader since 2007. Being from Khiva, he knows all the corners of his country, Uzbekistan. Timur speaks English, Russian, and Turkish, as well as his native Uzbek. Timur is passionate about Silk Road history, and dabbles in antique collecting.
Visit the Road Scholar Bookshop
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