Turkestan Gloriously Isolated - Day Tour from Tashkent
Kazakhstan
The largest mausoleum in all of Central Asia. In addition, the mausoleum is the only one that includes all the rooms in an enclosed space. Central Asian "Venice" and 8K Cinema in "Golden Egg" complex.
Highlights
- Turkestan
- Shymkent
- 8K Cinema
- Venice Avenue
- Golden Egg Complex
Description
This guided tour covers the route from Tashkent, Uzbekistan to Shymkent and Turkestan, Kazakhstan, crossing the Uzbekistan-Kazakhstan border along the way. The total distance is approximately 300 km (130 km from Tashkent to Shymkent and 170 km from Shymkent to Turkestan).
Tashkent: You will be picked up from your hotel, airport, or train station and transferred to the Uzbekistan-Kazakhstan border. After crossing the border, you meet your Kazakh driver and begin the journey. Along the way, you may see camels and try mare's milk depending on the season.
Shymkent: One of Kazakhstan's oldest cities, Shymkent has a history of at least 800 years. It was a stop on the Great Silk Road and has a rich cultural heritage. It is currently the second most populous city in Kazakhstan and the administrative center of South Kazakhstan region. You will make a photostop at the Friday Mosque, the main mosque in Shymkent.
Turkestan: Visit the Yassawi Complex, the largest mausoleum in Central Asia and a significant spiritual site. This enclosed mausoleum houses the tomb of a renowned Sufi spiritual leader. You will also see the mausoleum of Rabiyabegim, the pre-Mongolian underground mosque, the Caravanserai, and the new Friday Mosque. Camel rides (two-humped camels) are available at an extra cost. Lunch at a local restaurant is also optional.
After exploring the historic complex, visit the new part of Turkestan, including Central Asia’s 'Venice' avenue, a place to rest. You can also visit the 8K Cinema located in the Golden Egg Complex, which provides comprehensive information about Kazakhstan’s history.
Photography services are offered featuring eagles and traditional Kazakh nomad dresses.
Return to Tashkent: On the way back, there are stops for photos of green camps (best in April-May), farms, and livestock.
What Is Included
- Professional guide
- Vehicle with air conditioning
- All transfers in both Uzbekistan and Kazakhstan
Not Included
- Entrance tickets to monuments
- Lunch and dinner
- Other personal expenses not mentioned in the program
Important Information
- Recommended restaurants: Sandyq, Navoiy, Karavan Saray, Wow Plow
- Budget for lunch: 12-20 USD per person minimum
- The currency exchange rates are similar on both sides of the border
- Camel rides in Turkestan are available at extra cost
- The vehicle changes at the border; there is one driver in Uzbekistan and another in Kazakhstan
- The operator is not responsible for weather conditions
Cancellation Policy
Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Booking Tip
Book in advance to secure a professional guide and vehicle with air conditioning. Bring your passport for border crossing, and consider packing for variable weather conditions. The best time to visit is spring, especially April and May, for green landscapes and camel sightings.
