Overview

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The exotic sights and sounds at the heart of Eurasia have long drawn adventurous souls. It is here that ancient kingdoms arose on the sites of oases along the lucrative caravan routes of the silk and spice trade between the empires of the East and West. Some, such as Samarkand and Bukhara, have persisted over the centuries, retaining some of their former glory. Others, like Merv and Afrosiab, overrun by invading armies, have slowly receded into the desert.




In Samarkand, discover the legacy of Tamerlane (Timur the Great) who gathered the finest architects, builders and artisans of the time to enhance its beauty. Venture outside the city to the observatory of Uleg Bek, his grandson who was one of the most sophisticated astronomers of the 15th century, and stop at Shakhrisabz, the birthplace of Timur.

From the heart of the old town to the Kalyan Mosque and its imposing minaret, spend two full days exploring Bukhara, Central Asia’s most ancient living city. Drive across the Kyzyl Kum Desert along the ancient Silk Road to the walled city of Khiva. See well preserved examples of Islamic architecture including the carved wooden pillars at the Dzhuma (Friday) Mosque.

Cross into Turkmenistan and head to Kunya-Urgench, the ancient seat of Central Asian civilization. Outside the capital of Ashkabat explore the ruins of the five ancient cities of Merv whose remains continue to provide information about the evolution of urban centers, and Nisa archeological site, the capital of the Parthian Empire. History provides insight into the present as you dine in the home of an Uzbek family, meet a local artist, observe silk carpet weaving, and discover the cultural diversity along the ancient Silk Road.