Ancient architecture, Silk Road fables, stories of merchants, and traders, and life on the road entwined with remote mountain lakes, valleys of wildflowers, hikes through remote cobbled villages dotted with shepherds and their flocks – a journey through Uzbekistan and Kyrgyzstan is the perfect introduction to Central Asia.
Dusted in eye-popping cobalt, cyans, and sapphires, Uzbekistan has an incredible tangle of history to unravel and hidden sites to uncover. From its former Persian rule and key location along the famed Silk Road, to which it owes much of its grand architecture and culture, to a short period under Soviet rule, this jumble of traditions is a treasure trove waiting to be cracked open. We veer you through Uzbekistan’s great sites, mingle with their nomads, and cross into Kyrgyzstan – a land defined by its natural beauty. Soak in joyously unspoilt mountainscapes, stark craggy ridges, and rolling jailoos (summer pastures) which are brought to life by semi-nomadic, yurt-dwelling shepherds.
Download this tour’s PDF brochure and start your planning offline!
Signature Tour 
Welcome to Uzbekistan! Upon arrival at Tashkent airport, you will be met and transferred to your hotel. Uzbekistan is the proud home to a spellbinding infusion of architecture and ancient cities, all deeply intertwined with the bloody, fascinating history of the Silk Road.
Leave your luggage at your hotel and set off on your city tour. Visit the wonderful complex Khast Imam, located in the old part of the city which has been the largest centre of Islamic culture in Uzbekistan for thousands of years. Continuing, you will also visit Kukeldash Madrasah, the largest madrasah and one of the most famous historical monuments of Tashkent. You can also explore a local bazaar, Chorsu. This bazaar is one of the largest and most popular in the capital. Covered by seven domes tiled with coloured ceramic designs, mingle amongst the locals as they bargain and barter amongst themselves. Local farmers come from far and wide to sell products of their own production. Let your senses take over as you inhale the aromas of different Eastern spices, vegetables and fruits. Enjoy a BBQ lunch here, hot off the open flames as you sit amongst the locals.
Next, enjoy meeting a ceramist from Rishtan. Become acquainted with the full cycle of ceramic production – from the preparation of the clay to the manufacture of finished products and take part in our master class and get your hands dirty, as you learn from the locals.
This evening, enjoy a walking city tour as you visit Amir Temur Square, Sayilgoh Street, Romanov’s Palace (outside), Navoi Theatre Square and Independence Square. Afterwards, return to your hotel. (L,D)
Overnight – Hotel Manor or similar
Start your day with a morning flight from Tashkent to Urgench. You’ll be transferred to Khiva upon arrival for a comprehensive city tour.
Begin with Ata Darvaza, one of the four gates of Ichan Kala, dating back to 1842. You’ll then visit Madrasah Allakuli Khan, built in the mid-19th century, and known for its intricate decoration. Continue to Madrasah Muhammad Amin Khan, constructed between 1851 to 1854 by the order of Khiva’s ruler. Then Kalta Minar, which translates to “short,” was originally intended to be the tallest minaret in the East but remains incomplete. The tour also includes a visit to Kunya Ark, the “Old Fortress,” which served as the residence and inner citadel for Khiva’s rulers, founded in the 17th century. Explore Muhammad Rahimkhan Madrasah, erected in 1876 by Seyid Muhammad-Rahim II, also known as the poet Feruzshah. The 16th-century Juma Mosque, with its 213 elmwood pillars spanning different epochs, offers a glimpse into the city’s religious heritage. Tosh Hovli Palace, meaning “stone courtyard,” was built between 1830-1838 to replace Kunya Ark. The Islam Khodja Minaret and Madrasah ensemble, dating to the early 20th century, was funded by Prime Minister Isfandiar Khan.
Finally, visit the Pakhlavan Makhmud Mausoleum, the final resting place of a renowned 14th-century poet and wrestler. After the city tour, you will stay overnight at your hotel in Khiva. (B,L,D)
Overnight – Orient Star or similar
After breakfast, embark on a journey from Khiva to Bukhara by road (approx. 8-9 hours), or you may choose to fly. The drive takes you through the vast expanse of the Kyzylkum Desert, offering a unique glimpse of the arid landscapes that characterise this region. Upon arrival in Bukhara, you will transfer to your hotel for check-in. (B,L,D)
Overnight – Paradise Plaza or similar
After breakfast, you’ll set off for a full-day city tour, starting at the Labi Hauz complex, a beautiful spot featuring the Kukeldash Madrasah, Khanaka, and Nodir Divan-Begi, all centered around a picturesque reservoir that’s the heart of old Bukhara. From there, you’ll visit the Jewish Synagogue, a place of worship that’s been in use since the 16th century and is protected by the government.
Next, you’ll explore the Magoki Attori Mosque, which sits on the site of an ancient pre-Islamic temple. Stroll through the Trade Domes, where you can imagine the bustling activity of medieval merchants who once traded goods from across Central Asia and beyond. Discover the Bozori Kord Khammam, a historic sauna dating back to the 14th century, and the Abdullakhan Tim, a grand shopping passage built in the 16th century.
Your journey continues to the Ulugbeg Madrasah, the only surviving Timurid-era building in Bukhara, paired with the Abdulazizkhan Madrasah as part of a stunning architectural ensemble. You’ll also visit the Poi Kalyan complex, which includes the towering Kalyan Minaret, the Kalyan Mosque, and the Miri Arab Madrasah. Explore the Ark Fortress, the oldest surviving structure in Bukhara, and the Bolo Hauz Mosque, which dates to 1712. The Chashmai Ayub, linked to the biblical figure Job-Ayub, and the Ismail Samani Mausoleum, Central Asia’s oldest surviving Islamic tomb, provide further historical context. Finish your tour at Chor Minor, a unique building with four minarets, constructed in 1807. Finally, take a relaxing break at Retro Saloon Timur to enjoy some delicious herbal teas.
In the evening, you’ll have the chance to join in on preparing plov, a traditional Uzbek dish made with long-grain rice, tender lamb, onions, and carrots. It’s a hands-on experience where you’ll learn the secrets behind this beloved dish, also known as “pilaf” or “palov.” (B,L,D)
Overnight – Paradise Plaza or similar
After breakfast, depart for Samarkand, with a stop in Gijduvan. Your journey begins with a drive to Gijduvan, passing through Vabkent. Here, you’ll visit the Vabkent Minaret, a stunning example of local architecture dating back to 1196-1197. The minaret features a Kufic inscription on its lower decorative belt.
Continue your drive to Gijduvan, a small town located 46 km northeast of Bukhara. In Gijduvan, you’ll find remnants of historical architecture, including the Ulugbek Madrasah from the 15th century, although only the front part remains. You will also explore the Abd-al-Khalyk Gijduvani Mazar and learn about Gijduvan’s renowned ceramics and embroidery. The Narzullaev family, famous for their traditional silk embroidery on cotton fabric, continues this local craft.
Next, visit the ceramic workshop and the Museum of Ceramics established by the Narzullaev family to see some of the finest examples of local craftsmanship. Finally, you’ll head to the ruins of Rabat Malika Caravan Saray, a former fortress for travellers on the Great Silk Road. (B,L,D)
Overnight – Arka Boutique or similar
Explore the main attractions in Samarkand, starting with the Registan, a stunning plaza surrounded by three ornate, majolica-covered madrassas dating back to the 15th and 17th centuries. At Sherdor Madrassah, enjoy a mini-concert and a lecture about traditional national musical instruments.
Next, visit Gur Emir, the grand tomb of Timur (Tamerlane), the founder of the Timurid Empire. Continue your tour with the Shakhi Zinda necropolis, located in the northeastern part of Samarkand, and the Bibi-Khanym Mosque, one of the most significant monuments in the city.
In the Koni Ghil Village, explore a handicraft centre where you’ll learn about the ancient techniques of paper production, pottery, carpentry, and oil making, all following traditional methods. Finish your day with visits to the Afrosiyob Museum and Ulugbek Observatory to gain further insights into the region’s history and astronomical achievements. (B,L,D)
Overnight – Arka Boutique or similar
This morning, you will transfer to the train station to catch the Afrosiyob train (06:11-08:21) to Tashkent. Upon arrival, visit Akbar Rahimov’s workshop, where this master ceramist, from a long line of potters, revitalises ancient styles with modern designs. Enjoy a tea break with traditional oriental sweets.
In the evening, transfer to the airport for your flight to Bishkek. On arrival, you will be met at the airport and transferred to your hotel, located 40 km away, which takes about an hour. Spend the rest of the evening relaxing at the hotel, followed by dinner at a local restaurant. (B,D)
Overnight – Plaza Hotel or similar
Begin your day with breakfast before embarking on a city tour of Bishkek, including a visit to the vibrant Osh Bazaar. Enjoy lunch in Bishkek before transferring to the scenic Kemin Valley. En route, you’ll stop to explore the historic Burana Tower, remnants of an ancient city dating back to the 11th century.
Upon arrival in Kemin, settle into your accommodation at a cosy guesthouse. If time allows, take a hike to the panorama point (approximately 2 hours one-way, moderate difficulty) for a stunning view of the Chon-Kemin Valley. Horse riding is also available as an optional activity. Conclude the day with dinner and an overnight stay at the guesthouse. (B,L,D)
Overnight – Kemin guest house or similar
Depart the Kemin Valley and travel eastward toward Tepke, tracing the northern shore of Issyk-Kul Lake – Kyrgyzstan’s vast alpine inland sea, second in size only to Titicaca. The journey, largely on paved roads, reveals the rugged beauty and changing hues of the lake and surrounding ranges.
En route, stop at the Museum of Nomadic Civilisations, where exhibits explore the heritage, ingenuity, and lifeways of Central Asia’s nomadic peoples. Continue to the open-air Petroglyph Museum near Cholpon-Ata. Scattered across a high plateau, these Bronze Age carvings depict hunting scenes, animals, and ritual imagery – remnants of a prehistoric spiritual landscape.
There is the option today to take a one-hour boat excursion on Issyk-Kul, offering wide, uninterrupted views of the surrounding Tien Shan mountains reflected in the lake’s deep, mineral-rich waters.
Arriving in Tepke, visit a working farm known for its horse breeding program. Walk through the grounds to observe the animals and learn about the role of horses in Kyrgyz culture, both historically and today. Enjoy time to explore the farmstead before settling in for a home-cooked dinner. (B,L,D)
Overnight – Green Yard Hotel or similar
Depart early this morning for Karakol, a town shaped by a mix of Kyrgyz, Russian, and Dungan influences. Your visit begins at the bustling animal market – an authentic window into rural Kyrgyz life, where livestock is traded in the early hours in a scene largely unchanged for generations.
Following the market, enjoy a traditional Dungan breakfast of ash-lyanfu – a spicy, cold noodle dish brought to the region by Chinese Muslim migrants in the 19th century.
Later, set out on a walking tour through Karakol’s historic quarters. Visit the Russian Orthodox Church of the Holy Trinity, a timber structure built in 1895, and the Dungan Mosque, constructed without nails in 1910 and styled after a traditional Chinese temple. Conclude your city exploration at the Przhevalsky Museum, dedicated to the Russian explorer who charted vast areas of Central Asia in the 19th century and died near Karakol.
Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant before a traditional dinner hosted by a local family – an opportunity for cultural exchange and a deeper insight into daily life in eastern Kyrgyzstan. (B,L,D)
Overnight – Green Yard Hotel or similar
After breakfast, transfer to Jety-Oguz Gorge, which will take around 2 hours. From here, you have the option to start a moderate-level hike to Svetlaya Polyana Gorge, lasting approximately 3-4 hours. Enjoy a packed lunch at the top of a small pass. After the hike, meet the car and transfer to the southern shore of Issyk-Kul Lake. The day concludes with dinner and accommodation in a yurt camp in Tamga. (B,L,D)
Overnight – Issyk-Kul – Yurt camp
Start the day with breakfast before continuing your journey along the southern shore. En route, you’ll visit the village of Kyzyl-Tuu to observe traditional yurt production, witness an eagle hunting demonstration, and explore the striking “Fairy Tale” Canyon. Upon arrival in Kochkor, you’ll visit a felt workshop run by the local women’s community, “Altyn Kol,” where they craft beautiful felt products. The day concludes with dinner and an overnight stay at a hotel in Kochkor. (B,L,D)
Overnight – Nomad Lodge Hotel
Depart Kochkor after breakfast and travel towards Son-Kul Lake, set at 3,016 metres above sea level. This remote alpine basin is a key summer pastureland for nomadic herders, who migrate here with their families and livestock during the warmer months.
Today offers two ways to reach the lake. Travellers may transfer early to Kilemche, the starting point of a soft trek that takes around 4–5 hours across undulating pastures towards Son-Kul. Alternatively, for those preferring a more relaxed pace, a vehicle transfer to the lake is available, with time in the afternoon for walking and light hiking around the lake’s sweeping grasslands and seasonal yurt encampments.
Spend the night in a yurt camp beside the lake, a simple yet atmospheric base surrounded by expansive steppe and mountain views. (B,L,D)
Overnight – Son-Kul – Yurt camp
After breakfast, transfer to Bishkek with a lunch stop in Kochkor. Upon arrival in Bishkek, take some time to rest and refresh before dinner. Enjoy a farewell dinner at a local restaurant, with the option to include a Kyrgyz folklore program during the meal. (B,L,D)
Overnight – Plaza Hotel or similar
After breakfast, you have free time until your transfer to the airport for your onward flight. (B)
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**Please note that this tour can be organised on request for private departures.
* Pricing is subject to change at anytime until full payment has been received.
* A minimum of 4 adults is required to guarantee this departure.
A non-refundable deposit of $1000 AUD per person is required to secure your place. Final payment is due no later than 60 days prior to departure. Travel insurance is mandatory for travelling with Crooked Compass. For full terms and conditions, please click here.
Small group tours providing intimate connections to gain a deeper understanding and emotional connection to the community, tribes, cultures and lands explored.
Exploring the world’s most remote reaches and challenging destinations requires a high level of expertise which can only be learned from first-hand experience. We know because we go.
In an ever-changing global landscape of rules, regulations and restrictions, rest-assured you are being looked after by those in the know. Given the remote regions that we explore, our passengers safety is our top priority.
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This category of tours involves light trekking, walking, cycling, rafting or kayaking for a few hours each day with a small amount of inclines and declines. You will require a reasonable level of fitness and good health to participate. It is important to note that due to the nature of some of our trips, they may take place in remote areas (with basic facilities) and can involve long travelling days on various modes of transport.
Suggested preparation : At least 3 months prior to departure, it is recommended that you undertake aerobic exercise (this may include jogging, cycling or fast walking) for 30 minutes, three times a week. It is also advised to walk on variable terrain and in variable weather conditions. For a cycling adventure, road cycling twice a week is recommended and for adventures which involve paddling and kayaking, it is important to gain confidence and rhythm rather than speed prior to departure.
This category of tours involve trekking, kayaking and cycling for period of 6 to 8 hours a day at a fairly consistent pace. Ideal for people looking to slightly increase the heart rate. For our moderately rated tours, you must have a good level of fitness and also be in good health. It is also important to be prepared for variable weather conditions. Altitude may also come into play. This category of tours may involve visiting remote areas where facilities can be quite basic. Accommodation may also involve camping, homestays or basic accommodation where facilities may not be considered of western standards. To enjoy this style of travel, it is suggested for travellers to have a reasonable level of fitness and health, a positive attitude, as well as a fairly active lifestyle. An open mind is also required.
Suggested preparation: At least 3 months prior to departure, it is recommended that you undertake 45mins – 1 hour of aerobic exercise, three to four times a week. Some potential exercises that could be beneficial include hill walking with a backpack on over variable terrain and weather conditions, as well as running and cycling dependent on the activity you plan on undertaking.
This category of tours involves trekking, kayaking, cycling or other adventure activities in remote areas for up to 8 to 10 hours a day. It is important to note that with the remoteness of some regions comes a variety of other challenges such as variable weather conditions, accommodation as well as facilities. You must have an excellent level of fitness and good health to be able to partake in this category of tour. You must have confidence in your own ability and be in good physical condition. Includes extended periods of endurance.
Suggested preparation: At least 3 to 4 months of strenuous exercise, four times a week. When preparing for treks it would be beneficial to participate in hill walks with a weighted day pack (approximately 5-8 kg) once a week for aerobic fitness and strengthening of leg muscles. It is also important to do this on variable terrain to prepare for challenging adventures. When preparing for cycling adventures, regular bike riding (at least 4 to 5 times a week for 1-4 hours is essential). It is also important to cycle on uneven surfaces or even participate in other aerobic exercises such as running or swimming to build up strength and stamina. Altitude may also be a factor in these tours.
This category of tour often involves extreme trekking, cycling or other extreme adventure activities. It is important to expect remote and poorly defined tracks and to be prepared for variable weather conditions for 10 to 12 hours per day (may sometimes be more depending on weather and altitude). These adventures are suitable for travellers who have prior experience in strenuous travel and activities, are extremely fit and have excellent health. It is also important to note that some of the terrain on these adventures will involve trekking in snow, at high attitude levels and may require technical equipment.
Suggested preparation: It is important to note that physical fitness should be an ongoing activity, commencing around 5-6 months prior to departure, or even before if you have no prior fitness. Exercise should focus on building maximum endurance and stamina. Four to five hard sessions of 40-60 mins per week should be completed and can include exercises such as going to the gym, running, swimming or cycling to focus on building aerobic stamina. It could also be beneficial to prepare by hiking on rough terrain, in extreme weather conditions or partake in altitude training.
Our Signature Tours are the cornerstone of the Crooked Compass journey: meticulously designed small-group itineraries that balance authenticity, comfort, and ease. These are destinations where travel can be complex—from navigating evolving logistics to reaching places far from the usual tourist path—yet our expertise ensures your experience feels smooth, effortless, and deeply rewarding.
From the moment you arrive, every detail is handled with care. You’re welcomed personally on arrival and met for a private transfer to your accommodation, where you’ll join the rest of your group. Your guide will walk you through an orientation, helping you understand the rhythm of the journey ahead and settling you in with clear, practical insights from the very start.
Accommodation is selected for both comfort and character, reflecting the richness of its locality through thoughtful design, creative ingenuity, and a genuine sense of place. Whether it’s a boutique property, a sustainable lodge or a homestay, each choice is made to connect you meaningfully with the destination.
Cultural integration sits at the heart of our approach. Every itinerary is crafted with respect for local communities, aligning sensitively with their values and protecting the authenticity of their culture. Through this, travellers experience a deeper connection —stories shared firsthand, traditions encountered in their true context, and moments that shift perspectives long after returning home.
With a maximum of 12 travellers and our most trusted local partners, you explore with confidence, guided by teams who combine deep regional knowledge with an intuitive understanding of Western traveller expectations. Through the powerful medium of storytelling, our journeys inspire personal reflection and spark genuine emotion, turning travel into something transformative.
For travellers seeking even more flexibility or personalisation, our Tours By Design journeys are crafted with the same care — mindfully designed around your interests for a more tailored experience.
Why travellers love our Signature Tours:
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Our Founders Tours are rare, one-of-a-kind journeys personally hosted by Crooked Compass founder, Lisa Pagotto. Designed for the traveller who seeks more than just adventure, these exclusive small-group expeditions uncover places few have ever seen – experiences not featured in our regular collection, chosen for their depth, beauty, and story.
Each itinerary is hand-crafted by Lisa to offer meaningful connection and unique access built through years of trust and collaboration with local communities. Travelling alongside her gives you an unparalleled perspective into the world of ethical exploration – from the behind-the-scenes partnerships that shape our journeys, to the human stories that inspire them.
With an intimate group size and seamless support from our expert team, a Founders Tour is less a trip, and more a masterclass in discovery.
Why travellers love Founders Tours:
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Set sail on a rare journey across remote islands, wild coastlines, and untouched ecosystems aboard a small, luxury expedition vessel. Travelling by sea unlocks access to places few travellers ever reach – from isolated villages and pristine reefs to dramatic landscapes that can’t be accessed by land – while each evening, you return to the comfort of your beautifully appointed cabin.
These voyages blend adventure with refinement. Expert-led excursions bring you face-to-face with raw nature and vibrant cultures, while exceptional onboard dining, service, and comfort allow time to unwind and reflect.
To complete your experience, Crooked Compass can seamlessly craft pre- or post-cruise land extensions, ensuring your journey flows effortlessly from sea to shore.
Why travellers love our Expedition Cruises:
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Our Tours by Design experiences are private journeys curated exclusively for you by the Crooked Compass team. Whether you’re drawn to one of our existing itineraries, wish to adapt a small-group tour for private travel, or want to design something entirely new, we’ll craft a journey that reflects your pace, passions, and sense of discovery.
Why pay for inclusions that don’t fit? With Tours by Design, every detail is intentional – from the destinations and experiences to your style of travel and choice of accommodation. Each itinerary is hand-built through our deep local partnerships and expertise, ensuring authenticity, comfort, and connection in every moment.
Why travellers love Tours by Design:
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Our Partner Tours are carefully chosen group journeys operated by our long-standing, in-country partners — experts who share our values of authenticity, cultural respect, and meaningful connection. These departures, averaging between 17 and 22 travellers, are designed and delivered by our partners, while Crooked Compass manages your booking and provides full support from start to finish.
Enjoy the reassurance of booking through an Australian-based company, delivering our same personalised service and attention to detail you expect from Crooked Compass. We take care of the logistics, so you can focus on what matters most – the journey itself.
Why travellers love our Partner Tours:
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