Why Should I Take a Central Asian Vacation?

The mysteries and enchantments of Central Asia have been dismissed from the adventure traveling spotlight for far too long.  A child of learned survival, ancient economic passageways, and a wandering spirit, adventure and otherworldly appeal is this region’s birthright.  Here are 6 reasons why you should set your sights to “Destination Asia”:

EXPLORE THE SILK ROAD

Take a tour of Central Asia along some of the most ancient trade routes known to man. This 2,000 year old trade route originally received its name for the Chinese silk that traveled its highways, but it also carried cultural, religious, and philosophical ideas from the East to the West.  Winding its way through Tajikistan, Kyrgyzstan, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan, Afghanistan and Kazakhstan, this is a perfect destination in Asia for students of history, cultural exchange, and ancient economic development.

MEET NOMADIC FAMILIES

Nomads aren’t just a part of history books and characters in ancient stories; they roam the plains and mountains of Central Asia to this day.  Travel to Asia and book a tour to visit traditional nomadic families.  Learn about their way of life.  Bask in the generosity of their hospitality. Culture travelers won’t find a more authentic cultural experience than this.

WANDER AROUND ANCIENT CITIES

The region of Central Asia houses a plethora of ancient cities containing the remnants of history long past, but not forgotten.  Visit Samarkand, the capital of Tamerlane’s empire in Uzbekistan, Kabul, Merv, Bukhara, and the list goes on.  The appeal and vibrant life within these cities hasn’t been lost for thousands of years.  Take a Central Asian guided tour and see why they’ve been a permanent fixture in this part of the world for ages.

SOAK IN THE SCENERY

The Central Asian landscape makes it a travel destination in Asia all by itself.  Bring your camera and book a tour for an adventure that will take your breath away.  The sheer variety of terrain directly mirrors the diversity of people groups in the area.  Whether it’s the Steppe in Kazakhstan, pristine alpine lakes of Kyrgyzstan, stark deserts in Turkmenistan, or staggering rings of mountains in Tajikistan, travelers will experience the beauty and harsh conditions that shape the lives of people groups that call this region home.

HAGGLE IN OPEN AIR MARKETS

Travel in Central Asia and visit markets that have been thriving for thousands of years.  It’s a bargain hunter’s paradise.  Navigate these sellers’ cities and enjoy the smell of fragrant spices, dried fruit, nuts, grains, clothing, instruments, traditional handcrafts, souvenirs, carpets, and so much more than you could ever imagine.

TRAVEL THE PAMIR HIGHWAY

Tackle the world’s second highest international highway.  Parts of the Pamir Highway top out at over 15,000 feet (4,500 meter) elevation, transporting its travelers among mountain peaks and clouds.  Running from Osh, Kyrgyzstan to Dushanbe, Tajikistan, this highway is a perfect destination for motorcyclists and bikers looking for an adventure in Central Asia that combines the thrill of a challenge with an exquisite location.

Central Asia holds something for everyone: beauty to stun the photography lover, history for people fascinated with the ones who came before, culture for the traveler seeking new perspectives, and adventure for those who have never seen enough.