The Silk Road south in 7 days

Ancient cities, mausoleums and spring tulips.

1. Day 1Train or flight to Shymkent. Evening at the bazaar.
2. Day 2Sairam and the mausoleums, then on to Zhabagly village.
3. Day 3Guided hike in Aksu-Zhabagly reserve.
4. Day 4Aksu canyon in the morning, drive to Turkestan.
5. Day 5Mausoleum of Khoja Ahmed Yasawi, evening in the old quarter.
6. Day 6Arystan Bab, Otrar and Sauran.
7. Day 7Train to Taraz: Aisha Bibi and Akyrtas, then train back to Almaty.

Each stop has its own detailed page in the routes section. Build in a spare day for weather or long drives.