Uzbek and Turkmenistan Adventure 15 Days | Ashgabat, Turkmenistan to Tashkent, Uzbekistan

TRIP NOTES

Discover the highlights of • Khiva - admire the striking city walls • Guided tour of Ashgabat and visit to Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan on and take a guided tour of the Uzbek Kunye Urgench and the Darvaza Gas this 15 day overland adventure. See city including the turquoise Kalta Minor Crater in Turkmenistan Minaret and the palace of Tash Khovli • Guided tour of Khiva, Bukhara & the flaming Darvaza Gas Crater, • Bukhara - discover the gruesome past Samarkand in Uzbekistan marvel at the ruined city of Kunye of the Silk Road city including the Kalyan Urgench and enjoy a tour of the Minaret which is known as "Death Tower" What's Not Included bizarre capital of Turkmenistan - and opt to visit Zindon Prison • International flights and visas Ashgabat. Visit the Silk Road cities • Kyzylkhum Desert - camp in a traditional • Items of a personal nature, additional of Khiva, Bukhara and Samarkand yurt in the remote desert and perhaps meals and drinks take a camel ride across the rolling sand • Tipping - an entirely personal gesture in Uzbekistan, stay in a traditional dunes • Sleeping bag and roll mat - please bring yurt in the Kyzylkhum Desert and • Tashkent - end your adventure in your own for camping end your journey in the Soviet-style Uzbekistan's clean and modern Soviet- metropolis of Tashkent. style capital city Local Payment • Samarkand - visit the jewel in Timur's $660pp, paid in USD empire to see highlights including the HIGHLIGHTS AND INCLUSIONS breathtaking Registan Square and the DETAILED ITINERARY Trip Highlights ruins of the Bibi-Khanym Mosque Day 1 : Ashgabat • Ashgabat - enjoy a guided tour of What's Included Turkmenistan's capital city which is • 10 breakfasts, 3 lunches and 2 dinners known for its white marble architecture • 11 nights in hotels and bizarre buildings including the world's • 2 nights camping without facilities largest indoor Ferris wheel • 1 night in a traditional yurt camp • Darvaza Gas Crater - marvel at the • Airport arrival transfer on day 1 flickering fires of this incredible flaming • All necessary camping equipment crater, nicknamed the "Door to Hell" by (excluding sleeping bags) the locals • Transportation in an overland expedition • Kunye Urgench - explore the ruins of this vehicle Silk Road city in the Karakum Desert, Border Information: Joining in Ashgabat, • Services of two crew (drivers/tour leaders) which was spared by Genghis Khan you will most likely enter Turkmenistan at and local guides along the way during his invasion Ashgabat International Airport (IATA code: • Sightseeing as per itinerary ASB).

Uzbek and Turkmenistan Adventure - 15 Days updated on 01-10-2021 08:32:26 www.onthegotours.com This information has been compiled with care and good faith. They give an accurate illustration of the proposed arrangements for this holiday. Circumstances beyond our control such as changes in local conditions, inclement weather or other reasons could force us to make changes to UK 020 7371 1113 [email protected] this itinerary. Any costs shown are subject to change, though are an accurate reflection of costs at time of writing. Please also note that visa AUS 1300 855 684 [email protected] requirements are subject to change and are the responsibility of the traveller and not that of On The Go Tours. NZ 0800 44 77 69 CAN 1 866 890 7038 - 1 - USA 1 866 606 2960 SA 0800 990 311 TRIP NOTES

Uzbek and Turkmenistan Adventure

with the best of intentions, the drive times are Days 6-8 : Beautiful Bukhara There will be a pre-departure meeting at heavily dependent on traffic, road conditions, 10:00am - please look out for a note from weather, police roadblocks, and many other your leader at the reception of the joining factors - flexibility is essential on any overland hotel upon arrival with more details about trip). this important meeting. Your leader will need to carefully check your visas at this initial Accommodation: Camping without facilities meeting. After the meeting we have an Overnight - Darvaza - (camping without included tour of the city of Ashgabat using facilities) (B, L, D) local minibuses. In Ashgabat we stay in a decent quality local hotel. Day 3 : Kunye Urgench Today we continue our overland journey north On day 6 we have a full day's drive to the Important note: Any tobacco products across the Karakum Desert. We visit the fascinating city of Bukhara, where we’ll spend are practically illegal in Turkmenistan, so Kunye Urgench ruins towards the end of the the next three nights. The next day we have please do not bring them or use them day and camp in the deserts nearby. a guided tour of Bukhara and the surrounding in Turkmenistan. Also please do not bring area, including the Ismail Samani Mausoleum, any medicines containing tramadol, codeine, Estimated Drive Time: 6 - 7 hours Kalon Mosque, Zindon Prison and the Ark temazepam, morphine or opiates to Central Accommodation: Camping without facilities Fortress. Day 8 is free to further explore this Asia. These are illegal in all circumstances in Overnight - Kunye Urgench (camping incredible historic city and its surroundings. In most of Central Asia and you will risk arrest. without facilities) (B, L) Bukhara we stay in a comfortable local hotel. If in doubt about a particular medicine, please do not bring it. Days 4-5 : Khiva Estimated Drive Time (day 6): 8 - 10 hours Accommodation: Comfortable hotel Optional Activities Watch an entertaining evening puppet show, Overnight - Ashgabat featuring many local Uzbek and Tajik poems Day 2 : Darvaza Gas Crater - and songs - USD 5 The Door to Hell See the Indian-style Char Minar Minarets, four towers nestled in a maze of alleyways in downtown Bukhara - Free Visit the gruesome museum at the old prison of Zindon - UZS 4500 Border Information: Exit Turkmenistan at Accommodation: Basic hotel Shovot, enter Uzbekistan at Nijazov. Overnight - Bukhara On the morning of day 4 we visit the market in the border town of Dashoguz, before Day 9 : Nurata & the driving across the border into Uzbekistan. We Kyzylkhum Desert Today we set off north from Ashgabat and continue to the beautiful Silk Road city of head into the Karakum Desert. We have an Khiva. included side trip to the amazing flaming The next day we have a guided tour of Darvaza Gas Crater (also known as the 'Door ancient Khiva. Later, there’s plenty of free time to Hell'). We camp without facilities in the to further explore this wonderfully preserved desert near Darvaza Crater tonight. Khanate city. In Khiva we stay in a comfortable Estimated Drive Time: 5 - 6 hours (please hotel. note that all drive times given here are Estimated Drive Time (day 4): 4 - 5 hours the approximate number of hours that the Today we drive into the Kyzylkhum Desert truck will be in motion only, and does Accommodation: Comfortable hotel near the town of Nurata. In the afternoon not include any time taken for coffee or Overnight - Khiva (B:2) we have the opportunity to head out on an lunch stops, border crossings, photo stops, optional camel ride into the desert and we activities en route, comfort breaks, shopping spend the night staying in a desert yurt camp. stops, toilet stops, etc. The times given are approximate estimates only and whilst given

Uzbek and Turkmenistan Adventure

Estimated Drive Time: 4 - 6 hours free to explore the city independently or join available elsewhere, such as Nurofen! some of the optional activities available. In Please see here for more information Accommodation: Yurt Camp Tashkent we stay in a comfortable hotel with - http://sambuh.com/procedure-psychotropic- Overnight - Nurata (yurt camp) (B, L, D) good facilities. substances.html

Days 10-12 : Exploring Estimated Drive Time (day 13): 5 - 6 hours It is very important that you do not bring any Samarkand medications such as this - they will treat this Optional Activities as though you were bringing illegal narcotics Explore urbane Tashkent and experience a into the country. They are very strict about surreal cabaret dinner - Free this, and it does not matter if you are only Visit the nightclubs and Imperial Russian-style transiting through, and it makes no difference cabaret restaurants of Tashkent - Free if you have a prescription or a doctor's note Visit the religious centre of Tashkent at Hast - please do not bring these medications to Imam Square and see the Uthman Koran, Central Asia under any circumstance, as the believed to be the world's oldest extant copy customs agents know exactly what they are of the Koran - USD 5 looking for and the consequences could be Accommodation: Comfortable hotel huge, not only for yourself but for the tour On day 10 we spend some time exploring Overnight - Tashkent (B:2) leaders and especially for our local agents the Nurata Hills and you can opt for a dip and guides. in Lake Ajdar Kul. After lunch we drive to Day 15 : Tashkent Samarkand, where we will stay for the next Please note that we cannot take anyone on three nights. On day 11 we have a guided tour these trips who refuses to dispose of such of the historic city including the Registan, Ulug medicines or refuses to co-operate with the Beg Observatory, Bibi-Khanym Mosque and tour leaders if they need to inspect any Shah-I-Zinda. The next day is free to further personal medicines - thank you for your explore the beautiful city and its surroundings. understanding in this matter. In Samarkand we will stay in a good hotel on If you have any prescription medications that the outskirts of the city. do not come under the above list, please Estimated Drive Time: 4 - 5 hours bring the prescription along and declare the medicines on any customs declaration forms Today is the end day for passengers finishing Optional Activities throughout your trip. Visit to Shakhrisabz city - USD 20 their trip in Tashkent. Please note there Wander through the markets and carpet is no accommodation included on the trip Turkmenistan Note tonight - please contact the Sales team if vendors of Samarkand, and marvel at the Please note that any additional you are interested in booking extra nights of intricate craftsmanship of the local carpet accommodation in Turkmenistan must be accommodation in order to fully explore the weavers - Free booked through us due to the strict city. controls on foreigners in the country - Accommodation: Comfortable hotel it is essential that everyone is registered Overnight - Samarkand (B:3) Our partners immediately upon their entry to Turkmenistan This tour is operated by our trusted partner at accommodation booked by the agent on Days 13-14 : Tashkent and you will join travellers who booked your visa Letter of Invitation, as such it is through different operators, not solely On The not possible to independently arrange your Go. own accommodation here. It is also now Very important notice about compulsory for all passengers arriving into Turkmenistan through Ashgabat airport to be medications in Central Asia met on arrival by an official representative Please note that as of 2014 all medications from our local supplier and have a confirmed containing tramadol, codeine, temazepam, transfer to their hotel. For this reason, we morphine, opiates or any containing similar include an arrival transfer on day 1 for all tours constituent components have been made starting in Ashgabat. Please ensure that you illegal in Georgia, Azerbaijan, Turkmenistan On day 13 we have a little more free time provide us with your flight details so that you and Uzbekistan. This includes many over- to explore Samarkand. After lunch we drive are met upon arrival. the-counter medicines that are commonly to the Uzbek capital of Tashkent. Day 14 is

Uzbek and Turkmenistan Adventure

Please also note that there are strict laws These listings show our intention and on If your flight is delayed, please inform us as against tobacco products in Turkmenistan. most departures the listings will be accurate. soon as you can and then make your way to Whilst it is not yet completely illegal to However due to the flexible nature of the joining hotel as instructed in the Joining possess tobacco, it is strictly prohibited to overland itineraries, climatic, bureaucratic or Point section of these notes. smoke in any public place, is illegal to sell road conditions may demand changes to our Out of hours Number: +44 (0) 7985 106564 tobacco, and is illegal to import more than listed intentions or groups may simply decide 2 small packs of cigarettes. Breaking these to amend the plans from time to time. Overlanding Lifestyle laws even slightly can lead to large fines Overlanding is all about taking the road less and even detention in jail. To be safe, it Optional Activities travelled, seeing the real country as well as is highly recommended to simply not bring A selection of optional activities is listed in the highlights, and getting away from the the day-to-day itinerary. This list is designed any tobacco products into Turkmenistan and tourist trail. It’s all about the journey, not just avoiding their use entirely until you have left to be a helpful guide as to what is commonly the destination! the country. All the above also applies to available in each location, and is neither Overlanding is all about sharing a vaping, e-cigarettes, etc. Your crew may insist an exhaustive list, a guarantee that the great travelling experience with like-minded on such material being disposed of before activity is available, or an endorsement or people. On your trip you’ll travel in one of our entering through the country on the overland recommendation. Certain activities may not purpose-built iconic expedition vehicles on an truck, and your co-operation with this is both be available on your particular visit and it may off-the-beaten-track adventure along rugged appreciated and expected. not be possible to do all the activities listed in the time available at each destination. It is roads, experiencing the sights, sounds and Itinerary Disclaimer recommended to give yourself extra time in smells of the world up-close. Your journey The routes, activities and places visited your joining or ending city if you would like will be overland, sometimes across vast described in these notes are intentions and to participate in some optional activities there. distances, so some long days spent driving are meant as a rough guide only. By their Prices listed are for entrance only and do not are inevitable – but these will be interspersed very nature, overland itineraries need to include transport costs to and from the sites or with breaks of a day or two at a destination or be flexible and the regions that we are local guides unless indicated. The prices are activity. displayed according to our latest information travelling through are often unpredictable. On an overland journey, you are more than and in the best faith, but prices do fluctuate We intend to follow the planned route but just a passenger and everyone gets involved due to exchange rates, season, numbers of exact night stops and inclusions cannot be setting up camp – we supply the tent but it’s participants, and simple increases from the guaranteed and it sometimes happens that up to you to pitch it! As part of your trip, you operator, and therefore any prices listed are we decide to make a change to our planned will be assigned a truck job which could be a guide only and cannot be guaranteed. If itinerary. This may be for a variety of reasons; collecting firewood or water, luggage loading, you partake in any optional activities, you do climatic, road or bureaucratic conditions may organising food, stores, etc. Like all great so at your own risk and it must be clearly demand it. Changes to the itinerary may occur adventures, the more you put in the more understood that your participation is your with little notice so please be prepared for you'll get out! modifications to your trip. own decision and does not form part of your contract with us. You may be required to sign/ Meals & Group Participation Drive Times complete a waiver form or optional activity On an overland journey in Central Asia you Drive times are listed in the day-to-day form for some optional activities. are more than just an individual passenger - itinerary. These are the approximate number you're part of the team. You are expected to of hours that the vehicle will be in motion, and Emergency Contact pitch in to set up camp, shop for food, cook does not include any time taken for coffee Information and generally help out. As part of your trip you or lunch stops, border crossings, photo stops, In the event of a real emergency once you will be assigned a truck job which could be activities en route, comfort breaks, shopping have left your home country, please contact collecting water and firewood, sweeping out stops, toilet stops, etc. The times given are the out of office hours number below. If you the truck, loading the back locker, etc. While approximate estimates only and whilst given cannot get through on the phone, please camping on overland journeys, the meals are with the best of intentions, the drive times are leave a message with your name, reference included in the kitty. This means that you will heavily dependent on traffic, road conditions, number, contact details and a message with have to work together to cook for everyone weather, police roadblocks, and many other the help that you need and we will get back to in your group. You will be divided into smaller factors. you. Please bear in mind that real progress or units of 3-4 people and take it in turns to action may not be possible until normal office Accommodation and Meals Included cook for the whole group according to a rota hours, depending on the issue. The type of accommodation and included system. When it is your group's turn to cook meals are listed for each day of the itinerary. you will have to plan the meal, shop for the

Uzbek and Turkmenistan Adventure ingredients in local markets or supermarkets Prices can change with no notice and It is also customary to tip the local guides. and then prepare the meal for the whole exchange rate fluctuations will affect costs. We recommend USD1 to USD4 per person group. The secret to cooking for 20+ people Therefore the Local Payment/kitty amount can per day, but check with your crew for an using a basic camping kitchen is to keep it change and the price on our website includes appropriate amount. simple! a buffer to cover this. The actual amount you will be asked to pay locally may potentially For general tipping in restaurants and on An example of a typical camp breakfast might be less than the amount quoted on your tour excursions, it can be useful to hold on to be toast with spreads, fruit and cereal as well voucher/trip notes. your smaller notes and coins to make tipping as tea and coffee. When time allows it will also easier. be possible to serve something hot such as The kitty is payable in cash on Day 1 of eggs or pancakes. Lunch is almost always a your trip so remember to arrange to bring The Crew sandwich heaped high with healthy salad and sufficient cash USD with you. Note that we Our crew are passionate about travel and are assorted fillings, with fruit to follow. Dinner cannot accept traveller's cheques on our trips. always up for adventure. The crew undergo might be a BBQ, risotto or pasta dish and Alternatively you can pay in advance via a the most intensive training program of all there is always the chance to try some local bank transfer 3-4 weeks before the start of the overland companies, spending 8 weeks cooking. Generally our passengers find the your trip. If you wish to pre pay please contact learning the ropes at our partner's base in more they put into a trip, the more they benefit us and we can provide the bank details and the UK, and then up to 6 months on the from it. instructions. Please note that pre payment road as a trainee. The crew are trained of the kitty is not possible for Turkmenistan to manage and operate the trip safely and The Local Payment/Kitty tours. Should you wish to pay in advance and efficiently and their duties include: planning In addition to the trip price on our Central Asia the kitty quoted on day 1 of the trip is less than the trip according to the itinerary, driving overlanding trips, you will also be required to what you have paid prior to arrival, you will and maintaining the truck, securing services pay a Local Payment specified for your trip. receive a refund on day 1 of the trip. of local guides, general logistics, health and This Local Payment is referred to locally as the safety, liaising with bureaucracy, dealing with kitty. The kitty is payable in installments at the Please ensure your USD notes are clean and issues where needed and offering advice and start of each section of the trip for combination undamaged and no more than 8 years old. If support to our customers. trips, and in full at the start of the trip for needed, your tour leader will be able to accept individual trips. Each customer joining a trip some of the kitty in local currency, and they In addition they have a basic knowledge pays their kitty into a central fund. The fund is will let you know the exchange rate locally. of the places visited and will be able to managed by the crew and the kitty accounts In most destinations you can withdraw local offer suggestions of things to do and see. can be viewed by all throughout the trip. currencies from ATM machines, using either a We endeavour to provide the services of cash passport or a credit/debit card. However, experienced crew, however, due to the The kitty covers all things that the whole group please bear in mind that most cards have a seasonality of travel, situations may arise does, such as: maximum withdrawal amount per day, local where your tour leader is new to a particular • Hotel accommodation and campsite fees ATMs may run out of cash, and your bank region or training other crew who are new to • Meals whilst camping (not whilst staying in could block the card despite you warning the area. hotels) them of your travel plans, so it could be On our Central Asia overlanding trips, we have • Activities listed as included (e.g. National impractical to try to get the entire kitty out from two western crew but please be aware that Park or historical site entrances, excursions, an ATM. etc.) there may be times when one crew member Tipping has to leave the trip due to unforeseen The kitty system is unique to overlanding and Tipping may not be customary to you and circumstances. In addition to our crew we will allows us to have flexibility and transparency is entirely voluntary - however it can be of have a local guide on board who will travel on our trips. You can see exactly how your with us for the entire duration of our time great significance to the people who take money is being spent and ensure that you are care of you during your trip. The crew may within each country (excluding Turkey and getting the best value by buying locally. It also be travelling with you for many weeks and Azerbaijan). In these cases, the local guide helps to keep the costs competitive and save usually they become good friends with most becomes a third crew member and is able on administration costs so that we can pass members of the group. It is sometimes easy to to offer their local knowledge as well as an the saving on to you. We make NO PROFIT on forget that they do work hard to ensure that insight into their country and the lives of the kitties, as they are the group's fund. If there is you do have a great trip. If you are happy with local people. In Turkey and Azerbaijan we will money left in the kitty at the end of your trip, the service and feel you would like to tip them, employ local guides in specific locations of then this is divided between the group and they certainly would appreciate it. interest (for just a few hours up to a few days). you receive a refund.

Uzbek and Turkmenistan Adventure

In addition to our crew we will employ local • Large equipment storage areas for food, and its activities to their fullest. Some activities guides in specific locations of interest (for just cooking utensils, expedition equipment, etc. may have higher risks than you are used to a few hours up to a few days). Your crew have • Bookshelf/library and you must judge whether or not you wish, a duty of care to all members of the group • Map board and have the physical ability, to take part. Also and therefore they have the authority to ask always make sure that your personal travel you to leave the trip if you require serious Standard equipment on each truck: insurance covers you for any activity you are medical assistance, you are behaving in an • Dome-shaped or A-frame tents with planning to take part in. anti-social manner or refuse to comply with integrated mosquito nets local laws and customs. In all matters relating • Emergency medical kit Please note: The optional activity prices are to the trip, the leader's decision will be final • Camping stools and tables displayed according to our latest information • Cooking equipment, gas, and eating utensils and in the best faith, but prices do fluctuate and we appreciate your respect of this. • Camping lights due to exchange rates, season, numbers of Our Overland Trucks • Full range of mechanical tools and spares participants, and simple increases from the We use rugged and sturdy Mercedes-Benz • Sand mats in case of bogging operator, and therefore any prices listed are a trucks (known for their durability) that will guide only and cannot be guaranteed. take you off road and off the beaten track. Drive Times These have been specially modified to create Please note; all drive times given are the Accommodation custom designed overland vehicles which approximate number of hours that the truck Our Central Asia overland trips are designed have unique integrated cabs. The trucks are will be in motion only, and does not include for shared accommodation, whether camping fully equipped for self-sufficient wild camping, any time taken for coffee or lunch stops, or staying in hotels or hostels, and therefore and have comfortable coach-style seating. All border crossings, photo stops, activities en do not involve a single supplement. Whilst of the trucks are owned and maintained by route, comfort breaks, shopping stops, toilet our crew will do their best to accommodate our partners, and our crew follow a strict stops, etc. The times given are approximate couples travelling together in twin rooms, maintenance schedule - this means we can estimates only and whilst given with the all our travellers should expect to stay in manage the quality and safety of our fleet. best of intentions, the drive times are multi-share accommodation when staying in heavily dependent on traffic, road conditions, hostels, gers or yurts. Please note that the overland trucks are not weather, police roadblocks, and many other air conditioned. This helps to avoid illness factors - flexibility is essential on any overland The type, variety and standard of from the sudden changes in temperature trip! accommodation will vary greatly depending and humidity that you can experience with on what options are available at the time; air conditioned vehicles on long overland Optional Activities hotels can vary from very basic rooms without journeys and it also helps to speed up the Please note that all optional activity electricity or running water to high standard process of acclimatisation to the climate. costs provided in the Trip Notes are an hotels with good facilities! Generally in hotels approximation and subject to change. Prices most rooms will be single sex, twin-share. Each of our vehicles is unique and features listed are for entrance only and do not include Hostels are nearly always multi-share and may will differ between each truck, but most of our transport costs to and from the sites or local be mixed sex. trucks feature the following: guides unless indicated. • An integrated cab - so you are always with The campsites will range from rather basic your crew rather than being separated You will have the opportunity to take part to those with excellent facilities, including • Coach style seating - forward-facing apart in many exciting activities and excursions, swimming pools, restaurants and bars. In from four seats facing backwards around two some of which are included whilst others some cases it may also be possible to tables are optional. The included activities are upgrade locally to bungalows, lodges or • A side awning for sun/rain cover listed under Inclusions. All other activities are even tree-houses. One of the highlights of overlanding is that in more remote areas • Luggage locker optional and at your own expense. If you • A drinking water tank of approximately 350 choose not to participate in the included we wild camp away from the tourist crowds. litre capacity, plus 60-80 litre jerry cans activities, the cost will not necessarily be Occasionally on some of our trips we are able • Long range fuel tanks refunded; this is something you will need to to stay in villages or local homestays allowing • Audio equipment with MP3 player check with your leader. us to get close to the indigenous population connection and ensuring that our money stays within the Some of the activities require a certain level of • 12v charging points (some models only) local community. fitness, so it’s important that you read through • A hidden safe to keep money and passports the itinerary thoroughly and make your own Overland Groups secure conclusions as to whether you feel that you Our overland groups in Central Asia are made • An integrated fridge are fit and healthy enough to enjoy the trip up of people from around the world, and

Uzbek and Turkmenistan Adventure are always an interesting mix of nationalities spending money to allow you to purchase in places and many places where walking and ages. On average there is a pretty even extra food items. around for several hours is the only way to split between males to females, and between explore. solo travellers, couples and small groups of Itineraries friends. We believe that overlanding should Our itineraries are developed and published Overland travelling can be demanding - long, be open to as many people as possible, with the best of intentions, however travel rough travel days, dusty conditions can be and so although we have a minimum age in more remote areas of the world is challenging to some. You will need to be limit of 18, as long as you are fit, healthy unpredictable – borders can close, there fit enough to help every day with the camp and passionate about travel, we are happy can be extreme adverse weather, strikes chores (cooking, washing up, general camp to take you, whatever your age is. One of or maybe mechanical issues that affect the set up) as well as putting up and taking down your own tent. There are some long driving the wonderful aspects of group travel is the running of your trip, but equally due to the camaraderie and friendships that are formed nature of our trips we can often spontaneously days and some early morning starts. The step along the way, and the variety of people that include a local festival or event into the up into the overland vehicle, while not overly you will meet. itinerary. This being said, the safety of our high, can become tiring and you need to judge passengers, leaders and operators is a priority yourself to be physically fit enough to haul Group Size for us. With this in mind we monitor world yourself up and down the step at least 8-10 The maximum group size we take on our events very closely. By the very nature of times a day. Central Asia overland journeys ranges from the adventure travel that we take, there are By and large, our Asia trips have a good 19 to 22 depending on the geographical risks and hazards that are inherent in our range of hotel accommodation mixed up location; however the average number of itineraries. We make operational decisions with camping so that life is not too rough. passengers is more likely to be around 16. based on informed advice from a number We will be travelling to areas in remote On some departures there may be more than of sources, including the British Foreign locations where medical assistance will not one truck doing the same route. This means and Commonwealth Office travel advice, be available. If you have a medical condition that you will be in the same hotel or campsite reports from other travel companies and local such as a heart condition that would put you as another group on some days. To ensure suppliers, leaders' reports from off the road at risk, we would suggest that this is not the that you are not always at the same place at and local contacts we have built up over many trip for you. Also, please be aware that should the same time as another group, your itinerary years of experience. an emergency occur, there is likely to be a will most likely be slightly altered from the considerable delay in accessing medical care, itinerary advertised on the website and in the Passport and by joining our trip you accept this risk. Trip Itinerary. Even on the majority of our trips Your passport details are required to where there is only the one truck, you may complete your booking. If you change your Health passport, please remember to inform us as from time to time meet up with other groups You need to be in good physical health in soon as possible - however, please be aware at points on the road, and may partake in order to participate fully in our trips. When that changing your passport can cause big activities jointly with other groups on these selecting your trip please make sure you problems if you need to apply for visas or occasions. have read through the itinerary carefully and permits in advance. Dietary Requirements assessed your ability to cope with our style of travel. We are always happy to give extra If you have any dietary requirements please As a general rule most countries expect that advice if you have additional concerns. Please tell us at the time of booking and tell your your passport is valid for 6 months after the note that if, in the opinion of our leader, you crew at your welcome meeting. Our crew end of your trip and will refuse entry to anyone are unable to complete the itinerary without will try to cater for any particular dietary with shorter validity. A temporary or 'visitor's' undue risk to yourself and/or the rest of the requirement or food intolerance whenever passport is not valid on our trips. Please group, we reserve the right to exclude you possible. However, it must be remembered ensure the name on your passport matched from all or part of the trip without a refund. that it may not always be possible and the the name on your booking and flight tickets. Bring a copy of the main passport page with variety of dishes may be severely limited in You should consult your doctor for up-to- you on your trip and leave another copy at comparison to those available to others. If date medical travel information prior to travel, home with family or friends. there is anything in particular you require in particularly if you have a pre-existing medical your diet, that you would miss from home, Physical Preparation condition. We also advise you to declare any or because of an allergy would miss out pre-existing medical conditions to your travel In Asia you will need to be healthy enough on, it would be best to bring this with you. insurers upon purchase. to cope with extremes of climates from the Depending on your particular requirements, hot deserts through to the colds of the high you may need to allow yourself some extra Altitude mountains. There are some high altitudes

Uzbek and Turkmenistan Adventure

Some pre-existing medical conditions are • WHO: www.who.int/en/news-room/fact- Insurance known to severely worsen at high altitude and sheets/detail/zika-virus Comprehensive travel insurance with cover be difficult to adequately treat on the ground, • Center for Disease Control and Prevention: for medical expenses and emergency leading to more serious consequences. It is www.cdc.gov/zika repatriation is compulsory for all our trips. imperative that you discuss your pre-existing You will not be allowed to start the trip The Anopheles mosquitoes that transmit medical condition/s with your doctor. We without showing the trip leader evidence malaria usually bite between the hours of dusk understand certain medications are reported of valid travel insurance including the and dawn, whereas the Aedes mosquitoes to aid acclimatising to high altitude; please insurance company’s 24-hour emergency that transmit yellow fever, dengue fever, discuss these options with your doctor. For contact number. trips that travel to areas of high altitude, chikungunya and Zika bite both during the day and the night. To prevent being bitten, it is the tour leader will issue you with a In the case of credit card travel insurance we self-assessment altitude questionnaire which recommended to cover up by wearing long- will require details of the participating insurer, allows you to monitor how you are coping with legged and long-sleeved clothing, preferably the insurance policy number and emergency the altitude and informs you of danger signals light-coloured and buttoned at the wrists. contact number rather than just the bank's so that you can reports these as soon as Do not sleep without closing your windows, name and credit card details. Please contact possible, either to the tour leader or a medical tent door, etc. and use a mosquito net in your bank before travel to obtain these professional. hotels or if sleeping outside where there are details. Also ensure that your credit card travel mosquitoes present. Use mosquito repellent insurance policy has the cover you require, as Yellow Fever applied directly to your skin or soaked many of these policies are not able to cope A valid international certificate of vaccination into your clothing. Treating clothes and with adventure travel to remote areas and against Yellow Fever is required in many mosquito nets with a Permetherin solution many are not valid for travelling outside your countries. You may need to present this on also provides significant protection. It should country of residence or outside the EU. arrival at the airport or border crossing. Some be available at most travel stores. Mosquito countries will refuse entry if you are unable coils are useful on still nights and in hotel Make sure that your insurance policy: to present your certificate. It's also quite rooms, but cannot be used inside the • is designed for adventure travel and that common for your home country to request a tents. For more advice on how to avoid it covers any activity that you may wish to Yellow Fever certificate on your arrival back bites please see: www.travelhealthpro.org.uk/ participate in (whether included or optional), home. It is your responsibility to check with factsheet/38/insect-and-tick-bite-avoidance such as white water rafting, trekking, horse- your doctor well in advance of leaving home riding, etc. about the Yellow Fever requirements for the Vaccinations • has a 24-hour emergency assistance countries you'll be visiting. Recommended vaccinations and other health company that is experienced in handling protections vary according to different situations in developing countries – for Malaria & other Mosquito-Borne Diseases regions and recent bulletins issued by health example, they should have the ability to There is a risk of contracting malaria in some authorities. It is essential to get the latest arrange repatriation from remote areas such areas which we travel through. If your trip specific health advice on the regions and as the Sahara or if you were trekking in the goes to a areas with malaria it is always best countries you are planning to travel in, so Andes to get expert advice before travelling about please check with either your doctor or travel • covers your age group (some policies have the types of malaria pills available, whether clinic in good time before you travel. The age limits) they are recommended, and take any that following websites are also a helpful resource: • covers travel to high altitude if your trip goes are prescribed as instructed. Consult your www.nathnac.net and www.fitfortravel.nhs.uk to altitude (e.g. if you’re climbing Kilimanjaro) GP or travel clinic for the most up-to-date requirements. Medical Assistance in Remote Areas We recommend that any policy has a We will be travelling to areas in remote minimum medical (including repatriation) Other mosquito-borne diseases such as locations where medical assistance will not cover of £5,000,000. We recommend that yellow fever, dengue fever, chikungunya be available. If you have a medical condition any policy also has a minimum level of cover and Zika are continuing to spread and are such as a heart condition that would put you for Personal Liability of £2,000,000 and for becoming a bigger problem around the at risk, we would suggest that this is not the Cancellation and Curtailment of £5,000 (or world. Mosquito bite prevention is vital to trip for you. Also, please be aware that should the full cost of your trip). Please note that avoid contracting any of these diseases, as an emergency occur, there is likely to be a you should be insured for trip postponement there are no vaccines or specific treatments considerable delay in accessing medical care, or cancellation purposes immediately upon available. Health professionals have issued and by joining our trip you accept this risk. paying a deposit. warnings for pregnant women travelling to areas affected by the Zika virus. For more Cover for loss of baggage, personal effects, information about Zika please visit: money and other inclusions are down to

Uzbek and Turkmenistan Adventure personal choice although please bear in for things like drinks, shopping, optional more remote areas it can be difficult to change mind that personal effects are more likely activities, tipping and laundry. Remember to amounts over USD50. to go missing whilst travelling and you also budget for any visas to be obtained en should ensure that your policy is adequate to route. Please note that due to restrictions on cover the value of your personal effects e.g. currency conversion for foreigners in many cameras, tablets, phones, iPods, etc. Please We appreciate that it’s hard to know exactly Asian countries, it may not be possible to note that we are not responsible for your how much money you will need when you’re change leftover local currency back into USD personal effects and is not insured for their travelling through new countries and areas. after your trip, so please plan your budget well loss. To make budgeting a little easier we have by withdrawing/exchanging what you need as included some guidelines below. The Trip you go. Our Liability Insurance Itinerary also gives approximate costs for We have comprehensive passenger vehicle some optional activities and by reading the Contingency Emergency liability protection and tour operator itinerary thoroughly you will know what’s Fund insurance. These policies have total included and what isn’t. As a general rule, it’s Sometimes, civil or political unrest, or reasons indemnities of £5,000,000 and £10,000,000 always better to bring a little more than you beyond our control (e.g. a natural disaster), per incident respectively. This is in addition think you’ll need! can mean that an itinerary is disrupted and to local vehicle insurance and your personal we have to make a contingency plan. This Based on the range that previous travellers travel insurance. may involve hiring alternate transport or even have spent on our overland trips, we the whole group flying over an area. Although recommend budgeting USD15-30 per day. Altitude Warning we will help organise travel arrangements, in Warning - this trip goes above 2800m. Asia Currencies & Cash circumstances outside of our control you will Please note that this trip spends time above be required to contribute the additional costs It is not really worth trying to buy local 2800 metres/9200 feet where it is possible involved and therefore we ask you to bring currencies before you travel. Do also bear for travellers to experience some adverse the equivalent of USD400 as a contingency in mind that many countries have strict effects on your health due to the altitude, fund. In almost all cases trips run smoothly regulations about the amount of their own potentially including Acute Mountain Sickness and this fund is therefore never used. We also local currency you are allowed to import - if (AMS), High Altitude Cerebral Edema (HACE) recommend that you bring an internationally you are found with amounts in excess of the and High Altitude Pulmonary Edema (HAPE). recognised credit or charge card with a allowed amounts, it may well be confiscated! Because of this it is very important that you decent limit in case of emergencies, such as Bringing a sensible mix of cash and ATM make yourself aware of the cause and effects medical treatment en route, or even the need cards is the best way to bring money out, of travelling at altitude and monitor your to be repatriated; though these occurrences but it's always a good idea to bring plenty health during this trip. For further information are rare. Remember that travel insurance of cash that you can change (USD and please click here to download our AMS policies in some instances only refund you for EUR are commonly changed throughout Asia) information sheet or refer to the following expenses after you have already paid out. website: www.high-altitude-medicine.com rather than relying on cards. Apart from the convenience of being able to change money Luggage Your leader will also hand you a copy of the in many more places, you will sometimes Although you will not have to carry your main AMS information sheet during your trip as well get a much better exchange rate for cash. bag for long distances, you will need to help as holding a short meeting prior to travelling ATMs are available in most areas but are not load and unload bags onto the truck. For to altitudes above 2800m/9200ft for the first always reliable. You may also find your card this reason we recommend that you use a time. doesn't work in all ATM's. Credit cards such backpack or soft bag rather than a heavy If you are starting your trip in a destination as Visa and MasterCard are accepted in some suitcase. During your trip your main luggage above 2800m/9200ft we strongly advise major cities, but be prepared for very high will be kept in the truck's luggage locker which reading this information prior to arrival. commission charges. will be inaccessible during a drive day, so you Some Travel Insurance companies will Banks and moneychangers in most countries will also need a small daypack. This can be stipulate a maximum altitude limit. Please in Asia will now only accept bills with a used to carry your camera, water bottle and ensure that metallic strip running top to bottom of the other personal effects for daily use. Please you are covered and if necessary pay the bill and which are no more than 8 years be aware that due to the constant dust and additional premium of extended cover old. You should not take worn or damaged vibrations your luggage bag will be subject to notes, or any that have been written on. extreme wear and tear. Personal Spending Please also bring a mixture of small and large The size of baggage that can be brought is You know your spending habits better than denominations - you may get a better rate limited by the locker space on the truck. We we do, so please budget a sensible amount for changing larger denomination bills, but in

Uzbek and Turkmenistan Adventure recommend that your bag be no larger than the day it can often get cold at night, • 3/4 or 4/5 season sleeping bag with liner – a large rucksack with a capacity of about 80 particularly in desert regions. see note on sleeping bag ratings below litres (approximately 70cm high, 40cm wide • Thermal base layers and 40cm deep). The weight limit for luggage Kit Lists • Winter jacket on all trucks is a maximum of 20kg. For a general idea of what you need, the • Hat, gloves and scarf lists below provide a guide. The lists are NOT • Warm socks Sleeping Bags exhaustive. A sleeping bag's rating typically indicates Hot weather General the lowest temperature at which it will keep For trips going through tropical areas you • Sleeping bag, sleeping bag liner, sleeping the average sleeper warm enough to sustain should be prepared for hot and humid mat and small pillow them but not necessarily make them warm weather. Ensure you bring: • Sandals or flip flops enough to feel comfortable. For example, with • Loose fitting clothes with long sleeves and • Comfortable walking shoes a 0°C bag, you should be able to stay in 0°C legs • Sun hat and sunglasses temperature but you will not necessarily be • Mosquito repellent • Waterproof jacket able to sleep comfortably. • Mosquito net – not essential as our tents • Warm sweater or fleece have mosquito netting but can be handy for For European sleeping bags there are the • Swimwear hotels and hostels or sleeping under the stars following standards: • Comfortable travelling clothes and a set of - The upper limit is the highest temperature at casual but smart clothes for evenings out Electrical Equipment which a 'standard' adult man is able to have • If visiting places of worship on the trip, men Your vehicle will usually be equipped with a a comfortable night's sleep without excess should bring a pair of full length trousers and 12 Volt socket, so to charge your iPod, MP3 sweating. women should bring a skirt that covers their player, camera, laptop and mobile phone you - The comfort rating is based on a 'standard' knees and a scarf will need a DC 12V adapter - the type that adult woman having a comfortable night's • Towel – quick dry, lightweight travel towels can be used from a cigarette lighter in your sleep. are best car. Please be aware that only one piece of - The lower limit is based on the lowest • Toiletries including bio degradable wet equipment can be charged at a time and it temperature at which a 'standard' adult man wipes, sanitary products, hand gel, sun cream will not be allowed if there is a risk of running is deemed to be able to have a comfortable and insect repellent the vehicle’s batteries low. Batteries may also night's sleep. • Day pack – essential for keeping things be recharged from hotel room wall sockets - The extreme rating is a survival-only rating handy when on the truck, on short hikes, and the majority of the campsites we stay at for a 'standard' adult man. This is an extreme walking around cities, etc have electricity points, so please bring along survival rating only and it is not advisable to • Assorted dry bags – to protect your kit from your normal charging adapters as well. You rely on this rating for general use. dust and damp will need to ensure that you have the correct The transition zone, in between the comfort • Pouch or money belt country adapter for your specific charger. and lower temperature, is usually considered • Water bottle (at least 1 litre) – we carry as the best purchase guideline. drinking water on all of our trucks and actively For mobile phones, please note that most encourage our customers to use the water countries in the Americas operate at 850 What to Pack? supplied. Whilst away from the truck we MHz and 1900 MHz which is not the same Your clothes and equipment should be encourage the use of a filter water bottle frequencies used in Europe, Africa, Asia and appropriate for the conditions you are • Head torch with spare batteries and bulbs Australia. Most modern tri-band and quad- travelling in, which will vary depending on • Camera with spare battery and extra memory band mobile phones will be able to operate which part of the world you're heading to. On cards on these frequencies but please check your our overland trips, all camping equipment is • Electrical accessories such as charger, mobile phone specifications before travelling. included apart from sleeping bags and ground power bank, adapter, etc mats, so you'll need to bring those with you if • Carbon monoxide detector Personal Medical Kit your trip includes camping nights. • A good book, a diary or notebook and pen, All of our trucks have a standard motorist's a fun game for travel days first aid kit on board for use in emergency Think about the climate and altitude of the • Personal medical kit – see notes below situations only. The first aid kit is in compliance areas you'll be travelling to - there's nothing with UK standards for first aid provision worse than being cold at night so it's worth Cold weather within motor vehicles, and contains supplies investing in a decent sleeping bag. And For trips going through mountainous areas, to treat road side injuries. We do not remember that even when it's warm during deserts and high altitude regions, you should carry prescription medications, therefore in be prepared for cold weather, especially at night. Ensure you bring:

Uzbek and Turkmenistan Adventure addition to this we recommend that you is experiencing a different way of life and • Ensure you know where your nearest fire exit purchase your own personal medical kit. cultures but this may also mean experiencing is and check to ensure that it is operative. different safety and hygiene standards than • Check the location of the nearest fire In the UK we have teamed up with Nomad those you are normally used to. Therefore, extinguisher. Travel Stores and Clinics to produce travel please take note of the following safety tips • Study the fire instructions in your room if medical kits. They have been designed and follow any local safety advice or briefings available. in conjunction with the truck kits and delivered by your crew and any third-party • Identify how to raise the alarm if a fire occurs. contain everything you would need for suppliers we use during your trip. • If a fire occurs, leave immediately; do not any minor incidents and health issues. To stop to collect your effects. see their overland range go to http:// Transport safety • Proceed to an assembly point well away from www.nomadtravel.co.uk/overland-ready. • Our own vehicles have fully-fitted seat belts; the building. make sure you always belt up. If you find a Government Travel Advice • Electrics in hotels in many of the places that safety belt inoperable or missing on one of our we visit will not be up to the same standards as We follow the British Foreign Office Travel vehicles, please inform the crew immediately. at home. Please ensure that you check rooms, advice when deciding where and where • Unfortunately, we cannot guarantee that especially bathrooms and are aware of any we are unable to travel. We will base our other vehicles we may use or recommend in issues that look unsafe. If in doubt inform the decisions on itineraries and alterations to some countries will be fitted with seat belts on crew who will endeavour to sort the situation published routes based on their advice rather every seat as it is not a legal requirement in out if possible. than the advice of other governments. We much of the world. • Staircases and stairwells are often built to will advise you of any significant changes • Please remain seated on board vehicles at a very different design than under western in advice before travel or whilst you are all times when the vehicle is in motion. building standards. There may be no guard overseas. However, we recommend you • Never place luggage in the aisles or foot rails, be excessively steep, have dangerous check the latest travel advisories from your wells. gaps between the stairs and the wall, etc. At own government for the country you are • Ensure you know where your nearest all times be aware and take appropriate and travelling to before you book and prior to emergency exit is; this may be a designated prudent care. departure. If there are any travel warnings emergency exit, a window, a door, or a roof • We often stay in homestays and farmstays. present for the region you will travel to, as hatch. As these are traditional homes, they may well well as considering whether you are happy • Check the location of the fire extinguisher not adhere to our western standards of safety to travel despite the warning you must also and first aid kit. and so it is important that you make yourself check to ensure that it is not invalidating your • Follow any safety instructions provided by aware of potential risks. travel insurance. the crew/driver. • If in doubt please inform the crew of • Some of our vehicles are fitted with roof Here are a few useful addresses: any safety issues with the hotels/hostels or seats which can be used in certain conditions, UK - www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice homestays. such as when driving at low speeds, off main Australia - www.smartraveller.gov.au tarmac roads, etc. The roof hatches can only Campsite fire safety New Zealand - www.safetravel.govt.nz be opened and the roof seats used with the • Ensure you know where the nearest source United States – www.travel.state.gov express permission of the crew and you must of water or fire extinguisher is. Canada – www.travel.gc.ca never sit in the roof seats without seat belts. • Know how to raise the alarm. We also recommend that you check the • Extinguish all camping fires fully before Road safety UK Travel Aware website before you travel retiring to bed. • Traffic in some countries travels on the at https://travelaware.campaign.gov.uk/. This • Observe any regulations regarding fires and opposite side of the road to what you may be website offers straightforward travel advice, bushfires in dry conditions. used to, so ensure you look both ways before top tips, and up-to-date country information to • Identify how to raise the alarm if a fire occurs. crossing the road. help you plan a safe trip. • If a fire occurs, leave immediately; do not • In many countries vehicles do not stop to collect your effects. Safety Information and Tips automatically stop at crossings and driving • Proceed to an assembly point away from the styles may be very unpredictable, so please Your safety is of paramount importance to tented accommodation/affected campsite. remain very vigilant when near roads and us and we will do our best to ensure that vehicles. Campsite safety & security your travel is safe and trouble-free, but we • Crash helmets are often not provided with • Familiarise yourself with the campsite and do ask that you take that little bit of extra mopeds and motorbikes overseas – we do not any known hazards. care whilst you are away and take some recommend you hire these vehicles. • Group the tents around our vehicle wherever time to understand about the nature of this possible. style of travel. Part of the enjoyment of travel Hostels/Hotels/Homestays safety

Uzbek and Turkmenistan Adventure

• No open flames, smoking or flammable you eat, what food you order and be aware of in any way. The crew are assisting you in liquids in or near the tents. the risks. arranging these activities for your added • Ensure the cooking area is well away from enjoyment whilst on your trip. The operators the tents. Personal safety of these services and optional extras are local • Ensure all water for cooking and drinking is One of the real advantages of overland travel suppliers who contract directly with the client purified first. is that the vehicle provides a very real level ‘on the road’, subject to and in accordance • Ensure any soil toilets are a minimum of 50m of security when travelling. There is no doubt with their own terms and conditions. We away from the tents and the cooking area. that a properly-equipped overland vehicle, accept no liability for any action or activity • All food waste should be burned or buried a with safes, fully lockable doors and windows undertaken by the client which is arranged minimum of 100m away from the site. is an obvious advantage when travelling in independently of us while on tour. Crew may much of the world. Generally speaking, you • Ensure local advice is followed concerning take part in an optional activity but do so any wildlife in the area. will not be travelling on local public transport as private individuals and not as company • Keep valuables locked in the vehicle. and will have the added security of travelling representatives. • Be aware of any local security issues that in a group with experienced crew on-hand to might be important. offer advice. We have come up with a few Please use your own good judgement when • Do not set out tents close to perimeter pointers that we recommend you follow: selecting an activity in your free time, taking into account your physical ability to take part fences which may be a security risk. • Follow the crew’s specific safety advice in • Be aware of the security arrangements and and making sure you are happy with the each destination. safety aspects of the activity. Ensure that you local guards for campsite and if in doubt ask • Always remain aware and vigilant, and stay them where and where not to pitch tents. use the appropriate equipment on optional away from situations where you do not feel activities, including life jackets, helmets, etc. • If in doubt please inform the crew of any comfortable. safety issues with campsite. This is especially important on activities such • Avoid carrying too much money. as horse riding, white-water rafting, etc. • When wild camping, ensure that you do not • Always avoid carrying your passport, driving wander away from the camp alone. If you do licence, air tickets, and other valuable items Always ensure that your travel medical leave camp, ensure that you have notified the around with you unless this is essential. insurance covers you for all included and leader or other members of the group. Instead, keep valuables such as this locked optional activities that you wish to participate Food safety away in the truck's safe, or the safety deposit in. box in the room or reception of the hotel/ • Make sure your food has been thoroughly Extra Accommodation & cooked. hostel. • Hot food should be hot, cold food should be • If you are carrying cash, cards or valuables, Transfers cold. use a money belt or neck wallet which are We believe you should make the most of the • Avoid any uncooked food, except fruit and more easily concealed and more difficult to places you visit, so if you would like to see vegetables (notably those you can peel or pickpocket. more of the joining or finishing point cities, shell yourself). • Do not take any valuable jewellery, watches, why not book additional accommodation to • In many countries you should only drink etc. away with you in the first place. extend your stay? We can take away the bottled water or purified water and ensure any • Avoid walking in poorly lit areas. hassle of time zones and language barriers seal is intact when purchasing bottles. • If possible avoid walking around on your by making the booking for you. This service • On the overland trucks we have a tank of own; it is always safer to explore with others. is available for some hotels in joining and drinking water that is kept purified by the • Always try to walk with confidence and finishing cities, immediately before or after the crew. purpose, which will help you avoid looking like trip you are travelling on. • Avoid ice in drinks as this can cause upset a lost tourist! While we are happy to assist with booking stomachs in hot climates. • Take special care when walking to avoid your pre and post trip accommodation, it • Make sure you wash your hands in spraining or twisting your ankle on potholes, is important that you understand that you antibacterial product when preparing and/or cobbles and uneven ground. may be able to book your own room at a eating food. cheaper rate directly through the hotel or on • Many of the restaurants that you will eat in, Activity Safety & Optional Activities the internet. Our additional accommodation either as a group or as individuals, will NOT Optional activities are not included in the trip prices are based on the hotel’s rate plus an have the same standards of food hygiene as price or kitty, and do not form part of your administration fee. Please note our rates do we have in the western world. Unfortunately contract with us. As such you accept that not reflect last minute walk-in rates or internet this is a reality of life in these regions. any assistance given by the crew members specials. We can also book arrival airport Therefore please think carefully about where or local representatives in arranging optional activities does not render us liable for them transfers for you as long as we have your flight arrival details. These are normally payable in

Uzbek and Turkmenistan Adventure cash upon arrival; however we do have pre- relevant embassy or consulate. However, for Turkmen Ministry of Foreign Affairs which we paid transfers in a few destinations. trips that involve multiple visas, you may find have noticed has increased since last season. it beneficial to use a specialist visa agency to Unfortunately the decision that the ministry Please contact our reservations team for assist you with your applications. While this makes is completely out of our control and details of the accommodation and transfers does sometimes increase the cost, it usually often they will not provide a reason as to why that we can offer. makes the process much easier for you. they have rejected the application, which we A Few Rules understand can be frustrating. If your Letter of Visas can take several weeks to process Application is rejected and you are part of a It is one of our core values to treat all people so make sure you familiarise yourself with longer trip, we will do our best to help with we encounter with respect, including the local any requirements as soon as you have making alternative travel arrangements until people who make our destinations so special. booked your trip to allow for processing you can rejoin the group, however this will be We have therefore set down a number of rules time. As you will often need to submit at your own cost. to which our travellers must adhere. Engaging your passport together with your applications, in commercial or exploitative sexual activities, we recommend that you avoid making any We would also strongly recommend if flying committing acts of violence or threatening travel plans in the weeks leading up to your into or out of Turkmenistan that you purchase violence towards local people, other group departure. flexible flight tickets in the event that your members or any member of our staff is application is rejected. Turkmenistan Letters not allowed. Any customer engaging in such For trips that are not yet guaranteed, you may of Invitation are typically issued once a day activities will be find yourself in the position whereby you will to the complete group of people that happen need to start the visa application process prior required to leave the trip immediately with no to have applied on the same day through the refund of the trip price. to your trip being guaranteed - in this situation same agent; as such your name, nationality we still advise you not to purchase flights until and passport number will appear on a list on You must at all times comply with the your trip is guaranteed. However, you can the Letter of Invitation alongside other tourists laws, customs, foreign exchange and drug start your visa application process, ensuring who may be on your trip or travelling with regulations of all countries visited and that when applying for your visas or letters of other companies, and this list will be shared conduct yourself in accordance with our invitation that you allow several days before with everyone on it. responsible travel policy. Any customer found and after your entry into the country to allow As this is a standard practice of the Turkmen contravening such laws or regulations will be for delays, availability of flights, etc. Ministry of Foreign Affairs, we do not have any required to leave the trip immediately with no control over this and cannot get around it; if refund of the trip price. The information provided here is given in good faith and was correct at time of writing; you view this as an unacceptable breach of Although we are aware that in some parts however please visit the relevant consular privacy, then you will be unable to apply for of the world taking, carrying or selling drugs, website of the country or countries you the Letter of Invitation and will not be able to carrying weapons, or engaging in commercial are visiting for detailed and up-to-date visa travel to Turkmenistan. or exploitative sexual activities may be legal, information specific to your nationality. Please After your Letter of Invitation has been issued, it is not acceptable for our travellers and our be aware that rules surrounding visas do you can use this to apply for the visa in tour leaders have the right to ask you to leave change, often suddenly, and without prior advance at any Turkmen Embassy. You can the trip immediately with no refund of the trip warning. either apply yourself directly to the embassy, price if you are found to be engaging in such or hire a specialist visa agency to make activities. Turkmenistan Visas the application on your behalf (which is Citizens of all countries will need a visa to recommended, especially if you are applying General Visa Information enter Turkmenistan for up to 10 days. You will for several visas). Many countries require visas to enter; some need a Letter of Invitation from a Turkmen must be obtained before you leave home agent in order to make the visa application. If you are joining the trip in Ashgabat, it and others can be obtained en route. is possible to obtain the visa on arrival at Firstly you will need to apply for the Letter Whilst the ultimate responsibility for obtaining Ashgabat of Invitation – we will contact you to request visas is yours, we will endeavour to assist International Airport. It is also possible to additional information in order for us to make you wherever possible. If you require any obtain the visa on arrival at the land border this application on your behalf. These support supporting documentation for your visa with documents can take 4 - 5 weeks to issue, and applications, we can obtain this on your Uzbekistan at Dashoguz if you are on a will be emailed to you once they are ready. behalf. Westbound trip. Both of these options can be very time consuming on arrival, so it For visas that are needed in advance, you may Please note that there is a risk of your is recommended that you obtain the visas wish to submit the applications directly to the Letter of Invitation being rejected by the in advance if possible – you will need the

Uzbek and Turkmenistan Adventure

Letter of Invitation in all cases. You must get Please note the visa’s are only valid for 3 for several visas). Please note that you will your visa in advance if you will arrive into months from the date of issue. only be able to apply at the embassy that you Turkmenistan at the port of Turkmenbashi have previously specified, and your Letter of after the Caspian Sea ferry on an Eastbound If you are asked to provide an address in Invitation will not be valid for any other Uzbek trip, as there are no visas available at the port Uzbekistan on your visa form, please use the Embassy. – you will be denied entry onto the ferry in address below: Baku if you do not have your visa in place. Uzbekistan Hotel If you are joining the trip in Tashkent or are on If obtaining your visa on arrival at one of the 45 Mirzamakhmud Musakhaov Street an Eastbound trip, you will need to obtain your above locations please note all visa related Tashkent visa in advance of travel. If you are travelling fees are generally only to be paid in USD cash. Uzbekistan on a Westbound trip, many travellers choose Tel - +998711131111 to obtain their visa in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan. Costs will vary for different nationalities as well Please ensure if you choose to obtain your as entry ports. Besides the visa fee, you will For citizens of countries that are not eligible also be charged an immigration fee between Uzbekistan visa in Bishkek that you have for an E Visa, you will need to apply for a your application form printed and ready to 14 USD and 18 USD regardless if you already tourist visa at your closest embassy. You will hold your visa or obtain it on arrival. go along with any supporting documents also need a Letter of Invitation from an Uzbek required before you start your trip. Please If you are asked to provide an address in agent in order to make the visa application, note that the visa is only valid for a period of Turkmenistan on your visa form, please use and you must obtain the visa in advance. 3 months from the date of issue. the address below: You cannot obtain the visa at the border in any circumstance. Firstly you may need Ak Altyn Hotel, to apply for the Letter of Invitation from us 141/1 Magtymguly Avenue, - we will contact you to request additional 744000, information in order to make this application Ashgabat, on your behalf. This service is included. These Turkmenistan support documents can take several weeks Tel: +99 312 363 700 to issue, and will be emailed to you once they are ready. You will need to specify at If you are asked to provide a host in which Uzbek embassy you intend to make Turkmenistan on your visa form, please use your visa application at. Please note that the details of the Turkmen agent that issued Uzbekistan Letters of Invitation are typically your Letter of Invitation (this will be printed on issued once a day to the complete group of the letter). people that happen to have applied on the We will need to register your visa within 3 same day through the same agent addressed days of entering the country. Your tour leader to the same consulate; as such your name, can do this on your behalf, but please bring 2 nationality and passport number will appear passport photos for the registration process. on a list on the Letter of Invitation alongside Uzbekistan Visas other tourists who may be on your trip or travelling with other companies, and this list Citizens of the UK, Australia, New Zealand, will be shared with everyone on it. As this is Canada and most EU countries do not require a standard practice of the Uzbek Ministry of a visa to travel to Uzbekistan for up to 30 days Foreign Affairs, we do not have any control as of the 1st of February 2019. over this and cannot get around it; if you view Citizens of the USA and South Africa will this as an unacceptable breach of privacy, be required to obtain an E visa to enter then you will be unable to apply for the Uzbekistan as a tourist for up to 30 days. Letter of Invitation and will not be able to E Visa’s must be applied for online and in travel to Uzbekistan. After your Letter of advance – please go to https://e-visa.gov.uz/ Invitation has been issued, you can use this main to apply; it should take 1 – 2 weeks to be to apply for the visa in advance at the Uzbek approved, then they will send a visa approval Embassy specified on your Letter of Invitation. confirmation to your email address which you You can either apply yourself directly to the must print out to present at the border – the embassy, or hire a specialist visa agency to costs may vary depending on your nationality. make the application on your behalf (which is recommended, especially if you are applying