3 independent reviews for Silk Road cultural holiday, Kyrgyzstan & Uzbekistan
Reviews for Silk Road cultural holiday, Kyrgyzstan & Uzbekistan
Evin Dilber review 1 Jul 2024
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
Both Yurt camps were absolutely fantastic and Kyrgyzstan has been a revelation and exceeded expectations. The horse riding was great fun and we even had a "horse rugby" demonstration. We did two 10 km walks enjoying the scenery (and edelweisses!!) at a slow pace going up at 3000 m but worth it. Although there was a lot of driving (by the expert driver) the landscapes were so fabulous and varied that we did not get bored for a second! For a geologist and a botanist the place is heaven. And of course there is always and impromptu party at the summit by the locals (lots of vodka involved) saying no not an option. Uzbekistan was entirely different and a cultural discovery. More shopping opportunities if interested: silk, pottery, carpets....Came across a wedding and got invited to join and dragged to the dance floor....priceless. To be in a small group (6) was definitely a super bonus.2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
Be aware the tour is not too vegetarian friendly. Nomad cultures eat meat. Something to bear in mind. Having said that the food is delicious. Make sure you pack clothes for cold (over 3000 m gets a bit chilly) and warm (about 36 deg C in Uzbekistan). If you don't like heat again think again.3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
The yurt and home stays definitely benefited the locals. Same for the home lunches. Interestingly they are mostly run by entrepreneurial women. A good way to supplement their income in the summer months.4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
Exceeded expectations. The tour is very well organised with fantastic very attentive guides. A feast for the eyes and a continuous discovery of history, nature and culture. Would definitely recommend.Anne Teal review 21 Aug 2016
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
Every day was different with a very well thought out balance between stunning scenery, fascinating cityscapes, modes of transport, levels of activity, types of accommodation and cuisine. We were able to get a small sense of what the Silk Road merchants must have experienced, and also an insight into some pretty remote parts of Central Asia.2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
Read up on the history and cultures of the Silk Road countries before you go.3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Reasonably.4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
Well planned and organised by the holiday providers and expertly led by Jude.Joan Godman review 29 Sep 2015
1. What was the most memorable or exciting part of your holiday?
This was a holiday of two completely different parts: - Staying in a Yurt by Son Kul Lake in Kyrgyzstan - beautiful, peaceful surroundings, lovely shepherds & their families, contented cows, horses, sheep & goats & then travelling across the mountains to see the amazing blue tiles of the mosques & minarets in the heat of Uzbekistan2. What tips would you give other travellers booking this holiday?
Be prepared for basic conditions in the yurt camps - no washing facilities (& don't mention the toilets) Take head torch, plenty of wipes (!), gloves for horse riding or trekking in Kyrgyzstan. Need to pack carefully for very cold & very hot conditions.3. Did you feel that your holiday benefited local people, reduced environmental impacts or supported conservation?
Definitely in Kyrgyzstan - we were supporting the families in the yurt camps and the people in the homestays and supporting the way of life of the shepherds4. Finally, how would you rate your holiday overall?
One of the best trips I have been on !!Holiday Reviews
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