Tolbo Lake (Stain Lake) | Mongolia Travel Guide
Tolbo Lake (Stain Lake)
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Explore Mongolia’s Wild West over the Naadam Festival. Meet Kazakh
eagle hunters and hike in the stunning Altai Mountains. Go beyond
the Steppe!
From 2,900 USD per person
Please apply by 30th July, 2020.
Explore Mongolia’s Wild West over the Naadam
Festival. Meet Kazakh eagle hunters and hike
in the stunning Altai Mountains. Go beyond
the Steppe!
From 2,900 USD per person
The summer Naadam Festival is one of the best times to travel to Mongolia for the annual games of horse racing, archery, and wrestling. It is also the busiest time to visit the country. We’ll get you to Mongolia’s far west to see how the Naadam Festival is celebrated away from the crowds. Starting in Ulaanbaatar, we’ll fly west to Hovd and travel overland to Bayan Olgii.
Along the way, we’ll experience not only traditional Mongolian life but also the culture of the Kazakh and Tuvan people. Meet and chat with eagle hunters, shamans, and nomads who live in the region. Travelling off-road and sleeping in ger and tents, we'll also get our hands dirty in the great outdoors of the Altai mountains and have the chance to try out horseback riding.
Come along for 12 unforgettable Mongolian summer nights over the Nadaam festival. Koryo Tours’ tour leader Rich Beal has been leading tours in Mongolia for 15 years and frequently travels beyond the capital Ulaanbaatar to the country’s far west, far north, and south into the Gobi Desert. Looking to see more of Mongolia? Come along for Koryo Tours’ Gobi Explorer right after Naadam.
See below for highlights, full itinerary, and additional information about the Naadam Festival Western Mongolia Tour - Beyond the Steppe.
INCLUDED
NOT INCLUDED
Please note! This tour has been specifically arranged to visit remote areas. As such it may have elements of an expedition about it, due to the nature and ruggedness of the terrain. Due to this, any change in itinerary at the time cannot be helped. We will do our best to keep to the advertised itinerary as closely as possible. However, please be aware that things are subject to change, especially if we encounter any extreme weather conditions. Along the way all tour decisions will rest with Rich (tour manager) and an expedition leader. We will also be taking advice from local people on the ground whose expertise will far exceed our own.
Please apply by 30th July, 2020.
This tour into the vast Gobi Desert offers
a great insight into local life, geology
and scenery.
From 1,600 USD per person
Please apply by 1st July, 2020.
This tour into the vast Gobi
Desert offers a great insight
into local life, geology and
scenery.
From 1,600 USD per person
A short adventure for those who wish to see the great Gobi Desert in a short space of time. During this short but intensive tour, we delve deep into the Gobi Desert and become true explorers. Our first stop is at Mandalagovi.
This desert town was once home to factories during the Soviet Union period. Heading further south, we will check out the Yol Am Valley. This is located in the Gurvan Saikhan Mountain range. Before setting off on our hike, we will pay a visit to the small local natural history museum which includes strange exhibits and 10 million-year-old dinosaur eggs. During this Gobi Desert tour, we also visit the Khongor Sand Dunes, also known as the ‘Singing Dunes’ for the eerie noise they make when swept by the wind, as well as visiting Bayanzag.
This is otherwise known as ‘Flaming Cliff’s due to the rich red colouration of the clays and rocks which have been pushed up to form this landscape. All this, whilst checking out the herds of camels as we go, hiking through untouched and unexplored areas, enjoying breathtaking sunrises, and experiencing life in a Mongolian tent/Mongolia Ger.
Tour leader Rich Beal has 15 years of experience leading tours to Mongolia, including remote areas of Mongolia’s far west and Gobi Desert. If you’re looking for an even more unique experience, head to Mongolia for the Naadam Festival which directly precedes this Gobi Desert Explorer Tour.
See below for the Gobi Explorer Tour highlights, itinerary, and notes.
INCLUDED
NOT INCLUDED
Please note! This tour has been designed to visit not only a few of the more remote areas but also those must see sites that are firmly on the tourist trail. Although with any tour to Mongolia there is still an element of nature and ruggedness of the terrain. Due to this, any change in itinerary at the time cannot be helped. We will do our best to keep to the advertised itinerary as closely as possible. However, please be aware that things are subject to change, especially if we encounter any extreme weather conditions. Along the way all tour decisions will rest with Rich (tour manager) and an expedition leader. We will also be taking advice from local people on the ground whose expertise will far exceed our own.
Please apply by 1st July, 2020.
Bhutan Travel | A seven day adventure across Bhutan giving
a great insight into this remote and otherwise secluded
country
From 2,700 USD per person
Please apply by 1st July, 2020.
Bhutan Travel | A seven day adventure
across Bhutan giving a great insight
into this remote and otherwise secluded
country
From 2,700 USD per person
Our Bhutan highlights tour is designed by Koryo tours and its local partners to give you a brief but insightful look into the Bhutanese way of life. Join us on this exhilarating journey as we discover not only the untouched culture and tradition of Bhutan, but catch a glimpse of its unique and rich cultural heritage.
Your Bhutan travel adventure will take you on a journey around the highlights of Bhutan, as well as to see some exclusive and unexplored areas of this mysterious country. This includes a trip to a local family's house in Bhutan where we will enjoy a feel for local life, and a trip to a school in Bhutan to see the local Bhutanese children studying (or playing) hard. A tour to one of the worlds most unusual countries must strike first at its 50-year-old capital Thimphu, after landing in Paro Airport - Bhutan's only international airport and labelled as "the world's most dangerous flight landing". This vibrant young capital offers the old and the new. Enjoy a freshly brewed coffee whilst gazing at the red-robed monks mixing in with Bhutan's modern crowds with a snow-capped mountain background.
Our Bhutan tours continue to the lush green valleys of Punakha and beyond to Phobjikha. Along the way, we'll visit homes, temples, a school and of course Bhutan's ultimate highlight; the Tiger's Nest Monastery. All the while travelling across the vast empty lands of this country surrounded by mountains and never-ending stunning landscapes. Due to Bhutan's tourism policy, there are very few tourists to the Kingdom of Bhutan every year.
We take it one step further, visiting Bhutan on the offseason period where tourism in Bhutan is at its lowest. Enjoy the vast landscapes, history-rich sites and tranquil temples in peace!
INCLUDED
NOT INCLUDED
Bhutan Visa
Visa Application to Bhutan For all travelling to Bhutan, your Bhutan visa must be applied for ahead of your travel plans through us and our partners in Bhutan. Once Koryo receives your tour booking and your tour payment is confirmed we will use the supporting documents provided to obtain your visa ready for your adventure!
Bhutan Flight Information
We will need information regarding your flight details upon booking. All customers will be met and transferred from the airport upon arrival as is the norm for any of our Koryo other destinations tours.
Flights for Bhutan are two-fold. You will need to book a flight to any of the airports which either service Druk Airlines or Air Bhutan. These flights will then also need to be booked separately. The national airline ‘Drukair’ operates; New Delhi & Kolkata in India, Kathmandu-Nepal and Bangkok-Thailand and Singapore. There is a flight from Paro to Bangkok via Kolkata and Bangkok to Paro via Kolkata every day and there is a flight from Delhi to Paro via Kathmandu on Monday, Thursday & Saturday and Paro to Delhi via Kathmandu on Wednesday, Friday and Sunday and fly back the same. There is a flight from Singapore to Paro via Kolkatta on Monday, Wednesday and Saturday. We can be of assistance if you need help with your Druk air reservations.
Bhutan Currency/Money in Bhutan
All meals are included on your tour to Bhutan meaning that you only need spending money for souvenirs, drinks and tips etc which are not included in the trip cost. My recommendation would be to bring cash, as it is easily exchanged into local currency. ATMs are available in Thimphu and Paro but not other areas. The official currency of Bhutan is the Bhutanese Ngultrum (BTN). It is also possible to use Indian Rupee although larger denominations may be refused. Most major currencies can be exchanged at the airport on arrival but as with many countries in the region make sure you have only clean, crisp and undamaged notes. Read more on Bhutan currency and how much money to bring to Bhutan.
Bhutan Suggested Packing
Generally speaking, we recommend you pack as lightly as possible and make sure that you are able to carry and lift your own luggage and walk with it for short distances. Most travellers carry their luggage in a backpack, although an overnight bag with a shoulder strap would suffice if you travel lightly. Smaller bags or backpacks with wheels are convenient. A lockable bag or small padlock is useful as your luggage may get stowed separately and unattended while you travel. Bhutan Packing Essentials • Day pack: for carrying essentials when exploring destinations like water, camera, snacks, jacket, etc. • Lightweight clothing: A mixture of covering lightweight clothing and some warm layers are recommended. It is best to check the weather and seasonal information before travelling. Please also bring clothing that covers arms and pants/skirts that go past the knee for entry into local religious sites. • Temperatures can get very low overnight in some parts of Bhutan – be prepared for changes in temperature throughout the day. • Comfortable shoes for full-day walking/trekking. Closed-in shoes will help to protect your feet from cuts and scratches when walking through cities as well as bush/grasslands, and will also act as a barrier protection in rare cases against bites or stings. • Wind and waterproof jacket • Sun protection: hat, sunscreen, sunglasses, and lip balm. In some areas, it will still be cold so something warm, such as a fleece, should be brought along. Bhutan Packing Recommended • Personal medical kit. We recommend you carry items such as mild pain killers, electrolytes, Band-Aids and insect repellent. • Water bottle. We recommend a 1.5-litre capacity for which we can provide potable water. Bottled water is also available but we prefer to use safe drinking water rather than contribute to polluting the environment. • Spare batteries - our trips have access to power to recharge batteries for phones and cameras most days, but we recommend you take spare batteries for your camera. • Travel adapter plug • Inner sleep sheet/bag for added comfort during overnight stays. • Money belt • Torch or flashlight • Hand sanitizer • Neck pillow for those long, bumpy drives Bhutan Packing Optional • Earplugs to guard against street noise and snorers. • A good book, a journal and music player for longer drives. • Images from home. During our trip, there will be many opportunities for you to meet and talk with locals. One way to start any conversation is with pictures. We recommend that you bring some photos/postcards of your family, home, city or country where you live, animals peculiar to your country etc.
Please apply by 1st July, 2020.
This 10-night tour traces the route of the ancient Silk Road and the adventures of Marco Polo. Starting in the
capital of Kyrgyzstan, Bishkek, we will follow the M41 Pamir Highway to Dushanbe, Tajikistan, while passing
the most amazing mountain scenery.
From 2,700 USD per person
Please apply by 1st August, 2020.
This 10-night tour traces the route of the ancient Silk Road and the adventures
of Marco Polo. Starting in the capital of Kyrgyzstan, Bishkek, we will follow
the M41 Pamir Highway to Dushanbe, Tajikistan, while passing the most amazing
mountain scenery.
From 2,700 USD per person
This tour starts in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan. We visit the fascinating capital of Bishkek before flying to Osh. From here, we follow the route of the historical M41 Pamir Highway.
We will cross into Tajikistan over high passes and past beautiful lakes and snow-capped mountains. We stay in small towns and villages along the way; this journey will take you to some of this region’s most remote but rewarding destinations, to ultimately arrive in Dushanbe — Tajikistan’s lovely, laid back capital.
The tour will be led by one of our most experienced tour leaders, Rich Beal. Rich has led tours all over the world since 2004 and has personally designed and researched all our Tajikistan tours. Because of his close connection to the country, his fellow Tajik guides and friends like to joke that Tajikistan is his third home (China and Mongolia being first and second)!
INCLUDED
NOT INCLUDED
Please apply by 1st August, 2020.
Kazakhstan is where a vibrant multi-cultural society meets the dark legacy
of deportations, gulags, and nuclear weapons. Come with us and see all of
the above and much more!
From 2,100 USD per person
Please apply by 1st August, 2020.
Kazakhstan is where a vibrant multi-cultural society
meets the dark legacy of deportations, gulags, and
nuclear weapons. Come with us and see all of the above
and much more!
From 2,100 USD per person
Visit Kazakhstan on this Explore Kazakhstan adventure with Koryo Tours!
From the new capital city, Nur-Sultan - formerly Astana, to the old capital city Almaty, we will spend 9 nights travelling by road, rail, and air, as we give you the best in Kazakhstan travel. Over the 9-night Kazakhstan adventure, we will tour little-explored areas of Kazakhstan including; the industrial base of Karaganda, the infamous Semipalatinsk (in two words; Gulags and Nukes), and Kurchatov – the Los Alamos of the USSR, where the Red Bomb was developed and tested (over and over again!).
We will even get to ground zero in ‘The Polygon’. This is the vast nuclear testing range full of abandoned measuring platforms, bunkers, craters, buried machinery, and the scenic yet chilling ‘Atomic Lake’. Like nowhere you will have explored before, visit Kazakhstan and get a history lesson on the darker side of this little-known land. This, as well as updates on what’s been going on in the cities and countryside as we pass between them and talk with locals, seeing local life and industry, and so much more..! Koryo Tours have combined our expertise working in the country, contacts, and in-depth research to offer you the best in Kazakhstan travel.
Visit Kazakhstan with us and it will be a trip of a lifetime!
Dates don’t suit? Check out our Explore Kazakhstan | Astana to Nur-Sultan May tour, or contact us for details on private tours.
Scroll down for an overview of our Explore Kazakhstan - Astana to Almaty May tour highlights, tour itinerary, transport options, DPRK tourist visa information, and extra add-ons.
All hotel rooms on our all-inclusive group tours to Kazakhstan feature twin beds, and will be shared. If you'd like a room to yourself then you can upgrade for an extra $30 USD per night
INCLUDED
NOT INCLUDED
How to Apply: To apply simply click on the application button listed with this tour and fill out the online form, upload a passport copy and photo (or send to us by email) and you can consider yourself to be booked on this adventure! For any questions, comments, etc about this trip get in touch with Simon Cockerell at [email protected] We ask for application to be complete a minimum of one month in advance of the tour, ideally six weeks or more if possible: Please also indicate where you plan to join the tour from and finish the tour by going (we can offer advice on this, drop us a line to discuss it) We also require a deposit to be paid at this time as we start taking on administrative costs as well as an obligation to pay for the visa invitation as soon as we send off an application. We ask for a deposit of 50% of the tour fee. Cancellation & Refunds: Please note that if you require a visa for Kazakhstan you will need to pay this fee yourself. Most visitors do not require visas though. Check https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Visa_policy_of_Kazakhstan We practice the same cancellation policy with this tour as we do with our DPRK tours. This is listed on our website T&C. However we do not seek profit from people who cannot go on tours but we do make arrangements and commit to payments in good faith once a booking is received and payment is made. So we always try to refund more than the minimum. As with any trip it is best to be as sure as possible that you will be able to attend the trip when making the final booking. If the tour is cancelled by Koryo Tours for any reason then a full refund is of course made. In all cases we return as much as we can and we do not take a fee for client's cancellation. Please be sure that you will definitely be joining the tour when you send all application details.
Please apply by 1st August, 2020.
Spend 7 nights in Central Asia’s least visited country! Visit Ashgabat, Turkmenistan’s white
marble fantasy capital, see the bizarre Darvaza Gas Crater, and explore the ancient Silk Road
ruins of Konye-Urgench.
From 2,190 USD per person
Please apply by 14th August, 2020.
Spend 7 nights in Central Asia’s least visited country! Visit
Ashgabat, Turkmenistan’s white marble fantasy capital, see the
bizarre Darvaza Gas Crater, and explore the ancient Silk Road
ruins of Konye-Urgench.
From 2,190 USD per person
Join Koryo Tours this October for our Turkmenistan tour as the adventures continue. Turkmenistan is Central Asia’s least visited country. This means it may be a bit difficult to access and travel around, but it certainly doesn’t have any less to offer!
Join Koryo Tours as we explore the beautiful capital city Ashgabat, camp over at the famous Darvaza Gas Crater, otherwise known as ‘the Gates of Hell’, and be dazzled by the colourful desert canyons to the Caspian Coast.
As we journey through the country, we will see the serious and the sublime, the freaky and the frivolous – join us on this fantastic adventure that we simply do better than anyone else. Koryo Tours have been working in Turkmenistan for over a decade. Over this time, we’ve built this extraordinary experience through dozens of visits and the best local contacts and relationships, meaning our Turkmenistan tours are unrivalled in quality, experience, and fun!
We look forward to sharing it with you in Turkmenistan! This tour will be led by one of our most experienced tour leaders, Rich Beal. Rich has led tours all over the world since 2004, leading tours to Turkmenistan for five years (and to the rest of Central Asia twice as long!). He is incredibly knowledgable about the area and a great storyteller — ask, and he will tell you plenty of fascinating travel anecdotes from his many adventures!
If dates don’t suit, check out our Turkmenistan tour in May, or contact us to organise a private trip.
Scroll down for an overview of the Turkmenistan Tour highlights, tour itinerary, transport options, Turkmenistan visa information, and extra add-ons.
The default rooming option for this tour is shared hotel room or tent (one night). Each hotel room on tour has two separate beds. If you'd like a room to yourself then you can upgrade for an extra $50 USD per night
INCLUDED
NOT INCLUDED
**This tour will be accompanied by a western tour leader if there are over five passengers booked**
HOW TO APPLY
Please email Rich Beal at [email protected] to begin your tour application. We do require a deposit paid upon booking the tour as we start paying tour costs when your visa application process had begun. We ask for a deposit of 50% of the tour fee. You must apply at least four weeks before the tour departure date as the Letter of Invitation that we need to obtain to facilitate the visa can take several days to be issued by the Turkmenistan Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Most travellers opt to have the visas issued upon arrival into Turkmenistan. If you would prefer to have the visa issued before your arrival or have any further questions, please do not hesitate to contact us. aThe LOI's will be issued to coordinate as closely as possible with the tour dates if you need extra days at each end of your journey please do let us know in advance of your application. If you are joining the tour from somewhere other than Beijing and buying a ticket via Koryo tours; We will email the e-ticket voucher to you as soon as it has been received into our office. If you are purchasing your flight ticket via other airlines or agents, we need these flight details ASAP. We, unfortunately, can not accept any liability for delayed flights and any issue associated with times associated letters of invitations. It is entirely possible to join the tour by flying in from other destinations also. We can also accommodate people joining the tour after entering by land or sea, and a range of exit methods are available to those joining this tour. Single supplement is accessible on this tour at 50 USD per night; if you are travelling alone and wish to share a room to avoid this fee, we will attempt to match you up with another traveller. You will also have to pay the visa issuing fee, at Ashgabat airport this ranges from US$80 to $130 (depending on nationality) payable in cash only.
CANCELLATION & REFUNDS
Please note: The visa fee for this tour is not covered in the tour cost and you will be responsible for this. Due to the extended amount of time that it takes to have a visa authorised and sent to an Embassy of Turkmenistan it is much simpler to collect the visa on arrival at Ashgabat Airport, the fee payable here varies according to your nationality, its usually around US$100. The visa is stamped in your passport and is the same as it would be if issued at a Turkmen Embassy. If you insist on having your visa issued at an Embassy, then please be sure to apply for the tour as early as possible. The deposit is non-refundable if the tourist cancels himself. If however we cannot arrange visas or for whatever reason, it is not possible to travel at the specified time (or you cannot make rescheduled dates) a full refund will be issued. Should the client wish to cancel after the visa application has submitted, charges imposed on us will be paid out of the 50% deposit with the balance being returned to the client. If you have paid in full, we will return 50% plus the balance of what is left after the cancellation fee we pay to our partners in Turkmenistan. If you book and cancel a plane ticket through us, we charge only the airline's cancellation fee. In all cases, we return as much as we can, and we do not take a fee for the client's cancellation. Please be sure that you will be joining the tour when you send all application details.
Please apply by 14th August, 2020.
Bhutan Travel | A seven day adventure across Bhutan giving
a great insight into this remote and otherwise secluded
country
From 2,700 USD per person
Please apply by 31st October, 2020.
Bhutan Travel | A seven day adventure
across Bhutan giving a great insight
into this remote and otherwise secluded
country
From 2,700 USD per person
Our Bhutan highlights tour is designed by Koryo tours and its local partners to give you a brief but insightful look into the Bhutanese way of life. Join us on this exhilarating journey as we discover not only the untouched culture and tradition of Bhutan, but catch a glimpse of its unique and rich cultural heritage.
Your Bhutan travel adventure will take you on a journey around the highlights of Bhutan, as well as to see some exclusive and unexplored areas of this mysterious country. This includes a trip to a local family's house in Bhutan where we will enjoy a feel for local life, and a trip to a school in Bhutan to see the local Bhutanese children studying (or playing) hard. A tour to one of the worlds most unusual countries must strike first at its 50-year-old capital Thimphu, after landing in Paro Airport - Bhutan's only international airport and labelled as "the world's most dangerous flight landing". This vibrant young capital offers the old and the new. Enjoy a freshly brewed coffee while gazing at the red-robed monks mixing in with Bhutan's modern crowds with a snow-capped mountain background.
Our Bhutan tours continue to the lush green valleys of Punakha and beyond to Phobjikha. Along the way, we'll visit homes, temples, a school and of course Bhutan's ultimate highlight; the Tiger's Nest Monastery. All the while travelling across the vast empty lands of this country surrounded by mountains and never-ending stunning landscapes. Due to Bhutan's tourism policy, there are very few tourists to the Kingdom of Bhutan every year.
We take it one step further, visiting Bhutan on the offseason period where tourism in Bhutan is at its lowest. Enjoy the vast landscapes, history-rich sites and tranquil temples in peace!
INCLUDED
NOT INCLUDED
Bhutan Visa
Visa Application to Bhutan For all travelling to Bhutan, your Bhutan visa must be applied for ahead of your travel plans through our partners and us in Bhutan. Once Koryo receives your tour booking, and your tour payment is confirmed, we will use the supporting documents provided to obtain your visa ready for your adventure!
Bhutan Flight Information
We will need information regarding your flight details upon booking. All customers will be met and transferred from the airport upon arrival as is the norm for any of our Koryo other destinations tours.
Flights for Bhutan are two-fold. You will need to book a flight to any of the airports which either service Druk Airlines or Air Bhutan. These flights will then also need to be booked separately. The national airline ‘Drukair’ operates; New Delhi & Kolkata in India, Kathmandu-Nepal and Bangkok-Thailand and Singapore. There is a flight from Paro to Bangkok via Kolkata and Bangkok to Paro via Kolkata every day, and there is a flight from Delhi to Paro via Kathmandu on Monday, Thursday & Saturday and Paro to Delhi via Kathmandu on Wednesday, Friday and Sunday and fly back the same. There is a flight from Singapore to Paro via Kolkatta on Monday, Wednesday and Saturday. We can be of assistance if you need help with your Druk air reservations.
Bhutan Currency/Money in Bhutan
All meals are included on your tour to Bhutan, meaning that you only need spending money for souvenirs, drinks and tips etc. These are not included in the cost of the trip. My recommendation would be to bring cash, as it is easily exchanged into local currency. ATMs are available in Thimphu and Paro but not other areas. The official currency of Bhutan is the Bhutanese Ngultrum (BTN). It is also possible to use Indian Rupees although larger denominations may be refused. Most major currencies can be exchanged at the airport on arrival but as with many countries in the region make sure you have only clean, crisp and undamaged notes. Read more on Bhutan currency and how much money to bring to Bhutan.
Bhutan Suggested Packing
Generally speaking, we recommend you pack as lightly as possible and make sure that you are able to carry and lift your own luggage and walk with it for short distances. Most travellers carry their luggage in a backpack, although an overnight bag with a shoulder strap would suffice if you travel lightly. Smaller bags or backpacks with wheels are convenient. A lockable bag or small padlock is useful as your luggage may get stowed separately and unattended while you travel. Bhutan Packing Essentials • Day pack: for carrying essentials when exploring destinations like water, camera, snacks, jacket, etc. • Lightweight clothing: A mixture of covering lightweight clothing and some warm layers are recommended. It is best to check the weather and seasonal information before travelling. Please also bring clothing that covers arms and pants/skirts that go past the knee for entry into local religious sites. • Temperatures can get very low overnight in Bhutan – be prepared for changes in temperature throughout the day. • Comfortable shoes for full-day walking/trekking. Closed-in shoes will help to protect your feet from cuts and scratches when walking through cities as well as bush/grasslands, and will also act as a barrier protection in rare cases against bites or stings. • Wind and waterproof jacket • Sun protection: hat, sunscreen, sunglasses, and lip balm. In some areas, it will still be cold so something warm, such as a fleece, should be brought along. Bhutan Packing Recommended • Personal medical kit. We recommend you carry items such as mild pain killers, electrolytes, Band-Aids and insect repellent. • Water bottle. We recommend a 1.5-litre capacity for which we can provide potable water. Bottled water is also available, but we prefer to use safe drinking water rather than contribute to polluting the environment. • Spare batteries - our trips have access to power to recharge batteries for phones and cameras most days, but we recommend you take spare batteries for your camera. • Travel adapter plug • Inner sleep sheet/bag for added comfort during overnight stays. • Money belt • Torch or flashlight • Hand sanitizer • Neck pillow for those long, bumpy drives Bhutan Packing Optional • Earplugs to guard against street noise and snorers. • A good book, a journal and music player for longer drives. • Images from home. During our trip, there will be many opportunities for you to meet and talk with locals. One way to start any conversation is with pictures. We recommend that you bring some photos/postcards of your family, home, city or country where you live, animals peculiar to your country etc.
Please apply by 31st October, 2020.
See Buzkashi, Central Asia’s 'most dangerous sport',
and travel to Tajikistan over the Nowruz Persian
New Year.
From 2,200 USD per person
Please apply by 13th March, 2021.
See Buzkashi, Central Asia’s 'most
dangerous sport', and travel to Tajikistan
over the Nowruz Persian New Year.
From 2,200 USD per person
Travel to Tajikistan over the Nowruz Persian New Year and experience Buzkashi ('goat-pulling' on horseback sport), ancient history, and breathtaking scenery.
As a crossroads of Central Asia and the Silk Road, Tajikistan has a rich and vibrant culture bringing together Persian, Greek, Turkic, Mongol, Russian, and Soviet culture throughout the ages. Beginning from the capital Dushanbe, the centre of modern Tajik culture, we'll explore southern Tajikistan and set out across the countryside to find Buzkashi - goat pulling. Watch as hundreds of horse riders work in teams and as individuals to pull a goat carcass through a goal. Dubbed the 'world's most dangerous sport', Buzkashi is a sight to behold!
We'll then head north over the beautiful and rugged Fann Mountains in the footsteps of Alexander the Great and Babur, the first Mughal emperor, on the way stopping at the large Khoja Obi Garm Soviet sanatorium - a gigantic Bond villain-like hideout - and the crystal clear waters of Lake Alexander. You'll then pass through the 5 km long Anzob tunnel before reaching the Sughd region, once ancient Sogdia at the mouth of the Fergana Valley.
This tour will be led by expert tour leader Rich Beal, who has extensive experience planning and leading tours throughout Tajikistan and Central Asia. Because of Rich's close connection to the country, his fellow Tajik guides and friends like to joke that Tajikistan is his third home (China and Mongolia being first and second)!
Looking to travel the Pamir Highway? See Koryo Tours' Pamir Highway Mountain Crossroads Tour in August from Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan to Dushanbe, Tajikistan on the M41 Highway through the Pamir Mountains.
Please see below for the Buzkashi and Persian New Year Tour highlights, itinerary, and additional information.
INCLUDED
NOT INCLUDED
VISA APPLICATION TO TAJIKISTAN
It is now possible to purchase your visa online, which makes our visit to Tajikistan a lot easier. Please see the following link for more information: https://www.evisa.tj Upon booking we will help should any further information be required.
IMPORTANT NOTE TO TOURISTS
This tour is a group trip designed to have a good amount of free time. We will give you ideas if you want to go out exploring or just take it easy at a café. Please be on time and return to that the hotel in the evening. Please note we will be driving relatively long distances, and seats can be hard, so we suggest bringing a travel pillow/neck support – the view and experience more than makeup for a little discomfort though. Khoja Obi Garm Spa - please note this is a Radon spa which has radioactive properties. There are various thoughts on whether this is good for you or not! - please read up beforehand and make your own decision. The different types of treatment with steam sauna and water jets, massage etc. It is in a beautiful mountain area and worthwhile even for those not taking the spa treatments. The Russians built the spa over a religious shrine – for those of you not taking a sauna go pop out and try and find it in this beautiful mountainscape. Massage is 60 somoni head body arms, just need to wear pants or towel provided (radon shower included if you want! ) Carry a colour photocopy of your passport with you at all times.
USEFUL TIPS
Taxis – In 2017 most journeys cost around 20-30 somoni but make sure you agree to a price beforehand. Segafroid Café in Dushanbe is a good place for internet, and Western food- open for billiards and ten pin bowling cost 120 somonis per hour. The Segafroid Café is about a 20 somoni taxi ride from the Hotel Lotus. Dushanbe has the world’s largest tea house open for billiards, and ten-pin bowling cost 120 per hour. Bring sun protection cream. Bring hand sanitiser and toilet paper.
WEATHER
Early Spring weather so bring a light jumper and jacket; however, we will be heading into the mountains so have some warm clothing also as there will be snow.
Please apply by 13th March, 2021.
7-night tour exploring unknown Tajikistan and run in the AIMS certified Dushanbe
Half Marathon. Marvel at its scenery, discover its history and meet the friendliest
people we know!
From 1,500 USD per person
Please apply by 1st April, 2021.
7-night tour exploring unknown Tajikistan and run in
the AIMS certified Dushanbe Half Marathon. Marvel at
its scenery, discover its history and meet the friendliest
people we know!
From 1,500 USD per person
Incredible yet relatively unknown, Tajikistan indeed an astonishing country that should be visited.
Sitting in Central Asia, it not only has a fascinating history as a former Soviet bloc country but the friendliest people you will ever meet and the most incredible breathtaking scenery.
This tour will not only get you there to experience all of this, but to also join in the local Tajik celebrations for their 'Day of the City' running in the 2020 Dushanbe International Half Marathon - an AIMS certified race. Learn more about the marathon and Tajikistan at www.rundushanbe.com
This tour will be led by one of our most experienced tour leaders, Rich Beal. Rich has led tours all over the world since 2004 and has personally designed and researched all our Tajikistan tours. Because of his close connection to the country, his fellow Tajik guides and friends like to joke that Tajikistan is his third home (China and Mongolia being first and second)!
We're unable to take you on one of our tours if you do not have medical insurance that covers the destination in question. Issues of isolation and infrastructure where we go mean it would be irresponsible of us to do so. We can provide this if you do not have it — or you can use your own.
INCLUDED
NOT INCLUDED
Please apply by 1st April, 2021.
4 - night tour exploring Dushanbe and running in their AIMS certified Half
Marathon. Plus join in the local celebrations for the 10th anniversary
of the Day of the City!
From 1,200 USD per person
Please apply by 2nd April, 2021.
4 - night tour exploring Dushanbe and running in
their AIMS certified Half Marathon. Plus join in
the local celebrations for the 10th anniversary
of the Day of the City!
From 1,200 USD per person
Incredible yet relatively unknown, Tajikistan is a genuinely fantastic country that all should visit.
Sitting in Central Asia, it not only has a fascinating history as a former Soviet bloc country but the friendliest people you will ever meet and the most incredible breathtaking scenery.
This tour will not only get you there to experience all of this, but to also join in the local Tajik celebrations for their 'Day of the City' running in the 2020 Dushanbe International Half Marathon - an AIMS certified race. Learn more about the marathon and Tajikistan at www.rundushanbe.com
This tour will be led by one of our most experienced tour leaders, Rich Beal. Rich has led tours all over the world since 2004 and has personally designed and researched all our Tajikistan tours. Because of his close connection to the country, his fellow Tajik guides and friends like to joke that Tajikistan is his third home (China and Mongolia being first and second)!
INCLUDED
NOT INCLUDED
Please apply by 2nd April, 2021.
Kazakhstan is where a vibrant multi-cultural society meets the dark legacy
of deportations, gulags, and nuclear weapons. Come with us and see all of
the above and much more!
From 2,300 USD per person
Please apply by 20th March, 2021.
Kazakhstan is where a vibrant multi-cultural society
meets the dark legacy of deportations, gulags, and
nuclear weapons. Come with us and see all of the above
and much more!
From 2,300 USD per person
On this incredible 10-night adventure we will start in the new capital of Kazakhstan, Nur-Sultan (formerly Astana) and finish in the old, Almaty.
We will be there between two big days; May 1st (International Labour Day), and May 9th, Victory Day - on which the 'Immortal Battalion' of hundreds of thousands of locals parade in honour of their heroic relatives who fought in WWII. A stunning experience and something you can join in with, absolutely unforgettable!
In between these two fascinating cities, we will travel by road, rail, and air as we adventure and explore parts of Kazakhstan only a few have seen before. We will be heading to the industrial base of Karaganda, the infamous Semipalatinsk (in two words; Gulags and Nukes), and Kurchatov - the Los Alamos of the USSR, where the Red Bomb was developed and tested.
Plus, we will even get to ground zero in ‘The Polygon’; the vast nuclear testing range full of abandoned measuring platforms, bunkers, craters, buried machinery, and the scenic yet chilling ‘Atomic Lake’. We’ll get a history lesson on the darker side of this little-known land, as well as updates on what’s been going on in the cities and countryside as we pass between them seeing local life, industry, and so much more. Combining our expertise working in the country, contacts, and in-depth research, we’ve put together a tour that is like no other to offer you the best in Kazakhstan tourism.
Dates don't suit? Check out our Explore Kazakhstan | Nur-Sultan to Almaty September Tour, or contact us for more information on private tours.
Scroll down for an overview of our Explore Kazakhstan - May Day to Victory Day tour highlights, tour itinerary, transport options, DPRK tourist visa information, and extra add-ons.
Nur-Sultan (Astana) - once the centre of the Virgin Lands campaign, now national capital
Dostoyevsky Nuclear Polygon – USSR’s testing range for atmospheric and underground nukes
Chagan – Abandoned long-range bomber base, and garrison town.
All hotel rooms on our all-inclusive group tours to Kazakhstan feature twin beds, and will be shared. If you'd like a room to yourself then you can upgrade for an extra $30 USD per night
INCLUDED
NOT INCLUDED
How to Apply: To apply simply click on the application button listed with this tour and fill out the online form, upload a passport copy and photo (or send to us by email) and you can consider yourself to be booked on this adventure! For any questions, comments, etc about this trip get in touch with Simon Cockerell at [email protected] We ask for application to be complete a minimum of one month in advance of the tour, ideally six weeks or more if possible: Please also indicate where you plan to join the tour from and finish the tour by going (we can offer advice on this, drop us a line to discuss it) We also require a deposit to be paid at this time as we start taking on administrative costs as well as an obligation to pay for the visa invitation as soon as we send off an application. We ask for a deposit of 50% of the tour fee. Cancellation & Refunds: Please note that if you require a visa for Kazakhstan you will need to pay this fee yourself. Most visitors do not require visas though. Check https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Visa_policy_of_Kazakhstan We practice the same cancellation policy with this tour as we do with our DPRK tours. This is listed on our website T&C. However we do not seek profit from people who cannot go on tours but we do make arrangements and commit to payments in good faith once a booking is received and payment is made. So we always try to refund more than the minimum. As with any trip it is best to be as sure as possible that you will be able to attend the trip when making the final booking. If the tour is cancelled by Koryo Tours for any reason then a full refund is of course made. In all cases we return as much as we can and we do not take a fee for client's cancellation. Please be sure that you will definitely be joining the tour when you send all application details.
Please apply by 20th March, 2021.
Visit vibrant multi-cultural Kazakhstan and ecectic
Turkmenistan. Come with us and see all of the above
and much more!
From 4,100 USD per person
Please apply by 1st April, 2021.
Visit vibrant multi-cultural Kazakhstan
and ecectic Turkmenistan. Come with
us and see all of the above and much
more!
From 4,100 USD per person
On this 15-night adventure, we will start in the new capital of Kazakhstan, Nur-Sultan (formerly Astana) and finish in the ostentatious city of Ashgabat Turkmenistan.
In between these two fascinating cities, we will travel by road, rail, and air as we adventure and explore parts places only a few have seen before, combining ancient history and the bizarre with the sublime. We will be heading to the industrial base of Karaganda, the infamous Semipalatinsk (in two words; Gulags and Nukes), and Kurchatov - the Los Alamos of the USSR, where the Red Bomb was developed and tested.
Plus, we will even get to ground zero in ‘The Polygon’; the vast nuclear testing range full of abandoned measuring platforms, bunkers, craters, buried machinery, and the scenic yet chilling ‘Atomic Lake’. We will make sure to visit the main sites during our time in Turkmenistan such as Ashgabat and the Darvaza Gas Crater (Gates of Hell), but also take you off the beaten path to really experience and understand Turkmenistan. Meet local people, learn about their lives and history, their differences and commonalities.
This tour will be led by our general manager and travel specialist Simon Cockerell, who first travelled to Turkmenistan in 2004 — on the very first flight from Beijing! He has been to the country over 25 times since. Combining our 15-year expertise working in this region, contacts, and in-depth research, we’ve put together a tour that is like no other to offer you the best in Kazakhstan & Turkmenistan tourism.
Dates don't suit? Check out our Explore Kazakhstan | Nur-Sultan to Almaty September Tour, or contact us for more information on private tours.
All hotel rooms on our all-inclusive group tours to Kazakhstan feature twin beds, and will be shared. If you'd like a room to yourself then you can upgrade for an extra $30 USD per night
The default rooming option for this tour is shared hotel room or tent (one night). Each hotel room on tour has two separate beds. If you'd like a room to yourself then you can upgrade for an extra $50 USD per night
INCLUDED
NOT INCLUDED
Please email Rich Beal at [email protected] to begin your tour application. We do require a deposit paid upon booking the tour as we start paying tour costs when your visa application process had begun. We ask for a deposit of 50% of the tour fee. You must apply at least four weeks before the tour departure date as the Letter of Invitation that we need to obtain to facilitate the visa can take several days to be issued by the Turkmenistan Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Most travellers opt to have the visas issued upon arrival into Turkmenistan. If you would prefer to have the visa issued before your arrival or have any further questions, please do not hesitate to contact us. aThe LOI's will be issued to coordinate as closely as possible with the tour dates if you need extra days at each end of your journey please do let us know in advance of your application. If you are joining the tour from somewhere other than Beijing and buying a ticket via Koryo tours; We will email the e-ticket voucher to you as soon as it has been received into our office. If you are purchasing your flight ticket via other airlines or agents, we need these flight details ASAP. We, unfortunately, can not accept any liability for delayed flights and any issue associated with times associated letters of invitations. It is entirely possible to join the tour by flying in from other destinations also. We can also accommodate people joining the tour after entering by land or sea, and a range of exit methods are available to those joining this tour. Single supplement is accessible on this tour at 50 USD per night; if you are travelling alone and wish to share a room to avoid this fee, we will attempt to match you up with another traveller. You will also have to pay the visa issuing fee, at Ashgabat airport, this ranges from US$80 to $130 (depending on nationality) payable in cash only.: Please note that if you require a visa for Kazakhstan, you will need to pay this fee yourself. Most visitors do not require visas, though.
Check https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Visa_policy_of_Kazakhstan For Turkmenistan everyone will need a letter of invitation this is used upon arrival to obtain your visa for the country. We will send you further details upon booking. We practice the same cancellation policy with this tour as we do with our DPRK tours. This is listed on our website T&C. However, we do not seek profit from people who cannot go on trips, but we do make arrangements and commit to payments in good faith once a booking is received and payment is made. So we always try to refund more than the minimum. As with any trip it is best to be as sure as possible that you will be able to attend the trip when making the final booking. If Koryo Tours cancels the tour for any reason, then a full refund is of course made. In all cases, we return as much as we can, and we do not take a fee for the client's cancellation. Please be sure that you will be joining the tour when you send all application details.
Please apply by 1st April, 2021.
Featuring the white marble fantasy-capital of Ashgabat, a night camping
at the bizarre Darvaza gas crater, the ancient Silk Road ruins of Konye-Urgench,
and more!
From 2,100 USD per person
Please apply by 10th April, 2021.
Featuring the white marble fantasy-capital of Ashgabat,
a night camping at the bizarre Darvaza gas crater,
the ancient Silk Road ruins of Konye-Urgench, and
more!
From 2,100 USD per person
Join experts in Turkmenistan travel, Koryo Tours, on this epic journey to Central Asia’s most enigmatic and least-visited country; Turkmenistan.
We will see history unfold as we travel from ruined ancient cities to gleaming modern marble-clad towers. From flaming pits deep in the desert to deep subterranean pools of health-infusing water. We will make sure to visit the main sites during our time in Turkmenistan such as Ashgabat and the Darvaza Gas Crater (Gates of Hell), but also take you off the beaten path to really experience and understand Turkmenistan. Meet local people, learn about their lives and history, their differences and commonalities.
We look forward to sharing it with you in Turkmenistan!
This tour will be led by our general manager and travel specialist Simon Cockerell, who first travelled to Turkmenistan in 2004 — on the very first flight from Beijing! He has been to the country over 25 times since. Over the years, he has made close friends there, explored widely, and maintained a deep fascination since first visiting 15 years ago. You can rest assured that you will be in safe hands during your Turkmenistan tour and that you will get the most out of your trip into this unexplored land!
If dates don’t suit, check out our Turkmenistan tour in October, or contact us to organise a private tour.
Scroll down for an overview of the Turkmenistan Tour highlights, tour itinerary, transport options, Turkmenistan visa information, and extra add-ons.
The default rooming option for this tour is shared hotel room or tent (one night). Each hotel room on tour has two separate beds. If you'd like a room to yourself then you can upgrade for an extra $50 USD per night
INCLUDED
NOT INCLUDED
**This tour will be accompanied by a western tour leader if there are over five passengers booked**
HOW TO APPLY
Please email Rich Beal at [email protected] to begin your tour application. We do require a deposit paid upon booking the tour as we start paying tour costs when your visa application process had begun. We ask for a deposit of 50% of the tour fee. You must apply at least four weeks before the tour departure date as the Letter of Invitation that we need to obtain to facilitate the visa can take several days to be issued by the Turkmenistan Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Most travellers opt to have the visas issued upon arrival into Turkmenistan. If you would prefer to have the visa issued before your arrival or have any further questions, please do not hesitate to contact us. aThe LOI's will be issued to coordinate as closely as possible with the tour dates if you need extra days at each end of your journey please do let us know in advance of your application. If you are joining the tour from somewhere other than Beijing and buying a ticket via Koryo tours; We will email the e-ticket voucher to you as soon as it has been received into our office. If you are purchasing your flight ticket via other airlines or agents, we need these flight details ASAP. We, unfortunately, can not accept any liability for delayed flights and any issue associated with times associated letters of invitations. It is entirely possible to join the tour by flying in from other destinations also. We can also accommodate people joining the tour after entering by land or sea, and a range of exit methods are available to those joining this tour. Single supplement is accessible on this tour at 50 USD per night; if you are travelling alone and wish to share a room to avoid this fee, we will attempt to match you up with another traveller. You will also have to pay the visa issuing fee, at Ashgabat airport this ranges from US$80 to $130 (depending on nationality) payable in cash only.
CANCELLATION & REFUNDS
Please note: The visa fee for this tour is not covered in the tour cost and you will be responsible for this. Due to the extended amount of time that it takes to have a visa authorised and sent to an Embassy of Turkmenistan it is much simpler to collect the visa on arrival at Ashgabat Airport, the fee payable here varies according to your nationality, its usually around US$100. The visa is stamped in your passport and is the same as it would be if issued at a Turkmen Embassy. If you insist on having your visa issued at an Embassy, then please be sure to apply for the tour as early as possible. The deposit is non-refundable if the tourist cancels himself. If however we cannot arrange visas or for whatever reason, it is not possible to travel at the specified time (or you cannot make rescheduled dates) a full refund will be issued. Should the client wish to cancel after the visa application has submitted, charges imposed on us will be paid out of the 50% deposit with the balance being returned to the client. If you have paid in full, we will return 50% plus the balance of what is left after the cancellation fee we pay to our partners in Turkmenistan. If you book and cancel a plane ticket through us, we charge only the airline's cancellation fee. In all cases, we return as much as we can, and we do not take a fee for the client's cancellation. Please be sure that you will be joining the tour when you send all application details.
Please apply by 10th April, 2021.
Koryo Tours' newest adventure - epic
journey to a unique and forbidden
place!
From 2,800 USD per person
Please apply by 30th April, 2021.
Koryo Tours' newest adventure
- epic journey to a unique
and forbidden place!
From 2,800 USD per person
Closed to outsiders since its foundation as a forced-labour nickel mining colony, Norilsk has since grown into an absolutely fascinating and utterly remote region of apocalyptic industrial landscapes, stunning natural beauty, a fascinating and hardy local population, and so much more for pioneering adventurers to discover – see this very remote and very special area with Koryo Tours!
We start the tour in Igarka, an unknown and super-remote place. It is reachable only by a very rare flight and home to some fascinating museums. From here, we travel up to Norilsk by ship along the Yenisei River.
Norilsk is a closed city in the arctic circle, known for being the world's most polluted city and the base of the largest nickel mines in the world - but is so much more than this! We will also travel to Dudinka - Port settlement controlling access from the arctic to the Siberian interior, and Talnakh, a Fascinating town and the base of some of the dirtiest and most apocalyptic industry on the planet. Beautiful and terrifying all at once.
IMPORTANT NOTE: These dates are provisional but planned. Final confirmation will come in October when domestic flight and boat dates are confirmed. We recommend not booking flights to/from Russia until that time
INCLUDED
NOT INCLUDED
Please apply by 30th April, 2021.
Explore Mongolia’s Wild West over the Naadam Festival. Meet Kazakh eagle hunters, hike
in the stunning Altai Mountains, and experience Mongolia’s largest holiday celebration.
Go beyond the Steppe!
From 2,900 USD per person
Please apply by 11th June, 2021.
Explore Mongolia’s Wild West over the Naadam Festival. Meet
Kazakh eagle hunters, hike in the stunning Altai Mountains,
and experience Mongolia’s largest holiday celebration. Go
beyond the Steppe!
From 2,900 USD per person
The summer Naadam Festival is one of the best times to travel to Mongolia for the annual games of horse racing, archery, and wrestling. It is also the busiest time to visit the country. We’ll get you to Mongolia’s far west to see how the Naadam Festival is celebrated away from the crowds. Starting in Ulaanbaatar, we’ll fly west to Hovd and travel overland to Bayan Olgii. Along the way, we’ll experience not only traditional Mongolian life but also the culture of the Kazakh and Tuvan people. Meet and chat with eagle hunters, shamans, and nomads who live in the region.
Travelling off-road and sleeping in ger and tents, we'll also get our hands dirty in the great outdoors of the Altai mountains and have the chance to try out horseback riding. Come along for 12 unforgettable Mongolian summer nights over the Nadaam festival. Koryo Tours’ tour leader Rich Beal has been leading tours in Mongolia for 15 years and frequently travels beyond the capital Ulaanbaatar to the country’s far west, far north, and south into the Gobi Desert. Looking to see more of Mongolia? Come along for Koryo Tours’ Gobi Explorer right after Naadam.
See below for highlights, full itinerary, and additional information about the Naadam Festival Western Mongolia Tour - Beyond the Steppe.
Experience Nadaam -- the biggest festival of the year for Mongolians Visit Mongolian, Kazak and Tuva nomadic families Enjoy horseback riding Hike the high mountains (with views across to Russia and China) Swim in mountain lakes and rivers Explore the Altai and Bayan Ulgii region of Mongolia Construct and sleep in a traditional Mongolian ger (yurt) Marvel at the skill of local eagle hunters Stay with and learn from local Yak herders
English speaking guide Western tour leader All meals outside Ulaanbaatar Camels for luggage Internal flights Horse riding All included sightseeing All taxes & entrance fees to protected areas All camping equipment (not sleeping bags) All tents are on two-person bases, but single options are available upon booking.
Sleeping bags Extra horse riding 30 - 60 USD International flights Any alcoholic beverages Meals (specified) Medical insurance (can be arranged.) Visas (if needed) Helmet rental 30 USD Sleeping bag hire (incl cleaning 30 USD for tour) Items of personal nature
Please note! This tour has been specifically arranged to visit remote areas. As such it may have elements of an expedition about it, due to the nature and ruggedness of the terrain. Due to this, any change in itinerary at the time cannot be helped. We will do our best to keep to the advertised itinerary as closely as possible. However, please be aware that things are subject to change, especially if we encounter any extreme weather conditions. Along the way all tour decisions will rest with Rich (tour manager) and an expedition leader. We will also be taking advice from local people on the ground whose expertise will far exceed our own.
Please apply by 11th June, 2021.
This tour into the vast Gobi Desert offers
a great insight into local life, geology
and scenery.
From 1,600 USD per person
Please apply by 12th June, 2021.
This tour into the vast Gobi
Desert offers a great insight
into local life, geology and
scenery.
From 1,600 USD per person
A short adventure for those who wish to see the great Gobi Desert in a short space of time. During this short but intensive tour, we delve deep into the Gobi Desert and become true explorers. Our first stop is at Mandalagovi.
This desert town was once home to factories during the Soviet Union period. Heading further south, we will check out the Yol Am Valley. This is located in the Gurvan Saikhan Mountain range. Before setting off on our hike, we will pay a visit to the small local natural history museum which includes strange exhibits and 10 million-year-old dinosaur eggs. During this Gobi Desert tour, we also visit the Khongor Sand Dunes, also known as the ‘Singing Dunes’ for the eerie noise they make when swept by the wind, as well as visiting Bayanzag.
This is otherwise known as ‘Flaming Cliff’s due to the rich red colouration of the clays and rocks which have been pushed up to form this landscape. All this, whilst checking out the herds of camels as we go, hiking through untouched and unexplored areas, enjoying breathtaking sunrises, and experiencing life in a Mongolian tent/Mongolia Ger.
Tour leader Rich Beal has 15 years of experience leading tours to Mongolia, including remote areas of Mongolia’s far west and Gobi Desert. If you’re looking for an even more unique experience, head to Mongolia for the Naadam Festival which directly precedes this Gobi Desert Explorer Tour.
See below for the Gobi Explorer Tour highlights, itinerary, and notes.
INCLUDED
NOT INCLUDED
Please note! This tour has been designed to visit not only a few of the more remote areas but also those must see sites that are firmly on the tourist trail. Although with any tour to Mongolia there is still an element of nature and ruggedness of the terrain. Due to this, any change in itinerary at the time cannot be helped. We will do our best to keep to the advertised itinerary as closely as possible. However, please be aware that things are subject to change, especially if we encounter any extreme weather conditions. Along the way all tour decisions will rest with Rich (tour manager) and an expedition leader. We will also be taking advice from local people on the ground whose expertise will far exceed our own.
Please apply by 12th June, 2021.
This 10-night tour traces the route of the ancient Silk Road and the adventures of Marco Polo. Starting in the
capital of Kyrgyzstan, Bishkek, we will follow the M41 Pamir Highway to Dushanbe, Tajikistan, while passing
the most amazing mountain scenery.
From 2,700 USD per person
Please apply by 1st August, 2021.
This 10-night tour traces the route of the ancient Silk Road and the adventures
of Marco Polo. Starting in the capital of Kyrgyzstan, Bishkek, we will follow
the M41 Pamir Highway to Dushanbe, Tajikistan, while passing the most amazing
mountain scenery.
From 2,700 USD per person
This tour starts in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan. We visit the fascinating capital of Bishkek before flying to Osh. From here, we follow the route of the historical M41 Pamir Highway.
We will cross into Tajikistan over high passes and past beautiful lakes and snow-capped mountains. Staying in small towns and villages along the way, this journey will take you to some of this region’s most remote but rewarding destinations, to ultimately arrive in Dushanbe — Tajikistan’s lovely, laid back capital.
This tour will be led by one of our most experienced tour leaders, Rich Beal. Rich has led tours all over the world since 2004 and has personally designed and researched all our Tajikistan tours. Because of his close connection to the country, his fellow Tajik guides and friends like to joke the country is his third home (China and Mongolia being first and second)!
INCLUDED
NOT INCLUDED
Please apply by 1st August, 2021.
Spend 7 nights in Central Asia’s least visited country! Visit Ashgabat, Turkmenistan’s white
marble fantasy capital, see the bizarre Darvaza Gas Crater, and explore the ancient Silk Road
ruins of Konye-Urgench.
From 2,190 USD per person
Please apply by 2nd September, 2021.
Spend 7 nights in Central Asia’s least visited country! Visit
Ashgabat, Turkmenistan’s white marble fantasy capital, see the
bizarre Darvaza Gas Crater, and explore the ancient Silk Road
ruins of Konye-Urgench.
From 2,190 USD per person
Join Koryo Tours this October for our Turkmenistan tour as the adventures continue. Turkmenistan is Central Asia’s least visited country.
This means it may be a bit difficult to access and travel around, but it certainly doesn’t have any less to offer! Join Koryo Tours as we explore the beautiful capital city Ashgabat, camp over at the famous Darvaza Gas Crater, otherwise known as ‘the Gates of Hell’, and be dazzled by the colourful desert canyons to the Caspian Coast.
As we journey through the country we will see the serious and the sublime, the freaky and the frivolous – join us on this amazing adventure that we simply do better than anyone else. Koryo Tours have been working in Turkmenistan for over a decade. Over this time, we’ve built this special experience through dozens of visits and the best local contacts and relationships meaning our Turkmenistan tours are unrivalled in quality, experience, and fun!
We look forward to sharing it with you in Turkmenistan!
This tour will be led by one of our most experienced tour leaders, Rich Beal. Rich has led tours all over the world since 2004 and has been leading tours to Turkmenistan for 5 years (and to the rest of Central Asia twice as long!). He is incredibly knowledgable about the area and a great storyteller — ask and he will tell you plenty of fascinating travel anecdotes from his many adventures!
If dates don’t suit, check out our Turkmenistan tour in May, or contact us to organise a private tour.
Scroll down for an overview of the Turkmenistan Tour highlights, tour itinerary, transport options, Turkmenistan visa information, and extra add-ons.
The default rooming option for this tour is shared hotel room or tent (one night). Each hotel room on tour has two separate beds. If you'd like a room to yourself then you can upgrade for an extra $50 USD per night
INCLUDED
NOT INCLUDED
HOW TO APPLY
Please email Rich Beal at [email protected] the following information a minimum of one month in advance of the tour, ideally six weeks or more if possible: Full Name Gender Date of Birth Passport Number Address Job Title Company Details of any previous visits to Turkmenistan Please also indicate where you plan to join the tour from (London, Beijing, Istanbul etc). We also require a deposit to be paid at this time as we start taking on administrative costs as well as an obligation to pay for the visa invitation as soon as we send off an application. We ask for a deposit of 50% of the tour fee. You must apply at least 4 weeks before the tour departure date as the Letter of Invitation that we need to obtain in order to facilitate the visa can take several days to be issued by the Turkmenistan Ministry of Foreign Affairs. We can arrange to have the visas issued on arrival at Ashgabat airport or any other point of entry to the country, but if you would prefer to have it issued at the Turkmenistan Embassy in your home country or have any questions at all about the visa process (it is rather complicated!) please contact us early! the LOI's will be issued to coordinate as closely as possible with the tour dates if you need extra days at each end of your journey please do let us know in advance of your application. If you are joining the tour from somewhere other than Beijing and buying a ticket via our offices we email the e-ticket voucher to you and also inform you if anyone else is joining the tour from your place of departure so that you can meet up on the way to join the tour. If you are purchasing your own flight ticket via alternate airlines or agents we need these flight details ASAP. We, unfortunately, can not accept any liability for delayed flights and any issue associated with times associated letters of invitations. It is entirely possible to join the tour by flying in from other destinations also. We can also accommodate people joining the tour after entering by land or sea, and a range of exit methods are available to those joining this tour. Single supplement is available on this tour at 50 USD per night, if you are travelling alone and wish to share a room to avoid this fee we will attempt to match you up with another traveller. You will also have to pay the visa issuing fee, at Ashgabat airport this ranges from US$80 to $130 (depending on nationality) payable in cash only.
CANCELLATION & REFUNDS
Please note that for this tour you are required to pay the fee for the issuance of the visa yourself. Due to the extended amount of time that it takes to have a visa authorized and sent to an Embassy of Turkmenistan it is much simpler to collect the visa on arrival at Ashgabat Airport, the fee payable here varies according to your nationality, its usually around US$100. The visa is stamped in your passport and is the same as it would be if issued at a Turkmen Embassy. If you insist on having your visa issued at an Embassy then please be sure to apply for the tour as early as possible. The deposit is non-refundable if the tourist cancels himself. If however we cannot arrange visas or for whatever reason, it is not possible to travel at the specified time (or you cannot make rescheduled dates) a full refund will be made. Should the client wish to cancel after visa application has been made, charges imposed on us will be paid out of the 50% deposit with the balance being returned to the client. If you have paid in full we will return 50% plus the balance of what is left after the cancellation fee we pay to our partners in Turkmenistan. If you book and cancel a plane ticket through us we charge only the airline’s cancellation fee. In all cases we return as much as we can and we do not take a fee for client's cancellation. Please be sure that you will definitely be joining the tour when you send all application details.
Please apply by 2nd September, 2021.
Tolbo Lake (Stain Lake)
Read full storyCross the roof of Central Asia this August from Osh to Dushanbe
Read full story[email protected] | + 86 10 6416 7544
27 Bei Sanlitun Nan (East Courtyard).
Chaoyang District. Beijing 100027. P.R China
中国北京市朝阳区北三里屯南 27 号 (东侧院),
邮编：100027
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