Golden Eagle Luxury Trains – Republics Of The Silk Road
Code: GSR
Overview
Embark on a mesmerizing 14-day adventure aboard the Golden Eagle Luxury Train, traversing the historic Silk Road. Immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of Central Asia's cultural and architectural wonders as you journey through Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Turkmenistan, and Tajikistan. From the opulent cityscape of Almaty to the ancient splendors of Samarkand and Khiva, each stop unveils a new chapter in the Silk Road's storied history. Delight in guided tours of UNESCO World Heritage Sites, explore bustling markets and witness traditional crafts in action. Experience the allure of shimmering deserts, majestic mountains, and the vibrant heritage of Silk Road cities. With luxurious accommodations on the Golden Eagle Train, fine dining, and captivating excursions, this journey promises an unparalleled blend of history, culture, and indulgence. Your Silk Road odyssey culminates in Tashkent, leaving you with cherished memories and a profound connection to the legacy of this ancient trade route.
Tour Highlights
- Discover the 4,000-year-old art of Golden Eagle hunting at Lake Issyk-Kul
- Learn a new craft in a traditional Kyrgyz bread-making class
- Evening drinks reception on the beautifully lit Registan Square, Samarkand
- See the Darvaza Burning Gas Crater light up the night sky in the Kara Kum desert
- Explore the historic, UNESCO-honored cities of Khiva, Merv, Bukhara, and Samarkand
What’s Included
- Five-star pre tour hotel accommodation
- Private en-suite accommodation on the Golden Eagle train
- 13 Breakfasts, 12 Lunches, 13 Dinners
- 24-hour cabin attendant service
- Services of a UK-registered Doctor and medical facilities on board
- Arrival and departure transfers
- All gratuities on and off the train
- Luggage porterage throughout the journey
- Drinks allowance, including international wines with lunch and dinner
- Expertly guided off-train excursions as detailed in the itinerary
What’s Excluded
- International flights
- Visas fees & travel insurance
- All other personal expenses not specified in the itinerary
Itinerary
Day 1 I ARRIVAL IN ALMATY
Arrive at Almaty Airport, where you are met and transferred to the stylish five-star Intercontinental Hotel. On your first evening in Almaty, you will be invited to a champagne drinks reception before our exclusive Welcome Dinner.
Specially selected international wines are included with dinner and all meals during the tour.
Meals: Dinner
Accommodation: Intercontinental Hotel
Day 2 I Almaty Exploration / Golden Eagle Departure
Discover the charms of Almaty, Kazakhstan's largest city, known for its broad tree-lined boulevards nestled against the stunning backdrop of the Tien Shan Mountains. With its name derived from 'alma,' meaning 'apple,' the city is surrounded by flourishing apple orchards. Our morning city tour takes you to Panfilov Park, featuring the unique all-wooden Zenkhov Cathedral and Independence Square. In the afternoon, board the Golden Eagle, our exclusive private train, and settle into your well-appointed en-suite cabin. The evening is highlighted by a delightful Welcome Dinner on board.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Golden Eagle Train (Silver Class Cabin)
Day 3 I Lake Issyk-Kul / Eagle Hunting / Bishkek Exploration
Embark on a morning guided tour of the Museum of Petroglyphs at Lake Issyk-Kul, an open-air museum steeped in history and sacred significance. The site served as a sacred ground for Saka priests, with petroglyphs dating from the Bronze Age to the 10th century. Experience a captivating flight demonstration of Eagle Hunting, an ancient art spanning 4,000 years, and delve into the intricate details of this Kyrgyz nomadic tradition. In the afternoon, explore Bishkek, once a vital rest stop along the Great Silk Road. Visit Ala-Too Square, constructed in 1984 to commemorate the 60th anniversary of the Kirghiz Soviet Socialist Republic, and take a city tour of parks with rich Soviet history, featuring statues of Karl Marx and Friedrich Engels, as well as the Memorial for the Red Guards.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Golden Eagle Train (Silver Class Cabin)
Day 4 I Tashkent Discovery
This afternoon, we reach Tashkent, the capital city of Uzbekistan, and embark on a tour of this modern Soviet-style metropolis meticulously reconstructed after the 1966 earthquake. Our exploration takes us through the Old Town, where narrow streets are adorned with traditional homes and religious structures. A visit to a small library within this area grants us the privilege of witnessing one of Islam's most sacred relics—the world's oldest Koran. The itinerary continues with stops at the Railway Museum and the Museum of Applied Arts.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Golden Eagle Train (Silver Class Cabin)
Day 5 I Bukhara Marvels
Bukhara, an extraordinary city, underwent extensive UNESCO-sponsored restoration for its 2,500th anniversary in 1999, akin to Khiva. The pinnacle of our tour is visiting The Ark, the fortified residence of the Emirs of Bukhara, who were once rulers known for their authoritarian rule until the Soviet era. Explore the grandeur of Poi-Kalyan Square, featuring the iconic Kalyan Mosque, a living testament to traditional Islamic design. Wander through the mosque's expansive maksura rooms, pillar-domed galleries, and recessed niches, immersing yourself in a bygone era. Experience the city's vibrant energy as we venture into the bustling Trading Domes of Bukhara and convene at Lyabi-Hauz Square, a lively social hub surrounded by mulberry trees and local tea rooms. Depart the city to explore the enchantingly named 'Palace of the Moon and Stars,' once belonging to the Emir. In the evening, weather permitting, savor a barbecue on the station platform before our train departs.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Golden Eagle Train (Silver Class Cabin)
Day 6 I Merv Expedition
From Mary, we journey to Merv's ancient and predominantly unrestored remnants. A significant Silk Road stop, Merv briefly held the title of the world's largest city in the 12th century. In 1794, the city met its demise when the Emir of Bukhara demolished the crucial dam that sustained the population's water supply.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Golden Eagle Train (Silver Class Cabin)
Day 7 I Ashgabat Discovery / Darvaza Excursion
Ashgabat Discovery & Darvaza Excursion
Ashgabat, Turkmenistan's capital, often dubbed the 'Las Vegas of the Kara Kum,' lies between the Kara Kum desert and the Kopet Dag mountain range. This modern city is built upon the remnants of the Silk Road city of Konjikala, which was reconstructed extensively after the 1948 earthquake. The city's opulent fountains, golden domes, and towering modern structures contrast sharply against the desert backdrop. Highlights of our visit include exploring the National Museum and Kipchak Mosque. The Golden Eagle makes a scheduled stop at Ichoguz, providing the option to embark on a short journey to the renowned burning gas crater at Darvaza—an awe-inspiring spectacle, especially at night. Nestled in the Kara Kum desert, this 229-foot wide crater, known locally as the 'Door to Hell,' has been ablaze for over 40 years—a truly unique experience not to be missed.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Golden Eagle Train (Silver Class Cabin)
Day 8 I Khiva Exploration
Today, we venture to the ancient city of Khiva, with a history spanning 2,500 years. Positioned at the crossroads of the Silk Road, it has evolved from a crucial trading post to a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Rising majestically from the desert, Khiva unveils a treasure trove of remarkable architecture. As we return, explore the city's ancient walls containing impressive mosques, madrassas, bazaars, and minarets.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Golden Eagle Train (Silver Class Cabin)
Day 9 I Shakhrisabz / Amir Timur's Birthplace
Regarded as the birthplace of Amir Timur, the military genius inspired by Genghis Khan, we explore the UNESCO-honored statue of Amir Timur and his Ak-Saray Palace. This grand palace in Shakhrisabz, taking over 25 years to construct, was originally adorned with vibrant, intricately detailed mosaics featuring delicate calligraphic inscriptions from the Qur'an. An inscription Among the decorative facades indicates the completion date 798 (1395–1396 AD).
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Golden Eagle Train (Silver Class Cabin)
Day 10 I Dushanbe Exploration
This morning, explore Dushanbe, the capital of Tajikistan, situated along the Varzob River, and visit the lavish Kohi Navruz Palace. Accompanied by a knowledgeable local guide, unravel the intriguing narrative of this former teahouse turned palace. Wander through its stunning halls adorned with captivating chandeliers, discovering the dedication of the artists and designers behind this majestic creation. Following the tour, savor tea and local delicacies in the palace before returning to the Golden Eagle to resume our journey.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Golden Eagle Train (Silver Class Cabin)
Day 11 I Samarkand Marvels
The mere mention of Samarkand evokes the enchanting allure of the Silk Road, surpassing any other town in its evocative imagery. Established in the 6th century BC, Samarkand's resplendent architecture is a testament to its bygone prominence as a key Asian city. Notably, it thrived as the capital of the Mongol empire of Timur and his successors from the 14th to the 17th century. Today, we explore some of its most iconic sites, including the awe-inspiring Registan Square, the graceful Bibi Khanum Mosque, and the Ulag Beg Observatory, a pioneering Islamic astronomical site constructed in 1428. Prepare for an unforgettable evening as we transport you to the illuminated Registan Square. With the sun setting and night descending upon the ancient city, indulge in a mesmerizing light show that unfurls the rich tapestry of Samarkand's history and significance.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Golden Eagle Train (Silver Class Cabin)
Day 12 I Extended Samarkand Exploration
In the morning, delve deeper into Samarkand's history with a visit to the renowned necropolis Shakh I Zindah, a captivating array of mausoleums dating back to the 9th century. Our journey then takes us to the ancient settlement of Afrasiab, where a museum showcases ancient artifacts discovered during the excavation of the city. Among the treasures are the renowned frescoes from the Palace of Varkhuman, dating back to the 7th century. After a fulfilling morning, we return to the train for lunch, continuing our journey toward the Fergana Valley through Uzbekistan.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Golden Eagle Train (Silver Class Cabin)
Day 13 I Margilan / Rishtan / Kokand Exploration
In the morning, our journey leads us to the ancient city of Margilan, renowned for producing some of Central Asia's finest silk. A visit to the Margilan Factory, recognized as Uzbekistan's premier silk producer, offers insight into the traditional manual silk production process. From mulberry trees nurturing silkworms to skilled artisans hand-weaving vibrant ikat fabric on traditional looms, witness the meticulous craftsmanship involved. Continuing our exploration, we travel to Rishtan, celebrated for its world-renowned ceramic industry. Delve into the ancient craft's secrets with local artisan Rustam Usmanov, and experience the magic of pottery during a close-up demonstration by a master professional. Our journey concludes in Kokand, among Uzbekistan's oldest cities and a pivotal Silk Road trading post. Highlights include the grand Palace of Khudayar Khan, known as the Pearl of Kokand, and the Jami Mosque, a remarkable architectural gem. Returning to Tashkent, we cap off the day with a farewell dinner aboard the Golden Eagle.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Golden Eagle Train (Silver Class Cabin)
Day 14 I Departure from Tashkent
Enjoy breakfast on board the Golden Eagle before your transfer to the airport for your onward flight.
Meals: Breakfast
Dates & Prices
| Departure Dates | Tour Cost | More Info |
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Accommodations
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FAQs
Can I add airfare to the land package?
Yes, you can add airfare to a package. Let us know at the time of your reservation. Please note pricing and availability is always subject to change Prior to ticket issuance.
Can I change my reservation if I've made a mistake?
There is a $75 change fee (per person, per change) for any changes made to a reservation after it has been confirmed. Any passenger name change made to a booking reservation after it has been confirmed will result in a $100 per person per name change fee and is subject to availability, additional airline change, and/or cancellation fees. Additional fees may apply. For more details, please contact us.
Can I extend or modify my trip?
We will do our best to accommodate your request. Any modification must be arranged before the deposit is made and subject to availability.
Can I opt-out of certain activities on the trip?
While any unused portion of the trip is non-refundable, you can opt-out of certain included activities if you do not wish to participate in them. Please be sure to notify us prior to your departure date and notify your tour guide upon arrival. You will be responsible for any expenses incurred should you deviate from the tour during the scheduled tour itinerary. If you choose to deviate from the tour group on a day we are transiting from one city to another. You will also be responsible for your own transportation and expenses incurred.
Can I request adjoining rooms?
We can request adjoining rooms, however, requests cannot be guaranteed as it is based on hotel availability.
Can I select my seats on my flight during the booking process?
Seat assignments on your flight can be done directly via the airline. You can either select your seats at the airline check-in counter on the day of your flight, or after we issue your tickets, you may call the airline directly and pay the fee for pre-assign seats.
Can we book a triple room?
Triple rooms are available upon request for select tours. Please note hotels will provide a rollaway bed for the third traveler in a double room.
Do you offer and/or suggest travel insurance?
We recommend you purchase a travel protection plan to help protect you and your travel investment against the unexpected.
Do you work with Travel Agents?
To be one of our partner agents, please email agency@globotours.net
We welcome the opportunity to serve you.
How do I make a reservation?
Click the “Book Now” button on our website, or you may send us an email to info@globotours.net
How much time will I get to myself?
Each program is different. Whenever possible, we offer to modify the program to fit your requirements.
I am a solo traveler, can you match me with other solo travelers on my tour?
For privacy reasons, we do not pair solo travelers with one another. A single supplement fee will apply for solo travelers.
I have special dietary requirements, can you accommodate them?
Meals provided during your tour are based on local cuisine and menus. We can generally assist guests in communicating special meal requests to airlines, hotels, and restaurants but please be aware that they are not guaranteed. Please let us know at the time of booking your trip. We will notify our tour guides of any food allergies, but please note meal alternatives are subject to confirmation as they are based on the availability of the providing restaurant. For those with strict dietary needs, we recommend bringing pre-packaged food alternatives for your trip.
My outbound flight has been cancelled by the airline; what do I do now?
If your flight has been canceled, please liaise with the airline directly to book the next available flight. If, for any reason, you are unhappy with the alternate flight offered by the airline and decide to book a new outbound flight on your own, please note that the original return flight(s) will automatically be canceled if you are a no-show on your original outbound flight.
My package includes the arrival transfer, how do I know when/where to meet up with my driver?
Information on how /where to meet up with your driver is included in your travel documents. On arrival at the airport, please collect your luggage, make your way through customs, and enter the arrivals hall, where the driver will be waiting for you. Should luggage be very slow coming through, or should you have any issues with damaged or lost luggage, please make sure that you complete the necessary documentation within the luggage area. ONE MEMBER of the party should go through customs and into the arrivals hall to advise the driver of the delay. Please note that this person will not be allowed access back into the luggage area. You could also contact our local representative. Extra costs may apply if meeting your driver is delayed more than one hour following your scheduled flight arrival time.
What are the visa requirements?
Visa requirements for each destination are indicated in our Essential Travel Information on our website. Information is also available at the US Department of State website at https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/international-travel.html. It is the responsibility of travelers to obtain proper visas in a timely manner prior to the trip departure date.
What does Land Only means?
Land-only is a package tour without International and local airfare.
What does per person, double occupancy mean?
Per person, double occupancy means the price each guest pays when sharing a room.
What if I miss my flight or my flight is delayed, and I miss the beginning of my trip?
If your flight is delayed or you miss your flight, please notify us or our local representative (contact information is included in your travel documents) as soon as possible so we may inform our local representative of your updated arrival. Additional costs for airport transfer service may apply if you arrive later than the scheduled arrival date/time. If you arrive later in the itinerary and the group has moved to a different destination, it will be your responsibility to catch up and meet the group at that destination. We will provide you with the most up-to-date meeting information. Please note that Globotours cannot reimburse you for any unused portion of the trip.
What is included in your pricing?
Included features are specified in each tour.
What is not included in your pricing?
Anything that is not mentioned in the included features.
What is single supplement surcharge?
Single supplement is the additional cost to occupy the room alone.
What is your payment schedule?
Most packages require a non-refundable deposit, as indicated in the program to confirm the reservation, which will be applied towards the cost of your package. Your account balance is due 60-75 days prior to the trip departure date. Certain tours may require an additional non-refundable airline deposit at the time of booking. This is indicated during the booking process. More information can be found in our Terms and Conditions.
What level of physical fitness is required for the tour?
Depending on the program, expect a decent amount of walking and an occasional flight of stairs or some steps. We recommend you carefully consider your ability to meet the tour's physical demands. If you have any questions or concerns about your ability to meet the trip's requirements, we urge you to consult your medical practitioner.
What types of payments do you accept?
We accept Mastercard and Visa, bank transfers, and personal checks. When paying your balance by personal check, all checks must be received in full prior to the due date. Please make the check payable to Globotours and mail the check to the below address before your balance due date.
Globotours
2705 S. Diamond Bar Blvd., Suite 228,
Diamond Bar, CA 91765
What’s the cancellation and refund policy?
Fees will be assessed per person when you cancel your reservation. More information can be found in our Terms and Conditions.
When do I receive my travel documents and what it will include?
Travel documents will be mailed or e-mailed to you approximately 21 days prior to the trip departure date. It usually takes about 7 – 10 business days. You may access your booking confirmation page anytime by logging into your Globotours account on our website.