One of the most culturally interesting and scenically beautiful areas of the world lies in the area we once knew as Chinese Turkestan and we urge all travellers to make this trip before it too becomes a well worn route.

Fly via Tashkent in Uzbekistan to Urumqi in Western China to see Heaven Lake set amongst a mountain backdrop and surrounded by fir trees. Continue south to Kashgar, the town that was immortalised as the listening centre for both Russians and British in the days of the Great Game but which today is perhaps better known for its centuries old weekly market. Every Sunday close to 50,000 people arrive by foot, donkey, cart, camel and bus to sell or buy just about every conceivable type of goods that you can imagine. The faces, hats and animals make it a photographers paradise and one of the great "must sees" for any traveller.

From Kashgar travel west by road across the wild and desolate Turugart Pass to Bishkek in Kyrghyzstan, a land of grass steppe, rolling hills, soaring eagles and herds of horses. The colourful people are largely nomadic shepherds living in isolated yurt camps and the region is ideal for trekking and riding. Finally, re-enter Uzbekistan travelling into the Ferghana Valley where you can visit the silk works in Margheelan and the wonderful palace museum in Kokand before returning to Tashkent for the flight back to London.

All our itineraries are tailor-made, a suggestion is...

Day 1 Depart London
Day 2 Arrive Tashkent, fly Urumqi
Day 3 Urumqi
Day 4 Fly Kashgar
Days 5-6 Kashgar
Day 7 Drive Naryn
Day 8 Drive Bishkek
Day 10 Drive Karakul
Day 11 Drive Ferghana via Andizhan
Day 12 Ferghana
Day 13 Drive Tashkent via Kokand
Day 14 Fly London

Prices for a similar itinerary would start from approximately £2,750