Frequently Asked Questions
To help you with any questions we have prepared a list of the most Frequently Asked Questions. If you do not find your answers here please take the time to Contact Us and ask your question personaly.
Why travel with Silk Road Treasure Tours?
Silk Road Treasure Tours specializes in travel to Central Asia and destinations all along the legendary Silk Road Routes. With a first-rate team in the US and overseas, we provide you with superior service; itinerary planning, travel arrangements, visas, smooth border crossing and the best in accommodation and tour guides. We'll prepare you with expert, first-hand advice and information on the sights you'll see and the cultures and people you will encounter. We'll take care of the details so you can delight in the treasures of the Silk Road countries.
Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan, Turkmenistan, Kazakhstan, Tajikistan, China Silk Road, the Caucasus, Iran, Mongolia, Turkey and beyond... explore the sites where civilization has flourished for millennia. Ride a camel, stay in a yurt, shop the bustling bazaars, meet the local people and enjoy their hospitality; we can customize your itinerary to fit your needs. We want you to get the most out of your tour and bring back memories you'll treasure forever.
When is the best time to visit to Central Asia, Caucasus and China?
From April to November for Central Asia, China, Iran and the Caucasus countries. Spring is one of the most beautiful seasons along the Silk Road routes. Nature emerges from the sharp continental winter; trees burst into leaf, and flowers bloom in brilliant colors. Autumn provides cool, clear, days – perfect for traveling. Spring and autumn are the seasons for a great many festivals in these regions.
What kind of tours do you offer?
Silk Road Treasure Tours offers an array of tours including cultural, historical, photography, adventure, eco-friendly, business, art, shopping, wine and trekking tours.
What type of guides escort the tour?
Silk Road Treasure Tours national guides are trained and experienced, dedicated, multi-lingual leaders. Many of our tour leaders are native to the regions in which they guide and have university degrees in history, art, architecture, archaeology and ethnography. Our national escort guides meet you upon arrival and stays with you throughout your travel.
How and when to book?
On our Small Group Journeys for 10-12 travelers, early booking is highly recommended to secure a place on the trip of your choice. Please contact us using the "Book Your Tour Now" form on our website as soon as you know when you'd like to travel. You can also call us at 1-888-745-7670.
Do I have to follow a set itinerary?
In such a remarkable part of the world, we can customize a tour for anyone and cater to any interest. Custom journeys are available for individuals and for large or small groups.
If I'm booking a few trips at once, is there a discount?
Of course! We appreciate your loyalty. Book your second Silk Road Tour and we'll give you a 5% discount.
How many people will be on the trip?
The maximum group size on all trips is 12. Groups usually consist of 6-10 (2013 info)
What's included in the trip cost?
Included in the price of each trip is your tour guide, accommodation, transfers, transport on tour, entrance fees to all the major highlights, all domestic flights, several meals and folk shows and some wine tasting on many trips. Please refer to the detailed itinerary for each trip for more information on what is included.
Can I extend my tour either at the beginning or end?
Absolutely! You can extend your tour either at the beginning or the end. If you have chosen the Central Asia Silk Road and would like to extend your tour to the Caucasus for instance, we will ensure smooth transfers between countries or regions.
What kind of information will I receive to prepare for my trip?
Once Silk Road Treasure Tours receives your deposit and completed reservation form, we'll send you a welcome package which includes detailed information about the region and your destinations, plus packing guidelines, visa regulations and application forms, a descriptive itinerary, insurance forms , and recommended reading and travel tips.
How do I obtain a visa?
All visitors to Central Asia, Caucasus, China, and Russia need to have a visa. We will take care of all the visa procedure all you have to do is to complete the relevant visa application forms, and send them to us along with your passports approximately two months before your departure date. The costs of consulate fee and services are not included in the land tour prices.
What standard of hotels should I expect?
We use quality hotels – some are 4 and 5 star hotels and some boutique hotels, all centrally located, equipped with modern conveniences and often traditionally designed and decorated. Adventure travelers can stay in a yurt or guest houses in the Kizilkum desert or near the spectacular Tianshan mountains.
Are there single travellers on your tours? What about couples or families?
Typically, our groups are a mix of single travellers, friends travelling together, and couples. Although families are welcome on any of our programs, we have designed some tours specifically to be family-friendly for all ages.
What is the food like? Will there be vegetarian or low-fat options?
Travelers can find a mix of Central Asia, Russian, Chinese and European dishes most everywhere, but local cuisine in Central Asia serves up savory lamb kebabs, chicken shashlik, dumplings, handmade noodles in Laghman (tomato based) soup, fresh salads, and breads. Bread in Central Asia has its own culture and traditions and comes hot from the clay oven, fried, sweetened, or stuffed with meat and onions as somsa.
Would it be possible for me to talk to someone regarding their experience on a particular tour?
We are able to provide contact information for previous participants who have taken a specific tour. All of these people have volunteered to be a reference and will be happy to talk to you about our tours and you can read about their experiances in our Testimonials section.
Is it worthwhile to have travel insurance?
We highly recommend that you purchase trip cancellation/interruption, medical and evacuation insurance. Details and an insurance application will be sent to you upon receipt of your trip deposit. Should you seek your own insurance, please supply us with the name, address, and phone number of your insurers, as well as your policy number.
Can you create tours specifically for our personal requirements?
We understand that group travel is not always suited to everyone, so we will be honored to create a customized itinerary based on your special interests, needs and style.
Are there any baggage restrictions?
All passengers are limited to two items of luggage each: One suitcase with a maximum weight of 20kg (approximately 44 lbs), one piece of hand luggage with a maximum weight of 5kg ( approximately 11 lbs).
Are the departures guaranteed?
Departures are guaranteed when we have the minimum number of travelers for any given tour. The minimum number on small group tours varies from two to six.
How much free time can we expect?
Our tours include daily activities however we appreciate your special interests and the desire to explore these ancient cities on your own. Our tours are reasonably flexible.
Can I have more details about the tour I'm interested in?
Yes. Please call 1-888-745-7670 or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. for a descriptive day-by-day itinerary of the tour that you are interested in.