Beyond the Silk Road: Nomadic Cultures of Central Asia
We might throw around the term "nomad" to describe living on the road in the United States, but in Central Asia, the nomadic lifestyle is a way of life that is deeply rooted in culture, history, and the land.
From the circular "ger" tents in the middle of flocks of yaks, goats, and sheep, to modern cities built alongside ancient towns, exploring Central Asia is the chance to experience one of the most ethnically, culturally, and geographically diverse parts of the world.
We should probably mention this too: Central Asia is remote, rugged, and ridiculously beautiful. It's an adventure-loving travelers dream. Whether you choose to follow the famous Silk Road or trek on the Mongolian steppe, a trip with World Expeditions will change how you view the world, and your place it.
Experience the Tian Shan Mountains
The Tian Shan Mountains cover 80 percent of Kyrgyzstan, and their snowy slopes and alpine meadows have earned the country the nickname "Switzerland of Central Asia." Every traveler should make the adventurous trek to Son-Kul and Issyk-Kul, two remote lakes that sit on top of a treeless mountain plateau.
Sheer peaks, swift horses, nomads, and glaciers...that is what awaits in Kyrgyzstan.
Walk in the Steps of Alexander the Great
Visit some of the oldest towns in the world while following Alexander the Great's footsteps through Central Asia. Mountain exploration and cultural immersion mix in the Silk Road towns of Tashkent, Samarkand, and Bukhara.
Mosques, palaces, minarets, colorful bazaars, and a trip into Tajikistan's Fann Mountains? Sign us up.
Travel from Beijing to Samarkand
Some people like to dip their toes in to test the water, and others want to dive right in. For the divers out there, look no further than an odyssey along the Silk Road from Beijing to Samarkand.
This is, without a doubt, one of the world's greatest journeys. From the deserts of western China, across the Great Wall, and through the mountain passes and remote lakes of the Silk Road, this trip is an intoxicating mix of tradition, cultures, and landscapes.
Experience Nomadic Culture in Mongolia
For 5,000 years, nomads have shaped their lives on the western Mongolia steppe. Travel to this most geographically remote part of Mongolia to marvel at Tavan Bogd—the highest peak in the country—and the surrounding Altai mountain range.
Experience glaciers, mountain rivers, and the alpine pastures where nomads graze their yaks, goats, and sheep. You'll feel like you're a world away from your every day, and...you are.
A trip to Central Asia will challenge you, yes, but also scratch all your adventure itches. From historical towns to remote mountain ranges, the journey is one that you'll never forget.
Photos by World Expeditions
We want to acknowledge and thank the past, present, and future generations of all Native Nations and Indigenous Peoples whose ancestral lands we travel, explore, and play on. Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!
Do you love the outdoors?
Yep, us too. That's why we send you the best local adventures, stories, and expert advice, right to your inbox.
