How to book:
Booking with us is straightforward.
01 Select the Tour
Select from this brochure or simply browse our website to see our full range of tours and choose the style of travel that suits you.
02 Speak to an Expert
Get in touch by email or call one of our destination experts who will be able to answer any of your questions, check availability instantly and confirm prices if it’s a small group Journey.
03
Make a Booking
Visit your preferred travel agent or call us to pay a deposit and secure your booking. Unless requested earlier, the final payment is usually due 60-90 days before departure.
Golden Triangle & Tiger
(Tour Code: GTATFD)
9
Explore some of the most impressive UNESCO World Heritage sites and search for the elusive tiger at Ranthambhore National Park. The dazzling forts and monuments of Delhi are evidence of Mughal opulence and British sophistication. The Taj Mahal, the world’s greatest monument of love, is definitely a highlight along with visits to Agra Fort and the local markets. Not to be missed is the Pink City of Jaipur with its rich architectural legacy of Jaipur merchants.
Day 1: Arrive Delhi
On arrival at the airport, meet your Tour Manager who will assist you to transfer to the hotel in Delhi for two nights stay.
Day 2: Delhi
B D
Enjoy breakfast and an introduction to the tour before starting full day sightseeing of Old and New Delhi. Visit Qutb Minar, India Gate, Asia’s largest spice market and Chandni Chowk bazaar. Enjoy a welcome dinner.
Day 3: Delhi - Jaipur B D
Travel to Jaipur, the capital of Rajasthan. Evening free to explore the colourful bazaar of this pink city. Stay two nights at Jaipur.
Note: Extra night included in Holi departure.
Day 4: Jaipur B D
Start full day sightseeing tour with a visit to Amber Fort and the Maharaja’s City Palace, the Observatory, photo stop at
the Hawa Mahal and drive past the old part of the city.
Day 5: JaipurRanthambhore B
After breakfast travel to Ranthambhore National Park and enjoy a village tour. Stay two nights at the wildlife resort.
Day 6: Ranthambhore
B L D
Enjoy morning and afternoon wildlife safari at the Ranthambhore Tiger Reserve, home to many wildlife species.
Day 7: Ranthambhore - Agra
B D
We make our way for the last leg of our journey to Agra, en-route visit Keoladeo Ghana bird sanctuary, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Enjoy a rickshaw ride to see several species of Indian and international migratory birds. Stay overnight in Agra.
Day 8: Agra
checkout by 1200hrs and travel to Delhi, tour finishes by late evening with a direct transfer to Delhi International airport.
B D
Visit the Taj Mahal, the world’s greatest monument of love and the impressive 16th century Agra Fort a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Conclude the day with a visit to a marble inlay workshop to see artisans creating a masterpiece.
Day 9: Agra - Delhi Departure B Enjoy a leisurely breakfast and
What’s included: 08 Nights 4* deluxe accommodation Travel by chartered air-conditioned vehicle Group assistance and transfers Sightseeing as specified Meals as specified THO Tour Manager (minimum 07 people) Local English-speaking tour guide Monument entrance fees Jeep ride in Jaipur Rickshaw ride in Delhi 02 Wildlife safaris at Ranthambhore Bottled water while travelling All current collectable taxes.
Ranthambhore NP Delhi
Best of Rajasthan & Kerala
(Tour Code: BORAKFD)
4* DELUXE
18 DAYS / 17 NIGHTS EASY-PACED GUARANTEED DEPARTURE MIN PAX: 04 FROM NZ $6,010 PP
Explore the best of Rajasthan and Kerala on this incredible group tour. Great for first-time travellers to India who want to see a broad range of the best the entire country has to offer, the tour features breath-taking landscapes, spectacular cultural sites, one of India’s most interesting game reserves, and two dynamic regions.
Day 1: Arrive Delhi
On arrival at the airport, meet your Tour Manager who will assist you to transfer to the hotel. Stay two nights in Delhi.
Day 2: Delhi B D
Enjoy breakfast followed by a briefing before starting the full day sightseeing of Delhi. Visit Jama Masjid, Qutab Minar, India Gate and explore Chandni Chowk bazaar by rickshaw.
Day 3: Delhi – Jaipur B D
Travel to Jaipur, “The Pink City” for the blushing colour of its historic buildings. Jaipur is a princely wonderland of culture and heritage, brimming with architectural gems. Rest of the evening is free to explore and indulge in shopping at the colourful bazaars of Jaipur. Stay two nights in Jaipur.
Note: Extra night included in Holi departure.
Day
4: Jaipur
B D
Start a full-day sightseeing tour with an excursion to the majestic Amber Fort, constructed from yellow and pink sandstone and gleaming white marble. Back in the city, photo Stop at Hawa Mahal or Palace of Winds. At the City Palace Museum, our knowledgeable guide will enhance your tour of its extensive and carefully curated collection including miniature paintings, ancient weapons and traditional Rajasthani royal costumes. Late afternoon women will have Heena painting and men will learn the art of Rajasthani Turban tying.
Day 5: Jaipur – Ranthambhore B D
Travel to Ranthambhore National Park and enjoy a village tour. Stay two nights at Ranthambhore.
What’s included: 17 Nights 4* deluxe accommodation Travel by chartered air-conditioned vehicle Group assistance and transfers Sightseeing as specified Meals as specified THO Tour Manager (minimum 07 people) Local English-speaking tour guide Monument entrance fees Airfare Delhi-Cochin in economy class Overnight backwater cruise 02 Wildlife safaris at Ranthambhore Jeep ride in Jaipur 01 Basic Ayurveda massage Kathakali dance show Boat ride at Periyar Spice plantation visit Bottled water while travelling and all current collectable taxes.
Amber Fort, Jaipur
Day 6: Wildlife Safari B L D
Enjoy a morning and afternoon canter safari around the game reserve with an estimated area of 400sq km. Spot various wildlife species of animals, birds and reptiles and if lucky, see a Royal Bengal Tiger.
Day 7: Ranthambhore – Agra B D
We make our way to Agra, enroute visiting Keoladeo Ghana bird sanctuary, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Enjoy a rickshaw ride to see several species of Indian and international migratory birds. Stay two nights in Agra.
Day 8: Agra B D
An early start to visit the Taj Mahal, the world’s greatest monument of love and devotion with its superb craftsmanship of semi-precious stones inlaid in the marble. After breakfast visit the impressive 16th century Agra Fort a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which is admired for its splendour, architectural beauty and magnificent halls and Itmad-Ud-Daulah a mausoleum for its ‘Pietra Dura’ inlay and lattice marble screens. Conclude the day with a visit to a marble inlay workshop to see artisans creating a masterpiece in marble and precious gemstones.
Day 9: Agra – Cochin B D
Travel back to Delhi and board flight to Cochin. In the evening explore the capital of Kerala, known as God’s Own Country, and stay two nights in Cochin.
Day 10: Cochin
B D
Cochin’s sightseeing includes Cochin Harbour terminus where the Chinese fishing nets present a wonderful sight; Mattancherry Dutch Palace; The
Jewish Synagogue and St. Francis Church. Later visit the Hill Palace which was built in the 19th century. Later in the evening, you will witness a Kathakali Dance Show.
Day 11: Cochin – Munnar
B D
Enjoy a beautiful drive to Munnar, famous for its scenic beauty, marvellous waterfalls and Tea Plantations. We spent the day driving around the tea plantations, first visiting the local women who pick the tea leaves and then learning about how the tea is processed at the local factory. Overnight stay in Munnar.
Day 12: Munnar – Thekkady B D
After breakfast travel to Thekkady, on the way witness natural beauty adorned with green pastures of spice plantations, beautiful rivulets, cascading waterfalls and dense forests. Evening enjoy a boat ride on the expansive waters of the Periyar dam. The two hours of boating will give you a myriad of opportunities to observe wild animals grazing, drinking water and coming down from the dense forest that fence the lake. Spend two nights in Thekkady.
Day 13: Thekkady
B D
Morning visit to a Spice Plantation. This area is famous for cardamom, coffee and tea plantations and we will learn a little about the many uses of spice, both medicinal and culinary. Evening at leisure to explore the local market famous for its spice and local produce.
Day 14: Overnight Houseboat B L D
Morning travel to Kumarakom and enjoy a cruise through canals and
lakes. Observe the daily life of locals residing on the banks. All meals and overnight on a traditional houseboat.
Day 15-17: Alleppey – Kovalam B D
Wake up with the chirruping noise of the birds and disembark after breakfast. Travel to Kovalam and enjoy a basic Ayurveda massage with three nights at a beach resort.
Day 18: Trivandrum Departure B
After a leisurely breakfast, the tour finishes with a direct transfer to Trivandrum airport.
Departure & Pricing
(NZ$ PER PERSON From)
Tour notes: Departure during festival & fair.
Diwali Domestic economy airfare included: NZ$ 103 pp Add economy international return airfare: From NZ$ 1,420pp (Low season)
Holi
Houseboat
SRI LANKA
Classic Lanka
(Tour Code: CLFD)
4* DELUXE
14 DAYS / 13 NIGHTS EASY-PACED GUARANTEED DEPARTURE MIN PAX: 04 FROM NZ $3,961 PP
This small-group tour combines culture and relaxation, taking in some of Sri Lanka’s finest historical, archaeological and natural treasures while not forgetting the pleasure of a few days by the sea.
Day 1: Arrive Colombo
On arrival at the airport, meet your Tour Manager at the arrival lounge who will assist you with the transfer to the hotel in Negombo for overnight stay.
Day 2: Negombo – Dambulla B D
After a brief outline of the tour, travel to Dambulla, the hub of Sri Lanka’s cultural triangle. The remainder of the afternoon is free to relax or explore this small town. Stay four nights at Dambulla.
Day 3: Excursion to Anuradhapura B D
Today enjoy an excursion to Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka’s ancient capital and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visit the ruins and monuments, an engineering marvel, embellished with handsome stone carvings or sculptures, pleasure gardens, beautifully executed stone baths and ponds and a superb irrigation system of reservoirs and canals dated back to the 2nd Century BC.
Day 4: Hiriwadunna Village & Sigiriya B L D
Morning visit the 5th Century Sigiriya rock fortress. An afternoon bullockdrawn cart ride will take you through the village of Hiriwadunna. Cross a scenic reservoir by Oruwa (traditional boat), its long, narrow shape gliding effortlessly on the water, to visit a Chena cultivation, wherefrom the shade of a treehouse made of mud and thatched palm leaves, the village of Hiriwadunna can be surveyed. Mix and mingle with locals over a cup of Ceylon Tea before a home-cooked lunch is served by the local family.
Day 5: Polonnaruwa & Minneriya B D
Take an excursion to Polonnaruwa, another World Heritage Site, and visit monuments built by the South
What’s included: 13 Nights 4* deluxe accommodation Travel by chartered air-conditioned vehicle Group assistance and transfers Sightseeing as specified Meals as specified THO National Guide (minimum 07 people) Monument entrance fees Jeep safari at Minneriya & Yala National Park Cultural dance show in Kandy Turtle hatchery Village experience Tea tour Bottled water while travelling and all current collectable taxes.
Kandy
Indian Cholas dynasty in the 11th and 12th centuries. Later visit Minneriya National Park to search of elephants come to bathe and graze, as well as the variety of birds that come to fish in the shallow waters.
Day 6: Dambulla – Kandy B D
Leave after breakfast for Kandy, stopping en route in Matale, spice growing region, for a special insight into some unique Sri Lankan agriculture. Evening enjoy a drum and dance cultural show before concluding the day with two nights stay in Kandy.
Day 7: Kandy B D
Morning visit Peradeniya Botanical Garden and the Temple of the Tooth Relic. Evening explore the town and bazaar for local handicrafts and visit a gem museum.
Day 8: Kandy – Nuwara Eliya B D
After breakfast leave for Nuwara Eliya and enjoy the scenic ride to the tea state. See lush green land filled with miles of tea plantations. Stay two nights in Nuwara Eliya.
Day 9: Nuwara Eliya (Tea Tour) B D
Wake up to the freshness of the tea garden, enjoy a leisurely breakfast and get ready for a tea garden tour. The tea industry in Sri Lanka (Ceylon) is over 150 years old. It is a traditional industry commenced by the British when Ceylon was a colony. Vestiges of the colonial heritage are still evident, particularly in the tea-growing regions. Meet tea experts and scientists at the Tea Research Institute and learn about the latest scientific discoveries. Sharpen your tea-tasting skills with experts. The remainder of the day is free to relax and enjoy the beautiful surroundings.
Day 10: Nuwara Eliya – Yala
D
Travel to Yala, famous for its national park, enjoy a scenic ride through small towns, and arrive late afternoon. Evening free to explore and stay overnight at Yala.
Day 11: Yala – Beach Stay
Dambulla
Day
12:
Day Excursion
D
After breakfast enjoy a day excursion and visit the Mask Factory Museum at Ambalangoda, then to Kosgoda Turtle Hatchery, operated by the Wildlife Protection Society of Sri Lanka to protect endangered turtle species from extinction. Before returning we explore Galle Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Day 13: Beach Resort
Enjoy a leisurely breakfast as the day is free to relax on the beach.
Day 14: Colombo Departure B
Enjoy leisurely breakfast Tour finish by afternoon with a direct transfer to Colombo international airport.
D
After breakfast take a morning jeep safari to Yala National Park to Spot varieties of wild animals, birds and reptiles. Later travel to your next destination and enjoy three nights at the beach resort.
Women’s Getaway To Sri Lanka
(Tour Code: WGTSLFD)
14 DAYS / 13 NIGHTS EASY-PACED GUARANTEED DEPARTURE MIN PAX: 04 FROM NZ $4,311 PP of Sri Lankan recipes with a handson cooking class. Learn to cook a few Sri Lankan dishes like meat, vegetable and a traditional salad. Subsequently, enjoy a traditional lunch along with the dishes you have prepared.
This tour combines culture and relaxation, taking in some of Sri Lanka’s finest historical, archaeological and natural treasures, tea plantations, local experiences, shopping and the pleasures of a few days by the sea. This is a leisure-paced tour and an excellent all-around introduction to Sri Lanka.
Day 1: Arrive Colombo
On arrival at the airport, meet your Tour Manager at the arrival lounge who will assist with the transfer to the hotel. Stay for two nights in Negombo.
Day 2: Negombo B D
Enjoy a guided sightseeing tour of Negombo. Walk down the small fishing villages on the outskirts of Negombo to witness the large open air fish market. Later continue the city tour to visit the
Dutch church and Port, St. Mary’s Church and Temple. Evening enjoy welcome dinner at a local restaurant serving Sri Lankan Cuisine.
Day 3: Negombo – Dambulla B D
Today travel to Dambulla, on our way we stop by roadside fruit market to taste the seasonal fruits. Later visit the Dambulla Cave Temples an UNESCO World Heritage Site, the complex spans five caves and contains over 150 Buddha images, some which date as far back as the 1st century BC. Stay three nights in Dambulla.
Day 4: Yoga & Cooking Class B L D
Wake up early for a yoga session. Explore Dambulla’s largest vegetables and fruits wholesale market. The harvest from the surrounding fields and villages is brought into the market for distribution to the rest of the country. Later we travel to a nearby organic farm to uncover the secrets
Day 5: Excursion Sigiriya & Minneriya National Park B D
Discover the 5th century ancient clifftop fortress of Sigiriya, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. These imposing citadel sites are known as “Lion’s Rock” and explore the ruins of ancient palaces, moats, shrines, frescoes and water gardens as you take in commanding vistas of the misty forests beyond. Afternoon proceed for a wildlife safari at Minneriya National Park. The Park is based largely around a huge tank (reservoir) and serves as an important gathering place for Sri Lanka’s large elephant population. Besides elephants, Minneriya is also
What’s included: 13 Nights 4* deluxe accommodation Travel by chartered air-conditioned vehicle Group assistance and transfers Sightseeing as specified Meals as specified THO Tour Manager (minimum 07 people) Monument entrance fees Tuk-Tuk ride Wildlife Safari at Minneriya & Yala National Park Cooking class Spice plantation visit Cultural dance show in Kandy Tea tour & high tea Bottled water while travelling and all current collectable taxes.
Nuwara Eliya
Sigiriya
4* DELUXE
home to many species of mammals like the sambar deer and sloth bear.
Day 6: Dambulla – Kandy B D
Today we travel to Kandy, en-route visit Matale Spice Plantation where you can see how herbs and spices are grown in their natural environment. Learn their medicinal value and use in Sri Lankan cuisine to enhance the taste of speciality meals. Later travel to Kandy and walk around the Royal Botanical Gardens of Peradeniya, these gardens have a long history dating back to the British Era. Now the garden houses thousands of beautiful plant species brought from around the world. Stay two nights in Kandy.
Day 7: Kandy B D
Morning we enjoy a guided sightseeing tour of Kandy and visit the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic of Buddha an UNESCO World Heritage Site. Then walk around the Upper Lake area to enjoy the view of Kandy. Later visit Gem Museum and watch a short film on Gem Mining in Sri Lanka then explore the shop attached showcasing the finished jewellery. In the evening enjoy the spectacular Kandy Cultural Show.
Day 8: Kandy – Nuwara Eliya B T D
Travel to Nuwara Eliya the ‘Little England’ of Sri Lanka, is set against
beautiful backdrops of mountains, valleys, waterfalls and tea plantations. Visit a Tea Factory to witness the entire process of tea making, the rolling, withering, and packaging. You will also get an opportunity to taste a fresh cup of tea and buy some as a souvenir. Evening enjoy Hi-Tea at the Colonial Hotel. Stay overnight in Nuwara Eliya.
Day 9: Nuwara Eliya - Ella - Yala B D
We wake up early and travel to Yala, en-route visit Ella. Climb the Ella rock and take a Tuk-tuk ride to visit nine arch bridge which is one of the iconic bridges in Sri Lanka. Continue to Yala and Stay for two nights.
Day 10: Yala B D
Get ready for an exciting wildlife jeep Safari at the Yala National Park. The highlight is the large herd of elephants, sighting of leopard, a large variety of water birds, sloth bear, spotted deer, toque monkeys, mongoose and crocodiles.
Day 11 - 13: Yala – Beach Resort B D
Morning travel to Beruwela, en-route visit Galle and enjoy a guided walk through Galle’s historic 17C Dutch Fort a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This fascinating excursion will give you a memorable glimpse into life within Galle Fort – one of the best-
preserved Colonial Forts in Asia. Rest and relax as you stay three nights at Beruwala/Ahungalla beach resort.
Day 14: Beach Resort - Colombo B Enjoy leisurely breakfast Tour finish by afternoon with a direct transfer to Colombo international airport.
“THO staff were very professional and at no time did I feel deserted. Excellent service, good accommodation and I would highly recommend to anyone.”
– Wendy
Minneriya NP
Yala
PHILIPPINES
Philippines Must See
(Tour Code: PMSFD)
12 DAYS / 11 NIGHTS EASY – MODERATE GUARANTEED DEPARTURE MIN PAX: 04 FROM NZ $5,569 PP
On this 12-day active adventure, you’ll set out from Manila to explore four of the country’s most idyllic islands. Discover the best of the Philippines as you paddle, snorkel, hike, and fly across the country. Begin in Manila, then fly south to Bohol and see the stunning Chocolate Hills. In Cebu visit the famous Magellan’s Cross, Lapulapu’s monument an ancestral home of prominent Cebuanos and the Kawasan Falls. Continue west and end the adventure in Puerto Princesa and the ever popular El Nido.
Day 1: Arrive Manila
On arrival at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport, you will be met
by Tour Manager who will assist you with the transfer to the hotel. Stay two nights in Manila.
Day 02: Manila City Tour B L D
After a leisurely breakfast and a short briefing about the tour enjoy guided sightseeing exploring Manila. We start with the financial district of Makati and visit the first international airport terminal in the Philippines now a trendy restaurant called Blackbird, the American Cemetery, Rizal Park then to the local market and one of the oldest and largest Chinatowns in the world. Lunch will be served at a local
restaurant. In the evening after a quick wash and change gather at the main restaurant for a welcome dinner.
Day 03: Manila – Bohol B
After breakfast transfer to board flight to Tagbilaran, the principal gateway and capital of Bohol. On arrival meet and transfer to the hotel. The rest of the day is free to relax or take a stroll in the local market. Stay two nights in Bohol.
Day 04: Countryside Excursion B L
Start your full-day tour of the Bohol countryside, by visiting the centuries old Baclaon church, a man-made
What’s included: 11 Night’s accommodation Travel by air-conditioned vehicle and ferry Group assistance and transfers Meals as specified THO Tour Manager (minimum 07 people) Local English-speaking tour guide Monument entrance fees Ferry Bohol to Cebu Airfares Manila – Bohol & Cebu – Puerto Princesa in Economy Class Sightseeing as specified Bottled water while travelling and all current collectable taxes.
Bohol
forest, the Tarsier sanctuary and the Chocolate Hills, several hundreds of uniformly shaped limestone hills that turn brown like chocolate during the dry season. Later proceed to Loboc town and enjoy cruising on the Loboc river passing riverside villages, mangroves and nipa palm with lunch on board.
Day 05: Bohol – Cebu B L
After breakfast, transfer to Tagbilaran seaport, for your fast craft ferry to Cebu. On arrival meet your tour guide and have lunch at a local restaurant followed by half-day sightseeing visiting Fort San Pedro, the Basilica Minore del Santo Nino and Taoist Temple in the upscale Beverly Hills Subdivision. Stay two nights in Cebu.
Day 06: Excursion Kawasan Falls B L
The day begins bright and early as your guide will take you to see the picturesque Kawasan Falls, around 3.5 hours away from Cebu City. The light hike will take you through the different “levels” of the falls, with the opportunity to take a refreshing dip in each of the natural pools formed by each waterfall. Late afternoon is free to explore the popular shopping areas for handicrafts.
Day 07: Cebu – Puerto Princesa B
Today you will be transferred to Mactan Airport for your onward flight to Puerto Princesa. On arrival, transfer
to the hotel and spend rest of the day in leisure. Stay two nights in Sabang.
Day 08: Underground River NP B L
After breakfast proceed to board the boat to the Underground River National Park, the 8.2-kilometre-long underground river that boasts jawdropping cave formations, stunning limestone cliffs and pristine water. After visiting the UNESCO World Heritage in Palawan, a sumptuous lunch will be served.
Day 9: Puerto Princesa – El Nido B L
After an early breakfast travel to El Nido. Enjoy the scenic ride with lunch and photo stops. Stay three nights in El Nido.
Day 10: Island Hopping Tour
Today get ready for tour “A” Island Hopping as we travel by motorboat to witness breathtaking views and magnificent rock formations, limestone cliffs, clear waters of Big Lagoon, Entalula Island, Secret Lagoon, Seven Commandos and Shimizu Island. You may opt to swim, snorkel, or just relax and take pictures on one of the islands while the crew set up and prepare your lunch.
Day 11: El Nido Free Day B D
Day 12: El Nido - Departure B
After breakfast tour concludes with a transfer to Lio Airport for your flight to onward journey.
Departure & Pricing (NZ$ PER PERSON From)
Enjoy leisurely breakfast as the day is free to relax and enjoy the hospitality of your resort. Evening we meet at a restaurant to enjoy a farewell dinner. Tour notes:
El Nido
Puerto Princesa
THE STANS
Uzbekistan
of Two Stans (Tour Code: BO2SFD)
Uzbekistan, Turkmenistan
15 DAYS / 14 NIGHTS EASY - MODERATE GUARANTEED DEPARTURE MIN PAX: 04 FROM NZ $7,476 PP
Highlights: Tashkent – Samarkand – Bukhara – Khiva – Ashgabat – Mary – Ashgabat
Step into the heart of the ancient Silk Road, where history, architecture, and culture collide. This immersive journey through Uzbekistan and Turkmenistan invites you to explore majestic caravan cities, glittering domes, vast deserts, and timeless traditions. From the regal blue mosaics of Samarkand to the surreal burning crater of Darvaza, this two-country adventure is a gateway to one of the most fascinating and lessertraveled corners of Central Asia.
Day 1: Arrive Tashkent (Uzbekistan)
On arrival meet and greet and transfer to the hotel, remaining time at leisure. stay two nights in Tashkent.
Day 2: Tashkent B D
After breakfast, visit the Museum of Applied Art, Independence Square, Alisher Navoi Theatre Square, Romanov Palace and famous Madrasahs and Mausoleum. Afternoon stroll through the huge Chorsu bazaar.
Day 3: Tashkent – Samarkand B D
Travel to Samarkand, one of the oldest existing cities in the world and the oldest in Central Asia. Afternoon visits the famous Registan Square and madrassahs built in the 17th century. Stay two nights in Samarkand.
Day 4: Samarkand B D
This morning, see Gur Emir, the mausoleum of Tamerlane, the grandest Bibi-Khanum mosque, the Siab Bazaar and Shahi Zinda Necropolis. In the afternoon, we visit Ulugbek’s observatory, constructed in 1428-1429 to see the ancient settlement of Afrosiab.
Day 5: Samarkand – Bukhara B D
Travel to Bukhara, en-route stop at Shakhrisabz, the birthplace of the Great Tamerlane and visit remnants of Ak-Sarai Palace, Dorus Tilavat
What’s included: 14 Nights’ accommodation Meals as specified Travel, excursions, and sightseeing by charter air-conditioned vehicle Entrance fees to the monuments and sights Accompanying tour manager (7 Pax & Above) A local English-speaking guide Economy class airfare from Ashgabat - Mary - Ashgabat Bottled water while on the tour Current collectable taxes.
Cemetery and KokGumbas mosque. Stay three nights in Bukhara.
Day 6: Bukhara
B D
Today, you’ll explore the gem of medieval Islam and visit Lab-i-khauz, famous Madrassahs, Ark of Bukhara, Mosques Balakhauz Mosque and Chashma Ayub. Conclude your day with a visit to handicraft workshops featuring block printing, metal chasing, suzani embroidery etc.
Day 7: Bukhara
B D
Continue your Bukhara sightseeing with an excursion to Sitora-iMokhikhosa, Bahauddin Naqshbandi Mausoleum, dedicated to the famous 14th century Sufi spiritual leader. Afternoon is free to relax or personal exploration.
Day 8: Bukhara – Khiva
B D
Travel to Khiva, across the famous Kyzyl Kum desert. We will make several photo stops to see the desert flora and fauna. Stay two nights in Khiva.
Day 9: Khiva
B D
Visit the Kalta Minor Minaret, Kurkna Ark Fortress, Madrassahs and Mausoleums in the Citadel which remains largely untouched, preserving the historical charm despite modern development. In the afternoon, visit the Friday Mosque and the 19th century Tash Hauli Palace including the harem.
Day 10: Khiva – Darwaza (Turkmenistan)
B D
Today involves extensive travel from Uzbek to Turkmenistan, crossing the border at Shavat, transfer overland to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Kunya-Urgench, the former glorious capital of the medieval Khorezmshah Empire. Highlights include visits to various mausoleums as well as the minaret of Kutlug Timur and al Mamun’s Academy of Sciences. Stay overnight in Darwaza.
Day 11: Darwaza Crater –Ashgabat
B D
After breakfast visit water and clay craters. Later drive to Ashgabat and visit Neutrality Arch, Independence Park, Earthquake Memorial Complex, Ertogryl Gazi Mosque, Presidential Palace, National Museum of History (Tuesday closed). Stay overnight in Ashgabat.
Day 12: Ashgabat – Mary
visit the local History Museum. Stay overnight in Mary.
Day 13: Mary – Ashgabat
B D
Morning fly back to Ashgabat and visit the monument and park of Independence and the impressive Ertoghrul Ghazi Mosque. In the afternoon, drive north to Darvaza and its captivating Flaming Crater. Upon arrival, enjoy a leisurely walk around the crater at sunset, followed by a delicious nomadic campsite dinner. Return to Ashgabat later in the evening. Stay two nights in Ashgabat.
Day 14: Ashgabat
B D
Today will be your final day in Ashgabat, so make the most of it. Visit the Old Nisa Fortress, the former residence of the Parthian Empire. After lunch, explore the colourful Russian Bazaar. Later, continue to the National Carpet Museum which exhibits an interesting collection of hand-made Turkmen carpets and various carpet objects.
Day 15: Ashgabat Departure
After breakfast tour finishes with a direct transfer to the international airport. Departure & Pricing
B D
Early airport transfer for our flight to Mary. On arrival, we go to the ancient and glorious city of Merv; a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Later
Tour notes:
Each country will have a separate tour manager. Domestic economy airfare included: NZ$
Turkmenistan
BOOKING TERMS AND CONDITIONS
All space and room allocations are subject to availability at the time of booking.
The $250 per person discount applies only to selected Small Group Journey departures for new bookings made with a deposit or full payment on or before 30th July 2026.
A non-refundable deposit of $500 per person is required at the time of booking to secure your reservation.
Full payment is due 60–90 days prior to departure, unless an earlier payment is requested.
All package prices displayed under THO Small Group Journeys are per person, based on the specified departure date.
For detailed booking conditions, please visit: https://totalholidayoptions.co.nz/booking-condition
Responsible Tourism
Low Emission Vehicles
Socially Conscious Hotels Tourism
Giving back through non profitable Organisations
Not promoting tours that cause mistreatment to animals
Local Guides
Suppaorting Community Tourism
e-Documentation
