The Central Asian countries of Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan, and Kazakhstan—three of the seven “Stans”—are a fascinating blend of nomadic traditions, Silk Road history, dramatic landscapes, and exceptional birding. Stretching from the Caspian Sea to China, these vast countries were once part of the Soviet Union before gaining independence in 1991. On our inaugural tour to the Stans, we explore ancient cities, breathtaking scenery, and the diverse birds and mammals that inhabit these remarkable landscapes.

Our journey begins in Samarkand, Uzbekistan, one of Central Asia’s oldest continuously inhabited cities and a former hub of the Silk Road. While venturing beyond the city to search for birds, we also take time to experience its remarkable history and architecture, including the magnificent 14th-century mausoleums and the iconic Registan Square.

From Bukhara, we explore the vast Kyzyl-Kum Desert in search of the Turkestan Ground-Jay before continuing to Zaamin, known as the “Switzerland of Uzbekistan,” where mountain landscapes provide opportunities for higher-elevation species. In Kazakhstan, we explore rolling valleys and dramatic mountain passes in search of raptors, White-crowned Penduline-Tit, Pallas’s Sandgrouse, and Mongolian Finch. Crossing into eastern Kyrgyzstan, we visit the Sogeti Plains for Asian Desert Warbler and other specialties before venturing into the Tian Shan Mountains, where spectacular scenery accompanies searches for Altai Accentor, White-browed Tit-Warbler, Ibisbill, and White-winged Redstart. Our adventure concludes in Kazakhstan at a rustic yurt camp, where we are ideally positioned to search for Asian Houbara, Saxaul Sparrow, and Yellow-eyed Pigeon.

Tour Highlights

• Search for Central Asia's most sought-after birds, including the regionally endemic Turkestan Ground-Jay, White-throated Robin, Ibisbill, Himalayan Snowcock, and Asian Houbara.
• Explore three fascinating Silk Road nations—Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, and Kyrgyzstan—where remarkable birding is paired with rich history and vibrant local cultures.
• Experience the architectural splendor of Samarkand and Bukhara, wandering UNESCO-listed cities adorned with dazzling blue-tiled madrassas, ancient mausoleums, and lively markets.
• Bird an astonishing variety of habitats, from the Kyzyl-Kum Desert and alpine meadows to wetlands, mountain passes, river valleys, and vast Central Asian steppes.
• Traverse spectacular mountain landscapes in the Tian Shan Range, exploring high-elevation passes with sweeping vistas, nomadic camps, and pristine alpine scenery.
• Stay in a traditional yurt camp beneath expansive desert skies, enjoying an unforgettable evening immersed in the landscapes and hospitality of the Central Asian steppe.
• Savor authentic regional cuisine, sampling Uzbek favorites like plov and manti alongside distinctive Kazakh and Kyrgyz specialties throughout the journey.
• Witness the incredible diversity of Central Asia as each destination reveals its own unique landscapes, cultures, wildlife, and birdlife across one unforgettable adventure.

Trip Itinerary

Itineraries are guidelines; variations in itinerary may occur to account for weather, road conditions, closures, etc. and to maximize your experience.

Thurs., May 6     Arrival in Samarkand

Welcome to Uzbekistan! Plan to arrive in Samarkand by late afternoon to join the group for a welcome dinner at a lovely local restaurant.
Accommodations in Samarkand (D)

Fri., May 7      Takhtakaracha Pass | Samarkand

We set out bright and early for Takhtakaracha Pass, located in the Zeravshan Mountains about an hour and a half from Samarkand. The pass holds historical significance as an important route traveled by Amir Timur (often referred to as Tamerlane) during the 1300s and is also well known for its fossil-rich geology. Reaching an elevation of approximately 5,800 feet, we begin our search for several exciting species, including the noisy Eastern Rock Nuthatch calling from rocky outcrops among the green hills. We also hope to find the striking Finsch's Wheatear, a close relative of the Pied Wheatear. In the open country, European Bee-eater, Lesser Gray Shrike, and Red-tailed Shrike should all be present, while stunning Red-headed Bunting sing prominently from exposed perches.

As we explore areas of scrubby vegetation, we look for migratory warblers such as Eastern Orphean Warbler, Lesser Whitethroat, Eastern Olivaceous Warbler, and Greenish Warbler. Our primary goal here is the beautiful White-throated Robin. This is also an excellent opportunity to find the often-skulking Common Nightingale, along with Gray-crowned Goldfinch, Indian Golden Oriole, Rock Sparrow, Tawny Pipit, and White-capped Bunting. Hume's Lark should also be in full song at this time of year. Keeping an eye on the skies, we may spot a variety of raptors, including the endangered Egyptian Vulture, Long-legged Buzzard, Cinereous Vulture, Himalayan Griffon, and Bearded Vulture.

After a rewarding morning in the field, we return to Samarkand for lunch. Later this afternoon, we visit magnificent Registan Square, one of the region's most iconic landmarks. Built beginning in the 15th century, its three grand madrassas are adorned with spectacular blue and gold tilework. The square is also an excellent place to watch for Alpine Swift overhead. After dark, we make a short visit to the mausoleum of Amir Timur, an especially memorable experience when illuminated in the evening.

Dinner offers another chance to sample Uzbek cuisine. Perhaps we enjoy plov, the traditional rice and meat dish cooked in a wood-fired cauldron, or manti, steamed dumplings filled with savory meat. Fresh non, the region's traditional flatbread, accompanies nearly every meal.
Accommodations in Samarkand (B,L,D)

Sat., May 8      Samarkand | Bukhara

Traditional Uzbek breakfasts feature fresh fruit, jams, yogurt, cheese, bread, and plenty of green tea. After breakfast, we continue exploring Samarkand with visits to the city's world-famous royal mausoleums. Built during the 14th and 15th centuries, these magnificent blue-tiled monuments are true architectural masterpieces.

Later, we return to Registan Square to experience the evening light and sound show projected across the madrassas. Through colorful illumination, traditional music, and narration, the performance brings Samarkand's remarkable history to life.

Following lunch, we depart for Bukhara, a drive of approximately four and a half hours with plenty of birding and rest stops along the way. Situated on the historic Silk Road, Bukhara is one of the best-preserved medieval cities in Central Asia, with nearly 2,000 years of history. Our hotel is located within the UNESCO-listed Old Town, making it easy to stroll the charming pedestrian streets after we arrive.

We settle in before enjoying another dinner featuring the rich flavors of Uzbek cuisine.
Accommodations in Bukhara Old Town (B,L,D)

Sun., May 9     Desert Birding | Bukhara

An early departure takes us into the Kyzyl-Kum Desert in search of our bird of the day: the remarkable Turkestan Ground-Jay. Most active during the first hours of daylight, this unmistakable endemic often calls from shrubby bushes while foraging across gravel and sandy flats. We hope to encounter several pairs, perhaps even feeding alongside the roadside.

Covering more than 100,000 square miles, the Kyzyl-Kum Desert is one of Central Asia's defining landscapes. Its name means "red sand" in the Turkic language, and its climate is one of extremes, with summer temperatures exceeding 104°F and winter lows dropping below -5°F. We visit a variety of locations, particularly damp patches and pools created by goat herders, where specialties such as Scrub Warbler, Desert Finch, and Blue-cheeked Bee-eater can often be found. Crested Lark is common, while Great Gray Shrike and Red-tailed Shrike frequently perch atop scattered bushes. Raptors such as Long-legged Buzzard and Western Marsh Harrier may also be seen overhead.

Wetland pockets provide opportunities to search for migrant shorebirds, including breeding-plumaged Red-necked Phalarope and Little Stint, along with a variety of additional waders. The desert also supports mammals such as several species of jerboa, Long-clawed Ground Squirrel, Red Fox, and Tolai Hare.

Returning to the hotel during the warmest part of the afternoon, we enjoy a short break before setting out to explore historic Bukhara. Free time allows you to wander the colorful markets weaving through the ancient streets, soaking in the remarkable sights, sounds, and aromas of this unforgettable Silk Road city. This evening, we gather for dinner at a traditional local restaurant.
Accommodations at Bukhara Old Town (B,L,D)

Mon., May 10      Morning Birding at Jeyran Ecocenter | Zaamin

We depart early for Jeyran Ecocenter, just south of Bukhara. This mosaic of fields, tree-lined streams, and reedy pools, surrounded by rocky semi-desert, attracts an impressive diversity of birds. As the sun rises, we enjoy breakfast in the field while watching species such as Menetrie's Warbler, Rufous-tailed Scrub Robin, and Sykes's Warbler singing conspicuously during the first hour of daylight. The riverside vegetation holds Common Nightingale and Scrub Warbler, though these can be more challenging to coax into view, while the elegant White-tailed Lapwing is usually much easier to admire. Colorful Indian Golden Orioles and European Rollers perch along roadside wires, joined by both European Bee-eater and the more regionally restricted Blue-cheeked Bee-eater.

Migrants such as Spotted Flycatcher, Eastern Olivaceous Warbler, Blyth's Reed Warbler, and Upcher's Warbler provide an enjoyable identification challenge. One of the area's most prized species is the Marbled Duck, with a few pairs breeding here in most years. Other wetland birds may include Red-crested Pochard, Clamorous Reed Warbler, Pygmy Cormorant, Purple Heron, and Western Marsh Harrier. Along the water's edge, we may also find small numbers of Collared Pratincole and Black-bellied Sandgrouse. Scattered copses provide convenient perches for Little Owl, while White-winged Woodpecker drums from nearby trees. Closer to Bukhara, we search additional habitat for Pied Bushchat and Clamorous Reed Warbler.

As temperatures begin to rise, we continue to Zaamin for the next stage of our adventure. Our roughly six-hour drive takes us across farmland and rolling hills with the snow-capped mountains marking the Uzbekistan-Tajikistan border. The journey is spectacular, passing through remote landscapes that seem almost untouched by time. We arrive at our hotel, situated at approximately 5,000 feet, where wonderful views of the surrounding snowy peaks await.
Accommodations in Zaamin (B,L,D)

Tues., May 11      Zaamin

Today we explore the diverse habitats around Zaamin, beginning early to take advantage of the morning bird activity. Among our target species are the remarkably abundant Rufous-naped Tit, the charming yellow-breasted form of Azure Tit, and Blyth's Rosefinch.

Siberian Stonechat and Rock Bunting are common here, often singing from prominent perches. We also have a good chance of finding high-altitude specialties including White-winged Grosbeak, Blue-capped Redstart, and Fire-fronted Serin. More widespread species include Cetti's Warbler, Corn Bunting, European Greenfinch, and Chukar, while Bar-tailed Treecreeper is a possible bonus.

The surrounding rocky slopes may also reveal Tolai Hare and Siberian Ibex. Although exceptionally elusive, this landscape is also home to Snow Leopard, Asiatic Black Bear, and Turkestan Lynx. While sightings of these secretive mammals would be extraordinarily rare, it's exciting simply to bird in such remarkable wilderness.
Accommodations in Zaamin (B,L,D)

Wed., May 12     Zaamin | Tashkent | Almaty, Kazakhstan

Before breakfast, we spend some time birding around the hotel grounds. It's always rewarding to see what species can be found right outside our door before beginning a travel day.

After breakfast, we depart for Tashkent, Uzbekistan's capital, approximately five hours away. Although we're only passing through, it's fascinating to see the city's blend of modern development and Soviet-era architecture alongside the colorful mosaics that have become familiar during our time in Samarkand and Bukhara.

From Tashkent, we board a short flight to Almaty, Kazakhstan, nestled at the foothills of the Trans-Ili Alatau Mountains. Kazakhstan's largest and most vibrant city is home to nearly 2.5 million people and offers a cosmopolitan atmosphere with easy access to pristine mountain wilderness just beyond the city limits. Upon arrival, we are met at the airport and transferred to our hotel in time for dinner.
Accommodations in Almaty (B,L,D)

Thurs., May 13      Kaskelyn Valley

About an hour from Almaty lies the beautiful Kaskelyn Valley, where rolling green hills rise toward the high mountains at the valley's end. Wild apple and apricot trees line the lower elevations before giving way to stands of aspen, birch, and fir. The valley is also known for its mineral springs, with several health resorts scattered throughout the area.

We spend the morning exploring this scenic valley in search of a wonderful variety of birds. Among our targets are the lovely Azure Tit (this time without the yellow breast), the abundant Common Cuckoo, and both White-throated and Brown Dippers along the streams. We also have an opportunity to find White-crowned Penduline-Tit, which nests in small numbers within streamside scrub. This is the only location on the tour where we search for the handsome Meadow Bunting, and Corn Crake has also been recorded here in previous years. If weather conditions are favorable, thermals may bring soaring raptors into view, including Booted Eagle, Golden Eagle, Bearded Vulture, and Himalayan Griffon.

The valley is also a good place to watch for Goitered Gazelle, a graceful species found throughout the Near East, ranging from Iran to northern China. The species takes its name from the enlarged lower throat developed by males during the breeding season.

By mid-afternoon, we return to Almaty for a well-earned break before gathering for dinner featuring Central Asian cuisine. Beshbarmak, often considered Kazakhstan's national dish, consists of broad noodles served in a clear meat broth and topped with meat and onions. Baursak, the region's traditional fried bread, accompanies nearly every meal. Sampling local specialties is one of the pleasures of travel, revealing how flavors evolve from country to country and region to region.
Accommodations in Almaty (B,L,D)

Fri., May 14       Kokpek Pass | Sogeti Plains

Leaving Almaty before the morning traffic builds, we make a roadside stop for White-capped Penduline Tit if we were unable to find it yesterday. Otherwise, we continue directly to Kokpek Pass, where the landscape quickly takes on a dramatic, almost prehistoric appearance. Located where tectonic plates meet, the pass marks the transition between the active Tian Shan Mountains and the semi-arid basins of Central Asia.

Birding here is excellent, and as we approach the highest point, spectacular vistas unfold in every direction. We expect to encounter White-capped Bunting, Rock Bunting, Pied Wheatear, and Rock Sparrow, although the scenery itself is every bit as memorable as the birds.

Continuing onward, we explore broad, dry, shrubby plains surrounded by low hills, where careful searching may reveal small numbers of Pallas's Sandgrouse. We also spend time around a small livestock watering area, an oasis that often attracts Mongolian Finch, Isabelline Wheatear, Gray-necked Bunting, Tawny Pipit, Eurasian Linnet, Greater Short-toed Lark, and Horned Lark. With a bit of luck, we may also find the beautiful Crimson-winged Finch. Raptors likely include Steppe Eagle, Black Kite, and Booted Eagle.

By evening, we arrive at our lovely accommodations overlooking spectacular Charyn Canyon.
Accommodations at Charyn Canyon (B,L,D)

Sat., May 15      Sogeti Plains | Kegen Plains | Cross into Kyrgyzstan 

Today is primarily a travel day as we make our way to Karakol in eastern Kyrgyzstan, but the journey is filled with rewarding birding stops. We cross vast expanses of remarkable habitat, ancient farmland, and eventually enter the domain of nomadic herders who continue to spend summers in the mountains living in traditional yurts.

Our first stop is the Sogeti Plains, a landscape reminiscent of the American West, with sweeping open country stretching toward distant mountain ranges. Asian Desert Warbler is often active here during the early morning, and we may also enjoy Desert Wheatear, which breeds in this area.

Continuing toward the Kyrgyzstan border, we make several birding stops where Rufous-tailed Rock-Thrush, Northern Wheatear, and Eurasian Skylark are likely. After crossing into Kyrgyzstan, we visit beautiful upland bogs that support Citrine Wagtail, Common Rosefinch, Ruddy Shelduck, and elegant Demoiselle Crane, among many other species. These expansive wetlands also provide opportunities to see soaring raptors such as Cinereous Vulture and White-tailed Eagle. We enjoy lunch in the field while taking in both the birds and the impressive scenery.

Later, we continue through picturesque traditional farmland where long-established agricultural practices continue to support an abundance of birdlife. Corn Bunting is common, while Common Grasshopper Warbler reels from within the cereal crops. Reedy ditches provide habitat for Paddyfield Warbler and Pallas's Grasshopper Warbler, and scattered trees host Common Rosefinch, Common Cuckoo, Red-headed Bunting, and Red-tailed Shrike. In this wonderfully traditional landscape, Corn Crake remains fairly common, giving us an excellent chance to coax one into the open.

By late afternoon, we arrive at our small, family-run guesthouse in Karakol, where we spend the next three nights. This pleasant town serves as a gateway for trekkers exploring the Terskey Alatau Mountains. Notable landmarks include the all-wooden Holy Trinity Cathedral, a Russian Orthodox church, and the distinctive Dungan Mosque, built for the city's Chinese Muslim community.
Accommodations in Karakol (B,L,D)

Sun., May 16        Chon Ashuu Pass

Today we venture into some of the most spectacular mountain scenery of the entire tour as we explore the Chon Ashuu Valley and Pass in the Tian Shan Mountains. Our drive begins through stony hillside pastures, an excellent place to search for the attractive Pine Bunting, before continuing into a stunning upland valley carved by a shallow, meandering river where we hope to find Ibisbill. Shrubby woodland along the valley slopes provides habitat for White-winged Grosbeak, Himalayan Rubythroat, Sulphur-breasted Warbler, Red-mantled Rosefinch, and Rufous-backed Redstart.

Birding our way up the valley is a memorable experience, with occasional nomad camps, herds of livestock—including domestic yak—and magnificent scenery at every turn. As we climb higher, we search for the elusive Altai Accentor while Yellow-billed Chough is often common overhead and raptors are always a possibility. At approximately 13,000 feet, we take slow, leisurely walks, allowing plenty of time to admire the breathtaking landscape while searching for birds. Gray Marmot may also be seen among the rocky slopes.

One of our most challenging targets is the striking White-browed Tit-Warbler. We spend time searching its shrubby juniper habitat on the hillsides while also watching for Blue-capped Redstart, Tree Pipit, Black-throated Accentor, and Blyth's Reed Warbler.

Returning to Karakol this evening, we enjoy another opportunity to sample regional cuisine. Ashlan-Fu, a spicy, vinegary Dungan cold noodle soup, is a local favorite and is traditionally paired with a crispy potato-filled piroshky.
Accommodations in Karakol (B,L,D)

Mon., May 17     Barskoon Pass

Today we return to the high mountains, this time exploring Barskoon Pass at approximately 10,400 feet, an otherworldly landscape that once formed part of the ancient Silk Road.

As we ascend through the semi-wooded valley, we make a series of birding stops in search of Fire-fronted Serin, Black Redstart, Plain Mountain Finch, Black-throated Accentor, Water Pipit, and both Red-billed and Yellow-billed Chough.

Near the summit, snow and ice still blanket much of the landscape, yet this is a remarkably reliable location for the beautiful White-winged Redstart. We also hope to encounter Ruddy Shelduck, whose goose-like appearance seems especially striking in this alpine setting. As we continue birding both near the pass and farther downhill, we search for Altai Accentor, Hill Pigeon, and Brown Accentor among the rocky scree. Throughout the day, we scan the surrounding slopes while listening for the distinctive calls of Himalayan Snowcock.

Lunch is enjoyed in a beautiful alpine meadow where Golden Eagle, Bearded Vulture, and Himalayan Griffon are frequently seen soaring overhead. During the afternoon, we search for any key species we have not yet found before returning to Karakol for another enjoyable dinner.
Accommodations in Karakol (B,L,D)

Tues., May 18      Karakol Region: Guide's Choice

Today's destination depends on which target species remain on our list. If White-browed Tit-Warbler has proven elusive, we visit another well-known location in search of this beautiful bird.

Areas of pine woodland provide opportunities for Willow Tit, Fire-fronted Serin, and Blue-capped Redstart, while upland streams support Brown Dipper, White-throated Dipper, and Blue Whistling-Thrush. We may also make another attempt for Himalayan Snowcock.

Additional possibilities include Eurasian Three-toed Woodpecker, Black-headed Mountain Finch, Spotted Nutcracker, and White's Thrush, making this flexible day an excellent opportunity to fill in any remaining gaps before leaving Kyrgyzstan.
Accommodations in Karakol (B,L,D)

Wed., May 19        Karakol | Almaty

Today we begin our return journey to Almaty, with plenty of birding stops along the way. If Corn Crake has eluded us over the past several days, we visit a productive area of farmland early this morning before retracing our route back into Kazakhstan.

One of our most memorable stops comes at an Islamic cemetery where the surrounding walls support a large colony of Rosy Starlings. The striking contrast of glossy black and pale pink plumage creates an unforgettable spectacle. Smaller numbers of Lesser Kestrels also nest here, often providing outstanding views of this attractive falcon.

Additional birding stops may reveal Gray-necked Bunting, Lesser Gray Shrike, and perhaps (Steppe) Great Gray Shrike before we eventually arrive back in Almaty for the evening.
Accommodations in Almaty (B,L,D)

Thurs., May 20       Almaty | Lake Sorbaluk | Yurt Camp

Leaving Almaty early this morning, we arrive at Lake Sorbaluk in time for excellent morning birding. Dalmatian and Great White Pelicans are regular highlights here, along with a wide variety of waterfowl, migrating waders, and other wetland birds. This Important Bird Area also supports Red-crested Pochard, Eurasian Oystercatcher, White-tailed Eagle, Garganey, Black-necked Grebe, and Western Marsh Harrier, all likely possibilities during our visit. Nearby, we search for the striking and near-threatened Little Bustard.

In the pools and canals surrounding the main lake, we hope to find the distinctive and endangered White-headed Duck, along with Ferruginous Duck, Great Reed Warbler, and Northern Lapwing.

Continuing our journey, we enter the arid landscapes surrounding our yurt camp, where livestock watering pools attract a remarkable variety of birds. Black-bellied Sandgrouse, Turkestan Short-toed Lark, Calandra Lark, Greater Short-toed Lark, Greater Sand-Plover, and many other species are possible here. Before arriving at camp, we visit several sites in search of beautiful Demoiselle Crane and elegant Caspian Plover, while Brown-necked Raven, Isabelline Wheatear, Imperial Eagle, and Crested Lark are all likely. We also keep an eye out for mammals, including Midday Gerbil and Great Jerboa.

We arrive at our traditional nomadic-style yurt camp in time to enjoy a beautiful desert sunset. The atmosphere is unforgettable, the food is excellent, and while the accommodations are rustic, they offer a memorable opportunity to experience the landscapes of Central Asia in a unique way.
Accommodations in a yurt camp (B,L,D)

Fri., May 21      Yurt Camp

Before sunrise, we head into the surrounding semi-desert in search of one of the region's signature birds, Asian Houbara. Using spotting scopes, we carefully scan the open plains for this elusive bustard while also searching for a variety of larks, raptors, and corvids before returning to camp for breakfast.

Later this morning, we travel a few hours across the desert to an area of open woodland in search of several regional specialties, including Saxaul Sparrow, White-backed Woodpecker, and Yellow-eyed Pigeon. Along the way, we should also encounter Spanish Sparrow, Great Gray Shrike, and Long-legged Buzzard on the nest. Reedy areas are carefully searched for the rare Black-headed Penduline-Tit before we return to camp for another relaxing evening beneath the expansive desert skies.
Accommodations in a yurt camp (B,L,D)

Sat., May 22      Yurt Camp | Almaty

This morning offers one final opportunity to search for any key species that may still be missing from our list. We may make another effort for the elusive Asian Houbara or revisit the best habitat for the beautiful Caspian Plover. Livestock pools can also provide improved views of several lark species, as well as interesting passage migrants.

After lunch, we begin the drive back to Almaty, making birding stops along the way as opportunities arise. Upon arrival, we check into our hotel near the airport with time to freshen up before gathering for a celebratory farewell dinner and one final review of the trip's impressive bird list.
Accommodations in Almaty (B,L,D)

Sun., May 23      Departures

You may depart from Almaty at your leisure today. Safe travels, and we hope you'll join us again on another Naturalist Journeys adventure.

Cost of the Journey

The cost of this 18-Day Central Asian tour is priced per person, based on double occupancy: $10,590 DBL / $11,890 SGL. This cost includes accommodations for 17 nights, all meals as noted in the itinerary (B,L,D), all land transportation and one internal flight, and all entry fees. All tips other than your NJ guide (optional) and local guide are included (this includes tips for your driver, lodge and staff, day activities, meals and other services).

Tour cost does not include: transportation from your home city to Samarkand and from Almaty, optional activities, or items of a personal nature such as laundry, telephone charges, beverages from the bar or personal, medical, repatriation and cancellation insurance.

Travel Details

Please plan to make air travel plans only after the minimum group size has been met. We will send you a confirmation email as soon as the trip has been confirmed.

Arrival Airport: Samarkand International Airport (SKD) in Samarkand, Uzbekistan 

Arrival Details: Please plan flights to arrive May 6, 2027, by 5 PM so you can join the group for dinner. 

Departure Airport: Almaty International Airport (ALA) in Almaty, Kazakhstan

Departure Details: Please plan flights to depart May 23, 2027, at your leisure

Travel Tips: Most flights from the US arrive in Samarkand in the morning. If you arrive on a morning flight and would like an early check in or plan to arrive early to rest from the flight, you can book at our first night tour hotel, the Malika Prime Hotel. It's located near the old city area and within walking distance of several tourist sites. 

• Nick Upton - Thailand and Asia Expert
  

  Nick has been pursuing birds since the age of six after being shown a Dartford Warbler by his father on a family holiday. After traveling and birding in the Pacifica and Southeast Asia, Nick settled in Thailand over twenty years ago and now has over a decade of experience in leading bird tours throughout Asia. Widely recognized as the leading guide for Thailand, he can find difficult species and interpret the ecology of the bird, as well as the conservation issues many species face.

  Other trips with Nick Upton - Thailand and Asia Expert
• Tina Greenawalt
  

  Tina joined NJ in 2023 and is Peg's right hand on the International Operations team. She grew up on the east coast and moved west after college. Tina was a biologist for the National Parks System for 10 years and worked in private industry as a biologist before that. Tina splits her year living in Cottonwood, Arizona and Fernie, British Columbia, where she spends her free time birding, doing photography, traveling with friends, trail running and mountain biking, and hanging out with her dogs.

  Other trips with Tina Greenawalt

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    January 24 - February 7, 2027

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