2026 –  Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, Kazakhstan and Beyond

Prepare to be amazed by our caravans and the kingdoms of Marco Polo along the legendary Silk Road! (The Stans are so popular this year that hotels are near capacity.) You will step back in time for unforgettable days, each one about discovery, and you’ll really get to connect with the people. Rather than trying to navigate on your own, we make it as seamless and easy as possible for you to enjoy Central Asia, but one must always visit these regions with patience.

We have a wonderful group of AFS travel lovers and a couple of new friends on this trip. It’s complex to divide up, but at present there are 16 on the pre- or post-extensions, with 22 total in the original main group. Connect now on your private Facebook group page to get to know each other and to discuss your air options. Now is the time to consider Google Flights for Turkish, Qatar, or Emirates as the best choices. See more below. Also, I urge you to consider travel insurance for this long journey. Deanna has been deep-diving into research for these regions, and she is thrilled to lead you. You can reach her on cell at 404-401-1740.

Trip Tips are designed to answer trip-related questions. It’s your responsibility to read this information. Updates and addenda will be posted here. Some travelers have lost their entire trip for not reading what we send on visas, air details, inoculations, etc. Check back from time to time.

Payment dates –  Your final payment 50% Apr 14 & Final May 14

We use WeTravel to manage payments and booking information securely. Just follow the steps on the form to complete your payment.

Paying by credit card? There’s a small processing fee: 2.9% for Visa or MasterCard, and 3.9% for American Express. There’s now a 1% fee for electronic check payments, since our processor recently updated their policies to match the banks.

Prefer free? Just mail a paper check to AFS at 1907 Daniel Green Court, Smyrna, GA 30080.  One quick favor: be sure to select the country on the memo line —it helps us keep everything organized. Thanks!

Your fearless GTL (Gracious Trip Leader, not a guide but a liaison between our guides and group to ensure things run smoothly.)

 Deanna, Atlanta’s fearless traveler and AFS standout since 2017. She’s explored 60+ countries (mostly solo), and with degrees from SCAD, she’s your go-to for eye-catching social media.

A tech whiz with an IT/Communications background, Deanna’s also your fix-it expert. When she isn’t solving tech issues, she’s skiing, snorkeling, hiking, or hitting the gym. After 8 years of studying French, she always has fresh travel tips.

Deanna’s leadership and energy inspire every group. When she leads, adventures turn unforgettable. Ready for a trip you’ll never forget? With Deanna, you’re in for the journey of a lifetime.

Trip Prep:
• Read the revised Heading Abroad with AFS, especially if you are new to AFS.
• Ensure your passport is valid 6 months after return date with two blank pages – these are Visa pages, not addendum pages.  Take a photo of your passport to store in the cloud or bring a copy. If you lose your passport, US embassies now except a digital copy from your email.
• To speed through US Customs download Mobile Passport. Look in your App Store for details.
• Notify bank and cc company of travel dates so they don’t block charges.
• All airline rules differ. It is imperative to read your airline rules on their website to ensure a smooth departure! Always check your flight before departure.

Everyone keeps their info traveling on their phone. But what happens if you lose your phone? Always keep a paper copy of your important papers, including airline tickets, just in case.

Visa – Yes See below

How to Get a Visa for Central Asian Countries (for U.S. Citizens)

Traveling through Central Asia as an American has gotten a lot easier in recent years, but the rules aren’t the same everywhere. Here’s what you need to know to avoid visa headaches in Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, and Turkmenistan as of early 2026.

Kazakhstan

Visa-Free Entry

• Duration: Up to 30 days for tourism.
• Requirements: Just show your valid U.S. passport when you arrive. That’s it—no application, no fees, and no paperwork before your trip.

Kyrgyzstan (Post-Tour)

Visa-Free Entry

• Duration: Up to 60 days for U.S. citizens (though 30 days is common; extensions are possible if needed).
• Requirements: Bring your passport and you’re good to go. No need for an e-visa or visa on arrival.

Uzbekistan

Visa-Free Entry (as of January 1, 2026)

• Duration: 30 days for tourism.
• Requirements: U.S. citizens only need a valid passport. No visa application or fees are required.

Special Note:   In Uzbekistan, the hotels register you automatically with the authorities. This is done online when you check in at the hotels, and you do not need to worry about it.

Tajikistan

Visa-Free Entry

• Duration: 30 days for tourism.
• Requirements: U.S. citizens only need a valid passport. No visa application or fees are required.

Turkmenistan (Pre-Tour)

Visa on Arrival

How to Get It:  Before your trip starts, we will send you a copy of the pre-approved visa invitation letter (LOI). You need to print it out, and carry it with you. Upon arrival at Ashgabat International Airport, you follow the “VISA” sign. At the visa counter, you show your invitation letter, and you will be asked to pay the visa fees, and then the visa will be issued and stuck into your passport on an empty page (the visa takes a full page). They will tell you how much exactly you have to pay, but it’s approximately USD 110 per person. The money has to be paid in US Dollars and in cash. Make sure to have crisp and nice USD notes. Wrinkled banknotes or notes with handwriting on them will not be accepted.

• Tourist Visa: The visa will be valid for the duration of your planned stay in the country. Tourist visas are only issued if you are on a guided tour. Independent travel without a guide is not permitted in Turkmenistan. However, in the capital Ashgabat, you can move around freely in your free time.

Registration: In Turkmenistan we will need to register you within 3 days after your arrival to the country. For some time we will therefore need your original passport, so we can do the registration on your behalf and you do not need to worry about it.

Special Note: At the moment everybody still (!) needs to do a Covid test on arrival at the border. The test costs around 33 USD and this needs to be paid together with the visa fee (it’s included in the above mentioned total fees of around USD 110). Do not worry about the result of the test – they will not tell you the result and it is always negative. Officially, there has never been a positive case of Covid recorded in Turkmenistan.

General Advice for Multi-Country Travel in the Stans

• Registration: In Uzbekistan, the registration is done automatically by the hotels. In Turkmenistan, our local ground agent handles the registration for you. In the other countries, no registration is required.
• Overland Crossings: You may enter and exit the same county as many times as you like – except for Turkmenistan, where you need a separate visa each time. You will be crossing several land borders on your trip. These have to be crossed always on foot, and there is typically a distance of around half a mile to walk on a dusty road in the heat. Make sure that you are able to carry your own luggage, and use the toilets before entering the border. Border crossings can be busy with many locals. You will be crossing the borders together with the local guide, who will help to navigate you through the different checkpoints as smoothly as possible. Please be patient – it may take one to two hours to cross the border.
• Check for Updates: Visa policies can change suddenly. Always verify current requirements on official government websites or with the nearest embassy before you travel.

More on this later.

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Fitness level –– Moderate walks and uneven surfaces. Most of the touring in the cities is done on foot. Frequent stops are included. There are a couple of short hikes in the mountains, but they optional. You should be able to carry your own luggage. With an average fitness level there is no need to prepare for this trip.

Important Air Dates:  For the main group (without pre & post add-on extensions) Depart USA by the Aug 14th or earlier. Plan to arrive Tashkent, Uzbekistan  airport code TAS by Aug 16. The tour starts by noon. Early check-in on August 16 is included.  For the best fares and schedules, consider Turkish, Qatar and Emirates from USA.

Pre tour starts Day 1 in Ashgabat, Turkmenistan on Aug 12. (Land tour that afternoon). Early check-in on August 12 is already included. If you arrive a day early, we can book an extra night for you upon request.

Post tour ends in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan on Aug 29 (Fly out day)

 Main tour starts Aug 16 in Tashkent, Uzbekistan

Ends Aug 25 in Almaty, Kazakhstan (fly out day).

General Air Notes –  We rarely offer group air now as we have savvy travelers who like doing their own. In the past people expressed interest and we would make a group booking, but then they found better rates and canceled air. Minimum 16 needed.  Given the small size of group and lack of interest participants must now book their own air unless we present otherwise.

Consider flying in early to ensure you’ll be there once trip begins.   Always download and use your airlines app! Use app to track your booking, delays, bags, to show boarding pass and to contact them. If you have a flight problem go to the airline’s website “contact us” page or reach them by text, social media,  or call their international number.  Be sure to have a copy of your ticket on your phone.  Many say they want to fly business class now, but don’t realize fares range from 4K to 9K. We do have two good contacts that can get these seats at nearly half cost. [email protected] or [email protected]  855-777-6336 …. [email protected] 305-390-4132

 Doing Own Air–  We like Google Flights.  3rd-party booking engines like Expedia, make it easy to book, but it is nearly impossible to handle air problems.  Buy direct from airline or pay a travel agent to ticket you.  If you need help air with the economy seat, our guy Delhi can help; email [email protected] with your exact air dates, destination, passport name, and details with birthdate.

Usually, the best connections from the US to Central Asia are on Turkish Airlines via Istanbul, Qatar or Emirates. You may book a “multi-city” flight on the Turkish Airlines website – this is cheaper than booking two separate one-way tickets.  Call with questions.  

 Airport Transfers-

We provide airport transfers in the beginning and at the end of the trip, regardless of what time and date you arrive and depart.

If you arrive at Tashkent International Airport for the main tour, you will be met by the driver in the arrival hall holding up a sign “AFS”, and he will bring you to the hotel.

If you arrive on the pre-tour at Ashgabat International Airport, you will be welcomed by an English speaking local guide inside Ashgabat Airport. Follow the “VISA” sign. Inside the customs area, next to the visa desk, your guide will be meeting you with a “AFS” sign. He will assist you with getting your visa issued and doing the covid test. Please note, you are responsible for your flight arrangements to and from Central Asia. Please inform us about your flight changes. At the end of the trip, a driver wil bring you to the airport for your departure flight. The exact times and phone numbers and names of your drivers will be communicated closer to date.

 We may have one common group airport pick up based on majority of arrival times of group.  Min 10 people needed.  If your times fall outside the group, simply take a taxi or ride share to the hotel. Others to consider is www.jayride.com or welcome pick ups. We can arrange a private meet and greet for you, but it is expensive.

With travelers arriving and departing on different days and times, it is insurmountable to manage. Group air airport transfers are based on set time. Without group air, there can no longer be any pick-ups or drop-offs.  Unfortunately, now like other tour companies, transfers are your responsibility. (We’ve spent weeks each trip making spreadsheets of each person’s air to send to the supplier and then flights change. We then hire a guide, driver and pay airport parking fees. Last year in groups only half showed up as guides waited hours looking for others. Sometimes no AFSers showed up without informing us.) Transfers are not expensive. First, google your arrival airport website to see transfer tab. Suggestions to appear like airport bus, taxi details, Uber and more. Then connect on group Facebook page to set up sharing transfer cost if you like.  If you go early and check-in AFS hotel before group arrives, it’s your responsibility to change rooms with your roommate if necessary day one when trip begins.) 

 Meet Up with Group- On day one of tour…a time will be set to meet the group at the hotel for a briefing. More on this later. 

 Baggage– Think light to ease your burden, not like you’re fleeing your homeland.  You change hotel properties many times. 1 carry-on bag & 1 medium suitcase not to exceed 45lb checked bag – weigh on a bathroom scale.  Apple AirTags work great to track checked bags when the airline cannot, also good for carry-on.   Leave space for great souvenirs. Be sure to attach ID inside and out of carry-on and checked bag. Do not pack portable charging battery in your check bag! Keep this in your carry-on.

 Packing-  Google weather a week prior departure – should be in the in upper 90’s in low lands and upper 70’s in mountain areas.

This trip is so easy and casual throughout. Simply pack spring/summer clothing with a light jacket for nights and long flights.  Umbrella, hat, swimsuit, rain jacket, water bottle, comfy sneakers, all hotels have hair dryers.  

When traveling to the five Central Asian countries (Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan) in August, it’s important to consider both the warm climates and cultural norms. Here’s a packing list for both men and women:   Choose breathable fabrics (cotton, linen) to stay cool. Bring layers (light jackets, cardigans) for chilly mornings/evenings, especially in the mountains. Dress modestly—cover shoulders and knees in rural or conservative areas.

Women

• Tops: Loose blouses, tunics, t-shirts, sleeveless tops (bring a scarf for coverage if needed)
• Bottoms: Long skirts, loose trousers, knee-length capris or shorts
• Dresses: Maxi dresses for comfort and modesty
• Outerwear: Light jacket or cardigan
• Shoes: Comfortable walking shoes, sandals, or flats
• Accessories: Sunhat, sunglasses, lightweight scarf (for sun or religious sites)

Men

• Tops: Lightweight shirts or t-shirts, long sleeves for sun
• Bottoms: Breathable trousers, chinos, knee-length shorts
• Outerwear: Light jacket or sweater
• Shoes: Comfortable walking shoes, sandals, or flip-flops
• Accessories: Sunhat, sunglasses, light scarf

Essentials

• Swimwear and cover-up for lakes/pools
• Enough undergarments
• Hiking gear (durable pants, moisture-wicking shirts, good walking shoes)
• Light raincoat or umbrella

Notes:  Dress extra modestly in conservative areas and religious sites. Prioritize mix-and-match clothing to save space and maximize options.  Smart packing means comfort, respect, and an easy trip through the Stans.

Cool travel hacks from our AFSers! Pack overnight outfit in your carry-on, liquid IV packets to hydrate, use packing cubes, downy wrinkle spray, extra nylon bag to check laundry home, tons of US dollars for extra tips, fully charged travel banks, less is more, get global entry.

 Electric– Don’t forget a portable backup charger, cords, gadgets, etc. Cell phones and tablets do not need a converter; you only need an adapter plug.  AFSers often leave charger cords in room, so be sure to double-check your room before check out. All properties have hairdryers.  See https://www.power-plugs-sockets.com

 Money Matters – Always bring some cash!  You will need some cash for personal tipping, meals, and shopping. $500 cash should suffice .    Change currency on arrival at airport, bank, or hotels or withdraw local currency from an ATM.  Note -independent ATMs are risky due to skimmer scams. Safest ATMs are at airport and banks. Always shield your pin number when entering.  Bring newer bills 2016 on as some countries won’t take old or slightly damaged bills.

Master Card and Visa widely accepted.  Amex rarely accepted.   Credit cards are far safer than using your debit card. I use my credit card for most purchases.  Many cards now offer no foreign transaction fees. (Some countries in Africa and Asia require new bills dated after 2016. Older bills not accepted when changing money.). Always choose to pay in local currency for the most favorable rate! Even draw local from Atm.

Please note: Turkmenistan has an official exchange rate of 1 USD = 3.5 Turkmen Manat. However, the “real” exchange rate is much higher. At the reception of your hotel in Ashgabat you can exchange money with the real exchange rate of approximately 1 USD = 19 Turkmen Manat (subject to change). So, in Turkmenistan, we recommend NOT to exchange money at the bank and never to use a credit card, because you would overpay six times on each purchase. Also, you cannot exchange Turkmen Manat back to USD, so we recommend exchanging only a small amount at once. You won’t need much money. Your guide is always around for help and guidance.

Credit card acceptance in the five Central Asian countries (Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan) varies significantly:

General Trend:

• Urban Areas: Credit cards are generally accepted in major cities and tourist hubs, especially at hotels, larger restaurants, and shops. Visa and MasterCard are the most commonly accepted cards.
• Rural Areas: Acceptance ismore limited. Some small businesses, local markets, and remote areas may only accept cash.
• Turkmenistan is cash only.

Country-Specific Notes:

1. Kazakhstan:
   • Widely accepted in cities like Almaty, where we are staying.
   • ATMs are common, you may need some cash only for the market
2. Kyrgyzstan:
   • Major cities such as Bishkek accept cards, but rural areas often do not.
   • Cash is essential for local markets and small shops; ATMs are available but verify if they accept international cards.
3. Tajikistan:
   • Credit card acceptance is quite limited, mainly in Dushanbe and larger hotels or restaurants.
   • Cash (in Tajik somoni) is preferred at most places, and ATMs may occasionally have difficulties accepting foreign cards or they may have very low withdrawal limits (USD 20 per day) or the ATM might be out of money.
4. Turkmenistan:
   • Credit cards are rarely accepted, and they automatically apply the official exchange rate that is five to six times worse than the unofficial one.
   • Rely on cash only. Bring enough cash in US Dollars (nice banknotes)
5. Uzbekistan:
   • More acceptance in tourist areas and hotels in cities such as Tashkent and Samarkand.
   • Typically, cash is necessary for smaller transactions and rural areas; local ATMs are available.

Recommendations:

• Bring Cash: It’s advisable to carry sufficient cash in US dollars and the local currency for smaller purchases, especially outside urban centers.
• Notify Your Bank: Before traveling, inform your bank of your travel plans to avoid issues with card usage.
• ATM Awareness: Withdraw sufficient cash when you find ATMs that accept international cards to minimize the need for frequent withdrawals.
• Check Fees: Be aware of any foreign transaction fees from your credit card provider and currency conversion rates.

While credit cards are convenient in cities, a combination of both cash and cards will ensure a smoother experience during your travels in Central Asia.

Gratuities –  $120 added to your invoice, main group only. This is for ease of distribution each day from your trip leader.  We hired the top ground teams in each country. It’s protocol to tip our guides, assistants, drivers, porters, staff, and more for each group abroad.  Our tips are based on industry standards.   Discretionary tips help ensure a good relationship, and the only thing we travelers leave behind is our reputation. The new web platform we travel shows all trip prices. 

(Extended group pay Deanna $50 per extension). It’s wise to bring an envelope of local currency for personal tipping and for craft markets along the way. Please leave a dollar or two when meals are included.  

Communication– Internet available but spotty.  With smartphones, be sure to check with your provider for rates and coverage for international phone plans before departure. Data Roaming rates can be expensive. The most affordable and convenient way to get data on your cell phone is using your carriers plan for international roaming. 

To reach home – Texting, iMessage, WhatsApp, and Facebook messaging when using WIFI. Keep your phone in airplane mode to prevent roaming charges. Be cautious using public Wi-Fi without using VPN. Without VPN never open attachments or view financial or personal accounts on the Internet while abroad.

Phone calls, text messages, and data usage of all kinds, it is crucial to understand that, unless you are connected to Wi-Fi, every use of your phone incurs a data toll. That means that viewing and downloading email, browsing the web, viewing social media, and mapping all incur data charges, as do applications that we sometimes assume to be “free,” such as  WhatsApp. Unless you are connected to Wi-Fi, however, WhatsApp is using cellular data, so you are getting charged at your provider’s international roaming data rate.  Facebook Messenger Phone is an easy free way to make calls.

In Turkmenistan, internet is heavily restricted. Social media and messaging service such as WhatsApp generally do not work. However, if you connect to the hotel Wi-Fi in your hotel room, the internet works normally.

Safety: At AFS, safety of our Travelers is our priority since our inception in 1989. Our local teams constantly monitor any issues with your destination. They can access real time safety updates and inform us if necessary.  For any real emergency, your guide can assist you in contacting anyone.

Avoiding Hackers on Vacation.  Thieves not only want your money but also your data.    Change passwords often. Check device security settings before you leave for your trip. Back up, update, and encrypt your devices and data using a virtual VPN.

• Bottled water is always best abroad, as our gut isn’t accustomed to local tap water.  Stay hydrated.
• Travel health – Avoid street foods. Bring Imodium or anti-diarrhea medicine.  Bring sunscreen.  Load up on antioxidants like vitamin C to zinc.

Health –  all our meals are pure and water is filtered. Bottled water is always available. Medical facilities are limited in Central Asia, with doctors and clinics often requiring payment in cash prior to providing services, even for emergency care. Standards in remote areas will be very basic. The diet and hygiene standards of Central Asia may be different from what you are used to so please take care with washing hands before meals etc and bring some medication/re-hydration salts etc should you experience stomach problems. For this reason, we recommend against drinking unboiled tap water in all Central Asian cities.

Photography – Before taking pictures of locals, know it is polite to ask.  Your AFS Private Facebook Group Page is a great way to share your best shots with each other. AFS loves photos with group participants (not typical churches, monuments, or any shot that looks like you pulled it off of the net, etc.) for our website. The best photos are ones that include a group member with a local, children, animals, or at iconic sites in the same frame! Note, there may be some restrictions with photos in religious sites. Guide will advise.

Chewing-  To give you the best experience we pre-order and pre-arrange food and generally meals are included in the trip price. If you are a vegetarian/vegan or have food allergic reactions to gluten, lactose and others please inform us at the time of booking and upon arrival remind your tour leader. It is not a problem to travel Central Asia as a vegetarian or with any food allergies, but we need to make a couple of arrangements beforehand. Traditional Central Asian cuisine is heavily based on meat, however it is possible to arrange alternative variations.

In most places the choice of food is limited and is mostly local food.

Travelers to the “5 Stans” will find a delightful array of native foods that are sure to tantalize their taste buds. In Uzbekistan, the iconic dish plov—a fragrant rice dish cooked with meat, carrots, and spices—offers a hearty introduction to local cuisine. Kyrgyzstan features beshbarmak, a traditional meat and noodle dish often served during special occasions, showcasing the region’s love for hearty meals. Visitors to Kazakhstan can savor kazy, a delicacy made from horse meat, which is typically served during festivities and celebrations. Additionally, sampling the sweet and flaky pastries like chak-chak and baursak will leave American tourists with a delightful taste of the rich culinary heritage found in these

Central Asian countries.

 When traveling in the Central Asian countries known as the “5 Stans” (Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan), here are some important food and drink precautions to consider:

1. Avoid Raw and Unpeeled Fruits and Vegetables: Stick to cooked vegetables and fruits that can be peeled, as raw items may be washed with unsafe water.
2. Choose Cooked Foods: Opt for hot, freshly prepared meals rather than street food or anything that has been sitting out.
3. Be Wary of Dairy Products: Avoid unpasteurized dairy products, which can pose a risk. Stick to commercially packaged, pasteurized items.
4. Check Ice: When ordering drinks, ensure that ice is made from bottled or boiled water.  (Our hotels are ok.)
5. Pack Snacks: Consider bringing sealed snacks for long travels, especially in remote areas where food safety might be a concern.
6. Local Specialty Cautions: Be cautious with local specialties, especially those involving raw meat or fish.
7. Hygiene Standards: Choose restaurants with good hygiene standards and look for indicators such as cleanliness, customer volume, and recommendations.

• Never drink tap water in Central Asia

• Always wash hands or use hand sanitizer before any meal
• When eating greasy food, it is recommended not to drink anything cold along with it, but hot green tea – it helps with digestion
• Do not eat salads with mayonnaise

 By following these precautions, travelers can reduce their risk of foodborne illnesses while enjoying the local cuisine safely.

 Accommodations – Our itinerary has links to each hotel.  Hotels can change, but it’s rare.

Safety in the Stans –  While pickpocketing are common concern for travelers in the “5 Stans,” there are additional safety issues to be aware of:

1. Scams and Fraud: Tourists may encounter various scams, including unofficial taxi services, currency exchange scams, or tour guides charging exorbitant rates. Research and use reputable services to avoid falling victim.
2. Corruption: Corruption can affect law enforcement and justice systems, leading to situations where tourists may feel vulnerable or encounter bureaucratic hurdles.
3. Rural Areas: Travelers in remote regions should exercise caution, as infrastructure may be lacking, and emergency services could be slow to respond. Understanding local issues and customs is important for safety.
4. Cultural Sensitivity: Certain behaviors, such as public displays of affection or inappropriate dress, may provoke negative reactions. It’s vital to respect local customs and traditions to avoid confrontations.

 Staying aware, respecting local customs, and using common sense can help mitigate these risks for a safer travel experience. 

Roommates –  Single supplements have significantly increased in price– if available at all.  Save money and buy yourself an awesome local gift. We all live alone, but save money when traveling by rooming together. Suzy spends a lot of time on roommate matching.  99% of our clients are wonderful and you’re only in your room to sleep at night.   The best option is to invite a friend.  Note, kindness begets kindness.  Many of our seasoned travelers bring headsets to drown out any excess noise.  We share rooms only to sleep at night.  Please understand if the AFS room list ends up with an unbalanced gender, and forces a single room, we will offer it to all in group.  If all decline, we split the added forced cost single room. You will be offered to find a friend to join you or pay the single supplement cost or take a full refund.  Single supplement cost vary depending on hotels and cruises.

Leisure Time –  For your free time, it’s best to arrive and ask our local expert guides for suggestions.  We notice many newer clients pre-plan many activities on the AFS trip well before they arrive, often with disappointing results.  Our daily itineraries are pretty full, but there will be some free time. Expert travelers revel in the element of surprise in a new destination and allow the wind to blow them where it will. Use Google Maps on your phone to find everything nearby.

 Amending tour pre-or post-trip. We honor your independent spirit, but encourage you to extend more days at the trip’s end when you’re acclimated well to the destination.  If you add another country, we often see many AFSers on Facebook urging others to join them what do you consider the cost of tours, transport, hotels, etc.  Stopovers are great to add, but understand AFS has no responsibility for the quality of your trip.

(Please understand that, as a group tour operator, it’s important to note that our specialty lies in organizing group tours, and as such, our resources are tailored specifically for this purpose. Consequently, we are not equipped with the appropriate tools to assist with individual travel plans. For personalized vacation arrangements, we recommend exploring services like Viator, which is designed for individual travelers.)

Private Facebook Group Page  –  The benefit of the Private FB Group Page is that you have an opportunity to introduce yourself to your fellow travelers before departure and share trip photos during and after the tour.  The FB Group Link can be found in your Wetravel welcome letter after your initial deposit.  (We found that some never read the Trip Tips jumping right to the Private FB Group Page assuming they will get all trip info needed. Often, they only receive rumors or misinformation. All important information is ALWAYS emailed to each participant and posted in Trip Tips under UPDATES. Nobody misses a thing.)

 Emergency Contact – AFS phone or text 770-432-8225 or email.    More contacts will be provided with your Final Docs email 2 to 3 weeks before departure.

 Travel Insurance– While travel insurance is optional, in today’s world we highly encourage you to get standard coverage to cover trip interruption and cancellation.  Best source for all is www.insuremytrip.com.   CFAR or cancel for any reason covers much but is expensive.  Note that no company covers for fear.

Preexisting conditions – If you would like the security of travel insurance and have a pre-existing condition (elderly parent, medical, etc.), you must purchase insurance within 15 days from your initial trip deposit in order to assure full coverage.  The trip cost can be amended or adjusted as needed after your initial purchase (eg. like adding an air ticket cost later). You can buy travel insurance at any time, just know that there may be some possible limitations if purchased outside the 15 day period.  We like TravelSafe, or Allianz

• Click here to Purchase Travel Insurance online

AFS Group Etiquette – Prepare for your departure joyfully!  Please understand that with travel, things are not like at home and changes may occur. Great trips work best for those with an open mind, flexible attitude and adventuresome spirit.  If changes occur, embrace them with serendipity. Who knows?… The unexpected may prove to be a better experience.  Adapt and go with the flow with a laid-back attitude.  Be tolerant of foreign cultures in respecting their centuries of traditions. Embrace the differences. Be curious, not shy. Smile – locals will sense your energy of kindness and kindness always begets kindness.  Our common goal is to experience different cultures, make new friends, get great photos, have large fun, and return home safely with memories worthy of recollection.

Please note that AFS is non-partisan – With our homogeneous groups, we all want to focus on the common denominator – our love of travel.  In today’s divisive world, we suggest members not discuss politics and if you must, please practice my rule of TOK:  Tolerance, Open-mindedness and Kindness.

Please be advised that the operation of some tours may need to be rearranged or modified to suit local conditions, but all activities stated will be included.   Now more than ever before, travelers value the privilege of travel to explore our world. You’ve been waiting so long, it’s time for recess!

The best spirit of an Explorer requires the openness of a child – Suzy

“When traveling, remember that a foreign country isn’t designed to make you comfortable.  It’s designed to make its own people comfortable.” – Clinton Fadiman

 Additional information:

MEDICATIONS

For all your prescription medications you should carry a copy of the prescription with you and be ready to show it, if requested to do so.
Turkmenistan is very strict regarding import of medications. The best rule is to avoid bringing anything narcotic or psychotropic, and any derivative or analogue of opiates, tramadol and codeine.

DRONES

Import and use of drones is strictly prohibited in Uzbekistan and Turkmenistan.

DECLARATION OF MONEY

In Tajikistan you need to declare the money if you bring more than 3,000 USD (or equivalent in other currencies) into the country.

In Uzbekistan you need to declare the money if you bring more than 5,000 USD (or equivalent in other currencies) into the country.

In Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan and Turkmenistan the respective amounts are 10,000 USD.

CIGARETTES

You can only bring two packs of tobacco products, i.e. cigarettes, into Turkmenistan. Smoking is prohibited in most public places in these countries. Please check with your guide.

ANTIQUITIES & HANDICRAFTS

Everything created more than 50 years ago in Uzbekistan is considered an antiquity and requires a special certificate to be allowed to be brought out of the country. Also items of “cultural value”, like fully handmade artwork, exclusive handicrafts, etc. require a special certificate. Mass-produced items do not require a certificate. If you are unsure please check with your guide in Uzbekistan.