A decade ago, few Australian travellers had experienced the wonders of Central Asia's Five Stans, but today these fascinating destinations are becoming increasingly popular on the tourist trail. Western Australian company Travel Directors pioneered adventurous journeys through Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan and Turkmenistan, and now other tour operators are following suit.
Practical Insights from Recent Traveller
Ben Sinagra, a reader who recently returned from a Five Stans tour, shares valuable practical observations that could help fellow Australian adventurers plan their Central Asian journey. According to Sinagra, each country offered distinct experiences with rich history about the Old Silk Road and diverse cultures that have shaped the region over centuries.
The tour guides proved exceptionally knowledgeable, well-versed in tourist necessities like currency exchange, water stops, and toilet facilities. Speaking of which, Sinagra notes that outside hotels, most restrooms feature squat toilets that often resemble Australian drop toilets in both aroma and appearance, with the added inconvenience of payment required for each use.
Country-Specific Travel Considerations
Turkmenistan presents unique challenges for visitors. Travellers must obtain a Letter of Invitation before arrival to apply for a visa on entry, costing $US130. The country operates on a cash-based system that doesn't accept Visa or Mastercard, relying instead on local Turkmenistan cards. While ATMs dispense local Manat currency, Sinagra discovered a significant discrepancy between official and practical exchange rates - 4 Manat per US dollar officially versus 19 Manat per dollar when using US cash directly in shops.
Connectivity proves challenging in Turkmenistan, with Airalo eSim services failing to work and hotel wi-fi proving unreliable and limited.
Uzbekistan stands out as particularly tourist-friendly, with widespread acceptance of Visa and Mastercard in most establishments. The Airalo eSim functioned well here, and English speakers are common among the friendly local population.
Tajikistan offers limited card facilities, with Visa accepted only in larger shops and restaurants. ATMs provide access to local currency, but the Airalo eSim didn't function, leaving travellers dependent on basic hotel wi-fi.
Kyrgyzstan's tourism infrastructure falls between Tajikistan and Uzbekistan in development. Visa cards are accepted but Mastercard faces limitations. Currency exchanges are plentiful, though travellers should note that some establishments only exchange larger US dollar bills ($50 and $100) and demand pristine condition notes with no rough edges or defects. The Airalo eSim service also failed in Kyrgyzstan.
Kazakhstan emerges as the most modernised, with Visa and Mastercard readily accepted in most locations. Interestingly, many shops refuse US dollars entirely, preferring card payments or local currency. Connectivity improves significantly here, with Airalo eSim functioning properly and generally reasonable wi-fi availability.
Cultural Richness and Historical Significance
The Five Stans region offers Australian travellers an unparalleled journey through centuries of Silk Road history, where ancient cultures flourished and receded, leaving behind remarkable architectural and cultural legacies. From the modern high-rise apartments of Ashgabat to traditional yurts in Kyrgyzstan's Tamchy region, the contrast between old and new creates a fascinating travel experience.
Local markets like the Chorsu Bazaar provide authentic cultural encounters, where visitors can watch bakers removing bread from traditional oven walls and explore vibrant food sections showcasing regional specialties. The Darvaza gas crater in Turkmenistan and the majestic landscapes surrounding Kyrgyzstan's Oguz glacier valley offer breathtaking natural wonders.
As Travel Directors demonstrated through their pioneering efforts, the Five Stans have transformed from virtually unknown destinations to increasingly accessible regions for Australian travellers seeking adventure beyond conventional tourist trails.
