The Five Stans
The Ultimate Silk Road Adventure
Five extraordinary countries.
Twenty-eight unforgettable days.
One journey very few travellers will ever experience.
Follow the ancient Silk Road through soaring mountains,
magnificent UNESCO cities, remote nomadic communities
and landscapes unlike anywhere else on Earth.
3-30 April 2028
28 Day Journey
Five Stans
5 Countries
Max. 14 Ladies
Personally Hosted
$19,995 AUD
Twin Share
Personally Hosted by Ladies Who Travel • Expertly Operated by Crooked Compass
Want to Learn More?
Curious about the Five Stans? Before exploring the itinerary below, watch this exclusive presentation by Lisa Pagotto, Founder of Crooked Compass, as she shares why this remarkable journey is considered one of the world’s last great travel adventures.
Or continue scrolling to discover the full itinerary, accommodation, FAQs and everything included in this unforgettable journey.
WHY TRAVEL THE FIVE STANS?
One of the Last Great Adventures on Earth
There are places everyone talks about…
Then there are places that quietly sit on the edge of the map, waiting for the curious.
The Five Stans aren’t destinations you accidentally stumble across—they’re places you deliberately choose.
For centuries, these remarkable countries formed the heart of the ancient Silk Road, connecting East and West through bustling markets, magnificent cities and some of the world’s most spectacular mountain landscapes.
Today, they remain one of travel’s best-kept secrets.
This is the kind of journey where you’ll wander through breathtaking UNESCO World Heritage cities one day, share tea with a local family the next, and wake to snow-capped mountains stretching as far as the eye can see.
It’s adventurous without being uncomfortable, remote without feeling isolated, and filled with experiences that few travellers ever get to enjoy.

WHAT MAKES THIS JOURNEY SO SPECIAL?
More Than a Holiday.
A True Expedition.
This isn’t simply a holiday—it’s an opportunity to experience one of the world’s last great overland adventures. From ancient Silk Road cities and towering mountain ranges to nomadic traditions that have endured for centuries, every day offers something completely different.

Epic Mountain Landscapes
Journey through some of the world’s most spectacular scenery, where snow-capped peaks, alpine lakes and dramatic valleys stretch as far as the eye can see.

Authentic Cultural Encounters
Meet local families, experience nomadic traditions and gain an insight into a way of life that has remained remarkably unchanged for generations.

Ancient Silk Road Cities
Wander through magnificent UNESCO World Heritage cities where traders, explorers and empires once crossed paths along the legendary Silk Road.

Amazing Everyday Moments
Browse bustling bazaars, taste traditional Central Asian cuisine and discover the simple moments that often become the most unforgettable memories.
The Five Stans
Five Extraordinary Countries.
One Unforgettable Journey.
Although they’re often grouped together as “The Five Stans”, each country has its own unique identity, culture and landscapes. Together, they create one of the most diverse and rewarding journeys on Earth.

Turkmenistan
One of the world’s most intriguing destinations, offering surreal landscapes, fascinating history and experiences found nowhere else on Earth.

Uzbekistan
Step into the heart of the Silk Road as we explore magnificent UNESCO-listed cities filled with stunning Islamic architecture and bustling bazaars.

Kyrgyzstan
Snow-capped mountains, crystal-clear lakes and nomadic traditions combine to create one of the most breathtaking countries in the region.

Kazakhstan
Vast landscapes, dramatic canyons and a fascinating blend of modern cities and ancient traditions make Kazakhstan the perfect introduction to Central Asia.

Tajikistan
Remote villages, towering mountain scenery and warm hospitality await as we journey through the spectacular landscapes of Tajikistan.
This Expedition is Perfect For You If…
You Love Going Off the Tourist Trail
You’re excited by destinations that most travellers never visit.
You Enjoy Spectacular Scenery
From alpine lakes to mountain passes, incredible landscapes inspire you.
You Love Cultural Connections
Meeting local people means more to you than ticking off famous landmarks.
You Enjoy Fun Road Trips
Some of the best moments happen between destinations as we cross dramatic landscapes.
You Want Incredible Photos
Every day offers another “I can’t believe I’m here” moment.
You Love Travelling with Like-Minded Women
Share the adventure with women who are just as curious and adventurous as you are
Not everyone dreams of travelling here.
That’s exactly why you’ll love it.
The Five Stans isn’t about ticking countries off a list. It’s about experiencing one of the world’s last truly great adventures with a group of curious, like-minded women.
Welcome to the journey of a lifetime.

A Journey Like No Other
Follow the Ancient Silk Road
Our carefully curated route has been designed to showcase the very best of Central Asia. From vibrant modern cities to remote mountain villages, every stop has been chosen to immerse you in the history, culture and breathtaking landscapes of the ancient Silk Road.
Expand each section below to explore the journey day by day.
WHAT’S INCLUDED
Everything You Need for an Extraordinary Journey
We’ve taken care of every detail, allowing you to simply immerse yourself in one of the world’s most extraordinary journeys through Central Asia.
27
Nights
5
Countries
Max 14
Ladies
Small
Group
✓ Your Journey Includes
✈ Plan Separately
Why This Journey Is Exceptional Value
Visiting five Central Asian countries independently would require months of planning, multiple transport bookings, language barriers and complex border crossings. We’ve taken care of every detail—from accommodation and transportation to expert local guides and authentic cultural experiences—so you can simply enjoy the adventure.
Travel with Confidence
The Best of Both Worlds
Expertly Guided. Personally Hosted
This exclusive Ladies Who Travel departure is proudly operated in partnership with Crooked Compass, Australia’s leading specialist in small-group cultural journeys.
Crooked Compass takes care of the expert local guides, accommodation, transport and daily logistics, ensuring you experience Central Asia with the knowledge and insight of people who know it best.
As your Ladies Who Travel host, Melissa will be travelling alongside you throughout the journey to help everyone feel welcomed, connected and supported. Together, it’s the best of both worlds—world-class destination expertise from Crooked Compass and the warm, welcoming community Ladies Who Travel is known for.
What Crooked Compass Provides
What Ladies Who Travel Adds
Together, we’ve created a journey that’s both expertly operated and personally hosted.
Why Travel With Ladies Who Travel?
It’s More Than a Tour.
Our Community is Waiting to Welcome You.
Travelling somewhere as unique as Central Asia can feel like a big step—especially if you’re travelling solo. That’s why Ladies Who Travel is about so much more than the destinations we visit.
From the moment you join, you’ll be welcomed into a community of like-minded women who share your sense of adventure.
Many of our travellers arrive knowing no one. They leave with unforgettable memories and friendships that continue long after the journey ends.
Come Solo, Never Alone
Most of our ladies travel solo. You’ll never feel like you’re on your own.
Genuine Friendships
The friendships our ladies make often become one of the most treasured memories of their journey.
Travel Confidently
From logistics to local guides, we’ve taken care of every detail so you can simply relax and enjoy the adventure.
Small Groups
With a maximum of 14 ladies, you’ll enjoy meaningful connections while exploring extraordinary destinations.



What Our Ladies Say
“I didn’t know anyone before I joined. It was the best thing I could have done. Supportive, fun, like-minded women… It was safe, joyous and worth every minute.”
— Kerry, Uluru Ladies Who Travel Trip
BEFORE YOU BOOK (FAQ)
Everything You Need to Know
We know a journey through Central Asia is unlike most holidays. Here are the answers to some of the questions we’re asked most often, so you can book with confidence.
Yes. We carefully choose destinations, accommodation and trusted local partners to ensure you can travel with confidence.
Throughout the journey you’ll be accompanied by experienced local guides who know the region exceptionally well, and every aspect of the itinerary has been thoughtfully planned. Like any overseas destination, it’s important to use common sense and remain aware of your surroundings, but many travellers are pleasantly surprised by the warmth, hospitality and friendliness they experience throughout Central Asia.
Absolutely. In fact, most of our Ladies Who Travel guests join on their own.
Travelling solo doesn’t mean travelling alone. From the moment you join the group, you’ll be travelling alongside a welcoming community of like-minded women who share your love of adventure. Many of our travellers tell us the friendships they make become one of the highlights of their journey.
If you’d like to share a room, we’ll carefully match you with another Ladies Who Travel member who is also travelling solo. Prefer your own space? You’re welcome to upgrade to a private room (subject to availability and the applicable single supplement).
Whether you arrive knowing no one or bring a friend along, you’ll be warmly welcomed from day one.
A moderate level of fitness will help you get the most from this journey.
This itinerary includes walking through ancient cities, exploring historic sites, strolling through local markets and some days with uneven surfaces or stairs. There are also a few longer travel days as we journey between countries.
You don’t need to be an athlete, but you should feel comfortable walking for a few hours at a relaxed pace and managing your own luggage when required. If you’re unsure whether this trip is right for you, we’d be happy to have a chat before you book.
This journey combines comfortable hotels with a handful of unique stays that are all part of the Central Asian experience.
We’ve carefully selected comfortable, well-located accommodation that reflects the character of each destination. Throughout the journey you’ll stay in a mix of quality hotels, boutique properties and one unforgettable night in a traditional yurt camp beside the Darvaza Gas Crater. All accommodation has been chosen to balance comfort, authenticity and location. Hotels are listed in the itinerary and are subject to change to a similar standard where required.
As with any expedition through Central Asia, accommodation standards can vary slightly between countries and remote regions, but every property has been carefully selected to provide a comfortable stay while allowing you to experience the rich culture, history and hospitality that make this part of the world so special.
Visa requirements vary depending on your passport and the countries you’re visiting.
Guidance is provided with all visa requirements. Your Turkmenistan visa support, Letter of Invitation and associated border fees are included as part of the tour. We’ll help make the process as straightforward as possible, so you know exactly what needs to be done before you travel.
We’ve chosen April because it’s one of the best times of year to explore Central Asia.
Spring brings comfortable temperatures across much of the region, making it ideal for sightseeing, walking through ancient Silk Road cities and exploring the spectacular mountain landscapes. You’ll generally enjoy pleasant daytime temperatures, while mornings and evenings can be cooler—particularly in the higher-altitude areas of Kyrgyzstan and Kazakhstan.
As we travel through five countries, the weather will naturally vary from place to place. You’ll experience everything from the desert landscapes of Turkmenistan to alpine lakes and mountain scenery further east, so packing a few lightweight layers is the best approach.
We’ll provide a detailed packing guide before departure, so you’ll know exactly what to bring and won’t need to worry about preparing for such a diverse itinerary.
Comfortable, practical clothing is the key to enjoying this adventure.
We recommend packing lightweight layers, comfortable walking shoes, a warm jacket for cooler mornings and evenings, and sun protection. As we’ll be visiting religious and cultural sites, it’s also a good idea to include clothing that covers your shoulders and knees when required.
Before we depart, we’ll discuss packing together as a group, giving you the opportunity to ask questions, share ideas and hear what’s worked well for other Ladies Who Travel members. By the time you leave home, you’ll feel confident that you’ve packed everything you need—without bringing things you don’t.
We recommend travelling with one medium-sized suitcase and a small daypack.
Keeping your luggage manageable will make it easier when moving between hotels and during border crossings. Your daypack is perfect for carrying water, your camera, passport and any essentials while sightseeing.
We’ll provide any luggage size or weight recommendations before departure if there are specific requirements during the trip.
Yes. Comprehensive travel insurance is a condition of joining this tour.
Travel insurance provides peace of mind should the unexpected happen, including medical emergencies, cancellations, lost luggage or travel delays. We strongly recommend purchasing your policy as soon as you’ve confirmed your booking so you’re covered before you depart.
If you need assistance choosing a policy, we’re happy to point you in the right direction.
Absolutely! We can assist with flights, additional hotel stays and even extending your holiday.
Whether you’d like to arrive early, stay on after the tour, or continue exploring another destination, we’re happy to help tailor your travel plans. As a full-service travel business, we can assist with flights, accommodation, travel insurance and additional arrangements, making your entire journey as seamless as possible.
Everything you need will be available in your personal itinerary app.
Before departure, you’ll receive access to your digital itinerary, where you’ll find your daily schedule, hotel details, flight information (if booked through us), maps, important documents and other helpful travel information. It’s all conveniently stored on your phone, making it easy to access throughout your journey.
If you need assistance choosing a policy, we’re happy to point you in the right direction.
Yes! One of the best parts of travelling with Ladies Who Travel is that the friendships often begin long before the trip does.
Every tour has its own private Facebook group where you can introduce yourself, ask questions, share your excitement and get to know the other ladies travelling with you. By departure day, many of our travellers already feel like they’re meeting friends rather than strangers.
Definitely. We don’t just send you off with an itinerary—we help you prepare for the adventure.
In the lead-up to departure, we’ll hold online group catch-ups where we’ll talk through the itinerary, discuss packing, answer questions and share helpful travel tips. It’s also another wonderful opportunity to get to know your fellow travellers before the journey begins.
We’ll have a dedicated WhatsApp group for the duration of the trip.
It’s a simple way to share updates, meeting times, photos and useful information throughout the journey. It also makes it easy for everyone to stay connected, whether you’ve gone for an early morning walk, are relaxing at the hotel or simply want to share a great photo from the day.
Yes! Melissa will be travelling alongside you throughout the journey.
One of the things our ladies value most is knowing there’s a familiar face with them every step of the way. Melissa will be there to help answer questions, assist if anything unexpected comes up, and most importantly, enjoy this incredible adventure with you.
Our experienced local guides take care of the destination expertise, while Melissa is there to ensure our Ladies Who Travel group feels supported, connected and has an amazing experience from beginning to end.
READY TO JOIN US?
Reserve Your Place
In just a few clicks, you could be joining 13 other wonderful women on an unforgettable journey through the heart of Central Asia. We can’t wait to share this adventure with you.
📅 Departure:
3–30 April 2028
28 Days • 5 Countries
💰 Price:
$19,995 AUD Twin Share
$3,495 AUD Upgrade to single room
$1500 deposit per person to secure your place
💜 Hosted Experience
Maximum 14 Ladies
Hosted by Melissa Delaware
Flights and extensions available
When you book, you’ll receive:
✓ Confirmation of your place
✓ Access to the private 5 Stans Tour Facebook group
✓ Your 5 Stans digital itinerary app
✓ Meet your fellow travellers before departure
✓ Ongoing support from Melissa
Ready to begin your next great adventure?
We’d love to welcome you to the Ladies Who Travel family.
Still have a question? We’d love to hear from you.
YOUR HOST
Travel With Someone Who Loves Bringing Women Together
This Ladies Who Travel journey is personally hosted by me, because I believe the people you travel with are just as important as the places you visit.
My goal is simple—to help you feel welcomed, supported and part of something truly special from the moment you book until long after we’ve returned home.

A PERSONAL NOTE
I’m Looking Forward to Travelling With You
When I created Ladies Who Travel, my dream wasn’t simply to organise incredible holidays. It was to create a place where women could explore the world with confidence, make genuine friendships and feel like they truly belonged.
Every journey we take together reminds me why I started this community. Watching complete strangers become lifelong friends, seeing ladies achieve travel dreams they never thought possible, and sharing unforgettable moments together is the most rewarding part of what I do.
Whether this is your very first Ladies Who Travel adventure or one of many, I’d love to welcome you along. I have a feeling this is going to be one of those journeys we’ll all be talking about for years to come.
Melissa Delaware
Founder, Ladies Who Travel
Adventure is Better When It’s Shared
Somewhere along this journey, you’ll stand in awe of an ancient city, watch the sun rise over landscapes unlike anywhere else on Earth, laugh until your sides hurt with women who were once complete strangers, and realise you’ve created memories that will stay with you forever.
I hope you’ll join us.
Melissa x
















