The Flaming Mountains, China
Stretching over 100km long and 10km wide, the mountains are so named because, under the relentless heat of the midday sun, they radiate a fierce heat and appear to be on fire.

The Terracotta Warriors of Xi’an, China
Six thousand intricately carved, life size clay statues of terracotta warriors and their horses stand in battle formation, and have been protecting the mausoleum of Emperor Qin Shi Huang, the first emperor in Chinese history, for over 2,200 years.

Bukhara, Uzbekistan
This living medieval city is packed full of ancient architecture and bustles with life and atmosphere.

Dunhuang, China
Once an oasis town and stop-off for weary travellers, Dunhuang’s magnificent Mogao cave temples are a fascinating remnant of days bone by.

Samarkand, Uzbekistan
This grand city features exquisite Islamic architecture on a majestic scale, along side Soviet-style avenues and green spaces.

Darvaza Gas Crater, Turkmenistan
In the middle of the Karakum Desert, the Darvaza gas crater was inadvertently created more than 40 years ago when the ground under a drilling rig gave way.  Scientists are said to have set it on fire to burn off noxious gases, and it still burns today.  A surreal spectacle.

As we are talking about a vast range of countries and climates, there is no one great time to go. Generally speaking we’d say April through to October, but we’re happy to advise on any specific itinerary you choose.