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A must-visit list of incredible Silk Road sights in Uzbekistan

Apr 8, 2019 • 5 min read

Uzbekistan is home to some of the most awe-inspiring ancient Silk Road sights © Gusamutdinov / Shutterstock

Desert citadels, crumbling mud fortresses, mosaic-adorned medressas and busy market bazaars. For many centuries, the Silk Road was the world’s superhighway, and Uzbekistan was at its very heart.

After maritime and later air trade overtook the land, the Silk Road gradually fell out of use. The countries and cultures of Central Asia languished for decades under Soviet rule, all but lost to travellers and the undulations of international commerce.

But in recent years, Central Asia has begun to reopen its doors to a new breed of travellers wanting to rediscover the lost beauty of the Silk Road. Many of the top sights of the Silk Road are to be found in Uzbekistan , which served as a central crossroads for traders and travellers plying the routes between the Far East and Europe, Persia and North Africa.

For anyone curious about the beginnings of international commerce, and with it the spread of religious ideas, art, language and culture, a visit to this newly reopening country is a must. Here are Uzbekistan’s top Silk Road sights.

The Registan

The most awe-inspiring sight in Central Asia is Samarkand’s Registan : a central square flanked by the most ornately tiled, mosaic-clad medressas (historic Islamic schools) that glitter at dawn and dusk in shades of the Silk Road: azure, lapis lazuli, indigo, gold. The larger-than-life architectural gems were built during the Timurid dynasty, from the 1400s-1600s, though before that this served as a medieval bazaar that was, quite literally, a crossroads at the centre of the world.

It’s impossible to get a full understanding of the Silk Road’s incredible size and history without understanding its most far-reaching and successful empire: that of Timur (1336-1405), sometimes known as Tamerlane. The emperor’s final resting place, the Gur-e-Amir , is one of the most beautiful sights on the Silk Road: a gilded mausoleum with golden-hued domes and sparkling mosaics.

Shah-i-Zinda

Not only is this avenue of mausoleums one of the most moving and beautiful Islamic sights in the world, it is also one of the best places to see firsthand the movement of artistic and architectural influences along the Silk Road. The Shah-i-Zinda's tilework is a spectacular combination of Persian, Central Asian and East Asian influences.

Bibi-Khanym Mosque

This enormous tiled mosque complex next to the Registan is one of the most ornate and massive mosque complexes in Central Asia. The Bibi-Khanym Mosque remains one of the largest in the world and, at the time of its construction (financed by Timur’s exploits in India) in the 14th century it was one of the most avant-garde buildings in the world, with a giant dome that still strikes awe as you approach.

Kalon Mosque & Minaret

Legend has it that, when Chinggis Khan was rampaging across Central Asia in his exploits toward Europe, the towering minaret that keeps watch over the Kalon Mosque  complex in Bukhara was the only structure he didn’t destroy. This moving mosque and medressa complex is one of the world’s most spectacular examples of Islamic art and architecture, with fine tiling and mosaic work and two facades facing one another accompanied by the spectacular mud-constructed minaret.

One of Uzbekistan’s oldest structures is this 5th-century, walled fortress-town right in the centre of Bukhara. It was once the residence of the emirs of Bukhara when it was an emirate state (from 1785–1920) and walking through the Ark today offers glimpses into the ancient lives of people who made their homes along the Silk Road during its earliest times of trade.

Though small, the iconic Char Minar is one of the best examples of Silk Road architecture in Uzbekistan. Most agree that the structure – a former gatehouse to a now-destroyed medressa – bears more influence from Indian and south Asian architecture than Central or East Asian, a tribute to the movement of artistic influence along the Silk Road.

Silk Road Bazaars

All of Uzbekistan’s cities have incredible bazaars, but none transport you to the old Silk Road quite like those in Bukhara. A network of interlinked domed market spaces still dominates Bukhara’s old town, the most evocative of them being the Taki-Sarrafon (Moneychangers Bazaar), the Taki-Telpak Furushon (Capmakers Bazaar) and the Taki-Zargaron (Jewellers Bazaar).

Legend says that Khiva was founded by the son of Noah, and whether or not that’s true, it was certainly a trading fort as early as the 8th century and really flourished as a Silk Road city after 1592 when the Uzbek Shaybanids made it their capital. The entire town is now one big monument to Silk Road trade and a great place to visit for an understanding of just how important these remote outposts were to traders crossing vast deserts and inhospitable territory during the Silk Road’s heyday. The perfectly preserved, walled old town of Ichon-Qala is one of Uzbekistan’s Silk Road highlights.

Kalta Minor Minaret

Nodding to a later time in Khiva’s Silk Road history is the chubby, blue-tiled Kalta Minor Minaret . Constructed in 1851 by Mohammed Amin Khan and never finished due to his untimely death, according to legend this tower was designed to be high enough to see all the way to Bukhara.

Other Silk Road sights in Uzbekistan

Khan’s palace – kokand.

On the other side of Uzbekistan, nestled into the eastern Fergana Valley, Kokand was the first stopping point east on the road from Tashkent and home to its own khanate during the 18th-19th centuries. The numerous courtyards and 114 ornately decorated rooms of the Khan’s Palace were the home of the empire’s rulers.

Termiz Archaeological Museum – Termiz

The far southern city of Termiz is the last stopping point in Uzbekistan on the way to Afghanistan, and the entire surrounding area was once a cosmopolitan centre of Buddhist, Bactrian and Islamic cultures, all brought here via the Silk Road. The city’s archaeological museum is chock-full of Silk Road treasures: you’ll see arts running the gamut of the Silk Road, from Greek-influenced statues to Buddhist icons and even Bactrian ivory chess pieces.

Ellik Kala – Khorezm

Though its name means ‘Fifty Fortresses’, this archaeological site comprises more than a dozen ancient walled towns that once made up a series of trading centres, forts and palaces along the Silk Road. Some of the remains are upwards of 2000 years old, left to languish in the arid desert of far western Uzbekistan.

Megan travelled to Uzbekistan with support from Explore and  Uzbekistan Airways . Lonely Planet contributors do not accept freebies in exchange for positive coverage.

https://shop.lonelyplanet.com/products/central-asia-travel-guide-7

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The Silk Road of Uzbekistan

• In-depth Cultural
• Fully Guided

Places You’ll See

• Mingle with the locals in the lively Chorsu market
• Visit the most romantic city on the Silk Road
• Admire Islamic architecture and browse bustling bazaars
• Sample nomadic life with nights in traditional felt tents
• Discover the cultural gem of Samarkand
• Introduction
• Day 1 Join trip Tashkent. Afternoon exploring the Uzbek capital
• Day 2 Fly to Urgench and take a walking tour of the ancient city of Khiva
• Day 3 In Khiva, Free day to explore the Old Citadel or optional tour to desert castles
• Day 4 Scenic drive through the vast plains of Central Asian Plateau to Bokhara
• Day 5 In Bokhara, discover blue-tiled domes and minarets; learn about the city's history
• Day 6 Free day to explore Bokhara's sights further
• Day 7 Drive to desert yurt camp via Nurata; optional camel ride
• Day 8 Drive to Samarkand; afternoon exploration of the city's monuments including Registan Square
• Day 9 In Samarkand, discover magnificent mosques and mausoleums; free afternoon to explore further
• Day 10 In Samarkand, free morning; afternoon high-speed train to Tashkent
• Day 11 Tour ends in Tashkent

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What's Included

• Accommodation
• Additional Services
• Optional Extras

Where You'll Stay

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Customer Reviews

• Overall Rating Excellent 4.5
• Itinerary Excellent 4.6
• Guide Excellent 4.7
• Transport Excellent 4.7
• Accommodation Excellent 4.2
• Food Good 4.0
• Tour Operator Explore! 4.5
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• A Rachel · 11th April 2023 Khiva at night. Bukhara teahouse and Registan Sq. Great to spend night at yurt camp too. Think the Qala castle trip should be part of main itinerary rather than optional. Trip date: April 2023 Review collected by Explore!
• A Andrew · 12th April 2023 Khiva an Bukhara wonderful Trip date: April 2023 Review collected by Explore!
• A Louise · 13th April 2023 Each new destination brought a new highlight - the itinerary was perfect, just the right amount of time in each place. The Registan in Samarkand is hard to beat. Trip date: April 2023 Review collected by Explore!
• A Kathryn · 13th April 2023 Difficult to pick out one highlight, as everything we saw and did was equally amazing. If I had to pick one, seeing Registan Square was probably the best thing. Trip date: April 2023 Review collected by Explore!
• A Susan · 17th April 2023 Highlights were seeing the wonderful buildings and tilework. Trip date: April 2023 Review collected by Explore!
• A Colin · 31st May 2023 Fascinating and very different country Fantastic architecture very cheap great tour leader Trip date: May 2023 Review collected by Explore!
• A Pamela · 7th June 2023 Absolutely loved the madrasa in Khiva, especially after the impersonal Hotel Uzbekistan Trip date: May 2023 Review collected by Explore!
• A Sookfun · 10th June 2023 Khiva Old Citadel. Bukhara Samanid mausoleum. Samarkand Registan and Gur Emir. Trip date: May 2023 Review collected by Explore!
• A Paul · 17th August 2023 The architecture, rooftop meal sand the company Trip date: August 2023 Review collected by Explore!
• A Andrew · 29th August 2023 The big highlight was Khiva, especially the wonderful family hotel we stayed in. Uzbekistan is a wonderful country with lovely people. The historic architecture of this central Asian country is amazing, and everything is so well cared for. The tour... Show more Trip date: August 2023 Review collected by Explore!

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• For any tour departing before 21st August 2024 a full payment is necessary. For tours departing after 21st August 2024, a minimum payment of 10% is required to confirm your booking with Explore!. The final payment will be automatically charged to your credit card on the designated due date. The final payment of the remaining balance is required at least 75 days prior to the departure date of your tour. TourRadar never charges you a booking fee and will charge you in the stated currency.
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Silk Road of Uzbekistan Tour

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Discover the Great Silk Road history of the cities of Uzbekistan

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About this tour:

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Why travellers choose this tour

At 10Adventures, we take care of the details so that our guests can focus on making memories. Enjoy these key features on this tour.

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Accommodations

Accommodations for 6 nights are included.

Don't worry about meals. 6 breakfasts are included.

Check out the 'What's Included' tab for more info on personal transfers during your tour.

Local Support

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Route Resources

Route notes, maps, and/or a trail app make navigation on this tour a breeze.

Park Entrance Fees

Included where possible! Check the 'What's Included' tab for more info on park entrance fees during your tour.

Luggage transfers

Take a load off, with optional or included luggage transfers. Check inclusions for further details.

Accommodation for Silk Road of Uzbekistan Tour

This tour is based in hotels. Hotels on this trip are mainly 3-star and offer modern conveniences that can make this trip more pleasant. Rooms may have fireplaces or access to amenities such as hot tubs, steam rooms, or private decks to lounge on.

In some cases, the accommodation listed below may need to be substituted for other comparable accommodations.

Single Rooms and Solo Travelers Rooms are double occupancy. You can pay a supplement of $225 USD to have a private room in a hotel where possible. Solo travellers may be required to pay a supplement.

Hotel rooms along Silk Road of Uzbekistan

Accommodations are in double hotel rooms as you travel between towns and cities.

Hotels on Standard Tour

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Silk Road of Uzbekistan Tour Details

Overview for silk road of uzbekistan tour.

The Silk Road passed through Uzbekistan many years ago, but its history and cultural influence still stand in a country lesser known to international tourism. The Silk Road of Uzbekistan tour is a fascinating deep-dive into the rich culture of this place.

Land in the bustling center of Tashkent, a city influenced by a long list of countries and cultures. Walk down streets over 2,200 years old that Silk Road traders walked themselves, visiting with the shopowners and locals who will no doubt be interested to meet you. Stellar architecture, unique cuisine, and a tapestry of cultures have merged here to create a place perfect for the off-the-beaten-path traveller. Come discover it for yourself!

Itinerary for Silk Road of Uzbekistan Tour

Arrival and tashkent historical city tour.

Arrive in Tashkent, the capital of Uzbekistan. You’ll have lunch in the city and then an afternoon city tour with local guide. See the old part of the city, the architectural complex of Khazret-Imam, Barak-Khan Madrasah (16th c.), the Kaffal-Shashi mausoleum (15th c.), Kukeldash Madrasah (16th c.), the Juma mosque (9th c.), and the Chorsu oriental bazaar.

Flight to Urgench – Khiva and City Tour

Fly to Urgench, the administrative centre of the Khorezm region. You’ll then transfer to Khiva, the "museum under the open sky" of Central Asia that has been completely preserved up to the present day. Your hotel will be in or near Ichan-Qala, the historical center of Khiva, which has been included on the UNESCO World Heritage list.

Take a city tour around the architectural complex of Ichan-Qala, Kunya-Ark khan's castle, the inner citadel of Ichan-Qala (16-17th c.), the Djuma Mosque with 220 wooden columns, and more. You’ll eat lunch at a local restaurant and then tour Khiva, seeing the Tash-Hauli, Ak Mosque (White Mosque) the necropolis of Pahlavan Mahmud, and the tallest observation point in town.

Transfer from Khiva to Bukhara and Picnic at Oxus River

Overnight Location: Hotel in Bukhara

Historical Tour in Bukhara

Today is a full sightseeing tour of Bukhara. You’ll eat lunch at local restaurant at the ARK Fortress, which, in the Middle Ages, was a whole town. Visit the Madrassah Chor Minor (19 c.), a tiny madrasah with four different minarets, and then a national museum named after merchant F. Khodjaev that offers tea-drinking and a demonstration of national clothing.

In the evening, you can stroll the shops, drink some tea, and continue seeing the sights of Bukhara.

Moving to Samarkand and Ceramist Workshop

After breakfast, you will drive to Samarkand. On the road, stop in Guijduvan to visit the famous ceramics workshop of Abdullo Narzullaev. After lunch in a local restaurant in Samarkand, you’ll have a half-day tour of the city, visiting the mausoleum of Tamerlane - Guri Emir

Sightseeing in Samarkand and Transfer to Tashkent

Meet your guide and driver for today’s city tour. Visit spectacular Registan Square, the remains of Bibi-Khanum Mosque, the Siob Bazaar, and the Shakhi Zinda Necropolis. Eat lunch at a local house in Samarkand. Continue sightseeing with Tamerlan’s tomb, the Ulugbek Observatory, and a drive to Konigil village to explore traditional way of making Samarkand paper from mulberry. You’ll enjoy free time with your car and driver at your disposal after the sightseeing tour.

In the evening, you’ll transfer to the railway station to take the high-speed train to Tashkent.

Thoroughly acquainted with Uzbekistan, it’s time to head home. You’ll be taken to the airport to depart.

Tour Highlights

Highlights for silk road of uzbekistan tour.

Let your mind be blown by Tashkent, a bustling capital city influenced by many countries and cultures.

Stroll streets over 2,200 years old as you visit sites that travellers on the Silk Road once visited themselves.

Discover the architecture, culture, and food that stems from Uzbekistan’s one of a kind past.

Meet the locals, making connections in a country largely unexplored by international tourism.

What's Included

What's included for silk road of uzbekistan tour.

6 breakfasts are included.

Transportation during the Tour

Airport transfer and transportation including local flights and train tickets in economy class are included. Flights to and from Uzbekistan are not included.

Also included

• Guide services

Not included

• Entrance tickets to the museums, mausoleums, and other sights
• Additional services in the hotels
• Video and camera fees at museums, monuments
• Special cultural programs including concerts, performances, etc

Optional extras

• Extra nights before or after the tour

Dates & Prices

Dates and prices for silk road of uzbekistan tour.

This guided tour of Uzbekistan is always run as a private tour for your group only and the price depends on the number of people in your group.

Prices below are per person:

• Guided Groups of 4: $975 USD per person

Please note that the pricing might change depending on the size of your group

Accommodation

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Tour Booking Process

Booking process for silk road of uzbekistan tour.

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Frequently asked questions for Silk Road of Uzbekistan Tour

How hard is the Silk Road of Uzbekistan Tour?

We rate this tour as a 1/5. There will be light walking between points of interest each day, but this is a relaxed sightseeing tour.

When is the best time to travel to Uzbekistan for this tour?

The best time to travel to Uzbekistan for this tour is the spring (April-June) and the fall (September-October). Summer temperatures in the cities of Uzbekistan can be very hot.

Do I need a visa to travel to Uzbekistan?

Check with your local country about visa requirements. You could also try this website , though you should verify with your government.

Are meals included on the Silk Road of Uzbekistan Tour?

Do I need insurance?

Yes, it is mandatory to have health and medical insurance to join this trip, and your insurance should cover the activities mentioned in this itinerary. Get your Travel Insurance .

How do I get to Tashkent to start this tour?

Fly into the Islam Karimov Tashkent International Airport (TAS). The city is served by several international airlines, but the national airline is JSC Uzbekistan Airways.

Is the Silk Road of Uzbekistan Tour in English?

Yes, the tour guide is English-speaking.

Where does the Silk Road of Uzbekistan Tour end?

The tour ends in Tashkent, where you will be taken to the airport.

Do I need special vaccines to travel to Uzbekistan?

Check with your family doctor.

Are there any travel restrictions for Uzbekistan?

Please check with your local government about travel restrictions before you book your tour. This map from the US Department of State provides an overview of the current status in countries around the globe. The UK‘s Foreign Office and Government of Canada also provide advice on foreign travel. Note that the travel advice may change depending on your nationality.

Tour Difficulty

Difficulty for silk road of uzbekistan tour.

Read about our scale for Tour Difficulty Ratings.

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Uzbekistan: Land of Silk Road Treasures

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Uzbekistan has been at the crossroads of cultures and customs for over two millennia. Located halfway along the Silk Road, its cities and monuments pay glorious testament to the wealth and commerce that passed through the region. Uzbekistan has a rich history from the legend of Tamerlane to the Emirate of Bukhara, and some of the finest mosques and mausoleums found anywhere in Central Asia. This exhilarating adventure begins in Tashkent, where we’ll have time to explore some of the ...

Uzbekistan has been at the crossroads of cultures and customs for over two millennia. Located halfway along the Silk Road, its cities and monuments pay glorious testament to the wealth and commerce that passed through the region. Uzbekistan has a rich history from the legend of Tamerlane to the Emirate of Bukhara, and some of the finest mosques and mausoleums found anywhere in Central Asia. This exhilarating adventure begins in Tashkent, where we’ll have time to explore some of the highlights of the Uzbek capital before moving on to Khiva. There, we take time to discover the madrasahs and monuments of its historic heart, before following the ancient Silk Road on to Bukhara, considered to be the most complete medieval city in Central Asia. After taking in Bukhara’s UNESCO treasures, we turn our attention towards the mountains, where we enjoy the hospitality of village life around the Nuratau Reserve. The final leg of our adventure then takes us on to historic Samarkand, a fitting end to a journey steeped in the legends and legacy of the Silk Road.

At a glance

Buses, domestic flights and trains.

EXPERT TEAM

Accommodation, entrance fees, fitness rating.

As an overall ethos, wherever possible we aim to use characterful accommodation that enhances the overall travel experience, not just offers a bed for the night. This can obviously vary dramatically from country to country and from trip to trip. Whilst we endeavour to secure twin share accommodation at the guesthouse, there may be up to four people per room on occasion. Bathrooms are communal and located outside of the main building. Please note that the accommodation mentioned in the itinerary is intended as a guide only and is always subject to availability.

Wild Miles Club

When you book a trip with Wild Frontiers you are awarded points, which are based on the return distance from London to the arrival city of your trip. Points are awarded for all our holidays, including both our escorted group tours and tailor-made trips. When you accrue points, you will qualify for the following discounts on all future bookings:

Positive Impact of this Trip

Map & itinerary.

Individual departures may vary so please refer to the information in the tour specific links in the Dates and Prices section below

Day 1 Tour starts in Tashkent

Rooms will be available in Tashkent from this afternoon. Those arriving on the group flights will arrive in the early hours of tomorrow morning.

Day 2 Tashkent: City Tour Including Bazaar & Opera House

Tashkent is Uzbekistan’s vibrant capital which sat at the heart of the old Central Asian trading routes, gaining prominence under the Mongols and the Shabanids, before finally being absorbed by the expansionist policies of the Russian empire during the 19th century. Flattened by a devastating earthquake in the mid-1960s, the city was reinvented by the Kremlin to represent the very epitome of the socialist ideal. After our morning briefing, we will head out and see some of the capital's highlights - including the Khast Imam Complex, the stunning edifice of the Alisher Navoi Opera and Ballet Theatre and the Chorsu Bazaar, a vast open-air market that sits in the heart of the old part of the city.

Day 3 Tashkent – Nukus/ Urgench - Khiva: Kyzyl-Kum Desert, Ayaz Kala & Toprak Kala

This morning we take an early flight to Nukus or Urgench, and then drive to the Kyzyl-Kum Desert, to explore Ayaz Kala and Toprak Kala. Ayaz Kala, an impressing mudwalled hilltop fortress dating from the 2nd century has magnificent views over the nearby lake. From there, we continue to Toprak Kala which flourished in the 3rd century AD as the capital of the Khoresmshah Dynasty. Later this afternoon, we'll travel by road to Khiva where we can enjoy an evening walk around the incredibly well-preserved old town.

Day 4 Khiva: Full Day Exploring the Many Historic Monuments

Considered a pearl of eastern architecture, Khiva is one of the oldest cities of ancient Khorezm. Legend has it that is was founded by Shem, the son of Noah, and archaeological records can trace its origins back to the 4th or 5th century BC. We will spend today exploring its madrasahs and museums, wandering the narrow streets of the Ichan Kala (inner city) and enjoying the atmosphere and sights of a city that can boast some 50 historic monuments.

Day 5 Khiva – Bukhara: Afternoon Walk & Dinner

Continuing our journey down the old Silk Road, we will make our way to Bukhara. More than 2,000 years old and home to some 140 architectural monuments, the historic centre has been described by UNESCO as the most complete example of a medieval city in Central Asia. Upon arrival later this afternoon, we will take a stroll around the old city before dinner. Driving distance 480km, 7-8 hours approx. 

Day 6 Bukhara: Cultural Highlights, Plov Demonstration & Free Time

Considered to be Central Asia’s holiest city, Bukhara is liberally sprinkled with an architectural legacy that spans a thousand years of history. A centre of trade, culture and scholarship for centuries, under the Samanids the city became a major intellectual centre of the Islamic world. Today we’ll take in some of its highlights, with visits planned to the imposing Ark of Bukhara, the Kunya Ark Complex and the Samanids Mausoleum, the Friday Mosque and Lab-i Hauz, home to the 16th century Kukeldash Madrasah, the largest in the city. Lunch will consist of a plov cookery demo, so that we can see how the national dish of Uzbekistan is made before sampling the results. We will then have the remainder of the day free for shopping and generally relaxing in this most characterful of the old Silk Road towns.

Day 7 Bukhara – Yangikishlak: Experience Village Life

Departing Bukhara this morning our next stop is the village of Yangikishlak, located between Lake Aydarkul and the Nurafshan Mountains. Occupying a fertile valley that forms part of the Nuratau-Kyzyikum Bio-Reserve, this area is home to a number of traditional villages, unique plant life and the highly endangered Severtzov wild sheep. On arrival we will have a chance to settle into our family guesthouse, before enjoying an afternoon’s introduction to the family and to village life. If we’re lucky, we may be able to enjoy some of the region’s traditional music and dance - a wonderful way to learn more about local folklore and legends.  Total driving distance and time: 320km, approx. 5hrs. 

Day 8 Yangikishlak – Samarkand: Nuratau Nature Reserve & Evening in Registan Square

This morning we will visit the Nuratau Reserve by walking through some of the local villages. Offering up a mix of natural and cultural highlights, the area is home to an array of unique plant life and some 160 species of birds. After a delicious lunch prepared by our host family, we journey east towards one of the oldest continually inhabited cities in Central Asia. Once one of the greatest cities on earth, Samarkand is a name that resonates with the commerce and colour of the old Silk Road. We will aim to arrive by evening at the Registan, a sublime combination of three magnificent madrassahs overlooking a square for which this ancient city is so famous.

Day 9 Samarkand: Monuments, Bazaars & Wine-Tasting

Our tour of the city continues today with a visit to the Gur Emir Mausoleum, the final resting place of Tamerlane, the founder of the Timurid Empire. We’ll also take in the Shah-i-Zinda Necropolis and the 15th century Bibi-Khanym Mosque, once considered one of the most magnificent mosques in the Islamic world. After a chance to explore the bustling Siyob Bazaar, there will be some free time before we set out for wine-tasting at the Khovrenko Winery.

Day 10 Samarkand – Tashkent: Konigil Meros Paper Mill, Train to Tashkent

Today we will visit to the fascinating Konigil Meros Paper Mill to see the famous Samarkand paper production process before some time at leisure. Bidding farewell to this famed city, we will take an afternoon train back to Tashkent for the last night of the tour. Full circle, we’ll reminisce about our journey through such a hospitable and vibrant country.

Day 11 Tour finishes in Tashkent

The tour ends this morning after breakfast.

ACCOMMODATION USED ON THIS TOUR

City palace hotel, tashkent.

Located at a short walk to Amir Timur Square, the lively entertainment hub of the city, and the Amir Timur Museum, the City Palace Hotel is also just a 10-minute drive to most of the city’s main sites. A modern 15-storey hotel, City Palace offers 251 tastefully furnished rooms and suites, all featuring private bathrooms with bathtub and shower, satellite TV, a writing desk, a minibar, air-conditioning and standard amenities. During the summer, guests can lounge in the garden by the outdoor swimming pool and bar or head inside to the indoor heated swimming pool, Jacuzzi, Turkish bath and sauna in the winter. Other facilities include a tennis court, a gym and a beauty salon. The stylish Amudaryo restaurant serves a mixture of local and international dishes and you can head to the lounge bar or lobby bar and café for a drink.

Orient Star Hotel (Khiva Madrasah), Khiva

Contained inside the 19th century Mukhamed Aminkhan Madrassah, the Orient Star enjoys a faultless location within the walls of Ichan Qala, the medieval citadel in the heart of Khiva. Only a short walk from the city's mosques, madrassas, palaces and hammams, the building used to be the biggest operational madrassah of the city and held up to 250 students. The traditional building now features 60 simply decorated but comfortable and clean en suite rooms. Once cells of the students who studied here, each room is a historical and architectural adventure. The restaurant and bar, situated in another madrasah next to the hotel, offers Uzbek meals and local wine.

Sasha & Son, Bukhara

Sasha & Sons was a 16th-century Jewish merchant’s house that has been renovated and converted into a beautiful, boutique hotel. Located in the heart of city, and within walking distance from ancient Labi-Hauz complex, the family-run hotel is decorated with art pieces and wall paintings  hand made by well-known Uzbek craftsmen and painters, reminiscent of 18th-century Bukhara. Guests can walk through the peaceful, inner courtyard and up the ornate stairs to the guestrooms. With 20 rooms in total, each offers an individual interior design brimming with local character and comes with standard amenities including air-conditioning and a mini bar. Meals and refreshments can be enjoyed in the dining room or served in the property’s central courtyard.

Nurata Guesthouse (Hayat Village), Nurata Mountains

The Nurata Guesthouse Association is comprised of seven guesthouses across five villages in the Nurata mountains. At each of the guesthouses you will live with the family and be able to observe and join in with their daily lives as well as explore the area on foot or by donkey. The guesthouses are very simple, and bedrooms are usually decorated with rugs and feature kurpacha mattresses. In the winter the guesthouses can become quite cold and are heated with hot coals, whilst in the summer, it is possible to sleep outside. Outdoor bathroom facilities include showers, Western flush toilets and running water. Home cooked meals are taken with the family with the ingredients often coming from the guesthouse’s own vegetable gardens and animals.

Malika Classic Hotel, Samarkand

The Malika Classic Hotel is located in a quiet residential area, roughly 10 minutes by car from Registan Square and the old centre of Samarkand. There are 26 comfortable rooms surrounding the two courtyards and the rooms are furnished in a simple, local style. Each room comes with its own private bathroom, individually controlled air-conditioning, satellite TV and a telephone. Guests can enjoy an al-fresco breakfast on a national bench "supa" in the traditional central courtyard or can experience some authentic, local refreshments and cuisine in the hotel's restaurant and two bars. The restaurant primarily serves breakfast, and lunch and dinner can be prepared on request.

Hotel Rating

Accommodation displayed here should be taken as a guide only. *Please refer to the Detailed Itinerary of your individual departure for more information.

PRIVATE HOLIDAYS: DATES DON’T FIT?

All group tours can be taken on a private basis.

Additional Details

Responsible travel.

With local people, culture and eco-systems in mind, responsible travel and sustainable tourism are at the core of Wild Frontiers. We believe that a successful trip not only delivers a unique and unsurpassable journey for our travellers but also benefits the people and places we visit. When designing our tours, we actively seek out experiences that have a positive impact on the communities and precious environments we visit - from supporting social enterprises; resting our heads in rural homestays; and eating at locally owned restaurants; to helping fund conservation projects that protect wildlife and their habitats.  Visit the Responsible Travel area of our website to read more, including the work of the Wild Frontiers Foundation through which we fundraise to aid community empowerment and education projects.

Staying in the Nurata Mountains

In Central Asia – and in particular Uzbekistan – we like to venture out into the more rural areas, such as the beautiful Nuratau Mountains, where we aim to develop unique relationships that will benefit both the local families and our travellers. Uzbekistan is known for its famed Silk Road cities, and whilst visitors focus on these areas there is little opportunity for those who live rurally to benefit from the country’s ever-growing tourism industry. On this trip we will spend one night in the heart of the Nuratau Valley, and by staying at small family-run guesthouses, we can put much needed funds directly into the local communities. In addition, all food is produced locally so several members of the village benefit financially, which in turn improves several families’ standard of living. The great thing about this kind of interactive tourism is that everyone gains – the locals financially and us from the fuss they make of us!

Reducing Single Use Plastic

We recognise the environmental issues and challenges around single-use plastic in many countries we visit and are actively working with our partners on the ground to reduce plastic waste on our tours and within the hotels and restaurants we visit. You can help to reduce your personal plastic waste by taking a refillable, filtered water bottle with you on your trip. Filtered water bottles can be refilled from water sources including your hotel room and restaurant taps, drinking fountains and refill stations. Every time you refill your bottle without the use of single-use plastic, you will be helping to reduce waste and protect the environment. Filtered Water Bottles | Wild Frontiers (wildfrontierstravel.com)

Getting There

If you would like us to send you a quote for the suggested tour flights or on any alternative flight that may suit you better, please let us know, noting that for our US clients, we will most likely refer you to one of our preferred partners. For this trip our suggested flights from the UK (subject to change) are shown below.

If you wish to arrange your own flights you are completely free to do so and in this case we can arrange any transfers or supplementary accommodation that you may require. However please note that if you are planning on making your own flight arrangements, we recommend that you first check with us to see if the trip is guaranteed. We then suggest that you purchase flights that are flexible and ideally refundable as due to the nature of adventure travel, itineraries and destination accessibility can change at any time. For more information, please refer to our booking conditions.  

Visas are necessary for many of the destinations we travel to and while we aim to provide you with the most up-to-date information, requirements frequently change and as such for the latest advice we advise that you check with the relevant embassies or contact a reputable visa agency. More details can be found here -  https://www.wildfrontierstravel.com/visa

For this tour UK pas sport holders currently do not require a visa for Uzbekistan . Passports should ideally be valid for a minimum period of 6 months from the end of your tour.

Non-UK passport holders or non-UK residents should contact the relevant embassies for individual requirements. VACCINATIONS & ADDITIONAL TRAVEL REQUIREMENTS There are no mandatory vaccination requirements for t ravellers to Uzbekistan.

For all destinations, please make sure you are up-to-date with any standard vaccinations (e.g. MMR, Hepatitis A, Tetanus) as recommended by your local health care provider.  For the most up-to-date information on all vaccination requirements and the most suitable anti-malarial tablets, we strongly suggest that you seek advice from your local travel centre or consult an official travel health website such as www.fitfortravel.nhs.uk or www.travelhealthpro.org.uk Covid Testing : No mandatory testing is currently required for vaccinated or unvaccinated travellers. If necessary further details will be sent out to you upon booking, however ensuring that correct and valid visas & vaccinations are obtained remains the sole responsibility of the client.

If you have more time available, why not arrive early to adjust to a new time zone or just to get a feel for the country before your tour starts? Alternatively, you might choose to allow a few extra days after the tour to relax or to undertake some further exploration. The choice is completely yours and we can usually arrange anything from simply additional accommodation and transfers to full tailor-made itineraries*. Please contact the office for more details and to discuss your requirements.

*Please note bespoke, tailor-made itineraries need to be a minimum of 7 days and we can only offer them in countries where we have a tailor-made expert

Governmental Travel Advice

Many governments issue advice which highlights potential hazards their citizens might experience when travelling abroad. We strongly suggest you refer to your country’s particular advisory site before booking and contact us if you have any queries or concerns. Click to follow links to the advice of the British Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) or the US State Department . Non-UK citizens should consult the travel advice of their respective governments.

Key Information

The high-season in Uzbekistan is spring and autumn when days should be hot without being scorching. At this time of year also evenings are usually cool and very pleasant. Summer and winter, although offering more extreme temperatures are also viable options for Uzbekistan, especially for those who prefer fewer crowds.

IS THIS TRIP FOR ME?

It may sound obvious but Wild Frontiers tours are not always for everyone and it is important to us that the tour you choose is the most suitable. All our tours have a fitness rating as a guideline but you should check the day-by-day itinerary carefully. In certain instances we may ask you to complete a travel questionnaire before confirming your booking in order to ensure your suitability. Should you have any concerns about your ability to partake in any aspect of the tour then please contact the office.

KEY ASPECTS TO CONSIDER

Anyone in a reasonable state of health, with an open mind and a sense of adventure should be perfectly able to cope with this tour, as many of the activities are optional. For instance, you can opt out of the walks in the Nuratau Mountains if you would prefer to focus your attention on village life. There are some long drives on bumpy roads involved in this tour due to the distances we need to cover, but the changing scenery should make these an interesting aspect of the trip.  Please be advised that on this trip vegetarians can be catered for but the selection and variety may be more limited.

THE NATURE OF ADVENTURE TRAVEL

We feel that it’s worth pointing out that while we will always strive to stick as close to the stated itinerary as possible, it may be necessary from time to time to make changes to our itineraries or services (due to weather, political and religious influences etc.) and this can happen with little or no notice. This unpredictability can be one of the most exciting aspects of adventure travel and for many of our clients often leads to unexpected highlights as the tour-leader necessarily adapts the tour to the changing conditions. However we are aware that this lack of assuredness may not suit everyone. As such, with the greatest respect, if you are someone who needs to know that everything will happen exactly as planned, we would kindly suggest that perhaps our tours are not for you. Adventure travel can be infectious and once you’ve caught the bug, it is likely to never leave you, but especially if this is your first such tour we would strongly urge you to give us a call if you have any concerns whatsoever about your suitability for this trip.

TRAVELLING SOLO AND SINGLE SUPPLEMENTS

As a company approximately 70% of our clients are solo travellers, so it’s very unlikely you’ll be alone!

Our prices are typically based on twin-share accommodation but single supplements are not compulsory for any Wild Frontiers tour. If you prefer not to pay a single supplement we’ll pair you with someone else of the same sex for you to share with throughout the trip.

On this trip, if you do opt to pay for a single supplement then please note that it will cover you for all nights of the tour except for the guesthouse in Yangikishlak.

Please note that paying a single supplement entitles you to lone occupancy of a single room. In many cases these rooms will be of the same size as a double/twin room, but in some cases they may be smaller.  

Insurance that provides cover for emergency repatriation in case of a medical emergency is compulsory for all tours. You should be aware that due to some of the geographical areas visited and some of the activities included on certain of our trips some standard insurance policies may not always provide adequate cover. As such we strongly recommend that you purchase a policy that adequately covers your trip. Please see the Insurance section for more details.

General Information

All our tours are priced on a land-only basis, giving you maximum flexibility when deciding how to get to and from your tour.

A 10% deposit is required to confirm your booking.

PROTECTION FOR YOUR MONEY

For further details please see our travelling with peace of mind page

This tour will earn you 6518 Wild Miles

WHAT'S NOT INCLUDED

We believe in a completely transparent approach to pricing with no hidden extras. As such, please note that the following are not included in the cost of the tour. Visas & Travel Insurance: Visas will always be tour/nationality dependent but travel insurance is mandatory Tips: Always optional but some guidance will be given in the pre-departure information documents International Flights: Please ask us for an obligation-free quote for flights which originate in the UK Airport Transfers: We include complimentary transfers if arriving/departing on the suggested group flights Beverages & any costs of a personal nature : This will include items such as laundry and souvenirs

WILD FRONTIERS COMMUNITY

If you’re still not sure if this trip is right or just want to see get some different perspectives, then why not have a look at the wide variety of resources we have on our website? Browse our community section to read our blogs, watch videos and find out about our events. 

WHY WILD FRONTIERS?

We are frequently asked what makes Wild Frontiers different from other tour operators. Visit our Why Wild Frontiers page to find out.

• Silk Road Tours
• Silk Road Group Tour 2024-2025

Silk Road Group Tour 29 days | Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, Azerbaijan, Georgia, Armenia

• Haggle for spices in Tashkent’s vibrant Chorsu Bazaar
• Get lost in Ichan-Qala, Khiva’s ancient walled town
• Enjoy a traditional dance performance
• Be dazzled by Samarkand’s turquoise tiles
• Visit Bukhara’s minarets, mosques, and madrassas
• See the colourful 1,300-year-old murals in the ancient settlement of Penjikent
• Enjoy a picnic next to one of Tajikistan’s Seven Lakes in different shades of blue 
• Step back in time with a visit to Bishkek’s Soviet architecture and murals
• Taste the traditional Dungan dish of ashlan-fu in multi-ethnic Karakol
• Experience the life of a nomad from your yurt next to one of Kyrgyzstan’s highest lakes
• Enjoy a Kyrgyz folkloric show with Kyrgyz national music and songs
• Learn how to make a traditional felt carpet in Kochkor village
• Marvel at the snow-covered peaks as you hike the Ala-Archa alpine gorge

The Silk Road Group Tour has everything to bring out your adventurous side - go from modern cities to ancient ruins, from the greenest of mountains to the driest of deserts. Even across thousands of kilometers and dozens of cities, each country’s local colors and flavors will leave you with a distinct impression. Start in modern Almaty, then head to the towering mountains of Kyrgyzstan, followed by a dip into Tajikistan’s history in Penjikent. Take extra time at the many archaeological sites of Turkmenistan, then wander through the timeless cities of Bukhara and Samarkand. Then move to the Caucasus: travel through time as you discover Azerbaijan, let the tastes of Georgia sweep you away, and finish up with panoramas of Armenia. From rough stone walls to the softest silk, broaden your horizons and deepen your knowledge with the Silk Road Group Tour.

Experience the urban charm of Almaty or the serene beauty of Kolsay Lakes and Charyn Canyon through tailored pre-tours in Kazakhstan.

Explore glittering Astana or nature art at Charyn Canyon with pre-tours in Kazakhstan.

Tour itinerary:

Arrive in Almaty . Our driver will meet you and take you to the hotel. Check in at 14:00. Free time. Overnight at the hotel.

Breakfast. At 09:00, your guide and driver will meet you in the hotel lobby to start a sightseeing tour of Almaty. Highlights of this morning will include Panfilov Park , Zenkov Cathedral , Republic Square, and the Almaty City Museum. After a welcome lunch, a short drive (25 km) will take you to Chimbulak. Here, visit the ski resort and ride the cable car to enjoy the amazing views of the snowy peaks of the Tian Shan Mountains. Our last stop of the day will be the Sunkar Falcon Farm, where you’ll enjoy a spectacular show with specially trained hawks – hunting with these magnificent birds is a distinguishing feature of the Kazakh way of life. Return to the hotel by 18:00. Free time. Overnight at the hotel.

After breakfast depart Almaty and drive to Bishkek via a newly built highway, enjoy nature landscapes on the way (250 km, 4 h.). Upon arrival check-in at the hotel. Start sightseeing tour in Bishkek: visit Oak Park , Ala-Too Square , Statue of Manas. See Philharmonic Hall and Victory Monument – bright examples of Soviet architecture. Overnight at the hotel. Duration of sightseeing tour: 2-3 hours

Breakfast. Depart Bishkek at 09:00. The first stop will be Burana Tower , which was part of the ancient city of Balasagun (11th to 13th centuries) and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Next on the agenda will be experiencing a Kyrgyz national horse game called “Ulak Tartysh” (goat pulling). Ulak Tartysh (also known as Kok Boru) is a fight between two teams of horse riders for a goat carcass. Transfer to Don Aryk village and have lunch at the home of a local Kyrgyz family. After lunch, watch a demonstration of yurt construction and even take part if you wish. Local Kyrgyz women will explain the meaning and use of each part of the yurt. Transfer to Bishkek airport (110 km, ~1h 30 min) to take flight HY780 to Tashkent , which departs at 18:40 and arrives at 19:00 (1h 20 min). Transfer to the hotel for overnight. 

Breakfast. At 09:00, the city tour will begin with a visit to the spectacular Registan Square , followed by the Gur Emir Mausoleum , the final resting place of the Turco-Mongol emperor, Timur. Explore the Bibi Khanum Mosque and Shakhi-Zinda Necropolis , and then take a short drive to Konigil village to find out about the traditional techniques used to make the famous Samarkand paper from mulberry bark. Free time. Overnight at the hotel. Duration of sightseeing tour: 6-7 hours

Breakfast. At 10:00 am, transfer to the Uzbekistan-Tajikistan border point, Jartepa (50 km, 1 h). Upon arrival at the customs and passport control on both sides, kindly proceed to the exit of the border control area. At that point, our guide/driver will be waiting for you with the sign with your name. Meet your local Tajik guide and driver to drive to ancient Penjikent (80 km, ~1 h 30 min), the ruins of a town founded by the Sogdians in the 5th century and abandoned by Arabs in the 8th century. The foundations of houses, a citadel with a couple of Zoroastrian fire temples, and the remains of the city bazaar are visible in the excavated ruins. In the newer part of Penjikent , visit a local bazaar, a mosque, and the Rudaki Museum (Penjikent is the birthplace of Abu Abdallah Rudaki, considered by many to be the father of Persian poetry). After a 3-hour sightseeing tour check in the hotel. Free time. Overnight at the hotel.

Breakfast. Drive to the Seven Lakes (80 km, ~2 h). These lakes are located in the western part of the Fann Mountains . Each lake has its own color, varying from calming turquoise to mesmerizing purple. Have lunch at the guest house next to the 4th lake. Those who would like to enjoy the view from the 7th lake there is an opportunity to have a hiking tour from the 6th lake up to the 7th lake. In the afternoon, drive to the Jartepa border crossing (120 km, 2 h 30 min). Complete the border formalities. On the Uzbek side, your driver will meet you and transfer to Samarkand. Free time in the city. At 20:45 transfer to the railway station. Take the high-speed Afrosiyob train departing at 21:43 and arriving in Bukhara at 23:25 (270 km, 1 h 35 min). Transfer to the hotel for overnight.

Breakfast. At 10:00, start exploring the Old City of Bukhara. Highlights of the walking tour will include: the Lyabi Hauz Ensemble , Magoki-Attori Mosque , Chor-Minor Madrasa , Kalyan Minaret , Kalyan Mosque , Miri-Arab Madrasa , Ulugbek and Abdulazizkhan Madrasas, Ark Fortress , Bolo-Khauz Mosque , Ismail Samani and Chashma-Ayub Mausoleums , and various trading domes . Free time from 15:00 until the National Show at Nadir Divan-begi Madrasa , which starts at 18:00. Overnight at the hotel.

Early breakfast. Depart at 06:30 for the Uzbekistan-Turkmenistan border point, Farap-Alat (100 km, 1 h 30 min). After completing the border formalities at both checkpoints, cross the 1.5 km neutral zone (transportation may not be available) to meet your Turkmen guide. Continue to Merv (300 km, 5 h 30 min), an ancient city that was a major center of international trade and crafts on the Silk Road. Merv is also home to a historical park for you to discover, with sights including: the Sultan Sanjar Mausoleum , Major and Minor Kyz-Kala , Erk-Kala , Gyaur-Kala , Keshk Fortress, and others. Lunch at a local restaurant. Transfer to Mary Airport (40 km, 30 min) to take the evening flight to Ashgabat at 18:10. Upon arrival in Ashgabat at 18:50, transfer to the hotel for overnight.

Breakfast, followed by a sightseeing tour of Ashgabat. Ashgabat, the capital of Turkmenistan, has recently been recognized by the Guinness Book of World Records as having more white marble buildings than any other city in the world. During the city tour, explore the archaeological site of Old Nissa (a UNESCO World Heritage Site) and Spiritual Mosque , one of the biggest mosques in Central Asia. Visit the National Museum of History, the Monument of Neutrality , Ertugrul Gazi Mosque and the recently-built Independence Park . The sightseeing tour will take about 6 hours and the afternoon will feature a drive through the Karakum Desert to the famous Darvaza Gas Crater (280 km, 4 h). After arriving at the crater, camp will be set up and you’ll enjoy a delicious, fire-cooked dinner near the “Gates of Hell”. Overnight in tents. Note: At Darvaza camp you will be accommodated at a yurt or there is an option to have 1- or 2-person tents. In both cases, toilets and basic washing facilities are outside.

Camp-style breakfast. Drive back through the Karakum Desert to the Turkmenistan-Uzbekistan border point, Dashoguz-Shavat (270 km, 4 h). Upon arrival border formalities. After the customs and passport control at both checkpoints, kindly proceed to the exit of the border control area. Your Uzbek driver will meet you to begin the trip to Khiva (60 km, 1 h). Upon arrival, check in to the hotel. Free time.

Breakfast and hotel check out (the hotel will store your luggage safely for the day). Spend the morning at the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Ichan-Kala Fortress . Highlights of the morning walking tour include the Mukhammad Amin Khan Madrasa , Mukhammad Rahimkhan Madrasa , Kalta Minor , Juma Mosque , Tash-Khovli Palace , Pakhlavan Makhmud Mausoleum , and Minaret of Islom Khodja . Farewell dinner. Transfer to Urgench Airport at 20:30 (30 km, 35 min). Your flight to Tashkent departs at 22:55 and arrives at 00:15+1 (1,093 km, 1 h 40 min). Transfer to the hotel in Tashkent for overnight.

At 5 am transfer to Tashkent International Airport to take flight HY 755 to Baku , which departs at 07:35 and arrives at 09:30 (2 h 55 min). Private transfer to your hotel will be arranged. Check-in at 14:00. Free time. Overnight at the hotel.

Breakfast. At 09:30, start a guided sightseeing tour of Baku. Walk along Martyrs’ Lane, known as ‘Shehidler Khiyabany’ among locals, and find a beautiful view overlooking Baku’s coastline. Move to Icheri Sheher , the old part of the city. Visit the Shirvanshah's Palace , Caravanserai , Maiden Tower , and main market square, which has numerous art studios and souvenir stalls. Finish the sightseeing tour by exploring Nizami Street and Fountain Square. After lunch, drive to Gobustan to visit the Petroglyphs Museum and explore petroglyphs dating back to 10,000 BC. The Gobustan Rock Art Cultural Landscape is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Weather permitting, switch to a 4x4 vehicle and continue to the mud volcanoes (Gobustan is home to almost half of the world’s mud volcanoes). Return to Baku. Have a welcome dinner at traditional Azerbaijani restaurant. Overnight at the hotel. Duration of sightseeing tour: 10-11 hours Driving distance: 150 km

After breakfast, drive to the Absheron Peninsula to visit Ateshgah , located in the village of Surakhany. Zoroastrians from India used to travel thousands of kilometres to Ateshgah to worship the fire coming out of the earth. Return to Baku to visit the iconic Heydar Alyev Cultural Centre, which is located in a quirky building designed by Iraqi-British architect Zaha Hadid. Free time in the afternoon. Overnight at the hotel. Duration of sightseeing tour: 4-5 hours Driving distance: 50 km

Breakfast. Depart towards Sheki . On the way, stop at Diri Baba Mausoleum in the village of Maraza. Continue to Shamakhi and visit the historical Juma Mosque . Weather permitting , a scenic drive through Girdimanchay River Canyon to visit Lahich will follow. Lahich, an ancient village with charming cobbled sidewalks, is famous for its medieval water supply and sewage systems, as well as its traditional jewelry, copperware, carpets, pottery, daggers, and iron tools workshops. Continue driving to Sheki, the pleasant and easily walkable medieval town set in a lush mountainous area. Sheki is especially known for local style sweet baklava. Arrival in Sheki at about 19:00 for overnight at the hotel. *Lahich will not be reachable during 2024 due to the road construction.

Breakfast. At 08:30, visit the colorful Sheki Bazaar. Here, you can find virtually everything you may want to eat: local fruits and berries, spices, freshly-baked bread, honey, cheeses, and Sheki sweets. Continue to the Palace of Sheki Khans , which is surrounded by medieval fortress walls, and then visit handicrafts workshops and caravanserai. Leave Sheki and head towards the border with Georgia (115 km, ~2 h). Cross the border and start exploring the Eastern part of Georgia, which is famous for its viticulture and winemaking traditions . Our first stop in Georgia will be the Khareba Winery . On the way there, enjoy the picturesque landscapes of vineyards and wine-producing villages . Khareba’s unique wine cellar is located in a tunnel carved out of the rock. Originally built for military purposes, today the tunnel is used to store Kakheti’s finest wines. Enjoy a wine tour and a tasting session. We will reach the charming Wine Resort, our overnight destination, between 17:30 and 17:30. This Resort is surrounded by beautiful vineyards and offers stunning views of the Caucasus Mountains – the perfect place to take a break before continuing our journey in Georgia. We will stay here for two nights. Driving distance: 180 km Meals: lunch

This day is a free one to enjoy nature, vineyards, and the outdoor swimming pool. The Resort also offers culinary masterclasses of Georgian traditional dishes and a tasting room to sample locally produced wines. Overnight at the hotel. Optional Group Tour to Telavi A journey to the capital of the Kakheti region, Telavi encapsulates visits to two families where you get to meet locals who produce wine and cheese. A delicious family-style lunch awaits you! Experiences: family hospitality, museum, wine amphoras, wine, cheese, local lunch.

• In Telavi, we will step into the past at the Royal Castle History Museum “ Batonistsikhe ” originally built in the 17th century.
• We will then visit Kbilashvili family which for many decades makes Qvevri, the amphora-shape clay vessels used to produce wine in Georgia. We will see how Qvevris are made and taste locally produced wine.
• Our next stop beckons at a family boutique cheese factory and cellar . We will indulge into the world of cheeses and then taste five types of locally produced cheeses. Here, the family will greet us with a delicious lunch.
• We will finish out tour having a short walk through the charming streets of old Telavi and stop for a photo at the monument to Erekli II and the giant 800-years old plane tree .

After the tour, we will bring you back to your hotel. Duration of sightseeing tour: 4-5 hours Driving distance: 25 km Price per person: $70 (including the museum entrance fee, wine tasting, and cheese tasting with lunch).

After a relaxing day at the Wine Resort, we will continue exploring Kakheti at 10:00 by visiting the Tsinandali Estate, the residence of the dukes of Georgia. It has a beautiful English garden, a museum, and a wine cellar that belonged to Prince Chavchavadze, a public figure and poet of the 19th century. For lunch, we will be hosted by a local family, where we can enjoy a traditional feast and hear the best Georgian toasts. A truly local experience awaits you! Having enjoyed the hospitality of our hosts, we will drive to the royal town of Sighnaghi , which is surrounded by defensive walls with 23 towers and was an important point on the Great Silk Road. We will also visit the Bodbe Convent – according to legend, this is the burial place of St. Nino, who converted Georgia to Christianity in the 4th century. We will arrive in the capital of Georgia at about 18:30–19:30. Overnight at the hotel. Driving distance: 160 km Meals: lunch

After breakfast, we will embark on Tbilisi sightseeing tour. Start at Metekhi Church and the monument to Vakhtang Gorgasali, the legendary founder of Tbilisi. Visit Narikala Fortress to enjoy a breathtaking panoramic view of the city. Walk down to the district of sulphur bath houses and pass by the only mosque in Tbilisi. Stroll through the Sharden area, full of narrow streets with cozy cafés, wine tasting bars, and souvenir shops, and breathe in the history of Old Tbilisi. Also visit Sioni Cathedral , Anchiskhati Basilica , and the famous Rezo Gabriadze Theatre ’s clock tower, before crossing the Bridge of Peace to Rike Park . After a couple of hours at your leisure, join the group to proceed to welcome dinner (departing from the hotel by bus at 19:00). Overnight at the hotel.

Breakfast. Today you’ll explore the North of Georgia. The first stop will be at Jvari Monastery , a true architectural masterpiece of the Early Middle Ages, which is picturesquely perched above the confluence of the Aragvi and Mtkvari Rivers. Continue to the Ananuri Complex , a former residence of Argveti Dukes, which features churches and towers dating back to the 16th and 17th centuries and beautifully overlooks Jinvali Reservoir. Next, drive over the Cross Pass and make a short stop at the Soviet-era “People’s Friendship” mountain view point, which overlooks a deep gorge of the Caucasus Mountains. In Kazbegi , switch to a four-wheel drive vehicle to reach Gergeti Holy Trinity Church (located at an altitude of 2,170 m) and enjoy breathtaking views of Mount Kazbegi. Reach Gudauri at about 19:00 for overnight at the hotel.

Breakfast. Drive to Stalin’s home town of Gori . Visit the Stalin Museum , which includes more than 60,000 artifacts, the tiny house where Stalin was born, and an impressive bulletproof train that Stalin used to travel to Yalta and Potsdam. Explore the cave town of Uplistsikhe , which dates back to the Hellenistic Period and is notable for its unique combination of various styles of rock-cut architecture, including both pagan and Christian. Continue to Mtskheta , one of the oldest towns in Georgia and the country’s cultural and religious center. Mtskheta was the capital of the Eastern Georgian Kingdom of Iberia from the 3rd century BC. Visit Svetitskhoveli , the main cathedral of Mtskheta and a sacred place where the robe of Christ is kept. Reach Tbilisi in the evening. Overnight at the hotel.

Breakfast. Free day in Tbilisi (guide and transportation are not provided). Advantour offers an optional culinary masterclass on traditional Georgian food. The masterclass includes 3-4 dishes and snacks and takes 4-5 hours. It should be booked in advance. The price is 60 USD per person. We suggest the following activities and places to visit in Tbilisi:

• Georgian National Museum on Rustaveli Avenue – to visit the “Archaeological Treasury” exhibition;
• National Gallery on Rustaveli Avenue – to see the works of the famous Georgian artists Niko Pirosmani, David Kakabadze, and Lado Gudiashvili;
• Tbilisi flea market at Dry Bridge – where you can find antiquities (many of which are from the Soviet era), paintings by local artists, and handmade Georgian souvenirs;
• David Agmashenebeli Avenue – a recently-renovated pedestrian street full of historical buildings that have beautiful facades in the art nouveau, pseudo gothic, and classicist styles with a mix of typical Georgian ornamentation and balconies. All along the street there are plenty of cozy art cafés, galleries, shops, and wine bars;
• Dezertirebi Bazaar – which sells local, natural products including Georgian sweets (such as churchkhela); various types of dried fruits, nuts, and spices; and Georgian cheeses;
• Funicular railway to Mtatsminda Mountain – which offers a beautiful view of Tbilisi;
• Wander in Sololaki – a neighborhood full of art nouveau houses;
• For nature lovers, we offer a day hike to Birtvisi Canyon and Fortress. Contact us to find out more.

In the evening, you can visit the famous Tbilisi sulphur bath houses to relax in the hot, naturally sulphur-enriched water after a long day of exploring (both public and private rooms are available, but private ones should be booked in advance). For those who are interested in culture, we suggest visiting the State Opera House of Georgia to enjoy a ballet or opera performance ( opera.ge ). You can find out what other cultural events are on in Tbilisi, and book tickets, at tkt.ge .

Breakfast. Meet your driver at the hotel after breakfast to transfer to the Georgian-Armenian border point, Sadakhlo-Bagratashen. Cross the border and meet your Armenian guide and driver to start the journey to the land of ancient traditions and the ancient churches. Drive to the Lori region and visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Haghpat Monastery . This stunning example of traditional Armenian architecture was erected between the 10th and 13th centuries. Standing on a hillside, Haghpat beautifully overlooks the Debed River Canyon. The monastery’s location was chosen to protect the peace and seclusion of the monks. Drive through Dilijan to Lake Sevan , one of the largest high-mountain freshwater lakes in the world. The lake’s coastline is rich with dense woods, white cliff faces, mountain steppes, and Alpine meadows. Visit Sevanavank Monastery, which is situated at the lake and is surrounded by mountains. Reach Yerevan , the capital of Armenia, in the evening. Overnight at DoubleTree by Hilton hotel.

Breakfast. In the morning, drive out of the city to Etchmiadzin , the Holy See of Armenia and the residence of the head of the Armenian Apostolic Church – the Catholicos of All Armenians. Return to explore Yerevan, the oldest capital city in the South Caucasus. Yerevan is known as the Pink City and attracts visitors with its humble yet splendid landscapes. Our first stop in Yerevan will be at the Armenian Genocide Memorial Complex on Tsitsernakaberd Hill. Visit the Cascade Monument , a 500-metre high, 50-metre wide limestone staircase with no less than 572 steps. From the top of the monument, enjoy a breathtaking city view that includes the Opera House , Mount Ararat , Swan Lake, Republic Square , and Abovyan Avenue, all of which we’ll see as we walk the streets of Yerevan. The sightseeing tour will finish in the afternoon, after which you’ll have some free time. Overnight at the hotel.

At 08:00, we check out from the hotel and head to Khor Virap Monastery. According to the legend, St. Gregory the Illuminator, the Baptist of Armenia, had been kept in the basement here for 13 years for disseminating of Christianity until King Tradt decided to adopt the new religion. The monastery’s location allows you to enjoy the best views of Mount Ararat. Drive to Noravank Complex situated on a ledge of a deep winding gorge. Noravank stands amidst the bizarrely shaped, precipitous red cliffs. Continue to Areni Cave complex, where in 2008, the earliest shoe in the world was found. On the way back to Yerevan, stop at Areni winery to taste wines made from local grape varieties. Arrive in Yerevan at around 18:00. Overnight at the hotel.

Depart Yerevan and drive to Garni , the only pagan temple in Armenia that survived the introduction of Christianity in the 4th century. Descend Garni Gorge to explore a monumental rock formation called Symphony of Stones. Next stop is the monastery complex called Geghard (“spear”). The beautiful landscape of Geghard is framed by towering cliffs. Decorative art cut into the rocks reflect and explain Medieval development in this part of the world. The complex appeared in the 4th century around the sacred spring inside of the cave. You will have a free afternoon to explore more of Yerevan. Here are our suggestions:

• Ararat Brandy Factory
• History Museum
• Souvenirs market “Vernisage”

We meet in the evening for a farewell dinner at one of local traditional restaurants. Overnight at the hotel.

Check-out from the hotel till noon. Free time till transfer to Yerevan International Airport. End of the tour.

• All transfers;
• Accommodation based on double/twin room sharing, breakfasts included;
• Entrance tickets to sights as per itinerary;
• Economy-class tickets for flights: Bishkek-Tashkent, Mary-Ashgabat, Urgench-Tashkent, Tashkent-Baku;
• Economy-class tickets for trains: Tashkent-Samarkand-Bukhara (on rare occasions when the high-speed train is unavailable, we will replace this with the most-comfortable class of regular train);
• Visa support for Turkmenistan tourist visa ;
• E-visas to Tajikistan, Uzbekistan and Azerbaijan;
• National Folklore Show in Bukhara on Day 9;
• Meals: welcome lunch in Almaty on Day 2, lunch at the home of a local family on Day 4, lunch at Seven lakes on Day 7, lunch in Penjikent on Day 7, lunch in Mary on Day 10, camp-style dinner at Darvaza on Day 11, dinner in Khiva on Day 13, dinner in Baku on Day 15, lunch in a local family on Day 20, dinner in Tbilisi on Day 21, farewell dinner in Yerevan on Day 28;
• Three wine tastings: Khareba (GE), Tsinandali (GE), Areni (AM).
• Surcharge for staying in a single room;
• Full board (lunches and dinners not specified above);
• Hotel charges for additional services;
• Personal travel insurance;
• A tax of 2 USD per night in Turkmenistan, paid to the hotel upon check out;
• Consular fees for Turkmenistan tourist visas (80 USD) and migration tax (14 USD);
• Consular fees for Uzbekistan tourist visa at Tashkent International Airport (60-80 USD);
• Visa support for Kyrgyzstan and Kazakhstan tourist visas (if necessary);
• E-visas to Georgia and Armenia (if necessary);
• Outbound and inbound flight tickets.

Dates & Prices, per person

100% guaranteed departures – even if there is only 1 traveler.

Group size: 1-16 persons

Please note that itinerary and prices are subject to change due to airline and train schedule changes, currency fluctuations and other unforeseeable events.

We strongly recommend NOT to purchase airline tickets for 2025 tours without discussing it with your travel consultant.

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Uzbekistan Tours & Vacations

Experience a remote adventure – well and truly off the tourist trail – in dazzling Uzbekistan.

There are the famous cultural sites we’ve been told we have to visit (here’s looking at you, Instagram), and then there are the iconic sites we never knew we had to see . Like the glittering turquoise domes of Registan Square in Samarkand, the breathtaking Kalon Mosque and Minaret in the ancient Silk Road city of Bukhara . And outside of the cities, Uzbekistan is just as full of surprises – like the traditional villages of the Nuratau Mountains or a desert-bound yurt camp. This is Uzbekistan, in all its charming glory

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Uzbekistan at a glance

Capital city.

Tashkent (population: 3 million)

Uzbek Sum (UZS)

Uzbek (official), Russian (widely spoken), Tajik (widely spoken)

(GMT+05:00) Tashkent

CALLING CODE

Electricity.

Type C (European 2-pin) and Type F (2-pin with earth sockets) 220V supply voltage and 50Hz

Learn more about Uzbekistan

Geography and environment.

Located in Central Asia and sharing borders with  Turkmenistan ,  Kazakhstan ,  Tajikistan ,  Kyrgyzstan  and Afghanistan, Uzbekistan is one of only two double-landlocked countries in the world (the other is Liechtenstein).

It has a variety of different terrain, and travelers can expect to see deserts, mountains and valleys with little water mainly due to most areas receiving very little rainfall throughout the year.

As a result of this, much of Uzbekistan's countryside is dusty, sandy and dry, with pockets of fertile, green land interspersed throughout the rocky landscapes.

The Kyzylkum Desert is one of the country’s biggest features; a red sand desert (Kyzylkum means red sand in Turkic) located between two rivers – Amu Darya and Syr Darya. It spans Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan and Turkmenistan.

This part of Uzbekistan is largely inhabited by Kazakh ethnic people, some of whom are nomadic and inhabit traditional yurt-style homes. The Karakum Desert (meaning black sand) is predominantly found in Turkmenistan but also spans Uzbekistan.

Another prominent topographical feature of Uzbekistan is the Nuratau Mountains, found east of the Kyzylkum Desert. These mountains are a luscious ecosystem of forests, rivers, lakes and small villages. This area sees snow in the winter months.

Read about the top 5 places to see in Uzbekistan

If local handicrafts and unique cultural items are your bag, then you'll love shopping in Uzbekistan. Whether you’re in a large city like Tashkent or a local bazaar in a small town, there'll be opportunities to buy local souvenirs.

When you visit mosques or other historic buildings in Tashkent, Samarkand, Bukhara and Khiva, you’ll find many little shops full of knick-knacks like traditional clothing and accessories, hand-painted ceramics, colorful doppi (skullcaps) woolen hats, handmade cloaks and embroidered bags.

In the old city of Tashkent, a visit to the Chorsu Bazaar is a must. This traditional bazaar is frequented by locals and travelers alike and is famed for its attractive, blue-domed ceiling. You can buy everything here from fresh fruits and vegetables, spices, sweets, local breads and meat (including the local delicacy of horsemeat), through to jewelry, souvenir knives, ceramics and clothes.

There's also a large street food market where you can eat a number of local favorites including fried pike, plov, kababs, soups, manti and more.

In Samarkand, the Siyob Bazaar is the place to for artistic souvenirs, traditional clothing and embroidery. It's also where locals shop for all types of fresh produce, dairy, baked goods and meat. Most vendors are happy to let you try before you buy, which can be a fun way to explore the market.

Culture and customs

There are mixed ethnicities in Uzbekistan with Uzbek making up 80% of the population. Other ethnicities include Russian, Tajik, Kazakh and even Korean and Armenian. This is largely due to its strategic location as part of the ancient Silk Road trade route between the East and West.

Uzbekistan was part of the Persian Empire in the 4th century, when Alexander the Great arrived and married a local Uzbek chieftain’s daughter in Samarkand. This attracted the attention of Western Turks, who ceased their nomadic existence in the 6th century and settled in Uzbekistan. The introduction of Islam in the 8th century then saw many Arabic groups immigrate into the area.

In the 13th century, Genghis Khan conquered Uzbekistan as part of his Mongol empire which was followed by numerous smaller invasions. The most notable of these was Amir Timur (also known as Tamerlane), who dreamed of restoring Uzbekistan to the former glory of Genghis Khan’s Mongol empire. Amir Timur was an Islamic leader but led a people and army that was inclusive of a range of ethnicities. He was known as a patron of arts, architecture and intelligence.

The next great change in Uzbekistan came in the form of the Soviet takeover in the late 19th century. While it was part of the Soviet Union until 1991, Uzbekistan has retained much of its Islamic history and culture, making it a melting pot of Russian, Central Asian and Islamic customs today. It's a welcoming yet conservative society.

Eating and drinking

Food in Uzbekistan is hearty, with an emphasis on red meat, bread and noodle-based dishes. Both green and black loose-leaf tea are the national drink and accompany all meals; they're traditionally drank without milk or sugar.

Unlike many other conservative countries, alcohol is widely available and accepted in Uzbekistan, largely thanks to the Soviet influence from the 20th century. Some restaurants may have designated dry areas but will often still serve alcohol to people over the age of 20, which is the legal drinking age. Locals toast to good health in Uzbek by saying  rahmat .

Below are some must-try dishes in Uzbekistan:

Uzbekistan’s national dish and version of pilaf. A rice dish containing pieces of meat, onions, yellow carrots, spices and sometimes raisins or chickpeas.

Many varieties of local soups normally include a thin broth, pieces of meat, an assortment of vegetables, and rice or noodles. They're normally topped with fresh herbs like parsley and dill and served with local bread.

Uzbekistan’s answer to a meat pie, somsa is a street food pastry filled with minced meat, onions and spices.

A Turkic style steamed or boiled dumpling filled with spiced minced lamb or beef meat. It's often served with yogurt as a dressing.

A kebab can refer to a variety of grilled meat dishes, often cooked over an open flame and served with onions and tomatoes. A shish kebab is a common type and consists of spiced, ground meat that has been skewered and cooked over a fire.

Festivals and events

Due to the melting pot of cultures and ethnic groups in Uzbekistan, there are a diverse number of national, historical and religious holidays recognized. Some of the most popular ones include:

Independence Day

This day marks Uzbekistan’s independence from the Soviet Union and is celebrated with feasts and festive performances throughout the entire country.

Day of Defenders of the Native Land

This has been celebrated since 1992 to honour the creation of Uzbekistan’s own armed forces after their liberation from the Soviet Union.

Navruz is one of the oldest national holidays that celebrates the spring equinox. Families celebrate with traditional feasts.

Day of Memory and Honour

This day celebrates the opening of the Square of Memory in Tashkent, which honors the memory of national heroes who have defended Uzbekistan over the centuries.

The cultural festival of Boysun Bahori

This festival dates back to the Persian Empire and celebrates ancient local traditions through a celebration of song, dance and storytelling. It has been labeled a UNESCO Masterpiece of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity.

Ramadan Hayit

Since gaining independence from the Soviet Union, Ramadan Hayit has been celebrated to mark the end of the 30 days of fasting and purification of Ramadan. There is no exact day, but each year, there are several days of celebration and traditional feasting, and the first of these days is a public holiday.

Public holidays that may impact travel include:

Day of Memory and Remembrance

Eid al-Fitr

Eid al-Adha

Day of Teachers and Instructors

Constitution Day

Please note dates of Uzbekistan's public holidays may vary.

Top 5 monuments of Uzbekistan

Uzbekistan is full of spectacular monuments and buildings. Here are five you shouldn't miss.

1. Ark Fortress

Bukhara's massive fortress is a most impressive architectural wonder. Masked in legend, tourists flock to this grand structure to admire its existence and gain some understanding of local history. If the walls could talk they'd speak of royal dynasties, Mongol conquerors and Bolshevik sieges, all taking place over hundreds of years of history.

Uncover this fort's fascinating history on our 17 day Central Asia Explorer tour

2. Shah-i-Zinda Mausoleum

This ancient, sprawling complex features mausoleums and other buildings used for rituals and worship. With intricately carved mosaics, elaborate tile work and arched doors, a visit here reveals architectural gems and fascinating moments in Central Asia's history.

3. Ak-Saray Palace

Shakhrisabz is home to many monumental buildings, but one of the most spectacular is the ruins of the awesome Ak-Saray Palace. With colored, glazed bricks that shimmer in the sun, elegant mosaics and splendid calligraphy, this monument is a standout of Uzbekistan.

4. Bibi Khanum Mosque

This huge, holy site located in Samarkand was built all the way back in the 14th century. Suffering damage due to earthquakes and the ravages of time, it has now been partially restored and stands as a magnificent example of Central Asian Islamic architecture.

Marvel at this stunning mosque on our 9 day Uzbekistan Adventure

5. The Registan

Hailed as one of Central Asia's most recognizable monuments, the Registan's towering minarets, blue domes and beautiful, tiled exteriors are decadently dazzling. The interiors are as exceptional as the facade, so don't miss a visit here while traveling through Samarkand.

Tick off this iconic monument on our 10 day Premium Uzbekistan trip

Similar destinations

Inspired by Uzbekistan but still curious about other destinations? Check out our tours to neighboring countries:

Turkmenistan

Further reading

Uzbekistan travel faqs, do i need a covid-19 vaccine to join an intrepid trip.

Trips from 1 January 2023 onwards

From 1 January 2023, Intrepid will no longer require travelers to provide proof of vaccination against COVID-19 (excluding all Polar trips and select adventure cruises).

However, we continue to strongly recommend that all Intrepid travelers and leaders get vaccinated to protect themselves and others.

Specific proof of testing or vaccination may still be required by your destination or airline. Please ensure you check travel and entry requirements carefully.

Do I need a visa to travel to Uzbekistan?

Over 60 nationalities do not require a visa for Uzbekistan for stays of up to 30 days, including most European countries, the United Kingdom, Australia, New Zealand, Canada and most Latin American countries.

Your passport should be valid for a minimum period of 6 months from the date of entry into Uzbekistan.

E-visas For the 70 or so nationalities not included in the visa exemption list, an e-visa is available. The e-visa is issued for a period of stay in the territory of Uzbekistan up to 30 days with a single entry, or 90 days with a double or multiple-entry visa with a limit of 30 days for each entry. 

Travelers must submit an online application for a visa at least three working days before the planned date of travel to Uzbekistan. Check if you are eligible for an e-visa and apply.

Information required for an e-visa application includes:

• Address of your joining point hotel
• You will need to have a scanned PDF copy of your passport to upload for your application
• You will need to upload a passport photo that meets the standard of ICAO
• Your passport will need to be valid for at least three months after you’ve entered Uzbekistan to obtain a visa.

Last updated: 30/11/2023

Is tipping customary in Uzbekistan?

Tipping isn't generally expected in Uzbekistan but is considered polite, particularly when considering the low wages earned by service workers. Leaving 10-15% extra for guides, porters, restaurant workers and taxi drivers is always appreciated.

What is the internet access like in Uzbekistan?

Travelers should be able to use the internet in the cafes, hotels and restaurants of Uzbekistan's big cities. Rural areas will have little to no access so be prepared to disconnect from the net when travelling in remote areas.

Can I use my cell phone while in Uzbekistan?

Coverage is generally good in the cities but is not available in remote and mountainous areas. Ensure that global roaming is activated before leaving home but be aware that you may not be able to access texts and calls when in Uzbekistan.

Buying a local SIM card from a general store to put in your cell phone is an easy way to ensure you'll have more reliable access to texts and calls in cities. Some stores require you to show your passport to buy a SIM card.

What are the toilets like in Uzbekistan?

Uzbekistan has a mix of Western and squat toilets, with Western-style toilets usually found in city hotels, cafes and tourist areas, and more basic toilets found in rural areas. Be prepared by carrying your own toilet paper, hand sanitizer and/or soap as these aren't always provided.

Can I drink the water in Uzbekistan?

Drinking water from the tap isn't recommended in Uzbekistan. Tea is served with most meals and we recommend you ask your leader where filtered water can be found instead of relying on bottled water.

Are credit cards accepted widely in Uzbekistan?

Foreign credit cards aren't widely accepted so be sure to carry other modes of payment when traveling in Uzbekistan.

What is ATM access like in Uzbekistan?

Relying on ATM access isn't wise when traveling in Uzbekistan. Be sure to arrive in Uzbekistan with enough USD for the trip to exchange at the airport or hotels for local currency. While you will encounter some ATMs, operational ATMs that accept foreign cards are hard to come by.

When is the best time to visit Uzbekistan?

Most of Uzbekistan has an extreme continental climate with sweltering summers and freezing winters. With such pronounced seasons, March to mid-June and September to October are considered the best times to visit as you’ll avoid the extreme weather. The desert is also in bloom briefly during spring, while the harvest season in fall means the markets are full of fresh produce. However, spring and fall are also the peak seasons, so you may want to consider visiting outside of these months if you prefer smaller crowds. 

What is the weather in Uzbekistan like?

Uzbekistan’s summer between June and August can get very hot, reaching high 104 ˚F ( 40 ˚C ) in the cities. In the winter months between December and February, it can drop a few degrees below freezing. Over spring and autumn, the weather is cool to mild, with temperatures ranging anywhere from about 46 ˚F (8˚C) to high 60s ˚F (20 s ˚C) in the cities.

What should I wear in Uzbekistan?

While Uzbekistan is a conservative country, western clothing is worn by many people, particularly in the larger cities. Both men and women will need to cover their shoulders and knees at certain historic and religious sites, so it is a good idea to wear pants/ skirts that reach the knee and avoid singlets where possible. Carrying a scarf to wrap around your shoulders is also an option.

Is Uzbekistan a safe destination for LGBTQIA+ travelers?

Everyone should feel comfortable when they travel with Intrepid, and we know that many of our travelers are part of the LGBTQIA+ community. It’s important for our travelers to be aware of the local laws and customs. 

Same-sex relationships between men are illegal under Uzbek law. The law does not specifically address same-sex sexual activity between women or the status of transgender people.

Regardless, if you're a man or woman in a same-sex relationship and are traveling with your partner, it's best to avoid any public displays of affection and discussing your relationship with locals openly.

Double rooms have twin beds as a standard and our trips are twin share (unless you request a single supplement), so asking for one room is unlikely to raise any suspicions. Travelers will find little scrutiny compared to locals, but using discretion is advised in this tightly monitored country.

For more detailed and up-to-date advice, we recommend visiting  Equaldex  or  Smartraveller  before you travel.

Is Uzbekistan accessible for travelers with disabilities?

Intrepid are committed to making travel  accessible  for everyone, regardless of ability or disability. That’s why we do our best to help as many people see the world as possible, regardless of any physical or mental limitations they might have. We’re always happy to talk to travelers with disabilities and see if we can help guide them toward the most suitable itinerary for their needs and where possible, make reasonable adjustments to our itineraries.

However, Uzbekistan can be a difficult destination for travelers with disabilities, with very little infrastructure at sights or hotels. Smaller hotels are unlikely to have lifts and even larger ones may have floors without lift access. Few locals will have experience in interacting with people with disabilities and assistance from staff isn’t guaranteed. The traditional architecture of old towns in places like Bukhara and Khiva can make getting around challenging with uneven ground, narrow doorways, steps and unrestored brickwork, etc. Other hazards include broken paving, open drains, uncovered manholes and exposed utility pipes. Crossing the street in Tashkent often requires using underpasses rather than street level crossings. Metro entrances and underpasses may sometimes look to be equipped with wheelchair lifts but are unlikely to be operational.

For those with mobility restrictions or wheelchair users, getting around will take plenty of patience and determination. If you are traveling to Uzbekistan and have a disability your experience will be greatly enhanced if you can travel with a companion who can help when the infrastructure and customer service aren’t able to meet your needs.

Do I need to purchase travel insurance before traveling?

Absolutely. All passengers traveling with Intrepid are required to purchase travel insurance before the start of their trip. Your travel insurance details will be recorded by your leader on the first day of the trip. Due to the varying nature, availability and cost of health care around the world, travel insurance is very much an essential and necessary part of every journey.

For more information on insurance, please go to: Travel Insurance

How do I stay safe and healthy while traveling?

From Australia?

Go to: Smart Traveller

From Canada?

Go to:  Canada Travel Information

From the UK?

Go to:  UK Foreign Travel Advice

From New Zealand?

Go to:  Safe Travel

From the US?

Go to:  US Department of State

The World Health Organisation also provides useful health information.

Does my trip support The Intrepid Foundation?

Yes, all Intrepid trips support the Intrepid Foundation. Trips to this country directly support our global Intrepid Foundation partners, Eden Reforestation Projects and World Bicycle Relief. Intrepid will double the impact by dollar-matching all post-trip donations made to The Intrepid Foundation.

Eden Reforestation Projects

Eden Reforestation Projects are helping to mitigate climate change by restoring forests worldwide; they also hire locally and create job opportunities within vulnerable communities. Donations from our trips support restoration across planting sites in 10 countries around the globe. Find out more or make a donation World Bicycle Relief

World Bicycle Relief provides people in low-income communities with bicycles to mobilize school kids, health workers, and farmers in far-out areas – giving them access to vital education, healthcare, and income. Donations help provide Buffalo Bicycles – specifically designed to withstand the rugged terrain and harsh environment of rural regions – to those who need them most. Find out more or make a donation

Uzbekistan and the Silk Route

12 day escorted tour.

Central Asia's cradle of culture for millennia, Uzbekistan's place at the heart of the ancient Silk Road has attracted architects, scientists and mathematicians for centuries, as well as marauding conquerors intent on plundering the riches within. Explore the rich and fascinating history of this welcoming country with tours of its stunning mosques, immense citadels and breath-taking mausoleums and discover the huge influence it has had on the world in everything from mathematics to military tactics.

• Explore Uzbekistan's cosmopolitan capital Tashkent
• Visit the colossal Kalta Minor Minaret
• Discover Bukhara, Central Asia's holiest city
• Delight in a Khoresmian Folk show with dinner
• Visit the ruins of Ak Saray Palace in Shakrisabz
• Enjoy a delicious wine tasting at the Khovrenko Winery
• Follow an ancient trading route across the Kyzyl Kum desert
• Gaze in awe at Registan square
• Enjoy a cookery class with a local family in Samarkand

Depart UK on your scheduled flight to Tashkent

On arrival into Tashkent, you will be met by a local guide and transferred to your hotel. You will have a few hours to refresh and then just before lunch you will head out to enjoy a cultural tour of Tashkent starting with Hast Imam Square. Built on the tomb of known scientist, scholar and craftsman Hazrati Imam, the square is the religious centre of Tashkent and home to a number of beautiful mosques, monuments and madrasas. A madrasa is a centre of Islamic learning and there are some excellent medieval examples here such as the elegant blue-domed Barak-Khan Madrasa with its imposing, but no less elegant gateway, as well as the Muyi Muborak Madrasa with its intricately carved ceilings and ancient manuscripts, including the Osman Koran, considered to be the oldest copy of the Koran in the world. As a contrast to these 16th Century sites, you'll then visit the Chorsu Bazaar and experience the hustle and bustle of everyday Central Asian life as everything from spices, grains and fruits are sold. This is followed by a visit to the Alisher Navoi Opera and Ballet Theatre Square built in neoclassical style by famous Russian architect Alexey Shchusey. Finally you'll pay a visit to Mustaqilik (Independence Square) home to the country's senate and government buildings.

Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Morning at leisure before catching your flight to Urgench for your transfer to Khiva. You will have an afternoon at leisure.

Breakfast & Dinner

An important trading post on the Silk Road for centuries due to its position halfway between China and Rome, Khiva is a colourful treat for the eyes and a UNESCO-listed treasure that feels more like an open-air museum than a functioning city. Today, you'll get the chance to wander its ancient streets and discover a millennium of history on a fascinating guided tour. Gaze up at the imposing mud-brick walls of Ichan Kala, Khiva's inner city; explore the 12th century fortress of Kuhna Ark and wonder at the intricately tiled Pahlawan Mahmud Mausoleum, built in honour of the brave Uzbek hero Pahlavan Mahmoud.

After breakfast, board a coach or minibus and enjoy the vastness of the Uzbekistan Desert views from Khiva to Bukhara. Upon arrival, you will have time to explore the local area.

One of the most ancient cities in Uzbekistan, Bukhara is over 3000 years old and dates back to nearly a thousand years before Alexander the Great's conquest of Central Asia. Like most historic cities in Uzbekistan it was an important trading post along the Silk Road, but is probably better known throughout the Islamic world as a being a great centre of learning and has even been referred to as Central Asia's holiest city. Today, you will get the opportunity to explore some of its many architectural wonders on a guided tour of the city. The formidable Ark citadel was initially built in the 5th century and was the fortified residence of the rulers of Bukhara for centuries, containing palaces, temples barracks and even a prison. It has been destroyed and subsequently rebuilt many times, including by Genghis Khan who ransacked Bukhara in 1220 AD. Your tour guide will escort you around the various minarets, mosques, madrassas and mausoleums of the city before leaving you to explore this architectural wonder at your own pace.

Today is at leisure to wander this fabulous city, exploring its bazaars, stone pools and ancient streets without a guide.

After breakfast, depart for Samarkand stopping en route at the 'green city' of Shakhrisabz. With a well-groomed, green and modern appearance it's hard to believe the city is over 2700 years old. The centre of the city has been declared a UNESCO world heritage site and contains an exceptional collection of monuments, including the gleaming white Ak Saray Palace built for Amir Timur or Tamerlane, famous warrior Khan, military tactician and founder of the Timurid Empire. Born in a neighbouring village, Tamerlane turned Shakrisabz into his residence after assuming power and ordered his architects to build a series of intricate mausoleums and stunning mosques, the ruins of which can still be explored today. Leaving the Timurids 1st city behind you'll continue onwards to the 14th century capital of their empire, Samarkand.

Samarkand is the epitome of a journey along the Silk Road. The name alone conjures up romantic, almost mythical images of vast tiled squares; huge blue domes sparkling in the sun and patterned minarets reaching into the sky. A trip to Registan, the city's Timurid heart and Central Square proves this to be a reality and showcases the fine work of Tamerlane's master craftsmen and builders, acquired from throughout his sprawling empire. A wide mosaicked square is backed by three immense madrasas, beautifully adorned in intricate blues green and violet patterns, each one a monument to the city's place as the intellectual capital of the region. During the middle ages the city attracted the greatest scholars, architects and scientists around, which can be seen first hand on your visit to Ulugbek's Observatory. Grandson of Tamerlane, Ulugbek was a famous astronomer, scientist and architect whose observatory helped him to produce the most comprehensive catalogue of stars since the 2nd century and greatly advance the world's understanding of the solar system. You can pay your respects to both him and his famous conquering grandfather at the sumptuous Gur- Emir, the ornately decorated mausoleum of the royal family. Once a marvel of the east, its influence can be seen in the style of the great architectural tombs of the Mughal dynasty of North India such the Taj Mahal in Agra. Before dinner, visit the Khovrenko Winery and sample a range of Samarkand wines.

This morning, you'll visit the Koni Ghil Paper Mill renowned for making paper of such exquisite quality that only sultans, emirs and viziers could afford it. This 'royal' paper has been exported along the Silk Road for centuries and many 9th and 10th century Arabic and Persian manuscripts were written on it. After this you'll explore one of the treasures of Samarkand, the Bibi-Khanym Mosque built in the late 14th century as a tribute to Tamerlane's wife as well as his victory in Delhi. It is one of the best-known architectural wonders of Central Asia. You'll have a chance to do some shopping at the local Siyab bazaar, before having the rest of the day at leisure to explore this UNESCO listed city at your own pace. This evening you will have the chance to experience a little modern Uzbek culture by enjoying dinner with a local family who will provide a master class in cooking Pilav, a famous rice based dish in Uzbekistan

Take the morning at leisure, you can spend more time shopping in Siab Bazaar or relax with a coffee in the boulevards around Registan Square. Take a train to Tashkent where you can enjoy a festive farewell dinner to round off this unforgettable trip.

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast, before transferring to the airport for your return flight to the UK or onto your chosen extension.

This tour can be booked by calling 0330 818 8907

Sorry we cannot book this tour online at the moment.

Accommodation

Tour Reviews

Some muddle up with hotels, asked for a double bed rather than twin beds. A bit more free time would be good and the overall pace on the tour was good for an older group. Excellent guide.

Nigel Tompkins

Most hotels were very good with the exception of the Area Hotel in Samarkand which didn't meet the standards of the others.

The hotels were good especially Arkanchi Hotel and Malika Hotel. This was a fantastic tour from start to finish. The excursions were brilliant and the tour rep Shirin was excellent. She was so knowledgeable about Uzbek history and the social changes in her country. The Ubekistan Airways was also good. I would recommend this tour to other people as a wonderful experience.

The hotels were on the whole good but the Asia group had extremely hard beds. The Asia Tashkent was also not so good with the breakfast. All the others were excellent.

D Patterson

The guide and driver were amazing they thought of everything.

Best hotel was where we could meet informally as at Bukhara but all hotels clean and service fine

Brian Sheffield

City Palace was by far best standard and comfort. All hotels were in great central locations

Excellent service from start to finish. Outstanding guide and driver.

Anne Dunbar

All the hotels were in good very central locations

Jill Spencer

Nice size rooms. Clean and comfortable. All very handy for sight seeing

Philip Mansfield

All hotels were well located and of the expected standard. The Tashkent hotel being particularly good.

Standard hotels suitable for short stays on tour

Extend Your Tour

Uzbekistan and the Silk Route with Fergana Valley Extension

Important information.

The order of events and sightseeing may vary according to local conditions or for operational purposes. The schedules of the domestic airlines in country are subject to frequent changes. For this reason, we have indicated approximate times only. Your local guide will inform you of any schedule changes as they are informed of them. Some road construction &/or weather conditions may lengthen the driving times. Our intention is to adhere to the day-to-day itinerary as printed; however, order of events and sightseeing may vary according to local conditions.

If booking more than 12 weeks before departure a deposit of £295.00pp will need to be paid at the time of booking with the full amount payable at 12 weeks prior to departure. The deposit applies to adults and children. If you are within 12 weeks of travel then the full balance of the holiday will be payable.

If you’re visiting Uzbekistan, your passport should have an ‘expiry date’ at least three months from the day you arrive and at least two blank pages.

A visa is not required for your trip to Uzbekistan. You must register with the local district OVIR (Department of Foreign Travel and Exit) within three days of your arrival. Saturdays and Sundays count as part of the three-day period. If you’re staying in a hotel, you’ll be asked for your passport at check-in. Hotel staff will complete the registration paperwork and return your passport. If you do not register within 3 days of arrival in the country, you get fined for each day you are late so it is important to ensure that it is done to avoid any issues when leaving the country. Upon departure, you may be required to show proof of registration, so it's essential to keep your registration slip/s safe. Further advice should be sought from the applicable tourist authority for other nationalities and for general queries. We strongly advise you check your destinations’ Tourist Board or Embassy for the most up-to-date guidelines regarding passport validity.

Please note that final flight details will be confirmed on your e-ticket and final documentation which will be sent to you approximately 21 days before departure. Weight restrictions will be finalized on your final documentation. Should you wish to take additional luggage you will need to pay extra at check-in. Check-in should be at least 3 hours before departure. If you wish to arrange Airport car parking or accommodation at preferential rates, we recommend you book this in advance with Holiday Extras on 0871 360 2000, quoting HX313.

IMPORTANT: A printed E-ticket is no longer required at check-in, all you need to do is present your passport to the staff at the desk and your boarding pass will be given to you. Please note that you should carry your invoice with flight details on it as you will need to show this at the airport.

We strongly recommend that you and all members of your party are suitably insured as soon as you book your holiday. It is a condition of booking that you must have suitable travel insurance. It is important that you purchase travel insurance that suitably covers your participation in whatever activities you may undertake at the time that you make your booking. To assist you with this, we have arranged travel insurance in partnership with Holiday Extras. To arrange your travel insurance with Holiday Extras, please call 0800 781 4237 and quote 'WK830' for preferential rates. Please ensure you provide us with the name of your insurer, policy number and their 24-hour emergency contact number as soon as possible. Mercury Holidays will not be liable for any costs incurred by you due to your failure to take out suitable travel insurance from the date of booking.

It is your responsibility to check any health and vaccination requirements applicable to your booked arrangements. We can only provide general information about this. Health and hygiene facilities and disease risks vary from country to country. You should take health advice about your own needs as early as possible and in good time before your departure. Sources of information include; www.fco.gov.uk , www.travelhealthpro.org.uk/ , www.hpa.org.uk , your General Practitioner or a specialist clinic.

This tour is accessible to most people with an average level of fitness and normal mobility. It involves moderate days of walking on uneven paths and small hills, and getting on and off coaches. This tour is not suitable for anyone with walking difficulties.

The currency in Uzbekistan is the Uzbekistani Som (UZS), and that is the only currency we recommend you use on the tour. We recommend that you exchange your currency before you leave the UK. Visa and Mastercard, debit and credit card are accepted in main tourist areas but are not always reliable and smaller areas and establishments only accept local currency in cash. ATM’s are also available in large cities and tourist areas. All foreign currencies can be exchanged in major banks, but the preferred currencies are US Dollars and Euros (new dated notes in best condition).

As normal practice you may be asked for your credit card details on check-in at the hotel in order to cover any extras incurred during your stay. If you do not have a credit card, you may be asked for a cash deposit. MasterCard and Visa are widely accepted in hotels as well as American Express.

You will need to take some extra money with you to cover any meals where these are not mentioned on your itinerary and personal purchases, such as souvenirs, drinks and snacks. Approximately (£400-500) per person should be sufficient for the duration of your tour.

Tipping It is at your customary to tip both your driver and guide. we would recommend approximately $5 per day for guide and $3 per day for each driver. Tipping of hotel staff and porters is estimated at $1-$2 per service and restaurants is 5-10% of the bill. Tips are accepted in the local currency, however it is asked that if you do not tip in the local currency that you only pay with notes, as coins cannot be exchanged.

The minimum number of travellers in your group will be 10, and the maximum will be 35. If in the unlikely event there are less than 10 people booked on your tour date, we will endeavour to reduce any disruption to your holiday and try to operate your tour with lower passenger numbers. If we are not able to operate your departure date then you may be asked to change to a different date and a full refund will be made available to you should this alternative not be suitable

This is an escorted tour, meaning you will have the services of an English speaking guide throughout your tour ensuring that you have first-hand knowledge at all times.

For Private Tours or groups 4 and lower, you will be accompanied by a Driver and Local Guides on excursions. These Local Guides will be available to you during all scheduled sightseeing.

Your accommodation is selected for convenience, location, comfort or character, and can range from business hotels to leisure hotels. Hotel accommodation is generally rated as local three to four-star standard, but please note there is no international classification system for hotels, and differences in facilities and quality do exist compared to what you might expect in the UK. All group tours hotels have private bathroom facilities and air-conditioning, where needed. Rest assured that all accommodation used by Mercury Holidays is regularly inspected by our staff and partners to ensure that standards meet your needs.

Breakfast is always western style and served in the hotel each morning. Lunch and Dinner (when included) will be taken in local restaurants or at the hotel. A variety of restaurants are visited giving you the chance to experience a range of dishes and flavours. Vegetarian, Vegan and Gluten-free options available, please request prior to departure. Please contact Customer Experience for questions about other dietary requirements or allergy information.

It is not recommended to drink the tap water, even in developed countries water may contain unfamiliar elements that can cause upset stomachs. In less developed countries water is not filtered in the same way. Bottled water will be available at shops and hotels.

Uzbekistan is a predominantly Muslim country and very conservative. It is expected for everyone to dress modestly. Woman – cover shoulders, midriff and legs to below the knees. Men – shorts are acceptable but working around shirtless is not. When visiting mosques, mausoleums, and other religious sites avoid revealing or tight fitting clothes, covering shoulders and knees and women may consider brining a scarf to cover your heads. Comfortable slip-on shoes are ideal for easy removal when entering religious buildings.

On arrival in Uzbekistan, you should clear customs and immigration and go out of the airport through the Arrivals Hall. Directly outside you will be met by the representative from our local agent, Dolores Travel Group (please note the rep. cannot enter the airport). This representative will be holding a sign displaying “Mercury Holidays” and will then escort you to your transfer vehicle. Your guide will be able to answer any queries you may have.

If you need to contact your representative during your stay, the details are: Dolores Travel Group 104A, Kichik Beshagach str. Tashkent, 100025, Uzbekistan Telephone Number: 00998 78 1208883 (office working hours 09:00-18:00)

Emergency contact information: Please find below the emergency contact details for Dolores Travel Group Ms. Anna: 0099899 858 88 94 E-mail: [email protected]

Great Silk Road Tour Agency Uzbekistan

We are always shoulder to shoulder with you, about company, we are always together.

Tour duration 10 days/9 nights Day 1. Beijing – Tashkent Flight Beijing to Tashkent by 19:30 Arrival in Tashkent International Airport named after Islam Karimov. Come out of the terminal and meet the staff holding a sign “GREAT SILK ROAD TOUR”. Transfer to the hotel and check-in. Dinner at a Restaurant or Cafe in Tashkent. Resting time in the evening. Overnight at the hotel.

Travel List

Tour to uzbekistan from china.tour program, tour duration 10 days/9 nights.

Day 1-2. Beijing – Tashkent

Day 3-4. Tashkent-Samarkand

Day 5-6. Samarkand-Bukhara

Day 7-8. Bukhara-Khiva

Day 9-10. Khiva-Tashkent

Samarkand region

Lifeless hills to the north of the modern city – the place where Samarkand appeared in the VIII century BC. The city existed on this territory until 1220, when it was conquered and destroyed by Genghis Khan. Now it is a State Archaeological Reserve, where international archaeological expeditions work. The ancient history museum of Samarkand is located on the territory of the settlement, in the halls of which exhibits of various periods of the city's life before the Mongol invasion are exhibited – ossuaries, metal and glass products, coins, ceramics and unique paintings of the VII century.

Soataliyev Alisher Adxamjonovich

Someone's name, short question and answer, one of the important tasks.

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Silk Road Textiles Tour: Uzbekistan and Kyrgyzstan • Fall 2025

Tour dates:.

September 9 - October 1, 2025

October 2, 2025

Tour Pricing:

24 Nights for $6,520

Our 24-night textiles and arts tour of Uzbekistan and Kyrgyzstan checks another fabulous adventure off your bucket list!

On this spectacular tour, we’ll be following the Silk Road, the ancient trade route that linked the Mediterranean to China. Age-old artistic exchanges and shared aesthetic traditions practically assured that nowadays the whole region would be home to large numbers of talented artisans. Uzbek textile artists create exquisite hand-embroidered suzanis and brilliant hand-dyed, handwoven ikat fabrics. Kyrgyz women have expanded traditional nomadic-style felt-making (yurts and rugs) to produce innovative craft items such as cozy slippers and scarves. In both countries, we will meet these welcoming people and see their weaving, dyeing and felting techniques first-hand.

In the historic areas of many cities such as Samarkand and Bukhara, blue and turquoise-domed mosques and madrasas compose important UNESCO World Heritage sites. Detailed tile mosaics with masterful calligraphic panels decorate these stunning ancient buildings inside and out. Bishkek, the Kyrgyz capital, has modern hotels, tree-lined streets and verdant parks. The restaurants of both countries are superb and would be at home anywhere, with the great variety of fresh and healthy foods.

TRIP HIGHLIGHTS

• Visit exquisite blue-tiled madrasas, mosaic-covered mosques, and fascinating museums
• Shop in the bustling markets and handicraft bazaars of Bishkek and Tashkent
• Meet silk ikat dyers and weavers, wood block printers, and embroidery and ceramic masters
• Meet Kyrgyz feltmakers and learn their methods of making shyrdak rugs
• Walk historical neighborhoods of ancient Samarkand and Bukhara to see UNESCO Heritage sites

What’s Included in The Trip?

An overview of your journey, historical tashkent.

The trip begins in the beautiful city of Tashkent, the Uzbek capital. You will be met at the airport and transported to our hotel for check-in. Depending on what time you arrive you’ll sleep or relax until time for breakfast, then go out with us to explore markets and mosques on this first day in Tashkent. The capital city is known for its many museums and its mix of modern and Soviet-era architecture. Big sycamores line the wide avenues and mosaic-decorated apartment blocks alternate with sleek new glass and steel edifices. The Soviet-era Metro stations are stunning and we will take a ride to see some of the artistic masterpieces underground.

In Tashkent’s old city, we’ll admire historical buildings with iconic turquoise-tiled domes, such as the 16 th Barak-Khan Madrasa complex. It is famous for the intricate mosaic tile work on the buildings. We’ll also visit the home studio of a famous embroiderer. She will show us her working methods with hand-dyed silk threads, and we’ll also have a chance to see and purchase her beautiful suzanis and jackets (right).

We’ll visit the Museum of Applied Arts which showcases some of the best historical examples of the arts of Uzbekistan. The Russian diplomat Alexander Polovtsev commissioned the intricately decorated mansion expressly to display his vintage folk art collections such as ceramics, folk instruments, rugs and suzanis.

His rare and extensive collections are on display in the wondrous house with its colorfully hand-painted ceilings..

All aboard for Samarkand!

From Tashkent we board the air-conditioned and comfortable fast train to Samarkand. Seasoned travelers consider Samarkand as one of the most beautiful cities in the world, not only for the stunning historical monuments but also for the tree-shaded avenues and lovely green city parks. It was an important trade stop along the Silk Road and was at the forefront of early Islamic architecture. 

We’ll visit the mausoleums of Shah-i-Zinda, where Tamerlane built elaborate tiled mosaic tombs for his favorite wives, his wet-nurse and his sisters. We can visit a silk carpet factory, the Afrosiab museum and the fascinating Observatory of visionary astronomer, Ulughbek. We’ll see the towering tomb of Emir Timur (Tamerlane), founder of the Timurid Empire. Prominent landmarks include the iconic Registan, a plaza bordered by three ornate, majolica-covered madrasas dating to the 15th and 17th centuries.

The Registan Square is very close to our hotel and it’s fun to stroll over at night when it is lit with floodlights and looking magical. Modern Samarkand is a unique city: it combines the spirit of modernity with old historical grace. The western part of the city is more modern, with architecture reflecting 19 th and 20 th c. European design and style, influenced by the Russian aesthetic – as well as 21st c. towering modern glass and steel buildings.

Next Stop Bukhara!

Next we’ll visit the ancient city of Bukhara, a UNESCO World Heritage site that is more than 2,000 years old. It was a prominent stop on the Silk Road trade route between the East and the West, and a major medieval center for Islamic theology and culture. It still contains hundreds of well-preserved mosques, madrasas, bazaars and caravanserais, dating largely from the 9th to the 17th centuries. Monuments of particular interest include the famous tomb of Ismail Samani. It’s a masterpiece of 9th -10th-century Muslim architecture partly because of the variety of patterns executed in unglazed fired brick. Blue mosques and textile bazaars also abound in this fabulous historical city. Bukhara is one of the best places to explore the architecture and textiles of Uzbekistan.

The city has amazing mosques, galleries and museums. The age-old caravansarai and madrasas have often been converted into artists’ studios and workshops. And several ancient, domed bazaars here offer carpets, suzanis (left), and jewelry. We’ll explore these as well as an artisan center where we can learn how typical crafts are made. We know many artisans and collectors that we can visit, so you will have a first-hand chance to see some exquisite textile masterpieces.

While in Bukhara, we’ll see the Emir’s summer palace, Sitorai Mohi Hosa. Built in 1911, the palace now houses the excellent Bukhara Museum of Decorative Arts where the superb suzani collection will enthrall embroidery lovers. The main building with its tall ceramic fireplaces houses treasures such as royal furniture of the 19th – 20th centuries, palace artifacts from Russia, crystal chandeliers, stained glass windows and intricate plaster or wood carvings.

Fergana Valley of Ikat

Next we’ll head for the Fergana Valley and after 4 hours, we’ll stop in Kokand, to visit the incredible Khudayarkhan Palace and the Juma mosque. 

Along the route, we’ll stop several times, for lunch and to visit the bakers slapping dough rounds or juicy samosas onto the walls of fiery domed ovens. Then we continue to Margilan, an ancient Fergana Valley city, and home of glowing resist-warp dyed (ikat) fabrics, the most renowned of Uzbek textiles. Margilan town was well-known in antiquity for the superb quality of silk created here. We’ll meet ikat dyers and weavers who are the most skilled in Central Asia. Over the course of our days there, we’ll visit ikat masters to see thread binders, weavers, and dyers. Stunning ceramic plates and bowls will be available at the master ceramicist’s studio we’ll visit. All the pieces are intricately hand-painted.

 A highlight will be the Kumtepa Bazaar, one of the best places to buy inexpensive ikat fabrics (with resist-dyed warp) which are the most renowned textiles of Uzbekistan. It’s a great local market with an area devoted to handwoven fabrics and traditional ikat wedding outfits. Here you can buy ikat yardage to make robes, quilts or pillows, and other textile treasures, left.

Later we’ll visit an ikat dyeing workshop and will see how the warp threads are bound to make the bold patterns. We’ll visit the Yodgorlik Margilan silk factory where we can see the entire process from reeling the silk cocoons to weaving the finished ikat. The shop here has appealing yardage and also examples of ikat jackets and coats at reasonable prices.

On to Khiva!

Onward from Bukhara to Khiva! This is a long drive, but the desert landscape is compelling: vast steppes, shepherds and their flocks, remote villages, military outposts and unusual vegetation. We’ll skirt the Kyzylkum or Red Sand Desert, to see Khiva’s wondrous architecture and carpet knotters. We’ll cross the Amu Darya River, long ago known as the Oxus. Ichan Kala is the UNESCO site walled, ancient, inner city of Khiva, considered to be the largest surviving walled city in central Asia. An important stop on the ancient Silk Road, the inner city was protected by 10-meter high brick walls. It was the last resting place of camel caravans before crossing the desert to Iran. Although few very old monuments remain, it is a coherent and well-preserved example of the Muslim architecture of Central Asia. Tiled and mosaic-encrusted treasures of Khiva’s old town include stunning palaces, mosques, and minarets.

Embroidered textiles and fluffy sheepskin wool caps abound in Khiva. We’ll visit several grand architectural wonders and have dinner on a rooftop with 360-degree views of nighttime illuminated Khiva. There is a wonderful carpet shop in Khiva that was started by Chris Alexander, who wrote “Carpet Ride to Khiva.” Several women are at work on beautiful woolen carpets. Hand-knotted examples here show unusual patterns that were inspired by the designs of the tiles and carved wooden doors of the city.

Over the border into Kyrgyzstan

After our time in Uzbekistan, we’ll head over the border into beautiful Kyrgyzstan. Visiting this mountainous and mostly rural country makes a wonderful change of pace after the modern cities and fascinating historical sites of Uzbekistan. Though long inhabited by a succession of independent tribes, Kyrgyzstan attained sovereignty as a nation-state only after the breakup of the Soviet Union in 1991. Ethnic Kyrgyz make up the majority of the country’s six million people, followed by significant minorities of Uzbeks and Russians.

The few travelers that make it here love the warm-hearted people, peaceful countryside and stunning mountain views. Some nomads still prefer to live in a felt yurt in the beautiful forests or lake country. Yet the capital, Bishkek, is up-to-date with good restaurants and hotels, pretty parks, and a population of one million.

The Beauty of Felt!

We will have a local Kyrgyz specialist guide who will explain Kyrgyz history and culture. Starting in the capital of Bishkek, we’ll visit verdant and peaceful Oak Park and see the ethnographic displays at the nearby National Museum. The bustling Osh Bazaar warrants a visit in case you want a pointy felt cap with earflaps, or a new backpack to haul home your pretty felt rug!

We’ll have several opportunities to learn about the renowned Kyrgyz felt-making, in NGO-supported workshops around the country. Best known for making traditional articles such as yurt covers and felted rugs, Kyrgyz artists have innovated and they now also create charming felt toys and clothing such as warm slippers. We will have a workshop to make a small needle-felted animal like those at left.

We’ll meet a talented Kyrgyz felt artist, learn about her contemporary techniques and see her latest work. We’ll also visit several women’s coops where the felting methods are different. And in Bishkek, we’ll try our hand at making a silk and wool scarf. You can choose the colors of wool and make shapes to decorate the silk backing, then roll it to perfection. We’ll witness all the different felting techniques as we visit various artisans.

Shyrdak and Ala-kiyiz Carpets

Later we’ll drive to Kochkor village, 260 kms from Bishkek. Kochkor is a famous province for sheep farmers and woolen felt makers. We’ll visit the Altyn Kol Women’s Handicraft Co-operative to see their work. And at the Felt Master’s studio, we will learn how nomadic Kyrgyz women make felt rugs called Shyrdak – a floor covering made by cutting positive and negative shapes out of prepared felt, in various brightly dyed colors. Then the positive shapes are inserted into the negative spaces of the background and stitched with a decorative edging, right.

We will see a demonstration of another process of felt carpet making called Ala-kiyiz . This method of layering colored felt shapes on a background, then wetting it, rolling it up and stomping on the roll to bind the wool fibers, is different from the modern felt carpets with the cutout shapes that we have seen before. 

Tian-Shan Mountains

One day we’ll drive along another part of the Great Silk Road to the Tash-Rabat Caravanserai. This trip passes through the spectacular mountains and valleys of the Tian-Shan mountains where we will enjoy stunning views of the At-Bashy ranges.

The well-preserved 15th century stone fortress of Tash Rabat stands 100 km before the Kyrgyz-Chinese border at Torugart, at 3500 meters altitude. It has a central hall and 30-odd small rooms. At nighttime, traveling Silk Road merchants and their camels took shelter in caravanserai from bandits and the cold.

The Tash-Rabat region is spectacular. High mountains are dotted with Golden Marmots observing the scene from in front of their burrows. Shaggy near-wild horses and dark brown/white yak roam the picturesque hills.

Depending on how cold it is next to the Lake, we’ll enjoy a group dinner in a communal Yurt, and perhaps a night in the Yurt Camp at the high altitude of 3000 m. near the enormous IssyKul Lake, depending on the weather. If it is too cold in September for yurt camping, we’ll stay in a special homestay.

On to Karakol

Next morning, we’ll continue to Kyzyl-Tuu village where a Kyrgyz master yurt maker will show us how to assemble a felt-sided traditional yurt, without metal or nails. Here we will also learn about Kyrgyz national traditions such as beshik (baby cradle ceremony) with a demonstration using a cheerful local babe!

A traditional eagle hunter will demonstrate his Golden Eagle’s skill by letting the eagle loose to chase and snag a goatskin with a chunk of meat attached (no animals harmed in the demo). We’ll learn about the tradition of hunting with eagles. The Master will explain how the eagles are trained to hunt and how they helped save the nomadic population from starvation over harsh winters. The close bond between the eagle and her Master is fascinating.

We’ll continue to Karakol. Karakol town, one the first Russian military outposts, was founded in 1869. Here we can walk around to see the wooden Russian Orthodox church called the Holy Trinity Cathedral, still used for services. There is also a most unusual pagoda-styled Chinese mosque with complex cut woodwork decorations under the eaves.

Winding it up with Music…

And on our last night in the rural countryside, we’ll have a superb dinner at a Uighur family home, with an interesting Kyrgyz musicians’ folk concert. The talented and welcoming musicians will explain their unique handmade instruments too. 

Then next day, on our way back to Bishkek we’ll stop to see the enormous field of boulders with ancient rock engravings at Cholpon-Ata’s open-air museum. With a splendid background made of high snowy mountains, this collection of petroglyphs dates back more than 4,000 years.

This open-air museum is a very important historical site, located on a territory of 42 ha (104 acres) with hundreds of petroglyphs (images carved or ‘pecked’ onto stones).

We’ll also see the Burana Tower, a truncated minaret, from the 11 th century with another open-air collection of interesting stones, in this case, carved like human-shaped tombstones.

At the end of our adventure, after seeing gorgeous suzanis, stunning ikat yardage and beautiful felt scarves, we’ll return to Bishkek. The rest of this day is free to explore on your own or just relax and pack up your treasures. Our Farewell Dinner is tonight!

We’ll spend the last night back in Bishkek and then fly home from Bishkek the next morning.

Some of our Hotels…

Hotel Inspira-S, Tashkent

A new hotel with a large indoor pool, gym and spa, conveniently located near the exciting Chorsu Bazaar. There’s a beautiful hamam for a relaxing scrub. Rooms are comfortable with smooth linens, excellent beds, and contemporary bathrooms. The breakfast buffet is excellent.

Green Yard Hotel, Karakol

Large and light-filled modern hotel surrounded by pleasant gardens and fruit trees. It has comfortable rooms and a spacious dining room. Breakfasts are delicious and huge, with many choices. The owner and staff are all helpful and very welcoming.

Additional Details & Experiences

Bread In Uzbekistan

Bread is considered sacred by Uzbek people. The traditional round and flat bread, called non or lepeshka, is slapped on the fiery hot walls of a tandoor (round clay oven) to bake. Then it comes out toasted and crispy. Loaves are decorated with spiked bread stamps in different patterns. Bread of each region has its own particular method of leavening, its own baking techniques and its own inimitable taste. For instance, delicious flaky bread – katlama non – typifies the Fergana Valley version. Some yummy breads called lepeshkas are prepared with onion or meat baked inside the dough.

What are the traditional foods of Uzbekistan?

We’ll eat delicious food everywhere and learn about the local cuisine in at least one cooking class. Popular foods include vegetable, chicken or beef skewers, fresh salads and dishes such as pilaf or plov, with beef or lamb. Meat-filled pastries called samosas are common too. Vegetarians will have no trouble at all; many salads such as grated carrots or beets with walnuts, or tomato, arugula, burrata and cucumber are popular and found in many restaurants. Vegetarian soups like cold cucumber and yogurt are popular too,

The Ismail Samani Mausoleum

The Samanid Mausoleum is an architectural wonder, a perfect cube of tan bricks, with decorative basket-weave brickwork patterns inside and out. It’s located in the northwestern part of Bukhara, just outside its historic center. It was built in the 9 th -10 th centuries AD as the resting place of the powerful and influential Islamic Samanid dynasty. The mausoleum is extremely important from an art historical perspective as it is the earliest instance of an Islamic tomb to survive in Central Asia. It’s also a rare example of decorating a structure with unglazed bricks arranged in intricate patterns.

Photos from Previous Adventures in Uzbekistan and Kyrgyzstan

Your Trip Leaders

Mirza’s calm and easy-going personality is a large part of why trips with him are so delightful! He also explains just the right amount of the complicated history of his country and its related architecture. It would be easy to get overwhelmed by all the conquerors and territorial battles, but Mirza understands just how much info to impart. He also knows the textile and ceramic artisans that we visit, which makes those encounters much more interesting. Mirza is a native Uzbek, and he also speaks fluent Russian and English so communicates easily with everybody that we meet.

Cynthia began “Behind the Scenes Adventures” to share with others the traditional textiles and festivals of far-flung countries. Desiring some new locations and new types of textiles, she has branched out and found wonderful connections and new destinations for her tours. She still accompanies every tour and loves each country where we travel. Now the repertoire includes Uzbekistan and Kyrgyzstan, places where artisans weave stunning silk ikat designs and make colorful felted rugs.

Check Trip Availability

Trip signups are accepted on a first-come, first serve basis. Please provide your details below and we’ll be in touch to confirm whether spaces are still available for this trip. If you need to get in contact, please email: [email protected]

Registration Information

• Dates: September 9 – October 1, 2025
• Fly Home Date: October 2, 2025
• Deposit: $500
• Tour Cost: 24 Nights for $6,520
• Single Supplement: $750

For more information: Phone: 707-939-8874 E-mail: [email protected] Read: Frequently Asked Questions

Travel Plans

Fly into Istanbul on Turkish Airlines and connect with Turkish to Tashkent flight, arriving on September 9 at 7am. There is also a Turkish Airlines flight that arrives at 1am on September 9. Either flight is OK and you will be picked up at the TASHKENT airport (TAS) whenever you arrive.

Most people fly into Istanbul from their home airport, then connect with Turkish Airlines for the flight to Tashkent (TAS), Uzbekistan. For Americans living in cities served by Turkish Air, it will be less expensive to take Turkish Airlines for the whole flight itinerary. Turkish flies non-stop to IST from US cities such as SFO, LAX, SEA, and others.

You will fly into Tashkent on September 9, then fly home from BISHKEK, KGZ at the end, on October 2. You will most likely be in the air on September 8, and t he hotel is reserved for your arrival that night/morning of the 9th so you don’t have to wait until check-in on the 9th to enter your room.

If you are over 55 years old , a visa for Uzbekistan is no longer necessary, as of May 1, 2022. If you are under 55 you will need to apply through the government’s website; we’ll send the link if this is your case.

Right now, Kyrgyzstan doesn’t require any visa for foreign travelers from the USA, Canada, Australia, UK, Turkey and most of Europe. The list includes many more visa-free countries, and citizens of other countries can apply for an e-visa online. We will send you the latest visa info and will let you know if the above policy changes.

What’s Included

• 24 nights of accommodation in double rooms with private bathrooms, possible one-night shared yurts, and possible one-night homestay in Kyrgyzstan. Single rooms available with supplement.
• Expert Uzbek English-speaking professional guide
• Expert Kyrgyz English-speaking professional guide
• Textile expert Cynthia Samaké to accompany tour.
• All breakfasts in the hotels included
• All lunches and dinners included, except 2 meals which will be on your own
• Transportation by air-conditioned Minibus
• Entrance fees to all sites and monuments
• 2 Flights: from Urgench (Khiva) to Tashkent and flight from Osh to Bishkek.
• All Tashkent and Bishkek airport transfers
• Train travel between Tashkent and Samarkand, Samarkand and Bukhara – and all train station transfers. 
• Private mini-bus to Khiva with our professional driver
• Bottled water on all van rides and in most hotel rooms; you can buy more if needed.
• Silk and felt scarf workshop; Felt-making demonstration.
• Ikat warp tying, dyeing and weaving demonstrations.
• Wood Block printing demonstration.

What’s Not Included

• International flights
• Visa and passport fees
• 2 Dinners (buy fruit and cheese picnic to eat at the hotel, or go out on your own)
• Tips for guide and driver; amounts will be suggested
• Recommended travel/trip cancellation insurance (suggestions about this later)

Frequently Asked Questions

General questions, what information will i receive after registering.

Once you sign up for a trip, we will e-mail a general itinerary, lists of Suggested Reading, what to take, cultural considerations, weather charts, etc.

How can I get a detailed itinerary for a tour?

A day-to-day itinerary will be sent once you sign up for a trip. If you need specific information about the flow of the trip and the pace of the specific activities, before committing to the trip, get in touch with your questions and we will be happy to fill you in.

What sort of clothing should I bring?

When you sign up for a tour, you’ll receive detailed lists of what to bring to your destination, as well as weather info, to more easily coordinate your wardrobe with the heat or cold.

Your travel clothing will depend on the weather during your stay, in either May or October. We’ll send a list of weather/temperatures to help you decide on comfort levels, but modest clothing is important at all times. In Kyrgyzstan, we’ll be visiting rural, casual destinations and you will need sturdy shoes for walking around the archeological sites. Bring a walking stick if it might help you walk over rough mountain terrain; we will not be trekking but strolling… over the field of boulders with the petroglyphs, for instance.

Are laundry services available?

Most hotels have a laundry service and prefer that you don’t wash clothes in the bathroom sinks. If there is no laundry service, and you don’t want to wash your jeans and wait a day or two for them to dry, asking at the hotel desk is a good place to start.

Please note that it is considered demeaning to wash someone else’s underpants, so we ask that you wash your own underpants. Hang them to dry discreetly in the bathroom.

What is the COVID situation?

Both countries have done well with their vaccination campaigns and the situation continues to improve. Masks are worn voluntarily in some close indoor venues such as museums. We will wash hands before eating, and use hand sanitizer and have it available in the van; please bring your own also. However COVID is still present everywhere in the world and we recommend bringing several COVID self-tests. Then if you start to feel cold- or flu-like symptoms, you can test yourself and if positive, you will need to wear a mask in the van, and during some daily activities until you test negative. If you like, we can make provisions for you to rest at the hotel and to have food/juice/water delivered to you.

Entry into Uzbekistan now require only your passport and a visa (if you are younger than 55 years old) to get through Customs and Immigration – and no vaccination proof. Behind the Scenes does require that you have had at least two vaccinations to join the trip; there are now several iterations of booster; we recommend getting whatever you qualify for!

We recommend bringing a paper copy of your vaccination card, in with your passport, just in case they change the rules….Don’t count on having important docs like these downloaded only onto your phone. Kyrgyzstan requires no visa nor proof of vaccinations at this point.

What are the COVID requirements for returning to the US?

There are no longer any COVID 19 health restrictions related to returning to the USA as a US citizen.

Do I need any vaccinations or immunizations?

This varies with each country. Make an appointment with your travel doctor and take your tour itinerary with you. Some areas of certain countries require malaria pills and others do not; same with Yellow Fever and others such as Cholera and Typhoid. He or she will have all the latest requirements at hand.

A rural visit to a farm may require extra precautions, for example. We will send you the links to the CDC.gov information pages for your specific destination so that you can ask questions.

You should be current on all your typical childhood and international travel shots such as Polio and Tetanus. Some countries now demand proof of vaccination against COVID. Behind the Scenes Adventures requires you to have had two COVID vaccinations. We recommend you have a booster as well.

How much physical activity is involved during the trip?

Each trip has different activity levels that will be fully explained in the specific tour material. But no activities or events are mandatory , and you are always welcome to sit at the bottom of the stairs to a temple or wait in the van while others ascend or visit a particular place. Walking sticks are fine to bring if they help you. We cannot accept wheelchairs or walkers.

For most tours, you’ll need to be able to walk the distance of 4-5 city blocks on your own, with sturdy shoes.  Please note that sidewalks in many countries are full of big holes and broken cement chunks, with bits of re-bar sticking out, and you must constantly be alert to these dangers. In urban areas where distances are greater, the group will take taxis and/or get help from local assistants. If you need a personal taxi or additional special aid, that will be at your expense.

What will the weather be like?

Our Uzbekistan trips are planned for temperate weather with little or no rain, in April-May and September-October. Summer temperatures are far too hot! Average daytime temperatures are usually in the 70s and nights can be cooler, in the 50s. With global warming, it is much harder to predict but we will send Weather Charts with your pre-departure info.

Meals & Accommodations

What sort of hotels will we be staying in.

Hotels that we choose in Uzbekistan are usually in traditional style with carved wood decor, typically new and up-to-date. Our hotel in Tashkent is semi-ttraditional, with comfortable, well-lit rooms, good beds and linens. It has modern bathrooms, a good restaurant at lobby level, and an elevator. The hotel in Samarkand is more modest. The new, private, homestay in Margilan belongs to the family of the most famous ikat weavers; it’s a treat to stay there, surrounded by textiles! Before we depart, we will send you a list of all hotels with contact information in case someone at home needs to contact you.

What kind of money will we be using?

Purchases are made either in local money, Uzbek SOM for example, or in US dollars. US dollars are stable and the most widely accepted foreign currency, and they are what you should bring. Euros are also accepted. Canadian dollars are not often accepted so you are safer with US dollars. Other currencies are either not accepted, or the rates are not correctly calculated. Bring US dollars in clean, new-ish, unmarked, unripped bills. $100 bills are fine, but you could bring about a dozen $20s also just in case you want to buy smaller items, in places that accept dollars. I will hand out currency exchange charts when we meet.Purchases are made either in local money, Uzbek SOM for example, or in US dollars. US dollars are stable and the most widely accepted foreign currency, and they are what you should bring. Euros are also accepted. Canadian dollars are not often accepted so you are safer with US dollars. Other currencies are either not accepted, or the rates are not correctly calculated. Bring US dollars in clean, new-ish, unmarked, unripped bills. $100 bills are fine, but you could bring about a dozen $20s also just in case you want to buy smaller items, in places that accept dollars. I will hand out currency exchange charts when we meet.

Do NOT count on using ATMs, although their service is much better nowadays . They exist but can be out of money, or the systems are down, etc.

Credit cards might be accepted for large purchases with a surcharge at more modern shops, but definitely will not be accepted for small items in markets, and small shops.

It’s easy! BRING plenty of CASH dollars, and just take home what you don’t spend. You will keep your US bills in your secret waist pouch or your wallet. You can lock extra money inside your suitcase in the hotel also; we know and trust the hotels where we stay.

How do I change money to buy textiles and other items if I need local money?

We will go as a group to a currency exchange place when we arrive in each country, to change our clean, new-ish, unmarked, unripped US dollar bills into SOM or other local currency. Some places that we shop will accept dollars or credit cards but since there is a high fee for them, merchants greatly prefer cash – dollars or local money.

How much money should I bring for the trip?

Since your trip fee includes all the necessities, you will need spending money only for alcoholic drinks, guide and driver tips, and textiles and souvenirs that you decide to buy.

There are many exciting and beautiful textiles, yardage, and fashionable clothes to take home with you! Bring as much cash as you can afford to spend, or that you’ve budgeted for, and plan on using a credit card for any large unplanned purchases like rugs or vintage suzanis. You can always return to the US with any extra, un-spent dollars.

What sort of food will we be eating?

Uzbek food is fresh and delicious. There is an excellent variety of salads without lettuce, including grated carrots, beets, and other fresh choices. Chicken or beef kebabs are popular and delicious. There are some good hot and cold soups, such as a cold yogurt and cucumber version, so refreshing in warmer months. Lagman is a delicious thick noodle soup with bits of beef.

Other popular dishes are samosas, meat or vegetable-filled pies baked in a round tandoor oven, and the Uzbek national dish called Plov. Typical blue-collar lunch plov mixtures served from huge cauldrons are greasy but other healthier and delicious plov versions include lots of yellow and orange carrots, garbanzos, and raisins. Uzbekistan is famous for fresh-baked bread and bakeries. Every meal starts with fresh bread, sometimes with grilled onions incorporated (my favorite!).

Will I be able to accommodate my dietary needs?

If you have any special dietary, health, or nutrition issues, restrictions, etc, there is no guarantee that Behind the Scenes Adventures will be able to accommodate your special diets in foreign countries. Please contact us before departure, and bring sufficient alternative foods. Travelers with severe peanut allergies cannot be accepted. Vegan diets are possible but with much less variety than at home. Vegetarian diets are often fairly easy to accommodate, but also with less variety than what is available at home.

Flights & Travel

Will i need a visa for connecting countries.

It is very rare to need a visa for a connection if you stay in the Transit area. This will be regulated by the connecting country and the airline will send information as to this requirement.

Will I be met at the airport?

Yes! Cynthia, an assistant or a driver will meet you with a sign with your name and/or Behind the Scenes Adventures. They will have your flight schedule and know you will need time to pick up your luggage. Wait for them in the terminal, right outside the Arrivals area, and don’t go with any other drivers that don’t have your name on a placard.

What are the requirements for my passport to be valid?

Your passport needs to have one blank page for your visa, although, with an E-Visa, you will have just a piece of paper to show, and don’t need room for anything except Immigration stamps in your passport.

What is the best airline to fly to the country?

You will need to get to Istanbul, Turkey, then connect to Tashkent. There are non-stop flights to Istanbul’s fabulous new airport from SFO and LAX, and perhaps other major cities. Try to get a non-stop flight; it’s much easier not to have to change planes. Some flights connect in Istanbul for an hour or two, then continue directly to Tashkent – easy! I found good deals on Expedia.com with Turkish Airlines which is very good; they are a partner of United. Turkish and United are the airlines I always use but from your home airport, there may be other deals with other airlines such as Delta and Air France, etc.

What will we use for transportation?

We use a Mercedes Sprinter for most interior transportation. It is high-topped and spacious, and our luggage is stored in the back, or on top if we amass extra bags along the way. (This is another reason we must start with a luggage limit.)

With a small group, we may use a Chevrolet SUV (made in Uzbekistan!) for the whole trip. Vans and buses are not allowed on the route from Tashkent to Ferghana Valley, so we will go in Chevy SUVs. And we will take the modern high-speed train, from Tashkent to Samarkand and on to Bukhara.

We may also fly on one interior/domestic flight from Urgench (Khiva) back to Tashkent, on Turkish Airlines or Uzbek Airways. If not we will use the van on this route also.

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Silk Road Tour to 5 Stans and the Caucasus

The highlights of the tour.

Introduction

Our Silk Road Tour is created for those who prefer more than just a classical tour, it’s a unique opportunity to explore the hidden secrets of Central Asia and the Caucasus. This 31-day-trip offers a journey to Kazakhstan, Turkmenistan, Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, Azerbaijan, Georgia and Armenia. You will have a great trip along the Great Silk Road to distinctive architectural gems, stroll around Asian bazaars, UNESCO Sites, taste Armenian and Georgian famous wine and try delicious traditional food. It’s just amazing how close, but yet how different they are from one another with its traditions and culture. Do not miss the opportunity and Arara will make your trip unforgettable.

Day 1 - Arrival - Almaty City Tour

Day 2 - almaty - medeo - big almaty lake - almaty, day 3 - almaty - bishkek.

Day 4 - Bishkek - Issyk Kul

Day 5 - issyk kul - cholpon ata - grigorevka gorge - bishkek, day 6 - bishkek - tashkent, day 7 - tashkent city tour, day 8 - tashkent - samarkand, day 9 - samarkand - panjakent, day 10 - panjakent - seven lakes - samarkand, day 11 - samarkand - bukhara, day 12 - bukhara city tour, day 13 - bukhara - farab - turkmenabat - mary, day 14 - mary - ashgabat, day 15 - ashgabat city tour, day 16 - ashgabat - darvaza crater, day 17 - darvaza - koneurgench - khiva, day 18 - khiva - tashkent, day 19 - free day in tashkent, day 20 - arrival in baku - baku city tour, day 21 - gobustan - baku, day 22 - baku - shamakhi - sheki, day 23 - sheki - lagodekhi border - tbilisi, day 24 - tbilisi city tour - mtskheta, day 25 - ananuri - kazbegi - gudauri - gergeti - tbilisi, day 26 - kakheti - telavi - batonis tsikhe - tsindandali - tbilisi, day 27 - sadakhlo border - goshavank - haghartsin - sevan - yerevan, day 28 - yerevan city tour - echmiadzin - yerevan, day 29 - khor virap - noravank - yerevan, day 30 - garni - geghard - yerevan, day 31 - departure, inclusions/exclusions, the tour price includes.

• All airport and land border transfers
• Accommodation in 3* European class hotels (twin/dbl shared)
• Meals: breakfast at the hotels, lunches and dinners as per program
• Services for private A/C car with driver as per program (vaccinated drivers)
• Escort English – speaking guide for all days (vaccinated guides)
• Train tickets: Tashkent-Samarkand
• Domestic air tickets: Khiva-Tashkent, Mary-Ashgabat, Bishkek-Tashkent
• Entrance fees to the sites listed
• Show program in Bukhara and show with hawks in Kazakhstan
• Mineral water 0.5 L per day/per person
• Visa support LOI (only to Uzbekistan and Turkmenistan)
• 4-wheel drive vehicle for Gergeti Trinity Church
• Wine tasting in Sighnaghi
• 24-hour office support

The tour price doesn't include

• International flight tickets
• Tips and gratuities
• Visa consular fees
• Video and photo charges
• Personal expenses
• Travel insurance
• Services not included in the itinerary
• 3* Single supplement 656 EUR

GUARANTEED TOUR DATES

May 18, 2020, may 8, 2024, jun 7, 2024, may 22, 2024, jun 21, 2024, jun 16, 2024, jul 16, 2024, jul 31, 2024, aug 30, 2024, aug 14, 2024, sep 13, 2024, aug 28, 2024, sep 27, 2024, sep 4, 2024, oct 4, 2024, sep 11, 2024, oct 11, 2024, apr 23, 2025, may 23, 2025, trip reviews (13), julianna henderson.

Hi, Arara, me and my friends would like to express our sincere gratitude for one of the best trips of our lives. We are really glad that we chose you to organize this trip. For me, this was one of the longest, but at the same time the most colorful journeys I've ever had. I took a lot of photos full of unforgettable memories, learned a lot about the history of the Silk Road and each country in particular. And what a pleasure and fun it was taking part in master-classes! The wine tunnel in Georgia impressed me so much that I couldn’t resist buying several bottles of wine, and in Armenia I couldn’t pass by all these colorful dried fruits. The nature in Kazakhstan was breathtaking, Darvaza gas crater was the highlight in Turkmenistan. Samarkand was one one of the most beautiful cities we have ever visited. The guides were brilliant and friendly. And of course the fast and smooth communication with our tour manager Hayku was beyond praise. Thank you!

I had doubts for a long time because of the impressive length of this package, but in the end, every second of this trip was fully justified. To plan such a long, intense tour while maintaining adequate pace and balance seemed like something fantastic, but Arara Tours coped with this task at a truly high level. Of course, there were some inconveniences during the trip, as we had domestic flights to move from one Stan to the other, but it was well handled. The hotels in the Caucasus were at better level than the hotels in the Stans, but not too big difference. The guides were good at English and had a deep knowledge of their countries. We enjoyed almost all the guides’ service, but were particularly happy with our guides in Kazakhstan, Georgia and Armenia. After the trip we still keep in touch in a hope that we will be back to your amazing regions in future. Thank you for an unforgettable trip!

Stella Flynn

Hi Sati, We are home safely. Thanks for arranging the trip for us. The tour in Turkmenistan was wonderful, your tourist guides and drivers were great. We are happy except for the meals in Khiva. We were restricted to a total amount of less than $30usd for all 3 peoples. They removed a dish from our order, or we had to pay out of our pocket. We did not have any problem with other towns. Otherwise, everything was good. Both Camy and I have been telling people how good and responsible you are. Thanks again.

WHY BOOK WITH ARARA

We choose only the best hotels located in the city center close to the main sights.

We work only with professional guides and guides who have experience in tourism for more than 8 years. All our guides are fully vaccinated against Covid-19.

With Arara you book at first hand from a qualified local Armenian agency. Avoid surcharges applied by intermediaries and save money!

We provide our tourists with comfortable air-conditioned transport. All our drivers are fully vaccinated against Covid-19.

We host over 3,000+ tourists per year. Our clients are mostly from the USA, UK, Australia and Canada. Average age of our travelers is from 45 to 80. Our groups consist of travelers from all genders. There are solo travelers in most of our groups.

With agencies operating in Georgia and Uzbekistan we are able to provide clients with the best price and quality services.

TRIP ACCOMMODATION

Kazakhstan (almaty).

Discovery (Bishkek)

Karven Hotel (Issyk Kul)

Grand Art Hotel (Tashkent)

Arba (Samarkand)

Umariyon Hotel (Panjakent)

Rangrez (Bukhara)

Mizan Hotel (Ashgabat)

Qibla Tozabog Hotel (Khiva)

Auroom Hotel (Baku)

Old Town Sheki (Sheki)

Graphica Hotel (Tbilisi)

Ani Central Inn Hotel (Yerevan)

PACKING CHECKLIST

First aid kit:, essentials:, credit cards and cash:, spring / autumn:, essential information.

• Other Central Asia Tours
• Currency & local money
• Travel Safety in the Caucasus
• Prices in the Caucasus
• Seasons in the Caucasus
• Mobile Operators in Armenia
• Visa Information
• More Travel Articles
• Booking terms with Arara

SIMILAR TOURS

Exquisite caucasus - armenia, georgia, azerbaijan.

Azerbaijan, Georgia and Armenia in 17 days

Azerbaijan, Georgia and Armenia in 21 days

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The Perfect Uzbekistan 10-Day Itinerary

06/07/2024 by Guest Blogger Leave a Comment

This is a guest post by Jacqueline Kieu.

Uzbekistan is the perfect destination for travelers looking for a rich cultural and historic experience thanks to its central location along the historic Silk Road Route and handful of well-preserved UNESCO sites and cities.

I spent one month in here and have compiled the absolute must-see places to visit with 10 days in Uzbekistan. Here’s where to go and what to see with a 10-day itinerary in Uzbekistan:

Table of Contents

Tashkent: Two Days

Almost all travelers will begin in Tashkent, the capital city of Uzbekstan. 

As the largest city in Central Asia, this sprawling metropolis is home to over 3 million people. It’s a fascinating place; a city that straddles a fine line between the old and new world.

Visitors in Tashkent willl find 1970s Soviet era architecture, which offer a sense of nostalgia amidst the otherwise modern buildings. The city is surprisingly clean, with wide tree-lined sidewalks and tons of parks and green spaces for leisure.

Many travelers tend to blast through Tashkent in a day (or less) because they are only interested in the Silk Road sites. Don’t make this mistake. To know Tashkent is to understand modern Uzbek culture.

You should spend at least half a day getting completely and utterly lost in the Chorsu Bazaar, a sprawling maze of outdoor shopping, eating, and overall insanity.

I recommend going in the morning and visiting the food market section, then grabbing some fresh non bread from Chorsu bakery while learning the unique way they bake it. Here’s a hint: it involves them sticking their whole body inside a burning oven.

Then, get lost again by attempting to take the metro. The metro is actually very well laid out, but challenging to decipher unless you can read Cyrillic. Anyway, it really doesn’t matter where you go, just be sure to check out the metro stations themselves as they are literally the most unnecessarily beautiful ones I’ve ever seen. My personal favorite was the Alisher Navoi Station, but each has their own unique design.

At some point, take a detour to marvel at the Minoor Mosque, also known as the White Mosque. Then spend an afternoon walking the lengths of Navoi Avenue, stopping along the way to check out the many parks and memorials.

Where to eat in Tashkent

The best part of Tashkent is the food. As the capital, you have access to a huge variety of national dishes at non-tourist prices.

Some of the best places in Tashkent for local eats are at the Chorsu Bazaar streetfood stalls and the National Food Hall. Look out for local goodies like plov (fried rice), samsa (meat pastry), fried lagman (noodles), meat skewers, and, if you dare, narib (shredded horse and cheese salad). 

Samarkand: Three Days 

From Tashkent, kick off your tour of the historic Silk Road Route by heading to the crowning jewel of the Silk Road itself – Samarkand.

Historically, Samarkand is one of the most important trade and culture hubs on the SIlk Road. As the former seat of rulers and nobility, you’ll find some of the most grandeur of palaces and monuments in the country right here.

The most famous landmark in Uzbekistan is without a doubt the Registan in Samarkand. This UNESCO site is a huge complex of 3 very old, very famous madrasas, or celebrated schools of Islam. 

Each madrasa was built during a different period of history, but all came together to form what is now Registan square. You’ll find the most meticulously detailed tilework all throughout the Registan providing the most aesthetic of sights. My advice is to come around sunset and stay for the evening light show.

You should also plan to wake up for sunrise at least once to visit the Shah-i-Zinda mausoleum. This place gets crazy crowded after 8 am, so it’s best to start early. Plus, you have the most beautiful light reflecting off the tiles in the morning that make for stunning photography opportunities.

Another must visit is the mausoleum of Amir Timur, the founder of the Timur Empire and one of Uzbekstan’s most loved historical figures.

There are so many other landmarks to visit in and around Samarkand. Some I’d suggest are the Bibi-Khanyn Mosque, the Observatory or Ulugbek and the Silk Road Samarkand. The latter is like a small themed shopping mall where they showcase all the different regional cultures of Uzbekistan.

I’d also recommend a day trip to Shahrisabz, another UNESCO site famously known as the birthplace of Amur Timur. I booked a tour directly with the Samarkand Tourist Information Center . 

Where to eat in Samarkand

Art Cafe is the best place to try traditional dishes like plov and manti. For some awesome, freshly grilled meat skewers, head to Labi G’or.

Bukhara: Two Days 

As a city with over 2,000 years of history, Bukhara is one of the most well preserved Islamic cities left in the world. To wander around the city is nothing short of time traveling. 

You’ll pass by gorgeous madrasas tiles to the nines, impressive mosques that look ethereal when lit up at night, and tons of those iconic blue domed roofs.

The most prominent landmark in Bukhara is the Kalon Minaret and the entire Kalon complex. This is a major square in the city center where you’ll find beautifully tiled facades in every direction. During the afternoons it seems to be a gathering point for locals to hang out.

You can’t skip a visit to the Ark of Bukhara, the ancient outer walls of the city which now houses a museum. While here, be sure to head to the Bolo Hauz Mosque across the street as well. 

But the coolest mosque in Bukhara has to be Chor Minoor, found on the outskirts of town. This mosque is known for its characteristic 4 pillars that rise high above it’s roofs.

Once happy hour rolls around, head to the Divan-begi pond in the center of the old city, an incredibly romantic place for a glass of wine or dinner by the water. 

Nearby is Nodir Devonbegi, formerly a revered madrasa which is now used to host nightly cultural dance performances.

And if all else fails, you can’t go wrong in Bukhara by dropping everything to do some serious shopping. Bukhara is famous for it’s historic, covered shopping arcades that are still used today to house art galleries, souvenir shops, small cafes and more.

Where to Eat in Bukhara

Labi Hovuz is the best place to eat in Bukhara for both the vibes and the food. They have a huge menu of all the local specialties, plus the added bonus of dining right alongside the pond.

I’d recommend the manti, Uzbekistan’s version of a dumpling and Bukhara style fried lagman (with tomato sauce). 

Whenever the heat of the day becomes too much, head to Wishbone Cafe or Halva Cafe to relax and people watch. 

Khorezm Fortresses: One Day 

On your way to the last major stop on the Silk Road Route, you’ll pass through the Karakalpakstan Desert, the former site of ancient Khorezm civilization.

Khorezm is known as the Egypt of Central Asia and is home to some remarkable landmarks that are totally different from the glitzy, Silk Road cities. Instead of glittering blue domed mosques and tiled palaces, you’ll find sandy forts and ruins that have all but dissolved back into the desert.

Spend a day exploring the desert and hopping around the many Khorezm fortresses. The best way to see the area is by hiring a driver for the day, or if you have your own rental car you can do a self-guided tour.

I strongly advise getting a guide because some of the sites aren’t properly marked on Google Maps or even the road signs. Plus, you have really patchy signal in this area making it all too easy to get lost.

I went with Islambek Tours and can report an amazing experience.

Booking a tour usually means you’ll visit between 3 to 10 of the ancient forts, depending on the tour you book. Today, some of these forts are nothing more than a small mound while others are like giant sandcastles. Each fort will have its own backstory explained on a plaque you’ll find on arrival.

The coolest part is how few people visit this area, so you can really get your Indiana Jones on and explore ancient ruins with virtually no one around.

The best forts to visit are definitely Toprak Kala and Ayaz Kala, both of which are very well preserved and among the larger complexes. 

Ayaz Kala is also home to a yurt camp where you’ll find a semi-friendly population of free-roaming camels. If you’re up for it, you can stay overnight to get a feel for rural Uzbek life and a night of epic stargazing.

Khiva: Two Days

The last major stop on the Silk Road Route is Khiva. Some travelers skip it simply because it’s so much further from the other major cities, but that’s their loss because the journey is well worth it.

Khiva is a gem in the middle of an otherwise inhospitable desert. What was once a thriving, wealthy city thanks to booming trade, Khiva manages to hold onto it’s glorious past within it’s well preserved citadel walls.

Most of the sites in Khiva are found in the Itchan Kala fortress, a UNESCO site that can be deemed as an open air museum in it’s entirety.

Probably the most impressive site is the Kalta Minor Minaret, a strikingly vivid turquoise tower that stands at 57 meter tall. This feat of wonder may not be the tallest minaret in Khiva, but it’s certainly has a way of dominating the skyline with its size and color.

Next, you’ll want to visit the Juma Mosque for it’s ancient, traditionally carved wooden beams. This mosque does a great job of showcasing the local woodcarving craft, a longstanding practice amongst those in the region.

The Khuna Ark is where you’ll have the best views of the city from above and the most magical sunset of your life if you time your visit just right.

The Islam Kodja Minaret is another must-see site within Khiva, not that you could miss it if you tried. This is the tallest structure in Khiva itself, and can be seen throughout the fortress walls. The area underneath Islam Kodja is where you’ll find an outdoor bazaar of sorts selling all kinds souvenirs and local goods.

Overall, you can’t really go wrong with just wandering and getting lost while in Khiva. It felt like I could hardly wander more than 10 steps before stumbling upon another square or madrasa worth exploring.

Entry into Itchan Kala requires paid admission, even if your hotel is located there. The most common ticket for purchase is the 2 day pass which allows you free entry into almost all the museums, mosques and points of interest. You can buy the tickets at the West Gate on the day of arrival.

Where to eat in Khiva

The most popular restaurant in Khiva is definitely the Terrace Cafe & Restaurant. They serve up all the local specialties you must try like Tukhum Barak (egg dumplings) and Shuveet Osh (dill noodles), or my favorite, fried eggplant and beef.

It’s best to come at sunset, as they offer an incredible view of Khuna Ark lighting up for the evening at this time. I highly recommend making a reservation through your hotel the night before as it does tend to get booked out each night.

Other places to see in Uzbekistan

If you have more time in Uzbekistan, you have plenty of amazing places of the beaten path to explore. 

If you seek adventure, head to the Kyzylkum Desert for epic desert nights and hiking. While there you can visit Aydar Lake, a vast, Soviet manmade lake. This lake is one of the best areas for bird watching as it’s home to over 100 species of waterbirds.

If you travel to the very western corners of the country, you can check out the Aral Sea, a dried up lake bed where you can find several shipwrecks arrested in decay.

For more of Uzbek culture, opt to visit Boysun, especially during the Boyson Festival which takes place once every 2 years in spring. 

For a chance to truly immerse yourself in local life, head to the Fergana Valley close to the Kyrgystan border. This area is known for agriculture and local craft making. It sees very few tourists but the reward is superb hiking trails the chance to connect with friendly locals.

Uzbekistan Travel Information

Visa Requirements

Visitors from most countries will require a visa for Uzbekistan,  something that was notoriously difficult until recently. 

Luckily, most nationalities are now allowed to apply for an e-visa for Uzbekistan, using the website here . 

The fee is a flat rate of $20 USD, which will grant most tourists 30 days.

I wish I could say it was as easy as that, but many travelers (including me) have reported issues with the website, especially when it comes to uploading documents and processing the payment. 

It’s also impossible to get ahold of anyone by phone or email, so make sure to apply for your visa at least 2 months ahead of your trip just in case you run into some roadblocks.

Best Time to Visit Uzbekistan

Most of Uzbekistan is characterized by an arid, desert landscape. This means that summers are scorching hot, and winters can get frigid cold. 

The best time to visit Uzbekistan is probably in spring and fall when the weather is less extreme and much  more comfortable. 

If you choose to visit any time between March and May, you’ll be rewarded by great weather and the chance to attend one of Uzbekistan’s spring festivals. There’s the Navruz festival in March that is celebrated all over the country, or the Boysun Bahori Festival every 2 years in Boysun.

READ NEXT: 13 Things I Wish I Knew BEFORE Visiting Uzbekistan

Getting to Uzbekistan

Most travelers will get to Uzbekistan via air. Unless you are flying in from the Middle East or a nearby country, most flights will require a stopover somewhere. For travelers coming from North America, those flights tend to have a layover in Dubai , Abu Dhabi, or Kuwait .

If you plan to travel overland from Kazakhstan or Tajikistan, you’ll  just need to be sure you have your documents and visa secured beforehand.

Getting Around Uzbekistan

You have plenty of options for transportation in Uzbekistan. 

Renting a car makes sense if you are traveling as a group. Uzbekistan is huge so this gives you the freedom to go wherever you please. The roads are not the best, but also not the worst.

Another option is to fly. All of the cities in this itinerary either have an airport or are within an hour of one. Flying in Uzbekistan is fairly cheap by western standards. Stil, it does add up, so it may not really be feasible if you’re on a tight budget.

There are also buses, but almost everyone I spoke to did not recommend them. Lateness and lack of comfort were among some of the feedback I heard.

In my opinion, the best way to get around is by train. Uzbekistan is reasonably well connected by a great train system. A 4 – 6 hour ride can cost as little as $9 USD. There are also super new high speed trains, known as Afrosiyob, which offer very modern and comfortable amenities that can easily compete with the trains of Europe.

You can book your train tickets online though the Railway UZ website. Be sure to book a few days ahead as the seats do tend to fill up.

Within the city, you’ll want to download the Yandex Go app which is the primary rideshare app used in Uzbekistan. It works in all major cities and you can even link your credit card directly for convenience.

And that wraps up the perfect 10 day itinerary covering the best of what Uzbekistan has to offer. Happy travels!

About the author: Jacqueline is the author of Your Travel Flamingo , a website dedicated to digital nomad travel and, recently, Iceland travel. When she’s not on the road, she stays busy by exploring her homebase in Iceland.

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Korea announces 'K-Silk Road' regional strategy for Central Asia

Yoon set to visit Turkmenistan, Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan next week

Korea will create a summit with five Central Asian countries and hold its first meeting in Seoul next year, as part of its new diplomatic strategy for the region, dubbed “Korea-Central Asia K Silk Road.”

Toward that end, President Yoon Suk Yeol will make state visits next week to three Central Asian nations — Turkmenistan, Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan — to embolden Korea’s partnerships with the countries having abundant natural resources and economic growth potential.

During a press briefing, Friday, Seoul’s First Deputy Director of National Security Kim Tae-hyo said that Korea and five Central Asian countries, including Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan, will create the Korea-Central Asia Summit and hold its inaugural meeting here next year.

Kim said the summit will be the latest edition of the Yoon government’s efforts to expand its diplomatic frontline, following the Korea-Pacific Islands Summit last year and the Korea-Africa Summit earlier this month.

The summit is pursued as part of the "K-Silk Road initiative," which is aimed at creating a new platform for partnerships with Korea and Central Asian nations.

“The K-Silk Road initiative contains the blueprint for upgrading Korea’s partnerships with the Central Asian region a step higher,” Kim said. “Through the initiative, we seek to facilitate free, peaceful and prosperous Korea and Central Asia together.”

The initiative has four main partnership pillars: resources, official development assistance, cultural and people-to-people exchange and government and private-level networking.

Based on these pillars, Korea will focus on tailored cooperation with each of the five nations in respective areas.

For example, Korea will focus on energy and infrastructure cooperation with Kazakhstan, water resources and tourism partnerships with Kyrgyzstan and energy plant partnerships with Turkmenistan.

The initiative is in line with the increasing strategic importance of the region, which has rich reserves of natural gas and key minerals including uranium, lithium and tungsten. Due to this, the United States, European Union and Germany have each held five-plus-one summits since 2022, while Russia and China are also deepening their ties with the region.

“The region has a young and dynamic demographic structure and is full of growth potential,” a senior official at the presidential office said.

“Global powerhouses such as the U.S. and China are striving to enhance their ties with the region. However, there are concerns that these countries, in their position of receiving investment and support, sometimes feel pressured or, to put it bluntly, are subject to a new form of imperialism. Due to this, Korea’s approach is being welcomed by these countries. Their desire to partner with Korea spans from infrastructure, industrial development, climate and digital efforts, making this partnership meaningful.”

To materialize the initiative, Yoon will make state visits to Turkmenistan, Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan from June 10 to 15.

On June 10, Yoon will have a summit with Turkmenistan President Serdar Berdimuhamedow and will attend a business forum attended by the two countries’ companies on the next day.

He will stop by in Kazakhstan on June 11 for a summit with President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev on June 12. The leaders also plan to attend a business forum attended by the two countries’ companies.

Yoon will arrive in Uzbekistan on June 13 and will hold a summit with President Shavkat Mirziyoyev and attend a business forum on June 14. Yoon’s wife, Kim Keon Hee, will accompany him on the trip.

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"generation z" youth dialogue themed "bridging pipelines, hearts aligned: young vibes along the energy silk road" successfully held in beijing.

BEIJING , June 7, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- On June 6, CNPC's "Generation Z" Youth Dialogue, revolving on the theme of "Bridging Pipelines, Hearts Aligned: Young Vibes along the Energy Silk Road," was grandly held at the CNPC Science and Technology Exchange Center in Beijing Foreign employees from SINO-Pipeline International in Kazakhstan , Myanmar , Uzbekistan , Tajikistan , and Kyrgyzstan , together with Chinese employees, shared their stories of mutual learning, growth, and development during the construction and operation of energy cooperation projects under the Belt and Road Initiative. Chinese and foreign young employees also performed wonderful cultural programs.

This event, hosted by SINO-Pipeline International, aimed to promote exchanges and cooperation among the youth of countries along the Belt and Road, showcasing the development achievements of energy cooperation projects under the Belt and Road Initiative. The event was held in a hybrid format with a main venue in Beijing and multiple video sub-venues, and was live broadcast in Chinese, Russian, and Burmese. To ensure extensive participation by Chinese and foreign employees, sub-venues were set up in joint venture/wholly-owned companies in Kazakhstan , Myanmar , Uzbekistan , Tajikistan , and Kyrgyzstan , as well as Xinjiang Company, and Yunnan Branch.

Shen Zhong , Deputy Director of the Corporate Culture Department of CNPC delivered a speech. While promoting international cooperation, CNPC consistently strengthens people-to-people exchanges and cooperation, deepening exchanges and mutual learning between civilizations in the journey toward high-quality development. He expressed hope that young friends would leverage the stage of energy cooperation, continuously surpass themselves in cultural exchanges and insights sharing, and inject fresh blood into energy cooperation along the Belt and Road.

Zhong Fan , Executive Director of SINO-Pipeline International, pointed out that over the past decade, SINO-Pipeline International has continuously improved its integrated investment, construction, and operation based on win-win cooperation, focused on cultivating a team of international talents with a global vision, and actively promoted international people-to-people exchanges under the Belt and Road Initiative. He hoped that young friends would link their destinies to the progress of human civilization, "build a golden bridge together," and demonstrate personal value in advancing high-quality development along the Belt and Road.

The event consisted of two parts: youth dialogues and cultural performances. A total of 33 Chinese and foreign youth participated in the event. In the youth dialogue segment, six pairs of "one Chinese, one foreign" youth engaged in live dialogues in Chinese around the theme "Building a Golden Bridge Together: Energy Youth on the Silk Road." The speakers were all outstanding young employees recommended by their respective enterprises to share their exciting personal experiences.

The event commenced with a dance performance titled "Ode to the Silk Road" by employees of Xinjiang Company, setting the stage for the youth dialogues. Subsequently, young representatives from various countries took the stage to share their touching stories. Aigerim Akhmetova and Jiang Tao from Asia Gas Pipeline LLP exemplified dedication and perseverance in lighting up thousands of homes. Avezov Rasulbek and Wang Weijian from JV"Asia Trans Gas"LLC reminisced about the brotherhood forged while handling compressor failures in the freezing cold. Yi Meng and Zhang Yunliang from Trans-Tajik Gas Pipeline Company Limited spoke about overcoming workplace challenges and chasing dreams along the New Silk Road. Gulina Sailanbek and Lei Qimeng from Beineu-Shymkent Gas Pipeline LLP shared the tremendous changes in local residents' lives after the commissioning of the pipeline project. Ryskulov Mirrakhim and Lu Ming from Trans-Kyrgyz Gas Pipeline Company Limited recounted supporting Kyrgyz students in overcoming difficulties to complete their studies. Kyaw Thu Yan Aung and Cui Shanglin from South-East Asia Crude Oil/Gas Pipeline Company Limited showcased the economic and cultural integration and deep friendship in China - Myanmar energy cooperation.

Kazakh employees Aigerim Akhmetova and Gulina Sailanbek expressed in their narrations: "After the pipeline was commissioned, we witnessed firsthand how residents along the pipeline route transitioned from the traditional 'coal and wood era' to the brand new 'blue-gold era.' This is not just a green pipeline transporting clean energy but also a friendship pipeline conveying Chinese-Kazakh friendship."

Chinese and foreign young employees performed wonderful dances and songs, showcasing the cultural integration achievements of "Generation Z" youth. Yunnan Branch's original song Against the Current demonstrated the spirit of perseverance and teamwork. The company's band, Concentric Circles, adapted and performed Glorious Years, pushing the event atmosphere to a climax. Their performance fully reflected the vitality and passion of "Generation Z" youth along the Belt and Road, and brought the youth dialogue event to a successful conclusion.

SINO-Pipeline International, along with local partners, has jointly constructed and operated several transnational crude oil and natural gas pipelines, including the Trans-Asia Gas Pipeline, the Myanmar -China Oil and Gas Pipeline, and the Kazakhstan- China Crude Oil Pipeline, along the Belt and Road in Central Asia and Myanmar . Among the over 4,000 Chinese and foreign employees, young employees from both China and abroad are active on the front lines of pipeline project construction and operation. They have been jointly tackling risks and challenges, deepening mutual learning and cultural exchange, and ensuring the safe and stable operation of transnational pipelines.

View original content: https://www.prnewswire.com/apac/news-releases/generation-z-youth-dialogue-themed-bridging-pipelines-hearts-aligned-young-vibes-along-the-energy-silk-road-successfully-held-in-beijing-302167113.html

SOURCE SINO-Pipeline International

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President Yoon Suk Yeol and his wife Kim Keon Hee disembark from the presidential jet after landing at Warsaw Chopin Airport in Poland, July 12, 2023. Korea Times photo by Seo Jae-hoon

Korea will create a summit with five Central Asian countries and hold its first meeting in Seoul next year, as part of its new diplomatic strategy for the region, dubbed “Korea-Central Asia K Silk Road.”

Toward that end, President Yoon Suk Yeol will make state visits next week to three Central Asian nations — Turkmenistan, Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan — to embolden Korea’s partnerships with the countries having abundant natural resources and economic growth potential.

During a press briefing, Friday, Seoul’s First Deputy Director of National Security Kim Tae-hyo said that Korea and five Central Asian countries, including Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan, will create the Korea-Central Asia Summit and hold its inaugural meeting here next year.

Kim said the summit will be the latest edition of the Yoon government’s efforts to expand its diplomatic frontline, following the Korea-Pacific Islands Summit last year and the Korea-Africa Summit earlier this month.

The summit is pursued as part of the "K-Silk Road initiative," which is aimed at creating a new platform for partnerships with Korea and Central Asian nations.

“The K-Silk Road initiative contains the blueprint for upgrading Korea’s partnerships with the Central Asian region a step higher,” Kim said. “Through the initiative, we seek to facilitate free, peaceful and prosperous Korea and Central Asia together.”

The initiative has four main partnership pillars: resources, official development assistance, cultural and people-to-people exchange and government and private-level networking.

Based on these pillars, Korea will focus on tailored cooperation with each of the five nations in respective areas.

For example, Korea will focus on energy and infrastructure cooperation with Kazakhstan, water resources and tourism partnerships with Kyrgyzstan and energy plant partnerships with Turkmenistan.

The initiative is in line with the increasing strategic importance of the region, which has rich reserves of natural gas and key minerals including uranium, lithium and tungsten. Due to this, the United States, European Union and Germany have each held five-plus-one summits since 2022, while Russia and China are also deepening their ties with the region.

“The region has a young and dynamic demographic structure and is full of growth potential,” a senior official at the presidential office said.

“Global powerhouses such as the U.S. and China are striving to enhance their ties with the region. However, there are concerns that these countries, in their position of receiving investment and support, sometimes feel pressured or, to put it bluntly, are subject to a new form of imperialism. Due to this, Korea’s approach is being welcomed by these countries. Their desire to partner with Korea spans from infrastructure, industrial development, climate and digital efforts, making this partnership meaningful.”

First Deputy Director of National Security Kim Tae-hyo speaks on President Yoon Suk Yeol's state visits to Central Asian countries during a press briefing at the presidential office in Seoul, Friday. Yonhap

To materialize the initiative, Yoon will make state visits to Turkmenistan, Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan from June 10 to 15.

On June 10, Yoon will have a summit with Turkmenistan President Serdar Berdimuhamedow and will attend a business forum attended by the two countries’ companies on the next day.

He will stop by in Kazakhstan on June 11 for a summit with President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev on June 12. The leaders also plan to attend a business forum attended by the two countries’ companies.

Yoon will arrive in Uzbekistan on June 13 and will hold a summit with President Shavkat Mirziyoyev and attend a business forum on June 14. Yoon’s wife, Kim Keon Hee, will accompany him on the trip.

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Uzbekistan's Spanish tour guide

Ruben Sanchez, the only 11-a-side footballer in Uzbekistan, raves about the country's culture, people and tourist attractions.

Ruben Sanchez is the only Spanish footballer playing in Uzbekistan

The Central Asian country is set to host the FIFA Futsal World Cup

Sanchez enthuses about its culture, people and tourist attractions

In July 2022, Spanish footballer Ruben Sanchez began a new phase of his career in Uzbekistan, the host nation of the FIFA Futsal World Cup 2024™. Keen to learn more about the central Asian country, FIFA turned to the Toledo native, who was happy to play the role of guide and offer advice to fans planning to go there for the tournament. With spells at Toledo, Sporting Gijon, Recreativo Granada and Rayo Majadahonda already to his name, the 29-year-old forward is now with his second Uzbek club, having moved to AGMK Olmaliq in January 2023 after six months with Surkhon Termez. Sanchez is the only Spaniard – or person from a Hispanic country – playing in the Uzbekistan Super League. Who better then to tell us what to expect from 14 September to 6 October in host cities Tashkent, Bukhara and Andijan.

FIFA: Having played your football in Uzbekistan since July 2022, you must already know the country pretty well? FIFA: Having played your football in Uzbekistan since July 2022, you must already know the country pretty well?

Ruben Sanchez: The capital Tashkent is very nice, as it combines traditional and modern culture. The city has some very cool areas with nice buildings and parks. One example is Tashkent City Park, which is very large and has buildings that are lit up at night. They have also built a shopping mall that is the largest in Central Asia.

I’ve travelled around the country less than I would have liked, because my football commitments don’t leave me much spare time, but I have to mention Samarkand. It’s a must-see if you visit Uzbekistan, as it’s one of the most historic cities in the country, with it being an important stop on the old Silk Road. Outside the capital, you can find more 'authentic' cities. People are very polite and always willing to help you.

Samarkand is the venue for this Sunday's group-stage draw, which will take place in the unbeatable setting that is the historic Registan Square... Samarkand is the venue for this Sunday's group-stage draw, which will take place in the unbeatable setting that is the historic Registan Square...

Registan Square is one of the most beautiful plazas in the world and not to be missed. Samarkand has many mosques that are steeped in history, and you can see a lot of sights if you’re able to spend two days in the city.

What can we expect from a city of more than three million inhabitants like Tashkent? What can we expect from a city of more than three million inhabitants like Tashkent?

The capital will really surprise you! It is a very touristic city and the centre has people from many countries like Japan, China, Russia, Ukraine and Serbia. Outside the centre, you can find numerous traditional food markets, such as the Chorsu Bazaar, which I highly recommend. You’ll also find every kind of restaurant. People here drink a lot of tea, at any time really, even on very hot days, but they drink less coffee.

Could you recommend a typical local dish? Could you recommend a typical local dish?

Their signature dish is plov, a sweet rice containing raisins, grapes, carrots, lamb, onions and spices. Somsas are a bit like our empanadas (savoury pastries) and are filled with minced lamb or chicken, as well as potato, cheese and onions. There’s also shashlik, which is diced meat on skewers, usually of grilled lamb, although there are variants of beef and chicken. Soups are also very common, and the typical bread is very interesting. But when it comes to everyday life, I do the same supermarket shopping as I did in Spain.

Can you tell us a bit about the Uzbek people, who will be passionately engaged with the FIFA Futsal World Cup? Can you tell us a bit about the Uzbek people, who will be passionately engaged with the FIFA Futsal World Cup?

Andijan, one of the venues for the futsal tournament, has a great love for football. But when the national football team plays, which it does at the Milliy Stadium used by capital side FC Bunyodkor, the club where Rivaldo once played and Luiz Felipe Scolari coached, the venue is packed with passionate supporters. Whenever the national team plays, the fans turn out en masse to support them.

We understand there will be special affection from the locals for Spain because they have another Spaniard as their coach in Venancio Lopez. He is someone steeped in the sport’s history… We understand there will be special affection from the locals for Spain because they have another Spaniard as their coach in Venancio Lopez. He is someone steeped in the sport’s history…

I recently had dinner with him at one of the gatherings the Spanish consul in Uzbekistan organise from time to time. He sat next to me and told me about Uzbekistan's goals for the World Cup. He also told me about their adventure at the Asian Cup, where they finished third, and it’s clear that they have what it takes to perform very well. Venancio said that reaching the last 16, or even surpassing it to have Uzbekistan's best-ever result at a World Cup, would be great.

When you moved to Uzbekistan in 2022, we imagine you didn't know much about the country. What was the move like and how has your time there been? When you moved to Uzbekistan in 2022, we imagine you didn't know much about the country. What was the move like and how has your time there been?

I was about to sign for a club in Spain when I got the offer from FC Surkhon through the Spanish coach who was there. At first, it came as a shock, as I couldn’t even place Uzbekistan on the map. Luckily there were Spaniards playing there already, so I got in touch with them. They told me about Tashkent, the city I was going to be living in, and so I came. I wanted to experience playing outside of Spain, and in truth it was the correct decision. Today I’m happy, as is my partner, who works at an international university here in Tashkent. We’ve adapted very well to the culture of the country. Uzbek people treat tourists very well. When the Surkhon project was finished, the other Spanish left but I received a proposal from another club, which I accepted. We were content and happy here, so we decided to stay on. We feel good here and are suited to life in Uzbekistan.