uzbekistan travel tours

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Uzbekistan Tours & Trips

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106 Uzbekistan tour packages with 227 reviews

• In-depth Cultural

Highlights of Uzbekistan

The choice of hotels was well studied to add the charm of every city to the tour. Some local hotels felt we were living the culture itself.

Premium Uzbekistan

Excellent tour, excellent guide Lochin. Well-planned and thoughtful itinerary.

Uzbekistan Cultural Tour (Tashkent to Samarkand, Bukhara and Khiva) boutique hotels option

Very well organized, nice hotels and great guides - I can just recommend it!

Uzbekistan Adventure

Samarkand was a dream come true and Bukhara a surprise highlight. Our group strongly recommend the hammam visit as a great bonding experience.

• Christmas & New Year

Uzbekistan 7 Day Cultural Tour (from Tashkent to Bukhara, Samarkand, and back to Tashkent)

We didn't need to worry about a thing! Our guides in Bukhara and Samarkand were excellent and very knowledgeable.

Varied Uzbekistan

We were delighted with the country, the people, the excellent German-speaking guides and the service provided by Zamin Travel.

• Hiking & Trekking

Trekking to the Hissar mountains

The planning of the trek could be better. It is more satisfactory to progress from one location to another.

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Country where thousands-old antiquity exists in harmony with modern civilization.

Excellent, tour guides were on time, drivers excellent, thank you

Golden Silk Road

• Sightseeing

Uzbekistan Tour

East Site added 100% more to original 100% (theatre tickets as a special compliment, a night-time tour of Samarkand).

The Silk Road of Uzbekistan

We were very impressed by the organisation and quality of the tour. As our guide, he provided in-depth knowledge.

• 10% deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Uzbekistan Uncovered

I liked the trip very much. Our tour guide was great and the tour plan was very educational

Customized Private Uzbekistan Adventure in 10 Days, Daily Departure

• Book With Flexibility This operator allows you to rebook your dates or tours with them for free, waiving change fees.

Tailor-Made Aral Sea Adventure with Daily Departure & Private Guide

Classic Uzbekistan Group Tour

What people love about uzbekistan tours.

A WONDERFUL COUNTRY WITH MANY SPENDORS... BUT BE PREPARED TO SPEND A LOT OF TIME ON THE BUS IF YOU TAKE THIS TOUR Uzbekistan is fabulous and there are so many great things to see. The guide for this tour (Kamila) was very kind and competent. The accomodation was fine. The itinerary was standard. While the driver was excellent, a lot of time was spent on the bus. In retrospect, I wish I had had the confidence to travel independently using planes and trains.

Loved the Uzbekistan tour! It was well organized, and the tour group size was just right. Lochin Juraev was an excellent guide and we had a wonderful experience visiting Tashkent, Samarkand, Bukhara and Khiva to learn about the rich history of the country. Some suggestions: The hotel choices were good to excellent, and were located well. The madrasa stay in Khiva, while interesting to experience, had tight quarters for two people. We enjoyed the food and the marvelous fruit/produce. We did note that the food choices are somewhat limited for people who are vegetarians. A quicker way to get to either Bukhara or Khiva (rather than via long bus rides) would have given us more time in these two historical gems. Also, allocation of some down time to wander around in the historical areas/ do shopping would enhance the overall experience!

Javlon and Shaxnoza were great english speaking guides. Enjoyed all the historic sites and had excellent accommodations while staying in Tashkent, Samarkand, Bukhara, and Khiva. A suggestion for future tours is to provide an option when visiting Samarkand and Bukhara- instead of 2 days in each places, each places can be viewed in a day. We had lot of free time and besides walking nearby the hotel there was not much more to explore in these cities. Thanks Odil for your team in providing a wonderful experience

Top operators

"This tour exceeded all my expectations! The cities we went to were amazing, the food and accommodation were incredible and our guide was simply wonderful.

G Adventures is an expert in:

"Loved the Uzbekistan tour! It was well organized, and the tour group size was just right. Lochin Juraev was an excellent guide and we had a wonderful experience visiting Tashkent, Samarkand, Bukhara and Khiva to learn about the rich history of the country. Some suggestions: The hotel choices were good to excellent, and were located well. The madrasa stay in Khiva, while interesting to experience, had tight quarters for two people. We enjoyed the food and the marvelous fruit/produce. We did note that the food choices are somewhat limited for people who are vegetarians. A quicker way to get to either Bukhara or Khiva (rather than via long bus rides) would have given us more time in these two historical gems. Also, allocation of some down time to wander around in the historical areas/ do shopping would enhance the overall experience!

Intrepid Premium is an expert in:

"A very interesting trip, filled with monuments such as the spectacular sights like the Registan Square in Samarkand, and Pol Kalyon Square in Bukhara. Our hotels in Bukhara were well located near the historic sights, e.g. a 5min stroll from Laby Hauz, and within the Ichon Qala in Khiva. Even the itinerary in Tashkent was packed, including visits to the Tashkent metro with dazzling station architecture. And we also saw the historic bazaars (e.g. Chorsu) from the days of the Silk Road. But it actually was a relaxed tour, in that it only involved an early start one morning, and we had two afternoons off. The guides were knowledgeable, and many tried to take account of interests of the group, e.g. to try local food. And Steppe Journeys took care of everything, so that things ran smoothly. One area that could be improved might be provision of information that visitors might not expect -- e.g. I never realised that you cannot change back unused Uzbek Soum within the airport's departure lounge but had to do this before going to the airport.

Steppe Journeys is an expert in:

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Land of enchantment

Centuries of Silk Road wealth built Uzbekistan into an exotic land of ancient cities filled with domes, minarets, and intricate Islamic tile work, and the atmospheric madrasas and mosques of Bukhara and Samarkand rank among the most glorious of all Central Asia. This is also where Islam collided with communism: the capital of Tashkent grew to be one of the largest cities in the Soviet Union, with predictable results. Entirely surrounded by the Central Asian "Stans," the land ranges from flat, arid plains to the Fergana Valley spread with cotton to eastern mountain peaks that attract mountaineers and backcountry skiers.

What our travellers are saying about Uzbekistan tours

Recommended tours, uzbekistan tour photos from our travellers.

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Choosing to travel to unusual destinations such as North Korea is a big decision, and choosing the right people to take you is an incredibly important part of that. Learn about how we facilitate tourism responsibly in some of the most interesting and unique destinations on our planet, and at the same time ensure you get the most out of your once-in-a-lifetime experience .

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• Turkmenistan

Explore the heart of Central Asia, Uzbekistan! Travel along the ancient Silk Road to remote, fascinating parts like Karakalpakstan.

Koryo Tours runs expertly curated odysseys across the four neighbouring Stans; Kazakhstan , Tajikistan , Kyrgyzstan , and Turkmenistan . Now the most celebrated slice of Central Asia awaits, with the most spectacular cities and stories. It's the perfect time to visit Uzbekistan, as renewed confidence courses through the land. No longer demolishing Soviet cultural heritage, the capital now celebrates its architecture as Tashkent Modernism. Enjoy the blockbuster sights in Samarkand and Bukhara. From Tamerlane’s tomb and the stately Registan to Silk Road bazaars and caravanserais. Uncover hidden treasures on this Uzbek adventure! Our full Uzbekistan tours are led by Koryo Tour's founder Nick Bonner and accompanied by Calum MacLeod who will give guest lectures. We also have Uzbekistan tours you can combine with other Central Asian countries. Calum co-wrote the first dedicated guidebook to Uzbekistan in English (Odyssey, with Bradley Mayhew). "One of those rare travel guides that is a joy to read whether or not you are planning a trip" - The New York Times. Note: We require all travellers on international and North Korea tours to have valid travel insurance . Uzbekistan Tour Page Images ©Calum MacLeod.

October 2024 — 3 tours

October 5 - october 17 2024, turkmenistan & uzbekistan adventure, combine the best of two stans; explore the deserts of turkmenistan, ancient cities of uzbekistan, & meet the locals.

Join us as we venture across the deserts of Turkmenistan, ancient cities of Uzbekistan, and meet the local people who call this incredible region home! From 3750 USD per person

Please apply by 10th September, 2024 .

Turkmenistan & Uzbekistan Adventure

This adventure will take us through the heart of  Central Asia , beginning with a journey across  Turkmenistan ’s vast deserts, experiencing the stunning  Darvaza Gas Crater  and the shining white capital city of Ashgabat , built entirely of marble. Plus, you will take a visit to the far west of the country to venture through the mysterious  Awaza Resort .

After Turkmenistan, we’ll make a crossing into neighbouring  Uzbekistan  for a trip through time as we visit the ancient capitals of  Samarkand  and  Bukhara. After here, you'll head north to round off your adventure in the nation’s capital,  Tashkent . It's home to incredible history and a few secrets which few know about!

If you’re looking for a true adventure in Central Asia, this is the trip for you. Hitting all the highlights of these two great republics, you can mix ancient history with stunning modernity. All in the company of Koryo Tours and local experts. 

A truly great Central Asian adventure that you won't find anywhere else!

• Gateway to Hell: The Darvaza Gas Crater
• The Mysterious Caspian Resort at Awaza
• The Rarely Visited Turkmenbashi City
• The Pearls of Persia: Bukhara & Samarkand
• The Mighty Tashkent Solar Furnace

Day 1 of 13

Saturday, 5th october.

• We’ll meet in the heart of  Turkmenistan ’s capital. After a bit of rest, we’ll begin our day with an optional in-depth orientation walk around  Ashgabat .  
•   Tekke Bazaar.  Upon leaving the hotel, we’ll wander along the tree-lined boulevards of the nation’s capital, heading to the  Tekke Bazaar . Tekke Bazaar is a busy market, popular amongst local people; this covered bazaar sells it all. Meat, fruits, vegetables, flowers, and clothing. Opposite, second-hand booksellers set up on weekends in the small park. If you’re lucky, you may find a copy of the Ruhnama, written by the president of Turkmenistan, Saparmurat Niyazov. Niyazov famously said, ”A person who reads Ruhnama three times becomes smart, and after it, he will go straight to heaven”.  
• Inspiration Park.  From the Tekke Bazaar, we will wander to  Inspiration Park. This is a public park at the centre of downtown Ashgabat. Inspiration Park is a narrow parkland lined with sculptures of Persian poets, scholars and great thinkers, surrounded by beautiful natural scenery.  
• Russian Bazaar.  We’ll continue our exploration, calling at another Bazaar, the  Russian Bazaar . A covered market where you will be able to pick up a vast array of items – the perfect stop if there’s anything you’ve forgotten to pack! Cables, chargers, sweets, kimchi, baked goods, fruit & nuts as well as souvenirs. This market has it all, unless you’re after Turkmen cotton.  
• The  Alty Asyr Shopping Centre  over the road is an excellent stop for some well-priced Turkmen cotton goods offering everything from tracksuits and T-shirts to towels and bedsheets.  
• Statue of Lenin.  Once we have stopped for a spot of lunch, we will continue the walk, checking out Ashgabat’s Soviet past on our visit to the  Statue of Lenin . Ashgabat’s Lenin may not be the biggest, but his enormous carpet-patterned plinth compensates for this. Not far from Lenin, we’ll catch a glimpse of Russia’s most famous poet, Pushkin at the  Pushkin Monument . From Pushkin, we will walk onwards to visit Pervyy Park – Ashgabat’s oldest park, founded in 1890, formerly named Officer Park, Lenin Park, First Park and Independence Park.  
• From the park, it’s a short stroll to  Ashgabat Train Station . Initially built in 1888, the first railway station was destroyed in the 1948 earthquake along with much of the city. A new station was built in 1950 and remodelled in 2009; the station looks impressive, crowned by the eight-pointed star (Rub El Hizb). Finally, we will head back to the hotel for our first group meal.

Accommodation:  Olympic Hotel,  Ashgabat

Included Meals:  Dinner

Sunday, 6th October

• Altyn Asyr Bazaa.  After a hearty breakfast, we’re up and out into Ashgabat, our first stop, the  Altyn Asyr Bazaar , formerly the Tolkuchka Bazaar. Located on the outskirts of Ashgabat, it’s the largest market in the country and one of the largest in Central Asia. Relocated to its current location in 2011, Altyn Asyr is a massive affair. It sells everything from household goods, clothes, Turkmen carpets, camels and much more!  
• Ashgabat Hippodrome.  After our mega shopping experience, it’s off to the races as we make our way to the  Ashgabat Hippodrome . Sunday is race day here in Ashgabat, and what better animal to watch racing than the legendary Turkmen  Akhal-Teke Horses . The greyhound of the horse world, the Akhal-Teke horse is one of the oldest existing horse breeds in the world.  
• Independence Park   & Moument . After a delicious lunch, we’ll explore a little more of Turkmenistan’s marbled capital. Our first visit to  Independence Park  and  Independence Monument , was constructed to celebrate the independence of Turkmenistan on the 27th of October 1991. As well as the memorial, the park is home to an impressive array of statues of characters from Turkmen history.  
• Monument of Neutrality.  From Independence to Neutrality, we go! Our next visit is the  Monument of Neutrality  built in 1998. A gold statue of Turkmenbashi tops this impressive structure.  
• Earthquake Monument and Museum.  We hope you’re not too tired of statues just yet as we have a few more to go. Next up, the  Earthquake Monument and Museum . A grim reminder of the terrible earthquake that struck Ashgabat in 1948, killing 110,00 people and levelling the city. Both are tastefully presented and very educational.  
• Ashgabat's Unusual Architecture. On our way back to the hotel, we will pass a few of Ashgabat’s more unusual buildings, The Ministry of Gas is shaped like a giant cigarette lighter. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs is shaped like a globe... And our personal favourite, The Ashgabat Dental Hospital is shaped like a massive tooth!  
• Once we have returned to the hotel, you are free to continue exploring Ashgabat or enjoy some well-deserved rest.

Included Meals:  Breakfast, Lunch

Monday, 7th October

• Free time. This morning there is a bit of free time for relaxing or shopping for supplies. This is useful as later today we’re off into the desert.  
• Into the Desert . Our first stop is the small desert village of  Bokhurdag . It is here that we stop to sample the local cuisine and learn a little more about living outside the bright lights of Turkmenistan’s flamboyant capital. After lunch, before heading a little deeper into the  Karakum Desert , we will make a stop at the village of  Erbent .  
• Erbent . Erbent is similar to most of the surrounding desert settlements, however, it is here that the  Monument to the Basmachi Revolution  is located. The Basmachi revolutionary monument was built here as this area was a Basmachi stronghold during the 1920s. The Basmachi were an Islamic group fighting the occupying Soviet forces.  
• Once our journey resumes, we’ll continue stopping as we travel to see other examples of the desert’s mining history. We visit two other craters (one filled with water, the other with mud). A perfect pretext for the great  Darvaza Gas Crater .  
• Darvaza Gas Crater. The incredible Darvaza Gas Crater, continuously burning since 1971, was created when Soviet engineers were drilling what they thought were vast oil fields. No oil was found, and the fields turned out to be rich in gas, evident when the drilling rig at Darvaza hit a void and collapsed in on itself. Sometime later it’s believed that the escaping gas was set alight to prevent methane from polluting a nearby village. Here we are all these years later. And the gas crater has now become one of the world’s most unusual tourist attractions.  
• We’ll arrive during daylight hours to observe the transition from light to dark as the night sky becomes illuminated by the flickering blaze of the crater.  
• Camping at Darvaza Gas Crater. Camping next to this burning void, we will enjoy a delicious  Turkmen BBQ  prepared by our local crew.

Accommodation:  Camping, Darvaza Gas Crater

Included Meals:  Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Tuesday, 8th October

• For some, it may be a little bit of a hazy start after enjoying a night of peering into the flaming heart of the Darvaza Gas Crater. After breakfast, we’ll climb back into the 4X4s, arriving in Ashgabat before lunch.  
• Ashgabat . Once we have checked in and had a chance to freshen up, we will take local taxis into Ashgabat’s marble-clad city centre to see its famous white heart. First stop, Ashgabat’s grandiose, opulent shopping mall, Berkerar.   
• Berkerar Mall  was opened in 2015 and it looks like a cross between a mosque and a palace, from the outside at least. While the inside is just as grand, for us it’s an excellent opportunity to grab a spot of lunch and see some local life before starting our walk.  
• City Tour. Once we’ve eaten, it’s out into the city passing wide open streets and pristine white apartments as we make our way back to the hotel. The start of our city hike takes us past the imposing  2017 Asian Indoor and Martial Arts Games Stadium Area . The stadium area was built at the cost of around 5 billion USD. At its heart lies the  Saparmurat Turkmenbashy Olympic Stadium , noticeable as part of the stadium is the shape of a giant Akhal-Teke Horse Head.  
• As we walk on through the city, we will skirt the  Presidential Area Complex , forbidden to head inside, but we can still marvel at the magnificent golden domes and massive structures.  
• Before we reach our hotel, we will pass more statues, mosaics, and impressively whitened buildings.

Accommodation:  Olympic Hotel, Ashgabat

Wednesday, 9th October

• After breakfast today, we’ll be checking out of our hotel and once again heading out of Ashgabat to explore a little more of Turkmenistan.  
• Nisa Fortress.  Our first stop is the ancient  Nisa Fortress. A UNESCO-listed site, this former Parthian capital is now just a shadow of its former self. But still fascinating. A journey around Nisa Fortress is a must for those interested in history. Believed to have been started by the first Parthian king, Arsaces I, Nisa Fortress was later named Mithradatkirt (Fortress of Mithradates) after the famed Parthian who elevated the Parthian Empire to historic greatness!  
• Akhal-Teke Horses.  The Parthians, like their Turkmen descendants, were famed for their beautiful horses. And our next stop gets us up close to the magnificent  Akhal-Teke horses  as we visit a nearby stud farm. We will learn more about the famed Turkmen horse and its actual value at the stud farm.  
• Bakharden Cave.  As we slowly edge away from Ashgabat, we’ll make one more stop at the Bakharden Cave around 60 km away from the city. The  Bakharden Cave  is a popular stop for locals on holidays and weekends who travel here to venture deep underground and swim in the  Kow-Ata Underground Lake .  
• Kow-Ata Underground Lake.  Yes, it’s dark, smelly, and a little bizarre, but the 100m deep sulphur-heated lake is one of those things worth trying just once. Once you’ve taken a swim or watched everyone else attempt it, we will have lunch at one of the delicious Shashlik restaurants just outside.  
• Balkanabad.  After lunch, it’s on with the adventure as we travel further with our 4X4s to the remote desert city of  Balkanabad . We should arrive in late afternoon, giving you the chance to explore a little of this friendly city on your own.

Accommodation:  Hotel Niebitchi, Balkanabat

Thursday, 10th October

• We’ll depart our hotel early this morning as we have a lot of driving and a lot to see. Our first stop is the  Balkanabat Market . It may be small, but it’s still an exciting stop to catch a little of the local life in this town. As we pass many of the local Soviet-style buildings on our way through town, we will make one final stop.  
• Monument to the Desert Explorers . Located on the outskirts of town, the Monument to the Desert Explorers is an impressive memorial constructed to honour those early Russian researchers who discovered oil and were responsible for the founding of Balkanabat.  
• Yangykala Canyon.  Once we leave the dusty streets of  Balkanabat , we’re out into the desert on our way to the  Yangykala Canyon . Along the way, we pass impressive desert features such as rolling dunes, cliffs and geological features such as fossil beds containing evidence that this whole area was once a vast inland sea.  
• Turkmen Grand Canyon.  Known by some as the  ’Turkmen Grand Canyon’, the Yangykala Canyon  is an impressive yet little-known geological feature located deep within the desert. Never failing to impress, the canyon plays host to rock formations sporting many varied colours and cliffs and canyons to make even the best-travelled visitor happy to have made this lengthy detour. With breathtaking views all around us, we will be sure to stop and enjoy our packed lunch in this most stunning location. Once you have taken as many photos as you can, we will board our 4X4s and drive to Turkmenbashi.  
• Caspian Sea.  As we cut our way through the desert, we’ll eventually catch sight of the mighty  Caspian Sea , the largest inland sea in the world. Clinging to the Caspian coast, we will pass through the port city of Turkmenbashi on our way to our final destination of the day, the resort town of  Awaza .  
• Awaza.  A bizarre collection of grandiose tourist hotels, attractions and sites, Awaza is a place that has to be seen to be believed. We have a real treat in store as our accommodation is one of the best in the area, and the most surreal. We will check in with enough time to catch the sunset over the Capsian before a well-deserved rest.

Accommodation:  Yelken Yacht Club, Awaza

Friday, 11th October

• Today, unlike previous days on this Turkmen adventure, you’ll have a free morning to rest, relax or explore your unusual surroundings. If it’s warm enough or you're feeling particularly daring, you can take a plunge into the Caspian, wander along the shoreline looking at the interesting architecture or enjoy the Truman Show feel of our hotel resort.  
• Awaza Canal.  If it’s operating, we will make the day a little more bizarre and take a boat ride on the artificial  Awaza Canal . A short 50-minute ride set to puzzle and confuse you is a perfect prelude to a pleasant lunch in  Turkmenbashi , the oldest city in the country. Whilst the city is nowhere near as visually impressive as Ashgabat, it does have some exciting sites dotted around, many of which we will be sure to visit.  
• Turkmenbashi.  Formerly Krasnovodsk, the city was named after a fort built by the Russians after their second invasion in 1869. Krasnovodsk served as a vital jumping point for Russian imperial soldiers as they continued forward with their conquests of Khiva and Bukhara.  
• Turkmenbashi Railway Station . On the 8th of October 1993, President-for-Life Saparmurat Niyazov renamed the city after himself Turkmenbashi (Head of all Turkmens). First, we will visit the Turkmenbashi Railway Station. This pleasant Russian-built station was constructed in 1895 and still departures and arrivals to and from locations across Central Asia.  
• From the station, we’ll cross the road to see the  Oil Worker’s Square  and the  Monument to the Great Patriotic War  commemorating all of those Turkmen who lost their lives in this distant conflict. Including Atamurat Niyazov, the father of Saparmurat Niyazov. From the square, we will look at some of the city’s architecture, which may not be so inspiring, but much of it was built by Japanese and German POWs from the war.  
• Our final stop of the day will be the  Cheryomushki Bazaar , located at the heart of Turkmenbashi. This bustling market is one of the country’s best, with friendly stallholders selling local snacks and crafts. For those interested in fish from the Caspian, the fish market on site boasts an impressive selection of the sea’s bounty.  
• Once we’ve had our fill of Turkmenbashi, we’ll head to the nearby airport for our flight to  Ashgabat. We will arrive in time for our last group meal in Turkmenistan, and prepare ourselves for the adventure onward to Uzbekistan!

Saturday, 12th October

Turkmenistan - uzbekistan.

• Border Crossing. This morning we’ll depart Ashgabat and make our way to the airport for our connecting flight to  Turkmenabat , Turkmenistan’s border city with its northern neighbour, Uzbekistan. Once we’ve arrived in the city, we’ll head for the border, passing through the various customs checks before finally waving goodbye to our Turkmen friends, and heading into  Uzbekistan .  
• Bukhara.  Once we’ve crossed the border, we’ll meet up with our new Uzbek guides, and head towards the nearby city of  Bukhara , an ancient city that was once the heart of empires in the region. Along with nearby Samarkand, Bukhara served as the heart of the Persian world for centuries under numerous empires, and continues today as Uzbekistan’s seventh largest city, and one of its most popular attractions for foreign travellers, owing to its rich history as a Persian capital, and an outpost on the renowned Silk Road.  
• We’ll head straight for our hotel where we’ll have a free evening to relax, before heading out tomorrow to experience Bukhara!

Accommodation:  3* Hotel

Sunday, 13th October

• Today we’ll enjoy a day in the picturesque surroundings of  Bukhara , exploring the ancient legacy of this stunning city. Our first stop of the day will be the magnificent Kalyan Minaret.  
• Kalyan Minaret.  Built in 1127, the  Kalyan Minaret  is all that survives of a once grandiose  Djuma Mosque , designed for crowds of people to worship at once. Today, the site has been rebuilt around the footprint of this great tower, now at the centre of a courtyard surrounded by galleries and stunning architecture. It’s from here that the ancient call to prayer would have blasted across the city, and many locals would have descended on the site. It was built twice. Evidence suggests the soft ground led it to collapse after being nearly completed the first time. However, after almost a millennium, it shouldn’t fall again!  
• Khoja-Gaukushon.  Next, we’ll make our way to  Khoja-Gaukushon. A great ensemble at the heart of the city, home to a mosque, madrassah, and minaret. The area once served as a kind of plaza for local people to meet, trade, set up market stalls, and (rather oddly) slaughter animals. The name ‘Gaukushon’ means ‘Slaughter of Bulls’. Later, a large minaret, mosque, and madrassah were built on the site, adding to the great patchwork of beautiful buildings littered across the skyline of Bukhara.  
• Finally, we’ll wrap up with the  Mausoleum of Naqshbandi  and the summer residence of the last Emir of Bukhara which sits a few kilometres outside the city itself. The mausoleum is a place of pilgrimage for many Sufis and a place of incredible beauty, whilst the summer palace is known as ‘the place where the moon meets the stars.  
• This evening, we’ll head to the train station to catch a late high-speed train to nearby  Samarkand , another gem in the heart of this region.

Monday, 14th October

• Samarkand.  This morning we’ll wake up surrounded by the ancient city of  Samarkand.  We have a full day to experience the sights and sounds of this bustling place.  
• Registan Square.  Our first stop will be  Registan Square . The Registan is an ensemble of majestic and stunningly beautiful madrassahs, the most incredible example of Islamic architecture. The plaza would once have been dominated by a great bazaar, allowing local people to go about their business. Meanwhile, the surrounding madrassahs allow scholars to work and create a centre for Islamic scholars across Central Asia. Today, the Registan is the number one, must-see sight in the country. An unmissable experience!  
• Mausoleum of Tamerlane.  We will also make a stop at the  Mausoleum of Tamerlane , known as the Gur Emir, a national icon in Uzbekistan. This is followed by a visit to a necropolis which graces the northern part of the city,  Shah-i-Zinda . A fabulous example of traditional Islamic architecture in the region, comprising numerous buildings, towers and beautiful domed rooves. The turquoise mosaic tiling contrasts against the arid sandy backdrop of Samarkand’s desert surroundings.  
• Bibi-Khanym Mosque.  We’ll also visit the  Bibi-Khanym Mosque , once the largest in Central Asia.  
• Siab Baazar.  We break away from the ancient history to explore the local market, known as the  Siab Baazar . Whether you’re searching for textiles and fabrics, exquisite and intriguing foodstuffs, or just looking for an opportunity to rub shoulders with Samarkand’s locals – Siab Baazar is the place to visit. The market is a great place to pick up souvenirs, clothes, snacks, and all manner of things, but it’s also an oddly peaceful and fun place to spend some time. Wander the aisles, chat with shoppers and market vendors, and experience life as it’s truly lived in this city.

Tuesday, 15th October

• Tashkent.  This morning we’ll bid farewell to  Samarkand  as we head to the train station to catch a high-speed train from the city and head north. This journey will take around 3 hours to our destination,  Tashkent, the capital of Uzbekistan . Since its near destruction during an earthquake in 1966, the city has been redeveloped. This was initially by the Soviet Union, leaving an obvious trace of the USSR in its city planning.  
• Institute of Solar Physics.  This afternoon, we’ll take a trip outside of the city to the  Institute of Solar Physics.  A huge series of mirrors used to heat a large furnace. The institute will open just for us. They will run a test of the system to demonstrate the immense power of this Soviet-era megaproject.  
• Uzbekistan’s Countryside.  45km outside the city, we’ll pass through some of Uzbekistan’s northern countryside, a far cry from the dry desert-like environment which dominates the rest of the country. Upon arrival, we’ll witness the effect of these huge parabolic mirrors, heating the furnace to over 3000*C. We’ll also learn about the potential that exists for clean energy from this system, since the energy produced is completely clean, and could be put to work in the future for clean energy.  
• Our accommodation tonight will be the  Hotel Uzbekistan. This was once the premiere hotel in the country for visiting dignitaries, government officials, and rare foreign tourists.

Accommodation:  Hotel Uzbekistan

Wednesday, 16th October

• Tashkent . This morning we’ll step out into the bustling city of  Tashkent .  
• Amir Timur Square.  Our day begins with a visit to  Amir Timur Square  at the heart of this vibrant capital.  One of the main squares in Tashkent, Amir Timur is graced with a magnificent  Statue of Tamerlane , a medieval conqueror, on horseback. Although Amir Timur is not the largest square in the city, the tree-lined pavements and bright green grass make it perfect for an evening stroll amidst the locals of Tashkent.  
• Chorus Bazaar.  From here, we will spend some time in the beautifully domed  Chorus Bazaar.  A great place to observe local life or buy those last-minute bargains, and another chance to chat with locals from the city, as well as support local independent businesses in Tashkent.  
• Tashkent Metro.  No visit to Tashkent would be complete without a ride on the  Tashkent Metro  built in the former USSR. The metro network consists of three lines which crisscross beneath the streets of the city. This incredibly ornate metro system opened in 1977 and has only grown in beauty. Not only is it an incredible tourist attraction in its own right, but you can use it to get between Tashkent’s other incredible above-ground sites! Tashkent Metro is one of only two subway systems currently operating in Central Asia (the other is the Almaty Metro).  
• Fine Arts Museum of Uzbekistan.  Our last stop for the day will be the  Fine Arts Museum of Uzbekistan . There are, of course, hundreds of museums across the Uzbek capital worth poking your head in. However, our favourite must be the State Fine Arts Museum, home to thousands of artefacts from across Russia and Europe. This Soviet-era museum holds many of the treasures confiscated from the Grand Duke Romanov, who himself likely stole them from St Petersburg. In addition, artwork from across Russia and the Soviet Union is displayed throughout this museum.  
• Hotel Uzbekistan . Finally, we’ll return to our Soviet hotel – from here, we’ll have a free evening. You’ll be able to wander the streets, find and try unusual delicacies, and meet local Tashkenters.

Thursday, 17th October

This morning, airport transfers will be provided to all travellers heading to the airport for international flights. For extension opportunities, please contact your tour manager.

END OF TOUR

Included Meals:  Breakfast

What is / is not included?

• English Speaking Guide
• Western Tour Leader
• All Listed Meals
• Accommodation
• Internal Flights
• All Included Sightseeing
• All Taxes & Entrance Fees

NOT INCLUDED

• Single Supplement
• Extra Night(s) Accommodation
• International Flights
• Uzbekistan Visa

October 19 - November 8 2024

The Five Stans Tour

Discover the heart of the ancient Silk Road & Tour the 5 Stans! Kyrygztsan, Kazakhstan, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, Turkmenistan

A 21-Day Odyssey across Central Asia following the ancient Silk Road; Exploring highlights & getting off the beaten path! From 5450 USD per person

Please apply by 1st October, 2024 .

Spend 3 weeks ticking off all 5 of the 'Stan Countries'!

This trip, curated and led by our expert tour leaders and in-country partners, is designed to show you the best of Central Asia in the limited time we have. All with a special Koryo-Twist that makes all of our tours so unique.

It will take you from the mountainous republic of Kyrgyzstan on a 3-week adventure . You'll walk the path of the ancient Silk Road, as we wind between vast mountain ranges , cross stunning rivers , traverse great deserts , and rub shoulders with local people from across Central Asia.

Having worked in Central Asia for over two decades, Koryo Tours are extremely happy to be able to announce this trip that has been years in the making. Truly the ultimate trip for those travellers wishing to get a thorough insight into Central Asia from those who know and love it best. Crossing multiple borders by land can be tricky... Sit back and let us do all the hard work and planning - leaving you more time for enjoying! 

Let's take a look at an introduction to what you can expect from each of these unique countries. 

This journey begins in Bishkek , the capital of Kyrgyzstan, known for its incredible mountain ranges and ancient history.

We’ll spend a couple of days in the country, both in the capital and in the surrounding region, exploring the beauty and history of this great country.

No true adventure to this region would be complete without a visit to Almaty , Kazakhstan.

This ancient city is still a thriving hub in this intriguing and enigmatic country, and also the perfect gateway from which to fly into the heart of Central Asia.

Another great mountainous republic , Tajikistan is home to a handful of incredible cities. We’ll begin in Dushanbe . Perhaps the most laid-back, and beautiful capital in the region.

Home to ancient cultural traditions, and the more modern trappings of the Soviet Union.

Once home to ancient Persian capitals.

Uzbekistan is where we transition from towering mountains to blistering deserts as we journey to explore what remains of Samarkand and Bukhara. Once a hub of Islamic culture and architecture, and still home to some of the most beautiful sites in Asia.

One of the strangest offerings from this adventure.

Whether you’re looking to marvel at ancient cities in Merv & Mary , stare into the gateway to hell at the Darvaza Gas Crater , or wonder at the pure white marble capital, Turkmenistan has something for everyone!

Looking for something shorter? We run individual and combo tours to all of the above countries, as well as private tours for those travellers looking for something more flexible. 

Turkmenistan Tours | Uzbekistan Tours | Tajikistan Tours | Kyrgyzstan Tours | Kazakhstan Tours

• The stunning natural beauty of Kyrgyzstan: The Mountain Republic.
• Enjoy mountains and rivers, and mix with locals in beautiful, laid-back Dushanbe (Tajikistan)
• Almaty & Little-Known Tashkent Solar Furnace (Kazakhstan)
• The Ancient Cities of Samarkand & Bukhara (Uzbekistan)
• The Gateway to Hell: Darvaza Gas Crater & Ashgabat. The Marble Capital! (Turkmenistan)

Day 1 of 21

October 19 | Saturday

Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan

• Our adventure begins in the heart of Central Asia’s mountainous heart of the capital of Kyrgyzstan, Bishkek .  
• Airport Pick-Up | All travellers will be met at the airport and taken straight to the group hotel where we’ll meet for introductions and a pre-tour briefing.

Bishkek City Tour

• Osh Bazaar | Our first stop will be the Osh Bazaar. A bustling market at the heart of Bishkek. This gives us a chance to rub shoulders with the locals and pick up bits and bobs from the market traders.  
• National Philharmonic | From the market, we’ll make our way to the Soviet-era National Philharmonic building an austere, communist-era building. The hard edges of the concrete are softened somewhat by the bright flowers and magnificent bronze statue which graces the front of the building.  
• Next, we’ll stop off at the Ala-too Square and the nearby State Historical Museum. And we follow this with a walk through Oak Park. We can enjoy the local Open-air art gallery and the various sculptures contained within.  
• State Department Store | Finally, we’ll head to Victory Square and the nearby State Department Store, ZUM. These state-run department stores are a main-stay across former communist states, home to everything from traditional souvenirs to home appliances.  
• Return to Hotel | As the day draws to a close, we’ll head back to the hotel. This evening, we’ll prepare for the epic adventure ahead of us as we relax before we depart from Bishkek in the morning.

Accommodation |  Soviet-style Hotel

Included Meals |  Lunch

October 20 | Sunday

Bishkek - Chon Kemin

• Kyrgyzstan Countryside | This morning it’s up and out as we depart the nation’s capital and make our way out into the countryside. 

Burana Tower

• Our first stop today is the B urana Tower . This is an 11 th -century construction that marks the site of the once-great city of Balasagun. Once a major stopover along the Silk Road.  
• The city is nowhere to be seen today. The tower is the only remaining building at the site. Even the tower used to be taller than it is today!

Tokmok Stadium

• After marvelling at the ancient tower, we’ll continue our journey to Tokmok Stadium. This is the home of many horse sports , which remain popular across Central Asia to this day.  
• We’ll spend the afternoon enjoying some of these horse games. We will enjoy a Kyrgyz version of ‘tag'. Except on horses... and with grown men rather than primary school children!
• Finally, we’ll arrive in Chon Kemin, our rest stop for this evening. Chon Kemin is set deep in a valley, surrounded by beautiful flora and fauna.  
• There are also pine forests which coat the higher slopes above us. Here, we’ll rest for the night before carrying on our journey tomorrow towards Issyk Kul Lake.

Accommodation |  Local Guesthouse

Included Meals |  Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

October 21 | Monday

Chon Kemin - Lake Issyk Kul

Local Family Visit | This morning, we’ll visit a local family in Chon Kemin. Here, we can some time with the locals and learn about life in this strange, small town. Whilst we’re there, we may have a chance to try (or even make) some traditional Kyrgyz cuisine alongside our hosts.

Local Co-Operative (Traditional Felt Carpets)

• Shyrdaks and Ala-kiyiz | We’ll make our way to a local cooperative. They are responsible for the creation of traditional felt carpets, known locally as Shyrdaks and Ala-kiyiz.  
• This visit gives us a great chance to meet with local people keeping historical traditions alive in Kyrgyzstan. We can also learn about the arts and culture which has continued uninterrupted in Central Asia for hundreds of years.

Eagle Hunters

• Next, we’ll visit a local eagle hunter, another great example of Kyrgyz culture in action.
• Finally, we head to our overnight stop. A yurt camp on the banks of Lake Issyk Kul.  
• Here, we’ll enjoy a free evening of relaxing, swimming (for those who wish) and generally decompressing on the shores of the stunning lake, hidden deep amidst the mountains of Kyrgyzstan.

Accommodation |  Yurt Camp

October 22 | Tuesday

Lake Issk Kul - Tepke

Skazka canyon.

• Continuing our exploration of Kyrgyzstan's natural wonders, we'll depart Issyk Kul Lake and head towards Skazka Canyon, known locally as ' Fairytale Canyon '.  
• This natural wonder is a mixture of intriguing rock formations made of red sandstone. From a distance, it looks almost like flames rising from the valley floor and towering into the sky.  
• We'll spend some time admiring this Martian landscape before boarding our trusty vehicles once more and making our way to Karakol City.

Karakol City

• The city of Karakol sits at the northern tip of Issyk Kul Lake and is the country's fourth largest city .  
• Dungan Mosque | Our first stop will be the oddly charming Dungan Mosque. This mosque is famous for being built without a single nail back in 1904. It was built as a place for Muslims from China to worship in the country. Something noticeable in its design. Distinctly Chinese style of architecture.  
• Orthodox Church | Nearby sits the local Orthodox church, built at the end of 1860 entirely from wood. It's a marvel that the building continues to stand today. But it does!  
• Museum of Przkevalski | After visiting the church, we'll stop at the Museum of Przkevalski, a Russian Explorer who once gave his name to the town. Przkevalski is famous across Russia and Central Asia, and this museum allows us to learn a little more about this enigmatic adventurer!
• Finally, we'll drive to our local guesthouse near the village of Tepke.

Accommodation |  TBC

October 23 | Wednesday

Kyrgyzstan - Kazakhstan

Tien shen mountain range.

• Today, we'll make our final journey in Kyrgyzstan as we leave our guesthouse and make a beeline for the border with neighbouring Kazakhstan.
• Border Crossing | Our journey will take us to the eastern edge of the Tien Shen Mountain Range. Here, we'll make our border crossing, and head down into the steppe of southern Kazakhstan.

Charyn Canyon

• Before reaching our destination, Almaty, we'll stop at the Charyn Canyon .  
• Similar to the canyon in Kyrgyzstan, this rocky valley is filled with unusual and mesmerizing rock formations. We'll spend the afternoon here, enjoying the scenery, and the cool water of the river which runs through the bottom of the canyon.
• After we've had a pleasant packed lunch, we'll finally make our way to the world-famous city of Almaty.  
• Once the capital of Kazakhstan, it now serves as the largest city. And the culture hub of the country.  
• A major stop on the ancient Silk Road, people of all different nationalities and ethnicities have been mixing and mingling in Almaty for centuries. Something which continues to this day.  
• The Soviet planning of the city will become evident as we drive through wide-open boulevards lined with trees. And low-rise Soviet-style apartment blocks lining the smaller backroads.  
• Almaty is a city of contrasts. The modern Soviet city making way for the traditional, ancient aspects of the city. All while being nestled in the foothills of the surrounding mountains.

Accommodation |  Hotel Kazakhstan

Included Meals |  Breakfast, Lunch

October 24 | Thursday

• This morning, we'll wake up in the beautiful city of Almaty . Nestled against the precipitous Tian Shan Mountain range and dotted with parks, theatres, boulevards, and much more.

Panfilovets Park

• We'll begin our walking tour of the city with a trip to Panfilovets Park. This is Almaty's main place of leisure.  
• It is very pleasant and marked with stunning and evocative monuments to the Kazakh soldiers who fell while fighting to defend Moscow from the Nazi invasion.  
• Zenkov Cathedral is also located in this park.

Green Bazaar & Rakhat Chocolate Factory

• These neighbouring sites are local institutions. You can smell the sweetness from the latter all across this part of the city.  
• Banter and barter with sellers in the market, pick up the apples that Almaty is known for as well as all manner of other delicious local delicacies.  
• Get your sweet tooth into action with the terrific and very affordable selection at the chocolate factory. (Ideal for gifts too!)

Arbat Street

• Every good former USSR town has one. A pedestrian area ideal for promenading, window shopping, cafe culture, public art sales, and so on.  
• This one is very modern and it is lined with some great examples of brutalist apartment buildings. We'll visit some local coffee shops, visit the site of the former GUM department store in the heart of the city, and enjoy some lunch in downtown Almaty.

Almaty Metro

• Following on from our relaxing city centre, we'll board the Almaty Metro. One of only two subway systems in the whole of Central Asia. (The other is Tashkent).  
• This system opened in 2012 and strikes a balance between Moscow's opulence and modern efficiency.

Cable Car Ride

• Finally, those who wish can take a trip on a cable car ride up to a mountain overlooking the city.  
• Amazing views, a statue of the Beatles, a Ferris Wheel and toboggan ride, a small zoo, bars, and entertainment in general. Simply put - this is the city's best spot and a very popular area for local families, youths, and everyone else.

Evening Free Time

• We'll wrap the day up with a free evening to explore the city. For those who prefer to stay in the hotel, you're welcome to eat at the restaurant. Otherwise, you're free to roam the streets to find some delicious local cuisine for dinner.

October 25 | Friday

Kazakhstan - Tajikistan

Flight to tajikistan.

• This morning, we'll bid farewell to Kazakhstan as we board our flight. This flight takes us from Almaty to Dushanbe, the capital of Tajikistan.  
• The flight is only around 2 hours, and we'll fly over the majestic  Pamir Mountain Range which blankets this part of Central Asia.
• Upon arrival in Dushanbe , we'll meet our local guides and head into the city.  
• Dushanbe is a relatively young capital. It was little more than a small town at the beginning of the 20 th century. As a result, the influence of city planning by the ruling Soviet Union is stark in this city. Wide open boulevards, tree-lined streets, and a relaxed atmosphere make Dushanbe one of the greatest cities in the region for weary travellers.  
• Victory Park | Victory Park was built in 1975 to commemorate the Victory in the Great Patriotic War of 1941-1945, this Soviet-built monument offers great views of the city.  
• Rudaki & Somoni Avenues | Two main streets in Dushanbe formally known as Lenin Street and Petoskey Street. Rudaki Avenue and Somoni Avenue were renamed in the early 1990s after the poet Rudaki and the ancient king Ismail Somoni. Lined with a mixture of past Soviet architecture and modern Tajik grand buildings.  
• Rudaki Park | We'll take our time meandering through the streets of Dushanbe, making sure to stop at Rudaki Park . A beautifully laid out park with a grand statue of the poet Rudaki, located opposite the brilliant national library building.  
• Ismaili Somoni Monument | This amazing statue of the ancient king stands on the former site of Lenin. It is said that Somoni's crown contains 10 kilograms of Tajik gold.  
• Mehrgon Market Building | As the afternoon approaches, we'll head to the Mehrgon Market Building. As with many of the cities, old marketplaces are now closed in Dushanbe's drive for modernization. We visit one of the new areas where local people travel to buy fruit and vegetables as well as other necessities.  
• National Museum of Antiquities | The National Museum of Antiquities is next on our list of must-see sites. This museum gives us a more in-depth look at the complicated history of Tajikistan and the surrounding countries.  
• Botanical Gardens | We will then enjoy a visit to the Botanical Gardens. Popular for wedding groups as well as housing a vast range of Central Asian flora.  
• Dushanbe Tea House | For a bit of end-of-day relaxation, we'll visit the Dushanbe Tea House. This was once the largest tea house in the world, but it has now been remodelled as an entertainment facility for local people. It has recently been renovated and holds a small cinema, bowling alleys and even various shops. We can still visit to view the amazingly intricate work carried out in its construction.

Accommodation |  Hotel Tajikistan

October 26 | Saturday

Khoja Obi Garm Health Spa

Khoja obi garm spa.

• Today we'll depart our hotel a little later, allowing you the chance to repack and prepare for the following day's journey.  
• Today, we leave Dushanbe and make our way into the mountains.  
• Our destination is the mammoth, brutalist Soviet health spa that is  Khoja Obi Garm Health Spa.  This ageing Soviet marvel sits perched against the mountains like a Bond villain's mountain fortress. The building is an impressive display of brutalist-style architecture looking out of place against the stunning mountain backdrop.

Read all about the Khoja Obi Garm Health Spa here . 

• Construction began on  Khoja Obi Garm  in 1935 inspired by Lenin's decree that more attention should be paid to workers' health within the Soviet Union. From 1922, two weeks' holiday were given to workers during this time. Often, they would visit one of the many spa resorts being constructed across the Soviet Union. Construction of  Khoja Obi Garm  continued right up until the collapse of the Union in 1991!
• The spa will not fail to impress. Its gargantuan size from the outside fills the mountain slopes. However inside, its rooms and facilities have begun to decay.  
• We'll spend the afternoon with the feeling that we've travelled back to the 1960s. Whilst attendants poke, prod and recommend varying scary-sounding treatments. We'll be able to wander around this ageing building where time appears to have stood still.  
• If plunging into radioactive water, steam baths, and massages are not for you, then you're free to head out and about photographing this behemoth from the outside. Or view the surrounding stunning snow-capped mountains which cage this ageing monster.

Accommodation |  Khoja Obi Garm Health Spa

October 27 | Sunday

Panjikent Ancient City

• Our destination is the ancient city of Panjikent. The drive there is a worthy mention. We pass small Soviet-era villages, busy rural markets and farms dotted by blossoming apricot trees.  
• On our way, we'll make a few intriguing stops. A visit to the infamous ' Tunnel of Death ', past the burning cliffs which have been emanating smoke for longer than anyone can remember, and a visit to the local cognac factory .  
• Tracing the Zeravshan, we'll drive through deep mountain gorges with cliffs that tower above us lined with waving sediment. A testament to the region's rich geological value.

Zarafshan Valley

• Eventually, the steep valley sides open out to the lush Zarafshan Valley, a welcome sight. This means Panjikent is close! As well as a well-deserved lunch.

Panjikent City Tour

• Once we have eaten and checked into our hotel, we will continue our exploration of the city, journeying to ancient Panjikent on the fringes of the town.  
• Walking around the foundations of ancient houses , Bazaars , temples and citadels , we will learn about the area's history from our excellent local guide . From the 5 th -century Sogdian construction to the settlement's decline and abandonment at the hands of the invading Arabs in the 8 th  century (now a UNESCO-listed site).  
• Statue of Lenin | We'll also stop at a small statue of Lenin in a local park, outside a former Soviet ministerial building. A strange addition to this interesting little city.
• We drive to the bronze age settlement of Sarazm.   
• This is another regional UNESCO-listed site. It is believed to have been founded in the 4th millennium BC. We walk around the heavily protected area learning about the rich finds and discoveries made within the covered pits.

Pajikent Central Market

• From the 4th millennium, BC, we're brought back to the present as we journey back to Panjikent and visit its colourful local bazaar.  
• Panjakent Central Market is an absolute delight to wander around and soak up the local atmosphere, helped by the smell of freshly cooked Tajik bread.  
• Before we retire to our local guesthouse, we will head to a real showcase of a family home for our evening meal and some local entertainment.

Accommodation |  Sugd Hotel or similar

October 28 | Monday

Tajikistan - Uzbekistan

• Today, we’ll load up our trusty vehicles and make our way towards the Uzbek border. Our destination for today is the ancient city of Samarkand .  
• Uzbekistan Border Crossing | After passing through the border formalities, we’ll enter our fourth country on this adventure. Uzbekistan is home to some of the most incredible ancient cities in the region, and our first stop is one of the jewels in the crown.
• Perhaps there is no city associated more with the ancient Silk Road than Samarkand. The muse of poets and playwrights throughout history, Samarkand has an aura like no other.  
• Today, the city is split into the ancient and the modern, with the ancient districts still reminiscent of the days of merchants and traders, and the new part, a much more Soviet, functional affair.

Registan Square

• The Registan is an ensemble of majestic and stunningly beautiful madrassahs. The most incredible example of Islamic architecture.  
• The plaza would once have been dominated by a great bazaar, allowing local people to go about their business. Meanwhile, the surrounding madrassahs allow scholars to work and create a centre for Islamic scholars across Central Asia. Today, the Registan is the number one, must-see sight in the country, an unmissable experience!  
• Gur Emir | We will also make a stop at the mausoleum of Tamerlane, known as the Gur Emir. A national icon in Uzbekistan.

Accommodation |  Local 3* Hotel

October 29 | Tuesday

Samarkand - Tashkent

Shah-i-zinda.

• Our day will begin with a visit to a necropolis which graces the northern part of the city, Shah-i-Zinda. A fabulous example of traditional Islamic architecture in the region, comprising numerous buildings, towers and beautiful domed rooves.  
• The turquoise mosaic tiling contrasts against the arid sandy backdrop of Samarkand’s desert surroundings.  
• Bibi-Khanym Mosque | We’ll also visit the Bibi-Khanym Mosque. Once the largest in Central Asia.  
• Siab Baazar | We then break away from the ancient history to explore the local market, known as the Siab Baazar.  
• Whether you’re searching for textiles and fabrics, exquisite and intriguing foodstuffs, or just looking for an opportunity to rub shoulders with Samarkand’s locals – Siab Baazar is the place to visit.  
• The market is a great place to pick up souvenirs, clothes, snacks, and all manner of things, but it’s also an oddly peaceful and fun place to spend some time. Wander the aisles, chat with shoppers and market vendors, and experience life as it’s truly lived in this city.

Train to Tashkent

• After lunch, we’ll bid farewell to Samarkand as we head to the train station to catch a high-speed train from the city and head north. This journey will take around 3 hours to our destination, Tashkent. The capital of Uzbekistan.
• Since its near destruction during an earthquake in 1966, the city has been redeveloped. Initially, this was by the Soviet Union. Leaving an obvious trace of the USSR in its city planning.  
• Following the communist theme, our accommodation tonight will be the Hotel Uzbekistan. Hotel Uzbekistan was once the premiere hotel in the country for visiting dignitaries, government officials, and rare foreign tourists.

Accommodation |  Hotel Uzbekistan

October 30 | Wednesday

• This morning we’ll step out into the bustling city of Tashkent.

Tashkent City Tour 

• Amir Timur Square | Our day begins with a visit to Amir Timur Square at the heart of this vibrant capital. One of the main squares in Tashkent, Amir Timur is graced with a magnificent statue of Tamerlane, a medieval conqueror, on horseback.  
• Although Amir Timur is not the largest square in the city, the tree-lined pavements and bright green grass make it perfect for an evening stroll amidst the locals of Tashkent.  
• Bazaar | From here, we will spend some time in the beautifully domed chorus Bazaar. A great place to observe local life or buy those last-minute bargains. And another chance to chat with locals from the city, as well as support local independent businesses in Tashkent.  
• Tashkent Metro | No visit to Tashkent would be complete without first a ride on the Tashkent Metro. Built in the former USSR, it opened in 1977.  
• The metro network consists of three lines which crisscross beneath the streets of the city. This incredibly ornate metro system was opened in 1977 and has only grown in beauty since then. Not only is it an incredible tourist attraction in its own right, but you can use it to get between Tashkent’s other incredible above-ground sites!  
• Tashkent Metro is one of only two subway systems currently operating in Central Asia (the other one is the Almaty Metro).  
• Fine Arts Museum of Uzbekistan | Our last stop for the day will be the Fine Arts Museum of Uzbekistan. There are, of course, hundreds of museums across the Uzbek capital worth poking your head in. However, our favourite must be the State Fine Arts Museum. Home to thousands of artefacts from across Russia and Europe.  
• This Soviet-era museum holds many of the treasures confiscated from the Grand Duke Romanov, who himself likely stole them from St Petersburg. In addition, artwork from across Russia and the Soviet Union is displayed throughout this museum.  
• Finally, we’ll return to our Soviet hotel. From here, we’ll have a free evening. You’ll be able to wander the streets, find and try unusual delicacies, and meet local Tashkenters.

October 31 | Thursday

Uzbekistan's Northern Countryside

• Today, we’ll take a trip outside of the city to the Institute of Solar Physics. A huge series of mirrors that used to heat a large furnace.

Institute of Solar Physics

• The institute will open just for us, and run a test of the system to demonstrate the immense power of this Soviet-era megaproject.  
• Situated 45km outside the city, we’ll pass through some of Uzbekistan’s northern countryside. A far cry from the dry desert-like environment which dominates the rest of the country.  
• Upon arrival, we’ll witness the effect of these huge parabolic mirrors, heating the furnace to over 3000*C. We’ll also learn about the potential that exists for clean energy from this system, since the energy produced is completely clean, and could be put to work in the future for clean energy.  
• After our close call with the heat of the sun, we’ll head back into Tashkent for our final evening in the capital before returning to the heart of the country tomorrow.

November 1 | Friday

Tashkent - Bukhara

• After breakfast, we’ll head back to Tashkent’s magnificent railway station. We’ll board the high-speed train back towards the desert. Today, our destination is Bukhara, another ancient city that was once the heart of empires in the region.  
• After our 4-and-a-half-hour train journey, we’ll arrive at Bukhara train station and begin our adventure through the bustling streets of Bukhara.

Bukhara City Tour

• The city of Bukhara, along with nearby Samarkand, served as the heart of the Persian world for centuries under numerous empires. It continues today as Uzbekistan’s seventh-largest city. And one of its most popular attractions for foreign travellers, owing to its rich history as a Persian capital, and an outpost on the renowned Silk Road.  
• The modern city is home to dozens of architectural sites, uncovering the legacy of Persia, and the many mosques, minarets, and madrassahs it left behind. Many of these sites are visitable and make for a wonderful experience for any adventurer looking for a glimpse back into this city’s majestic past.  
• Ark of Bukhara | This afternoon we begin our exploration with a visit to the fantastic Ark of Bukhara.  The Ark of Bukhara citadel has stood defending the city from the 5th century until its final stand against the Red Army in 1920.  
• Bolo-Hauz Mosque | We make a short walk from the Ark to the Bolo-Hauz Mosque famed for its elegant wooden carvings, Built in 1712, it served as a Friday mosque during the time of the emir of Bukhara and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.  
• Ismail Samani Mausoleum | A short drive will take us to the Ismail Samani Mausoleum. Built in the 9th century, this mausoleum is an example of the excellent artistry of architects at this time.  
• The tomb is the final resting place of Ismail Samani, founder of the Samanid dynasty and the last true Persian king of the region.  
• Local Family Visit | Tonight we will sample some traditional food at the residence of a local family.

Accommodation |  3* Hotel or similar

Included Meals | Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

November 2nd | Saturday

• Today we’ll enjoy another day in the picturesque surroundings of Bukhara, exploring the ancient legacy of this stunning city. Our first stop of the day will be the magnificent Kalyan Minaret.

Kalyan Minaret

• Built in 1127, the Kalyan Minaret is all that survives of a once grandiose Djuma Mosque, designed for crowds of people to worship at once.  
• Today, the site has been rebuilt around the footprint of this great tower, now at the centre of a courtyard surrounded by galleries and stunning architecture. It’s from here that the ancient call to prayer would have blasted across the city, and many locals would have descended on the site.  
• It was actually built twice. Evidence suggests the soft ground led it to collapse after being nearly completed the first time. However, after almost a millennium, it shouldn’t fall again!

Khoja-Gaukushon

• Next, we’ll make our way to Khoja-Gaukushon. A great ensemble at the heart of the city, home to a mosque, madrassah, and minaret.  
• The area once served as a kind of plaza for local people to meet, trade, set up market stalls, and (rather oddly) slaughter animals. Hence the name ‘Gaukushon’ which means ‘Slaughter of Bulls’.  
• Later, a large minaret, mosque, and madrassah were built on the site, adding to the great patchwork of beautiful buildings littered across the skyline of Bukhara.

Mausoleum of Naqshbandi

• Finally, we’ll wrap up with the Mausoleum of Naqshbandi and the summer residence of the last Emir of Bukhara which sits a few kilometres outside the city itself.  
• The mausoleum is a place of pilgrimage for many Sufis and a place of incredible beauty. And the summer palace is known as ‘the place where the moon meets the stars.  
• Free Time | Finally, we’ll return to the city for a free evening to explore, discover and marvel at this ancient city.

November 3 | Sunday

Uzbekistan - Turkmenistan

• This morning, we’ll depart Bukhara and make our way south towards the river that marks the border between Uzbekistan and Turkmenistan.  
• Turkmenistan Border Crossing | We’ll make our crossing into our fifth and final country, Turkmenistan. However, our adventure is far from over.

Turkmenabat

• We’ll head down to Turkmenabat, the border city on the Turkmen side of the river. Then, we continue our adventure south to Ancient Merv.

Ancient Merv

• Merv was once one of the most important cities in the world at certain times of its history.  
• This ancient site is now a place where you will learn a great deal about the history of Central Asia. The rise and fall of dynasties and cities, the Silk Road, and human civilisation in this part of the world. Animals, travellers and archaeologists now roam the existing buildings, ruins, etc. All contribute to a sense of the dynamism of the ancient Silk Road.
• Finally, we’ll make our way to the nearby city of Mary . Here, we’ll bed down for the night and prepare for the Turkmen adventure which lies ahead!

Accommodation |  Mary Hotel

November 4 | Monday

• Domestic Flight to Ashgabat | Departing Mary, we’ll board a flight from this relatively small city to the nation’s capital. A city coated entirely in white marble.

Ashgabat City Tour

• Independence Park and Independence Monument | Arriving in Ashgabat , our first stop is Independence Park and Independence Monument. These were constructed to celebrate the independence of Turkmenistan on the 27th of October 1991.  
• As well as the memorial, the park is home to an impressive array of statues of characters from Turkmen history.  
• Monument of Neutrality | From Independence to Neutrality, we go! Our next visit is the Monument of Neutrality built in 1998; a gold statue of Turkmenbashi tops this impressive structure.  
• Bake Turkmen Pies | For today's lunch, we’ll visit a local restaurant, which will give us a tutorial and the opportunity to bake some local Turkmen pies. If it's not for you, don't worry. You'll be able to relax while your meal is cooked for you.  
• Earthquake Monument and Museum | We hope you’re not too tired of statues just yet as we have a few more to go! Next up, is the Earthquake Monument and Museum.  
• A grim reminder of the terrible earthquake that struck Ashgabat in 1948, killing 110,00 people and levelling the city. Both are tastefully presented and very educational.

Ashgabat Architecture

• On our way back to the hotel, we will pass a few of Ashgabat’s more unusual buildings, The Ministry of Gas is shaped like a giant cigarette lighter, The Ministry of Foreign Affairs is shaped like a globe, and our personal favourite, The Ashgabat Dental Hospital is shaped like a massive tooth!  
• Free Time | Once we have returned to the hotel, you are free to continue exploring Ashgabat or enjoy some well-deserved rest.

Accommodation |  Sport Hotel

November 5 | Tuesday

Turkmen Desert & Darvaza Gas Crater

• This morning there is a bit of free time for relaxing or shopping for supplies, which may be useful as later today we’re off into the desert.
• Our first stop is the small desert village of Bokhurdag. It is here that we stop to sample the local cuisine and learn a little more about living outside the bright lights of Turkmenistan’s flamboyant capital.

Desert Trip (Mining History)

• Once our journey resumes, we’ll continue stopping as we travel to see other examples of the desert’s mining history, visiting two other craters (one filled with water, the other with mud). A perfect pretext for the great Darvaza Gas Crater.

The Darvaza Gas Crater

• The incredible Darvaza Gas Crater , continuously burning since 1971, was created when Soviet engineers were drilling what they thought were vast oil fields. No oil was found, and the fields turned out to be rich in gas, evident when the drilling rig at Darvaza hit a void and collapsed in on itself.  
• Sometime later it’s believed that the escaping gas was set alight to prevent methane from polluting a nearby village.  
• Here we are all these years later, and the gas crater has now become one of the world’s most unusual tourist attractions.  
• We’ll arrive during daylight hours to observe the transition from light to dark as the night sky becomes illuminated by the flickering blaze of the crater.

Darvaza Gas Crater Camping

• Turkmen BBQ | Camping next to this burning void, we will enjoy a delicious Turkmen BBQ prepared by our local crew

Accommodation |  Camping

November 6 | Wednesday

Ashgabat & Erbent

• Today we’ll pack up and head back to Ashgabat.  
• After lunch, before heading back towards the capital, we will make a stop at the village of Erbent.

Village of Erbent

• Erbent is similar to most of the surrounding desert settlements. However, it is here that the Monument to the Basmachi Revolution is located.  
• The Basmachi Revolutionary Monument | The Basmachi Revolutionary Monument   was built here as this area was a Basmachi stronghold during the 1920s. The Basmachi were an Islamic group fighting the occupying Soviet forces.  
• Upon arrival back in the capital city, the rest of the day is yours to enjoy. You’re welcome to spend this free day however you please – exploring, shopping, or even just resting before the adventure continues tomorrow!

November 7 | Thursday

• Our final day on tour begins with a relaxed walking tour of the city, a chance to unwind and catch a few of the things we didn’t get to during our last day in this odd marble city.
• Tekke Bazaar | We’ll start with a walk through the Tekke Bazaar. A real, local slice of life, a true local market very popular amongst local people for shopping. On weekends, there are also local booksellers in the park opposite the market selling a selection of second-hand books.  
• If you're lucky, you may pick up a copy of the Ruhnama the book written by Saparmurat Niyazov, the Turkmenistan president. Niyazov famously said, "A person that reads Ruhnama three times becomes smart, and after it, he will go straight to heaven".  
• Inspiration Park | Next up, we’ll visit Inspiration Park. A public park at the centre of Ashgabat this narrow parkland is lined with sculptures of Persian poets, scholars and great thinkers. All surrounding an artificial river and impressive water fountains.  
• The Russian Bazaar | Following this, another market! The Russian Bazaar is located in the very centre of town. This covered bazaar is where you can buy almost everything you may need in daily life; fruit & nuts, cables & chargers, sweets, kimchi, baked goods, souvenirs, and so on.  
• Nearby is also the Alty Asyr Shopping Centre which is a good place to buy cotton goods (tracksuits, towels, bedsheets, etc. all made from local cotton, and all very cheap).  
• Lenin Statue | We’ll stop by the local Lenin statue, best described as a small Lenin on a giant plinth decorated in central Asian tile work, followed by a visit to the Pushkin Monument.  
• Pushkin Monument | This small bust erected for Russia's most famous poet Pushkin is easily visited only 5 minutes from Lenin. And, nearby our next stop - Pervyy Park.  
• Pevvy Park | This park is one of Ashgabat's oldest parks founded in 1890 named Officer Park, Lenin Park, First Park and Independence Park.  
• Ashgabat Train Station | Finally, we’ll visit Ashgabat Train Station. Originally built in 1888, the first railway station was destroyed in the earthquake of 1948 along with much of the city.  
• A new station was built shortly after in 1950. Although, this was remodelled in 2009 taking on its now grand form crowned by the eight-pointed star (Rub El Hizb).
• As our walking tour draws to a close, you’ll have the rest of the day free to enjoy. This is our last day on our epic 3-week adventure, so perhaps explore the city some more, pick up souvenirs, try new foods, or just relax for the afternoon.  
• We’ll end the day with a group meal, a chance to say farewell and to reminisce about our adventures together.

November 8 | Friday

End of Tour

Airport transfers are available to all travellers from our group hotel to Ashgabat International Airport, no matter your time of departure.

For independent extensions, contact your tour leader.

• Guides & Drivers
• All Meals Where Listed
• Regional Flights
• Turkmenistan Visa (LOI)
• All Vehicles & Transport
• Entrance Fees
• Visas (other than Turkmenistan)
• Pre/Post Tour International Flights
• Snacks/Alcoholic Drinks
• Travel Insurance

October 28 - November 6 2024

Uzbekistan and Karakalpakstan Adventure Tour

Explore the heart of Central Asia, Uzbekistan!

We follow the ancient Silk Road to remote, fascinating Karakalpakstan, where the shrinking Aral Sea has become the world’s youngest desert, and a treasure trove of art awaits. From 2670 USD per person

Please apply by 1st July, 2024 .

This tour is managed by...

Rich Beal is our International Tours Manager.

Rich is  one of our most experienced tour leaders . He has led tours worldwide since 2004, specialising in Mongolia , Tajikistan , Turkmenistan , and the surrounding area. Currently living in Mongolia , he leads multiple specialised trips annually and has over 20 years of experience running and designing tours of the region. 

Join experts in Central Asian travel, Koryo Tours, on our inaugural Uzbekistan tour. Enjoy the blockbuster sights of Uzbekistan, the heart of the Silk Road... And explore its hidden treasures, too!

Tempted by the Golden Road to Samarkand ? Uzbekistan’s highlights have drawn travellers for centuries. From the showstoppers in Tamerlane’s blue-domed capital to Holy Bukhara , where the sky-scraping Tower of Death so impressed Genghis Khan he spared it from the city-wide orgy of destruction.

Uzbekistan boasts many more survivors against the odds. On this Uzbekistan tour, we voyage into the remote northwest, Karakalpakstan , where trawlers lie beached far from the tragic Aral Sea. Here, we will see spell-binding paintings saved from Soviet authorities who had killed some of the artists.

This Uzbekistan tour, taking you by road , rail and air , will unlock amazing human survival stories. On a collective farm outside Tashkent, we’ll learn about the Koreans deported here en masse from the Soviet Far East. Some ended up Heroes of Socialist Labour as they grew the best rice for plov, the Uzbek pride and joy, and embodied the spirit of internationalism.

An Uzbekistan Tour like no other. Relish the oasis cities of Samarkand, Bukhara and Khiva. And discover Soviet thrills like a top-secret solar furnace built, surely, for a Bond villain...

Scroll down for an overview of the Uzbekistan and Karakalpakstan Tour highlights, tour itinerary, transport options, Uzbekistan visa information, and extra add-ons. Nick Bonner and Calum MacLeod will accompany this tour.

Looking to see more? Our Turkmenistan & Uzbekistan Adventure Tour  offers you the chance to experience two incredible stans in one tour! 

More Central Asia Tours

Guest lecturer: calum macleod.

Calum explored Uzbekistan in 1992, the first year of independence. He has been returning ever since to enjoy more of its cultural and natural treasures. He co-wrote the first dedicated guidebook to Uzbekistan in English (Odyssey, with Bradley Mayhew) and has designed Koryo’s inaugural tour.

Calum worked as China correspondent for The Times and The Independent, and Asia correspondent for USA Today. But says nothing beats a round of shashlik kebabs, on a plate of warm naan bread, at an Uzbek bazaar. ✍️  A Night Train to North Korea; Hop Aboard the First-Ever Koryo Tour (1993) .

Images ©Calum MacLeod.

• Ships’ graveyard in Muynak, a fishing port deserted by the Aral Sea.
• Walk the walls of Khiva, the most intact Silk Road city and see Samarkand’s 'Street of the Dead', a ceramic celebration.
• The ultimate hall of mirrors – a massive, Soviet solar furnace.

Day 1 of 10

Monday 28th October

Arrival Day

• Flights to Tashkent (airport code TAS). Arrive from many international destinations. Let us know which flight you will be on, and we will arrange your pick-up and transfer to the hotel. Arriving even earlier is, of course, fine and can be accommodated.  
• Today we start the tour with a group dinner of excellent local food, coordination and a briefing session, before the adventure ahead!

Meals | Dinner Overnight | Tashkent

Tuesday 29th October

Tashkent and Parkent – Peeling back Uzbekistan’s multilayered capital.

• Polar Star Collective Farm.  We head south to explore the fascinating story and enduring legacy of the Korean people in Central Asia, forced here by Stalin from the Soviet Far East in 1937. The museum at this former kolkhoz commemorates Kim Pen Hwa, who led farmers in transforming marshland, winning a record haul of Socialist Labour Hero medals, raising football stars and changing public sentiment.  
• Institute of the Sun.  Bond villain lair! Next, we travel east through the Parkent wine country to the foothills of the Tien Shan Mountains and the formerly off-limits Institute of the Sun. This giant solar furnace, one of only two worldwide, was a top-secret military installation fired by 12,000 mirrors. Melting experiments continue today…so mind your step.  
• Evening – Transfer to Tashkent airport for evening flight to Nukus, capital of Karakalpakstan.

Meals | Breakfast and Lunch Overnight | Nukus

Wednesday 30th October

• Nukus and Muynak.  The “Land of Black Hats”, deserts and drama, Karakalpakstan is the Stan within a Stan, a (nominally) autonomous republic that occupies over one-third of Uzbekistan’s land and hides many Soviet secrets – including a bioweapons island on the Aral Sea.  
• Mizdakhan Cemetery.  For legends, ladders and star-crossed lovers, we join local pilgrims at hilltop Mizdahkan, the oldest active necropolis in Central Asia. Highlights include the cool beauty of the Mazlumkhan Sulu mausoleum, where bow-tie tiles reflect the citadel’s first, fire-worshipping faith, Zoroastrianism. At the legendary tomb of Adam, better known as a world clock, visitors pile up seven bricks to delay doomsday.  
• Aral Sea Ship Graveyard.  We travel by road to Muynak, the fishing port and holiday town abandoned by the sea. Trawlers rust below a lighthouse on a dry, toxic seabed now over 100km from the shoreline. Two museums illustrate one of the world’s worst ecological disasters: the Aral has shrunk by 90% thanks to thirsty cotton farming.

Thursday 31st October

Nukus and Khorezm – a day packed with fabulous art and desert forts.

This trip to Karakalpakstan will be fulfilling a decades-long dream of Koryo Tours' co-founder and CEO, Nick Bonner to visit the stunning 'lost' avant-garde art at the Savitsky Museum.

• Igor Savitsky Art Museum . The remoteness of Karakalpakstan helped canny collector Savitskiy (1915-84) save from oblivion what’s become the region’s top attraction. He rescued the twilight zone of the Russian avant-garde by squirrelling paintings away in his adopted home Nukus. Highlights include Yevgeny Lysenko’s The Bull, with its shotgun eyes, and sketches on food wrappers of her seven gulag years by Nadezhda Borovaya – Savitsky fooled officials by saying they depicted Nazi concentration camps.  
• The Egypt of Central Asia . We make the overland transfer to Khiva by exploring the clay fortresses (kala) that protected the “lost” civilisation of ancient Chorasmia (Khorezm). From the 4th century BC to the 3rd century AD, its people worshipped at Zoroastrian fire temples, traded widely, painted graceful murals, studied the stars and loved their wine. Our stops will include a clamber up the Chilpik Dakhma, a Tower of Silence where birds of prey picked clean the departed.

Meals | Breakfast and Lunch Overnight | Khiva

Friday 1st November

• This walled wonder remains so intact you can still believe, like a visitor in 1873, that it’s no “real city, but a leaf torn from the enchanted pages of the Arabian Nights.”  
• Minarets, madrasahs, mausolea and more . Our walking tour enters Khiva’s UNESCO-listed inner city through the West Gate. The Kalta Minaret, the first of several outstanding towers, stayed “Short” when Bukhara’s jealous emir enticed the architect away mid-project (legend has it).  
• Muhammad Rahim Khan Madrasah.  The city’s last grand madrasah (Islamic college), built by the reformist ruler better known as poet Feruz. Meet his waxwork in the history museum here – and watch out for circus acts.  
• Pakhlavan Mahmoud Mausoleum . “Will I be remembered over my ashes?” runs a poem above the tombstone of Khiva’s wrestler-saint. Seven centuries later, join the crowds of pilgrims answering his question.  
• The Juma (Friday) Mosque. This offers a cool retreat from the bright desert heat. Over 200 wooden pillars are carved with symbols stretching back into Khorezm’s Zoroastrian roots.  
• Grab a bike to roam the outer city, including the dilapidated charm of Islam Khodja’s summer retreat. Feruz’s modernising prime minister received Russian and other ambassadors in its beautiful reception halls.

Saturday 2nd November

Khiva to Bukhara

• Cross Kyzyl Kum (Red Sands).  Today, it is time to cross the vast Kyzyl Kum, the biggest desert plain in Central Asia at around 300,000 square kilometres. Silk Road traders battled the elements for centuries. Miners dig for them at remote gold and uranium towns Zarafshan and Uchkuduk. The Kyzyl Kum stretches the width of Uzbekistan here between the region's two major rivers.  
• The Syr Darya to the north (the Jaxartes to the ancients) long marked the boundary between the nomadic steppe and settled civilisations. The Amu Darya (Oxus) to the south separates the Kyzyl Kum from the Kara Kum (Black Sands) desert of Turkmenistan and long divided the Persian and Turkic worlds. At the journey’s end, we enter Bukhara, which beautifully combines these elements and more.

Meals | Breakfast and Lunch Overnight | Bukhara

Sunday 3rd November

• Everywhere else, it was said, light shone down from heaven. In Holy Bukhara, the light shone up.  
• Lyabi-Hauz ensemble . We stay in a nearby boutique hotel, so this atmospheric square forms your hub too as it’s long been for Bukharans drawn by the mulberry-tree shaded pool (hauz), teahouses and madrasah, now packed with tempting handicrafts.  
• Trading places. Our city walk follows the network of 16th-century domed bazaars, including the Cap Makers, Jewellers and Money Changers, that fuelled Bukhara’s second golden age – and still offer great shopping.  
• Kalon Minaret. Bukhara’s world-beating “Great” Minaret is an 11th-century masterpiece and lighthouse for trade caravans seeking oasis refuge. It was dubbed the Tower of Death for the criminals, sewn into sacks, and tossed from the top on market days.  
• Ismail Samani Mausoleum. The sands of time hid this brilliant brick cube, packed with symbolism, from the Mongol war machine. Its builder (849-907) ushered in a golden age when Central Asia’s scientists and writers led the world.  
• Backstreet delights. We have a wealth of recommendations to reward the curious. 

Monday 4th November

Bukhara to Samarkand

• Royal Road. Today, we   take the Royal Road, an ancient caravan route linking the foremost cities of Transoxiana.  
• Gijduvan . After the towering Vabkent Minaret, we pause in Gijduvan where the tomb of Khoja Abdulkhaliq Gijduvani (1103–79) draws the faithful on the Bukhara pilgrimage circuit of Seven Sufi Saints.  
• The town is also famous for master potters such as brothers Abdullo and Alisher Narzullaev, who craft traditional floral designs of local browns and yellows with unique colour glazing fired in huge tandyr kilns. Further east, we stop at two 11th-century survivors: the intriguing, nine-domed Deggoroniy Mosque and the Rabati Malik caravanserai, a Silk Road service station.

Meals | Breakfast and Lunch Overnight | Samarkand

Tuesday 5th November

• Follow in the footsteps of giants to savour the Mirror of the World.  
• Gur Emir Mausoleum . From peerless blue dome to epic occupant, the “Tomb of the Ruler” has it all, although he’d planned a simpler resting place. Amir Timur (Tamerlane, 1336-1405) was the last nomadic conqueror to shake the world, from Russia to India.  
• Registan ensemble . The crossroads of Tamerlane’s capital, where six arteries met under a domed bazaar, bloomed into Samarkand’s stunning centrepiece after grandson Ulug Beg, the astronomer-king, built his beautiful madrasah (Islamic college). Two more, two centuries later, complete the most photographed sight on the Silk Road.  
• Shah-i-Zinda necropolis . Climb the Staircase of Sinners to enter the street of the dead, the city’s holiest site. Timurid family tombs from the 14th century showcase an unrivalled celebration of ceramic art in turquoise blues and floral motifs.  
• Tomb of Daniel . Yes, of the lions’ den. Tamerlane brought the saint’s remains to Samarkand where they grew each year, so the grave was enlarged into today’s super-sized sarcophagus. Join pilgrims here from all three major Abrahamic religions: Judaism, Christianity and Islam.  
• Kalontarov mansion. On former Soviet Street, in the UNESCO-protected European town, explore the eclectic home of Jewish merchant Abram Kalontarov. He hoped to entertain Tsar Nicholas II, but instead had to house the Central Committee of the Uzbek Communist Party from 1925-30.

Wednesday 6th November

Samarkand to Tashkent

• Transfer by fast Afrosiyob train to Tashkent.  
• If time allows before your flight, ride the jaw-dropping metro to imposing squares, monumental buildings and fine museums. No longer demolishing Soviet cultural heritage, the capital now celebrates its architecture as Tashkent Modernism.  
• Afternoon - Transfer to the airport. Departure.

End of tour. 

Meals | Breakfast and Lunch

• English-speaking local guides
• Western tour leader (Nick Bonner) & Uzbek expert (Calum MacLeod)
• Meals where indicated
• Internal flights
• Internal trains
• All included sightseeing
• All entrance fees where required
• Airport transfers
• An amazing time in two Stans!
• Tips for local guides and drivers
• Incidentals, extra drinks, etc
• Optional single supplement: USD 50 per night
• Visa fee - depending on nationality. Most Western nationalities do not need visas to visit Uzbekistan. Please do check first to be sure (see below)
• International flights to and from Tashkent

Upgrade to your own room in Uzbekistan

All hotel rooms on our all-inclusive group tours to Uzbekistan feature twin beds, and will be shared. If you'd like a room to yourself, you can upgrade for an extra USD 50 per night.

How to Apply

To apply, simply click on the application button listed with this tour.

Fill out the online form, upload a passport copy and photo (or send it to us by email, if you prefer) and you can consider yourself to be booked on this adventure!

For any questions, comments, etc about this trip get in touch with Nick Bonner at  [email protected] . We ask for applications to be completed a minimum of one month in advance of the tour. Ideally, at least six weeks or more if possible. Please also indicate where you plan to join the tour from and where you’re headed after the tour. We can offer advice on this. We also require a deposit to be paid at this time as we start taking on administrative costs as well as an obligation to pay for the visa invitation as soon as we send off an application.

We ask for a deposit of 50% of the tour fee.

Please note that if you require a visa for Uzbekistan you will need to pay this fee yourself. Most visitors do not require visas. Check here for more information. 

Cancellation & Refunds

We practice the same cancellation policy with this tour as we do with our DPRK tours. This is listed on our website T&C. We do not seek profit from people who cannot go on tours, but we do make arrangements and commit to payments in good faith once a booking is received and payment is made. So we always try to refund more than the minimum.

As with any trip, it is best to be as sure as possible that you will be able to attend the trip when making the final booking. If the tour is cancelled by Koryo Tours for any reason, then a full refund is of course made. In all cases, we return as much as we can. We do not charge a fee for a client's cancellation.

Please be sure that you will be joining the tour when you send all application details.

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• Uzbekistan Tours

Uzbekistan Tours and Trips 2024/2025

Uzbekistan is the jewel in the ancient Silk Road’s crown. Each of its major cities have been beautifully restored, offering gorgeous sights for visitors. Tashkent has interesting museums and great sightseeing tours, while Samarkand is best known for its cultural, religious and historic sites (particularly its gorgeous mosques) and food tours. Meanwhile, Bukhara ’s bazaars and palaces are best explored by foot with a walking tour.

• Uzbekistan Travel Guide
• Best Time to Visit Uzbekistan

28 Trips in Uzbekistan with 169 Reviews

• Starts Tashkent, Uzbekistan
• Ends Tashkent, Uzbekistan

Uzbekistan Uncovered

• Best price guaranteed
• No booking fees
• Tour Type Small Group Tour
• Activities Cultural, religious and historic sites
• Accommodation Hotel, Tent & Guest House
• Transport Flight & Train
• Age Range 16-99 yrs
• Operated in English
• Brochure Price: US$ 2,998
• Special Deal (13%): - US$ 403
• Total Price from: US$ 2,595
• Sep 07 Only 7 seats left
• Sep 28 Only 5 seats left
• View More Jan 1, 2019 Jan 2, 2019 Jan 3, 2019

Highlights of Uzbekistan

• Activities Art and architecture & City sightseeing Art and architecture , City sightseeing & Cultural, religious and historic sites 'data-more-tripid='4575'>+1 more
• Accommodation Hotel & Guest House
• Transport Private Vehicle & Flight
• Age Range 12-95 yrs
• Brochure Price: US$ 1,529
• Special Deal (25%): - US$ 383
• Total Price from: US$ 1,146
• Jun 19 Only 7 seats left
• Jun 21 Only 1 seat left

The Silk Road of Uzbekistan

• Activities Active and outdoor & Explorer Active and outdoor , Explorer & Cultural, religious and historic sites 'data-more-tripid='17429'>+1 more
• Accommodation Hotel, Tent, Guest House & Camping
• Transport Train, Bus & Flight
• Age Range 16-95 yrs
• Brochure Price: US$ 2,540
• Special Deal (11%): - US$ 270
• Total Price from: US$ 2,270
• Jun 08 10+ seats left
• Sep 14 Only 8 seats left

Premium Uzbekistan

• Activities Luxury & Cultural, religious and historic sites
• Accommodation Hotel
• Transport Flight, Private Vehicle & Train
• Age Range 15-99 yrs
• Brochure Price: US$ 2,755
• Special Deal (15%): - US$ 413
• Total Price from: US$ 2,342
• Jun 16 Only 4 seats left
• Jun 23 Only 7 seats left

Uzbekistan Adventure

• Activities Adventure
• Accommodation Hotel & Home-stay
• Transport Train & Private Vehicle
• Brochure Price: US$ 1,890
• Special Deal (10%): - US$ 189
• Total Price from: US$ 1,701
• Jun 26 Only 7 seats left
• Aug 21 Only 3 seats left

• Starts Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan
• Ends Bukhara, Uzbekistan

The Silk Road

• Activities Cultural, religious and historic sites & Trekking and Hiking
• Accommodation Hotel, Guest House & Sleeper Train
• Transport Train & Sleeper Train
• Brochure Price: US$ 4,723
• Special Deal (14%): - US$ 673
• Total Price from: US$ 4,050
• Aug 22 Only 5 seats left
• Aug 29 Only 6 seats left

Uzbekistan by Bike

• Activities Bicycle tours
• Accommodation Hotel, Home-stay & Guest House
• Transport Bus
• Age Range 18-99 yrs
• Sep 18 10+ seats left
• May 04 10+ seats left

• Ends Ashgabat, Turkmenistan

Best of Uzbekistan and Turkmenistan

• Activities Cultural, religious and historic sites & Art and architecture
• Accommodation Hotel, Camping & Guest House
• Transport Private Vehicle
• Brochure Price: US$ 2,799
• Special Deal (15%): - US$ 420
• Total Price from: US$ 2,379
• Jun 28 Only 2 seats left

The Silk Road of Kyrgyzstan and Uzbekistan

• Activities Active and outdoor & Walking tours Active and outdoor , Walking tours , Cultural, religious and historic sites & Natural landmarks sightseeing 'data-more-tripid='17290'>+2 more
• Accommodation Guest House, Hotel, Hut, Camping & Resort
• Transport Bus, Flight, 4WD Jeep & Train
• Brochure Price: US$ 5,380
• Special Deal (10%): - US$ 540
• Total Price from: US$ 4,840
• Sep 02 Only 8 seats left
• Sep 09 Only 8 seats left

Best of Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan

• Activities City sightseeing & Cultural, religious and historic sites City sightseeing , Cultural, religious and historic sites , Museum and gallery visits & Natural landmarks sightseeing 'data-more-tripid='16812'>+2 more
• Accommodation Hotel, Guest House & Home-stay
• Transport Private Vehicle, Flight & 4WD Jeep
• Brochure Price: US$ 2,899
• Special Deal (20%): - US$ 580
• Total Price from: US$ 2,319
• Jun 20 Only 2 seats left
• Jun 22 Only 1 seat left

Central Asia Explorer

• Activities City sightseeing & Cultural, religious and historic sites City sightseeing , Cultural, religious and historic sites , Museum and gallery visits & Classes and workshops 'data-more-tripid='3391'>+2 more
• Transport Train & Bus
• Jul 30 Only 1 seat left
• Aug 09 Only 6 seats left

• Starts Beijing, China

Silk Road to Samarkand via Kashgar

• Transport Train, Private Vehicle, Flight, Boat, Bus, Bullet Train & Sleeper Train
• Sep 07 10+ seats left
• Oct 12 10+ seats left

Multi-Stan Adventure - Bishkek to Tashkent

• Activities City sightseeing & Cultural, religious and historic sites City sightseeing , Cultural, religious and historic sites , Museum and gallery visits , Natural landmarks sightseeing & Local culture 'data-more-tripid='16832'>+3 more
• Transport Flight, Private Vehicle, 4WD Jeep & Train
• Brochure Price: US$ 4,649
• Special Deal (25%): - US$ 1,163
• Total Price from: US$ 3,486

• Starts Ashgabat, Turkmenistan

Wonders of the Silk Road

• Activities Cultural, religious and historic sites & City sightseeing
• Brochure Price: US$ 3,230
• Special Deal (7%): - US$ 210
• Total Price from: US$ 3,020
• Sep 14 10+ seats left

Traveling to Uzbekistan? Chat with a local travel specialist in Uzbekistan who can help organize your trip.

Uzbekistan Tour Reviews

Uzbekistan - tour highlights and travel tips.

A trip to Uzbekistan will introduce you to the best treasures of the ancient trading Silk Road. The cities of Khiva, Bukhara and Samarkand were all popular sites for traders and have each been delicately restored.These stunning mosques and mosaics are complimented by classic Russian architecture, as the country equally pays homage to its many years under Soviet rule. With few foreign tourists, get ready for an intimate visit through Uzbekistan’s wonders.

Tour Highlights

• Get a panoramic view of old Khiva from the minaret of the Islam Khodja mosque
• See the colourful mosaics of the Registan plaza in Samarkand
• Roam through the 114 rooms of Khan's Palace in Kokand
• Explore the Ark of Bukhara, an incredible fortress built in the 5th century AD
• Shop beneath the blue dome of the Chorsu Bazaar

Travel Tips

• Uzbekistan offers some great transportation links for anyone wanting to see all the country has to offer. Whether you prefer domestic flights, high-speed trains, or city metro-rides, Uzbekistan has it all.
• While most of Uzbekistan's cuisine is quite flavourless (think boiled vegetables and grey meats), some dishes are worth seeking out. Try Lagman, a lamb soup with thick noodles and spices, and jiz, a stir-fry-like dish of beef, onion and eggplant.
• Avoid border areas in Uzbekistan, particularly at its shared borders with Afghanistan. These areas are often riddled with landmines and have been known to incur cross-border gunfire.
• Uzbekistan relies heavily on cash. Be sure to exchange your money before you visit, and carry the local currency (Uzbek Sum) rather than U.S. dollars or other foreign currencies.
• Uzbekistan is a police state, so be prepared for heavy police presence across the country. Carry copies of your passport and other ID with you at all times, and think twice before taking photos (especially of important buildings). The main benefit of this is a relatively low crime rate.

Uzbekistan has seasonal weather so please do check up on best time to visit Uzbekistan before planning your tour.

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A Cultural Odyssey from Samarkand to Khiva

Ultimate uzbekistan.

From $5,695

Call 1-800-368-2794 or contact us for any questions

Join our Trip Leader extraordinaire Hashmat Singh to discover Uzbekistan's legendary Silk Road settings, including the majestic architectural ensemble of Samarkand's 15th century Registan Square, the atmospheric bazaars of Bukhara, and the lost-in-time city of Khiva, a sand-colored mirage in the desert. Along the way, we'll sip tea in chaikhanas (teahouses), meet traditional artisans, and roam the bustling markets. Mid-trip, we'll take a two-day break from city life at a village guesthouse in the Nurata Mountains, with time to stretch our legs on hill walks and enjoy a cooking class. The mixture of Silk Road heritage, Soviet legacy, and distinctive Uzbek culture in this fabled land is fascinating, and the welcome is truly heartfelt.

Arrive: Tashkent, Uzbekistan

Depart: Tashkent, Uzbekistan

• Explore Samarkand's Registan Square, a masterpiece of medieval Islamic architecture
• Visit the markets and hammams of Bukhara, walk the lanes of the walled city of Khiva
• Enjoy the peaceful Nurata Mountains for country walks and a taste of village life
• Sip tea in historic chaikhanas (teahouses), meet artisans, hear traditional Uzbek music
• Stay in well-located boutique hotels in Samarkand, Bukhara, and Khiva

We visit Tashkent, the country's modern metropolis, then fly to off-the-beaten-path Termez in southernmost Uzbekistan to discover its unique Buddhist archaeological treasures, including UNESCO-listed Fayaz-Tepe, an ancient rock-cut monastery.

The celebrated city of Samarkand has been conquered, destroyed, and rebuilt by the likes of Alexander the Great and Genghis Khan. Our explorations here include the glorious Registan, the city's dazzling 15th century public square, with its remarkable ensemble of tiled madrasas, and a walk down the Sha-i-Zinda, an avenue of tiled mausoleums with some of the most amazing tilework in the Muslim world.

Dates & Pricing

Pricing below is per person and based on double occupancy. The earlier you book, the more choice you’ll have. WT also has the most generous cancellation and transfer policies in the industry, we make it easy if you change your mind. Have a small group of your own? Take over an existing date or choose your own. You’ll have your own private guide–and the adventure–all to yourselves!

Payment & Cancel Schedule

At time of reservation: $600 90 days prior to departure: Balance

Cancellation & Transfer Schedule

Up to 91 days prior to departure: No Charge! 61-90 days prior to departure: 25% of trip cost 46-60 days prior to departure: 50% of trip cost 45 days or less: 100% of trip cost

• Expert leadership of a Wilderness Travel Trip Leader and local guides
• Accommodations in comfortable hotels and guesthouses (this includes the hotel on Day 0)
• All ground transportation and baggage handling from meeting until departure
• All activities as indicated in Detailed Itinerary

Not Included

• Travel to and from the arrival and departure location as indicated in Detailed Itinerary
• Additional hotel nights outside the trip's scheduled dates
• Optional gratuities to Trip Leaders or staff
• Optional travel insurance
• Other expenses of a personal nature (some alcoholic beverages, laundry, etc.)

Accommodations

Scroll through our signature accommodations for this trip below. Although it is highly unlikely, we may make substitutions when necessary.

Meridian Hotel

Termez, Uzbekistan

Days 1-2 (2 nights)

Sangzor Boutique Hotel

Days 3-5 (3 nights)

Elmurat's Guesthouse

Nurata Mountains, Uzbekistan

Days 6-7 (2 nights)

As-Salam Boutique Hotel

Bukhara, Uzbekistan

Days 8-9 (2 nights)

The family-run As-Salam Boutique Hotel is located in Bukhara's UNESCO-listed Old Town, just a five-minute walk from the famous mosques and madrasas. It offers guest rooms with modern comforts, a traditional interior courtyard, air conditioning, friendly service, and a home-cooked breakfast served on the terrace.

Malika Kheivak Hotel

Khiva, Uzbekistan

Days 10-11 (2 nights)

Lotte City Hotel Tashkent Palace

Tashkent, Uzbekistan

Day 12 (1 night)

Trip Leaders

Wilderness Travel Trip Leaders have a passion and a joy for creating an unforgettable journey. We are extremely proud of them and the incredible travel experiences they make possible. For more information, including client comments about them and which specific trips they will be leading, please click on their profiles below.

Hashmat Singh

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Book your trip today

Our Area Specialists know every detail about our tours. They will be happy to answer any questions and help you choose the journey that’s right for you. Contact us to learn more or book your trip today!

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Trip Levels

With more than 200 different adventures to choose from, we want to help you find the trip that’s right for you. Our Trip Level system ranks each trip in two ways: a number rating from 1 to 6 according to the activity, and general travel rigors. 1 is the easiest and 6+ the most difficult—see descriptions below for explanations of each number. A plus (+) sign means the trip is a bit more strenuous than other trips of that level. The detailed explanation of each trip—below the bar with the number rating—is perhaps more important, specifying activities, altitudes, hiking, and travel conditions. The Detailed Itinerary, available by download or mail, gives further information. Our Area Managers can also answer questions and guide you to the trip that best suits your interests.

Level 1 – Easiest

Non-camping journeys, optional walks, little elevation gain or loss.

• Royal Rajasthan and Villages of India
• Small ship cruises

Level 2 – Easy to Moderate

Hotel nights and/or safari-style camping, hikes of two to four hours on some days. Other physical activities are sometimes included, such as optional sea kayaking.

• Our African safaris
• Costa Rica Wildlife

Level 3 – Moderate

Half- to full-day hikes (3-6 hours) over rolling countryside on most days, occasional steep trails. Many of our hotel-based walking tours are in this category, as are our snorkeling adventures.

• Tuscany & the Cinque Terre
• Argentina: Hikes and Estancias of Patagonia
• Palau Snorkeling & Sea Kayaking
• Some trips with minimal hiking but rugged travel conditions or long drives, such as  Tribal Ghana, Togo & Benin,  are Trip Level 3.

Level 4 – Moderate to Strenuous

Full-day hikes (4-6 hours), mountainous terrain, significant elevation gains and losses (hiking up or down as much as 3,000 feet) on many days. Altitudes no greater than about 10,000 feet.

• Ultimate Patagonia
• Hiking the Spanish Pyrenees

Level 5 – Strenuous

Full-day hikes (4-8 hours), mountainous, steep terrain (hiking up or down as much as 3,500 feet) on many days. Trips with hiking at average altitudes of 10,000 to 12,000 feet are in this category.

• Inca Trail to Machu Picchu
• Everest Lodge to Lodge

Level 6 – Very Strenuous

Full-day hikes (5-8 hours), mountainous, steep terrain (hiking up or down as much as 3,500 feet) on many days. Most hikes take place at altitudes above 10,000 feet, with some days ascending as high as 18,000 feet.

• Everest Base Camp
• Climb Kilimanjaro!

Uzbekistan Tours & Holidays

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 travellers 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, colourful   doppi   (skullcaps) woollen 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 travellers 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 jewellery, souvenir knives, ceramics and clothes.

There's also a large street food market where you can eat a number of local favourites 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  c entury, 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 recognised. 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 they were liberated 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 to honour 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 labelled 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 coloured, 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 recognisable 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 travelling 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 neighbouring 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 travellers 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 travellers 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. 

Travellers 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?

Travellers 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 mobile 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 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 sanitiser 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 travelling in Uzbekistan.

What is ATM access like in Uzbekistan?

Relying on ATM access isn't wise when travelling 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 autumn means the markets are full of fresh produce. However, spring and autumn 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 40s Celsius 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 8˚C high 20s 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+ travellers?

Everyone should feel comfortable when they travel with Intrepid, and we know that many of our travellers are part of the LGBTQIA+ community. It’s important for our travellers 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 travelling 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. Travellers 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 travellers with disabilities?

We're 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 travellers with disabilities and see if we can help guide them towards the most suitable itinerary for their needs and where possible, make reasonable adjustments to our itineraries.

However, Uzbekistan can be a difficult destination for travellers 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're travelling 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 travelling?

Absolutely. All passengers travelling 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 travelling?

Intrepid takes the health and safety of its travellers seriously and takes every measure to ensure that trips are safe, fun and enjoyable for everyone. We recommend that all travellers check with their government or national travel advisory organisation for the latest information before departure:

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 mobilise 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 Tours & Holidays

Small group tours & tailor-made holidays.

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Uzbekistan has long considered itself different from the rest of Central Asia. These rich lands were settled as early as the 6th century and led to a less nomadic existence compared to its neighbours – an ancient past that is etched into the very stone of   Khiva   and   Bukhara’s   towering fortresses.  

Scythians   settled ...

Scythians   settled here in the Bronze Age and built giant burial mounds for their kings, Alexander the Great briefly brought the area under control during his march eastwards and the armies of Islam were spreading Muhammad’s message through its valleys and cities as early as 700AD. However, it was under the reign of   Tamerlane   in the 14th century that Uzbekistan experienced its Golden Age, seen today in the breathtaking splendour of   Samarkand’s   Islamic architecture, most notably   Registan   Square and   Gur -e- Amir   –   Tamerlane’s   tomb. All of these different civilizations, migrations and conquerors have left their mark on the country we see today, physically, culturally and spiritually.  

The cities of   Samarkand ,   Bukhara   and   Khiva   offer a glimpse into the country’s glittering past with their impressive architecture, intricately tiled domes, thriving bazaars, tea houses and alleyways. Here, you can also witness the ancient techniques of silk production and other crafts for which Uzbekistan has been renowned for centuries, such as carpet weaving and colourful ceramics. For more modern artistry, the city of   Nukus   is home to a huge collection of   avant - garde   Soviet art, much of it smuggled out of Russia in the 1930’s.  

Although it is rightly renowned for its cities, we believe there is more to Uzbekistan than its Silk Road heritage. As always with Wild Frontiers, we like to get off the beaten track by leading our Uzbekistan trips into the countryside where to experience the country’s rugged natural beauty and friendly rural culture. From the verdant slopes of the   Ferghana   Valley to the arid, parched landscapes of the Aral Sea, this is a land whose beauty has long lived in the imagination of the west.  

Take a Wild Frontiers small group tour or tailor-made adventure in Uzbekistan to learn the legacy of the Silk Road through the impressive mosques, minarets and bazaars of   Khiva ,   Samarkand   and   Bukhara ; or explore the country’s natural beauty and rural charm with our Uzbekistan holidays and tours.

Meet the Expert

Start your journey, group tours.

Travel to Uzbekistan with like-minded people on one of our small group tours (usually max size 12), featuring knowledgeable local guides and an expert tour leader.

TAILOR-MADE HOLIDAYS

Whether you want to travel on one of our award-winning itineraries as a private tour or build your own journey from scratch, our expert consultants will help create the perfect tour for your tastes and budget. Below are a few suggestions of the kind of trips we can offer, all of which can be tailored to you.

SUGGESTED ITINERARIES

Highlights of uzbekistan, best experiences.

Explore the history of Tashkent

See the main sights via the city's metro with its richly decorated stations. Visit the central square Amir Timur Maydoni, the statue of Tamerlane on horseback, the Alisher Navoi Opera and Ballet Theatre, the Applied Arts Museum and the Old Quarter of the city.

Visit the last emir’s summer palace

Visit the summer palace of Bukhara's last Emir. The palace is an eclectic mix of Oriental and European design and contains a good collection of suzanis (traditional embroidery) and Chinese porcelain brought to the city of  Bukhara by camel caravan in the 19th century.

Marvel the Majesty of the Registan

Explore Samarkand's most impressive sight, Registan Square 'Sandy Place' in Persian. Surrounded on three sides by blue tiled madrassahs, it is a masterpiece of impressive architecture and no picture can convey the magnificence of this square.

Discover the Desert Citadels

Enjoy the remote ancient desert citadels, located on the fringes of the Kyzyl-Kum Desert. Explore the imposing Toprak Kala, which was settled in the 1st century BC and later flourished in the 3rd century AD as the capital of the Khoresmshah Dynasty.

Hike between Nurata guesthouses

Hike through the Nurata Mountains to your next guesthouse. Enjoy a lovely walk, surrounded by mountainous views. Your lunch will be either a picnic along the way or will be enjoyed at the next guesthouse, depending on how long your walk is.

Enjoy an opera and ballet show

Music is vital to the Uzbek soul. An evening at the Alisher Navoi Opera and Ballet Theatre in Tashkent, with its glittering fountains and finely mosaicked interiors, is to touch an artistic quality that is beginning to achieve international recognition.

Visit Khovrenko wine cellar

Taste the secret wines of Khovrenko Wine Cellar. Kept a secret for many decades, passed between friends and finally revealed in 1968, Mr Dmitry Filatov had been producing wines and filled a cellar with wines from Samarkand, many of which are now auctioned off.

Take in views of Aydarkul Lake

Visit Aydarkul Lake, the largest freshwater lake in Uzbekistan. The lake was accidentally created after Chardarya reservoir in the Syrdariya river burst in 1969. Although manmade, the lake is important to many migratory birds’ species, as well as native fish.

TOP PLACES TO VISIT

Left behind by the retreating waters of a vast inland ocean, the Aral Sea was once the fourth largest inland body of water on the planet. Fed by the Amu Darya and Syr Darya Rivers, its fragile ecology ...

Bukhara was a major staging point on the Silk Road. By about 500BC, it was already an important centre, defended by a citadel that has stood in one form or other ever since. Today it is the site of ...

Khiva is a fascinating medieval desert town which has been perfectly preserved. It came to prominence in the 16th century as the capital of the Khans of Khiva whose territory stretched from the Caspian ...

Nurata Mountains

The Nurata mountain range is home to the Nurata Nature Reserve and many lush green river valleys, as well as the ancient town of Nurata, founded by Alexander the Great. Rural Tajik and Uzbek villages ...

Samarkand is the evocative, mythical name of one of the key trading cities of the ancient Silk Road. With a history dating back 2,700 years, Samarkand became famous as the capital of the vast state ...

Tashkent, the capital city of Uzbekistan, has a population of more than two million and is the major economic, political and cultural centre of the republic. Its history spans over two millennia, although ...

Ferghana Valley

Known as the "garden of Uzbekistan" the Ferghana Valley lies in the eastern part of Uzbekistan between the Tian Shan (Heavenly Mountains) and the Pamir Alay range, and spreads across Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan ...

OUR FAVOURITE PLACES TO STAY

Bibi-Khanym Hotel, Bukhara

Hotel Bibikhanum, Samarkand

Minzifa Hotel, Bukhara

Mirzo Boutique Hotel, Tashkent

Sasha & Son, Bukhara

Orient Star Hotel (Khiva Madrasah), Khiva

Discover more.

The best time to visit is generally May, June, September and October when the skies tend to be clear and the temperature warm. You can also visit Uzbekistan in July and August however it is hot and the temperature in Bukhara and Khiva can reach 40 degrees. Read Our Best Time To Visit Uzbekistan Guide >

Meet the expert, Clem

Clem is our Uzbekistan expert, who has travelled extensively in the country.

Speak to Clementine by calling +44 (0)20 3944 6258

USEFUL INFORMATION

Health and Vaccinations

There are no mandatory immunisations for travellers to Uzbekistan though you should be up-to-date with Typhoid, Tetanus, Polio and Hepatitis A. We recommend you seek advice from your local GP or travel centre as to the correct immunisations and preventative treatments.

In Uzbekistan, the official unit of currency is the Sum.

To check out the latest exchange rate for the places that you are visiting you can go to www.oanda.com .

Cultural Sensitivity

On our tours you will frequently interact with local people, each with their own distinct customs and traditions. We therefore ask you to be considerate and to treat them with respect. Your tour-leaders and guides will always be able to advise you accordingly.

The first thing to say about travelling in Uzbekistan is that most areas, particularly the cities and towns, have a much more laid-back approach to Islam than other countries to the south. In places such as Tashkent and Samarkand you won’t believe the length of some women’s skirts! However, it should also be remembered that it is technically a Muslim region and therefore some caution and respect should be applied. T-shirts are fine for both sexes, as are vest tops and skirts for women, but if visiting the active mosques and mausoleums of Bukhara, Khiva and Samarkand, women should cover their shoulders and both men and women should wear trousers/ skirts that fall below the knee.

Language & Religion

Uzbek is the only official state language in Uzbekistan, although the Tajik language is widespread within Bukhara and Samarkand due to the large population of ethnic Tajiks. Russian is the main language for 14% of the population and in the cities, it is an important language for inter-ethnic communication.

95% of the population are Muslim with about 5% following Russian Orthodox Christianity. Over the years there have been many versions of the Islamic faith practiced in Uzbekistan

Uzbekistan is 5 hours ahead of GMT A useful website to check the time zone differences is www.worldtimezone.com .

Food and drink

The food in Uzbekistan is not particularly varied and is based around meat and rice, although the salads on offer are very tasty. Your guide will ensure you experience the delicacies of each region, which often overlap with the cultures that have lived and moved around Central Asia over the centuries.

Regarding alcohol, the choice is limited to vodka, beer or rather filthy local brandy so anyone wanting something different - Scotch or Gin for example - should buy it duty free and bring it with them. However, be advised that mixers, like tonic water, are extremely difficult to find! There is also some quite acceptable local wine generally available, although rarely sold by the glass!

Travelling Solo In Uzbekistan 

All of our   small group tours   are designed to cater for   solo travellers : the number of solo travellers will vary from tour to tour, but usually over half will be travelling alone. Get all of the excitement of discovering new places combined with the security of travelling with an organised group, with like minded people.

Shakhrisabz

• Regions of Uzbekistan

Sport tourism

Agro & ethno tourism, youth tourism, gastro tourism, medical tourism.

• Cultural tourism
• MICE tourism
• Pilgrimage tourism
• Literary tourism
• General inforamation
• “Uzbekistan. Safe travel GUARANTEED”

Attractions

• Calendar-catalogue of holidays and events
• International exhibitions

Workhours: 9:00-18:00, Mn-Fr

Picturesque mountains, blooming valleys, hot deserts, rivers and crystal lakes – all this beauty you can enjoy here in Uzbekistan!

Uzbek cuisine

Fragrant pilaf, delicious kazan-kabob, samsa, bread and hot shurpa - amaze the residents and guests of Uzbekistan with their color and incomparable taste.

Architecture

Magnificent architectural ensembles, palaces, mosques and minarets decorated with blue mosaics and colorful paintings have been striking the eyes of millions of guests of Uzbekistan for many centuries

Cultural heritage of Uzbekistan

The culture of Uzbekistan has a rich history, which was inextricably linked by centuries-old traditions and lifestyle of the peoples of Central Asia

Unique patterns weawing products of applied art of Uzbekistan, the deep meaning and significance of which have been formed over many centuries

Discover new Uzbekistan!

Uzbekistan is a mysterious country of the East, where the history of cities gathered in legends, where the sun shines all year round and this reflects the unique nature and beautiful hearts of people.

Welcome to the country of magnificent architecture and ancient traditions preserved a unique heritage. Everyone who comes to this blessed land is welcome here! If you have visited Uzbekistan once, be sure, you will want to return back here again.

Tourist street of Gulbozor mahalla

Surkhandarya – the cradle of ancient civilizations

Big Uzbek tract

Miri Arab Madrasah

12 Gates of ancient Tashkent

Travel to the landmarks of the Gijduvan region

Tourist routes of Akhangaran district

Margilan Craft Centers

The route is done: Shakhrisabz - Gissarak reservoir - Sarchashma

Langar village in the mountains of Kashkadarya region

Cities of uzbekistan.

Popular destinations for tourists

The modern metropolis

Crossroads of cultures

The Capital of Islamic Culture

The capital of the Turkic world

Homeland of Amir Temur

Desert in the Aral Sea

Uzbek Switzerland

Termez – the Religious Centre

Photo gallery

Places, people, events – all the most intriguing in our Photo gallery

Winter in Bostanlyk region

Download for free

Navruz Park, Tashkent

Poi-kalon ensemble, camel riding, “bukhara desert oasis & spa”, complex sultan uvays-karaniy, souvenirs in navruz park, tashkent, oriental beauty, welcome to uzbekistan.

The amazing story of Tashkent chimes

House Museum of Jahon-Otin Uvaysi

Virtual Galleries

Chorsu Art Gallery

Japanese garden

Erkin Vohidov Memorial Museum

The Tashkent House of Photography

Museum of Victims of Repressions

1303 steps to the cave of Hazrati Daud (David)

Ensemble Dorut Tilovat - "House of Reflection"

Gastro-symbols of Chorsu Bazaar

Tourism for all.

• Travel Guideline
• Tour operator license registry
• Domestic tourism
• Tourism Legislation
• Tourist routes
• Public data
• Tourist arrivals
• Privacy policy
• Terms of Use
• License Agreement
• News & Events
• Uzbekistan News
• Press media
• Tourism Rankings

For any questions

Uzbekistan Travel

Registan Square, Samarkand

Uzbekistan travel is an exploration of dreamy medieval landscapes accentuated by minarets that pierce the desert sky. Local pilgrims arrayed in dazzling sequined robes whose kaleidoscopic colors are as vibrant as the people themselves. Aromatic scents that combine with the melodic banter of a thriving bazaar, welcoming you to a country both foreign and inviting, adventurous yet comfortable. 

This Silk Road destination has been making history for thousands of years – decrepit Buddhist stupas and Zoroastrian shrines speak of its antiquity, while jaw-dropping vestiges of palaces and mosques make it easy to believe how these medieval kingdoms spawned stories of fantasy and lore.

Perhaps Uzbekistan has already captured your imagination and you’re simply looking for practical details on how to prepare for your upcoming trip, in which case we encourage you to check out Uzbekistan Trip Planner .

Uzbekistan Travel Guide by Local Expert

• 1. Is Uzbekistan Worth Visiting?
• 2. Your Dream Vacation
• 3. Visa Matters
• 4. Is Uzbekistan Safe for Travel?
• 5. Choose Your Transport
• 6. Uzbekistan Travel Seasons
• 7. Uzbekistan Travel Map
• 8. How Many Days Do You Need in Uzbekistan?
• 9. At Your Service
• 10. Holidays and Festivals
• 11. Curious about Uzbek Cuisine?
• 12. Dos and Don’ts in Uzbekistan
• 13. Speak the Language
• 14. Virtual Uzbekistan Travel Guide: Further Reading
• 15. Did You Know That…

Is Uzbekistan Worth Visiting?

With a myriad of destinations open to 21st century globetrotters, why choose Uzbekistan, a seemingly obscure country in Central Asia?

Uzbekistan is unique , offering visitors exquisite architecture that echoes from the days of Tamerlane, Alexander the Great and the land’s earliest Zoroastrian inhabitants. Not to be outdone by the past, contemporary Uzbekistan is equally alluring, replete with a magnetic culture and diverse landscapes that form the perfect backdrop to endless adventures.

Uzbekistan travel is an affordable option for thrifty travelers, with all-inclusive, guided tours available for a fraction of the cost of equivalent trips in Europe or South America. Inexpensive transportation, cheap meals and an ever-growing selection of hostels have also opened the door to independent travelers.

Uzbekistan is more accessible than ever before, with citizens of almost every nation eligible for either 30-day visa-free entry or an inexpensive online visa. Once in country, all major attractions are connected by a modern and reliable rail system, while each major city welcomes you with a wide array of comfortable accommodation choices. At the same time…

Uzbekistan is still off the beaten path and sure to satisfy those with a thirst to explore the world’s unknown corners. You won’t have to battle throngs of tourists and may well find yourself the lone visitor at some of its most ancient and mind-blowing sites.

Uzbekistan hosts many important international events, such as the Tashkent International Investment Forum , which will be held for the second time in 2024.

The bottom line? There’s never been a more ideal time for Uzbekistan travel – one of the world’s best-kept secrets, a seat of ancient empires that’s steeped in culture and host to a wealth of beauty.

Your Dream Vacation in Uzbekistan

Dive into Uzbek culture with homestays, cooking classes and yurt camping. Hop on a time machine for a cross-country tour of historic Uzbekistan. Craft your tour around Uzbekistan’s fine-tuned artistic traditions with pottery lessons, silk paper production and carpet weaving.

Our Uzbekistan tourism packages are as diverse as the clients we serve. Whether you’re into history, outdoor adventures or cultural immersion, wanting a quick jaunt to Uzbekistan’s main sites or an extensive, multi-country expedition, chances are we have a tour that’s just what you’re looking for. And if not, drop us a note so that we can begin designing a personalized Uzbekistan travel itinerary that’s tailored to your specific needs and interests.

Uzbekistan Visa Matters

Thanks to relaxed Uzbekistan visa policies that made their grand debut in 2018, travel to Uzbekistan has never been easier. Citizens of nearly 80 nations, including Australia, Japan, South Korea, and many European and South American countries can now travel in Uzbekistan visa-free for up to 30 days. Passport holders of over 50 additional nations, including the US, India, Hong Kong, China and most Middle Eastern nations can apply online for a 30-day electronic tourist visa at a cost of 20 USD.

Additionally, 5-day transit visas may be obtained pending prior approval or flight tickets that confirm your departure.

Is Uzbekistan Safe for Travel?

Uzbekistan is safe, with an extremely low rate of violent crime. Law enforcement officers patrol the streets regularly and stand prepared to help and support tourists as needed. Also in Samarkand, Bukhara and Khiva you will find English speaking Tourist Police ready to assist guests of this sunny land. Travelers often remark on the kindness and helpfulness of Uzbekistan’s people, who will go out of their way to assist a guest in need. The nation has become increasingly tourist-friendly in recent years and takes a genuinely welcoming stance towards foreigners and tourists .

Choose Your Transport

The Silk Road sojourners of old would doubtless be jealous of the ease with which modern explorers can reach that golden road to Samarkand described in the poem of James Elroy Flecker. Uzbekistan, located in the very heart of Central Asia, is more accessible than you may think. Direct flights currently connect capital city Tashkent with Istanbul, Bangkok, Moscow and even New York City, while most major cities in Europe and the eastern US are one layover away from this otherworldly land.

Once in Uzbekistan, each region and major city is conveniently connected by an intricate, efficient railway system. If train travel isn’t your thing, short domestic flights are a quick alternative, while transport by private car allows you to soak in the scenery as you go .

Uzbekistan Travel Seasons

Being the diverse and temperate country that it is, Uzbekistan is a worthy travel destination year-round. While spring and autumn draw the most crowds with their pleasant temps and vibrant landscapes, each season has its own perks:

Winter: Perfect for ski enthusiasts, who can while away the time at Chimgan, Beldersay and Amirsoy Ski Resort, the latter of which opened in December 2019. Fewer tourists in winter also mean discounted accommodations and reduced Uzbekistan travel costs near many touristic sites.

Summer: Sultry summers bring succulent fruits and vegetables of every variety. In July and August, you won’t have to battle crowds and can often find tickets and accommodation at discounted prices. It’s also a great time to cool off in the mountains at Lake Charvak near Tashkent.

Spring: Uzbekistan’s most gorgeous season with pleasant weather, green pastures, flowers in full bloom and several local holidays and festivals that are well worth seeing.

Autumn: Cool and sunny weather, coupled with bazaars that burst with melons and grapes, call a second wave of tourists to this Silk Road land.

• Uzbekistan Weather
• When is the best time to visit Uzbekistan?

Uzbekistan Travel Map

Use the Uzbekistan Map to locate the country’s main cities and find out what each one has to offer:

How Many Days Do You Need in Uzbekistan?

Every trip to Uzbekistan will be uniquely patterned after the interests, dreams and schedules of each individual traveler. If you’re looking for a general blueprint to follow, however, these guidelines are based on the experiences of numerous tourists before you and can be a helpful starting point for planning your Uzbekistan Travels:

• Tashkent – Metropolitan capital of Uzbekistan with welcoming parks, modern amenities and a smattering of historical sites How long should I stay? 1-2 days Major sites: Tashkent Metro , Chorsu Bazaar , Amir Temir Square How to get off the beaten path: Wander the streets of Old City in the neighborhood of Chorsu Bazaar, or scrounge for Soviet antiques at the used-goods Yangiabad Bazaar
• Samarkand – Seat of Tamerlane’s medieval empire with striking turquoise-domed palaces and mausoleums, including the glorious Registan How long should I stay? 2-3 days, especially if you wish to include a visit to nearby Shakhrisabz Major sites: Registan , Gur Emir , Shakhi Zinda How to get off the beaten path: Spend the day roaming the archaeological ruins of Afrosiyob, or try your hand at traditional carpet weaving at Hudjum Carpet Factory
• Bukhara – Famed center of learning in the Islamic world, its charming Old City quarters will transport you back in time How long should I stay? 1.5-2 days Major sites: Ark Fortress , Lyabi-Hauz , Poi Kalyan Ensemble How to get off the beaten path: Take a day trip from Bukhara to Gijduvon for a ceramics master class; grab some of Bukhara’s famous sofi osh at a local café outside Old City quarters
• Khiva – A ‘Museum Under the Open Sky’ and former Silk Road trade city preserved for over 1500 years How long should I stay? 1-2 days Major sites: Kunya Ark Fortress , Juma Mosque , Kalta Minor Minaret How to get off the beaten path: Tour the impressive Nurullaboy Palace in Khiva’s Dishan-Kala; take a day trip to the Desert Castles of Ancient Khorezm
• Nukus – Gateway city to the Aral Sea and capital of the Republic of Karakalpakstan How long should I stay? 1.5-2 days, including a trip to Muynak Major sites: Aral Sea , Savitsky Museum , Mizdakhan Necropolis How to get off the beaten path: If you’re in Nukus, you’re already well off the beaten path! While in town, visit the House Museum of Ahmet Shamuratov, one of Karakalpakstan’s greatest authors, or spend a half day shopping at the bazaar
• Fergana Valley – Beautiful, populous valley where the country’s finest ceramics and silk products are produced, it includes the cities of Andijan, Fergana, Margilan, Rishtan and Kokand How long should I stay? 2-3 days if you wish to travel to each city Major sites: Ceramics Workshop (Rishtan), Yodgorlik Silk Factory ( Margilan ), Palace of Khudoyar Khan ( Kokand ) How to get off the beaten path: Explore ancient Kuva; enjoy the small central parks in Margilan and Fergana
• Termez – Small town laying claim to 1st-century Buddhist ruins and some of the oldest sites in all Uzbekistan How long should I stay? 1-2 days Major sites: Kara Tepa , Fayaz Tepa , Kirk Kiz Fortress How to get off the beaten path: Admire the lonely Jarkurgan Minaret; track down Zurmala Stupa, believed to be the oldest structure in Uzbekistan

At Your Service

Whether you’re looking to join a group tour, arrange a day trip as a supplement to independent travels or could simply use a little help with in-country transport, we would love to make your trip as smooth and memorable as possible. Our Uzbekistan Travel services include:

Holidays and Festivals

Uzbekistan’s splendor is never more gloriously displayed than during local holidays and festivals. Come lose yourself in the graceful rhythm of richly ornamented dancers, the irresistible scents of freshly ground spices and home-cooked delights and the kind-hearted embrace of a people eager to welcome you into their beloved traditions.

Organize your Uzbekistan travels around one of these celebrations:

Navruz (21st March) – Uzbekistan welcomes Persian New Year in full fanfare every March 21, when the long- anticipated arrival of spring is celebrated with song, dance, games and copious amounts of food. Best place to celebrate: Boysun, Bukhara, Fergana Valley, Samarkand

Silk and Spices Festival (late May-early June) – Bukhara’s annual resurrection of its Silk Road legacy will revolutionize your idea of a party with its days-long celebration splashed with color, folk music, master classes, sporting events and a huge handicrafts fair. Best place to celebrate: Silk and Spice Festival is only held in Bukhara

Sharq Taronalari (August) – Sharq Taronalari (Eastern Melodies) is a weeklong music festival held every two years at the famed Registan in Samarkand, attracting top-notch performers and attendees from dozens of nations. Best place to celebrate: Sharq Taronalari is only held in Samarkand

Independence Day (1st September) – Uzbekistan’s independence is duly commemorated with grandiose shows, firework displays, concerts and special programs. Best place to celebrate: Tashkent

New Year season – Beginning in mid-December, the capital of Uzbekistan is decked out with lights and ‘New Year’ trees, with mini carnivals and holiday villages open daily throughout the city. Best place to celebrate: Tashkent

Curious about Uzbek Cuisine?

Our list of Top Best Dishes to taste while in country:

A sumptuously seasoned dish of rice, carrots, meat and raisins.

Uzbek bread may not be a meal in itself, yet no meal is complete without this fresh staple.

Finely chopped noodles and meat served with hot broth, this is a local favorite.

Cute dumplings wrapped in paper-thin dough and served with fresh cream and broth.

Delicious homemade noodles topped with a meat and vegetable stew.

Chunks of fresh meat and potatoes stewed with spices and greens.

Perfectly steamed, juicy dumplings filled with ground beef and onion.

Flaky pastries stuffed with meat, potato, chicken, pumpkin or spinach - there’s a samsa out there for everyone.

A gooey spring treat, this quintessential Uzbek snack is made with wheat sprouts and lots of patience.

Check out our Uzbekistan Travel Guidebook for Food for an in-depth look at:

• Uzbekistan’s National Dishes
• Vegetarian Food in Uzbekistan

Dos and Don’ts in Uzbekistan

Uzbekistan’s people are a gracious and forgiving bunch, particularly towards foreigners who may not be familiar with local customs. Still, knowing a bit about the host culture can go a long way in showing respect and forging friendships as you travel:

• Take off your shoes before walking into a mosque or home
• Show respect for those older than you by giving them the right of way and allowing them the best seats on buses, at dinner tables and near tourist sites
• Bring a gift if you’ll be joining a local family for a meal or an overnight stay
• Confirm prices with taxi drivers before getting into the car to avoid paying more than you bargained for
• Watch your step, as roads may be uneven, with unexpected steps or inclines
• Leave bread on the ground or place it on the table upside down, as it’s considered sacred by many
• Blow your nose loudly in public, which is considered rude
• Talk very loudly in public, particularly near religious sites
• Accept an offer to have tea in someone’s home unless they insist several times – inviting someone to come in for tea is a polite gesture that’s not always intended sincerely
• Hesitate to ask for help or interact with local people, most of whom are more than happy to answer your questions or practice English with you!

Speak the Language

Knowing a few basic phrases in the local language will endear you to people and open up doors for friendship and connection during your travels in Uzbekistan. Some words and sayings that may come in handy:

Virtual Uzbekistan Travel Guide: Further Reading

• Uzbekistan Travel Tips
• Uzbekistan Tours Pages

Did You Know That…

Uzbekistan may be unfamiliar to many, but its influence has already spread far and wide:

• India’s Taj Mahal was built by an Uzbek and inspired by Samarkand architecture.
• Avicenna (Father of Modern Medicine), Al-Khorezmiy (Father of Algebra) and Tamerlane (world conqueror) were all born in the region.
• Uzbekistan is one of the world’s largest producers of cotton.
• Along with Liechtenstein, Uzbekistan is one of only two double-landlocked nations on earth.
• Formerly a part of the Soviet Union before independence in 1991, it remains Central Asia’s most populous and most visited country.

Uzbekistan Guide

• Great Silk Road
• Uzbek People
• UNESCO World Heritage Sites
• Uzbekistan Cuisine
• Uzbek Dishes
• Uzbek Wines
• Landmarks and Attractions
• Museums and Galleries
• Internet & Cellular
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• Myths and Legends
• Petroglyphs
• Golf Holiday
• Travel Restrictions - Covid-19
• Uzbekistan Tourism
• Medical Tourism
• Uzbekistan Trip Planner
• Best Time to Visit
• Solo Traveler Guide
• Things to Do in Uzbekistan
• Uzbekistan Embassy
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• Uzbekistan Souvenirs

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Check out this year's Best in Travel winners

The region’s cradle of culture for more than two millennia, Uzbekistan is the proud home to a spellbinding arsenal of architecture and ancient cities, all deeply infused with the bloody, fascinating history of the Silk Road. In terms of sights alone, Uzbekistan is Central Asia's biggest draw and most impressive showstopper.

Best Time to Visit

Best places to visit, attractions, must-see attractions.

This ensemble of majestic, tilting medressas – a near-overload of majolica, azure mosaics and vast, well-proportioned spaces – is the centrepiece of the…

Gur-e-Amir Mausoleum

The beautiful portal and trademark fluted azure dome of the Gur-e-Amir Mausoleum marks the final resting place of Timur (Tamerlane), along with two sons…

Shah-i-Zinda

Samarkand’s most moving and beloved site is this stunning avenue of mausoleums, which contains some of the richest tilework in the Muslim world. The name,…

The spectacular-looking Ark, a royal town-within-a-town, is Bukhara’s oldest structure, occupied from the 5th century right up until 1920, when it was…

Savitsky Museum

The Savitsky Museum houses one of the most remarkable art collections in the former Soviet Union. About half of the paintings were brought here in Soviet…

Kalon Minaret

When it was built by the Karakhanid ruler Arslan Khan in 1127, the Kalon Minaret was probably the tallest building in Central Asia – kalon means…

Tosh-Hovli Palace

This palace, which means ‘Stone House’, contains Khiva’s most sumptuous interior decoration, dense with blue ceramic tiles, carved wooden pillars and…

Kumtepa Bazaar

Fergana Valley

The fantastic Kumtepa Bazaar, 5km west of Margilon centre, is a time capsule full of weathered Uzbek men in traditional clothing exchanging solemn…

Top picks from our travel experts

9 of the best things to do in uzbekistan.

Yodgorlik Silk Factory

Margilon's main attraction is this fascinating factory, a block west of the central Dekon Bazaar. English-language guides can walk you through traditional…

Khan’s Palace

The palace of the Khan of Kokand, with seven courtyards and 114 rooms, was built in 1873, though its dazzling tiled exterior makes it look so perfect that…

Rishton Ceramic Museum

Of the thousand local potters who make a living from the legendary local loam, only a handful are considered true masters who still use traditional…

Planning Tools

Expert guidance to help you plan your trip.

Best Things to Do

From skiing and wine-tasting to exploring the historic cities of the Silk Road, you’ll never be short of things to do in Uzbekistan.

Things to Know

Uzbekistan is now much easier to visit than in the past. We've got all the planning tips you need to make your first visit all you dreamed it would be.

Transportation

Travel the Silk Road through Uzbekistan by train, car or taxi with these essential transport tips.

Visa Requirements

It’s never been easier to travel to Uzbekistan – read on to see if you need a visa to and how to go about getting one.

Money and Costs

Experience everything the Silk Road has to offer in Uzbekistan, one of Asia’s most affordable destinations.

Traveling with Kids

Experience the Silk Road as a family with this guide to exploring Uzbekistan with kids.

Best Road Trips

Uzbekistan has been the setting for some of Asia’s most important road trips. Follow the network of Silk Roads with these driving routes.

Spending Diaries

A bucket-list trip to Central Asia for €2400 – and worth every cent.

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Uzbekistan and beyond.

Uzbekistan Travel Guide: The Ultimate 10-Day Itinerary

Uzbekistan, a deserted landscape where time-stood still or, that’s what everyone thinks! In reality, Uzbekistan is a well-developing country with beautifully-tiled mosques, palaces with detailed ornaments, tasty food with their fresh vegetables and fruits, a high-speed train network and best of all, some of the friendliest and welcoming people out there. Plan to travel Uzbekistan with our 10-day itinerary.

Uzbekistan Travel Itinerary

This undiscovered gem of Central Asia has a rich history due to its location on the legendary Silk Road. The great blend of the old and the new is a pleasant touch to the country. “But why has Uzbekistan been so under the radar?” The new president heavily invested in tourism by building a high-speed railway system and by making visas much cheaper or free. One to two weeks is enough time to travel around Uzbekistan.

Check if you need a visa online here

Day 1: Tashkent

Tashkent is the largest city in Central Asia. This modern capital is the starting point of your Uzbekistan travel itinerary because of its well-connected international airport.

Tashkent is very different from others and doesn’t have much to offer apart from visiting the Bazaar and the picturesque Metro stations.

Tip: Download the Verum QR app since mid-2019 all sites have QR codes that provide information about the object. (Like a free tour guide)

Day 2 – 4: Samarkand – Uzbekistan Travel Favorite

Step into the wonderful city of colorful mosques, minarets, mausoleums, and the traditional market – Samarkand is the must-see city of Uzbekistan. Spend three days visiting all its sites and having a chat with the welcoming locals.

All about: The Things To Do in Samarkand

Tashkent to Samarkand

The high-speed train from Tashkent to Samarkand only takes two hours and is very convenient.

Where to stay in Samarkand

The hotels and guesthouses in Samarkand are for every kind of budget. We highly recommend B&B Antica . A wonderful guesthouse with a beautiful garden where you will get the best breakfast in the city! It is also located right next to Gur-e Amir.

Hotels in Samarkand 😴

Day 5 – 7: Bukhara

The walkable city of Bukhara might be the most picturesque city in Uzbekistan. The labyrinth of narrow, quiet streets and green parks make it a rather pleasant place to spend a couple of days. Visit the Ark and Po-i Kalyan Complex, two architectural masterpieces.

Bukhara – The Ancient Mosque city guide

Samarkand to Bukhara

Jump on the high-speed train in Samarkand and arrive in Bukhara in under 2 hours.

Where to stay in Bukhara

It’s best to find a hotel in Bukhara near the area where cars are not allowed, and most restaurants are located.

Hotels in Bukhara 😴

Day 7 – 9: Khiva

Khiva, the open-air museum in the desert, was the first place in Uzbekistan to get a UNESCO heritage listing. Taste the delicious food of this region and wander around in this old, mud-brick-walled village that feels like walking in an actual movie scene. 

Read: Full Khiva Museum City Guide

Bukhara to Khiva

Of all the destinations on your Uzbekistan travel itinerary, Khiva is certainly the hardest to get to. From Bukhara, it is best to take the train (5h) or taxi (7h).

Where to Stay in Khiva

Khiva offers affordable accommodation for all budgets. The higher-end hotels are located within the city walls, and just outside those walls, hotels get much more affordable.

Hotels in Khiva 😴

Day 10: Tashkent

Finally, spend the last day of your time in Uzbekistan, making your way to Tashkent to catch your international flight back home with a backpack filled with new experiences.

You can either take the night train from Khiva (16.5 h) or fly back from Urgench to Tashkent. (1.5h)

Costs of traveling in Uzbekistan

Uzbekistan is a very affordable country to travel around and can easily be done on your own. Transportation and accommodation are the biggest expenses while traveling in Uzbekistan. 

Costs of Traveling in Uzbekistan

Travel on a budget in Uzbekistan, from $290 − $460 USD weekly per person, mid-range $710 − $1240 USD, and high-end from $1200 − $1810 USD. However, costs depend on factors like accommodation, transportation, and activities. We did not include flights. Check flight prices here

• Hotels: $60 − $200 USD Check available hotels
• Hostels: $20 − $50 USD Check available hostels
• Transport: $5 − $10 USD Book public transport
• Food: $10 − $30 USD
• Activities: $3 − $20 USD See tickets & tours
• Sim: $1 − $3 USD Get an eSIM or SIM here
• Travel Insurance: $2 − $6 USD Get Travel Insurance

Getting cash in Uzbekistan

Each city has a handful of good working ATMs. Some dispense Uzbek Sums and other US Dollars. Maestro and Visa cards are widely accepted, whereas Mastercard is limited. 

Food in Uzbekistan 

The large markets with fresh fruits, vegetables, and loaves of bread represent the tasty meals of the food in Uzbekistan. Expect delicious salads, soups, bread, plov, dumplings, and so much more. Even for vegetarians, it isn’t too difficult to find great meatless meals like pumpkin dumplings (Manti). 

How to Get Around Uzbekistan

A commonly misunderstood fact is that you would have to see Uzbekistan with a tour company – wrong! Uzbekistan’s rail network is a super convenient, affordable, and overall great way to get around the country. The fast trains are of the same quality as Italy or another European country. 

Right now, booking tickets online is still very difficult (2019) but fortunately, Advantour, the silk road tour operator , takes away the hassle by pre-booking everything for you.

Train tickets for the above Uzbekistan travel route cost between 5 and 20 USD per ride per person, depending on the class. 

Browse and book your train tickets online

All major cities are connected with a domestic or international airport and have regularly scheduled flights.

Tip: Right now, we recommend taking just one flight back from Khiva to Tashkent because the train between the other cities is a much better way of traveling.

Best Time to Travel in Uzbekistan

It is best to visit Uzbekistan in the spring (April to June) and autumn (September – October) when the weather is comfortably warm and dry.

In general, it is recommended to skip the summer months, June to August. However, our visit in late August was fine if we would stay out of the sun in the afternoon. 

What to Wear in Uzbekistan

Uzbekistan is a modern country without strict rules on how women should dress. Although the majority of the country is Muslim, headscarves are not required at all, and you will see women wearing whatever they feel comfortable with, even ripped jeans or skirts. Expect quite a few selfie requests as Western tourists are still new and exciting. 

Dress in a way that is respectful to everyone. Of course, at some religious sites, you are required to cover yourself, so always bring an extra scarf with you while traveling in Uzbekistan. 

Safety in Uzbekistan

Besides corruption happening a few years ago, the crime rate in Uzbekistan is very low, making it a safe country to travel to .

Travel Insurance Don't forget a travel insurance for your Uzbekistan trip! Heymondo covers medical emergencies, theft, delays, cancellations, lost luggage, and more, with 24/7 worldwide assistance and medical chat. As a Salt in our Hair reader, we've got you 5% off! Check Heymondo here

In contrast to a city trip to Europe , you don’t have to pay attention to pickpockets. The Uzbek people are respectful, and couples and solo travelers have to worry while traveling in this beautiful country.

Discover more about: Finding the right travel insurance

Do I Need a Visa for Uzbekistan?

Getting your visa for Uzbekistan has become a piece of cake for most nationalities due to changes in 2018. E-visas can now be acquired, and for some countries, it’s even free.

By purchasing through our links, you support us at no additional cost. Thank you for your support. ♥️

• Find Hotels via Booking.com
• Find a Rental Car via Sunny Cars
• Find Flights to Uzbekistan via Skyscanner
• Get a Travel Insurance via Heymondo
• Book Tours & Attractions via GetYourGuide
• Book a Bus/Train/Transfer via 12Go

The Ancient Mosque City Bukhara, Uzbekistan

Samarkand, uzbekistan: best things to do & see, things to do in khiva, uzbekistan: the open air museum.

Looking for more travel information? Plan a chat with us for personalised travel advice or get an answer from the Salt in our Hair Travel Community on Facebook.

We were looking for information about Uzbekistan. We are glad we reached you site. Your coverage of this wonderful land is detailed and ready to use.

Can you tell us if online booking has started for their train network?

Thanks for this wow blog and thanks in anticipation for your expected reply to our query on rail booking.

Thanks! As far as we’re aware that system is still not working for bookings as foreigners.

Hi there, you can book easily through the national Uzbek trains website with no extra commission as a foreigner. We had no problems doing it for our trip right now!

Thanks for pointing that out & we hope you’re having a great trip! 🤗

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• 5 Days - Quick Glance
• 5 Days - Quick Tour by Train
• 7 Days - Golden Ring
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• 8 Days - Journey to the Heart of the Great Silk Road
• 9 Days - Desert Travel
• 10 Days - Golden Valley
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• 13 Days - All Corners of Uzbekistan
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• 14 Days - 5 Countries - Quick Tour to Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan, Turkmenistan and Tajikistan
• 22 Days - 5 Countries - Tour to Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan, Turkmenistan and Tajikistan
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• 4 Days - Lost in the Desert
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• 8 Days - Holidays / Events / Festivals
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• 9 Days - Gas Craters in Turkmenistan
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• 4 Days - Burning Mountain / Tajikistan
• 6 Days - Legand Cars Racing & Zipline
• 2 Days - Azerbaijan – Absheron Peninsula
• 4 Days - Hunting / Fishing
• 8 Days - Uzbekistan Group Tour, Fixed Date
• 17 Days - 4 Countries Group Tour, Fixed Date

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A museum in open air

We had a really good time in Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan and Kashgar. All guides, drivers, accommodation and food was fantastic! We had plenty of positive experiences. The program worked perfectly and we are your happy customers.

Assoc Prof Regine Wagner

Visiting Fellow Flexible Learning Institute Charles Sturt University

Bukhara a place of an outstanding architectural wonders

We have had many guides in the course of our world travels, but never ever one any better than the guide from Roxana Tour He worked tirelessly for us night and day. His efforts for us were far beyond what would have been "good".

Dr. Paul Hettinger

Orlando, FL, USA 32818

Look'round thee now on samarkand! Is not she queen of the earth?

I have been coming to Uzbekistan for 32 years and as a Tour leader for different companies, I can say that Roxana Tours is the best travel company in Uzbekistan I had in 32 years.

Gary Wintz, LA

Tour leader from ZOE and Mountain Sabeck

Great adventure opportunities

I wanted to drop you a quick e-mail thanking you for the outstanding tour you provided. From the time we arrived at Tashkent until we left, we had no problems and everything was first class.

Richard L. Wolfel, Ph.D. Assistant Professor of Geography

United States Military Academy West Point, NY 10996

Meet the most hospitable people

I am indeed impressed and would like to Thank you from the bottom of my heart, in fact you have not only gained my respect and admiration, I salute your efficiency, not to say the least, I am grateful I am sure I would not be traveling again to Uzbekistan without you definitely involved in my itinerary.

Saud A.Al Jaidah

CEO/ Al Jaidah Intl. Doha, Qatar

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Extraordinary path.

Lost in the Desert

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Living in Traditional Village

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Holidays / Events / Festivals

Traditional Games / Kirgizstan

Gas Craters in Turkmenistan

Rocket Launch / Baikonur Kazakhstan

Burning Mountain / Tajikistan

Legand Cars Racing & Zipline

Azerbaijan – Absheron Peninsula

Hunting / Fishing

Combined tours

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Tour to Uzbekistan and Turkmenistan

Price from 2640 USD p/p. We recommend spending a few days more to visit Turkmenistan for a wonderful combination of your Central Asia tours with the country of d...

Tour to Uzbekistan and Kazakhstan

Price from 2740 USD p/p. Don't miss a chance to see and compare two most interesting countries in Central Asia – Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan just in 12 days. Both ...

Tour to Uzbekistan and Kyrgyzstan

Price from 1890 USD p/p. This tour is a great opportunity to see and compare two beautiful countries in Central Asia –Uzbekistan and Kyrgyzstan just in 13 days. ...

Tour to Uzbekistan, Turkmenistan and Kyrgyzstan

Price from 2790 USD p/p. Unique offer to see most of Central Asia in a short time, just in 15 days. Though this program is short, it will be full of emotions and...

Tour to Uzbekistan, Turkmenistan, Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan

Price from 3880 USD p/p. This is the tour of your dream! It will be unforgettable journey as we cover 4 of the 5 Central Asian countries in 1...

Extended Tour to Uzbekistan, Turkmenistan, Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan

Price from 4100 USD p/p. This is another tour you were always dreaming about. It will be an unforgettable journey as we cover 4 out of 5 Central Asian Countries ...

Tour to Uzbekistan, Turkmenistan, Kyrgyzstan, Kazakhstan with active trekking in Tajikistan

Price from 4490 USD p/p. Here is something unique to do in the stans. It will cover all 5 Central Asian countries on 21 day. The experience and emotions that you...

Tour to Kyrgyzstan, China and Uzbekistan

Price from 3800 USD p/p. This 21 days tour will take you through the most iconic places of the Great Silk Road, which for centuries was connecting China with Eas...

Tour to Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan, Azerbaijan, Georgia and Armenia

Price from 4650 USD p/p. This 27 days tour through the Great Silk Road and the gems of Caucasus will become something special and for sure memorable! Your trip s...

Caucasus Triangle - Azerbaijan, Georgia and Armenia

Price from 3750 USD p/p. Tours to the Caucasus are getting very popular nowadays. Based on our experience we have developed unique Caucasus program consisting of...

Quike Caucasus ring to Azerbaijan, Georgia and Armenia

Price from 3150 USD p/p. Don't have much time, but want to see all Caucasus? Based on our experience we have developed a unique Caucasus program consisting of 10...

Tour: Georgia - Armenia

Price from 2500 USD p/p. Those who want to have a memorable tour in a peaceful atmosphere and visit impressive historical and natural sights will love this tour....

Tour to Kazakhstan, Azerbaijan, Georgia, Armenia, Ukraine, Moldova and Romania

Price from 5200 USD p/p. This 28 days tour is developed for one of our constant clients. Later it turned to be so perfect, that we have decided to offer it as ou...

Quick Tour to Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan, Turkmenistan and Tajikistan

Price from 3990 USD p/p. You will remember this truly amazing trip for your lifetime! It is very convenient for those who is limited in time, as we will cover al...

Tour to Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan, Turkmenistan and Tajikistan

Price from 4560 USD p/p. A truly amazing trip for your lifetime! We will cover all five Central Asian countries on the Great Silk Road just in 22 days. Though al...

Classic Tour to Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan

Price from 4200 USD p/p. One of the best packages we offer! It will duly cover the most important sights of all five Central Asian countries in 19 days. These co...

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The Complete Guide to travel in Uzbekistan (2024) – 18 Very Useful things you need to know to visit Uzbekistan

This is the most complete and updated online guide to travel in Uzbekistan with all the information you need to know to plan your visit to Uzbekistan!

Located on the Silk Road, Uzbekistan is a country in Central Asia that has recently opened its doors to the world. Since doing so, this off-the-beaten-path destination is gradually becoming more and more popular with tourists.

Nowadays, it’s far easier to travel independently around this spectacular place than during my first trip to Uzbekistan in 2017. I’ve seen many positive changes during my later trips since then.

That’s why I’m happy to share this complete and updated guide to travel in Uzbekistan that will help you in preparing for your trip.

This travel guide will provide you with useful and up-to-date Uzbekistan travel tips, and recommendations to visit Uzbekistan.

Come and find out more about this wondrous land, brimming with rich history, culture, and stunning Islamic architecture in this Uzbekistan travel guide!

Tip: See my Uzbekistan Travel Page for a complete overview of all my travel guides and blog posts about Uzbekistan!

Discover the mystical Silk Road cities and travel along the ancient caravan trails in the mountains and desert of Uzbekistan during the 14-day H i g h l i g h t s o f Uzbekistan Adventure Tour !

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Plan your trip to Uzbekistan

• 18 important things to prepare your trip to Uzbekistan
• 26 beautiful places to visit in Uzbekistan
• Uzbekistan Itineraries: 1 to 4 weeks in Uzbekistan
• How to travel aroun d Uzbekistan by train
• What to pack for Uzbekistan
• Uzbekistan Safety Guide
• Uzbekistan Money Guide
• Tours & Experiences: Guided City Tours in Uzbekistan, Adventure Tours in Uzbekistan

TABLE OF CONTENTS

1. Visiting Uzbekistan in 2024 – Uzbekistan Entry Requirements

1.1 do i need a visa to travel to uzbekistan.

Starting from 1 February 2019, citizens of the European Union, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, the United Arab Emirates, Israel, and many more countries can travel to Uzbekistan visa-free for a period of 30 days .

Citizens of 76 countries including the United States, China, and India have been granted the right to receive an electronic entry visa for a period of 30 days.

If your country of citizenship isn’t on any list, you’ll need to apply for a visa at the Uzbek Embassy.

How to apply for an Uzbekistan e-visa?

Applying for an electronic visa for Uzbekistan is very easy but remember that you should apply at least 3 days before your arrival in the country .

Head online to the Official Electronic Visa Portal of Uzbekistan and fill in your information.

This visa is still date-specific so you need to enter the date of your arrival and departure. Remember that you can stay up to 30 days in the country.

Once you’ve filled in your personal details, you have to upload a passport photo and a scanned copy of your passport (look here for guidelines ).

After you’ve activated your application by entering your email address, you’ll need to pay the consular fee to receive your e-visa. The cost of obtaining an e-visa is 20 USD and has to be paid with a valid Visa card.

Once your application has been approved, the electronic visa will be sent to your email address in pdf format within 48 hours.

Print the e-visa so you can show it upon your arrival. Your passport should also be valid for three months from the date you arrive.

1.2 Can I extend my Uzbekistan visa?

If you travel to Uzbekistan on a free tourist visa, you can enter and exit as many times as you want.

I traveled for a couple of days to Tashkent and Samarkand , left the country by crossing the land border with Tajikistan and returned 8 days later to Uzbekistan. Upon my 2nd arrival in Tashkent, I received a new stamp that allowed me to stay another 30 days in the country. 

As there are no clear rules yet about how many days within a year you’re allowed to stay in Uzbekistan, you can currently do a couple of border runs in the nearby countries like  Kazakhstan ,  Kyrgyzstan , and  Tajikistan   and easily renew your tourist visa.

Before you get all excited, just keep in mind that this might change at some point in the near future. 

1.3 What happens if I overstay my Uzbekistan Visa?

Whilst traveling in Uzbekistan, it’s really important that you keep an eye on how many days you’ve spent in the country and that your outgoing flight is booked within your visa time allowance.

If you happen to overstay your visa for any extra time it may result in a 2,000 USD fine as well as the Uzbek authorities delaying your exit from the country by a week or more.

1.4 Uzbekistan Vaccination Requirements

There aren’t any compulsory vaccinations needed to travel in Uzbekistan.

However, it is recommended that you get vaccinations for DTP, Hepatitis A, and typhoid especially if you are planning on traveling to more remote villages.

The 26 most beautiful and best places to visit in Uzbekistan

2. When is the best time to visit Uzbekistan?

The best time to visit Uzbekistan is in spring (mid-April –  beginning of June) or autumn (mid-September – beginning of November). The temperatures during these seasons are very pleasant and it shouldn’t be too hot to walk around during the day.

Soaring temperatures usually start from the beginning of June until mid-September. When planning your travels in Uzbekistan, it’s also good to know that most of the country’s major events take place in either spring or autumn. 

2.1 What is the hottest month in Uzbekistan?

July and August are the hottest months of the year in Uzbekistan. With temperatures ranging from 35 ° C to sometimes even up to 40 ° – 45 ° C, visiting Uzbekistan during the summer can be quite uncomfortable.

It’s good to have this in mind if you are planning any long overland journeys as the sun is very strong.

2.2 Should I visit Uzbekistan in Winter?

Winter is a great time to visit Uzbekistan for anyone who wants to avoid crowds. The temperatures are not that cold, it can be sunny and crowds of tourists are nonexistent.

The chance of rain increases from mid-March, but March and April are still quiet months to visit.

Winter in Uzbekistan is very special and if it snows, you’ll get to see a magical winter wonderland. That’s why I once traveled to Uzbekistan in December. Unfortunately, I arrived a bit too late (or was it too early?) to see the cities fully covered in snow. 

It had snowed several days before my arrival and I could only enjoy the last bits of it in the capital Tashkent. In other cities, the snow had already disappeared by the time I arrived there. 

Another advantage of traveling during winter is that in the low season, the hotels and hostels are cheaper. 

3. Travel Insurance for Uzbekistan

It isn’t mandatory to have travel insurance if you are traveling to Uzbekistan. However, I would suggest getting one for the period of your trip. You just never know when you might need it …

If you don’t have travel insurance yet, I highly recommend HeyMondo as it covers both medical costs and theft.

What are the 3 best budget-friendly travel insurance companies

Need Travel Insurance for Central Asia ? I use and highly recommend HeyMondo Travel Insurance . As a reader of Journal of Nomads, you get a 5% discount off your insurance plan!

4. What is the best way to get to Uzbekistan?

4.1 where do you fly into uzbekistan.

Tashkent and Samarkand both have international airports. Tashkent International Airport is the most popular arrival destination into Uzbekistan and because the airport is fairly small, you would struggle to get lost.

There is a currency exchange office in the airport that offers a good exchange rate if you have US Dollars. There are nowadays also ATMs available in the airport of Tashkent where you can take out and exchange US Dollars and Uzbek som (see 7.5 How much money should I take to Uzbekistan ).

How to get from the airport to Tashkent city center by taxi and how much does it cost?

It’s a 30-minute drive to get from the airport to the city center of Tashkent by taxi.

As soon as you exit the airport, you’ll be greeted by many eager taxi drivers who are happy to bring you to the city center of Tashkent for 50.000 Uzbek som.

This is the same rate as the “official” taxi office in the airport, which doesn’t make sense as the standard price for a taxi from the airport to the city center of Tashkent is 25.000 som (around US$2 – US$3).  

This means you’ll have to negotiate the price with the driver and you might not feel like playing the bargaining game after a long flight. So here’s a good personal tip. 

When you exit the airport, ignore the taxi drivers who are standing at the gate. Walk to the left towards the parking lot across ‘Departures’. There you’ll find taxi drivers who just drove travelers from the city center to the airport. 

They’ll be happy to quickly return to the city center and therefore are a lot easier to negotiate with. Offer the driver max 25.000 som. Show him the money and tell him to take it or leave it. He’ll probably try to ask for more but as soon as you start walking towards another taxi, he’ll very likely take it…

Another tip: if you buy a SIM card at the airport, install the Yandex Go app on your phone. This app works like Uber and shows you the taxi rates.

How to get from the airport to Tashkent city center by bus and how much does it cost?

There are buses that run daily from 6 am until 11 pm between the airport and the city center.

When you exit the airport, walk past the parking lot and you’ll see them on your left.  A bus ticket costs 1200 som and can be bought on the bus itself. 

As there are different buses, it might be hard to figure out which bus to take. The apps Maps.me and wikiroutes can help you to see which bus and route to take to your hotel. Bus #67 goes straight to the city center. 

How to get from Tashkent City center to the airport and how much does it cost?

The easiest and most straightforward way is to ask the receptionist of your hostel or hotel to call a taxi for you. You can also install the app Yandex Go to order a taxi.

A taxi from the city of Tashkent to the airport will cost around 20.000 som, depending on where you are in the city.

Top Things to do in Tashkent – Tashkent City Guide

4.2 How to travel to Uzbekistan by road ?

Uzbekistan shares land borders with Afghanistan, Turkmenistan, Kazakhstan , Kyrgyzstan , and Tajikistan .

The security at the overland border points used to be very strict . Not only did you have to fill in a lot of paperwork, but you were also asked many questions about your trip and your bag would be opened and the contents searched for any prohibited items.

Nowadays, border crossings tend not to take so long. Border guards will still scan your luggage, ask if you’re traveling with a drone (which is strictly prohibited!) but they are not as strict as they used to once be. It’s rare that you will be asked to open your bag to be searched and you’re not required to fill in any paperwork.

Overland border crossings are now faster and far easier than they were. You should check online for up-to-date information, as borders can close without notice. All travel to the Termez region and to within 5km of the Uzbekistan-Afghanistan border is not advised at the moment.

Caution should be exercised in some areas bordering Tajikistan . The border between Uzbekistan and Afghanistan is currently closed.

The most common and easiest routes to travel overland to Uzbekistan are:

• From Almaty (Kazakhstan) to Tashkent by bus and train
• From Shymkent (Kazakhstan) to Tashkent by bus and train
• From Osh (Kyrgyzstan) to Tashkent by bus, train or shared taxi
• From Bishkek (Kyrgyzstan) to Tashkent by bus
• From Penjikent (Tajikistan) to Samarkand by shared taxi
• From Khudjand (Tajikistan) to Tashkent by bus

6 Best Places to visit in the Fergana Valley – The Complete Travel Guide

5. Where should you go in Uzbekistan?

5.1 top silk road cities to visit in uzbekistan.

If you’re going to travel in Uzbekistan to find treasures of the ancient Silk Road, you should visit the following 5 cities to see the most stunning and impressive Islamic architecture in the entire country:

The majority of these sites are inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage list.

5.2 More interesting places to visit in Uzbekistan

The country has, of course, more to offer than only beautiful Silk Road cities. If you want to go off-the-beaten path, you can visit the follow destinations in Uzbekistan:

• the Fergana Valley
• Karakalpakstan , an autonomous republic of Uzbekistan
• the Aral Sea and the ship graveyard in Moynoq
• hiking in the Nuratau and Chimgan Mountains

5.3 How many days do you need for Uzbekistan?

If you’re wondering how many days you need to visit Uzbekistan, then it’s kind of an open-ended question. It would be possible to visit the main tourist attractions in Uzbekistan within one week.

If you’re not time-restricted, I’d recommend at least 10 days to fully absorb everything this country has on offer.

Tourism in Uzbekistan is an economy that is growing larger and becoming more popular as time passes. I would urge you to plan a trip to soak up the sights before it perhaps becomes super touristy.

Uzbekistan itinerary suggestions: visit Uzbekistan in 1 to 4 weeks

6. Is Uzbekistan a safe country to visit?

Many people wonder if it’s safe to travel in Uzbekistan. It’s still a relatively unknown country in Central Asia and its neighboring country Afghanistan doesn’t have the best reputation. A country ending with -stan gets quickly associated with danger.

However, you absolutely have nothing to worry about! Uzbekistan is totally safe. You’ll see police officers on every street corner and at every public place. They even introduced a “Tourist Police” now. There Tourist Police officers have an office in every touristic city and are glad to be of any assistance when needed.

Tourism is a rich source of income and the Uzbeks genuinely want you to have a fantastic experience in their country. They are very hospitable and kind people and you’ll be received as a very welcome guest.

One of the most common scams in Uzbekistan is getting overcharged by taxi drivers. It starts as soon as you arrive at the airport or at any land border. The taxi drivers will usually charge you double or triple the standard rate.

You have to bargain hard and have a lot of patience to get the price down. If you’re not sure what the normal price is, try to get at least half the price of what the driver is offering you or install Yandex Go as this app will show you the rates upfront.

Another scam you have to be careful of is when you visit monuments or museums. When you pay the entrance fee, make sure that they don’t charge you automatically for a guide. In some places, especially in Samarkand , you have to pay extra if you want to take photos (with a camera, not with your phone).

Some ticket offices will automatically include a camera price or pretend there is one. If you’re in doubt, ask for the price list as every ticket office should have one, and check if you’re paying the correct fee.

Is Uzbekistan safe? 1 4 useful safety tips

Uzbekistan solo travel/ Is Uzbekistan safe to travel alone?

Yes, Uzbekistan is a very safe country to visit for solo (female) travelers! When I first traveled on my own to Uzbekistan in 2017, I was a bit anxious but I quickly experienced I had nothing to worry about.

The Uzbeks are very kind and hospitable, welcome you as a guest in their country and they want you to enjoy yourself.

How is it to travel alone as a woman in Uzbekistan?

7. Money and currency in Uzbekistan

7.1 what kind of money do they use in uzbekistan.

The Uzbekistani Som (UZS) is the official currency used in Uzbekistan.

• Banknotes circulating in Uzbekistan: 1000, 2000, 5000, 10,000, 20,000, 50,000 and 100,000 som.
• Coins circulating in Uzbekistan: 50, 100, 200 and 500 som

I always use the  Xe.com app  to convert and stay up-to-date with the current exchange rates. At this time of writing, the current exchange rates are ( November 2023) :

• $1 USD = 12,300 UZS
• €1 Euro = 13,000 UZS
• £1 British Pound = 15,000 UZS

Only a few years ago, the highest denomination available was a banknote of 5000 Uzbeki Som. I needed an extra bag to carry the 2400 banknotes after exchanging 150 US dollars for 1.200.000 Som…

The new banknotes of 10.000, 50.000, and 100.000 UZS make a huge difference in size and weight in your wallet (and the amount of time spent on counting your change…).

7.2 Which credit cards are accepted in Uzbekistan?

Visa is probably the most widely accepted credit card in hotels and restaurants. However, Uzbekistan still has a cash economy which means you won’t always be able to pay with your credit card.

It is slowly becoming more common practice, but it would be wise to carry some cash rather than depending on your card whilst traveling in Uzbekistan. 

7.3 ATMs in Uzbekistan

Tashkent, Samarkand, Bukhara, and Khiva nowadays all have ATMs where you can take out US dollars and/or Uzbek Som with a VISA card. There are also 2 ATMs at the international airport in Tashkent. 

7.4 Exchanging money in Uzbekistan

The best place to exchange money in Uzbekistan is at one of the banks in Tashkent as they give the best exchange rate.

Just keep in mind that if you want to exchange money, your banknotes should be crisp and in good condition . It happened a few times that the exchange office gave me a lower rate as my banknotes were a little crumpled. 

Before you leave Uzbekistan, you can exchange your remaining Som at the bank or in one of the exchange offices at either the airport or at the land borders.

Update: You can nowadays also pay with Euro and US dollar bills in shops, restaurants, at the hotel, to guides and drivers,…

7.5 How much money do you need in Uzbekistan?

You may be wondering whether it is cheap to visit Uzbekistan? The average monthly wage in Uzbekistan is $300 which is useful to keep in mind.

With most people traveling to Uzbekistan visa-free these days, it’s pretty inexpensive to get around Uzbekistan. Although basic accommodation is not dirt cheap due to a convoluted tax code.

For a 10-day trip, depending on the activities you want to do, I would recommend taking 600 USD or Euro per person in cash to Uzbekistan (if you’re not planning on using your credit card).

Average prices are $10 for a basic meal, $15 for a hostel bed and $30 upwards for a double room in a decent hotel, and $10 for a train ticket.

Uzbekistan Money Guide: How much does it cost to travel in Uzbekistan?

7.6 Should you tip in Uzbekistan?

You don’t have to leave a tip in the restaurant as the service is automatically included in the bill. However, this is not mentioned on the menu and a lot of foreigners get confused or think they’re being overcharged once they receive the bill.

If you take a look at the bottom of the bill, you will see the service fee of 10 -15% added to the total cost of your meal.

Tipping your guide or driver is not mandatory but is getting lately more and more expected… I usually give an additional 10% tip on top of the price.

8. How to get around in Uzbekistan/Is it easy to travel around Uzbekistan?

8.1 are there trains in uzbekistan.

Yes, there are trains in Uzbekistan and the Uzbekistan railroad is the most convenient, interesting and fastest way to travel around the country!

The Uzbekistan railway connects now all the major touristic destinations: Tashkent , Samarkand , Bukhara , and – since December 2018 – Khiva . 

There are three types of trains (and I’ve tested them all!): the Afrosiyob , the Sharq  and the Night Train .

In my post Taking trains in Uzbekistan – The Uzbekistan railways guide , you’ll find a complete guide to the Uzbekistan train system, including information on taking the Uzbekistan high-speed rail, the Uzbekistan Sharq train and the Uzbekistan night train.

The Complete Guide to Train Travel in Uzbekistan

8.2 How to travel around Uzbekistan by bus

If you prefer to see the road instead of the railway, you can travel around Uzbekistan by bus. You can check the bus schedules and buy your ticket online or at the local bus stations. You’ll need your passport so bring it with you. You should also buy your ticket at least one day in advance.

Long distance buses are a slow and not very comfortable way to get around,  as well as not being much cheaper than a second class train or a ride with a shared taxi.

City buses are very cheap and you pay the fare directly to the driver on the bus. You can check the bus routes within cities on the apps maps.me and wikiroutes .

You’ll also see many minibuses racing around the cities. The most common ones are the ‘Damas’. These minibuses are great if you want to travel in a larger city or to travel to nearby towns or villages.

8.3 Getting around Uzbekistan by shared taxi

A shared taxi is a taxi that you share with usually 4 to 5 other passengers. It doesn’t have a fixed schedule but leaves once the taxi is full. They leave from a fixed location which is often near a bus station or just outside of a city.

Your hostel or hotel will know where to find them and you usually won’t have to search long for one. The drivers will probably find you first, they’ll ask where you’re going or they’ll be shouting out their destinations to you.

Be careful because they can be quite pushy and they like to double the rate if they think you’re an ignorant tourist. That’s why it’s a good plan to have an idea of how much you should pay for a ride beforehand and you can ask about this in your hotel or hostel.

Before you get into a shared taxi, confirm the price with the driver and tell him clearly that you want to share the taxi with other passengers. It can happen that the driver may think that you’d like to have the taxi to yourself and if you don’t want to share a taxi, you’ll have to pay for the other seats as well.

A trip of 2 to 3 hours to another city will cost you around 60.000 UZS, depending on how good you are at bargaining.

You can also take a private taxi to get around cities. Just flag them down on the side of the road. You should pay a maximum of 8.000 UZS for a ride within the city.

Taking a shared taxi used to be the only way to travel from Bukhara to Urgench and Khiva. This trip costs 80.000 UZS and isn’t very comfortable as it’s an 8-hour long drive, mainly through the desert. Since there is a train nowadays that connects Bukhara and Khiva, I’d go for this option.

You can also take a private taxi to get around cities . Just flag them down on the side of the road or, if you have a sim card, install the Yandex Go app   on your phone. The app functions like Uber.

Pay a maximum of 10.000 UZS for a ride within the city . 

If you’re visiting Tashkent, you can also get around the city by metro.  The Tashkent Metro Stations are very beautiful and taking the underground should be one of the things you definitely have to do while visiting Uzbekistan’s capital!

The 1 3 m o s t b e a u t i f u l m e t r o s t a t i o n s i n T a s h k e n t

8.4 Renting a car in Uzbekistan

It used to be impossible for foreigners to rent a car in Uzbekistan. This has changed and now you can find several car rental places in Tashkent . 

You can also travel to Uzbekistan with your own car, as long as you have all the required documents. More information can be found here .

It’s important to note that it’s very difficult to find diesel; propane is the main fuel in Uzbekistan, petrol comes in second. It’s also worth noting that some secondary roads can be difficult to drive on unless you have a 4×4. 

Check out the website of Caravanistan for more information on traveling by car in Uzbekistan.

8.5 Hitchhiking in Uzbekistan

Hitchhiking in Uzbekistan is possible and a fun way to connect with the locals. One thing you have to know is that most drivers will charge you money for the ride.

Be very clear from the start that you don’t have money if you don’t want to pay for the ride.

If you want to hitchhike, it wouldn’t be a bad idea to learn some Russian so you can explain your intentions to the driver and have a conversation with him. 

8.6 Domestic flights in Uzbekistan

If you don’t have much time and you want to cover the distance between Tashkent and Khiva quickly, you can take a domestic flight between Tashkent and Nukus or Tashkent and Urgench. Urgench is a 30-minute drive from Khiva.

The duration of the flight between Tashkent and Urgench is only 1.5 hours, between Tashkent and Nukus 1 hour and 40 minutes. You can book easily your flight ticket(s) on the website of Uzbekistan Airways.

If you book well in advance, the average price for a flight between Tashkent and Urgench costs 60USD. You can pay online by Visa and Mastercard.  

Important: When arranging a taxi to drop you off at the domestic airport, make sure the driver brings you to terminal 3 (domestic flights) and not terminal 2 (international flights).

When using the Yandex Go app, it will only show you “Tashkent International Airport”. Make sure you type in “Tashkent International Airport Terminal 3” , or you’ll end up at the wrong terminal!

Top Things to do in Khiva – The Complete Guide to Uzbekistan’s Open-Air Museum

9. Uzbekistan Tours

Uzbekistan could be described as one of the most special yet overlooked countries in the world that is brimming with natural beauty and rich with culture. Going on an organized private/group tour is a wonderful and worthwhile way to see some of this country’s most beautiful spots.

I recommend checking out some of these guided city tours in the Silk Road cities in Uzbekistan as you don’t only get to see the highlights of the city but also learn more about the rich historical background.

10. Where to stay in Uzbekistan – Accommodation in Uzbekistan

It used to be illegal to stay with a host family in Uzbekistan. Travelers had to register every night in a hotel or hostel. These rules have since become more flexible. 

Nowadays you’re allowed to camp, stay with a host family or book a room or apartment on Airbnb for 3 nights in a row without having to register. If you stay longer than 3 nights, you will need to check again in order to register.

The registration happens automatically as soon as you check in and payment for this registration is in the form of a “city tax” which is usually $3 per night.

The receptionist will ask for your passport and register you online. Sometimes you’ll receive a registration slip upon check-out, which you should keep in case the border guards would ask for them when leaving the country (although, I haven’t noticed them doing this in the past 2 years). Nowadays, all your stays should be registered online and traceable via your passport.

If you take the overnight train, this ticket is also seen as registration, so don’t throw this one away. If you’re overlanding and/or planning to regularly camp in the wild or stay with a local family, you have to register online on Emehmon .

If you’re having trouble with your online registration, I’d recommend staying in a ho(s)tel every 3 to 4 nights, just to have some proof of registration.

10.1 Hostels, hotels and Airbnb in Uzbekistan

Because of the growing number of tourists traveling in Uzbekistan, there are many new hostels and hotels appearing in all of the larger cities. It’s important to remember the $3 city tax that is added (or sometimes already included) in the price of your accommodation per night.

Booking.com is a great website to use when looking for hostels and hotels whilst staying in Uzbekistan and Airbnb also has many great apartment options to choose from. It all is just dependent on what your budget is.

There are some lovely options for independent and solo travelers such as small-scale boutique hotels or B&B’s. There is a wide range of high-quality hotels in Uzbekistan but keep in mind that the tourist economy is still developing in Uzbekistan.

During the high season, many of the rooms can be booked up weeks in advance, so if you know your itinerary , book early to avoid disappointment.

Not all of the hotels available are online yet so there may be a chance of securing a room for the night upon spontaneous arrival at a hotel and booking on the spot.

If you plan on visiting Uzbekistan during Winter, keep in mind that electricity black-outs can be an issue and in the Summer the hot water can sometimes be turned off. You can ask at reception if this is likely to happen during your stay.

10.2 Homestays in Uzbekistan

If you’re drawn to spending a few days in the countryside soaking up the Uzbek culture then a homestay is for you.

There is a network of homestays in the Nuratau mountains as well as in the village of Katta Langar near Shahrisabz . Vegetarian meals, solar-powered showers, and clean toilets are all available.

6 Fantastic Hiking Trails in the Nuratau and Chimgan Mountains in Uzbekistan

10.3 Staying in a yurt in Uzbekistan

Some of the people in Karakalpakstan still live in yurts for part of the year as they are culturally much closer to Kazakhs and Turkmens than to Uzbeks.

There are some desert yurt camps in the Kyzyl Kum and Aral Kum deserts and also near Urgench. These have been specifically set up for tourists so if you have your heart set on staying in a yurt, you can experience it here.

However, budget for this before you set off on your trip as they can be quite expensive.

How to visit the ship graveyard in Moynaq and the Aral Sea Disaster in Uzbekistan

10.4 Camping in Uzbekistan

Wild camping is permitted in Uzbekistan so why not take the opportunity to sleep under the stars whilst on your Uzbekistan trip. Why not camp in the mountains near Samarkand and Tashkent or in the desert for epic and atmospheric starlit skies.

It’s important that you are aware of the registration rules and it’s a good idea to camp for only a couple of nights before then booking into a hostel or hotel in order to fill in your registration card.

11. Uzbekistan Food and drinks

Uzbek food is characterized by meals including noodles, mutton, rice, and vegetables.

Traditional bread (tandir non) is particularly sacred in Uzbek culture. Flat and round, this bread is torn by hand and never thrown out.

The summers bring fresh, delicious and vibrant fruits that you can buy at the local markets along with vegetables, spices and sweet Uzbek candy.

Green tea is often drunk regularly throughout the day and is a common drink offered to guests.

There are many international restaurants in the larger more touristic cities if you find that you are craving a change from traditional Uzbek cuisine. 

11.1 5 Uzbek Dishes you have to try

Trying local cuisine and traditional dishes is a great way to experience a country’s culture.

‘Plov’ is the national dish of Uzbekistan and it’s one that Uzbeks are extremely proud of. It is commonly made as a family meal or made in larger quantities to celebrate special occasions such as weddings.

It is traditionally prepared in a large cooking pot (a Kazan) and the most famous version is made with a base of onions, carrots, and meat that is sautéed in fat.

The rice is then added, topped up with water and simmered until everything is cooked. Sometimes additional ingredients are added such as chickpeas, other vegetables, raisins, and fruit.

2) Shashlik

If you’re a fan of meat dishes, then you should try ‘shashlik’. Not only is it one of the most popular dishes in Uzbek cuisine, but it’s also a dish that is enjoyed right across Central Asia.

The word ‘shashlik’ comes from the Russian word for ‘shish kabob’. Traditionally, the dish is made with lamb however beef, chicken, and venison can be used instead. Or if you’re feeling adventurous, you could try the grilled skewers with horse meat.

3) Kazan Kabob

‘Kazan kabob’, as its name suggests, is a dish that is prepared in a kazan, a large cooking pot also commonly used to make plov.

Marinated meat such as mutton or beef is fried with potatoes and then covered and steamed in a kazan on a low heat. When the meat is fully cooked it is finally served with onions and some fresh vegetables.

‘Obi non’, also known as ‘lepyoshka’, is a type of round, flat Uzbek bread that has been baked in a traditional clay oven called a ‘tandyr’. Similar to Indian naan bread, it’s thicker and then decorated on top. Additional meat, nuts, seeds and raisins are sometimes added.

It is considered one of the most important foods in Uzbekistan and is eaten with just about anything. It can be made in a variety of ways and changes slightly from region to region.

5) Shivit oshi

‘Shivit oshi’, also known as ‘khorezm lagman’ is an eye-catching Uzbek dish. Hand-pulled Lagman noodles are infused with fresh dill which gives them their distinctive bright green color. The dish originates from Khiva .

Fresh herbs and vegetables feature more in cuisine in this region in comparison to other areas in Uzbekistan. It’s a summer dish that is served only in Khiva and is traditionally topped with a meat and vegetable stew and a side of sour cream or yogurt.

11.2 Is vegetarian food available in Uzbekistan?

If you happen to be a vegetarian, visiting Uzbekistan and finding a meat-free meal can sometimes be tricky but not impossible. When visiting the cities, it’s quite common to find vegetarian options available in many of the restaurants.

Some vegetarian dishes available are eggplant satay with egg, pumpkin-filled dumplings and vegetarian flatbread (lavash) filled with cheese and tomato.

However, the main issue with eating vegetarian food in Central Asia is the bacteria in the water that is used to wash and rinse them. If there is a choice between a raw salad or a cooked meal, it’s wise to choose the cooked option.

If you happen to be a vegan, you may struggle to find a wide variety of choices available to you without dairy or meat.

11.3 What is the national drink of Uzbekistan?

Uzbek people are really big tea drinkers. Green tea or ‘Kuk-choy’ is served in a bowl or a glass and all meals start and end with tea.

Tea is offered as a gesture when welcoming guests into a home. If you happen to be poured a half-full bowl of tea, see it as a gesture of respect from the pourer.

12. What to pack for Uzbekistan?

Let’s start with a few things that you are NOT allowed to bring into Uzbekistan

12.1 Prohibited items – what is forbidden to bring to Uzbekistan.

Some guards might check your phone or laptop for any pornographic content (photos or videos of naked people) which is forbidden and will have to be deleted before entering Uzbekistan (I’m sure you can travel without for a while).

It also used to be strictly forbidden to bring painkillers with codeine, sleeping pills, antidepressants or any other medication with narcotic substances in the country. Nowadays the border guards don’t check the medication you’re bringing with you.

However, if you are bringing medication with you, ensure you keep things in their original packaging if you bring them from overseas. If you have a prescription, make sure it has the same name as on your passport.

And – unfortunately – drones are still prohibited .

12.2 What should I wear in Uzbekistan?

Uzbekistan has a continental climate with four seasons. Pack appropriate clothes for the period in which you’re traveling.

If you’re traveling to Uzbekistan in winter (November – March), bring warm clothes as it can be very cold. Average Winter temperatures can be around -10°C/ 14°F and there can be a lot of snow.

Pack light clothing if you’re visiting Uzbekistan between the months of June and September as the temperatures in summer are around 38°C/ 97°F.

Uzbekistan is a secular state which means that in theory, people can wear whatever they want. However, the Uzbek people are rather conservative people who do not show much skin so it’s important to keep this in mind when packing.

Men can wear shorts and T-shirts but it’s better to leave any sleeveless shirts at home. It’s also not appropriate to walk around bare-chested.

You’ll see many Uzbek women wearing beautiful colored scarves tied around their heads. This is a cultural thing and it’s mainly older Uzbek women who wear these. Younger female travelers need not worry about covering their hair.

What is seen as appropriate will depend on where you’re going. Tashkent, the capital, is a modern city and many young girls and women walk around in short skirts, dresses, and shorts.

It’s okay if you wear shorts, dresses, skirts and tops or T-shirts with short sleeves in tourist places like Samarkand, Bukhara and Khiva. But it would be viewed as disrespectful to parade around in revealing mini-skirts, dresses and tops. You’ll draw unwanted attention to yourself.

If you like to explore less-touristic places like small towns and villages, dress modestly. Wear a T-shirt or a tunic over long trousers or a long skirt. Three-quarter pants or skirts are also fine, just don’t walk around the village in a vest top and short shorts.

If you visit mosques and religious sites, even in touristic cities, cover your arms. If you’re an influencer who wants a nice photo for Instagram, please remain respectful of the culture in Uzbekistan.

12.3 Travel essentials for Uzbekistan

• Water Filter Bottl e : I wouldn’t advise you to drink tap water in Uzbekistan. Buy bottles of water in the local supermarkets or better, bring a water bottle with a filter . These are reusable bottles that filter water using a microfiltration device. When you drink tap water using a water bottle with a filter, any dirt, bacteria or parasites will be trapped in the fibers of the filter, while the clean water passes through. It’s not only good for your belly and wallet, but it’s also great for the environment because you don’t have to buy any plastic bottles of water. I use and highly recommend the  Lifestraw Water Filter Bottle . 
• Anti-diarrhea tablets: yes, I’m afraid that this is an essential as well… 50% of the travelers I’ve met struggle at some point with stomach issues, due to a certain bacteria in the food. I always have Furazolidone tablets (which you can buy over the counter at a local pharmacy) as it has proven its worth. These tablets tackle the bacteria causing bowel problems within a day.
• International travel adapt or : the power sockets in Uzbekistan are of type C and F (the same as in Europe). The standard voltage is 220 V and the standard frequency is 50 Hz. In case you need an adaptor, I use and recommend this  all-in-one Universal Travel Adaptor  as you can use it worldwide.
• Power bank :  a power bank is always handy to have with you in case of a power outage (which sometimes happens, even in the major Uzbek cities), during long bus or train rides, or if you’re planning to go camping.I use and recommend  Anker Power Bank   as it has a 20,000mAh cell capacity providing at least 5 full charges for my phone. I can even charge my camera batteries with it!
• Anti-theft money belt : handy and safe when you travel with cash
• Photography equipment: you can’t visit Uzbekistan without capturing its beauty on camera! Below is an overview of the gear I used. You can also see my article on  photography essentials and cameras for travel photographers  for more information.
• Camera: Panasonic LUMIX DC-90
• Main lens: Panasonic Lumix G Vario 14-140mm f/3.5-5.6
• Wide-angle lens : Leica DG Vario-ELMARIT 8-18mm f/2.8-4.0
• Prime lens: Leica DG Summilux 15mm f/1.7
• Tripod: Manfrotto Compact Action Tripod (Hybrid Head)

13. Are drones allowed in Uzbekistan?

Drones in Uzbekistan are strictly prohibited. Operating, selling, importing, or buying a drone in Uzbekistan could even result in a prison sentence.

7 Best Places to visit in Karakalpakstan – The Complete Travel Guide

14. How is the Internet in Uzbekistan?

The internet connection in Uzbekistan isn’t always the best so downloading city maps for offline usage and bringing an old-fashioned travel guidebook with you will be useful.

The wi-fi connection in big cities like Tashkent and Samarkand is usually reliable and relatively fast. There’s also internet connection in Bukhara and Khiva but it can be slow.

It’s difficult to find a good internet connection when you travel to more remote areas.

14.1 Which is the best sim card in Uzbekistan and how to get one?

There are 5 main mobile phone providers in Uzbekistan: Ucell, Uzmobile, UCell, UMS, and Beeline.

The coverage with Ucell is pretty good and $7 will get you 22GB of data. You have to bring your passport with you to buy a SIM card and you must provide a registration slip of your ho(s)tel to have a SIM card registered to your name.

Update: you can now easily buy a SIM card at the airport in Tashkent upon arrival.

14.2 Uzbekistan Wi-Fi rental services

If you need to stay connected at all times during your trip (work or personal reasons), you can also opt to rent a Wi-Fi pocket device in Uzbekistan .

This device works like a home wi-fi router and allows you to stay connected at all times. It also has unlimited date plans and you can use the connection on multiple devices and even share it with your fellow travelers. You can read more about this Wi-Fi service here .

14.3 Recommended apps for travel in Uzbekistan

Here are some useful apps to use while traveling in Uzbekistan:

• Maps.me : This is a very practical app to find your way in Uzbekistan. You can download the map of the country for offline usage. The app gives you accurate directions and shows you where you can find the nearest restaurants, bus stations, ATM, hotels, places with wi-fi, points of interest. It also tells you the number of the bus you need to take when you travel within a city.
• Wikiroutes : Wikiroutes is a handy app if you travel by public transportation. It shows you the bus and/or metro route and tells you where to hop on and off. 
• Google Translate :   Translates written and spoken Russian or Uzbek. Only Russian is available to download for offline usage.
• Xe currency:   a very handy currency conversion app that always uses the latest rates in effect. It’s useful to keep track of how much things cost in Uzbekistan This app also works offline.
• Booking.com : I made all my reservations for hostels and guesthouses in Uzbekistan through this hotel and hostel booking website, which is also available as a phone app. No other app comes close to it in terms of inventory and price.
• Yandex Go Taxi : Yandex is the Central Asian version of Uber. I used this app to get around the major cities in Uzbekistan by taxi without having to bargain for the price and/or getting ripped off by a taxi driver. You can also use Yoko Taxi for getting around Bukhara.

15. Culture and etiquette in Uzbekistan

The Uzbek people of today hail from Turkic and Persian people who lived along the country’s borders and Turkic-Mongol nomads. During the Soviet rule, many other nationalities living in Uzbekistan were labeled Uzbeks in an effort to create more easily governable subdivisions.

Today, under the Islamic faith, women are expected to cover their bodies when in public. Although full veils are not that common, there are areas where it still is expected.

Elders in Uzbek culture are very highly respected and it’s customary for men to greet one another with a handshake. And overall Uzbek people try to carry themselves with dignity and patience.

Here are some handy tips:

• Bread is sacred in Uzbekistan. Try not to leave chunks on your plate or drop it on the floor. Especially don’t put it under your lap and save for later and, even worse, throw it in the bin (this will deeply upset the people)!
• Remove your shoes before going inside a guesthouse, homestay or any home. Even if you don’t need to, it’s a sign of respect.
• Don’t blow your nose at the table. Apparently it’s incredibly disrespectful and it will not go down well. By all means, itch your nose or wipe away snot with a tissue, but don’t go gung-ho and start emptying the bats in the cave.
• Veggies/vegans! When traveling in the cities and eating at restaurants, you’ll be fine. But… if you’re staying at guesthouses or homestays in the mountains, it’s a huge sign of honour for the hosts to present the guest with meat at dinner. You could try not eating the meat but it would be pretty disrespectful. I don’t eat meat in Europe but appreciated where I was and how kind it was of the host to cook me it and dove in. Same goes for the other dishes with dairy etc really.

16. What is the Religion in Uzbekistan

Uzbekistan is a secular state. When the country was under the control of the Soviet regime, religious practices were dramatically suppressed. It was only after the fall of the Soviet Union in 1991 that the country gained back religious freedom.

Around 90% of the population are Sunni Muslim and the rest are Russian Orthodox. And though many people actively practice their religion, they can be quite liberal in their views about it. 

You’ll see women wearing headscarves but this is more connected to the culture than to the religion.

As a foreign woman, you’re not expected to cover your hair. There’s also no strict dress code (as you could read in 12.2 What to wear in Uzbekistan) that is related to religion.

17. Do people in Uzbekistan speak English?

In general, the Uzbek people don’t speak a lot of English. People who work in the hospitality sector know a bit of English but most people in Uzbekistan don’t speak the language.

Young people in the larger cities will know some English but with older people, it’s less common. However, in touristy areas, English is spoken and understood so don’t fear!

17.1 What languages are spoken in Uzbekistan?

The official language is Uzbek and it belongs to the family of Turkic languages so if you speak some Turkish, it may help you understand Uzbek a little bit. Especially the numbers are similar. My knowledge of the Turkish language helped a lot when I had to bargain with vendors and taxi drivers!

Russian is the second most commonly spoken language in Uzbekistan. Many people know and understand Russian and for 14% of the population, it’s their first language. If you can read the Cyrillic alphabet or you happen to know some Russian phrases, both would come in handy whilst traveling in Uzbekistan.

I learn a new language using the audio classes of Pimsleur . This is a great learning method to study a new language. It helped me a lot to quickly reach a basic level of Russian.

11 Tips to learn Russian quickly and effectively

I also recommend bringing a small pocket phrasebook like the Lonely Planet Centra Asia Phrasebook & Dictionary  as it contains useful phrases that you might need on your trip around Uzbekistan.

I also suggest you install the Google Translate App  for Uzbek translations (only online) and download Russian into your app that you can use offline.

17.2 Useful expressions to know before visiting Uzbekistan

• ‘Assalomu alaykum’ translates as ‘hello’ .
• ‘Salom’ means ‘good afternoon’.
• ‘Ismingiz nima?’ translates ‘What is your name?’
• ‘Tanishganimdan hursandman’ translates ‘I am glad to meet you’.
• Xayr! means Good bye!

18. Recommended books in Uzbekistan  

When traveling in Uzbekistan, I would recommend bringing a small pocket phrasebook like the Lonely Planet Central Asia Phrasebook & Dictionary as it contains some useful phrases.

I would also recommend reading one or more of the following books:

• Uzbekistan Bradt Travel Guide : one of the most comprehensive travel guide books about Uzbekistan
• Lonely Planet Central Asia , is ideal if you’re also planning on visiting other destinations in Central Asia
• The Silk Roads: A New History of the World : a journey through time, a revelatory new history of the world, connecting all the vast webs of roads to gain a greater understanding of modern history
• Uzbekistan – Culture Smart! offers an insider’s view of Uzbekistan’s fascinating history, national traditions, various cuisines, and cultural scene
• Uzbekistan: the Road to Samarkand is a stunning coffee table book with unique and luxurious, vibrant pictures that really highlight the wonders and history of Uzbekistan

I hope this guide helps you to travel around Uzbekistan with ease. I’m wishing you a fantastic time in this special country and enjoy marveling at the exquisite architecture! 

Do you still have questions about your upcoming journey to Uzbekistan? Let me know in the comments below or send me an emai l!

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57 thoughts on “the complete guide to travel in uzbekistan (2024) – 18 very useful things you need to know to visit uzbekistan”.

Hi Cynthia! At first thank you for this wonderfull and usefull Uz guide! I want to ask you if with the nowdays situation with sanctions against Russia is possible to use the app Yandex Go (a russian one) on an european smartphone or it is lock. Thank you so much

Hi Chiara, I’m able to use the app but nowadays, I’ve heard from other travelers that they unfortunately can’t access Yandex Go. I don’t know of an alternative yet. Best wishes, Cynthia

Hi Cynthia. Thank you so much for your insightful website. Do you know if it is possible to hire a driver that speaks English or a combination driver and guide one of which speaks English who could travel with my wife and I for the week we will be there?

Hi Doug, yes, that’s possible. You can send me an email (hello (at)journalofnomads.com) and I’ll help you further.

Cynthia! Your blog is so so helpful! Loads of love to you!

Thank you Paridhi! 🙂

Thank you so much for your excellent description. I will visit in last week of October,23.I am a senior Banker from Bangladesh. I have gone through the top to bottom of your literature it would be very helpful for my visit .

Hi Zulfiquer, happy to hear! Thank you for reading!

This is a great resource, Cynthia. Thanks so much for all your recommendations. I’m going to Uzbekistan in October with a group of friends and your guide is exactly what I was looking for.

Hi Rebecca, thanks so much! Wishing you all a fantastic trip!

hI FIRST OF ALL CONGRATULATIONS FOR YOUR INFOS I’m planning to go to Samarcand in october and got to know that once arrived I need to register within three days.. I am a free lance journalist writing travel reports for people on a budget so I will stay in a hostel. the hostel keeper asked me 5$ per day per registration and other rinfo say that surfing into the following site http://reg.emehmon.uz/ you can buy it on line BUT BUT BUT this site opens up but clicking on FILL IN THE FORM this is not hypertestual and doesn’t send to another proper page…. do you know or perhaps somebody who recently visited Uzbekisthan personally how to help me? thanks sauro

Hi Sauro, the website to register online often doesn’t work properly. The best way would be to do it via your hostel but they have to register you automatically and NOT charge extra for it. Guess you should check with another hostel…

Hello, Cynthia. What a comprehensive overview! I’m feeling a little wary to visit as a lone female traveler but after reading your article, I now feel excited to plan my trip. One question though, if tourists want to cross the border to Kyrgyztan and Kazakhstan, for example, are they simply allowed to do so, or must they secure a visa for those other countries (depending of course, on country of origin) beforehand? Thank you so much!

Hi Bernadette, I’m happy my article has helped you. Central Asia is fine for a solo female traveler! Whether or not you need a visa depends on the country of your passport. Kyrgyzstan and Kazakhstan offer a free visa on arrival for a lot of countries, check if your country is on the list too. Best wishes, Cynthia

Hi Cynthia, This is an amazing resource you’ve created – even better than the Brandt guide (which is now sadly 4 years out of date)! It is a treasure trove of down-to- earth, practical information which is exactly what you need. I’ve been dreaming about (and had already done all the planning) for going to Uzbekistan in May 2020. But then a little virus stopped me in my tracks. My question is: has the war in Ukraine made any difference for visitors travelling in Uzbekistan? Given the country’s previously strong links to Russia (and with a large Russian speaking minority)? Especially if you are from Europe/England which is experiencing having a very hostile relation with Russia.

Hi Ben, thanks so much! And no, the war hasn’t made any difference. You don’t have to worry about it at all. I hope you can make your dream to visit Uzbekistan soon a reality!

Hi Cynthia, sorry to border you, have you heard of Advantour which is a website that helps visitors from abroad to buy train ticket with a commission? I was not able to pay for my night train ticket from Khiva to Tashkent on May 20 (Saturday) at 16h22 as the screen freeze & I tried many times. So happened I came across the above website not sure whether I should go ahead as I don’t mind to pay a bit more so I can plan the rest & in fact I save money for accomodation. Thank you very much for your attention and have a great day! Caterlina

Hi Caterlina, yes, Advantour offers train booking services but I don’t know what their commission is. It might be worth it to be certain that you have train tickets.

Wishing you already a fantastic trip to Uzbekistan! Warm wishes, Cynthia

Thank you soooo much, have a good day…! Can’t wait to go there in May. cc

Hi Cynthia,

Excellent resource on Uzbekistan – thank you so much for creating this.

Is there a resource that you used for homestays? How did you go about finding and selecting those?

Hi Joel, I found those homestays through my local guides. If you’d be interested in visiting f.eg. the Nuratau Mountains, you can always send me an email and I’ll bring you in touch with the right people.

Enjoyed reading your guide for Uzbekistan. It dies cover almost everything that is essential. I dont have immediate plans to go there but i will use the information provided by you whenever travel to Uzbekistan beckons in us.

Thanks for this wonderful post.

Hello Harshad, thank you so much!

I came across your website when I was searching infos about Uzbekistan. A country I wanted to visit since a long time and see all this beautiful architecture.

Thank you for the massive information you put out there. It’s probably the most comprehended and most detailed travel blog I’ve seen. You have no idea how helpful the infos are to me. Even-tough I traveled a lot in my life so far, Central Asia sounds more challenging. So after reading so much on your website I feel much more comfortable to fly there and explore it. So I booked for March 23 a trip there, TAS and SKD ! Can’t wait to see it all !

Thank you very much ! Best regards and stay safe

Hi Henri, thank you so so much for your kind words and I’m very happy that my blog inspired you and helped you with planning your trip to Uzbekistan!

Wishing you an unforgettable trip! Warm wishes, Cynthia

I had a wonderful time in Uzbekistan. Much better than I anticipated ! Came back with lots of memories of friendly people who sometimes didn’t spoke English and great pictures of all the sites. Thanks to you and all the information you put out and shared with us.

Oh, that’s wonderful to hear! Thank you so much for sharing!

Hi Cynthia, I have planned a trip Almaty to Tashkent to Samarkand to Bukhara for October 8 to October 20, booked the hotels (cancelable) but now trying to use your links to pay for train tickets I have hit problems. The Uzbek site will not let me register. (I click to register and get no response, with 3 different email addresses). Any ideas?

Hi Stuart, are you trying to buy your tickets via this link ? You should be able to easily register via your Google account.

Hi Cynthia, thank you so much for the article on UZBEKITSTAN, especially all useful tips on traveling around. My family will be entering Tashkent from the Tashkent Airport in September and we need to take private taxi to Samarkand due to tight scheduale. Do you think taxi on this destination is doable and do you have any experience/recommendations on this.

Hi Alenka, as Samarkand is a 4,5-hour drive from Tashkent, I don’t think you’ll find many taxi drivers at the airport who are keen to drive this distance. What I would recommend is contacting a local tour agency to arrange private transfer. It will be easier and a lot less hassle than negotiating with a taxi driver at the airport. Hope this helps?

Hi Cynthia, thx a lot for the info… Tour agencies are quite expensive, could you recommend someone ? Also my husband researched yandex app and he thinks, we have pretty good chance getting reasonable priced taxi from the airport … if of course we can buy a SIM card on the airport.

Hi Alenka, are you looking for city guides or a tour in Uzbekistan? The Yandex app works well in Tashkent and is so handy to get fair taxi rates. You should be able to buy a SIM card at the airport. Have a great trip! I’m currently in Uzbekistan 🙂

I’m visiting Uzbekistan soon on an organised trip. I have arranged to have 4 days on my own in Tashkent before the tour starts and I have found your article very useful and reassuring. Thank you. Well done travelling young. I left it until my sixties and now have less energy and bits of my body are wearing out!!

Hi Jane, I’m happy you found my posts useful! Wishing you a fantastic trip to Uzbekistan and kuddos for still traveling at a later age!!

Thanks for the wonderful background. I will be traveling to Uzbekistan with a few other hikers in September to hike the Marco Polo Trail.

You’re welcome Mary Lou! Wishing you a fantastic adventure ahead! Let me know if you’d have more any questions 🙂

Very nicely put through. good work

Thank you Ramneek! 🙂

Thanks so much – I am travelling solo to Uzbekistan tomorrow and this was very comprehensive.

Hello Hoey, I’m very happy to hear this guide will help you with your solo journey to Uzbekistan! I’m wishing you a fantastic trip!!

Excellent article. Thank you so much for all the information and your tips. I’ve been wanting to visit Uzbekistan for a whule now.

Hi Emma, thank you so much! Now is the best time to visit Uzbekistan. It’s not such a ‘hot’ destination yet and it’s so much easier now since they started issuing visas on arrival. When are you planning on going?

Hello Cynthia! I have read your vacation experience. Thank you for sharing your holiday experience.

Hi Sora, thank you! I’m happy you enjoyed reading this post!

Hi Cynthia! Great blog post! I’m researching the destinations for a 6 months trip around Asia next year and I found your blog really helpful on Central Asia. I got a bit of bad surprise when I saw that antidepressants are not allowed in Uzbekistan, do you know of any way I could legally take them with me anyway? I know you’ve probably no experience but it can’t hurt to ask, right? Have a nice day!

Hoi Annelies! Thank you 🙂 I think that you can bring antidepressants legally with you as long as you have the prescription with you. The rules in Uzbekistan are becoming less and less strict so I don’t think they’ll give you a hard time when you can show them the prescriptions of your medication. Hope that helps! Have a beautiful day and a great trip! Know that you can always email me if you have more questions or need help with planning your trip!

Super bedankt! This blogpost answered all my questions. I’m going backpacking with a friend (2 females) in april. Felt nervous but this post made me very excited!

Hoi Nanouk, ik ben heel blij om dit te horen! You really don’t have to be nervous about traveling as a woman in Uzbekistan. Honestly, I felt the same way before I traveled there as I had no idea what to expect. But the people were super friendly and they welcome travelers with open arms! Have a great time in April and enjoy the beauty of the country!

Thanks for providing such detailed information. Uzbekistan is on my bucket list, I fell in love with the architecture. One question I had was in regard to taking in medication. You mentioned antidepressants are strictly forbidden but the attached medications list from Caravanistan doesn’t have any SSRIs or SNRIs listed (as far as I can tell). Any place I can check this for sure?

You’re very welcome! I’m glad this post is useful to you! Regarding the medication, here’s another reliable source where you can check whether or not you can take any SSRIs or SNRIs with you: http://uzbekistan.travel/en/list-of-prohibited-drugs/

When are you planning on going to Uzbekistan?

Thanks! After looking this over, it doesn’t seem to contain any antidepressants, only short term anti anxiety medications like benzodiazepines. I was thinking of going in the fall of next year, which is a while away. It’s not the easiest to find travel information on the Central Asian countries, so I wanted to do some research well beforehand.

I don’t have much knowledge about medications and what is in there but it’s good to double-check with countries like Uzbekistan 🙂 If you would have a prescription that you can show at the border and what it’s used for, you should be fine! It’s good to think ahead and do some good research so you’re well-prepared, especially in countries that are still off-the-beaten-path. Central Asia is worth it, beautiful architecture (Uzbekistan), amazing nature and landscapes (Kyrgyzstan), hospitable people,… I’ll keep writing guides and posts about these destinations in the coming months but feel free to send me an email if you’d have any more questions!

Hi cynthia, thank you somuch for the article on UZBEKITSTAN. I will be entering Tashkent from the oybek border Tajikistan, sometime in September,I have read some daunting posts about crossing the border, Iam a little nervous,any recommendations.

Hi Magalie, the border crossing isn’t as bad as many might make it sound. I was pretty nervous about it as well but if you don’t take items with you that are on their ‘illegal’ list of things, you’ll be fine! They checked my first aid kit and the books that were on my e-reader but the officials were nice and friendly so you don’t have to worry. The rules are slowly on becoming less strict (f.eg. they never checked my hotel registration papers when I left the country) and if you’re traveling as a woman alone, they’re very respectful to you. I wish you happy and safe travels and let me know if there’s anything else I can help you with!

I’ve been wanting to visit Uzbekistan for a while, partly because of the amazing architecture! This was great to read and really interesting. It sounds pretty strict.Thanks for sharing your tips and advice!

Hey Mike! Thank you! 🙂 It sounds strict but once you’ve passed the border, it’s actually really fine. The people are very nice and yes, the architecture is stunning! Any idea yet when you will go?

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Russian President Putin Arrives in Uzbekistan, Third Foreign Trip Since Re-Election

Tashkent, Uzbekistan May 26, 2024. Sputnik/Mikhail Metzel/Pool via REUTERS

(Reuters) - Russian President Vladimir Putin, making his third foreign trip since his re-election in March, arrived in ex-Soviet Uzbekistan on Sunday and met with his counterpart Shavkat Mirziyoyev ahead of the start of formal talks.

Russian news agencies said Mirziyoyev met Putin on arrival in Tashkent in the evening and the two leaders travelled together in a single car.

Photos and video footage posted on the Kremlin website and by Russian news agencies showed Putin visiting the New Uzbekistan park in Tashkent and laying a wreath at a monument to Uzbek independence.

Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov, quoted by news agencies, told Russian television that Russia was open to broader cooperation on gas supplies with Uzbekistan, saying "the possibilities here are very extensive".

Putin has already visited China and Belarus since securing re-election by a wide margin.

The Kremlin leader has travelled abroad only infrequently since the start of Moscow's invasion of Ukraine in February 2022.

The International Criminal Court issued a warrant for his arrest last March on suspicion of illegally deporting hundreds of children from Ukraine. The Kremlin denies those allegations.

The Latest Photos From Ukraine

(Reporting by Reuters; Editing by Diane Craft)

Copyright 2024 Thomson Reuters .

Photos You Should See - May 2024

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Tags: Ukraine , Russia , United States , Uzbekistan , Europe

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