Silk Road to the Aral Sea: Uzbekistan in Depth
Small Group Holiday
15
CA$
days from
4940
This journey through Uzbekistan offers an in-depth exploration of its historic cities, diverse landscapes, and cultural heritage. Starting in Tashkent, the capital, we experience its Soviet-influenced architecture, vibrant squares, and significant monuments. Travelling by high-speed train to Samarkand, we delve into the grandeur of the Silk Road, visiting iconic landmarks such as Registan Square, mausoleums, and bustling bazaars. Samarkand also provides opportunities to witness traditional crafts, including ceramics and silk paper-making.
From there, the journey shifts to the scenic Nurata Mountains, where we experience life in a mountain village, cook with locals, and enjoy tranquil walks. A stay in the Kyzylkum Desert offers a unique night in a yurt camp, camel rides, and a chance to relax by Aydarkul Lake. Heading north, we confront the environmental tragedy of the Aral Sea near Moynaq and visit Nukus to explore its art and history.
Khiva and Bukhara reveal Uzbekistan’s rich architectural heritage with their well-preserved old towns, fortresses, palaces, and mosques. The journey concludes with a visit to the Chimgan Mountains and a fascinating solar furnace in Tashkent. This itinerary balances cultural immersion, natural beauty, and historical discovery, offering a comprehensive understanding of Uzbekistan.
Photo credit ship on shore: Ecpirolli, CC BY 4.0 via Wikimedia Commons
Activity / Theme
Country
Culture
Uzbekistan
Comfort Level
Physical Rating
Basic / Moderate
Leisurely / Moderate
Transportation
Accommodation
train, sleeper train, private bus/minibus
11 nights hotel, one night yurt camp, one night homestay, one night sleeper train
Months of Operation
March, April, May, June, September, October
Adventure Coordinators' Insider Tip:
Come with a sense of adventure as there will be long drives and some basic conditions. Your reward will be an insight into local life well beyond the tourist trail
Itinerary
DAY 1: Arrival in Tashkent, capital of Uzbekistan
DAY 2: Tour Tashkent, exploring squares, mosques, and museums
DAY 3: Train to Samarkand; visit mausoleums and Registan Square
DAY 4: Explore Samarkand further; enjoy ceramic and silk workshops
DAY 5: Free morning in Samarkand; drive to Nurata mountain village
DAY 6: Hike in Nurata village; travel to Kyzylkum yurt camp
DAY 7: Camel ride, relax at Aydarkul Lake, and sleeper train
DAY 8: Discover the Aral Sea disaster; drive to Nukus city
DAY 9: Visit Savitsky Museum; ancient fortresses; drive to Khiva
DAY 10: Full-day exploration of Khiva’s historic walled city
DAY 11: Train to Bukhara; explore preserved historic districts
DAY 12: Discover Bukhara’s fortress, mausoleum, and Summer Palace
DAY 13: Morning in Bukhara; high-speed train to Tashkent
DAY 14: Day trip to Chimgan mountains and solar furnace
DAY 15: End trip in Tashkent after breakfast
Inclusions
All accommodation
All transport
All listed activities
Breakfasts (except on sleeper train), four dinners, two lunches
Tour leader throughout
Sample tour. Itinerary, accommodation, transportation, inclusions and prices are correct at the time of publication but may change without prior notice. Please inquire.
© Adventure Coordinators