12 Days of Unravelling Uzbekistan's Treasures

Tashkent International Airport, Kumarik ko'chasi, Tashkent, Uzbekistan, Uzbekistan - Tashkent International Airport, Kumarik ko'chasi, Tashkent, Uzbekistan, Uzbekistan
  • Kukeldash Madrasah
  • Magoki Attori Mosque
  • Khiva Town
  • Mizdakhan Necropolis

Details

12 Days | 11 Nights

Tour Types: Private
Runs:
Accommodation: 3* Hotels, Guesthouse, Yurt Camp
Minimum Age: 10

Tour Description


This 12-day Discovery Tour invites you to uncover the mesmerizing tapestry of Uzbekistan, where you'll embark on an immersive journey to reveal the multifaceted beauty of this Central Asian gem. From the vibrant pulse of Tashkent to the haunting landscapes of Muynak, the timeless charm of Khiva, and the architectural marvels of Samarkand, each destination presents the intricate traditions and rich heritage of the Uzbek people. Traverse through historical cities, immerse yourself in the genuine warmth of local hospitality, and wander amidst the natural splendor of Aydar Lake and the serene Sentyab village. With an unforgettable itinerary that seamlessly blends culture, history, and breathtaking vistas, this tour ensures an authentic and enriching exploration of the heart and soul of Uzbekistan.

Highlights

  • Uncover the poignant history of Muynak's former Aral Sea coastline.
  • Step into a living museum as you explore the town of Khiva.
  • Visit the remains of the mighty Ark Fortress.
  • Experience the hospitality and local life in the Sentyab village.
  • Discover the spiritual side of Nurata.
  • Explore the Nukus Museum of Art.
  • Wander through Bukhara's historical heart.

Tour Itinerary

Day 1
Tashkent Arrival – Tashkent City – Tashkent    

2 Stops

1

Tashkent Airport

Welcome to Uzbekistan! Meet your driver at the arrival hall of Tashkent International Airport. Begin your tour with a transfer to the old city of Tashkent.
2

Tashkent City

Explore the revered Khast Imam complex. This architectural marvel is the spiritual heart of Tashkent and houses the renowned Uthman Quran. Within the complex, you'll discover the Barak-Khan Madrasah, Tillya Sheikh Mosque, Muyi Muborak Madrasah, Kaffal Shashi Mausoleum, New Khazrati Imam Mosque, and the Muftiate building. Then stroll along the bustling Chorsu Bazaar, where vibrant colors and aromatic spices create a lively atmosphere. Following, have a lunch at Central Asian Plov Center, indulge to a traditional Uzbek dish called plov, cooked in enormous wood-fired kazans. Continue to the State Museum of Applied Art, a treasure trove of exquisite artistry spanning from the 19th century to the present day. Experience a short but memorable Tashkent metro ride from "Kosmonavtlar" station to "Mustakallik Maydoni" station. Discover the grandeur of Independence Square, admire the Alisher Navoi State Academic Bolshoi Theatre, pay respects at Amir Temur Square, and contemplate the Monument of Courage. As the day ends, transfer to your hotel and overnight.

Day 2
Tashkent – Nukus – Muynak – Nukus    

4 Stops

1

Tashkent

Your day begins with an early morning transfer to the Domestic Airport to board a flight to Nukus.
2

Nukus

Arrive in Nukus, and start the tour of the city. First stop is the Savitsky Art Museum, a treasure trove of Soviet avant-garde art curated by Igor Savitsky. Then drive to Muynak, a town that once stood on the shores of the Aral Sea. En route, stop at the Ancient Complex Mizdakhan to explore the small madrasah, often called the "World Clock," which holds a captivating tale of a saint's resting place. Legend has it that this building gradually loses one brick each year, foretelling an end to the world when its structure collapses.
3

Muynak

Upon reaching Muynak, proceed to the haunting "Cemetery of Ships"—a poignant testament to the environmental tragedy of the shrinking Aral Sea. Witness the corroded remains of iron ships that now stand as silent witnesses to a vanishing sea. Explore the Muynak Museum, delving into the region's history and the complex story of the Aral Sea's decline. Visit the Local History Museum and the former port of Muynak, where you can look over the vast desert expanse that was once the Aral Sea.
4

Nukus

Return to Nukus, proceed to your accommodation and overnight.

Day 3
Nukus – Khiva    

1 Stop

1

Khiva

After breakfast, transfer around 200 kilometers to Khiva. Enroute, visit several ancient fortress of Khorezm. Chilpiq Kala's weathered grandeur is a testament to the enduring strength of its walls. Kyzyl Kala is filled with the stories of those who once lived in its corridors, while Toprak Kala is filled with the architectural prowess of its time. Ayaz Kala captivates the imagination with the layers of history etched into its stone. Upon arrival to the city of Khiva, proceed to your hotel and check in. Rest of the afternoon is free whether you choose to stroll through the captivating old town, marvel at the intricate tilework, or simply sit in a courtyard and absorb the atmosphere of the city.

Day 4
Khiva City – Khiva    

1 Stop

1

Khiva

Begin your walking sightseeing tour in the walled inner town of the city of Khiva -Itchan Kala. Admire the intricate design of the Mukhammad Aminkhan Madrasah and the elegance of the Mukhammad Rahimkhan Madrasah. Visit the iconic Kalta-Minor Minaret, Kunya-Ark, a fortress-palace that was once a seat of power. Explore the revered Juma Mosque, the exquisite beauty of the Tash-Khovli Palace, a true gem of Khiva's architectural heritage, the towering Minaret of Islam-Khoja and the Pakhlavan Makhmud Mausoleum that pays homage to a revered poet and wrestler. Free time in the afternoon for your leisure. Overnight in Khiva.

Day 5
Khiva – Urgench – Bukhara    

2 Stops

1

Khiva

Today, you have a half day to explore the city as you desire or just relax and sleep in at your hotel. Remember to check out at 12:00. At 16:30 you will be transferred to Khiva train station for board the 18:20 sleepers train that will carry you to the city of Bukhara.
2

Bukhara

Estimated time of arrival in Bukhara is 00:18 (+1) and transfer to your hotel for check in.

Day 6
Bukhara City – Bukhara    

1 Stop

1

Bukhara

Commencing your city tour at 09:00 AM with a visit at Lyabi-Khauz Complex, a historical oasis with a central pool surrounded by stunning architectural gems. Marvel at the 12th century Magoki-Attori Mosque and Chor-Minor Madrasah distinguished by its four minarets. Continue to the bustling trade domes that have been hubs of commerce for centuries. Following, visit the Ulugbek and Abdulazizkhan Madrasahs with intricate architectural designs. Experience the spiritual aura of the Miri-Arab Madrasah, an active religious institution that has preserved its significance through time. Admire the Kalyan Minaret, an enduring symbol of Bukhara's resilience, along with the adjacent Kalyan Mosque. Venture into history as you explore the ancient Ark Fortress, a witness to the city's evolution over millennia. End the day with a visit to the Bolo-Khauz Mosque, a serene place of worship embraced by Bukhara's enchanting ambiance. Return to your hotel and overnight.

Day 7
Bukhara – Gijduva – Nurata – Yurt Camp    

3 Stops

1

Gijduvan

Depart Bukhara and drive to Gijduvan, a town renowned for its traditional ceramics. Your first stop is the ceramics workshop, where skilled artisans craft intricate pieces that reflect the rich artistic heritage of Uzbekistan. Witness the meticulous process of creating these works of art and learn about the techniques passed down through generations.
2

Nurata

Then to the Nurata where you stroll the town on your own. Walk to the Chashma Spring Complex, a revered site where natural spring waters have drawn pilgrims for centuries. Then to the Namazgah Mosque, an ancient place of worship. Climb the hills to see the remains of the Fortress of Alexander the Great.
3

Yurt Camp

Continue to your Yurt Camp, located in the Uzbek countryside. Yurt is a traditional Central Asian dwelling and provides authentic experience.

Day 8
Yurt Camp – Lake Aydar – Sentyab Village    

2 Stops

1

Lake Aydar

Enjoy breakfast while gazing at the serene surroundings of your Yurt camp. At 09:00 AM, drive to the Lake Aydar. Walk along the lakeshore while feeling the gentle breeze and listen to the soothing sounds of the water.
2

Sentyab Village

Next, drive to Sentyab Village where lunch awaits at a traditional guest house. In the afternoon, explore the village at your own pace. You have the freedom to walk leisurely or opt for challenging hike along the surroundings. Return to the guest house and enjoy a heart-warming dinner with your local host.

Day 9
Sentyab Village – Samarkand    

1 Stop

1

Samarkand

Morning time, journey the 4.20-hour scenic drive to the city of Samarkand. Upon reaching your destination, you'll check in to your hotel and have the rest of the day at your leisure to unwind and explore as you please.

Day 10
Samarkand City – Tashkent    

2 Stops

1

Samarkand City

Your journey of the day begins with a visit to the Gur-Emir Mausoleum, a masterpiece of Islamic architecture that serves as the final resting place of the great Tamerlane. Next is the Registan Square, often referred to as "The Pearl of Central Asia." This iconic square is surrounded by three magnificent madrasas adorned with intricate tile work that narrate the tales of Samarkand's storied past. Continue to the grand Bibi-Khanum Mosque, a testament to Tamerlane's vision and ambition. Experience the vibrant atmosphere of the Siab Bazaar, the largest market in Central Asia. It is where you will have a glimpse of local life and take in the flavors, colors, and aromas of Samarkand. Enjoy a sumptuous Uzbek dish for your lunch at Plov Center. Afterwards, visit to the Khazrat Khizr Mosque, the oldest mosque in Samarkand. Pay your respects at the Mausoleum of the first President of Uzbekistan, Islam Karimov. See the stunning avenue of mausoleums and tombs that showcases detailed tile work at the Shakhi-Zinda Necropolis. Step into the realm of science and astronomy at the Ulughbek Observatory, a significant observatory of the Middle Ages established by the visionary scholar and ruler Ulughbek. Explore the Mausoleum of Saint Daniel, an important pilgrimage site that holds cultural and spiritual importance. Travel into the countryside to visit the "Meros" paper mill in Konigil village, where you can witness the traditional craft of papermaking. Drive to the train station to board the 17:33 high-speed train "Afrosiyob", as you make your way back Tashkent.
2

Tashkent

Upon reaching Tashkent, proceed to your hotel and overnight.

Day 11
Tashkent – Chimgan – Tashkent    

1 Stop

1

Chimgan

Head to Chimgan Mountains through the Western Tien-Shan Mountains, driving a short distance of 92 kilometers. Enjoy the scenic view you pass by until you reach the town of Charvak. Step into the heart of nature as you walk along the Chimgan Mountains taking in the serene view of the surroundings. Hop on to a cableway ascending to have a better panoramic view of this remarkable terrain. Then stroll along the shore of the Charvak Reservoir. Explore the traces of ancient history as you visit unique petroglyphs and rock carvings created by prehistoric people. Return to your hotel in Tashkent and overnight.

Day 12
Tashkent – Tashkent Airport    

1 Stop

1

Tashkent Airport

At a pre-arrange time, transfer to Tashkent airport for departure. Xayr!

Inclusions


  • Transportation during the tour.
  • Local prepaid sim card with 5GB internet access sharing.
  • Lunch at the Plov Center in Samarkand.
  • Lunch at the central Asia Plov Center in Tashkent.
  • Cableway ride in Chigman.
  • Entrance fees to the sites mentioned in the itinerary.
  • Certified local tour guide in Tashkent, Khiva, Bukhara, and Samarkand.
  • Full board guest house accommodation in Sentayb Village.
  • Yurt accommodation in the Yurt Camp with breakfast and dinner.
  • All accommodations based on the itinerary with breakfast.
  • High-speed train ticket from Samarkand to Tashkent in an economy seat.
  • Sleepers train ticket from Urgench to Bukhara in a 2-person compartment.
  • Domestic flight from Tashkent to Nukus in an economy seat.
  • Train station pickup and drop off.
  • Airport pickup and drop off.
  • Uzbekistan Visa Support.

Exclusions


  •  International Airfare.  
  •  Travel Insurance.  
  •  Uzbekistan Entry Visa.  
  •  Entrance fee to Muynak, Nukus, Ancient Castles and Nurata.  
  •  Meals and beverage not stated.  
  •  Tips, portage, and private expenses.  
  •  New Year's gala dinner supplement if any.  
  •  Other not mentioned in the itinerary.  

Practical Info


• Rates may change without prior notice.
• Official check in time at hotels 15:00 – check out time at hotels 12:00.
• Breakfast at hotels is served in the main restaurant.
• The high-speed train tickets may be unavailable if the booking made less than 60 days before the departure date, and it can be replaced with the most comfortable class of regular train tickets.
• The best time to travel to Uzbekistan is from March to June and from August to November.
• When visiting religious buildings, it is required to take your shoes and women must cover their head with a scarf.
• There is a fee for using professional cameras in most sightseeing places (1-3 USD).
• Please pack comfortable walking shoes, warm clothes for the cooler nights and depending on season sun protection.
• The driver/tour guide escorts you according to the booked itinerary, he is not 24/7 at your disposal. For any extra activity or extra use of vehicle, there is a supplement.
• Day to day itinerary subject to change due to unforeseen circumstances, we will make every effort to ensure that all mentioned sites are visited to the best of our ability.

How to Book this Tour


- After booking the tour with us online, one of our consultants will get in touch within 24 hours. We inform you when all services are confirmed. You need to pay then a 25% deposit by credit card or by bank transfer. The full payment is due latest 14 days before tour start.
- Cancellations need to be sent in written form. Charges are as follows:
• 29 $USD per person from the day of booking up to 30 days before departure.
• 47 $USD per person for cancellations made between 30 to 15 days before departure.
• 25% of the total price of the trip for cancellations made 15 to 08 days before departure.
• 50% of the total price of the trip for cancellations made between 08 to 02 days before departure.
• 100% of the total price of the trip for cancellations made less than 48 hours before departure.
- For refunds we do not cover transaction fees charged by credit card companies and banks.
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