Best of Tajikistan & Uzbekistan
Best of Tajikistan & Uzbekistan
Best of Tajikistan & Uzbekistan
15 Days Starting in Dushanbe and ending in Tashkent
Visiting: Dushanbe, Kuli Iskandarkul, Khujand, Khŭjand, Tashkent, Samarkand, Aydar Lake, Aydar Kŭl Camp, Bukhara, Khiva
Tour operator:
Tour code:
23603
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Group size:
12 - 16
Physical rating:
2 - Light
Age range:
You must be 18 to travel unaccompanied on a G Adventures tour. For minors travelling with a guardian over 21 years old, the minimum age is 12.
Special diets catered:
Vegetarians, Vegans
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Activities:
Tour Overview
Get yourself to two incredible (and often overlooked) destinations: Tajikistan and Uzbekistan. This 15-day combo trip brings together the best highlights of these two cultures for first-time visitors. Stay at unique Tajik homestays and roam the stunning countryside before heading to the cultural centre of Samarkand. Spend a night in a traditional desert yurt and discover a part of the world few others get to see. This is a tour for all kinds of adventurers.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1 : Dushanbe
Location: Dushanbe
Meals Included: No Meals
Arrive at any time.
Welcome to the capital of Tajikistan on the Varzob River with snowcapped mountains in the backdrop. There are no activities planned until the evening welcome meeting, so get out there and explore.
ACTIVITY: Your opportunity to meet your CEO and fellow travellers, and learn more about your tour. Opt to join the group for a local meal afterwards. Don't forget to see the notice in the lobby (or ask reception) for the official time and place to meet up with the group.
Day 2 : Dushanbe/Kuli Iskandarkul
Location: Dushanbe, Kuli Iskandarkul
Accommodation: Homestay Iskander Kul (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Enjoy a morning tour of Dushanbe, visiting the main monuments, museum, and mosque. After lunch, drive through the valleys and mountains to Iskandar-Kuli for a short hike to Iskander Darya waterfall. Afterward, continue the drive—passing Alexander the Great's lake—to your overnight stay at a local home in the stunning mountain valley. Meet the local people and explore the gorgeous landscape of the Fann Mountains.
ACTIVITY: Enjoy an overnight stay in local homes in this stunningly beautiful area. Meet the locals and explore the gorgeous landscape of the Fann Mountains.
ACTIVITY: Take a short hike through the peaceful Fan Mountains to Iskander Darya waterfall, or Fan Niagra. The Iskander Darya river flows from the famous Iskandarkul Lake, named after Alexander the Great for his love of place. This massive, majestic waterfall falls from a height of 38 meters.
TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
ACTIVITY: Visit the highlights of the capital city on a guided tour, seeing the Central Mosque and square, Ismail-i-Somoni Monument, the State Flag Pole, and Tajikistan Antiquities Museum.
Day 3 : Kuli Iskandarkul
Location: Kuli Iskandarkul
Accommodation: Homestay Iskander Kul (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
After breakfast, embark on a trek alongside Sarytag and the Karakul River. Return to the homestay for lunch and spend the afternoon at leisure. Later, head to Sarytag Village to experience local living and get a better understanding of life in this remote region. After the village exploration, head back to the homestay for a delicious Tajikistan dinner.
FREE TIME: HALF DAY Get out and explore the region.
ACTIVITY: Enjoy an overnight stay in local homes in this stunningly beautiful area. Meet the locals and explore the gorgeous landscape of the Fann Mountains.
Day 4 : Kuli Iskandarkul/KhĹjand
Location: Kuli Iskandarkul, Khujand
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Firuz Hotel (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
Continue on to Khujand, stopping first in Istaravshan to explore a local mosque and Mug Teppe, an ancient citadel fortress stormed by Alexander the Great in 329 BC. Enjoy an optional lunch in a local chaikhana (teahouse) before continuing the drive to Khujand. Wander the city in the afternoon, visiting the Historical Museum of Sughd, resembling a castle, and the Mausoleum of Sheik Muslekheddin.
TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
ACTIVITY: Visit a fortress stormed by Alexander the Great in 329 BC and again by Arabs in 772 AD. Learn more about the history of this place and soak in the view over the city.
ACTIVITY: Explore the city, visiting the museum and a mausoleum.
Day 5 : KhĹjand/Tashkent
Location: Khŭjand, Tashkent
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Hotel Uzbekistan (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
Visit the Khujand market (largest in Tajikistan) before continuing on to the border. Cross into Uzbekistan and drive to the capital city of Tashkent, where modern skyscrapers mix with Soviet-era architecture and mosaic mausoleums. Enjoy a short orientation walk in the evening before an optional dinner.
Some travellers will be joining the group here as they start their journey into Uzbekistan.
ACTIVITY: Visit the market in Khujand. It's the largest in Tajikistan and a great example of a typical Central Asian market. Enjoy browsing what's for sale and opt to sample a few of the local delicacies.
ACTIVITY: Enjoy a brief walk with your CEO. He/she will give you some tips on finding things like supermarkets, main squares, and ATMs. For more specific or in-depth information, an official guided tour is recommended.
ACTIVITY: Ready for a little more ink in your passport? Grab your bags and get ready to check another country off your bucket list.
TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Day 6 : Tashkent
Location: Tashkent
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Hotel Uzbekistan (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
Spend the day freely exploring this unique bustling city. Check out one of the many museums, wander the streets admiring the modern, Soviet-era architecture, venture up Tashkent Tower (which offers city views from its observation deck), or wander through the bazaar.
FREE TIME: FULL DAY Head out and explore Uzbekistan's capital city.
Day 7 : Tashkent/Samarkand
Location: Tashkent, Samarkand
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Zilol Baxt Hotel (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
Travel on to Samarkand, known for intricately beautiful mosques and mausoleums, situated on the Silk Road. Take an orientation walk and opt to visit the Amir Timur Mausoleum, dedicated to the famous conqueror who once hoped to rebuild the empire of Genghis Khan.
ACTIVITY: Enjoy a brief walk with your CEO. He/she will give you some tips on finding things like supermarkets, main squares, and ATMs. For more specific or in-depth information, an official guided tour is recommended.
TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Day 8 : Samarkand
Location: Samarkand
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Zilol Baxt Hotel (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
Embark on a city tour, visiting Ulugbek Observatory, Shaki Zinda complex, the bazaar, Bibi Khanum, and Registan Square. With a free afternoon, continue exploring the Samarkand sights, have a cuppa in a local tea house, or wander around the bazaar. Opt to explore the Tomb of Prophet Daniel, famous for the Biblical story of Daniel and the lions.
FREE TIME: AFTERNOON Head out and discover more of Samarkand.
ACTIVITY: Visit the important sights of the city with an expert local guide. See the Ulugbek Observatory, Shaki Zinda complex, bazaar, Bibi Khanum, and Registan Square.
Day 9 : Samarkand/Aydar KĹl Camp
Location: Samarkand, Aydar Lake
Accommodation: Camp
Accommodation Name: Yurt Camp Stay Aidarkul (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Travel out into the desert to visit Chashma Complex, a pilgrimage site in the territory of Nurata, dominated by ruins of Alexander the Great's fortress, Juma mosque, a bath-house, and the ancient Panjvakta mosque. All of this, hiding a holy spring believed to heal diseases. After exploring the complex, head to Aidarkul Lake and opt for a swim before continuing on for an overnight stay in a local yurt camp. Enjoy an authentic Uzbekistan dinner and an evening Kazakh singing show.
TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
ACTIVITY: The Chashma Complex in Nurata contains multiple important Islamic sights including the Juma Mosque and spring. The spring is believed to heal diseases and attracts many visitors.
ACTIVITY: The city of Nurata was founded by Alexander the Great in 327BC and the remains of his fortress are still standing. The area is mentioned in many historical texts as being of strategic importance.
ACTIVITY: Stay in traditional felt yurts and experience the way of life in the remote reaches of Uzbekistan.
Day 10 : Aydar KĹl Camp/Bukhara
Location: Aydar Kŭl Camp, Bukhara
Meals Included: Breakfast
Travel to Bukhara, known as one of the most charming cities in the country, and get your bearings on an orientation walk. Opt to visit the old city bazaars, enjoy a traditional dinner cooked by a local family, visit a hammam (bathhouse), or just relax in the pleasant atmosphere of this Silk Road city.
TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
FREE TIME: HALF DAY Spend the afternoon wandering and get to know the city.
Day 11 : Bukhara
Location: Bukhara
Meals Included: Breakfast
Explore Bukhara on a half-day guided walking tour around the beautifully restored mosques, madrassas, and covered markets, or trading domes, that make up the Old City. A centre for pottery, cloth, and carpets, Bukhara is centered around Lyabi-Hauz, a delightful pool of water surrounded by ancient mulberry trees. Wander the artisan shops and narrow twisting streets and alleyways, or sit at a café table and let the evening drift by. Opt to watch a local puppet show held in an old caravanserai, or indulge in a rejuvenating hammam bathhouse.
FREE TIME: AFTERNOON This is the perfect city for shopping or enjoying tea and snacks at a chaykhana.
ACTIVITY: Take an included city tour with a local guide to visit the the Samanid Mausoleum, the Ark Citadel, and the Poi-i-Kalon complex. Walk around beautifully restored mosques, madrassas, and covered markets that make up the Old City.
Day 12 : Bukhara/Khiva
Location: Bukhara, Khiva
Meals Included: Breakfast
Enjoy a scenic drive through the desert on a full day's journey to reach UNESCO-listed Khiva, well worth the arduous drive. Get to know this peaceful, picturesque city on a late afternoon orientation walk, and pick your favourite spots to explore more in-depth tomorrow.
TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
ACTIVITY: Enjoy a brief walk with your CEO. He/she will give you some tips on finding things like supermarkets, main squares, and ATMs. For more specific or in-depth information, an official guided tour is recommended.
Day 13 : Khiva
Location: Khiva
Meals Included: Breakfast
Before exploring this historic town on your own, enjoy a guided tour to learn about local life here. Wander through the narrow labyrinth mudbrick alleyways of old town, bargain with locals at the bazaar, admire the madrassas, mosques, and blue mosaic domes, climb up towering minarets, and venture into the dark dungeons Khiva was infamous for back in the 10th century. Explore the inner walls of Ichon-Qala, and enjoy spectacular sunset views on the sand-coloured buildings.
ACTIVITY: Khiva is currently almost a museum city, with well-preserved city walls and ancient monuments. Wander the city and learn about life here and its important place in history.
FREE TIME: AFTERNOON Continue exploring this historic town.
Day 14 : Khiva/Tashkent
Location: Khiva, Tashkent
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Hotel Uzbekistan (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
Take a short flight back to Tashkent and enjoy a city tour, then explore on your own with some free time.
TRANSPORT: Look! Up in the sky! It's a bird! It's a plane! It's... yup, it is a plane, actually.
ACTIVITY: Visit the city's highlights with a local guide. Ride the Russian-esque metro and visit the religious centre of the city and Quran Museum. Wander the neighbourhood streets and learn about daily life and history of the city and the Uzbek people.
FREE TIME: AFTERNOON Get out and explore the city.
Day 15 : Tashkent
Location: Tashkent
Meals Included: Breakfast
Depart at any time.
ACTIVITY: Not ready to leave? Your CEO can help with travel arrangements to extend your adventure.
What's Included
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Your Local Living Moment: Community Homestay, Kuli Iskandarkul
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Your Welcome Moment: Meet Your CEO and Group
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Your Local Living Moment: Overnight in a Yurt, Aydar Kul Camp
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Hikes and picnic lunch
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Dushanbe city tour
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Mug Teppe settlement visit (Ura-Tube)
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City tour (Khujand)
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Khujand market visit
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Orientation walk (Samarkand)
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City tour (Tashkent)
What's Not Included
Accommodation
Hotels/guesthouses (11 nts), multi share-community homes (2 nts), desert yurt (1 night).
Transport
Private vehicles, walking.
Meals Included
14 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 3 dinners
Check out our Q&As
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Highlights
See the sites of Dushanbe on a city tour, Explore the landscapes and communities in the Fann Mountains, Shop at the largest market in Tajikistan, Sleep in a yurt and learn about local life, Visit historic mosques and markets in Bukhara, Gain understanding of Central Asia's cultures
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Transport
Private vehicles, walking.
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Travel Insurance
Travel Insurance: Travel insurance is compulsory in order to participate on any of our trips. When travelling on a group trip, you will not be permitted to join the group until evidence of travel insurance has been sighted by your CEO, who will take note of your insurance details. When selecting a travel insurance policy please bear in mind that all clients must have medical coverage and that we require a minimum coverage of USD 200,000 for repatriation and emergency rescue. We strongly recommend that the policy also covers personal liability, cancellation, curtailment and loss of luggage and personal effects. If you have credit card insurance we require proof of purchase of the trip (a receipt of credit card statement) with a credit card in your name. Contact your bank for details of their participating insurer, the level of coverage and emergency contact telephone number.
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Detailed Trip Notes
Border Crossings for AWTU: Tajikistan/Uzbekistan border - Oybek border
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Joining Instructions
When you arrive to Dushanbe International Airport, you will have several options to get to the Lotus Hotel: TAXI: we always recommend printing out the address of the hotel (in the native language as well as English if available), to show to your taxi driver. Once you exit from the customs area there will be a lot of drivers offering taxi services, but we recommend going to the ground floor where there is an Information Desk. Here they can assist with hiring an official taxi service. PUBLIC TRANSIT: Once you exit from the airport you can take minibus #87. Get off at Tajik State National University and walk to Lohuti Street in the direction of Shohmansur Bazaar. If you have paid in advance for an arrival transfer, a G Adventures representative will be at the airport to meet you. If for any reason you are not met at the airport, please call our local support line. If you are unable to make contact for whatever reason, please make your way to the joining point hotel via taxi. Please note that Day 1 is an arrival day and no activities have been planned for that day other then your welcome meeting in the evening, so you can arrive at any time. Similarly the last day is a departure day during which no activities have been planned. A G Adventures Representative will organize a short meeting soon after arrival, during which you will meet other tour participants and receive information about general and specific aspects of the trip. A welcome note will be left for you in the hotel so you have all the necessary information regarding the meeting time. If you arrive late, s/he will leave you a message detailing what time and where you should meet the next morning.
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Trip Specific Safety
We strongly recommend the use of a neck wallet or money belt while travelling, for the safe keeping of your passport, air tickets, travellers' cheques, cash and other valuable items. Leave your valuable jewellery at home - you won't need it while travelling. Many of the hotels we use have safety deposit boxes which is the most secure way of storing your valuables. A lock is recommended for securing your luggage.
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Joining Hotel
For details of your joining hotel please refer to your tour voucher, G Account, the G Adventures App or contact your travel agent.
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Solo Travellers
We believe single travellers should not have to pay more to travel so our group trips are designed for shared accommodation and do not involve a single supplement. Single travellers joining group trips are paired in twin or multi-share accommodation with someone of the same sex for the duration of the trip. Some of our Independent trips are designed differently and single travellers on these itineraries must pay the single trip price.
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Planeterra Foundation - the non-profit partner of G Adventures
Planeterra International Foundation is a non-profit organization committed to turning travel into impact by helping local communities earn an income from tourism. Planeterra connects underserved local communities to the benefits of tourism by developing and supporting small community-owned businesses. These businesses support Indigenous people, empower women, grant youth access to employment opportunities, and protect the environment. Planeterra also works to ensure these businesses have a thriving customer base by integrating their projects into G Adventures’ itineraries globally. G Adventures is Planeterra’s largest corporate donor, covering all operating costs, so 100% of your donation will bring opportunity to people in need. G Adventures Dollar-a-day Program - Make Every Day Count - Turn your travel into impact with Planeterra Foundation. Did you know? Most communities around the world do not benefit from tourism. Give back to the places you visit on your travels by creating opportunities for local people to earn an income, and protect the environment. Make every day count by donating $1/day for the length of your trip, and join us in empowering the communities you will visit when you travel. 100% of your donation goes directly to Planeterra projects.
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Emergency Contact
Should you need to contact us during a situation of dire need, it is best to first call either the G Adventures Local Representative (if one is listed below) or our G Adventures Local Office. If for any reason you do not receive an immediate answer, please leave a detailed message and contact information, so they may return your call and assist you as soon as possible. AIRPORT TRANSFER If you have purchased an arrival through G Adventures or if an arrival transfer is included in the cost of your tour, please note that: Your arrival transfer has been arranged based on flight information provided to us. If you are advised of a flight schedule change within 48 hours of your scheduled arrival time, we will do our best to rearrange your arrival transfer however we cannot guarantee this. If your arrival transfer does not arrive within 30 minutes after you have exited the arrivals area please take a taxi to your start point hotel. If your call is specifically concerning Airport Transfer complications please call our local G Adventures Transfer provider directly at: ++992 48 701 9900 EMERGENCY CONTACT NUMBERS G Adventures Office Central Asia: Mr Laziz Otayarov (Operations Manager - Central Asia) Mobile 1: +99890 963 4779 (24h) Mobile 2: +99897 921 7087 (24h) If you are unable for any reason to contact our local office, please call the numbers listed below, which will connect you directly with our 24 hour Sales team, who will happily assist you. Toll-free, North America only: 1 888 800 4100 Calls from UK: 0344 272 0000 Calls from Germany: 0800 365 1000 Calls from Australia: 1 300 796 618 Calls from New Zealand: 0800 333 307 Outside North America, Australia, New Zealand, Germany and the UK: +1 416 260 0999
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Meals Included
14 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 3 dinners
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Visas and Entry Requirements
Uzbekistan: ***PLEASE READ THE ENTIRETY OF THE TEXT BELOW AS THIS IS IMPORTANT INFORMATION FOR YOUR ENTRY INTO UZBEKISTAN*** For the following multi-country trips, the days spent in Uzbekistan are as follows: AWTU - Best of Tajikistan and Uzbekistan: Days 5-15 Please note that visas are the responsibility of the individual traveller. The visa requirements for your trip vary depending on where you are from. We keep the following information up to date as much as possible, but rules do change. It is important that you check for yourself with the Embassy of Uzbekistan. Uzbekistan Visa Exemptions: Citizens of the following countries do not require a visa to enter Uzbekistan for stays up to 30 days: Australia, Austria, Argentina, Bosnia and Herzegovina, the Vatican, Luxembourg, Hungary, Brunei Darussalam, Greece, Ireland, Iceland, Italy, Canada, Andorra, Liechtenstein, Monaco, Belgium, Denmark, Spain, Netherlands, Norway, Sweden , Latvia, Lithuania, Mongolia, New Zealand, Portugal, Bulgaria, Republic of Cyprus, Malta, Poland, San Marino, Serbia, Slovenia, Croatia, Chile, Romania, Slovakia, United Kingdom, Germany, Brazil, Finland, Montenegro, Czech Republic, Switzerland, Estonia, Israel, Indonesia, Japan, Malaysia, Singapore, South Korea, Turkey Citizens of the following countries do not require a visa to enter Uzbekistan for stays up to 90 days: Armenia, Azerbaijan, Belarus, Georgia, Kazakhstan, Moldova, Russia, Ukraine Citizens that are eligible to apply for E-Visa online: Albania, France, India, Kuwait, China (including Hong Kong), Macedonia, UAE, Oman, Saudi Arabia, USA, Thailand With E-Visa, no need to request LOI or apply for Visa at Uzbekistan Consulate or Embassy. The E-Visa is eligible for 30 days, single entry. Uzbek E- visa website: https://e-visa.gov.uz For question "Preliminary place of residence in Uzbekistan", please provide following: "Uzbektourism Licensed Hotels" Nationalities which are not listed on Uzbekistan Visa exemptions list or not on the E-Visa list are required to apply for Visa Approval/Telex No prior to their Uzbekistan Visa application at Uzbekistan Consulate. In order to get Visa Approval/LOI you will be required to fill out & submit the request form (https://www.gadventures.com/visa-forms/Uzbekistan/). It takes about 7-10 business days to get the approval from Uzbekistan MFA (Ministry of Foreign Affairs). Once Visa Approval No/LOI is received we will forward it to you/your agent. Please print out the Visa Approval/Telex No along with duly completed Uzbekistan visa application form & submit to the Uzbekistan Consulate. Information accurate as of September 18th, 2018 ---------------- Tajikistan ***PLEASE READ THE ENTIRETY OF THE TEXT BELOW AS THIS IS IMPORTANT INFORMATION FOR YOUR ENTRY INTO TAJIKISTAN*** Please note that visas are the responsibility of the individual traveller. The visa requirements for your trip vary depending on where you are from and where you are going. We keep the following information up to date as much as possible, but rules do change. It is important that you check for yourself with the Embassy of Tajikistan. Please, keep in mind that all countries require passports valid for at least 6 months from the moment of departure from the country. To apply for Tajikistan visa please follow the Tajikistan E-Visa link: https://www.evisa.tj Essential info & answers for online E visa application Applicant Type: Individual Purpose of the visa type: Tourism GBAO Permit: No (you will not be required to apply for this permit) Date of arrival: The date you enter & exit from Tajikistan (below are the days per trip code you enter & exit from Tajikistan) AWDT - Highlights of Tajikistan: Days 1-5 AWTU - Best of Tajikistan and Uzbekistan: Days 1-5 AZKU - Central Asia - Multi-Stan Adventure: Days 9-13 AZAT - Central Asia Adventure - Almaty to Tashkent: Days 9-13 Address in Tajikstan Dushanbe – “Atlas Hotel” – 32,34 Nisor Mukhammad st, Dushanbe, Tajikistan 734124 Khujand – “Feruz Hotel” - Lenina street 223, Khujand If required: The local operator in Tajikistan – “Panjakent Intour” Address: 12, Borbadi Marvazi street, Panjakent Tel: +992 3475 56674 The cost of E Visa for most of nationalities is 50 USD & other detailed info can be obtained by following the link herehttps://www.evisa.tj/index.evisa.html#/getinformed Information accurate as of September 12th, 2018
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What to Take
What you need to bring will vary according to the trip style you have chosen, the countries you are visiting and when you are travelling. Generally speaking though, you should pack as lightly as possible. On the vast majority of our trips you are expected to carry your own luggage (please see below for exceptions), and though you will not be required to walk long distances with your luggage (max 30 minutes) we recommend keeping the weight under 10kg/22lb. Suitcases are not recommended for G Adventures travellers! Most travellers carry their luggage in a backpack, although an overnight bag with a shoulder strap would suffice if you travel lightly. Smaller bags with wheels are acceptable, although we recommend your bag has carry straps as well, as you may be required to negotiate bus and railway station steps. You will also need a day pack/bag to carry water and a camera etc for day walks and day trips.
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Arrival Complications
We don't expect any problems, and nor should you, but if for any reason you are unable to commence your trip as scheduled, as soon as possible please contact your starting point hotel, requesting that you speak to or leave a message for your CEO (if you are not on a group tour please refer to the emergency contact details provided in this dossier). If you are unable to get in touch with your leader, please refer to our emergency contact details. If you have pre-booked an airport transfer and have not made contact with our representative within 30 minutes of clearing customs and immigration, we recommend that you make your own way to the Starting Point hotel, following the Joining Instructions. Please apply to your travel agent on your return for a refund of the transfer cost if this occurs.
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Max Pax
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What's Included
Your Welcome Moment: Meet Your CEO and Group Your Local Living Moment: Community Homestay, Kuli Iskandarkul Your Local Living Moment: Overnight in a Yurt, Aydar KĹl Camp. Dushanbe city tour. Hikes and picnic lunch. Mug Teppe settlement visit (Ura-Tube). City tour (Khujand). Khujand market visit. City tour (Tashkent). Orientation walk (Samarkand). City tour including a Registan visit. Nurata Shrine visit. Alexander the Great fortress visit. Guided walking tour (half-day, Bukhara). Walking tours (Khiva). Transport between destinations and to/from included activities.
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Minimum Age
You must be 18 to travel unaccompanied on a G Adventures tour. For minors travelling with a guardian over 21 years old, the minimum age is 12.
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International Flights
Check-in times and baggage allowances/restrictions vary by airline and can change at any time. For the most up-to-date information for your flight, please contact your airline. We recommend checking in online in advance to avoid potential delays at the airport.
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Newsletter
Our adventure travel e-newsletter is full of travel news, trip information, interesting stories and contests. To avoid missing out on special offers and updates from G Adventures, subscribe at www.gadventures.com/newsletters/ Stay current on how our company invests in our global community through our foundation – Planeterra. Sign up for Planeterra's monthly news to learn more about how to give back and support the people and places we love to visit.
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Health
Please note inoculations may be required for the country visited. It is your responsibility to consult with your travel doctor for up to date medical travel information well before departure. You should consult your doctor for up-to-date medical travel information well before departure. We recommend that you carry a First Aid kit and hand sanitizers / antibacterial wipes as well as any personal medical requirements. Please be aware that sometimes we are in remote areas and away from medical facilities, and for legal reasons our leaders are prohibited from administering any type of drug including headache tablets, antibiotics, etc. In Asia pharmacies tend to stock the same western drugs as you get at home but they are usually produced locally so please bring the full drug name with you when trying to purchase a prescription drug. When selecting your trip please carefully read the brochure and itinerary and assess your ability to cope with our style of travel. Please refer to the Physical and Culture Shock ratings for trip specific information. G Adventures reserves the right to exclude any traveller from all or part of a trip without refund if in the reasonable opinion of our CEO they are unable to complete the itinerary without undue risk to themselves and/or the rest of the group.
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Packing List
Cold Weather: • Long-sleeved shirts or sweater • Scarf • Warm gloves • Warm hat • Warm layers Conservative Dress: • Modest clothing that covers knees and shoulders (Long pants, long skirts, shirts that cover shoulders) • Shawl or scarf (for temple visits) Documents: • Flight info (required) (Printouts of e-tickets may be required at the border) • Insurance info (required) (With photocopies) • Passport (required) (With photocopies) • Required visas or vaccination certificates (required) (With photocopies) • Vouchers and pre-departure information (required) Essentials: • Binoculars (optional) • Camera (With extra memory cards and batteries) • Cash, credit and debit cards • Day pack (Used for daily excursions or short overnights) • Ear plugs • First-aid kit (should contain lip balm with sunscreen, sunscreen, whistle, Aspirin, Ibuprofen, bandaids/plasters, tape, anti-histamines, antibacterial gel/wipes, antiseptic cream, Imodium or similar tablets for mild cases of diarrhea, rehydration powder, water purification tablets or drops, insect repellent, sewing kit, extra prescription drugs you may be taking) • Flashlight/torch (Headlamps are ideal) • Fleece top/sweater • Footwear • Hat • Locks for bags • Long pants/jeans • Moneybelt • Outlet adapter • Personal entertainment (Reading and writing materials, cards, music player, etc.) • Reusable water bottle • Shirts/t-shirts • Sleepwear • Small travel towel • Sunglasses • Toiletries (Preferably biodegradable) • Watch and alarm clock • Waterproof backpack cover • Windproof rain jacket Health & Safety: • Face masks (required) • Hand sanitizer (required) • Pen (Please bring your own pen for filling out documents.) • Rubber gloves Light Hiking: • Hiking boots/sturdy walking shoes • Hiking pants (Convertible/Zip-off and quick dry recommended) Train Travel (Optional): • Slip-on shoes • Small container with lid • Travel cutlery • Travel or camp cup Warm Weather: • Sandals/flip-flops • Shorts/skirts (Longer shorts/skirts are recommended) • Sun hat/bandana • Swimwear Note: Though you can see lots of people in traditional clothes, Central Asia has adopted western style clothing as well. Don't hesitate to pack your usual travel clothes: in summer it can be shorts and t-shirts, sandals etc. We recommend not to bring tank tops/singlets and any types of clothes with bare shoulders and backs - it is unacceptable in most areas, even in bigger cities. Our tour takes us to many religious sights, where dress code is very strict. We recommend women to have a headscarf in their day bags to cover up when going inside mosques (it's also a great help in the heat in summer). Best things to pack for the hot Central Asian climate is loose, long clothing - long trousers and sarongs or long skirts for women.
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Local Dress
Central Asian dress is quite conservative. Plan to pack loose-fitting light clothing appropriate for hot weather and plan to cover knees, shoulders and chest. For women, a hair scarf is recommended, though they are easy to buy in country.
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My Own Room Exceptions
Days 2 & 3 (homestay/guesthouse); Day 9 (desert yurt camp).
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Optional Activities
Dushanbe - Welcome Dinner Samarkand - Amir Timur Mausoleum Visit (3USD per person) - Tomb of the Old Testament Prophet Daniel Visit (3USD per person) Aydar KĹl Camp - Kazakh Singing (Free) Bukhara - Hammam (Bathhouse) Visit (20USD per person) - Carpet Museum (1USD per person) - Jewish Area and Synagogue Visit (Free) - Chor-Bakr Complex
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Money Exchange
In general Central Asia is a cash operating region, and travellers cheques are not recommended. Due to bank restrictions, only banknotes printed after 1996 can be exchanged. Better to bring notes without marks or stamps on them. We recommend to bring about 70 USD in small denominations: 1, 5 and 10 USD notes. If you are not able to get local currency it's always possible to pay in USD or EUR. Uzbekistan There are lots of ATM's to withdraw local currency (UZS), and banks around to exchange USD or EUR. Travellers cheques are not recommended, as only limited amount of banks work with them. Please, note that you can withdraw only local currency (Uzbek Sums) from ATM's. Some banks in Tashkent allow USD cash advance, but this option depends on the amount of USD cash in the bank. Tajikistan The preferred currency for local transactions is the somoni, and local establishments rarely accept credit cards so keep cash on hand. You may be able to pay in USD and EUR in some places, however, it is recommended that you take out somoni at ATMs in Dushanbe; there are very few ATMs outside of Dushanbe, and those that exist are less dependable.
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Spending Money
Every traveller is different and therefore spending money requirements will vary. Some travellers may drink more than others while other travellers like to purchase more souvenirs than most. Please consider your own spending habits when it comes to allowing for drinks, shopping and tipping. Please also remember the following specific recommendations when planning your trip.
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Meals
While traveling with us you will experience the vast array of wonderful food available in the world. Generally, to give you the maximum flexibility in deciding where, what and with whom to eat, not all meals are included in the trip price. This also gives you more budgeting flexibility. As a rule our groups tend to eat together to enable you to taste a larger variety of dishes and enjoy each other's company. There is no obligation to do this though. Your CEO will be able to suggest favorite restaurants during your trip. Please check the 'meal inclusions' section below for details of meals included.
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Safety and Security
Many national governments provide a regularly updated advice service on safety issues involved with international travel. We recommend that you check your government's advice for their latest travel information before departure. We strongly recommend the use of a neck wallet or money belt while travelling, for the safe keeping of your passport, air tickets, travellers' cheques, cash and other valuable items. Leave your valuable jewellery at home - you won't need it while travelling. Many of the hotels we use have safety deposit boxes, which is the most secure way of storing your valuables. A lock is recommended for securing your luggage. When travelling on a group trip, please note that your CEO has the authority to amend or cancel any part of the trip itinerary if it is deemed necessary due to safety concerns. Your CEO will accompany you on all included activities. During your trip you will have some free time to pursue your own interests, relax and take it easy or explore at your leisure. While your CEO will assist you with options available in a given location please note that any optional activities you undertake are not part of your itinerary, and we offer no representations about the safety of the activity or the standard of the operators running them. Please use your own good judgment when selecting an activity in your free time. Although the cities visited on tour are generally safe during the day, there can be risks to wandering throughout any major city at night. It is our recommendation to stay in small groups and to take taxis to and from restaurants, or during night time excursions. Protests and Demonstrations- Protests and demonstrations, even those that are well intended, have the potential to turn violent with no warning. Counter protests can also turn violent. Action by security forces to disperse demonstrators and protesters may occur at any time. If you are in an area where demonstrators or protesters are gathering, avoid the temptation of staying for a good photo opportunity and leave the area immediately. Water based activities have an element of danger and excitement built into them. We recommend only participating in water based activities when accompanied by a guide(s). We make every reasonable effort to ensure the fun and adventurous element of any water based activities (in countries with varying degrees of operating standards) have a balanced approach to safety. It is our policy not to allow our CEOs to make arrangements on your behalf for water based activities that are not accompanied by guide(s). Swimming, including snorkeling, is always at your own risk. We take all prudent measures in relation to your safety. For ways to further enhance your personal safety while traveling, please visit: www.gadventures.com/travel-resources/safety/
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Itinerary Disclaimer
While it is our intention to adhere to the route described below, there is a certain amount of flexibility built into the itinerary and on occasion it may be necessary, or desirable to make alterations. The itinerary is brief, as we never know exactly where our journey will take us. Due to our style of travel and the regions we visit, travel can be unpredictable. The Trip Details document is a general guide to the tour and region and any mention of specific destinations or wildlife is by no means a guarantee that they will be visited or encountered. Aboard expedition trips visits to research stations depend on final permission. Additionally, any travel times listed are approximations only and subject to vary due to local circumstances.
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Feedback
After your travels, we want to hear from you! Your feedback information is so important to us that we'll give you 5% off the price of your next G Adventures trip if your feedback is completed on-line within 30 days of finishing your trip. Your tour evaluation will be e-mailed to you 24 hours after the conclusion of your trip. If you do not receive the tour evaluation link in the days after your tour has finished, please drop us a line at customerservice@gadventures.com and we will send it on to you.
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Laundry
Laundry facilities are offered by some of our hotels for a charge. There will be times when you may want to or have to do your own laundry so we suggest you bring non-polluting/biodegradable soap.
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Group Leader Description
All G Adventures group trips are accompanied by one of our Chief Experience Officers (CEO). The aim of the CEO is to take the hassle out of your travels and to help you have the best trip possible. They will provide information on the places you are travelling through, offer suggestions for things to do and see, recommend great local eating venues and introduce you to our local friends. While not being guides in the traditional sense you can expect them to have a broad general knowledge of the countries visited on the trip, including historical, cultural, religious and social aspects. We also use local guides where we think more specific knowledge will add to the enjoyment of the places we are visiting- we think it's the best of both worlds.
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Tipping
In Central Asia It is not customary to tip service providers such as waiters, but it is very appreciated, depending on the service we recommend 3-5%. Tipping shows an expression of satisfaction with the people who have assisted you on your tour. Although it may not be customary to you, it is of considerable significance to the people who will take care of you during your travels. There are several times during the trip where there is opportunity to tip the local guides or drivers we use. You may do this individually, or your CEO will offer to collect the money and tip as a group. Recommendations for tipping drivers and local guides would range from $2-$3 USD per person per day depending on the quality and length of the service; ask your CEO for specific recommendations based on the circumstances and culture. Also at the end of each trip if you felt your G Adventures CEO did an outstanding job, tipping is appreciated. The amount is entirely a personal preference, however as a guideline $20-25 USD per person, per week can be used.
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Emergency Fund
Please also make sure you have access to at least an additional USD $200 (or equivalent) as an 'emergency' fund, to be used when circumstances outside our control (ex. a natural disaster) require a change to our planned route. This is a rare occurrence!
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A Couple of Rules
llegal drugs will not be tolerated on any trips. Possessing or using drugs not only contravenes the laws of the land but also puts the rest of the group at risk. Smoking marijuana and opium is a part of local culture in some parts of the world but is not acceptable for our travellers. Our philosophy of travel is one of respect towards everyone we encounter, and in particular the local people who make the world the special place it is. The exploitation of prostitutes is completely contrary to this philosophy. Our CEOs have the right to expel any member of the group if drugs are found in their possession or if they use prostitutes.
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Group Leader
Chief Experience Officer (CEO) throughout.
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Accommodation
Hotels/guesthouses (11 nts), multi share-community homes (2 nts), desert yurt (1 night).
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Group Size Notes
Max 16, avg 12.
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Important Notes
1. CULTURE Central Asia is a region which may be very different to anything you have experienced before. Mixture of Soviet heritage and Islam, summer heat and winter cold, religious conservatism, traffic and crowds can result in initial culture shock but should be seen as an exciting new challenge. 2. DRESS CODE Though you can see lots of people in traditional clothes, Central Asia has adopted western style clothing as well. Don't hesitate to pack your usual travel clothes: in summer it can be shorts and t-shirts, sandals etc. We recommend not to bring tank tops/singlets and any types of clothes with bare shoulders and backs - it is unacceptable in most areas, even in bigger cities. Our tour takes us to many religious sights, where dress code is very strict. We recommend women to have a headscarf in their day bags to cover up when going inside mosques (it's also a great help in the heat in summer). Best things to pack for the hot Central Asian climate is loose, long clothing - long trousers and sarongs or long skirts for women. In colder months (from the end of October through the end of April) it can rain and snow - bring warm clothes, jackets and comfortable warm shoes for walking. 3. ALTITUDE CONSIDERATIONS This trip operates at altitudes over 800m (max altitude 2200m). Whilst we travel slowly allowing plenty of time to acclimatize you may experience headaches, nausea, lethargy, especially when visiting Iskanderkul. It is important to be aware of the affects of altitude on one's tolerance especially on long driving days. 4. MONEY Due to the restrictions on changing money in Central Asia region, only notes/bills printed after 1996 and in good condition will be accepted for exchange. Usually 50 and 100 USD/EUR notes get better exchange rate. We recommend to bring smaller denominations as well - many vendors accept them if you don't have local currency. 5. RAMADAN According to the lunar cycle, Ramadan begins on April 23, 2020 and April 13, 2021. Please note that Ramadan is a month of fasting observed by Muslims throughout the world, during which time the followers of Islam should not eat or drink between sunrise and sunset. There may be some limitations to services and disruptions to schedules during Ramadan, but generally our tours still operate effectively during this period and food is available to non-Muslims throughout the day. It is very important to display increased cultural sensitivity during Ramadan. Please wear loose fitting clothes, that cover knees and shoulders, and try to avoid eating, drinking or smoking in public out of respect for those who can't at that time. 6. COMBO TRIP Please note that this tour combines with other G Adventures tours. As such, the staff and some travel companions on your tour may have previously been traveling together with G Adventures, prior to Day 1 of your tour. Likewise, some staff and travel companions may be continuing together on another G Adventures tour, after your trip concludes.
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How long has the tour company been trading?
G Adventures was established in 1990
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Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?
Most of our trips do not have a single supplement. This means that the accommodation is on a twin share basis and, if travelling on your own, you will be sharing a room with another G Adventures traveller of the same sex. Some tours have an optional single supplement. An optional service that may be available is called "My Own Room". This service allows solo travellers to request their own room.
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Can I join the tour once it has departed?
It's extremely difficult if not impossible to join a tour after it has begun. It is possible to leave a tour early however you will be responsible for your own arrangements from the moment you decide to leave the tour. You would also be responsible for all costs associated with joining a tour late or leaving one early. If you feel this may be necessary, please consult us before you book.
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What policies are in place for Covid-19?
https://www.gadventures.com/travel-with-confidence/
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What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
https://www.gadventures.com/about-us/core-values/
Reviews of this Operator
Book with Confidence
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Free Date Changes
G Adventures allows you to make 10 free date changes, as long as the change is made at least 45 days before the start of the tour.
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Transfer as credit to Future Tours
G Adventures allows you to transfer existing payments to a future tour to avoid cancellation fees if you can't travel and inform g adventures, 45 days before departure.
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Low Deposit
G Adventures requires a minimum deposit of 200 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 60 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of g adventures charges.
Up to 60 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 59 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 29 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
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Travel With Confidence Policy
Our Travel with Confidence policy was created to highlight the measures G Adventures has taken in
response to the increased focus on health and safety, mask-wearing, hygiene and physical distancing
coming out of the pandemic. This policy complements our Book with Confidence policy - which
provides additional flexibility and freedom for your travellers during the booking phase - and will, we
believe, provide additional reassurance to those considering travel to travel with us. The safety of
your travellers has always been our top priority, which is why new physical distancing and cleaning
measures have been put in place on all of our tours. Our Travel with Confidence policy features
health and safety procedures from the moment your travellers arrive on tour to the moment they
leave, without taking away from having the time of their lives. While on tour, it is a requirement that
your travellers follow the directions of their CEO at all times to help keep their fellow group-mates
safe, as well as local residents. The policy will evolve as time goes on and as we continue to monitor
local public health recommendations, but what won’t change is our commitment to keeping your
travellers safe as they explore our big, beautiful world.
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