Uzbekistan: Jewel of the Silk Road
Visiting: Uzbekistan
Tour operator:
Tour code:
AGT1158
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Group size:
10 - 20
Physical rating:
Casual
Age range:
Adults
Tour Overview
Uzbekistan is a land of vast deserts, flat steppes, fruitful river valleys and mountains in the east, it has played host to conquerors and nomads alike for thousands of years. Originally inhabited by Scythian tribes, ruled by various Persian empires (including as part of Alexander the Great’s conquests), these great desert cities became hubs of the Islamic Golden Age from the 8th century onwards, until the great destruction brought by the armies of Genghis Khan.
From the 19th century, Uzbekistan became a province of the Russian empire and later one of the many Eurasian provinces of the USSR. Modern Uzbekistan is now a fledgling democracy with one of the largest gold reserves in the world, which is why this country is rapidly developing into a modern powerhouse. Only recently opened up to the world of tourism, there is no better time to visit Uzbekistan. Marvel at the legacy of empires that left behind the ancient, imposing monuments of Khiva and Bukhara. Visit some of the Silk Road’s most impressive architecture and famous sights, often as the only tourists present to soak up the atmosphere of these incredible relics of a bygone age
Highlights
- Visit vibrant ‘off the beaten track’ tourist locations
- Explore the sprawling desert ruins of Khiva
- Marvel at the architecture and the colourful surroundings of Bukhara, a once hub of Islamic culture
- Enjoy a performance in the National Costume Theatre El-Merosi
- Visit the great Silk Road city of Samarkand
Itinerary
Day 1
Overnight flight from London Gatwick.
Overnight: Tashkent
Day 2 (B,L,D)
After a relaxed morning, embark on a city tour of Tashkent, including a visit to Khazrati Imam Complex, Independence Square and the Romanov’s Palace. After this introduction to Uzbekistan’s most populated city, sit down to enjoy a welcome dinner.
Overnight: Tashkent
Day 3 (B,L,D)
Transfer to Tashkent’s domestic airport for flights to the city of Urgench, before transferring to Khiva. Famous for its long and brutal history as a slave trading post sandwiched in between the vast Kyzylkum and Karakum deserts, nowadays Khiva is much more relaxed hosting mainly tourists and not caravans of captives. Enjoy a walking tour of the historic inner town of Itchan Kala, a UNESCO site famous for minarets, ancient dwellings with unique architecture and the strikingly beautiful, Pahlavan Mahmud Mausoleum.
Overnight: Khiva
Day 4 (B,L,D)
Visit the archaeological monuments of ancient Khorezm, considered to be one of the most historical and cultural regions of Central Asia. In written sources from the period of the Arabic conquests, Khorezm is called the country of ‘tens of thousands of fortresses’. This region is a dream for archaeologists and explorers alike.
Overnight: Khiva
Day 5 (B,L,D)
Drive to Bukhara through Kyzylkum Desert, the 15th largest desert in the world whose name literally translates as ‘Red Sand’. Enjoy a stop aside the banks of the River Amu Darya for lunch in local restaurant, before arriving in Bukhara for free-time. Tonight’s dinner includes a traditional cooking class.
Overnight: Bukhara
Day 6 (B,L,D)
A hub of Islamic culture which is over 2000 years of age and is perhaps the most complete example of a medieval city in Central Asia, Bukhara awaits with an abundance of striking Islamic architecture and an urban fabric which has remained largely intact since the 10th century. Highlights include the Poi Kalan Complex and the almost 50m minaret that resides within.
Overnight: Bukhara
Day 7 (B,L,D)
Today sees a continuation of sightseeing in Bukhara, including Chor-Minor, Sitori-i-Mokhi Khosa palace and the Baha-ud-Din Naqshband Complex.
Overnight: Bukhara
Day 8 (B,L,D)
Depart to Samarkand, stopping en-route at the 12th century Malik Rabat Caravanserai. The entrance portal being the only surviving remains, bear an inscription engraved by unknown masters, “The monument erected by Sultan of the World and this ruinous place became blessed”.
After arrival at the city of Samarkand, enjoy a performance in the National Costume Theatre El-Merosi.
Overnight: Samarkand
Day 9 (B,L,D)
City tour of Samarkand; this former capital of the great empire of Tamerlane and awe-inspiring cross-road of culture boasting some incredible mosques and mausoleums is a real highlight of this tour. Visits to the Gur-Emir Mausoleum, Registan Square and Shah-i-Zinda Mausoleum, being just a few to mention.
Overnight: Samarkand
Day 10 (B,L,D)
A visit to one of the largest archaeological sites in the world at Afrasiab. Here at this centre of Sogdian culture is a chance to wander through ruined streets and houses of a powerful civilisation long crumbled into the dust. The day is completed with a visit to the Mausoleum of Saint Daniel.
Overnight: Samarkand
Day 11 (B,L,D)
Drive to Tashkent with free-time to enjoy exploration, relaxation or the shopping in the capital city.
Overnight: Tashkent
Day 12 (B,L,D)
Departure.
What's Included
-
Meals
Daily breakfast, lunches and evening meals
-
Accommodation
4 to 5 star
Book with Confidence
-
Low Deposit
Prestige Holidays requires a minimum deposit of 20% or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 56 days before departure.
Why book with tourhub?
Safe & Secure
Your money is protected in an external trust until you travel.
100% Guaranteed Refunds if your trip is cancelled.
The safest way to make overseas, multi-currency payments.
Guaranteed Best Value
Industry leading discounts, we won't be beaten on price.
No cancellation or amendment fees from tourhub.
(Operator terms may apply)
Expert Knowledge
Reliable & unbiased advice from travel experts.
Direct contact with the tour operator via our messaging service.
Inspiration & advice from a community of 6000+ real travellers, influencers & content creators.
Trusted Service
Official partners & licensed agents of 1000+ tour operators worldwide.
Don't just take our word for it...
"Tourhub: Friendliness, Professionalism & Integrity I would happily give tourhub a 6* review if I could..."