Uzbekistan - the Heart of the Silk Route

Uzbekistan - the Heart of the Silk Route

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Uzbekistan - the Heart of the Silk Route

11 Days Starting and ending in Tashkent, Uzbekistan

Visiting: Tashkent, Samarkand, Bukhara, Khiva

Tour operator:

Travelsphere

Tour code:

FUBZ

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Group size:

15 - 35

Age range:

18-99

Special diets catered:

Vegetarians, Vegans, Please make us aware of any specific dietary requests

Tour operated in:

English

Interests:

Cultural

Tour Overview

A network of roads used by traders travelling between Europe and Asia, the incredible history of the Silk Route embraces mountains, deserts and ancient cities overflowing with awe-inspiring architecture. Discover it all on this exceptional tour that shows you the very best of Uzbekistan’s rich cultural and natural highlights.


Get ready to discover blue-domed mosques and bustling bazaars in the cities of Tashkent and Samarkand, before exploring the fascinating holy city of Bukhara and the Khiva’s UNESCO-listed Old Town. Along the way, you’ll see the undulating dunes of the Kyzylkum Desert and immerse yourself in centuries-old traditions. From dining with a local family to watching a stunning performance of dance, this fascinating itinerary is packed full of memorable experiences. Plus, you’ll enjoy plenty of free time for your own exploration of this historic and beautiful land at the crossroads of Central Asia.

Highlights

  • SIghtseeing in Tashkent and a ride through the city's beautiful metro stations

  • Discovery tour of Samarkand

  • Walking tour of Registan Square

  • Traditional breadmaking and lunch with a local family

  • Drive the Takhta Karacha Pass

  • Explore the home of national hero, Tamerlane

  • Discover the holy city of Bukhara

  • Bukhar Puppetry and Miniature School experience

  • Sample exotic teas at an historical teahouse

  • Drive through the Kyzylkum Desert

  • Walking tour of Khiva's Itchan Kala

  • Dinner with Uzbek Khorezm dances

  • Tashkent city tour including Khast Imam Square

  • Visit to a famous ceramics studio

Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1 UK - Tashkent

Location: Tashkent

Your exotic adventure begins today with an overnight flight to Uzbekistan's vibrant capital city, Tashkent.

Day 2 Tashkent

Location: Tashkent

Accommodation Name: The Elements Hotel

Meals Included: Dinner

When you arrive this morning, we’ll drive you to your hotel where you’ll have plenty of free time to settle in, relax, and freshen up after your journey.
Tashkent is a modern metropolis with a fascinating history and we'll explore it together on a sightseeing tour this afternoon. One of the oldest settlements on the Great Silk Road, its ancient spirit lives on in the medieval Old City. We’ll visit Chorsu Bazaar, a bustling market with stalls selling everything from colourful spices and freshly baked bread to ceramics and hand-made souvenirs. A ride on the Tashkent metro, Central Asia's oldest tube, is also included and you’ll see mosaics, portraits and magnificent columns dazzling at every stop.
Tonight, we'll sit down to a tasty welcome meal at a local restaurant.

Day 3 Tashkent - Samarkand

Location: Samarkand

Accommodation Name: Orient Star Samarkand

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

This morning, the high-speed Afrosiab train whisks us to one of the most prominent cities on the Great Silk Road, Samarkand. From the eras of Alexander the Great and Genghis Khan to the artistic legacies of the Turkic ruler Tamerlane, this ancient city has seen some history! The latest research indicates that Samarkand was founded an incredible 2,750 years ago.
On a sightseeing tour, we'll visit the magnificent, blue-domed Gur-Emir Mausoleum, home to the grave of Tamerlane, along with the impressive remnants of the vast Mosque Bibi-Khanum. You’ll also visit the Shah-i-Zinda Necropolis, a collection of tombs decorated with elaborate tiles. An important site for pilgrims, this is the alleged gravesite of Qusan ibn-Abbas, a cousin of the Prophet Muhammad.

Day 4 Samarkand

Location: Samarkand

Accommodation Name: Orient Star Samarkand

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

Your day begins with a visit to Registan Square, one of Samarkand’s most impressive sights. It is surrounded on three sides by grand madrasas, beautiful buildings adorned with mosaics and ornate minarets, that are some of the greatest works of the Islamic world. After admiring the awe-inspiring architecture, we’ll join a local family for a home-cooked meal and have a go at making our own bread.
The rest of the day is yours to spend at leisure, you can spend more time uncovering the city’s incredible history or just relax with a drink at the hotel. Alternatively, join us for an optional excursion to three incredible destinations. The first, the Meros Silk Paper Factory, has revived the ancient tradition of papermaking in Samarkand, once renowned for its use in Persian and Arabic manuscripts. Second is the famous Ulugh Beg Observatory, which produced advanced astronomical discoveries before it was destroyed by religious extremists in 1449 - we'll visit the museum here. Thirdly, we'll discover the Tomb of Prophet Daniel.

Day 5 Samarkand - Bukhara

Location: Bukhara

Accommodation Name: Orient Star Bukhara

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Settle in for a scenic drive over the spectacular Takhta Karacha Pass, as we follow the Silk Route to Shakhrisabz, the hometown of Tamerlane, founder of the Timurid Empire. A traditional centre for folk art, the city is dotted with ruins and medieval buildings. We'll explore the crumbling Ak Saray Palace, Kok Gumbaz Friday Mosque and the mausoleum of Dorut Tilavat, then enjoy some free time for lunch if you wish.
After a relaxing afternoon drive, you can look forward to a traditional dinner in Central Asia's holiest city, Bukhara.

Day 6 Bukhara

Location: Bukhara

Accommodation Name: Orient Star Bukhara

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Highlighting more than 2,000 years of history, medieval Bukhara offers a visual feast of architectural wonders and photogenic streets. Our full-day tour shows you the very best of the UNESCO-listed historic centre, including the atmospheric Old Jewish Quarter, Poi-Kayalan Ensemble and Kalyan minaret.
We'll delve into tradition at puppet and miniature painting workshops, and sip spicy teas flavoured with fragrant cardamom, anise, cinnamon and oregano. Then you can hunt for souvenirs at the city’s trading domes and browse market stalls piled high with handwoven carpets, silk scarves and unique jewellery.

Day 7 Bukhara

Location: Bukhara

Accommodation Name: Orient Star Bukhara

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

There's so much more to discover in Bukhara and today our sightseeing begins at the Zindan, an old jail complete with a grisly torture chamber. Close by is the spectacular Fortress Ark, Bukhara’s oldest structure and former residence of the city’s emirs. We'll walk along the Old Town walls and stop at Samanids Mausoleum, a 9th-century architectural treasure. After a busy morning, we’ll have lunch together at a local restaurant and then you can take your time and explore at your own pace this afternoon. Perhaps head to Lyabi Hauz Square and relax under the shade of a tree, watching the world go by.
Another possibility is an optional, countryside excursion which starts with a visit to Bahauddin Naqshbandi, the burial tomb of the Sufism leader. You’ll then continue to the exquisite summer residence of the last Emir of Bukhara, Sitorai Mokhi Khosa Palace. Step back in time and learn about the lifestyle of the city’s past leaders as you explore opulent rooms, courtyards and the harem. On our return, we'll stop for a look at Chor Minor and its four quirky, turquoise-topped turrets.

Day 8 Bukhara - Khiva

Location: Khiva

Accommodation Name: Orient Star Hotel - Khiva

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

You'll get a well-deserved rest today on our drive to Khiva through spectacular desert landscapes. The Kyzylkum Desert stretches for hundreds of miles and once presented sun-scorched dangers for traders traversing the legendary red sands. Luckily for us, we'll get to experience it in comfort!

Day 9 Khiva

Location: Khiva

Accommodation Name: Orient Star Hotel - Khiva

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

A living museum, Khiva's twisting alleyways, glistening mosaics and ornate minarets are a stark contrast to its brutal history of barbaric slave trading. A walking tour of the town’s UNESCO-listed and fortified Old Town, Itchan Kala, showcases ancient Islamic structures and dwellings. We’ll see majestic mosques, madrasas and caravanserais – guesthouses where travelling merchants once rested. As Khiva is well-known for handicrafts, we’ve also allowed plenty of time here to admire and buy woodcarvings, woven carpets and fleece hats.
Tonight offers a treat for the senses, with dinner and a folklore performance. A captivating form of dance combining Arabic, Persian, Turkic, Indian and Chinese elements, Khorezm features dazzling spins, sensual undulations and lavish Oriental costumes.

Day 10 Khiva - Tashkent

Location: Tashkent

Accommodation Name: The Elements Hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Saying goodbye to Khiva, we'll fly back to Tashkent today but don't worry, your incredible journey isn't over just yet. When we arrive, you’re going to see more of Tashkent on a city tour, that starts in Khast Iman Square. Admire the works of world-famous ceramic masters, along with the performing arts hubs of Theatre Square and Broadway, the Earthquake Memorial and Amir Temur Square.
Tonight, we'll sit down together for a delicious farewell dinner at a local restaurant.

Day 11 Tashkent - UK

Location: Tashkent

Meals Included: Breakfast

Your adventure in Central Asia comes to an end as we drive you to the airport in good time for your flight home to the UK.

What's Included

  • Return flights from London

  • 9 nights in 3-star hotels, plus 1 night in flight

  • 18 meals: 9 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 7 dinners and welcome drink

show more

What's Not Included

Tipping and Gratuities

Tipping and gratuities are not included in the tour package.

Accommodation

Stay in a variety of comfortable accommodations including Hotel Praga, Hotel Diyora in Samarkand with its outdoor pool and gym, Orient Star Bukhara with spacious rooms and buffet breakfast, and Orient Star Hotel - Khiva, a historical building with modern amenities.

Excursions Included


  • Discovery tour of Samarkand

  • Ride through beautiful metro stations

  • Walking tour of Registan Square

  • Traditional breadmaking and lunch with a local family

  • Drive the Takhta Karacha Pass

  • Explore the home of national hero, Tamerlane

  • Discover the holy city of Bukhara

  • Bukhara Puppetry and Miniature School experience

  • Drive through the Kyzylkum Desert

  • Walking tour of Khiva's Itchan Kala

  • Dinner with Uzbek Khorezm dances

  • Tashkent city tour including Khast Imam Square

  • Visit to a famous ceramics studio



Optional Excursions


  • Samarkand's old traditions: astronomy and papermaking

  • Countryside excursion to Bahauddin Naqshbandi and Sitorai Mokhi Khosa Palace



Mode of Transport

Travel in comfort with return flights from London, high-speed Afrosiab train to Samarkand, scenic drives through the Takhta Karacha Pass and Kyzylkum Desert, and a flight back to Tashkent.

Check out our Q&As

  • What kind of activities are included in the Tashkent city tour?

    The Tashkent city tour includes a visit to Chorsu Bazaar, a ride on the Tashkent metro, and a sightseeing tour of the city's highlights such as Khast Imam Square, Theatre Square, Broadway, the Earthquake Memorial, and Amir Temur Square.

  • What can I expect during the visit to Samarkand?

    In Samarkand, you will visit the Gur-Emir Mausoleum, the Mosque Bibi-Khanum, and the Shah-i-Zinda Necropolis. You will also have a walking tour of Registan Square and a home-cooked meal with a local family. Optional excursions include visits to the Meros Silk Paper Factory, Ulugh Beg Observatory, and the Tomb of Prophet Daniel.

  • What unique experiences are offered in Bukhara?

    In Bukhara, you will explore the Old Jewish Quarter, Poi-Kayalan Ensemble, and Kalyan minaret. You will also visit puppet and miniature painting workshops, sip exotic teas, and have the opportunity to shop for handwoven carpets, silk scarves, and unique jewelry. Additionally, you can visit the Zindan jail, Fortress Ark, and Samanids Mausoleum.

  • What is special about the drive through the Kyzylkum Desert?

    The drive through the Kyzylkum Desert offers spectacular desert landscapes and a comfortable experience, contrasting with the historical sun-scorched dangers faced by traders traversing the legendary red sands.

  • What will I see during the walking tour of Khiva's Itchan Kala?

    During the walking tour of Khiva's Itchan Kala, you will see ancient Islamic structures, mosques, madrasas, and caravanserais. The tour also includes time to admire and purchase local handicrafts such as woodcarvings, woven carpets, and fleece hats.

  • What kind of cultural performances are included in the tour?

    The tour includes a folklore performance in Khiva, featuring Khorezm dances which combine Arabic, Persian, Turkic, Indian, and Chinese elements. The performance includes dazzling spins, sensual undulations, and lavish Oriental costumes.

  • What kind of meals are included in the tour package?

    The tour package includes 18 meals: 9 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 7 dinners, and a welcome drink. Meals are provided at local restaurants and with local families, offering a taste of traditional Uzbek cuisine.

  • What policies are in place for Covid-19?

    Travelsphere’s Flexibility Promise has been created to give you complete peace of mind and make you feel confident when booking your holiday with us. We have also been awarded the WTTC safe travels stamp which recognises businesses and destinations worldwide that have adopted a new set of global protocols to support the return of 'Safe Travel' around the world.

  • How long has the tour company been trading?

    Travelsphere has been operating escorted touring holidays for 60 years

  • What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?

    At Travelsphere, we are committed to operating our business operations responsibly, with integrity and always act ethically in all our business dealings and relationships. We are committed to implementing and enforcing effective systems and controls to ensure slavery and human trafficking does not take place in our own business or in any of our supply chains

  • What documents will I receive before I travel?

    You will receive Holiday conformation upon booking, and then several documents detailing any adddiotnal information and the optional excursions that you can book before you travel. The final information covering your flights, hotels and itinerary will be sent to you around 14 days before your departure date.

  • Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?

    No, we do not offer single share options

  • Can I join the tour once it has departed?

    No, Im afraid not

  • What happens if I need to change my holiday date once I’ve booked?

    If we can accomadate a change in date - we will always do our best to help you. Just pick up the phone and ask one of our friendly advisors - and make sure you have your booking number to hand.

  • Am I contributing to any charity by booking the tour?

    Our Travelsphere Cares programmes, in partnership with the Planeterra Foundation, support local projects and social enterprises by helping them earn an income from tourism. We simply donate a portion of the funds from our tours, so it’s great to know that when you travel with us you are helping to change lives and turn travel into real impact.

  • Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?

    Like minded travellers

  • Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?

    All of our accommodation providers will be working to the very highest standards of hygiene – you already always enjoy a private room of your own on all of our trips, all of our partners will be guided by local government operational standards of hygiene and the new protocols we have issued to them.

Reviews of this operator

KARL WILSON (Google Reviewer)  

A great company and we'll...

28-Mar-2024

A great company and we'll definitely be using them again. Our trip to south America was fantastic.

Alison Packer (Google Reviewer)  

Great escorted holiday to Austria. Well...

05-Aug-2019

Great escorted holiday to Austria. Well looked after by Paul tour leader and Ollie coach driver and the staff at the hotel. Austria is beautiful the lakes are stunning met some great people Well lead tours interesting and not to long Great food and accommodation very Austrian lovely to see the traditional side of Austria good value holiday if you prefer a guide to all the attraction door to door.

Sue Williams  

enjoyable trip to Bulgaria

07-Jun-2021

We had a really enjoyable trip to Bulgaria , all the excursions and hotels were very good . Our Tour Director and Tour Guide were excellent and helped to make the holiday extra special. It is the first time that I have ever used Travelsphere but would not hesitate using them again in the future or to recommend them to friends or family .

Mao Samnang (Google Reviewer)  

Hello I am Samnang Mao I...

04-Dec-2024

Hello I am Samnang Mao I would like to apply to be a group leader of your company. Do you have a link? I started to be a local guide in Siem Reap and trip leader for 23 years.

Charles  

Best travel company I have ever booked with!

03-Aug-2021

As a previous traveller with Travelsphere,I know that customer care and excellent tours are their stock in trade.When the Covid 19 Vaccination scheme was announced in November 2020 I booked Discover New Zealand with a cook island add on,all my internet and telephone calls were top rate ,my questions answered and my monies safe.As the pandemic changed I had to cancel the cook Island add on,again all handled in a prompt,efficient and personable way.Now due to the Covid Restrictions in New Zealand,my your has been cancelled and a full refund given.Excellent customer service from a well established and careing company.Thank you to all at Travelsphere.I am now planning a double tour to Australia and New Zealand when circumstances allow and have the Travelsphere brochure on order !

Jennifer Zammit (Google Reviewer)  

Can't fault them always polite...

15-Dec-2019

Can't fault them always polite friendly and very helpful on phone. I booked Canada last year and they were first class from start to finish. Also went to Italy with them and already booked for next year Chicago to New Orleans. Keep up the good service and you'll always have my bookings and 5 star status .

Keith Taylor (Google Reviewer)  

Travel company providing tours. We...

18-Aug-2023

Travel company providing tours. We did top to toe Italy in 2008 and are travelling with them again on a tour around Turkey in 2024.

Pauline Jones (Google Reviewer)  

Toured Analucia, or should I...

29-Sep-2023

Toured Analucia, or should I say visited. Too much travelling time, not enough seeing anything, great rep, hotel good but evening buffet hit and miss. Maybe a different company next time

Nicola Fallows (Google Reviewer)  

Nice but disappointing honeymoon trip...

19-Sep-2024

Nice but disappointing honeymoon trip to Italy. Wish that every element could have been perfect, but sadly it wasn't. Couldn't fault the tour guide Karina in Vico Equense, or the Country itself. There were some excellent tours organised (but a hell of a lot of walking involved, some days we covered 6 miles). Beware though if you have any special dietary requirements. We are both Vegan and spent the first week of our holiday having the meat and the fish elements of meals substituted with mostly cold tomatoes (or sometimes pumpkin / courgette / aubergine / melon?!). The hotel had no understanding of what other protein sources to use that didn't come from meat/fish. Knew we would have limited options but didn't realise just how much! Was left often hungry and having to shop for snacks in local supermarkets, or left bloated and in pain from having nothing much other than bread or pasta all day. The hotel food in general (in Vico Equense) was complained about by most of the travellers, not just by us. Food was slightly better at the next hotel in Ischia, but that Hotel wanted to charge everything as extras, even tea/coffee and water but also pool towels and swimming caps (which were mandatory). Also quite a few things were rearranged/changed at the last minute. No stop off at Amalfi, crossing to Ischia was changed, and timings for coming home were changed and barely notified to the group.

Julie Smith (Google Reviewer)  

I have been trying to...

08-Jan-2024

I have been trying to contact Travelsphere by email for several weeks now but not a single email ahs been answered. How can an enquiry go unanswered???

Book with Confidence

  • Free Date Changes

    Travelsphere allows you to make 4 free date changes, as long as the change is made at least 75 days before the start of the tour.

  • Transfer as credit for future tours

    Travelsphere allows you to transfer existing payments to a future tour to avoid cancellation fees if you can't travel and inform travelsphere, 75 days before departure.

  • Low Deposit

    Travelsphere requires a minimum deposit of 21% or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 84 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of travelsphere charges.

    Up to 75 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

    At 74 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.

    At 14 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.

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