Your journey through Uzbekistan commences with a gracious welcome as you step off the airplane in Tashkent. Our attentive guide will be waiting to escort you to your hotel, allowing you to settle in and unwind after your travels. Take advantage of this initial day to immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Tashkent and explore its captivating sights. Enjoy a comfortable overnight stay in a hotel.
The warm hospitality of Uzbekistan starts the moment you step off the airplane. Our guide will be there to transfer you to your hotel, so you can settle in and relax. Take advantage of your first day in Tashkent to explore the sights of this incredible city.
Overnight in hotel
Take a morning flight to Urgench. Upon arrival, we continue driving to Khiva City. Orientation walking tour of the old city. Overnight in hotel (BD)
Discover the magic of Khiva City, a true jewel of Central Asia. Our walking tour of the old city is the perfect way to explore this stunning and historic destination. You will uncover hidden gems and take in the captivating beauty of Khiva, as you learn about its rich history and culture and experience the wonder of this UNESCO World Heritage Site for yourself.
Visit the magnificent Ichon-Qala Gates, Muhammad Amin and Rakhim Khan’s Medressas, Tosh-Khovli Palace, Islom-Huja Medressa, and the Applied Arts Museum. Overnight in hotel
Today we have full day drive to Bukhara. Experience the beauty of the Kyzyl-Kum desert firsthand with our Khiva to Bukhara drive. We pass through some of the most stunning terrain you’ll ever encounter on a road trip. As we make our way to Bukhara, we stop for a short break to stretch our legs and refresh. Our drivers know the best spots to stop and enjoy the scenery. You’ll come away with amazing memories and some breathtaking photos. Arrival in Bukhara, Overnight in hotel
A tour of Bukhara begins in the Old City, also known as the historic center of the city. We will wander through the narrow streets, lined with ancient buildings and bustling bazaars. One of the highlights of the Old City is the Lyab-i Hauz complex, a peaceful square surrounded by ancient trees and a beautiful pool. This area is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike to relax and enjoy the traditional tea houses and restaurants.
Next, a visit to the Ark of Bukhara. This impressive fortress was once the residence of the rulers of Bukhara and served as a military stronghold. Today, it is a popular museum that offers a glimpse into the city’s past.
Next attraction in Bukhara is the Kalyan Minaret, known as the Tower of Death. This towering structure, standing at over 47 meters tall, has become the symbol of the city. Built in the 12th century, the minaret served as a lighthouse for caravans traveling along the Silk Road and is a testament to the city’s rich architectural heritage.
One of the most fascinating aspects of Bukhara is its many traditional madrasas. These beautiful buildings, adorned with intricate tile work and domed roofs, were once important centers of learning for scholars and students. No visit to Bukhara is complete without exploring the city’s vibrant bazaars. The most famous bazaar is the Taqi Sarrafon, where visitors can find a variety of traditional handicrafts, spices, and souvenirs.
Set off to Samarkand via Gijduvan. One of the main attractions of Gijduvan is its renowned ceramics, which have been produced by local artisans for centuries. The distinctive style of Gijduvan ceramics is characterized by its intricate patterns and vibrant colors, often featuring motifs of flowers, birds, and other elements of nature.
We’ll lunch at the local potter’s home before proceeding to Samarkand. Overnight in hotel
Samarkand, one of the oldest and most historically significant cities in Central Asia, offers a unique blend of ancient architecture, vibrant culture, and rich history. This city has been a melting pot of different civilizations, from the Persian Empire to the conquests of Alexander the Great, making it a fascinating destination for tourists.
The first stop on a Samarkand city tour is often the Registan Square, a majestic complex of three grand madrasahs (Islamic schools) adorned with intricate mosaics and towering minarets. This architectural masterpiece, dating back to the 15th and 17th centuries, was once the heart of the city and served as a center for education and religion.
Next visit is the Shah-i-Zinda, a holy site and necropolis that houses the remains of various members of the Timurid dynasty. The highlight of the Shah-i-Zinda is the tomb of Kusam ibn Abbas, a cousin of the Prophet Muhammad, which is believed to possess healing powers.
Afterwards, visit the Gur-e-Amir mausoleum, the final resting place of the city’s most famous ruler, Timur (also known as Tamerlane). This grand structure, with its turquoise dome and intricate tile work, is a testament to the power and wealth of the Timurid dynasty.
In addition to these iconic landmarks, we will explore the city’s lesser-known gems, such as the Ulugh Beg Observatory, the Bibi-Khanym Mosque, and the Afrasiyab Museum.
In the morning we will take Afrosiyab bullet train to reach to Tashkent.
City tour of Tashkent includes visiting mosques and madrassas. We visit the Kukeldash Medressa, a grand 16th-century academy undergoing restoration, as well as the History Museum of Uzbekistan and the Museum of Fine Arts.
Overnight in hotel
After breakfast, depart by road to Fergana and en route, visit Kokand, capital of the Kokand Khanate in the 18th and 19th centuries.
We will earn the rich history and culture of Kokand by exploring this beautiful city. Visit the Khan’s Palace Museum and be transported back to a time of opulence and grandeur. Visit Rishtan, where you can see master craftsmen at work and purchase some of the most beautiful ceramics in all of Central Asia.
Overnight in Hotel
Our journey to Margilan includes an unforgettable visit to the silk ikat weaving center. This will be an opportunity to witness the ancient weaving techniques that have been preserved for centuries in this region. We’ll also visit the Margilan craft center where you’ll have the chance to discover the local artisans’ unique creations. These experiences are meant to inspire you and leave a lasting impression.
The first stop on the tour could be the Suleiman-Too, a sacred mountain and UNESCO World Heritage Site that dominates the city’s skyline. Legend has it that the prophet Solomon once prayed on this mountain, giving it its name. A climb up the steep stairs will lead you to a series of caves and shrines, each with its own significance and history. From the top, you can enjoy breathtaking views of the city and the surrounding mountains.
Next visit will be the vibrant and bustling Jayma Bazaar, one of the largest and oldest markets in Central Asia. Here, you can immerse yourself in the local culture and witness the daily lives of the Osh people as you browse through the colorful stalls selling a variety of goods, from traditional handicrafts to fresh produce and spices.
Overnight in hotel
Embark on an unforgettable journey through the stunning Chychkan canyon. Our adventure begins with a morning drive to Ozgen minarets, a breathtaking heritage site that will have you in awe. Along the way, we will visit hydro-power stations and the Toktogul water reservoir before reaching the incomparable Marble Pyramid, set among the mountains with breathtaking views. Overnight in guest house.
After breakfast drive to Chon-Kemin Valley.
We will take you on a journey through stunning landscapes, driving through the Susamyr Valley before arriving at our destination. We will visit the picturesque Chon-Kemin Valley, where we will hike up to the forest to capture an awe-inspiring panoramic view of Kalmak-Ashuu Valley. We will spend a night in a local guesthouse adorned with traditional antique embroidery, handicrafts, and felts, while still offering the essential modern facilities. Overnight at Hotel
Today we drive to Kochkor village where you will visit the Altyn Kol Women’s Handicraft Co-operative Centre.
Here, you will learn how nomadic Kyrgyz women made Shyrdak, and Ala-Kiyiz – a floor covering made by pressing felt of various naturally dyed colors. You will see the process of felt carpet-making and wool-dying. Kochkor is famous for farming and felt-makers.
Later, we continue driving to Cholpon-Ata, Issyk-Kul. Visit Cholpon-Ata petroglyphs Saimalu-Tash, which covers 42 hectares and contains prehistoric monumental structures (stone circles, tombs, the remains of a boundary stone wall) and petroglyphs dating from 500 BC up to 600 AD. Overnight at Hotel(BD)
Drive to Karakol, one of the first towns of the Russian Cossak settlements in the late 19th century. En route we visit Przevalski’s Memorial Museum, named for a great Russian explorer from the late 19th century. After lunch, we sightsee in Karakol. We visit the museum, Dungan (a pagoda type of mosque) and an Orthodox wooden whurch. You will enjoy walking along streets with blue-framed windows and gingerbread-style houses. Later, we have dinner at Uighur family house while enjoying an interesting Kyrgyz folk concert. Overnight at Hotel (BD)
If today is Sunday, at 7:30 a.m. we will go to the Sunday Animal Market of Karakol. Later, we take a full-day exploration of Altyn-Arashan valley on a Russian 4×4 Truck with bumpy road, where you can have a nice warm bath at one of the hot springs or hike around the area. Later, we return to Karakul.Overnight at Hotel (BD)
In the morning, we drive to Jety Oguz Canyon, a lush green valley with striking red sandstone rock formations – the ‘Seven Bulls’ from which the valley takes its name. Here you have chance for some short hiking or an optional horseback ride through the beautiful scenery before a picnic lunch. Later in the afternoon, we drive to Bokonbaeva village where you will have chance to watch eagles hunting rabbits. Later, visit the Women’s Craft Centre which makes shyrdaks (felt rugs) and other colored felt products.
Overnight in typical Kyrgz yurt in Bokonbaeva village (BD)
In the morning we drive to Kyzyl-Tuu village where a member of a Kyrgyz family will show you how to make traditional yurt tents. Continue driving to Bishkek en route we will stop in Burana Tower of 11th century.
Upon arrival in Bishkek, a city tour which includes Central Square Alatoo, White House, Parliament House, Manas on Horse Statue, Lenin Statue, and Oak Park.
We will also visit some handicraft studios of Aidai, a leading and well-known young felt-maker and designer based in Kyrgyzstan. She is an owner of Kyal Handicraft and Yurt Maker’s Non-Profitable Organizations. http://www.christensenfund.org/2013/04/26/looking-at-the-world-through-felt-eye-glasses/ Overnight at Hotel in Bishkek (BD)
Trip will end with airport transfer (B)
Nestled in the heart of Central Asia, Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan beckon travelers…
“Five Stans” – Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan.
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Ethan S. –
Kyrgyz Journeys transformed my idea of travel. Each day brought surprises, from exploring ancient Silk Road sites to savoring local delicacies. Their dedication to sustainability and community immersion sets them apart. Truly an exceptional journey.