Uzbekistan
DURATION: 12 Days
START/END: Tashkent
START DATE: 23 August 2024
TOUR COST (Twin Share): USD 2995
SINGLE SUPPLEMENT: USD 395
MAX GROUP SIZE: 14
PHYSICAL LEVEL: Moderate
Discover Uzbekistan and its legendary Silk Road cities
Explore the bustling bazaars of Tashkent and the ancient, fabled cities of Samarkand, Bukhara and Khiva on this immersive Byroads adventure. Witness both the iconic highlights and lesser-known gems, along with many of the Islamic world’s most exquisite architecture.
Delve into the history and culture of this country where ancient madrassahs, mosques, and caravanserais await. Marvel at the exquisite beauty of the Registan, wander ancient Shahrisabz, explore the fortress Arks, traverse the Kyzyl-Kum desert, sip tea with locals or enjoy an authentic hammam.
You’ll be in good company the entire trip. Local guides with a wealth of knowledge will deepen your adventure. Your Byroads host will support you throughout the trip. And a small bunch of fellow wanderers will create meaningful memories alongside you.
Moments you’ll love
- Uncovering the delights of Tashkent
- Witnessing the breath-taking Registan in fabled Samarkand
- Experiencing local hospitality in Bukhara
- Getting lost inside the labyrinth of colourful bazaars
- Wandering the alleys of UNESCO listed Khiva
Lodgings you’ll adore
- Modern 4-star hotel in Tashkent, with pool, restaurant, and all amenities
- Restored former merchant residence in the heart of Old Bukhara
- Boutique hotel within the historical fortress of Khiva’s ancient walled city
DAY 1: TASHKENT
Arrive at Tashkent Airport and transfer to your hotel | Settle in and meet up with your group in the evening.
Navruz Hotel Tashkent (or similar) – The stylish Navruz Hotel Tashkent has a restaurant, seasonal outdoor swimming pool, a fitness centre and bar. The property features a garden, as well as a terrace. The hotel has a great location and is just a short drive to many of Tashkent’s finest sites.
DAY 2: TASHKENT
Be guided around the extensive Khast Imam Complex with its madrasa and two 16th-century mosques| Immerse yourself in the delights of Chorsu Bazaar | Amble through the excellent Museum of Applied Arts | Ride the impressive Tashkent Metro. (B)
Navruz Hotel Tashkent – (or similar)
DAY 3: SAMARKAND
Take the high-speed train to Samarkand | Explore the Ulugh Beg Observatory built in 1420 to study the stars | Tour the jewel of Samarkand, the astounding Registan | Roam around the Mosque of Bibi Khanum | Settle into the hotel for your three-night stay. (B)
Ideal Hotel (or similar)
DAY 4: KONIGIL AND SAMARKAND
Wander the exquisite Shah I Zinda Complex and admire the astonishing tile work of its mausoleums | Travel to nearby Konigil and witness the ancient art of papermaking | Be entertained whilst learning the secrets of Uzbek rugs. (B)
Ideal Hotel (or similar)
DAY 5: SHAHRISABZ AND SAMARKAND
A full-day excursion over the Pamir-Alay Mountains to the World Heritage town of Shahrisabz, birthplace of Timur | Return and spend your final night in Samarkand. (B)
Ideal Hotel (or similar)
DAY 6: BUKHARA
Travel to Bukhara and stop to explore the Ribati Malik Caravanserai along the way | Arrive at Bukhara mid-afternoon and be guided through the old quarter | Settle in for your three-night stay in the hotel – just metres from central, ancient Lyab-i Hauz. (B)
Grand Nodirbek Hotel (or similar) – Located in the very heart of old Bukhara, this restored former merchant’s home features traditional Uzbek-style rooms with air conditioning and private facilities.
DAY 7: BUKHARA
Marvel at the Mausoleum of Ishmail Samani, built before 943 AD | Enter and explore The Ark, the central citadel of old | Investigate other highlights, including Ulugh Beg Madrasa and the Kalyan Complex and Minaret | Tonight, enjoy local hospitality and a special evening meal. (BD)
Grand Nodirbek Hotel (or similar)
DAY 8: BUKHARA
A free day to wander the wonderful, covered bazaars, craft centres and teahouses of old Bukhara | Explore the local antique hammam where you can opt for a traditional bath-house experience. (B)
Grand Nodirbek Hotel (or similar)
DAY 9: KHIVA
Drive the long road across the Kyzyl-Kum Desert to the UNESCO-listed, walled city of ancient Khiva | Take an orientation walk, feeling like you’ve stepped back in time and into 1001 Arabian Nights (B)
Malika Kheivak Hotel (or similar) – Perfectly located within the old walled city, right next to the Islam Khoja Minaret, this boutique hotel is filled with character and features comfortable rooms in the national style. Best of all? All the sites are within walking distance.
DAY 10: KHIVA
Prepare to be mesmerized exploring the major sites – including Kunya Ark, Djuma Mosque, the Madrasa of Muhammed Amin Khan, the mausoleum of Pahlavan Mahmud, and the Tash Khauli Palace | Spend the late afternoon losing yourself amongst the ancient bazaars and alleyways. (B)
Malika Kheivak Hotel (or similar)
DAY 11: TASHKENT
Take the morning at leisure for final adventures in this ancient city | In the afternoon, drive to Urgench for the evening flight to Tashkent. (B)
Navruz Hotel Tashkent (or similar)
DAY 12: TASHKENT
Breakfast concludes your tour | Taxis to the airport are available, or Byroads can organise a transfer on request. (B)
Navruz Hotel Tashkent (or similar)
What’s Included
GUIDES
Byroads tour host, national and local guides
TRANSPORT
Arrival transfer, air conditioned mini-bus, 1 domestic flight, high-speed train
ACCOMMODATION
11 nights’ accommodation (3 to 4-star hotel average)
MEALS
11 breakfasts, 1 dinner
TICKETS
Entrance fees to indicated sites
Due to currency volatility, trip fees are calculated in US Dollars. However, you will be charged in Australian dollars. Currency conversion is based on the Westpac Bank buying rate on your balance due date.
Meet your trip host
Ready for travel without logistical nightmares? Your trip host has got you covered.
Every Byroads tour is supported by Steve or Bronny – two experienced travellers with a genuine passion for people. They take care of all the nitty-gritty details to ensure your trip runs smoothly – and you can focus on enjoying the moment.
Steve heads up Byroads and has over 35 years of experience in the travel industry. He’s designed and operated holidays to some of the world’s most fascinating destinations.
Like her brother, Bronny shares a keen curiosity about the world. Independently, she has journeyed far and wide – and has worked as a tour leader throughout Europe, Asia and Australia.
