Adventure along the Silk Road

Experience the magic of Uzbekistan with intimate small group tours (6-10 people) led by a local English-speaking guide. Discover ancient Silk Road cities, stunning architecture, mountain landscapes, and warm hospitality in the heart of Central Asia. Wander through vibrant bazaars filled with handcrafted ceramics, traditional textiles, handmade silk scarves, dried fruits, aromatic spices, juicy fresh fruits. Shopping in Uzbekistan offers exceptional value—and unforgettable treasures to take home.

Explore Our Tours

Why Choose Our Tours?

My tours blend cultural immersion with comfort, giving you insider access to hidden gems and local experiences that only a local can provide. Every journey is carefully crafted to showcase the best of Uzbekistan's rich history and stunning Islamic architecture.

Travelers in Uzbekistan can conveniently use international bank cards, including Visa and Mastercard, at most hotels, restaurants, and larger shops. ATMs are widely available in major cities and accept foreign cards. Cash is also commonly used, especially in local markets and smaller establishments. US dollars (USD) are widely accepted in certain tourist areas, and currency exchange services are readily available throughout the country. For ease of travel, it is recommended to carry a combination of card and cash.

Suraya, your Uzbekistan tour host

Meet Your Host

Hi, my name is Suraya.

I was born and raised in Uzbekistan and have been living in New Zealand for over 20 years. I speak both English and Russian, and understand the cultures of both countries.

I'll be traveling with you from New Zealand, guiding the group throughout our journey, and I'll be by your side for our entire Uzbekistan adventure - sharing the real Uzbekistan: its history, culture, delicious food, warm hospitality, and hidden gems.

— Suraya

Tour Highlights

What makes our Uzbekistan experience unforgettable

Untouched and Authentic: Unlike many historic destinations, Uzbekistan hasn't been overwhelmed by mass tourism. Here, you can wander through 2,000-year-old streets without fighting crowds, strike up genuine conversations with locals, and discover places that feel like your own secret find. It's travel as it used to be—adventurous, meaningful, and real.

Uzbekistan is special because it offers something increasingly rare in our modern world: a journey that truly transforms. It's a place where history isn't locked behind glass but lives in the daily rhythms of life, where beauty takes your breath away at every turn, and where you're reminded of the enduring power of human creativity, resilience, and kindness.

Ancient Islamic Architecture

Ancient Silk Road Cities

Explore UNESCO World Heritage sites including Samarkand, Bukhara, and Khiva - legendary cities of the Silk Road with stunning Islamic architecture dating back centuries. Witness the magical Registan Square light show and explore perfectly preserved medieval fortresses.

Traditional Uzbek Crafts

Artisan & Cultural Workshops

Visit master craftspeople creating traditional ceramics, silk textiles, hand-carved wood, and handmade paper. Watch ancient techniques passed down through generations including silk carpet weaving and mulberry paper making in Konigil village.

Traditional Uzbek Cuisine

Culinary Journey

Savor authentic Uzbek cuisine including plov (national rice dish), fresh non bread from tandoor ovens, succulent kebabs, and local sweets. Enjoy meals with local families, visit the Plov Museum, and try Georgian cuisine. Experience dining in traditional chaikhanas and modern restaurants alike.

Small Group Tours

Small Groups & Free Time

Limited to 6-10 participants for a personal, intimate experience. Flexibility to adapt to group interests with built-in free days for independent exploration, shopping, and relaxation. More meaningful interactions with locals and time to truly absorb each destination.

Charvak Lake, Chimgan Mountains

Mountain & Desert Adventures

Experience the otherworldly beauty of the Kyzylkum Desert, ancient caravanserais, and the stunning Chimgan Mountains. Take a cable car to Kumbel Ridge (2,300m), enjoy the turquoise waters of Charvak Lake, and visit the modern Amirsoy resort for breathtaking panoramic views.

Local Guide Experience

Local Expert Organizer

Led by a native Uzbek organizer who shares insider stories, cultural insights, and access to places off the typical tourist trail. Accompanied by a local guide who will take you around each city, bringing it to life through authentic stories, showing hidden gems, and introducing you to the true local experience. English-speaking throughout, with deep knowledge of history, culture, and the best local restaurants in every destination.

Complete 15-Day Itinerary

Grand Silk Road Journey: Tashkent to Khiva and Back

Day

1
Tashkent City

Arrival in Tashkent

Welcome to Uzbekistan! Arrive in the afternoon and settle into your hotel in the capital city.

  • Airport transfer to Welcome Inn Hotel or similar
  • Light dinner near the hotel (4:30 PM)
  • Rest and prepare for your adventure
  • Overnight at the hotel

Day

2
Chorsu Bazaar

Tashkent City Tour

Explore Tashkent's blend of ancient Islamic heritage and modern entertainment.

  • Breakfast at the hotel, tour starts at 10:00 AM
  • Visit Khast-Imam Complex, home to the world-famous Quran of Caliph Uthman
  • Lunch at Khan Chapan Restaurant
  • Explore Amir Timur Square and Museum
  • Evening visit to Magic City entertainment complex
  • Experience the stunning singing fountains with music and lights
  • Dinner at Magic City restaurants
  • Overnight at the hotel

Day

3
Samarkand Monuments

Tashkent Exploration & Train to Samarkand

Discover more of Tashkent's treasures before traveling to legendary Samarkand.

  • 9:00 AM visit to the beautiful blue Holy Assumption Cathedral
  • Immerse yourself in the bustling Chorsu Bazaar
  • Ride Tashkent's famous Metro, one of the world's most beautiful
  • Visit the Applied Arts Museum and Navoi Theater
  • Lunch at Gospitalka Gumma or similar
  • Fast train to Samarkand (evening departure)
  • Check in to hotel near Registan Square (Abra Hotel or similar)
  • Overnight in Samarkand

Day

4
Travel Day Scenery

Samarkand - Jewel of the Silk Road

Full day exploring one of the world's most magnificent ancient cities.

  • Visit spectacular Registan Square with three stunning madrasahs
  • Explore Ulugbek Observatory - a 15th century astronomical marvel
  • Gur-Emir Mausoleum - Timur's final resting place
  • Watch silk carpet weaving at a traditional factory
  • Lunch at 1:00 PM
  • Shah-i-Zinda Necropolis with breathtaking tile work
  • Bibi-Khanym Mosque - once the Islamic world's largest
  • Siab Bazaar for local crafts and food
  • Evening dinner and park walk with local ice cream
  • Overnight at the hotel

Day

5
Bukhara Architecture

Samarkand the legendary city of blue domes

Dive deeper into Samarkand's history and traditional crafts with an evening light show.

  • Breakfast at hotel, 9:30 AM start
  • Visit Afrasiab Museum and Tomb of Saint Daniel
  • Drive to Konigil village to see traditional Samarkand paper making from mulberry
  • Learn ancient papermaking techniques still used today
  • Dinner followed by spectacular Registan Square light show
  • Watch the ancient monuments come alive with lights and projections
  • Overnight at the hotel

Day

6
Artisan Workshops

Samarkand to Bukhara

Journey through the countryside to the sacred city of Bukhara.

  • Morning departure from Samarkand
  • Stop at Rabat-i-Malik Caravanserai (ancient Silk Road rest stop)
  • Scenic drive through Uzbek countryside (280 km, 4 hours)
  • Arrive in Bukhara and check in to hotel
  • Beautiful dinner at Lyabi-Khauz plaza
  • Free time to explore the atmospheric old town at your own pace
  • Overnight at the hotel

Day

7
Khiva Old City

Bukhara - The heart of the ancient Silk Road (Day 1)

Explore Bukhara's old town, a living museum of Islamic architecture.

  • Tour starts from hotel, exploring the UNESCO-listed Old City
  • Lyabi-Khauz Ensemble - the heart of old Bukhara
  • Magoki-Attori Mosque - one of Central Asia's oldest mosques
  • Chor-Minor Madrasah with its unique four minarets
  • Covered trading domes where merchants have traded for centuries
  • Kalyan Minaret, Kalyan Mosque and Miri-Arab Madrasah
  • Ulugbek and Abdulaziz Khan Madrasahs
  • Ark Fortress - ancient residence of Bukhara's rulers
  • Bolo-Khauz Mosque with beautifully carved wooden columns
  • Ismail Samani and Chashma-Ayub Mausoleums
  • 1:00 PM lunch
  • Evening dinner and stroll
  • Overnight at the hotel

Day

8
Departure Day

Bukhara - The Sacred City (Day 2)

Visit the summer palace and important spiritual sites around Bukhara.

  • Visit Sitorai Mokhi-Khosa, the last emir's stunning summer residence
  • Unique blend of Oriental and Russian architecture
  • Mausoleum of Bakhouddin Naqshbandi, founder of the Sufi order
  • House Museum of Fayzulla Khodjaev
  • 1:00 PM lunch
  • Free time for shopping, relaxation, and independent exploration
  • Dinner and evening walk
  • Overnight at the hotel

Day

9
Desert Journey

Bukhara to Khiva - Desert Journey

Cross the legendary Kyzylkum Desert following ancient Silk Road caravan routes.

  • Morning departure from Bukhara
  • Full day overland transfer through Kyzylkum Desert (480 km, 7-8 hours)
  • Follow the same route used by Silk Road caravans for centuries
  • Optional: Take the train instead (6-8 hours)
  • Packed lunch recommended as desert cafés are basic
  • Late afternoon/early evening arrival in Khiva
  • Check in to hotel in this perfectly preserved ancient city
  • Free evening to explore
  • Overnight at the hotel

Day

10
Khiva Old City

Khiva - Open-Air Museum

Full day exploring Itchan-Kala, a UNESCO World Heritage walled inner city.

  • Visit the spectacular Itchan-Kala Fortress
  • Mukhammad Amin Khan and Mukhammad Rahim Khan Madrasahs
  • Kalta-Minor Minaret with its striking blue tiles
  • Juma Mosque with 200 ancient wooden pillars
  • Tash-Khovli Palace - harem and reception halls
  • Pakhlavan Makhmud Mausoleum
  • Climb Islam-Khodja Minaret - the highest minaret in Uzbekistan
  • Panoramic views over the ancient city
  • Free time in the afternoon for independent exploration
  • Dinner and overnight at the hotel

Day

11
Khiva Free Day

Khiva Free Day

A full day at leisure to explore, shop, photograph, or simply relax in this magical city.

  • Free day to explore Khiva at your own pace
  • Return to favorite spots for photography
  • Browse artisan workshops and souvenir shops
  • Relax at a traditional teahouse
  • Climb the city walls for sunset views
  • Optional activities: cooking class, additional museum visits
  • Dinner and overnight at the hotel

Day

12
Return to Tashkent

Khiva to Urgench - Flight to Tashkent

Return to Tashkent and explore the capital's modern monuments and museums.

  • Morning transfer to Urgench airport (30 km, 45 minutes)
  • Flight to Tashkent (1 hour 40 minutes)
  • Visit Friendship of Peoples Monument
  • Monument of Courage (earthquake memorial)
  • Independence Square - Uzbekistan's main square
  • Lunch in the city
  • Visit the new Plov Museum (recently opened)
  • Dinner featuring Georgian & Caucasian cuisine at Manana or Gruzinskiy Dvorik
  • Overnight at the hotel

Day

13
Chimgan Mountains

Tashkent to Chimgan Mountains & Charvak Lake

Escape to the mountains for breathtaking scenery, cable car rides, and lakeside relaxation.

  • Morning departure to Chimgan Mountains (80 km, 2 hours)
  • Drive through picturesque villages, gardens, and mountain streams
  • Visit the brand new Amirsoy resort
  • Cable car ride to Kumbel Ridge at 2,300 meters
  • Stunning panoramic views of Big Chimgan peak (3,300m)
  • Transfer to Chimgan camp site
  • Optional: Horse riding along the mountain gorge
  • Visit beautiful Charvak Lake surrounded by green mountains
  • Lunch at local restaurant
  • Enjoy the favorite summer destination of locals
  • Return to Tashkent
  • Dinner and overnight at the hotel

Day

14
Shopping Day

Tashkent - Shopping & Cultural Experiences

Final day for shopping, cultural sites, and collecting souvenirs in the capital.

  • Breakfast at the hotel
  • Shopping at Tashkent City Mall
  • Visit Navruz Park - themed cultural park with galleries
  • Gallery of dolls in historical costumes (excellent gifts)
  • Each doll represents regional clothing traditions of different parts of Uzbekistan
  • Detailed fabrics, jewelry, and accessories showcasing local craftsmanship
  • Lunch or dinner at Opa Singillar (Sisters) Fish Center
  • Local favorite with excellent quality and flavor
  • Free time for last-minute shopping and packing
  • Overnight at the hotel

Day

15
Departure Day

Tashkent - Departure

Check out and transfer to the airport for your onward journey.

  • Check-out from hotel at noon
  • Free time until airport transfer
  • Transfer to Tashkent International Airport
  • Goodbye Uzbekistan - until we meet again!

Tour Pricing

15-day guided tour $3,500 USD per person twin share (minimum 6 participants)

Many tourism services are quoted in USD. You are welcome to pay in NZD equivalent at the exchange rate on the payment day.

Included

  • 14 nights accommodation (comfortable hotels in city centers)
  • All breakfasts, 12 lunches (optional), 13 dinners
  • All listed activities
  • English-speaking local guide throughout the entire journey
  • All ground transportation in air-conditioned vehicle
  • Train ticket Tashkent-Samarkand
  • Flight ticket Urgench-Tashkent
  • Entrance fees to all monuments and museums
  • Artisan workshop visits (paper making, carpet weaving, ceramics)
  • Chimgan Mountains cable car to Kumbel Ridge
  • Registan Square light show
  • Magic City singing fountains experience
  • Airport transfers on arrival and departure days
  • Bottled water during excursions

Not Included

  • International flights to/from Uzbekistan
  • Visa fees (many nationalities visa-free for 30 days)
  • Travel insurance (strongly recommended)
  • Meals not specified in itinerary
  • Optional cable car rides and horse riding in Chimgan
  • Personal expenses and souvenirs
  • Tips for guide and driver (optional but appreciated)
  • Camera/video fees at some sites
  • Alcoholic beverages

Note: We're happy to help arrange any of the above items and provide recommendations.

Ready to Explore Uzbekistan?

Contact us to book your journey or ask any questions

Get in Touch

I'd love to help you plan your perfect Uzbekistan adventure. Whether you have questions about the tour, want to customize the itinerary, or are ready to book, please reach out.

This comprehensive 15-day tour can be scheduled year-round, with spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) being ideal for weather. Custom dates and shorter itineraries available for private groups of 4 or more.

Tours depart with a minimum of 6 participants and maximum of 10 for the best small group experience. Early booking recommended to secure your preferred dates.

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