11-Day Uzbekistan Hiking & Cultural Tour

Overview

Day by day itinerary

1. 1Arrive in Tashkent⌄

   Arrive at Tashkent International Airport in the afternoon. You will be met by our driver and will be transferred to your hotel. Depending on the time of your arrival you may choose to go out for dinner or stay in and relax at your hotel.

   Overnight: Leader Hotel or similar

2. 2A sightseeing Tashkent tour⌄

   More than 7,000 pieces of applied art are listed by the Museum of Applied Art Fund, showcasing craftsmanship from the early 19th century to the present.

   Khast Imam is home to the oldest known Koran from 655 AD and it offers a serene and insightful experience into the Islamic culture and history of Uzbekistan.

   Chorsu Bazaar is the oldest and the largest bazaar in Central Asia. Wandering through this huge bustling market is a great way to see local people going about their daily lives.

   Go to Besh Qozon Central Asian Plov centre to see the preparation of traditional dishes, in Plov. Tons of Plov cooked in gigantic pots every day. Have lunch and continue to the next destination.

   Amir Temur Square is a significant landmark located in the heart of Tashkent, the capital city of Uzbekistan. Named after Amir Temur, also known as Tamerlane.

   The State Academic Grand Theatre of Uzbekistan named after Alisher Navoi was founded in June 1939. This is one of the leading opera and ballet theatres in Uzbekistan.

   The Tashkent metro was opened in 1977, it is the first underground in Central Asia. All stations have their own unique architectural appearance: marble, granite, traditional tilework, colorful bas-reliefs, ganch, etc.

   Meals: Breakfast

   Overnight: Leader Hotel or similar

3. 3Transfer by Train to Samarkand⌄

   In the morning, transfer to the train station for your journey to Samarkand. Upon arrival, meet your guide and begin your city tour

   Start Samarkand tour with a visit to Gur Emir Mausoleum. Gur Emir stands as a masterpiece of Timurid architecture. Its towering turquoise dome, adorned with geometric patterns and calligraphy, shelters the tombs of Tamerlane and his descendants.

   The Registan is a historic square, known for its stunning Islamic architecture. Surrounded by three madrasahs adorned with intricate tilework and impressive domes. Registan is most captivating monument in Central Asia.

   Bibi Khanym Mosque built by Timur in the 15th century, impresses with its immense size and intricate design. Its monumental entrance and towering minarets reflect Central Asian architectural mastery.

   Meals: Breakfast

   Overnight: Jahongir Premium Hotel or similar

4. 4Half-Day Samarkand Tour and Transfer to Sayyod Yurt Camp⌄

   Shah-i-Zinda necropolis is a stunning burial complex, featuring beautifully decorated mausoleums and mosques dating back to the 9th-14th centuries, showcasing exquisite Islamic architecture.

   The Afrosiab Museum showcases artifacts from the ancient city of Afrosiab, including pottery, coins, and murals that provide insight into the region's history and culture.

   Ulugbek's Observatory was built in the 15th century by the renowned astronomer and ruler, Ulugbek. The observatory featured a large sextant for measuring the positions of stars and planets with remarkable precision.

   After lunch, transfer to Sayyod Yurt Camp. Upon arrival, settle into one of the 11 beautifully decorated yurts, each comfortably equipped with 2 to 4 beds. While the yurts offer traditional charm, they also provide modern amenities for a cozy stay. Enjoy a delicious regional dinner and unwind by the warm glow of the campfire, immersing yourself in the peaceful atmosphere.

   Meals: Breakfast · Dinner

   Overnight: Sayyod yurt camp

5. 5Sayyod Yurt Camp Hiking⌄

   In the morning, embark on a challenging yet rewarding hike to the mountain plateau. At the summit, take in stunning panoramic views of Lake Aydarkul, the Nuratau Mountains, and the surrounding villages. During the hike, enjoy a picnic lunch amidst the natural beauty. Before heading back to the yurt camp, stop by the village of Sayyod to meet the locals and gain insight into their daily lives. Upon returning to the camp, if the weather permits, relax and cool off with a swim in the outdoor pool.

   Meals: Breakfast · Lunch · Dinner

   Overnight: Sayyod yurt camp

6. 6Sayyod Yurt Camp to Uhum Village⌄

   Following breakfast, set out on an easy hike in the afternoon, treating yourself to panoramic views of the Nuratau Mountains and Lake Aydarkul. Enjoy a hearty lunch at the camp before transferring to Uhum village.

   Upon arrival, you’ll be warmly welcomed by your host and shown to your homestay accommodations. After settling in, enjoy a delightful lunch with the family. Spend the afternoon relaxing on the tapchans beneath the shade of towering walnut trees, taking in the peaceful atmosphere and getting to know your hosts. In the evening, take a leisurely stroll through the village to observe daily life or assist the family in preparing Plov, a traditional dish made with locally sourced vegetables and fragrant mountain spices.

   Meals: Breakfast · Lunch · Dinner

   Overnight: Ulugbek's homestay

7. 7Uhum to Hayat Peak and Hayat Village⌄

   After breakfast, hike to Hayat Bashi Peak (2,169 m), the highest point in the Nuratau Mountains. The 3.5-hour trail passes ancient irrigation channels, petroglyphs, and a walnut valley, offering views of Severtzov’s wild sheep. Enjoy panoramic vistas of the mountains, villages, and Lake Aydarkul before descending to Hayat village. Upon arrival, your host, Khushvakt Musaev, a Nature Reserve warden, will welcome you to the homestay, where a traditional dinner awaits.

   Meals: Breakfast · Lunch · Dinner

   Overnight: Shodmon's homestay

8. 8Hayat to Asraf Village and Drive to Bukhara⌄

   After breakfast, begin your hike from Hayat to Asraf village, passing Uhum and visiting the Kasymov family’s watermill. Enjoy panoramic views of the Kyzyl-Kum steppe and Lake Aydarkul. Arrive in Asraf for lunch with the family, then head to Bukhara.

   Afterward, stopping in Nurata to explore the ruins of the ancient 'Nur' fortress, founded by Alexander the Great in the 4th century BC, and visit the holy spring and Juma Mosque.

   Arrive in Bukhara in the late afternoon, check into your hotel, and spend the evening at leisure exploring the city.

   Meals: Breakfast · Lunch

   Overnight: As-Salam Boutique Hotel or similar

9. 9Sightseeing in Bukhara⌄

   Ismail Samani Mausoleum is a masterpiece of Islamic architecture, showcasing intricate brickwork and geometric patterns. Built in the 10th century, it honors Ismail Samani, a powerful ruler.

   The Chashma Ayub Mausoleum is a sacred site believed to have healing waters. Visitors can explore the peaceful gardens and experience the spiritual atmosphere of this historic site.

   Bolo Khauz Mosque is a stunning architectural marvel known for its beautiful wooden columns and tranquil reflecting pool, attracting visitors with its serene ambiance.

   The Ark of Bukhara is a massive fortress dating back to the 5th century with its towering walls, majestic gates, and rich history.

   The Ulugbek Madrasah's stunning facade, adorned with tilework and a majestic portal, welcomes visitors to explore the courtyards and classrooms that once echoed the pursuit of knowledge.

   Abdulaziz-Khan Madrasah is a stunning example of Islamic architecture. This historic madrasah once served as a center for learning and continues to captivate visitors with its beauty and cultural significance.

   Maggoki Attor Mosque's architectural masterpiece dates back to the 9th century and captivates visitors with its unique building style, ornate domes, and timeless beauty. This is the oldest known mosque in Bukhara.

   Lyabi Khause Square is surrounded by ancient buildings, bustling markets, and charming cafes. It consists of a pool, Honako of Nodir Divan Begi, Kukeldash madrassah, and Nodir Divan Begi madrassa.

   Meals: Breakfast

   Overnight: As-Salam Boutique Hotel or similar

10. 10Half day tour and transfer from Bukhara to Tashkent by train⌄

    The Bakhautdin Naqshband Mausoleum is a sacred site in Uzbekistan, honoring the Sufi saint. Visitors find peace and serenity in this beautiful and historic location.

    Sitori-i-Mokhi Khosa is the summer palace of the last Emir of Bukhara. This place mesmerizes with intricate mosaic walls, carved wooden columns, and serene gardens.

    The Chor-Bakr Necropolis is a sacred site and burial ground encompassing mausoleums and tombs dating back to the 10th century. It honors the memory of Islamic scholars and leaders, reflecting Bukhara's rich cultural and spiritual heritage.

    After the exploration, transfer to the railway station and take a train to Tashkent. Upon arrival, transfer to the hotel and check in.

    Meals: Breakfast

    Overnight: Leader Hotel or similar

11. 11Tashkent⌄

    Check out from the hotel by noon and you will be transferred to the Tashkent International Airport.

    Meals: Breakfast