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Uzbekistan & Turkmenistan Silk Road Cultural Discovery Tour

East Meets West Journey from Tashkent to Khiva


Experience the best of East and West on this extraordinary journey through Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan. Delight in the natural beauty of the northern Silk Road route's immense deserts and rich cultural heritage. Explore some of the region's most stunning ancient and modern cities, from Tashkent and Samarkand to Bukhara and Khiva. Visit bustling bazaars; explore mosques, mausoleums, and palaces; take in local folk performances; and sample traditional regional cuisine. Let MT Sobek guide you on this adventure of a lifetime along the Silk Road — part of the world where few Westerners go!

12 Days • 11 Nights

Experience the best of East and West on this extraordinary journey through Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan. Delight in the natural beauty of the northern Silk Road route's immense deserts and rich cultural heritage. Explore some of the region's most stunning ancient and modern cities, from Tashkent and Samarkand to Bukhara and Khiva. Visit bustling bazaars; explore mosques, mausoleums, and palaces; take in local folk performances; and sample traditional regional cuisine. Let MT Sobek guide you on this adventure of a lifetime along the Silk Road — part of the world where few Westerners go!

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Travel through the heart of the northern Silk Road - one of world's great cultural crossroads

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Explore Bukhara's UNESCO-listed old quarter brimming with ancient mosques and caravansaries

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Visit the marbled city of Ashgabat with its legendary bazaar and marvel at minarets in Khiva

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Highlights


  • Travel through the heart of the northern Silk Road - one of world's great cultural crossroads
  • Explore Bukhara's UNESCO-listed old quarter brimming with ancient mosques and caravansaries
  • Visit the marbled city of Ashgabat with its legendary bazaar and marvel at minarets in Khiva

Uzbekistan and Turkmenistan Silk Road Cultural Discovery

Start: Tashkent, Uzbekistan  End: Tashkent, Uzbekistan

Itinerary


  • Welcome to Uzbekistan

    Day 1

    Welcome to Tashkent! Meet your MT Sobek nrepresentative at the airport and transfer to your hotel. This evening, meet your MT Sobek guide and enjoy dinner at a local restaurant, then return to the hotel for a restorative rest after your travels.

    Accommodation: Hyatt Regency Hotel Tashkent

  • Take the Train to Samarkand

    Day 2

    After breakfast, watch the scenery slide by, riding the Afrosiyob high-speed train to Samarkand, a historic and central part of the old Silk Road. On arrival, set off to explore some of Samarkand's most notable arches, domes, and minarets, marveling at Guri Emir, the mausoleum and burial place for Amir Temur and his family, and regal Registan Square, with its intricately designed and vibrantly colored blue-tiled mosques and madrassas (Muslim schools). See the massive mosque of Bibi Khanum, and the adjacent colorful market, where aromatic cardamom, coriander, and saffron make wonderful mementos to tuck in your suitcase. Meet local artisans and see their silk and ceramic creations, followed by a traditional dinner at a historic UNESCO-protected home. After this exceptional welcome dinner, step outside to an enchanting nighttime view of Registan Square and marvel at the glowing monuments.

    Accommodation: Movenpick Samarkand
    Accommodation: Royal Hotel

    Transportation: 2.5 hour train ride

    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

  • Explore the Legendary City of Samarkand

    Day 3

    Begin today's tour at the regal mausoleums of Shah-i-Zinda, he site of Central Asia's most sacred Islamic shrine. Visit the former mansion of Abram Kalandarov, a wealthy Jewish man, which is now a museum of local lore, and Alexiy Cathedral. At the Koni Ghil Silk Paper Center, learn the process of silk paper production and see how Samarkand's fabled flatbread is created. Before dinner at a local restaurant, enjoy a wine tasting at Khovrenko Winery.

    Accommodation: Movenpick Samarkand
    Accommodation: Royal Hotel

    Activity: City touring

    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

  • Take the Train to Bukhara and Visit its UNESCO-Listed Sites

    Day 4

    This morning, transfer to the train station for a trip on the Afrosiyob high speed rail line to Bukhara. Explore the city, with its bustling trading domes and active mosques, including Kalyan Minaret, one of Central Asia's tallest towers, and the ancient Silk Market. Taste splendid herbal teas at Retro-Saloon Timur. Tonight enjoy a cooking demonstration and dinner of plov, a local lamb and rice pilaf dish.

    Accommodation: Omar Khayyam Hotel
    Accommodation: Minorai Kalon

    Activity: City touring

    Transportation: 2-hour high speed train transfer

    Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

  • Stroll the Streets of Old Bukhara

    Day 5

    Step back in time as you wander the old town center, where locals chat endlessly while drinking tea around a natural oasis spring. Bukhara's UNESCO recognition has resulted in restorations of some of its 11th- to 15th-century mosques, including Bolo Hauz Mosque, Chashmai Ayub, and Magokki Attori Mosque. Visit Bukhara's massive fortress, the Ark, and Ismail Samani's beautiful 10th-century mausoleum.

    Accommodation: Omar Khayyam Hotel
    Accommodation: Minorai Kalon

    Activity: City touring

    Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

  • Cross into Turkmenistan & Discover Historic Mary

    Day 6

    After breakfast, drive to the Turkmenistan border and on to Mary — known as Merv in ancient times — a city on an oasis in the Karakum Desert. En route, stop for lunch in Turkmenabat. An important hub on the ancient Silk Road, Turkmenabat once connected Bukhara with Khiva and Merv. For about 300 years, Merv was the largest city in Central Asia and the Khalifat capital for eight years. During the 12th century, it was said to be the world's biggest city. Today Merv is a UNESCO-listed World Heritage Site with the remnants of walled cities containing mosques, monasteries, and mausoleums in its historic center. Explore some of these sights before enjoying a hearty dinner.

    Accommodation: Margush Hotel

    Activity: City touring

    Transportation: 6-hour private van transfer

    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

  • Spend the Morning in Merv & Fly to Ashgabat

    Day 7

    This morning delve into more of ancient Merv, the oldest and best-preserved of the oasis-cities along the Silk Route in Central Asia. Visit the History Museum and other sites, before transferring to the airport for an evening flight to Ashgabat, the capital of Turkmenistan. Its gleaming domes, monuments, minarets, and lavish palaces make it feel like an enchanted city.

    Accommodation: Yyldyz Hotel-Ashgabat

    Activity: City touring

    Transportation: 40-minute flight

    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

  • Tour Ashgabat's Tombs & Sanctuary of Parthian Kings

    Day 8

    Today browse the city's famous Sunday bazaar, a truly medieval experience! Everything from camels to auto parts to world-famous Bukhara rugs — both new and old — are sold. After you've had your fill, see more of Ashgabat, including the majestic Turkmenbashy Ruhy Metjidi, one of the biggest mausoleum complexes in Central Asia, containing the tombs of Turkmenbashy (the former ruler of Turkmenistan) and his family. Visit the ruins of Nissa, the former seat of the Parthian kings and an important Silk Road trading town, then some of the city's modern sights. After dinner, drive Ashgabat's main avenues to take in its brightly lit buildings and monuments. This exquisite city is listed in the Guinness Book of World Records as having more white marble than any other in the world!

    Accommodation: Yyldyz Hotel-Ashgabat

    Activity: City touring

    Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

  • Arrive in the Ancient City of Khiva

    Day 9

    This morning, transfer to Ashgabat Airport for a flight to Dashoguz. Upon arrival, take a 35-minute drive to wht was once one of the most impressive fortresses of the Middle Ages: the ruins of Yzmukshir Fortress, birthplace of famous scientist and philologist As Zamahshary. Return to Dashoguz for lunch and, leaving Turkmenistan, drive into Uzbekistan and on to Khiva, a very ancient city said to be founded by Shem, the son of the biblical Noah. Visit a Khorezmian singer's house and enjoy traditional music. The Khorezm people are an ethnic group with their own dialect, known for their musical traditions. There will be time to rest before dinner at the hotel.

    Accommodation: Farovon Khiva
    Accommodation: Asia Hotel

    Activity: City touring

    Transportation: 1-hour flight & 1.5-hour private van transfer

    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

  • Tour Old Khiva

    Day 10

    After breakfast at the hotel, set off on a walking tour of old Khiva, visiting Kunya-Ark fortress, several mosques, madrassas, and minarets. The walled city of Khiva hosts more than 50 monuments, making it a true archaeological treasure. The afternoon is free to explore the city on your own before convening for dinner tonight at a local family's restaurant for traditional regional fare.

    Accommodation: Farovon Khiva
    Accommodation: Asia Hotel

    Activity: City touring

    Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

  • Explore the Wonders of Tashkent

    Day 11

    Enjoy an early breakfast, before transferring to the Urgench Airport for your flight back to Tashkent. On arrival, explore the bustling and cosmopolitan city of Tashkent, with its tree-lined boulevards, verdant parks, and elaborate monuments. Take in many of the city's highlights, including the Khast-Imam Complex and its architectural marvels; the world-renowned Uthman Qur'an Friday Mosque, which houses an early copy of the Quran; the Chorsu Bazaar, a traditional market set beneath a vibrant, blue dome and the Applied Arts Museum. After lunch, visit the newer part of the city: Independence Square, Amir Temur Museum, Alisher Navoi Theater. In the late afternoon, visit ceramist Akbar Rahimov's workshop and take a tea break. This evening, enjoy a festive farewell dinner at a local Georgian restaurant.

    Accommodation: Hyatt Regency Hotel Tashkent

    Activity: City touring

    Transportation: 1.5-hour flight

    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

  • Depart from Tashkent

    Day 12

    After breakfast this morning, transfer to the airport, bid farewell to your travel companions, and depart on your homeward-bound flight.

    Meals: Breakfast

Why Travel With Us?


  • MT Sobek has led travelers on this epic Silk Road adventure for over 20 years, expertly navigating border crossings and visas.

  • Our remarkable local guides offer immense insight and expertise, and go out of their way to make you feel at home.

  • This immersive adventure takes you back in time to explore the legendary wonders of Samarkand, Bukhara, Tashkent, Khiva, and beyond.

Dates & Prices


  • 2025
  • Go Private
  • Go Custom
  • Inclusions

2025

Scheduled Dates


Price is per person, double occupancy in USD.

The earlier you book, the more choice of available dates you’ll have and once you book, your price is guaranteed.

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Go Private

Go Private


Gather your favorite travel companions to share an MT Sobek adventure on an easy-to-book Private departure.

Call or email us to get the ball rolling.

*Private trips require a 25% non-refundable deposit.


Looking for a private family adventure?


This trip can accommodate guests with a
minimum age of 13.

Private Trip Pricing: 2025


2 guests from $8,330 per person double occupancy

3 guests from $7,330 per person double occupancy

4 to 5 guests from $7,030 per person double occupancy

6 to 7 guests from $6,830 per person double occupancy

8 to 9 guests from $6,630 per person double occupancy

10 guests from $6,330 per person double occupancy

Included Costs:

Internal Airfare: $335

*Seasonal rates may apply.

*Private trips require a 25% non-refundable deposit.

Make Your Own Dates in These Months


Go Custom

Create Your Very Own Adventure


Dreaming of an adventure designed exclusively for you? With insider access and decades of experience, our travel experts create custom tailored adventures that are perfect for families, couples, and large groups. MT Sobek's custom adventures are designed to our exacting standards and led by our award-winning adventure guides.

When to start planning? Earlier is always better when designing a custom trip. More time allows for better availability of preferred accommodations, guides and your desired activities. Ideally, start the conversation with us at least 6 months before you want to travel. If you are looking for a custom trip that departs within three months, chances are greatly diminished in securing requested accommodations and the best guides.

*Custom trips require a 25% non-refundable deposit once an itinerary is agreed upon.

Start Planning

Inclusions

Price Includes


  • Expertise and services of our experienced adventure guides
  • All accommodations as noted in the itinerary
  • All breakfasts, almost all lunches and dinners as noted in the itinerary
  • Snacks and water between meals
  • Additional regional guides and experts on many trips
  • Comprehensive Trip Planner with detailed pre-trip information
  • Private guided tours at historic sites, museums, wineries and other select attractions as noted in the itinerary
  • Special events and other select attractions as mentioned in the itinerary
  • All gratuities at hotels and restaurants
  • Equipment and experienced guides for activities as described in the itinerary
  • Park and other entry fees (unless otherwise noted)
  • Fares for trains, ferries and other modes of travel as listed in the itinerary
  • Select transfers as mentioned in the itinerary
  • Baggage transfers and porterage

Price Does Not Include


  • International airfare, airport taxes, and excess baggage fees
  • Alcoholic beverages (MT Sobek provides wine at select events)
  • Gratuities for MT Sobek guides and guide-drivers
  • Travel Protection Program
  • Personal expenses

Contact An Expert


800-974-0300

Need help picking your next adventure? Call us to answer your questions.

Your Guides


The best people to immerse you in a destination are the ones who live there, which is why we feature local Adventure Guides on our trips. Here are a few that you might meet on this adventure.

Aleksandr K.

Aleksandr K.

Alex was born in Kyrgyzstan, and successfully completed his studies in history and culturology at Kyrgyz-Russian Slavic University in 2012. He soon found his passion in guiding and has led groups in Kyrgyzstan, Kazakhstan, and Uzbekistan. Alex is now a regional expert, always searching for new discoveries. Every year Aleksandr takes part in the international travel fairs in London and Berlin, representing Central Asia and the Great Silk Road. His biggest desire is to open Central Asia to the world and there is nothing but smiles from those traveling with him.

Alyona S.

Alyona S.

Alyona has led adventure travel tours through remote areas of Central Asia for over 10 years. Her local roots give her a deep insight into the culture and traditions, enabling travelers to experience Central Asian culture in a profound way. Alyona has made several presentations at UNWTO forums about tourism in Kyrgyzstan and Central Asia. As a result, she is aware of the main trends in tourism including sustainable travel, and successfully implements it with the groups she travels with. 

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This morning, transfer to the train station for a trip on the Afrosiyob high speed rail line to Bukhara. Explore the city, with its bustling trading domes and active mosques, including Kalyan Minaret, one of Central Asia\'s tallest towers, and the ancient Silk Market. Taste splendid herbal teas at Retro-Saloon Timur. Tonight enjoy a cooking demonstration and dinner of plov, a local lamb and rice pilaf dish.

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Step back in time as you wander the old town center, where locals chat endlessly while drinking tea around a natural oasis spring. Bukhara\'s UNESCO recognition has resulted in restorations of some of its 11th- to 15th-century mosques, including Bolo Hauz Mosque, Chashmai Ayub, and Magokki Attori Mosque. Visit Bukhara\'s massive fortress, the Ark, and Ismail Samani\'s beautiful 10th-century mausoleum.

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After breakfast, drive to the Turkmenistan border and on to Mary — known as Merv in ancient times — a city on an oasis in the Karakum Desert. En route, stop for lunch in Turkmenabat. An important hub on the ancient Silk Road, Turkmenabat once connected Bukhara with Khiva and Merv. For about 300 years, Merv was the largest city in Central Asia and the Khalifat capital for eight years. During the 12th century, it was said to be the world\'s biggest city. Today Merv is a UNESCO-listed World Heritage Site with the remnants of walled cities containing mosques, monasteries, and mausoleums in its historic center. Explore some of these sights before enjoying a hearty dinner.

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This morning delve into more of ancient Merv, the oldest and best-preserved of the oasis-cities along the Silk Route in Central Asia. Visit the History Museum and other sites, before transferring to the airport for an evening flight to Ashgabat, the capital of Turkmenistan. Its gleaming domes, monuments, minarets, and lavish palaces make it feel like an enchanted city.

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Today browse the city\'s famous Sunday bazaar, a truly medieval experience! Everything from camels to auto parts to world-famous Bukhara rugs — both new and old — are sold. After you\'ve had your fill, see more of Ashgabat, including the majestic Turkmenbashy Ruhy Metjidi, one of the biggest mausoleum complexes in Central Asia, containing the tombs of Turkmenbashy (the former ruler of Turkmenistan) and his family. Visit the ruins of Nissa, the former seat of the Parthian kings and an important Silk Road trading town, then some of the city\'s modern sights. After dinner, drive Ashgabat\'s main avenues to take in its brightly lit buildings and monuments. This exquisite city is listed in the Guinness Book of World Records as having more white marble than any other in the world!

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This morning, transfer to Ashgabat Airport for a flight to Dashoguz. Upon arrival, take a 35-minute drive to wht was once one of the most impressive fortresses of the Middle Ages: the ruins of Yzmukshir Fortress, birthplace of famous scientist and philologist As Zamahshary. Return to Dashoguz for lunch and, leaving Turkmenistan, drive into Uzbekistan and on to Khiva, a very ancient city said to be founded by Shem, the son of the biblical Noah. Visit a Khorezmian singer\'s house and enjoy traditional music. The Khorezm people are an ethnic group with their own dialect, known for their musical traditions. There will be time to rest before dinner at the hotel.

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After breakfast at the hotel, set off on a walking tour of old Khiva, visiting Kunya-Ark fortress, several mosques, madrassas, and minarets. The walled city of Khiva hosts more than 50 monuments, making it a true archaeological treasure. The afternoon is free to explore the city on your own before convening for dinner tonight at a local family\'s restaurant for traditional regional fare.

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Enjoy an early breakfast, before transferring to the Urgench Airport for your flight back to Tashkent. On arrival, explore the bustling and cosmopolitan city of Tashkent, with its tree-lined boulevards, verdant parks, and elaborate monuments. Take in many of the city\'s highlights, including the Khast-Imam Complex and its architectural marvels; the world-renowned Uthman Qur\'an Friday Mosque, which houses an early copy of the Quran; the Chorsu Bazaar, a traditional market set beneath a vibrant, blue dome and the Applied Arts Museum. After lunch, visit the newer part of the city: Independence Square, Amir Temur Museum, Alisher Navoi Theater. In the late afternoon, visit ceramist Akbar Rahimov\'s workshop and take a tea break. This evening, enjoy a festive farewell dinner at a local Georgian restaurant.

[Breakfast] => 1 [Lunch] => 1 [Dinner] => 1 [Travel_Type] => 1.5-hour flight [Quotation] => [Quotation_Attribution] => [Quotation_Location] => [Itinerary_Location] => [Latitude] => 41.309823 N [Longitude] => 69.26874 E ) [11] => Array ( [DayFrom] => 12 [DayTo] => 12 [Headline] => Depart from Tashkent [ActivityOverview] => [EstimatedLength] => [ActivityLevel] => [ItinBlock] =>

After breakfast this morning, transfer to the airport, bid farewell to your travel companions, and depart on your homeward-bound flight.

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Activity Level


This trip is rated activity level 2. On this trip, you will be touring cities and villages, exploring ancient sites, and visiting beautiful mosques and vibrant bazaars - as well as enjoying the warmth of each country's people. While none of the walking is particularly difficult, some days you'll be on your feet for much of the day.
Learn more about activity levels here.

Activity Snapshot

Day 3

City touring

Day 4

City touring

Day 5

City touring

Day 6

City touring

Day 7

City touring

Day 8

City touring

Day 9

City touring

Day 10

City touring

Day 11

City touring

*Mileage and elevation change information is approximate and may vary slightly depending on trail conditions, weather, and route adjustments, and the guide’s discretion.

Accommodations


Comfortable and conveniently located Silk Road hotels with modern and traditional flair.

Yyldyz Hotel-Ashgabat
Yyldyz Hotel-Ashgabat

Look out over the city and the Kopetdag, the distinctive architecture of the Yyldyz Hotel is a landmark in the city with Central Asian design. Treat yourself to a spa experience or take a dip in indoor and outdoor pools. Spacious rooms feature rain showers, espresso machines, minibars, and Wi-Fi. Dine in the restaurant or grab a snack at the pool bar. The Panoramic Bar offers gorgeous views of the city.

Hyatt Regency Hotel Tashkent
Hyatt Regency Hotel Tashkent

Hyatt Regency Tashkent boasts an excellent location near the prestigious National Library, as well as shopping, dining, and local attractions. The hotel offers spacious guestrooms and a plethora of amenities, including complimentary Wi-Fi, several restaurants, bar, 24-hour fitness center, pool, and spa. A perfect base to explore the fascinating city of Tashkent.

Omar Khayyam Hotel
Omar Khayyam Hotel

Omar Khayyam is conveniently located in picturesque old Bukhara, within walking distance of all ancient monuments, including Ulugbek's Mosque, Poi Kalyan Complex and the Ark Citadel. The hotel offers comfortable rooms with attractive designs and balconies overlooking the hotel's courtyard. There's a fine restaurant with local and international offerings, Wi-Fi in the common areas and a beautiful courtyard typical of traditional Uzbek architecture.

Movenpick Samarkand
Movenpick Samarkand

Located in the heart of Samarkand, close to historic and ancient cultural sights, mosques, mausoleums, sits an urban oasis with indoor and outdoor pools, a hammam, sauna and gym. Stylish rooms feature air conditioning, Wi-Fi, and city views. With two restaurants to choose from, serving European and Uzbek fare, you have everything you need for a comfortable stay in the UNESCO-listed city.

Farovon Khiva
Farovon Khiva

Experience luxury and comfort at Khiva's Farovon Hotel. The hotel features 106 rooms and suites with Wi-Fi, a 55" flat-screen TV, a minibar, a work place, complimentary slippers, and a bathrobe. The hotel also offers an indoor pool, a bar and three on-site restaurants that serve Mediterranean, National, and Central Asian cuisine.

Margush Hotel
Margush Hotel
The Margush Hotel, centrally located in Mary, is a modern hotel with welcoming staff. Guest rooms surround an airy atrium, and each room offers comfortable beds and attached baths, ensuring a restful stay. Splash around in the swimming pool or enjoy a traditional hammam at the spa. Guests can also enjoy dining outdoors among the surrounding lawns and gardens. Enjoy the sights of ancient Merv from this modern accommodation.
Royal Hotel
Royal Hotel
Tucked into a side street, two buildings house spacious air-conditioned rooms with comfortable bedding, plush seating, and the full range of amenities. Step into an opulent entrance graced with gilded furnishings and chandeliers. Relax in the beautiful indoor pool, tiled steam room, sauna, and Jacuzzi. The top-floor restaurant overlooks the city with both indoor and outdoor seating. The Royal is a delightful stay for your adventures in legendary Samarkand.
Minorai Kalon
Minorai Kalon
Sit looking across the Silk Road city of Bukhara on the terrace restaurant of Minorai Kalon. Enjoy the local architectural touches, such as a brick exterior, stylish arches, and vaulted ceilings, and colors reflecting the surrounding monuments. A warm welcome and friendly service are the hallmarks of this boutique hotel. Unwind in a simple, cozy climate-controlled room with attached bath and basic amenities. Book a massage for an extra treat!
Asia Hotel
Asia Hotel
Just outside the ancient walled old town of Khiva, this hotel has an excellent location for exploring the sights. Modern yet homey, comfortable rooms include ensuite baths, colorful decor, and other basic amenities. In summer, take advantage of the large, blue-tiled swimming pool surrounded by gardens. Simply put, the Asia Hotel offers one of the best locations in Khiva, directly across from the South Gate.

Weather


Temperatures will range from the low 50's F at night to the high 80's and into the 90's F during the day. It will generally be warm, dry and sunny.

 
May
Sep
Oct
Ashgabat 
High
Low
High
Low
High
Low
Ashgabat
87
62
89
61
75
50
Bukhara 
High
Low
High
Low
High
Low
Bukhara
89
61
86
56
72
45
Tashkent 
High
Low
High
Low
High
Low
Tashkent
82
57
84
56
71
46

FAQs


Who will meet me on arrival?

Our MT Sobek representative will meet you at the Tashkent Airport.

What is the highest elevation on this trip?

Please note that this entire trip is below 6,000 feet.

Do I need a visa for this trip?

Yes, you actually need two: one for Uzbekistan, which you will get on your own, and one for Turkmenistan, which you get at the border during the trip.

Do I need to bring a prescription from my doctor for my prescription medication?

Yes, you must bring it for all prescription medications and it must match your name. Please only bring the amount of medication you need for the trip.

What days will I be in each country?

You will be in Uzbekistan from Days 1 - 6 and then Days 9 - 12 and Turkmenistan from Days 6 - 9.

What is the minimum age for this trip?
The standard minimum age for this trip is 18, but check out our private trip options for families and groups with younger guests.

Guest Reviews