12 Days Grand Uzbekistan Tour

Traveling through Uzbekistan offers a journey unlike any other. This 12-day tour promises a balanced mix of iconic sights, culture, and scenic landscapes, all led by knowledgeable guides. While the price of around $2,650 per person might seem steep at first glance, the inclusions—such as domestic flights, high-speed trains, full board, and cozy accommodations—make it a compelling value for those eager to experience the country’s highlights.

What we really love about this experience is how it combines travel convenience with authentic, local flavor—think staying in yurts at the Aral Sea or exploring UNESCO World Heritage sites like Samarkand’s Registan Square. The itinerary’s depth offers plenty of time to appreciate each destination without feeling rushed, and the guides’ expertise seems to elevate the experience even further. That said, the schedule is quite packed, and travelers with mobility issues should note the long travel days and walking tours.

This tour is best suited for history buffs, culture enthusiasts, and adventurous travelers keen on exploring Uzbekistan beyond the usual tourist trail. If you love detailed itineraries, local cuisine, and scenic landscapes, this is a trip you’ll remember. Just be prepared for a busy schedule—and possibly some chilly nights at desert camps.

Good To Know

• Authentic cultural experiences with expert guides who know the history and stories behind each site.
• Comprehensive itinerary covering major cities, UNESCO sites, and scenic areas like the Aral Sea.
• Comfortable transport including domestic flights, high-speed trains, and air-conditioned vehicles.
• Unique overnight stays like yurts near Lake Aydarkul and boutique hotels in historic cities.
• Full board ensures you experience local cuisine, with special meals like the big Plov at Besh Qozon.
• Flexible options for customizing the tour and guaranteed departures with a minimum of one guest.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring Uzbekistan in 12 Days: What You’ll Experience

This tour is designed to balance sightseeing with cultural insights, making sure you get a real sense of Uzbekistan’s diverse regions. From the bustling capital Tashkent to the haunting remnants of the Aral Sea, every step feels intentional and layered with meaning.

Day 1: Arrival in Tashkent

Starting in Uzbekistan’s capital, you’ll be greeted at the airport and transferred to your hotel. It’s a relaxed way to kick off, giving you a chance to settle in before the adventure truly begins. Expect a good sleep at one of the centrally located hotels like Silk Road Premium or Old Tashkent, which balance comfort with easy access to the city’s sights.

Day 2-3: Tashkent to Nukus and the Aral Sea

Early morning, a domestic flight whisks you from Tashkent to Nukus, the gateway to exploring Uzbekistan’s western regions. The flight is included, saving time and avoiding long overland drives. Once in Nukus, you’ll start discovering the city’s famed art scene at the Savitsky Museum, but the real highlight lies ahead—the Aral Sea.

Traveling to the Aral Sea is a truly sobering experience. You’ll stay overnight at the Besqala Yurt Camp, a chance to sleep in a traditional tent and wake up to views of the desert and salt flats. Travelers have mentioned that this part of the trip offers a stark contrast to the urban stops, reminding us of the environmental challenges faced by this region.

Day 4-5: Khiva’s Ancient Walls

From Nukus, a drive and train journey will take you to Khiva, a city almost frozen in time. The UNESCO UNESCO-listed Itchan Kala fortress is the star of this stop, with its well-preserved walls and maze-like streets. Highlights include the Kalta-Minor minaret, the Kunya-Ark citadel, and the Juma Mosque.

The guide-led city tour here is detailed, with visitors noting that guides like Azamat, who is both knowledgeable and personable, bring the history alive. “I loved the way he explained the stories behind each monument,” one reviewer said. You’ll also visit Madrasahs and the mausoleum of Pakhlavan Makhmud—an important spiritual site.

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Day 6: Khiva to Bukhara by train

Traveling by train provides smooth, scenic transit between these historical cities. The train from Khiva to Bukhara, included in the tour, offers a glimpse of Uzbekistan’s countryside and local life. Upon arrival, you’ll settle into a boutique hotel—perfect for exploring Bukhara’s layers of history.

Day 7: Bukhara’s Architectural Marvels

Bukhara is a city of legends, and with a guide, you’ll explore key sites like Lyab-i-Hauz, the Ark Fortress, and the stunning Poi Kalyan Mosque. The atmosphere is vibrant, with the bustling Siyob Bazaar adding flavor and local color. The guide’s insights into Bukhara’s spiritual past make the visit even richer.

Day 8-9: From Bukhara to Nurata and Lake Aydarkul

A scenic drive takes you to Nurata, a city founded by Alexander the Great, adding a touch of historical intrigue. Here, you’ll visit religious sites and explore Nurata’s old fortress before heading to the desert yurt camp near Lake Aydarkul. Sleeping in a yurt offers a genuine nomadic experience, with some guests commenting on the peacefulness of the desert night and the starry sky.

The visit to Lake Aydarkul and the nearby village of Dungalak reveals rural life and traditional customs. The peaceful setting is a refreshing change from the bustling cities.

Day 10: Samarkand and Shakhrisabz

The legendary city of Samarkand is next, with its awe-inspiring Registan Square—an iconic UNESCO site. Guided tours include the Gur Emir Mausoleum and the impressive Bibi-Khanym Mosque, with the guide sharing stories that bring the ancient city to life.

A day trip to Shakhrisabz adds another layer of history, with sights like the Ak Saray Palace and Kok Gumbaz Mosque. The highlight here is the chance to see the architectural and artistic achievements of Amir Timur’s legacy.

Day 11: Back to Tashkent

Returning to Tashkent by high-speed train, you’ll explore the city’s modern and historical landmarks, including the famous Chorsu Bazaar, the Museum of Applied Arts, and Earthquake Memorials. The guided city tour offers an excellent overview, with travelers noting how well the guides explain Uzbekistan’s recent history and culture.

Day 12: Departure

On your last day, the tour wraps up with a city tour of Tashkent’s key sites before heading to the airport. The included guide and transportation make for a smooth goodbye to Uzbekistan.

The Value of This Tour

While $2,650 per person may seem like a lot, it’s important to see what’s included. The tour covers all your internal flights, trains, accommodations, meals, and expert guides—plus cultural experiences like folklore shows and light displays in Registan Square, if available. The accommodations range from boutique hotels to traditional yurts, blending comfort with authenticity.

The guided aspect means you’ll gain a deeper understanding of Uzbekistan’s history and local traditions—something you might miss if exploring alone. For those eager to see Uzbekistan’s highlights without the stress of logistics, this tour offers a well-organized, immersive experience.

The inclusion of full-board meals is a real bonus, allowing you to enjoy local dishes like Plov, kebabs, and bread daily. Plus, the opportunity to sleep in a desert yurt or by the Aral Sea adds a memorable touch that’s hard to replicate on independent travel.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience suits travelers who want a comprehensive, guided overview of Uzbekistan, especially those interested in history, architecture, and cultural traditions. It’s perfect for first-time visitors wanting a stress-free way to see the country’s highlights. However, note the busy schedule and the long travel days—so it’s best for those comfortable with some physical activity and variable sleeping arrangements.

Final Thoughts

The 12 Days Grand Uzbekistan Tour offers a thoughtfully curated journey through some of Central Asia’s most compelling sights. The combination of expert guides, scenic travel modes, and authentic accommodations ensures a well-rounded experience. It’s a fantastic choice for travelers eager to go beyond surface-level sightseeing and truly connect with Uzbekistan’s soul.

The tour’s value lies in its inclusiveness, itinerary depth, and the chance to see iconic sites like Samarkand’s Registan and the haunting Aral Sea. It’s ideal for history lovers, culture fans, and those craving a mix of adventure and education.

If you’re after a well-organized, enriching trip that balances comfort with cultural authenticity, this tour is definitely worth considering. Just prepare for a busy schedule—and pack your curiosity and camera.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
Given the long travel days and walking involved at sites like Khiva and Bukhara, it may not be ideal for travelers with mobility challenges.

Are international flights included?
No, international flights are not included, so you’ll need to arrange your own arrivals and departures.

What are the accommodation options?
You’ll stay in a mix of boutique hotels, guesthouses, and yurts, depending on the destination. The accommodations generally offer double/twin rooms and are centrally located.

Can I customize this tour?
Yes, the tour allows for customization; however, guides and availability might be affected if bookings are made less than 60 days before departure.

What’s the best time to take this tour?
While not explicitly stated, Uzbekistan’s best travel times tend to be spring and autumn, when weather is mild and pleasant.

Are meals included?
Yes, full board is provided, giving you the chance to enjoy local cuisine at each step of your journey.

This 12-day tour balances historical exploration, scenic landscapes, and culture, making it an excellent choice for those eager to experience Uzbekistan’s highlights in a guided, comfortable setting.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby