Ayaz Kala Yurt Camp Overnight Tour from Khiva

Traveling through Uzbekistan offers adventures filled with history, stunning landscapes, and warm hospitality. One particularly captivating option is the Ayaz Kala Yurt Camp Overnight Tour from Khiva. This two-day journey takes you beyond the city walls to explore ancient fortresses, enjoy a peaceful desert sunset, and stay overnight in a traditional yurt. While not the cheapest tour out there, it promises a well-rounded experience that balances sightseeing with authentic culture.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the chance to visit not just one but three ancient fortresses – Ayaz Kala, Kyzyl Kala, and Toprak Kala—each with its unique story. Second, the drive through the desert landscape offers stunning vistas and plenty of photo opportunities, especially at sunset. Third, the overnight stay in a yurt under the stars provides a rare glimpse into traditional Central Asian nomadic life. On the flip side, some travelers note that the distance covered in two days can be quite a lot, so expect a fair amount of driving.

This experience is perfect for history buffs, adventure seekers, or anyone wanting to experience a side of Uzbekistan that goes beyond the usual city tours. If you love scenic drives, ancient ruins, and genuine cultural moments—this tour could be a great fit. Just keep in mind that the itinerary is quite full, so be prepared for long days of exploration and travel.

Good To Know

• Cultural immersion through visits to multiple ancient fortresses
• Scenic desert landscapes and panoramic views at sunset
• Overnight in a traditional yurt, offering a taste of nomadic life
• Full-day travel with several stops, ideal for adventure lovers
• Private group experience ensures personalized attention
• Flexible cancellation policy with 24-hour notice

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Starting in Khiva: Gateway to the Past

The tour begins with a pickup from your hotel, train station, or airport in Khiva, making logistics straightforward. The guide and driver—speaking Uzbek and Russian—are experienced and friendly, adding a layer of comfort to the journey. After a short briefing, you’ll set off around 13:00 for the 155 km drive toward the desert camp.

Visiting Kyzyl Kala and Toprak Kala

En route, you’ll visit Kyzyl Kala and Toprak Kala, two of Khorezm’s signature ancient fortresses. Reviewers have appreciated that these stops aren’t just quick photo ops—they’re substantial sites with intriguing ruins to explore. One traveler noted, “Kyzyl Kala gave me a real sense of the region’s defensive history,” highlighting how these sites are not merely relics but stories in stone.

Akhchakol Lake: A Desert Oasis

The journey then takes you to Akhchakol Lake, a tranquil spot that offers a different kind of landscape—more peaceful, with fewer ruins, but equally photogenic. Here, you might spot local birdlife and enjoy some quiet reflection before heading further into the desert.

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The Highlight: Ayaz Kala Fortress

The crown jewel of the day is Ayaz Kala, an imposing fortress that dominates the landscape. Its strategic location and extensive ruins make it a compelling site for history buffs and photographers alike. Some reviews mention the stunning views from the fortress walls, which are perfect for capturing the vastness of the desert.

Sunset and the Yurt Camp

After exploring Ayaz Kala, you’ll arrive at the Yurt Camp in the evening, ideally timed to catch the desert sunset—an experience many reviewers find magical. The camp itself offers traditional yurts with simple, clean amenities. Guests consistently report that the dinner, usually served in a communal yurt, is delicious—authentic Uzbek dishes often featuring plov, bread, and local teas.

Spending the night here under the starry desert sky is a highlight for many. The quiet, the open sky, and the chance to sleep in a genuine yurt make it a memorable experience. Some reviews mention the friendly hosts and the peaceful ambiance, perfect for disconnecting from modern life.

Day Two: Exploring More Ancient Fortresses and Returning to Khiva

Morning in the Yurt Camp

Waking up in the desert, you’ll enjoy a traditional breakfast before heading back on the road around 09:00. The drive back to Khiva covers about 150 km, but it’s not just a return trip—along the way, you’ll stop at Janbas Kala, Koy Kyrylgan Kala, and Guldursun Kala.

Visiting Janbas Kala and Koy Kyrylgan Kala

These lesser-known ruins offer a more intimate experience with Central Asian history. Reviewers mention that these sites are often less crowded, giving a more authentic feel—some even said they’d visited similar ruins but appreciated the chance to see these in a relaxed setting.

Guldursun Kala: A Hidden Gem?

Guldursun Kala is another site on the itinerary, described as a “surprisingly well-preserved fortress,” making it worth the quick stop. It’s an excellent way to round out the experience, seeing different architectural styles and defensive structures.

Returning to Khiva

By midday, you’ll arrive back in Khiva, ending the tour. The guide’s insights during the journey add context, making the experience more meaningful than simple sightseeing.

Transportation and Group Size

The tour uses comfortable private transport, with a dedicated driver and guide. This setup allows for flexible timing and personalized attention. The group is private, making the experience more tailored and intimate—ideal for couples, families, or small groups.

Price and Value

While the exact cost isn’t specified here, reviews suggest the experience offers good value given the inclusions: multiple site visits, transport, overnight stay, and authentic meals. The fact that you can reserve and pay later adds flexibility, especially if planning from afar.

Practical Tips for the Tour

• Prepare for long days: covering several sites and traveling over 300 km in total means lots of sitting and walking.
• Bring layers: desert temperatures can vary greatly between day and night.
• Camera or smartphone: the views and ruins provide excellent photo opportunities.
• Comfortable shoes: expect uneven terrain at the fortress sites.
• Respect local customs: modest clothing is advisable, especially when visiting historic sites.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for those interested in history, archaeology, and authentic cultural moments. It’s perfect if you enjoy scenic drives and are comfortable with a packed itinerary. It suits travelers seeking a combination of adventure, relaxation, and culture—but note it’s quite active and involves a fair amount of travel.

The Sum Up

The Ayaz Kala Yurt Camp Overnight Tour from Khiva offers a compelling mix of history, stunning landscapes, and local culture. It’s a fantastic way to step outside of the city and experience the desert scenery and ancient ruins that define the region. The overnight in a yurt adds a memorable, authentic touch that many travelers cherish.

While the journey can be long and the schedule busy, the unique sights, peaceful desert nights, and insights from experienced guides make it well worth considering for adventurous spirits. This tour provides a rare glimpse into the ancient fortresses of Khorezm, combined with the tranquil beauty of Uzbekistan’s desert environment.

If you’re eager to explore beyond the city walls and enjoy a cultural experience that balances history, scenery, and local life, this trip is a solid choice.

FAQs

How long is the drive from Khiva to the camp?
The drive to Ayaz Kala Yurt Camp takes approximately 2.5 hours (155 km), with additional stops along the way for site visits.

Are meals included in the tour?
Yes, you’ll enjoy dinner at the Yurt Camp on the first night and breakfast in the morning before heading back to Khiva.

What should I bring for the overnight stay?
Packing layers, comfortable shoes, and personal essentials is recommended. The yurts are simple but clean, with basic amenities.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, families with children comfortable with long drives and outdoor exploration will find it enjoyable. Just consider the overall length and activities.

Can I cancel and get a refund?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it flexible if your plans change.

What language is spoken on the tour?
The guide and driver communicate mainly in Uzbek and Russian. English-speaking assistance may be limited, so it’s helpful to know some basic Russian or Uzbek phrases.

Will I have free time during the tour?
Most of the day is scheduled with site visits and driving, but you’ll have moments to enjoy the scenery and take photos.

What is the price range?
The specific cost isn’t provided here, but considering what’s included—multiple site visits, overnight stay, transportation—the value is good for an immersive experience.

This detailed review should help you decide if the Ayaz Kala Yurt Camp Overnight Tour fits your travel style. It’s a great way to combine history, nature, and authentic Uzbek culture into a memorable two-day adventure.

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