This ancient Silk Road city’s guided tours cut straight to the heart of what matters – stunning Islamic monuments and authentic cultural experiences. Standing out among the offerings is the full-day “Seven Saints” private tour, which I consider a spiritual journey through Bukhara’s most sacred Sufi sites. The two-day yurt camp excursion to Samarkand delivers genuine culture, while the efficient one-day city highlights tour works perfectly for time-pressed travelers. Local guides consistently earn top marks for their deep knowledge and cultural sensitivity.
Check out these carefully selected tours that showcase the best of Bukhara.
Good To Know
- The Full-Day Private Guided Tour to Islamic 7 Saints of Bukhara provides a comprehensive exploration of the city’s Islamic heritage with a licensed guide.
- The 2 Days Yurt Camp From Bukhara to Samarkand offers an immersive cultural experience, including accommodation in traditional yurts and transfers between the cities.
- The Bukhara in One Day Guided Sightseeing Tour covers the major highlights of the city in 6-7 hours, including lunch, entrance tickets, and complimentary photography.
- The tours provide valuable insights into Islamic culture and Sufism, with emphasis on respectful behavior and dress code at holy sites.
- While most tours are not wheelchair accessible, they are designed to accommodate a range of travelers, with stroller-friendly options and recommendations for hot weather.
Full-Day Private Guided Tour to Islamic 7 Saints of Bukhara
Although Bukhara is renowned for its wealth of historic and architectural wonders, the Full-Day Private Guided Tour to Islamic 7 Saints of Bukhara offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore the city’s rich Sufi heritage.
Priced from €154.93 per person, this full-day tour is operated by Malika ST Tours and provides a comprehensive exploration of the city’s seven most revered Sufi shrines.
Led by a licensed guide, the tour includes private transportation, entrance tickets, and all applicable fees and taxes. Guests can opt for hotel pickup or head directly to the meeting point at Hotel Malika-Bukhara.
While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, most travelers can participate. Reviewers praise the tour’s insightful guide, friendly driver, and valuable insights into Islamic culture and Sufism.
The only additional costs are for lunch (€10 per person) and optional photo/video fees (€1-€2 per site) paid directly at the museums.
Read our full review: Full-Day Private Guided Tour to Islamic 7 Saints of Bukhara Review
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2 Days Yurt Camp From Bukhara to Samarkand Self-Guided Tour
This self-guided yurt camping tour takes travelers on a two-day journey from Bukhara to Samarkand, immersing them in Uzbekistan’s stunning natural landscapes.
The tour costs from €338.90 per person, with the price varying based on group size. Dinner and breakfast are provided, and all transfers, including hotel pick-up and drop-off, are included. Entrance fees to sights, an English guide, and gratuities are also part of the package.
Travelers will stay in a yurt camp, which is open from late March to late October. The yurts have shared bathrooms, basic amenities, and proper beds with firm mattresses. Two people can stay in each yurt.
The road conditions to the camp are described as long and shaky, with the first part on a good road and the overall condition being poor.
Cultural considerations include covering shoulders and knees when visiting the Chashma Spring complex, and women should cover their hair with a headscarf or shawl in holy places.
Sunscreen is recommended if visiting the Chashma Spring complex during hot weather.
Read our full review: 2 Days Yurt Camp From Bukhara to Samarkand Self-Guided Tour Review
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Bukhara in One Day Guided Sightseeing Tour
For travelers seeking to make the most of their time in Bukhara, the Bukhara in One Day Guided Sightseeing Tour offers a comprehensive exploration of the city’s UNESCO-listed historic center.
Spanning 6-7 hours, including a lunch break, this private tour provides an in-depth look at the city’s architectural gems, led by an English-speaking guide.
The tour includes entrance tickets to the monuments, a delicious lunch, and complimentary photography for phone cameras. Priced from €74.56 per person, with the price varying based on group size, the tour represents excellent value.
The meeting point is at Asia Bukhara, and the tour returns to the same location, making it easily accessible via public transportation.
While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, it’s stroller-friendly, and most travelers can participate. Visitors are advised to dress modestly, covering shoulders and knees, and women should bring a headscarf for holy sites.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a reserve now, pay later option, this guided tour offers a seamless and enriching way to discover the wonders of Bukhara.
Read our full review: Bukhara in One Day Guided Sightseeing Tour Review
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Customize the Tour Itinerary to My Preferences?
Yes, most tour providers in Bukhara offer customizable tour itineraries. Clients can work with the guide to adjust the tour schedule, activities, and sights based on their interests and preferences for a more personalized experience.
Are There Any Discounts or Special Offers Available?
Yes, many guided tour companies in Bukhara offer discounts and special offers. Travelers can often find deals on group tours, student/senior discounts, or packages that include multiple attractions. It’s best to check with individual tour operators for their current offers.
How Do I Get to the Tour Meeting Point?
The tour meeting point is typically located in the city center or at a prominent landmark. Many tour operators offer shuttle services or provide detailed instructions on how to reach the starting point using public transportation. It’s best to check with the specific tour provider for the most up-to-date information.
Can I Bring Children on the Tours?
Yes, children are welcome on the guided tours. Many tour operators accommodate families and provide special activities or discounts for children. It’s best to check with the specific tour company about their policies and any age restrictions.
What Should I Pack for the Tours?
When packing for guided tours, travelers should bring comfortable walking shoes, sunscreen, a hat, water, and light layers of clothing. It’s also a good idea to pack snacks and a camera to capture the sights along the way.
The Sum Up
Bukhara offers a variety of guided tours that cater to different interests and budgets. Travelers can choose from a full-day private tour of the city’s Islamic sites, a two-day self-guided yurt camp adventure, or a comprehensive one-day sightseeing tour. These guided experiences provide an in-depth exploration of Bukhara’s rich cultural heritage and historical landmarks, ensuring visitors make the most of their time in this captivating Central Asian destination.