Traveling to Uzbekistan and craving a day away from the city buzz? This full-day mountain trip from Tashkent takes you through some of the most stunning landscapes in the region — from lush mountains to serene lakes, with a dash of adventure. We’ve gathered insights from travelers who’ve experienced this tour firsthand to give you an honest, detailed look at what to expect.
What makes this tour a highlight? People love the knowledgeable guides, the breathtaking views at each stop, and the excellent value for money — especially considering the variety of activities available. That said, a few reviewers mention that the vehicle air conditioning and communication could improve, so it’s worth preparing for some long summer hours.
This tour tends to suit adventurers, nature lovers, and culture seekers alike — particularly those eager to explore Uzbekistan’s rugged beauty without the hassle of planning multiple trips or rides.
Good To Know
- Stunning scenery: Expect panoramic mountain views, lush meadows, and turquoise lakes.
- Diverse activities: Options include cable cars, hiking, horseback riding, and water fun at Charvak Lake.
- Knowledgeable guides: Guides like Mirzo and others are praised for their friendliness and local knowledge.
- Great value: For $45, you gain access to multiple attractions, guided commentary, and transportation.
- Seasonal flexibility: The region changes beautifully year-round, whether snow-capped peaks or sun-drenched lakes.
- Long but rewarding day: Expect around 9 hours of exploration, with some optional extra fees for activities.
Unpacking the Itinerary
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Tashkent to Amirsoy
The day begins with a hotel pick-up or meeting point in Tashkent, usually around 8:30 AM. From there, the drive to Amirsoy Resort is comfortable and air-conditioned, with most tours being private or small-group. Amirsoy is a premier, year-round resort that offers both winter sports and summer fun. In summer, you might find yourself enjoying the outdoor pools, ropes courses, or just relaxing on the terrace, while in winter, skiing and snowboarding are the main attractions.
Travelers love the scenic drive — it’s a chance to enjoy Uzbekistan’s rolling hills and mountains before the real adventure begins. Reviewers mention that the vehicle is typically a clean, spacious Mercedes van, making the long ride much more pleasant.
Amirsoy Resort
Once at Amirsoy, you’ll have about two hours to enjoy the facilities — whether that’s riding the cable car, trying out the ropes course, or simply soaking in the mountain vistas. Several reviews highlight the spectacular cable car ride and the mountain snow, which remains a highlight if visiting in winter.
Note: Cable car tickets cost around $16-18, but the ride is worth it for the sweeping views and fresh mountain air. Reviewers like “Mirzo,” our guide, often recommend taking the cable car up to see the peaks and then enjoying a leisurely walk along the ridge.
Chimgan Mountain
Next, the tour heads over to Chimgan, a part of the Western Tian Shan range. Here, the focus is on taking in the scenery — whether through a short hike or a cable car ride. The area is known for its rugged cliffs and green meadows. Visitors say the fresh mountain air makes this stop a breath of fresh air (literally and figuratively).
Expect about an hour and a half here. The views from the cable car are consistently praised, and many reviewers note that the landscape offers fantastic photo opportunities. While there are options to ride horses or take a chairlift (costing around $15-20 or $5 respectively), many just enjoy the tranquility and panoramic vistas.
Charvak Water Reservoir
The final stop is at Charvak Lake, a favorite for locals and visitors alike. Pristine, turquoise waters sit among towering mountains — perfect for relaxing, snapping photos, or even water activities like jet skiing or swimming.
Entry fees are minimal at $2 per person for lakeside access, though some reviewers mention additional costs for water-based activities or water-side access fees of 25,000 UZS ($2.50). Many describe Charvak as “beautiful,” with brilliant shades of blue, and note that it’s a fantastic spot for a picnic or just unwinding.
Reviewers also say that the lake’s rocky shores can be sharp, and swimming might not always be comfortable, but the overall visual experience is worth it. Also, some reviews point out that water activities are seasonal, so check in advance if you’re eager to swim or rent jet skis.
The Value and Experience
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Transportation and small-group size (usually capped at 6 travelers) ensure a cozy, personalized feel. The tour is priced at $45 per person, which includes hotel pickup, guide, bottled water, and snacks like green somosa and mountain tea. All this makes it quite an affordable way to see multiple attractions without the hassle of arranging transport or tickets yourself.
A standout is the guide’s local insights. Reviewers consistently praise guides like Mirzo, Bek, and Assrorbek — calling them friendly, knowledgeable, and attentive. They often go above and beyond, sharing facts about the mountains, recommending restaurants, or even purchasing flowers for the ladies.
Food and snacks are a nice touch, with reviewers mentioning tasty local dishes and the opportunity to try Uzbek hospitality. Some note that restaurant service can be slow, and dietary requests like vegetarian options might require prior communication — so bringing some snacks might be wise if you’re particular.
Activities & Optional Extras
While many stops are free, a few activities cost extra, such as horseback riding ($15–20) or chairlift rides ($5). If you’re eager for a thrill or scenic ride, budgeting for these is a good idea. Some reviewers mention that riding the cable car, hiking, or just relaxing at the lake are the main highlights, and these often justify the additional costs.
A couple of negative notes: Some travelers experienced delays or communication issues, especially with the driver. For example, one reviewer noted that the driver was late and spoke limited English, which caused some confusion. Still, many found that the overall experience was worth it, thanks to the stunning scenery and friendly guides.
Who Is This Tour Best For?
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If you’re someone who loves nature, outdoor activities, and scenic landscapes, this trip hits the sweet spot. It’s especially good for travelers who want a mix of adventure and relaxation without straying too far from Tashkent. Families, small groups, or solo travelers will find this manageable and enriching.
However, keep in mind that the day is quite long (roughly nine hours), so if you’re not keen on extensive driving or hiking, you might find it tiring. Also, those who prefer luxury or fully air-conditioned vehicles should note that some reviewers experienced warm rides or limited amenities.
Final Thoughts
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This mountain tour offers a well-rounded glimpse of Uzbekistan’s natural beauty — from snow-capped peaks to tranquil lakes. The expert guides make all the difference, adding context and local flavor to each stop. The value for money is clear, with the chance to try activities like cable cars, horseback riding, and water fun, all included or available at reasonable extra costs.
While minor hiccups like communication or vehicle comfort have been noted, they don’t overshadow the overall experience. For those eager to explore Uzbekistan’s mountains and lakes, this tour is a fantastic choice that balances adventure, scenic beauty, and cultural interactions.
FAQs
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Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, most tours include hotel pickup from Tashkent, usually around 8:30 AM, making it easy to start your day hassle-free.
How much do the optional activities cost?
Cable car rides cost about $16-18, horseback riding is around $15-20, and chairlift tickets are roughly $5. These are paid separately if you choose to participate.
Are meals provided?
Snacks such as green somosa and mountain tea are included, and there are options for local meals at stops, but dietary restrictions like vegetarian options should be communicated in advance.
What’s the group size?
Most tours are small, with a maximum of 6 travelers, offering a personal touch and plenty of space for photos and questions.
Is this tour suitable in winter?
Absolutely. In winter, the scenery is snow-covered and ideal for skiing and snowboarding, which are part of Amirsoy’s year-round appeal.
Do I need to bring anything special?
Bring comfortable shoes for hiking, sun protection, and water. If you’re particular about water intake, consider carrying extra water, especially in summer.
Final Verdict
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This Amirsoy, Chimgan & Charvak tour is perfect for those wanting to step outside of Tashkent and enjoy Uzbekistan’s mountain scenery. It’s a well-organized, reasonably priced adventure that balances outdoor fun with cultural insights. Expect stunning vistas, friendly guides, and enough activities to make the trip memorable — just be prepared for a full day and some seasonal variability.
If you’re chasing picture-perfect landscapes, a touch of adventure, and friendly service, this tour offers a genuine taste of Uzbekistan’s natural charms.