Premium Uzbekistan

Intrepid Travel · 10 days
Premium Uzbekistan
Premium Uzbekistan
Premium Uzbekistan
Premium Uzbekistan
Premium Uzbekistan
Premium Uzbekistan
Premium Uzbekistan
Premium Uzbekistan
Premium Uzbekistan
Premium Uzbekistan
Premium Uzbekistan
Premium Uzbekistan
Premium Uzbekistan
Premium Uzbekistan
10 Days
From AUD $3995
Trip Type
Small Group
Activity Level
Light

Rating


(20 reviews)

Premium Uzbekistan

Premium Uzbekistan

Intrepid Travel · 10 days
Duration

10 days

Tour Type

Small Group

Accommodations

Unknown

Physical Rating

Light

Guide Language

English

Experience Overview

Journey back to the days of the Great Silk Road on a 10-day Premium adventure through Uzbekistan. Explore the cosmopolitan capital of Tashkent, marvel at glorious architecture in Samarkand, discover the holy sites of Bukhara and visit the ancient monuments of Khiva.

Highlights

  • Travel with a local leader who will share the magic of Uzbekistan's ‘holiest city’ in Bukhara, tell the ancient tales of historic Khiva and guide you through the extraordinary architecture of Samarkand.
  • Uncover Tashkent’s Soviet legacy and its contemporary culture. Explore the vast Chorsu Bazaar and embrace the hustle and bustle of one of Asia's oldest markets.
  • Stay within the walls of Uzbekistan’s history during a historical Feature Stay in an old Jewish house converted into a boutique hotel in Bukhara.
  • Understand local life through food by joining a local family in Samarkand for a cooking class, where you’ll learn about the popular Central Asian rice dish of plov. Then, enjoy a taste of Khorezmian culture during a family cooking class in Khiva.
  • Dig into Samarkand’s cultural heritage on a visit with a local artisan – one of the few people in Central Asia who continues to produce paper using a 1000-year-old method. Then, indulge in a few drops at the Bagizagan winery, considered the best wine producer in Uzbekistan.

Trip Details

Duration

10 days

Transportation

Private vehicle,Metro,High-speed train,Plane

Tour Type

Small Group

Guide Language

English

Starts

Tashkent, Uzbekistan

Finishes

Tashkent, Uzbekistan

Accommodations

Unknown

Travel Style

Explorer

Physical Rating

Light

Itinerary

1
Day 1: Tashkent
Xush kelibsiz! Welcome to Uzbekistan. Your adventure begins in the largest city in Central Asia, Tashkent. The mix of Russian and Uzbek style is an indication that for many years, it was a key city of the USSR. Extravagant mosques, both ancient and new, sit alongside modern highways and Soviet monuments. When you arrive at the airport, you’ll be met by a local representative and be transferred to your hotel. You’ll have a welcome meeting at 6 pm tonight to meet your local leader and fellow travellers. If you arrive early, maybe take a walk to see some of the contemporary architecture that sets this city apart from many other Silk Road destinations. After your meeting, join your group for a welcome dinner at an excellent local restaurant serving traditional Uzbek food such as laghman noodles, norin noodles and fried dumplings.

Included Activities:

  • Tashkent - welcome dinner

Optional Activities:

  • Tashkent - Art Gallery of Uzbekistan (50000 UZS)
  • Tashkent - Museum of Applied Arts (60000 UZS)

Accommodation:

  • Hotel Inspira-S or similar (1 night) (Number of Nights: 1)
2
Day 2: Tashkent
Explore Tashkent on a city tour with your leader. First, make your way to the Khast Imom Complex, which includes the Barak Khan medressa (a college for Islamic instruction), the Kaffal Shashi Mausoleum, the Quran Library and the Mosque, which holds one of the oldest and holiest koran in the world. Then, leave behind the spiritual world and venture into the Chorsu Bazaar – one of the largest and oldest markets in Central Asia. Wandering through this giant marketplace is a fantastic way to see locals going about their daily lives. Uzbeks are some of the friendliest people in the world and with your leader on hand to bridge any language gaps, you’ll soon find yourself chatting to many locals. Your leader will show you some of Tashkent’s beautiful metro stations, then you’ll finish the tour at Amir Timur Square. With your free afternoon, you may like to visit the striking Kukeldash medressa.

Included Activities:

  • Tashkent - Chorsu Bazaar
  • Tashkent - Amir Timur Square
  • Tashkent - Khast Imom Complex & Moyie Mubarek Library Museum
  • Tashkent - City tour
  • Tashkent - Metro tour

Accommodation:

  • Hotel Inspira-S or similar (1 night) (Number of Nights: 1)
3
Day 3: Samarkand
Early this morning, take a high-speed Afrosiab train to the ancient Silk Road hub of Samarkand. The city has long been a centre of artisans and traders as well as the prize for many a conquering army, leaving behind a rich and complex history. When you arrive, stop by the gorgeous remains of the Ulugbek Observatory – built by a Muslim prince, your leader will explain how this unpopular ruler had a controversial passion for astronomy. After, explore the Afrosiab Museum – home to a treasured 7th-century fresco of the Sogdian King Varkhouman. Then, head to the workshop of a local artisan in Konigil to discover one of the few people in Central Asia who continues to produce paper using a 1000-year-old method. This village is home to the Meros paper mill, founded by well-known masters, the Mukhtarov brothers. Thanks to their efforts, the local factory revived an ancient tradition based on old Samarkand technologies. You'll also see a ceramics workshop, then you can enjoy a free evening to explore Samarkand at your own pace.

Included Activities:

  • Samarkand - Bibi-Khanym Mosque
  • Samarkand - Handmade paper workshop
  • Samarkand - Afrosiab Museum
  • Samarkand - Plov cooking demonstration & family visit
  • Samarkand - Ulugbek's Observatory

Accommodation:

  • Hotel Royal Samarkand or similar (1 night) (Number of Nights: 1)
4
Day 4: Samarkand
Today you’ll dig deeper into Samarkand’s fascinating cultural heritage with your leader. First, visit the holy Shah-i-Zinda complex – the so-called ‘Town of the Dead’ necropolis, with more than 20 beautifully decorated unique buildings. Then, head to the Gur Amir Mausoleum. Your leader will tell you all about the mighty ruler Timur, as this is his final resting place. Stand on the iconic Registan Square with three mosaic-adorned madrassas towering over you, then explore the Siob Bazaar, full of bustling stalls and friendly local traders. This afternoon, head out of the city to the Bagizagan winery, considered the best wine producer in Uzbekistan. Get a special insight into the production of Uzbek wine and try a few drops for yourself. In the evening, you’ll have the intimate Uzbek experience of joining a local family for a cooking demonstration on the traditional meal ‘plov’. Uzbek men pride themselves on their ability to prepare the most unique and delicious plov (a tasty rice dish cooked over an open flame in a traditional cauldron) and you’ll sit down to share some over dinner.

Included Activities:

  • Samarkand - Uzbek Bagizagan winery visit and tasting
  • Samarkand - City tour
  • Samarkand - Gur-e-Amir Mausoleum
  • Samarkand - Shakh-I-Zinda
  • Samarkand - Registan Square
  • Samarkand - Siob Bazaar

Accommodation:

  • Hotel Royal Samarkand or similar (1 night) (Number of Nights: 1)
5
Day 5: Bukhara
This morning, you’ll make your way to the holy and historic city of Bukhara on a high-speed train. A UNESCO World Heritage-listed site, Bukhara is widely regarded as Central Asia’s holiest city and is home to monuments dating from the 8th to the 18th century AD. When you arrive, you’ll take a tour of some of the sites with your leader. Head out to see some of the monuments – the meticulous restoration of many of the mosaic and majolica decorations gives you a true sense of how these buildings looked in their original glory. Visit the Ismail Samani Mausoleum, the Chashma Ayub Mausoleum and the Bolo-Khauz Mosque. After, head to your Feature Stay in a converted Jewish House. Historic and authentic, these houses are interestingly decorated and there’s much to explore here. This evening, head out to dinner at a local restaurant, then you’ll enjoy an Uzbek folklore and music performance at one of the city’s madrasses.

Included Activities:

  • Bukhara - Folklore & music performance
  • Bukhara - Bolo Hauz Complex
  • Bukhara - Chashma Ayub Mausoleum
  • Bukhara - Ismail Samani Mausoleum

Accommodation:

  • Converted Jewish House (feature stay) or similar (1 night) (Number of Nights: 1)
6
Day 6: Bukhara
This morning, you’ll continue to explore Bukhara with your leader. After breakfast, visit the ruins of the 5th-century Ark Fortress and the imposing Poikalon complex. Taki Zargaron and the trading domes near here still offer a colourful array of goods including embroideries, jewellery, spices, handicrafts and all manner of Silk Road treasures. This is the place to test your haggling skills and share a joke or two with local craftsman and merchants. Visit the central Lyabi-Hauz complex and its surrounding areas, which you may want to revisit during twilight hours. Then, you have the rest of the afternoon and evening free to explore at your own pace – your leader will always be on hand with great recommendations.

Included Activities:

  • Bukhara - Ark Fortress
  • Bukhara - Bolo Hauz Mosque
  • Bukhara - Chor Minor
  • Bukhara - Kalon Minaret & Mosque
  • Bukhara - Taki Zargaron Trading Dome
  • Bukhara - Lyabi Khauz Complex
  • Bukhara - City tour

Accommodation:

  • Converted Jewish House (feature stay) or similar (1 night) (Number of Nights: 1)
7
Day 7: Khiva
After a leisurely morning in Bukhara, visit Sitorai Mohi Hosa – the summer Palace of Alim Khan, Uzbekistan’s last emir. Your leader will share stories of the emir’s extravagant lifestyle as you explore the luxuriously decorated compound. Then, say your goodbyes and drive to Khiva. You’ll travel through the Kyzyl-Kum (Red Sands Desert) – the largest desert area in Central Asia that has long been inhabited by various nomadic people. Along the way, you’ll stop for photos, lunch and a walk in the desert to learn about the unique flora and fauna of the region. Stop at a few viewpoints along the way, then arrive in Khiva in the evening, where you’re free to rest and recharge after a long travel day.

Included Activities:

  • Bukhara - Sitorai Mohi Hosa Palace

Accommodation:

  • Arkanchi Hotel or similar (1 night) (Number of Nights: 1)
8
Day 8: Khiva
Take a full day to explore Khiva with your leader. This city is well preserved and perfect for exploring on foot, with impressive walls that mark the boundaries of the Old City. Your leader will guide you through the ancient monuments, including the turquoise Kalta Minor Minaret, the Khan museum, the 17th-century Juma Mosque and the Islom-Hoja Minaret and Medressa. Visit the Kuhna Ark, which was the main fortress, and look over the city from the hill of the Ak-Sheikh Baba observation platform. Finish with the tranquil 19th-century Tosh-Hovli Palace. Later, head to one of the city’s roof terraces for a glass of champagne as you watch the sunset. Tonight, join a cooking class and learn the secrets of Khorezmian cuisine. Make traditional dishes like shivit oshi (green noodles) and tuhum-barak (egg dumplings) then tuck into your creations for dinner.

Included Activities:

  • Khiva - Islom Hoja Minaret & Medressa
  • Khiva - Juma Mosque
  • Khiva - Tosh-Hovli Palace
  • Khiva - Kunya Ark
  • Khiva - Kalta Minor Minaret
  • Khiva - Sunset drinks
  • Khiva - Muhammad Rahim-khan Medressa
  • Khiva - Muhammad Amin-khan Medressa
  • Khiva - Khorezmian cuisine cooking class

Accommodation:

  • Arkanchi Hotel or similar (1 night) (Number of Nights: 1)
9
Day 9: Tashkent
Transfer to the airport in the morning for a flight to Tashkent. Admire the facade of the Navoi Theatre, named for one of the nom de plume’s of Ali-Shir Nava’I – a 16th-century writer and mystic. The multi-arched building was partially constructed by Japanese prisoners of war. Next, take a walk down the buzzing Broadway Alley, where there’s always something happening. Take some time to wander the street lined by shady trees and works from local artists. Tonight, join your fellow travellers for a final dinner and say farewell to this spectacular Silk Road country.

Accommodation:

  • Hotel Inspira-S or similar (1 night) (Number of Nights: 1)
10
Day 10: Tashkent
Your adventure comes to an end after breakfast today. If you would like to spend some more time in Tashkent, just get in touch with your booking agent ahead of time to organise additional accommodation.
Exclusions
  • Flights to and from origin and destinations
  • Airport transfers (arrival and departure)
  • Anything else not explicitly listed in tour inclusions
  • Recommended gratuities/tipping
  • Optional activities/tours
  • Personal expenses
  • Travel insurance
  • Visas, meals and beverages not stated in the list of inclusions.
Important Information
Meals

When meals are not included, your tour leader (where available) will be happy to help with restaurant recommendations, bookings, and directions. Please let us know if you have any dietary needs or preferences. We willdo our best to accommodate these, though we cannot guarantee that every request can be met.

Luggage

You are responsible for your personal belongings throughout the tour. You will need to carry your own bags between the vehicle and your hotel room. Drivers will assist with loading and unloading luggage from the vehicle.

Mobility

Travellers requiring wheelchair access should contact our sales and service team, who can make enquiries on your behalf.

Fitness Level

This tour requires an Average level of fitness. Activities are paced gently and include leisure time. You may be expected to join guided walks of up to one hour, navigate short stairways and mild inclines, and manage your own luggage. You should also be able to board and exit all transport without assistance.

Travellers are expected to be self-sufficient and capable of handling all aspects of their journey. Please discuss your circumstances and support needs with your booking agent to confirm this trip is suitable.

If you are unsure, we recommend consulting your doctor before booking or travelling. (Note: I assume each tour has a different description depending on level of fitness required).

Sightseeing

If a planned site visit is unavailable due to changes in operating hours or holiday closures, the itinerary may be altered, or a comparable activity will be substituted where possible and subject to availability.

Visas

Visa conditions can change. Once you receive your travel documents, check with the relevant embassy, consulate, or immigration office of your destination for the latest information.

  • It is your responsibility to ensure you have the correct and valid travel documents and to comply with all entry requirements.
  • Non-Australian citizens must also confirm visa and identification requirements with the appropriate consulate or visa agency.
  • Certain occupations (for example, journalists, government officials, or those working in charities) may face additional restrictions when applying for visas, which could affect the type of application required.
Departure Dates & Surcharges: See checkout for live dates and availability.
AUD $3,995
(Tour only)
Per Person Twin Share

Duration: 10 days

Trip Type: Small Group

Activity Level: Light

Journey back to the days of the Great Silk Road on a 10-day Premium adventure through Uzbekistan. Explore the cosmopolitan capital of Tashkent, marvel at glorious architecture in Samarkand, discover the holy sites of Bukhara and visit the ancient monuments of Khiva.

Price based on per person in Double Room for departure 01 Mar 2026

Customer Reviews

Overall Rating
Excellent
4.5
Guide
Excellent
4.5
Itinerary
Excellent
4.5
Accommodations
Excellent
4.5
Transportation
Excellent
4.5
Tour Operator
Excellent
4.5
Food
Excellent
4.5
4.5
Sigrid
Traveled, April 2024

04/20/2024

I loved Uzbekistan! I found out so much about this part of the world, I has no Idea how thriving and modern Tashkent is , its safe and so clean and the people just get on with their life. Just book you will love it!!

4.5
Virginia
Traveled, March 2024

04/10/2024

This is an excellent trip. There are some long days but what you get to see and hear about Uzbekistans history is fabulous. Uzbek people are very welcoming and helpful. I really enjoyed the food as well. The wine tasting was heaps of fun with our group as we all connected really well. Our guide Farhoud was very helpful, easy going and very knowledgeable about Uzbekistan and explained its history that was easy to understand.

Tour Operator

Intrepid Travel is a global adventure travel company, dedicated to providing sustainable, experience-rich travel opportunities. They’ve been the leader in ethical, small-group travel since 1989 - taking people around the world for more than 30 years. They’re the world’s largest travel B Corporation - dedicated to being the best travel company for the world. In 2002, they established The Intrepid Foundation so their travellers could make a lasting impact on the communities they had visited. Although Intrepid Travel absorbs all administrative costs of The Intrepid Foundation, they are separate legal entities, allowing The Intrepid Foundation to grow independently. Intrepid Travel is made up of a collection of tour operator brands and 28 destination management companies all united by one vision: To change the way we all see the world.

In Business Since 1989