15 days tour

Uzbekistan To Kyrgyzstan – Architecture & Culture

Uzbekistan To Kyrgyzstan – Architecture & Culture

This tour includes:

Accommodation

12 nights’ accommodation

Meals

Meals as per the itinerary

Guide

Services of an English-speaking local guide

Others

Entrance fees as per the itinerary Train tickets Tashkent-Bukhara and Samarkand-Tashkent in business class Taste aromatic herbal teas in "Timur” Retro Saloon in Bukhara Visit ceramist Rakhimov’s workshop with traditional tea-tasting Visit Koni Ghil Village in Samarkand Visit to yurt production workshop in Kyzyl-Tuu Eagle hunting experience Felt workshop in Kochkor 1L of bottled water per day

Transport

Return airport transfers Private transportation Flight to Bishkek, Economy Ticket

Not included:

Others

International flights Visas Items of a personal nature Tipping Travel insurance Meals and beverages not specified above

Flights

International flights are not included

Optional

Other activities and services are not included

Insurance

Travel Insurance is not included

Start planning your experience

Itinerary of your trip Uzbekistan To Kyrgyzstan – Architecture & Culture

  • Day 1 Day 1: Arrival Tashkent
    • 12:00 am - 11:59 pm

      Day 1: Arrival Tashkent

      Airport Transfers
      Welcome to Uzbekistan! Upon arrival at Tashkent airport, you will be met and transferred to your hotel. Uzbekistan is the proud home to a spellbinding infusion of architecture and ancient cities, all deeply intertwined with the bloody, fascinating history of the Silk Road.

      Tashkent City Tour
      Leave your luggage at your hotel and set off on your city tour. Visit the wonderful complex Khast Imam, located in the old part of the city. Continuing on, you will also visit Kukeldash Madrasah, the largest madrasah and one of the most famous historical monuments of Tashkent. You will also have the opportunity to explore a local bazaar, Chorsu. This bazaar is one of the largest and most popular in the capital. Covered by seven domes tiled with coloured ceramic designs, mingle amongst the locals as they bargain and barter amongst themselves. Local farmers come from far and wide to sell products of their own production. Let your senses take over as you inhale the aromas of different Eastern spices, vegetables, and fruits. Enjoy a BBQ lunch here, hot off the open flames as you sit amongst the locals.

      Ceramics Master Class
      Enjoy meeting a ceramist from Rishtan. Become acquainted with the full cycle of ceramic production – from the preparation of the clay to the manufacture of finished products and take part in our masterclass and get your hands dirty, as you learn from the locals.

      Evening Walking Tour
      This evening, enjoy a walking city tour as you visit Amir Temur Square, Sayilgoh Street, Romanov’s Palace (outside), Navoi Theatre Square, and Independence Square. Return to your hotel.

      Meals
      Lunch, Dinner

      Accommodation
      Overnight Hotel Manor or similar

      Services
      Airport Transfers
      Tashkent City Tour with private vehicle and English-speaking guide
      Ceramics master class
      Evening walking tour with an English-speaking guide

  • Day 2 Day 2: Tashkent – Khiva Via Urgench
    • 12:00 am - 11:59 pm

      Day 2: Tashkent – Khiva Via Urgench

      Start your day with a morning flight from Tashkent to Urgench. You’ll be transferred to Khiva upon arrival for a comprehensive city tour. Explore the rich history and architecture of this ancient city

      Khiva City Tour
      Begin with Ata Darvaza, one of the four gates of Ichan Kala, dating back to 1842. You’ll then visit Madrasah Allakuli Khan, built in the mid-19th century, and known for its intricate decoration. Continue to Madrasah Muhammad Amin Khan, constructed between 1851 to 1854 by the order of Khiva’s ruler. Then Kalta Minar, which translates to “short,” was originally intended to be the tallest minaret in the East but remains incomplete. The tour also includes a visit to Kunya Ark, the “Old Fortress,” which served as the residence and inner citadel for Khiva’s rulers, founded in the 17th century.

      Explore Muhammad Rahimkhan Madrasah, erected in 1876 by Seyid Muhammad-Rahim II, also known as the poet Feruzshah. The 16th-century Juma Mosque, with its 213 elmwood pillars spanning different epochs, offers a glimpse into the city’s religious heritage. Tosh Hovli Palace, meaning “stone courtyard,” was built between 1830-1838 to replace Kunya Ark. The Islam Khodja Minaret and Madrasah ensemble, dating to the early 20th century, was funded by Prime Minister Isfandiar Khan.

      Finally, visit the Pakhlavan Makhmud Mausoleum, the final resting place of a renowned 14th-century poet and wrestler.

      After the city tour, you will stay overnight at your hotel in Khiva.

      Meals include a breakfast box, lunch at a local restaurant, and dinner on the terrace of another local restaurant.

      Meals
      Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

      Accommodation
      Overnight in Khiva-Orient Star / Feruzkhan / Muso Tora / New Star or similar

      Services
      Airport transfer
      Domestic flight to Urgench
      Private vehicle with English-speaking guide

      Travel time and distance (Approximate)
      Flight Tashkent to Urgench: 1 hour, 30 minutes
      Urgench airport to Khiva city: 35 km | 51 minutes

  • Day 3 Day 3: Khiva To Bukhara
    • 12:00 am - 11:59 pm

      Day 3: Khiva To Bukhara

      After breakfast, embark on a journey from Khiva to Bukhara by road, or you may choose to fly. The drive takes you through the vast expanse of the Kyzylkum Desert, offering a unique glimpse of the arid landscapes that characterise this region. Upon arrival in Bukhara, you will transfer to your hotel for check-in. Meals include breakfast at the hotel, lunch at a local restaurant, and dinner at the hotel.

      Meals
      Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

      Accommodation
      Overnight in Paradise Plaza / Malika / Minorai Kalon / Omar Khayyam or similar

      Services
      Private vehicle and English-speaking guide

      Travel time and distance (Approximate)
      Khiva to Bukhara: 470 km | 8-9 hours

  • Day 4 Day 4: Bukhara
    • 12:00 am - 11:59 pm

      Day 4: Bukhara

      Full-Day Bukhara City Tour
      After breakfast, you’ll set off for a full-day city tour, starting at the Labi Hauz complex, a beautiful spot featuring the Kukeldash Madrasah, Khanaka, and Nodir Divan-Begi, all centred around a picturesque reservoir that’s the heart of old Bukhara. From there, you’ll visit the Jewish Synagogue, a place of worship that’s been in use since the 16th century and is protected by the government.

      Next, you’ll explore the Magoki Attori Mosque, which sits on the site of an ancient pre-Islamic temple. Stroll through the Trade Domes, where you can imagine the bustling activity of medieval merchants who once traded goods from across Central Asia and beyond. Discover the Bozori Kord Khammam, a historic sauna dating back to the 14th century, and the Abdullakhan Tim, a grand shopping passage built in the 16th century.

      Your journey continues to the Ulugbeg Madrasah, the only surviving Timurid-era building in Bukhara, paired with the Abdulazizkhan Madrasah as part of a stunning architectural ensemble. You’ll also visit the Poi Kalyan complex, which includes the towering Kalyan Minaret, the Kalyan Mosque, and the Miri Arab Madrasah.

      Explore the Ark Fortress, the oldest surviving structure in Bukhara, and the Bolo Hauz Mosque, which dates back to 1712. The Chashmai Ayub, linked to the biblical figure Job-Ayub, and the Ismail Samani Mausoleum, Central Asia’s oldest surviving Islamic tomb, provide further historical context.

      Finish your tour at Chor Minor, a unique building with four minarets, constructed in 1807. Finally, Take a relaxing break at Retro Saloon Timur to enjoy some delicious herbal teas.

      In the evening, you’ll have the chance to join in on preparing plov, a traditional Uzbek dish made with long-grain rice, tender lamb, onions, and carrots. It’s a hands-on experience where you’ll learn the secrets behind this beloved dish, also known as “pilaf” or “palov.”

      Meals
      Breakfast, Lunch at a local restaurant, Dinner at a local family’s home

      Accommodation
      Overnight in Paradise Plaza / Malika / Minorai Kalon / Omar Khayyam or similar

      Services
      Private vehicle and English-speaking guide

  • Day 5 Day 5: Bukhara – Gijduvan – Samarkand
    • 12:00 am - 11:59 pm

      Day 5: Bukhara – Gijduvan – Samarkand

      Vabkent Minaret
      After breakfast, depart for Samarkand, with a stop in Gijduvan. Your journey begins with a drive to Gijduvan, passing through Vabkent. Here, you’ll visit the Vabkent Minaret, a stunning example of local architecture dating back to 1196-1197. The minaret features a Kufic inscription on its lower decorative belt.

      Gijduvan
      Continue your drive to Gijduvan, a small town located 46 km northeast of Bukhara. In Gijduvan, you’ll find remnants of historical architecture, including the Ulugbek Madrasah from the 15th century, although only the front part remains.

      You will also explore the Abd-al-Khalyk Gijduvani Mazar and learn about Gijduvan’s renowned ceramics and embroidery. The Narzullaev family, famous for their traditional silk embroidery on cotton fabric, continues this local craft.

      Ceramic workshop and the Museum
      Visit the ceramic workshop and the Museum of Ceramics established by the Narzullaev family to see some of the finest examples of local craftsmanship.

      Rabat Malika Caravan Saray
      Finally, you’ll head to the ruins of Rabat Malika Caravan Saray, a former fortress for travellers on the Great Silk Road.

      Meals
      Breakfast, Lunch at a local restaurant, and Dinner at another local restaurant

      Accommodation
      Overnight in Arka Boutique / Rabat Boutique / Wellfort or similar

      Services
      Private vehicle and English-speaking guide

      Travel time and distance (Approximate)
      Bukhara to Gijduvan: 47 km | 1 hour
      Gijduvan to Samarkland: 230 km | 4 hours

  • Day 6 Day 6: Samarkland
    • 12:00 am - 11:59 pm

      Day 6: Samarkland

      Explore the main attractions in Samarkand, starting with the Registan, a stunning plaza surrounded by three ornate, majolica-covered madrassas dating back to the 15th and 17th centuries. At Sherdor Madrassah, enjoy a mini-concert and a lecture about traditional national musical instruments.

      Next, visit Gur Emir, the grand tomb of Timur (Tamerlane), the founder of the Timurid Empire. Continue your tour with the Shakhi Zinda necropolis, located in the northeastern part of Samarkand, and the Bibi-Khanym Mosque, one of the most significant monuments in the city.

      In the Koni Ghil Village, explore a handicraft centre where you’ll learn about the ancient techniques of paper production, pottery, carpentry, and oil making, all following traditional methods. Finish your day with visits to the Afrosiyob Museum and Ulugbek Observatory to gain further insights into the region’s history and astronomical achievements.

      Meals
      Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

      Accommodation
      Overnight in Arka Boutique / Rabat Boutique / Wellfort or similar

      Services
      Private vehicle and English-speaking guide

      Travel time and distance (Approximate)
      Tours and sightseeing: 35 km | 4 hours duration

  • Day 7 Day 7: Samarkland – Tashkent - Bishkek
    • 12:00 am - 11:59 pm

      Day 7: Samarkland – Tashkent - Bishkek

      This morning, you will transfer to the train station to catch the Afrosiyob train (06:11-08:21) to Tashkent.

      Akbar Rahimov’s workshop
      Upon arrival, visit Akbar Rahimov’s workshop, where this master ceramist, from a long line of potters, revitalises ancient styles with modern designs. Enjoy a tea break with traditional oriental sweets.

      In the evening, transfer to the airport for your flight to Bishkek. On arrival, you will be met at the airport and transferred to your hotel, located 40 km away, which takes about an hour. Spend the rest of the evening relaxing at the hotel, followed by dinner at a local restaurant.

      Meals
      Breakfast, Dinner

      Accommodation
      Overnight at Plaza Hotel or similar

      Services
      Train transfer
      Private vehicle and English-speaking guide
      Airport transfer
      Economy flight from Tashkent to Bishkek

      Travel time and distance (Approximate)
      Train ride: 2 hours
      Flight from Tashkent to Bishkek: 1.5 hours

  • Day 8 Day 8: Bishkek To Kemin Valley
    • 12:00 am - 11:59 pm

      Day 8: Bishkek To Kemin Valley

      Begin your day with breakfast before embarking on a city tour of Bishkek, including a visit to the vibrant Osh Bazaar. Enjoy lunch in Bishkek before transferring to the scenic Kemin Valley. En route, you’ll stop to explore the historic Burana Tower, remnants of an ancient city dating back to the 11th century.

      Upon arrival in Kemin, settle into your accommodation at a cosy guesthouse. If time allows, take a hike to the panorama point (approximately 2 hours one way, moderate difficulty) for a stunning view of the Chon-Kemin Valley. Horse riding is also available as an optional activity. Conclude the day with dinner and an overnight stay at the guesthouse

      Meals
      Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

      Accommodation
      Kemin guest house or similar

      Services
      Private vehicle and English-speaking guide

      Travel time and distance (Approximate)
      Bishkek to Kemin Valley: 180 km | 3-4 hours

  • Day 9 Day 9: Kemin Valley – Tepke
    • 12:00 am - 11:59 pm

      Day 9: Kemin Valley – Tepke

      Travel along the northern shore of Issyk-Kul Lake. Lunch will be provided en route. Along the way, you’ll visit the Museum of Nomad’s Civilizations and an open-air museum featuring ancient petroglyphs. You can also opt for a one-hour boat excursion on Issyk-Kul Lake.

      Transfer to Karakol
      After lunch, continue the journey. Upon arrival in Karakol, enjoy a tour of a local farm, focusing on the horse breeding section, followed by a relaxing walk around the area. Dinner and overnight stay will be at the farmhouse.

      Meals
      Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

      Accommodation
      Green Yard Hotel or similar

      Services
      Private vehicle and English-speaking guide

      Travel time and distance (Approximate)
      Kemin Valley – Tepke: 250 km | 4-5 hours

  • Day 10 Day 10: Tepke To Karakol
    • 12:00 am - 11:59 pm

      Day 10: Tepke To Karakol

      Start your day with an early morning trip to Karakol, where you’ll visit the bustling animal market. Afterwards, treat yourself to a traditional Dungan breakfast at a local ash-lyanfu eatery. The day continues with a city tour of Karakol, which includes a 1.5-hour stroll through the streets, taking in the Russian Orthodox Church, the Dungan-style Muslim Mosque, and the Museum of Prjevalski, honouring the famous traveller and Central Asia explorer. Enjoy a delightful lunch at a local restaurant before spending the evening immersed in the local culture with a traditional dinner hosted by a local family. Conclude your day with an overnight stay at a hotel in Karakol.

      Meals
      Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

      Accommodation
      Green Yard Hotel or similar

      Services
      Private vehicle and English-speaking guide

      Travel time and distance (Approximate)
      Tepke to Karakol: 60 km | 1 hour

  • Day 11 Day 11: Karakol – Jetty Oguz – Svetlaya Polyana - Tamga
    • 12:00 am - 11:59 pm

      Day 11: Karakol – Jetty Oguz – Svetlaya Polyana - Tamga

      After breakfast, transfer to Jety-Oguz Gorge, which will take around 2 hours. From here, you have the option to start a moderate-level hike to Svetlaya Polyana Gorge, lasting approximately 3-4 hours. Enjoy a packed lunch at the top of a small pass. After the hike, meet the car and transfer to the southern shore of Issyk-Kul Lake. The day concludes with dinner and accommodation in a yurt camp in Tamga

      Meals
      Breakfast box, Lunch box

      Accommodation
      Issyk-Kul – Yurt camp

      Services
      Private vehicle and English-speaking guide

      Travel time and distance (Approximate)
      Karakol – Jetty Oguz – Svetlaya Polyana – Tamga: 110 km | 4-5 hours

  • Day 12 Day 12: Tamga – Kochkor
    • 12:00 am - 11:59 pm

      Day 12: Tamga – Kochkor

      Start the day with breakfast before continuing your journey along the southern shore. En route, you’ll visit the village of Kyzyl-Tuu to observe traditional yurt production, witness an eagle hunting demonstration, and explore the striking “Fairy Tale” Canyon. Upon arrival in Kochkor, you’ll visit a felt workshop run by the local women’s community, “Altyn Kol,” where they craft beautiful felt products. The day concludes with dinner and an overnight stay at a hotel in Kochkor.

      Meals
      Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

      Accommodation
      Overnight Nomad Lodge Hotel

      Services
      Private vehicle and English-speaking guide

      Travel time and distance (Approximate)
      Tamga to Kochkor: 200 km | 4-5 hours

  • Day 13 Day 13: Kochkor To Son-Kul
    • 12:00 am - 11:59 pm

      Day 13: Kochkor To Son-Kul

      After breakfast, depart for Son-Kul Lake, located at an altitude of 3,016 metres above sea level, renowned for its picturesque pastures. During the summer, local families bring their cattle here to graze. There are two options for the day:

      Option 1: Early morning transfer to Kilemche, the starting point of a soft trek to Son-Kul Lake (approximately 4-5 hours of trekking).

      Option 2: For those who prefer travelling by car, transfer to Son-Kul Lake in the morning, followed by an afternoon hike around the lake.

      End the day with dinner and an overnight stay in a traditional yurt camp.

      Meals
      Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

      Accommodation
      Overnight in Son-Kul – Yurt camp

      Services
      Private vehicle and English-speaking guide

      Travel time and distance (Approximate)
      Kochkor to Son-Kul: 120 km | 2-3 hours

  • Day 14 Day 14: Son-Kul To Bishkek
    • 12:00 am - 11:59 pm

      Day 14: Son-Kul To Bishkek

      After breakfast, transfer to Bishkek with a lunch stop in Kochkor. Upon arrival in Bishkek, take some time to rest and refresh before dinner. Enjoy a farewell dinner at a local restaurant, with the option to include a Kyrgyz folklore program during the meal. Overnight accommodation will be provided at a hotel in Bishkek.

      Meals
      Breakfast, Lunch Dinner

      Accommodation
      Overnight in Plaza Hotel or similar

      Services
      Private vehicle and English-speaking guide

      Travel time and distance (Approximate)
      Son-Kul to Bishkek: 320 km | 6-7 hours

  • Day 15 Day 15: Bishkek - Departure
    • 12:00 am - 11:59 pm

      Day 15: Bishkek - Departure

      After breakfast, you have free time until your transfer to the airport for your onward flight.

      Meals
      Breakfast

      Services
      Airport transfer

+12
Experience Style

Experience Style

Mixed

There will be challenging activities such as hiking, biking, canyoning and trekking, but you’re also going to have other means of transportation and relaxed moments to just chill.

Accomodation level

Accomodation level

Medium

This accommodation includes essential services like a hot shower, electricity, and a nice and comfy bed.

Experience Type

Experience Type

Small Group

You’ll be accompanied by a small group of travelers just like you.

Physical Rating

Physical Rating

Average

There are several physical activities that last from 2 to 6 hours in easy terrains, low altitude flats, or water experiences. Please ask if you’re not sure this applies to you.

Age range

Age range

Min: 18 / Max: 99

Age range allowed for this experience.

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