On the Great Silk Road with Moynak and Nukus Extension
From the domes of Samarkand to the endless expanses of the ancient Aral Sea, Ouzbékistan reveals its hidden treasures.
Duration
14 days
From
€1,355/pers.
Ideal seasons
Mar, Apr, May, Sep, Oct, Nov
Style
Guided tour
Comfort
classique
Travelers
Couple, Solo, With friends, senior
The spirit of travel
Dive into the heart of Uzbekistan through a comprehensive journey along the Silk Road. This itinerary invites you to discover the great historic cities – Khiva, Bukhara and Samarkand – while exploring more secluded regions, between desert, ancient ruins and mountain landscapes.
From the Aral Sea and its striking expanses to the turquoise domes of the caravan cities, you alternate between cultural visits, encounters with artisans and immersion in local life. The bustling markets, the traditional quarters and moments of free time allow you to experience the country at your own pace.
The experience continues with a hiking trip in the Tian Shan mountains, offering a nature break overlooking Lake Charvak.
Accompanied by an attentive local team, you discover a country rich in history, traditions and contrasts, between heritage, culture and adventure.
The stages of your journey
Highlights
Day-by-day itinerary
Flight to Tashkent
Join the airport to complete check-in and boarding procedures. You will benefit from dedicated assistance to accompany you through these formalities before taking your flight to Tashkent, the capital of Ouzbékistan.
Welcome to Ouzbékistan!
Upon your arrival at Tashkent airport, your guide and driver welcome you and take you to the hotel. After breakfast, you set off to discover the capital of Ouzbékistan. In the old town, you visit Khasti Imam Square, the Barak-Khan Madrasah, the Kaffal Shoshiy Mausoleum and the Tilla Shaykh Mosque. You then head to the Tchor Sou Bazaar, before discovering the modern part of Tashkent and Amir Temur Square.
Moynak and Mizdakhkhan: In the Footsteps of the Aral Sea
After breakfast, head towards Moynak, a former port on the Aral Sea. Along the way, cross vast expanses once covered by water, bearing witness to the sea's retreat. Upon arrival, discover the ship cemetery of Moynak, where old abandoned vessels rest. Take some free time to observe these remnants and appreciate the transformations of this landscape.
On the way back, you make a stop at Mizdakhkhan. This ancient site of the Khorezm civilization, now turned into a cemetery, notably houses the mausoleum of Mazlumkhan Soulou and the ruins of the mausoleum of Khalfa Eradjape. According to local legend, the fall of the last brick of this mausoleum would announce the end of the world. You can also visit Gavour Kala, an ancient fortress.
You then continue on the road towards Nukus, capital of the Republic of Karakalpakstan, in Uzbekistan.
From Nukus to Khiva: Savitsky Museum and Toprak Kala Fortress
After breakfast, you visit in Nukus the Karakalpakstan Museum, founded by Igor Savitsky. Its collection of over 90,000 pieces includes notably works from the Russian avant-garde, visual arts from Uzbekistan, objects from ancient Khorezm and applied art pieces from Karakalpakstan. After lunch, you head towards Toprak Kala, former capital of the Khorezm kingdom. You discover the remains of this earthen fortress, where excavations revealed palaces decorated with murals and terracotta statuettes. You then continue towards Khiva, where you arrive in the late afternoon.
Khiva: Discovery of the Historic City of Itchan Kala
After breakfast, you spend the day discovering Khiva and its historic center, Itchan Kala, a UNESCO World Heritage site. You pass through Ota Darvosa and the central square of the old city, then discover the Mohammed Amin Khan Madrasah, the Kalta Minor minaret and the Kunya Ark palace.
The visit continues with the Pakhlavan Mahmoud complex, the Islam Khodja Madrasah and minaret, the Djouma mosque, Kosh Darvoza, the Tach Haouli palace and Allah Kouli-Khan square.
After a free dinner, you can stroll through the illuminated streets. Night in Khiva.
Latest Discoveries in Khiva
After breakfast, you continue your visit of Khiva with the Tach Khaouli palace, former residence of the khan, and its harem. You then have free time until 1 p.m. to stroll through the streets of the old town, discover local crafts or visit a site of your choice. Lunch is free at a local restaurant.
In the afternoon, you head to the station to take the 4 p.m. train to Boukhara. Dinner is a free picnic on board. Upon your arrival around 10 p.m., you are transferred to the hotel for the night.
Old Town Bukhara Exploration Day
You spend the day in the historic heart of Bukhara. You first discover the Ismail Samani mausoleum, then the Chashma Ayub mausoleum, also called "Job's Spring". The visit continues with the Bola Khaouz ensemble, its mosque and pool, before heading to the Ark citadel, the former residence of the emirs. You then explore the Poï-Kalian ensemble, which brings together the Kalon mosque, the Kalon minaret and the Miri Arab madrasah. You visit the Ulugbek and Abdulaziz Khan madrasahs, then the Lyabi-Khaouz site, whose pool is surrounded by madrasahs, a khanaka and former caravanserais.
Dinner and overnight in Bukhara.
Exploration of the surroundings of Bukhara and immersion in the city
After breakfast, you discover the surroundings of Bukhara starting with the Sitorai Mokhi Palace, the summer residence of the last emir, whose architecture blends European and Oriental influences. You then head to the sacred site of Bakhaouddin Naksband, a pilgrimage site dedicated to the founder of the Naqshbandi Sufi order. Back in town, you discover the Chor Minor Madrasah, recognizable by its four towers, then you stroll through the alleyways of the makhallas, the traditional quarters of Bukhara.
The afternoon is free. You can wander around the Liab-i-Khaouz basin, visit the merchant domes or discover local craftsmanship. Dinner and night in Bukhara.
From Bukhara to Samarkand: Vobkent, Guijdouvan and Rabat Malik
At 9 am, leave Bukhara to reach Vabkent, where you discover a minaret dating from the 12th century, a testament to the architectural heritage of the region.
You continue towards Guijdouvan, known for its pottery tradition, and visit a family workshop where this expertise is passed down from generation to generation.
Guijdouvan → Rabat Malik Caravanserai
The road then leads you to the ruins of the Rabat Malik caravanserai, a former stop on the Silk Road. Opposite the site, you discover a sardoba, a water reservoir intended for caravans crossing these arid regions.
Rabat Malik Caravanserai → Samarcande
You arrive in Samarkand in the late afternoon and check in to the hotel. Dinner is on your own and overnight stay.
Discovery of Samarkand, jewel of the Timurid Empire
After breakfast, you head out to discover Samarkand, the former capital of the Timurid empire. You start with the Registan Square, once the heart of city life. You also discover the Ulugh Beg Observatory, the Cher-Dor Madrasah, decorated with tiger representations, and the Tilla-Kari Madrasah, with its gilding and mosque. The visit continues at the Gour Emir Mausoleum, where Timur and members of his dynasty rest. You then head to the Bibi Khanum Mosque, then to the Siyab Bazaar, known for its traditional flatbreads and dried fruits. The bazaar is closed on Mondays. Finally, you visit the Afrosiab Museum, dedicated to Samarkand's ancient history and the remains of the Sogdian city. Dinner is on your own and overnight in Samarkand.
Excursion to Chakhrisabz, Tamerlane's Birthplace
After an early breakfast, leave Samarkand at 8 a.m. heading towards Chakhrisabz, the birthplace of Tamerlane. Aboard three small cars, cross a mountain pass located at 1,700 meters altitude, while enjoying panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes.
Upon your arrival in Chakhrisabz, begin your discovery with the ruins of the Ak Palace, Tamerlane's former residence, before heading to the Khazrati Imam architectural complex. Continue your visit with the Dorut Tyllawat ensemble, which brings together several mausoleums, then discover Dorus Saodat, the former burial place of members of Tamerlane's family.
End this exploration of Chakhrisabz's historical heritage with the Gumbazi Saidon mausoleum and the Kok Gumbaz mosque, recognizable by its blue dome.
After lunch in town, continue your journey towards Samarkand, where you arrive late in the afternoon.
Enjoy a free dinner at a local restaurant, before spending the night in Samarkand.
Latest Discoveries in Samarkand
After breakfast, head out to discover the Shakhi Zinda necropolis, a spiritual site that brings together more than twenty mausoleums built in different periods. Admire their decorations, which notably testify to the craftsmanship of artisans in the art of ceramics in the 14th and 15th centuries. Continue your visit with the mausoleum of Saint Daniel, a pilgrimage site, before heading to the Ulugh Beg Observatory, a testament to Samarkand's role in the development of medieval astronomy. Around 4 p.m., make your way to the train station to board the high-speed train to Tashkent, where you arrive at 7:15 p.m.
Hiking at Chimgan and panoramic view of Lake Charvak
After breakfast, you depart from Tashkent towards the Chimgan range, at the western edge of the Tian Shan mountains. Your hike begins with the ascent of the Melovoy pass, at 1,695 meters altitude. You then follow the ridge and cross the red cliff of Kyzyljar, at 1,845 meters altitude. After a picnic lunch in the open air, you continue walking along the ridges, with clear viewpoints over the surrounding landscapes. The route leads you to a summit offering a view of Charvak Lake.
Price per person
Indicative price per person, based on double room. Each trip is customized according to your preferences.
This trip can be tailored to your preferences
This itinerary provides an excellent foundation for discovery, but it can be fully customized. Our local advisors build each trip tailored to your budget, dates and preferences.
Not included
- Early check-in on the first day
- International flights
- All services not mentioned in the program
- Meals not mentioned as (B = breakfast, L = lunch, D = dinner)
- Your Personal Expenses
- The right to take photos in monuments (to be paid on site, at the entrance)
- Insurance
- Tips for drivers and guides
Included
- Airport and train station pickups
- The domestic flight Tashkent – Nukus
- Accommodation as indicated in the itinerary (on a shared double room basis)
- Meals (as mentioned in the program)
- Transport for transfers according to the program
- English-speaking accompaniment guide
- Guided tours and monument entries according to the program
- Samarcande – Tashkent Train Tickets
- Khiva-Bukhara train tickets
Practical Information
Registration is considered firm and final after payment of a deposit of 30% of the total price and acceptance of the specific terms of sale.
The balance must be paid no later than 45 days before the departure date.
See our specific terms of sale for full details.
In the event of cancellation by the traveller, the following fees apply:
- Plus de 60 jours avant le départ : 40 % du prix total (acompte retenu)
- Entre 60 et 30 jours avant le départ : 50 % du prix total
- Moins de 30 jours avant le départ : 100 % du prix total
We strongly recommend taking out cancellation insurance. See our specific terms of sale for full details.
The information below concerns travelers who are nationals of the European Economic Area (EEA), Switzerland and Canada traveling to Uzbekistan for a tourism stay. Entry rules may change, so we recommend verifying the information with the official authorities before your departure.
Passport
To enter Uzbekistan, your passport must be valid for a minimum of three months after your planned exit date from the country and must have at least two blank pages for immigration stamps.
The document must be in good condition (no damaged, torn or altered pages).
Tourism stay without a visa
Nationals of the European Economic Area, Switzerland and Canada benefit from a visa exemption for tourism stays in Uzbekistan.
To date, this exemption allows a stay of up to 30 days upon entry to the territory. Beyond this duration, a visa must be obtained in advance, in particular via the official online visa application portal of the Uzbek authorities.
The authorities may also request:
a departure ticket from the territory (return or onward flight),
proof of sufficient financial resources for the duration of your stay,
an accommodation booking or an invitation from a private individual or registered establishment.
Registration with local authorities
Any traveler staying in Uzbekistan is required to register with the local authorities within three business days of arrival.
In practice, this registration is generally completed automatically by the hotel or accommodation facility. In the case of staying with a private individual, the traveler must ensure that the host completes this procedure with the competent registration office.
keep the registration documents issued by each accommodation throughout your stay,
present these documents when crossing the border upon exit from the territory.
Health
No vaccination is mandatory to enter Uzbekistan for nationals of the EEA, Switzerland and Canada. However, health authorities recommend updating routine vaccinations (diphtheria, tetanus, poliomyelitis) and consulting with a doctor or international vaccination center before departure regarding any specific recommendations (hepatitis A, typhoid, etc.).
It is advisable to take out repatriation and medical assistance insurance before departure, as medical facilities may be limited in certain regions of the country.
Traveling with children
Minors must hold their own valid passport covering the duration of the stay.
In certain European countries, when a minor travels without one of their parents, an authorization to leave the territory may be required according to the regulations of the country of residence.
Other nationalities
Entry conditions may vary depending on nationality. Concerned travelers should inquire with the embassy or consulate of Uzbekistan in their country of residence.
To participate in our trips, it is strongly recommended to have emergency repatriation and foreign medical expenses coverage.
Your local agency encourages you to review the specific policy developed with our partner CHAPKA ASSURANCES and AXA ASSISTANCE.
To subscribe to insurance, learn about coverage and rates, follow the link below.
CAP EXPLORER: The comprehensive insurance solution designed for a worry-free trip!
Choose the plan that best suits you:
Explorer'Multirisque
Explorer'Annulation
Explorer'Assistance
Explorer'Complementary Credit Card Coverage
Specific to our trips, we strongly recommend subscribing to them.
If you choose to subscribe to one of these plans, the policy detailing all coverage and claim declaration procedures are available on the insurer's website.
Your local agency will be informed, but only the participant is responsible for complying with the claim declaration procedures. The participant must therefore keep this policy with them throughout their trip.
Chapka — Cap Explorer
Our insurance partnerTravel with peace of mind with our partner Chapka. Cancellation, repatriation, medical expenses, baggage… All the coverage for a worry-free trip.
Travel with peace of mind — I'll handle the insuranceFrequently asked questions
To stay in Uzbekistan, a passport valid for at least 3 months after entry is required. No visa is needed for short tourist visits. This destination has become much more accessible in recent years. Entry requirements vary depending on your nationality: check with the Uzbek consular authorities before booking your trip.
Go to the My Trips section to find all your projects.
You can send a message to your host directly from the Tea Lounge.
For a tailor-made quality trip, expect between 120 and 200 euros per day and per person, including accommodation, meals, internal transportation, and English-speaking guide. International flights (500-800 euros round trip) are additional. Uzbekistan is one of the most affordable destinations along the Silk Road.
Your documents are accessible in the Documents tab of your trip.
Absolutely. We adapt each itinerary to our travelers' profiles. For families, we prioritize relaxed pacing, family-friendly accommodations, engaging and educational activities, and comfortable private transfers. Our local English-speaking guides know how to capture children's attention with age-appropriate anecdotes.
It's simple. You exchange with our local team to define your wishes, budget and dates. You receive a detailed itinerary proposal within 48 hours. You refine every detail together until you have the perfect version. You confirm and set off with peace of mind. Your local agency remains available 7 days a week throughout your trip.
In case of emergency, contact your local agency immediately.
Payment is generally made in two installments.
Our agency is part of the Nomadays network, registered in France. You benefit from APST (Association Professionnelle de Solidarité du Tourisme) guarantee which covers 100% of your funds. Secure payment, repatriation insurance included, and English-speaking assistance 24/7 on site throughout your stay.
Let's talk about your adventure — Historic Golden Triangle
Expert in Uzbek Silk Road routes, based in Tachkent
Uzbekistan is more than just its monuments. It's also the conversations over tea, the markets, the villages, and the way locals welcome travelers.
— Nurridin
