Trekking and immersion in Transoxiana and discovery of the great Silk Road
Between the peaks of the Tian Shan and the madrasas of Samarkand, a journey that combines high-altitude trekking and the heritage of the Silk Road.
Duration
18 days
From
€1,840/pers.
Ideal seasons
Apr, May, Jun, Sep, Oct
Style
Guided tour
Comfort
rustique
Travelers
Solo, With friends, Couple
The spirit of travel
This trip to Ouzbékistan invites you to experience a complete adventure combining trekking, nature and cultural discovery, in the heart of Central Asia's varied landscapes.
From the Tian Shan mountains to the Chimgan ridges, from the isolated villages of Zaamin and Nourata to the expanses of the Kyzylkoum desert, you alternate between hiking, nights in bivouac or staying with local families and authentic encounters.
Throughout the journey, local immersion takes on its full meaning: sharing meals with families, observing daily life and discovering rural traditions. The trip continues along the mythical Silk Road, with the historic cities of Samarcande and Boukhara, witnesses to a rich heritage.
Between gentle adventure, contrasting landscapes and cultural heritage, this circuit offers an active and human approach to Ouzbékistan.
The stages of your journey
Highlights
Day-by-day itinerary
Arrival in Tashkent and discovery of the city!
Upon your arrival in Tashkent, capital of Ouzbékistan, you are welcomed at the airport by your local guide and your driver, who will accompany you during your first moments in the country.
After breakfast at the hotel, you set off to discover Tashkent panoramically, between historical heritage and contemporary atmosphere.
You begin with the old town, the spiritual and cultural heart of the capital:
the Khasti Imam square, the main religious center of the city,
the Barak-Khan madrasah,
the Kaffal Shashi mausoleum,
the Tilla Shaykh mosque.
This first immersion allows you to discover the historical roots of Tashkent and to gently begin your journey through Ouzbékistan, accompanied by your local guide.
You continue exploring the capital through several emblematic sites:
the Tchor Sou market, one of the oldest bazaars in Tashkent, where you immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere of local commerce,
the Independence Square (formerly Red Square), a vast symbolic esplanade that bears witness to the recent history of the country.
At the end of the day, dinner in the city, then overnight at the hotel.
Trekking in the Bildersay Valley and overnight camping
The trekking begins with climbing the red cliffs, located on the left side of the ski lift station.
After approximately one hour of walking, you reach a sunny meadow at 1,720 meters altitude, where a break allows you to enjoy the panorama of the mountains and surrounding valleys.
You then continue the hike by passing in front of a thousand-year-old tree, before reaching the col d'Urta Kumbell, located at 1,830 meters altitude.
A gentle descent takes you to the Marble River (1,540 meters), where you enjoy a lunch break in the heart of nature.
Urta Kumbel → Chimgan
After lunch, you begin the climb towards the Takhtajalou Pass, located at 2,000 meters altitude, with the possibility of encountering local shepherds along the way.
Following a well-marked trail, you continue your ascent towards the Chimgan Valley, in the direction of the Aksai River.
At the end of the day, dinner and overnight camping by the river, for an immersion in the heart of nature.
Ascent of the Grand Chimgan
Early in the morning, you set off to climb Grand Chimgan, which peaks at 3,309 meters in altitude, taking the northern slopes of the massif.
This approximately five-hour ascent gradually leads you up to 3,000 meters, where vegetation gives way to a mineral and rocky environment.
At the summit, you enjoy a wide panorama over the valleys and surrounding mountains, offering a beautiful view of the region's landscapes.
You then descend via the same route back to your camping area.
Dinner and night under the tent, in the heart of nature.
Ascent of Pisochniy
Chimgan → Pisochniy
After breakfast, you cross the village of Chimgan and begin the ascent near the children's resort, located at 1,570 meters altitude.
You climb to the Pisochniy pass (1,825 meters), before continuing with a steady progression towards the summit of Little Chimgan, which peaks at 2,118 meters.
Upon arrival, you enjoy a vast panorama over Big Chimgan, the Karjantou ridge, Lake Charvak, the Chimgan valley as well as the reliefs of western Kyrgyzstan.
You enjoy a lunch break, followed by a rest period to appreciate the calm of the place and recover before the rest of the day.
Pisochniy → Chimgan
You then descend towards the village of Chimgan, before reaching your camping area for the end of the day.
Last day of trekking and return to Tashkent
Chimgan → Kyzyljar
This morning, you join the Melovoy pass, located at 1,695 meters altitude, before progressing along the ridge following the undulating red cliff of Kyzyljar, which peaks at 1,845 meters.
You have lunch in a summer pasture, in the heart of spaces frequented by local shepherds, in a simple and authentic atmosphere.
You continue walking along the ridges to enjoy, throughout the day, wide panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes.
After this long trekking stage, you reach the final summit, which offers a view of Lake Charvak.
To Tachkent
After a short break, you begin your descent to the Chorvak Oromgohi hotel (950 meters altitude), where you meet up with your driver before heading back on the road towards Tachkent.
Tashkent - Zaamin
After breakfast at your hotel, you head out at 9am towards Zaamin province to discover a new region of Ouzbékistan.
Around noon, you arrive at the village of Pechogor. You settle in and share lunch with a local family, for a first moment of exchange at the heart of local life.
You then set off to discover Khoja Serob Spring (Khodjaï Serob), whose name means "the master of the springs". Considered a sacred site by local inhabitants, this site is associated with the imam who is believed to have helped spread Islam in the region.
The discovery continues towards the site of "Moukaddas Gor", the sacred cave. This place has yielded objects of historical interest, now being studied by archaeologists to better understand the region's past.
You continue hiking between the Dolanakuduk rocks and the hills of the Zaamin region, amid open and unspoilt landscapes.
Along the way, you pass through Kazakh villages, before returning to the guesthouse for the end of the day.
Zaamin Park
You are heading off to explore the Zaamin Nature Park, whose name means in Persian "agricultural land", in reference to the fertility of the soils and the richness of its vegetation.
The park is home to nearly 900 plant species, including several endemic varieties. The fauna is also varied, with many bird species, such as the ringed dove, the owl or the black stork.
With a bit of luck, you may also spot some emblematic animals of the region, such as the Asian ibex, the lynx or the white-footed bear.
Pechogor Landscape - Ouvoldara - Samarkand
You continue exploring the Zaamin region with a hike along the Ouvoldara River.
Along the way, you pass through Teshiktos, the "pierced stone", a natural rock formation characteristic of the area.
The walk then leads you to the source of the river.
During the trek, you enjoy a stop near a waterfall, a pleasant spot where it is possible to cool off depending on conditions.
You then have a picnic, before continuing on the road to Samarkand, one of the major historical stages of your journey in Ouzbékistan.
Beautiful Samarkand
This day is dedicated to the discovery ofSamarkand, former capital of Timur's empire, also known as Tamerlane.
A true crossroads of the Silk Roads, the city once connected the major commercial routes: towards Persia in the west, China in the east and India in the south.
Steeped in history, this legendary city has marked the major periods of Central Asia. Admired by Alexander the Great, conquered by Genghis Khan then elevated to capital status by Amir Temur, Samarkand continues today to bear witness to its rich heritage and its major role in the history of the region.
You continue your discovery of the capital of the Timurid empire with a visit to the Registan square. This vast square, once covered in sand, is surrounded by three emblematic madrasas from the period: those ofUlugh Beg Observatory, Cher-Dor Madrasah and Tilla-Kari, witnesses to Samarkand's cultural and architectural splendour.
The visit continues with the mausoleum of the Timurids, the burial place of Amir Temur, then with an immersion in the local atmosphere at Siyab market.
You also discover the Friday Mosque, the Bibi-Khanom Mosque, one of Samarkand's major monuments.
In the evening, dinner in town and overnight at the hotel.
A Day Rich in History
Samarcande → Eski Forish
Upon arrival, you settle with a local host, then set off for a stroll through the village, discovering its peaceful atmosphere and local daily life.
After breakfast at the hotel, you begin the day with a visit to the necropolis where descendants of Amir Timour, as well as military leaders and their wives were buried.
This site also houses the tomb of Kussam ibn Abbas, called the Living King, considered a descendant of the Prophet Mohammed.
You continue your visits with the discovery of a silk carpet factory, then the Ulugh Beg Observatory, an important astronomical observation center dating from the Middle Ages.
We have lunch before heading to the Eski Forish village.
Towards the Asraf village
Eski Forish → Achraf
You set off on a hike towards a historic vantage point, once used to monitor the plains of the Kyzylkoum Desert and anticipate potential attacks.
The trail crosses the village orchards, then steeper pastures, before giving way to progressively more mineral landscapes.
Along the way, you can observe local wildlife, including eagles, partridges and, more rarely, ibex.
You then reach the village of Achraf, where you settle into a guesthouse for the night.
After lunch, you enjoy free time to stroll through the village, chat with locals and observe daily life scenes, for a simple and authentic immersion in local life.
Nourata, a nature reserve
You are heading on a hiking trip towards the Nourata nature reserve, created to protect the fauna and flora characteristic of the region.
This walk allows you to discover preserved landscapes in the heart of an intact natural environment.
Along the way, you take a break to enjoy a picnic in the middle of nature, in the heart of the landscapes you traverse.
You then head to your accommodation with a local family by taking a pleasant trail.
Along the way and upon arrival, you have the opportunity to observe the daily activities of the inhabitants and to share some moments of local life.
On foot to Oukhoum
Achraf → Oukhoum
You are going on an easy hike departing from the village of Achraf in order to reach the neighboring mountain village of Oukhoum.
On site, you may be invited to share tea on an Uzbek tapchan, a convivial moment close to local traditions.
You arrive at the village around noon, where you have lunch.
During the afternoon, we enjoy a 7 km hike (round trip) to observe mouflons. It is also an opportunity to pass by houses and see people going about their daily activities.
The Kyzylkoum Desert and Lake Aydar
Oukhoum → Kyzylkoum
You head towards the Kyzylkoum Desert, located near Bukhara and covering nearly two-thirds of Ouzbékistan's territory.
This stage offers you the opportunity to discover the desert environment and experience the nomadic way of life of the Kazakhs.
You travel by vehicle to the shores of Lake Aydar. This vast body of water, whose level continues to rise, now extends over nearly 3,000 km², with approximately 250 km in length and a width varying between 8 and 15 km.
The region lends itself to outdoor activities: horseback riding or camel trekking, picnicking by the water, swimming weather permitting, or birdwatching on the shores, where you can spot notably pelicans, cormorants or other species.
You then reach the yurt camp on foot during a walk of approximately 6 km across the desert. Along the way, you can observe local small wildlife as well as herds of sheep and cattle.
Upon arrival, you settle into the camp, followed by a short ride on Bactrian camels.
You then have free time to enjoy the peace of the desert and admire the sunset over the surrounding landscapes.
The Silk Road
Kyzylkoum → Nourata
After breakfast, you head towards the town of Nourata. Located in the heart of an oasis, between the mountain range of the same name and the Kyzylkoum Desert, this small town offers a contrasting setting steeped in history.
Once there, you stop to discover its main sites, notably the sacred spring, the mosques surrounding the religious complex as well as the remains of the fortress attributed to Alexander the Great.
Discovery of Bukhara
This day is dedicated to discovering the old town of Bukhara. The historic centre brings together the majority of major sites, located in the old Chakhristan, and can be easily visited on foot.
You begin with the Ismail Samani Mausoleum (9th–10th century), the oldest monument preserved in the city and one of the most remarkable architectural ensembles in Ouzbékistan. This building also constitutes one of the first testimonies of Muslim architecture in Central Asia.
You continue your visits with the Chashma Ayub Mausoleum (12th–14th century), before discovering the Bola Khaouz ensemble, dating from the 18th century, then the Ark citadel.
Overlooking the Reghistan square, this former fortress, symbol of the Emirate of Bukhara, testifies to the power of the sovereigns and the history of the Manguit period.
Return to Tashkent
After breakfast at the hotel, you set out to discover the surroundings of Bukhara.
You make a detour to the sacred site of Bakhaouddin Nakshbandi (16th century), which houses the tomb of one of the most respected saints and a major figure in Sufism. This place of contemplation, particularly frequented by the faithful, holds an important place in the spiritual life of the region.
You continue with a visit to the "palace of the moon and stars", former residence of the emirs of Bukhara between the late 19th and early 20th centuries, until the arrival of the Bolsheviks.
This palace is distinguished by the combination of traditional local architectural elements and Russian influences, reflecting the developments of this period in history.
You continue your exploration with a visit to the Chor Minor Madrasa (early 19th century), a singular building in Bukhara, recognizable by its atypical architecture and its four characteristic towers.
After lunch in the city, you are transferred to the station to board the train heading to Tashkent.
Upon your arrival in Tashkent, you dine in a typical restaurant, before spending the night at the hotel.
Good flight and see you soon!
After lunch, you are transferred to the airport for your return flight, marking the end of your trip to Ouzbékistan.
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
- International flights and airport taxes
- Early checking on the first day
- Single room supplement
- Personal expenses
- The right to take photos at sites
- The tip for the driver and for the guide
Included
- Accommodation (double room) with breakfasts
- A Night Under the Yurt
- Accommodation with local residents
- Air-conditioned transport for transfers according to the itinerary
- English-speaking tour guide
- Guided tours and monument entries according to the program
- Meals as indicated in the itinerary
- One bottle of water each day per person
- The Bukhara-Tashkent train ticket
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 — Tashkent Region
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
