Discover the Heart of the Silk Road: Uzbekistan & Turkmenistan (SR-10)

Welcome to Uzbekistan! Upon your arrival in Tashkent, you’ll be warmly welcomed and transferred to your hotel. Take some time to settle in, relax, and get acquainted with the vibrant capital city as you prepare for the remarkable journey ahead. Overnight in Tashkent. (Dinner)

Begin your day with a guided exploration of Tashkent, Uzbekistan’s lively and culturally rich capital. Start in the historic Old Town, where you’ll visit the Khast-Imam Complex, home to the venerated Osman Quran. Move on to Amir Timur Square, a prominent landmark honoring the famed ruler, and the Courage Monument, commemorating Tashkent’s enduring spirit. Continue to the elegant Opera and Ballet Theater and the expansive Independence Square, showcasing Uzbekistan’s journey to sovereignty. Wrap up your tour at the bustling Chorsu Bazaar, a vibrant marketplace brimming with local produce, traditional crafts, and the essence of Uzbek culture. Overnight in Tashkent. (Breakfast, Dinner)

After enjoying breakfast at the hotel, you’ll transfer to the train station for a high-speed “Afrosiab” train journey from Tashkent to Samarkand, departing at 08:30 and arriving at 10:40. Upon reaching Samarkand, you’ll check into your hotel and prepare for a day filled with remarkable discoveries.

Begin your exploration at the iconic Registan Square, famed for its trio of majestic madrassahs -Sherdor, Ulugbek, and Tillya Qory. Continue to the impressive Bibi-Khanum Mosque and the Gur-Emir Mausoleum, the resting place of Timur. Visit Ulugbek’s Observatory, a symbol of the region’s rich scientific history, and the Shakhi-Zinda Necropolis, an awe-inspiring collection of intricately decorated mausoleums. Conclude your day at the vibrant Siab Bazaar, where the lively atmosphere and local flavors offer an authentic glimpse into Uzbek culture. Overnight in Samarkand. (Breakfast, Dinner)

After breakfast, we’ll transfer you to the train station for your journey to Bukhara aboard the high-speed "Afrosiab" train, which takes just an hour and a half. Upon arrival, you’ll be taken to your hotel to check in and unwind before setting out to explore this historic city.

Begin your guided tour at the Lyabi-Khauz complex, a serene area centered around the oldest pool in Central Asia and framed by exquisite medieval structures like the Nadira Divan-begi madrasah and Khanaka, celebrated for their intricate mosaic designs. Next, visit the Kukeldash madrasah, the largest of its kind in Bukhara. Continue to the iconic Poi-Kalyan Complex, home to the towering Kalyan Minaret, the grand Kalyan Mosque, and the still-active Miri-Arab madrasah, all showcasing the city’s remarkable blend of architectural and spiritual traditions. After an enriching day, enjoy a relaxing evening with an overnight stay in Bukhara. (Breakfast, Dinner)

After breakfast, we’ll gather in the hotel lobby to embark on another day of uncovering Bukhara’s rich history. Our journey begins at the Samanids Mausoleum, a masterpiece of early Islamic architecture renowned for its intricate brick patterns and as the final resting place of the influential Samanid dynasty. Next, we’ll visit the Ark Citadel, a fortress that once served as the residence of Bukhara’s emirs. As we explore this historic stronghold, you’ll enjoy panoramic views of the city and gain insights into its centuries-old role as a center of governance and culture. We’ll then marvel at the unique Chor-Minor, a charming structure distinguished by its four intricately adorned minarets, each with a distinct design. Our day concludes with a visit to the elegant Sitorai-Mohi-Khosa Palace, the emirs' summer retreat. Surrounded by lush gardens, the palace showcases a captivating blend of traditional Bukhara and European architectural influences. After a day rich with exploration, we’ll return to the hotel for an overnight stay in Bukhara. (Breakfast, Dinner)

Begin your day with free time to soak in the charm of Bukhara at your leisure. Take a final stroll through its atmospheric streets, revisit your favorite landmarks, or simply unwind in one of its tranquil courtyards before we set off for Mary in Turkmenistan. Upon arrival in Mary, embark on an introductory tour of this intriguing city. Highlights include the History Museum of the Mary Region, which offers insights into the area's rich past, the elegant Russian Orthodox Church, and the vibrant local bazaar, where you can experience the daily life and culture of the region. We’ll also visit the striking Gurbanguly Haji Mosque, a modern masterpiece of Turkmen architecture. After the tour, transfer to your hotel to settle in and relax. Overnight in Mary. (Breakfast, Dinner)

Driving distance: 380 km / 238 ml.

After breakfast, we’ll set off to explore the Ancient City of Merv, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a key hub of the historic Silk Road. This vast historical park is home to an array of remarkable landmarks, including the majestic Sultan Sanjar Mausoleum, the monumental Large and Small Gyz Gala, Erk Gala, Gyaur Gala, the Keshk Fortresses, and the Muhammed ibn Zaid Mausoleum. Each site offers a glimpse into the city’s illustrious past and its significance as a cultural and trade center. Following our deep dive into Merv’s rich history, we’ll return to Mary for a short flight (approximately 40 minutes) to Ashgabat, Turkmenistan's vibrant and modern capital. Upon arrival, we’ll transfer to your hotel, where you can unwind and settle in for the evening. Overnight in Ashgabat. (Breakfast, Dinner)

Driving distance: 65 km / 41 ml.

After breakfast, embark on a full-day city tour of Ashgabat to uncover its most iconic landmarks and unique character. The journey begins at the National Museum, where you’ll delve into Turkmenistan’s rich cultural and historical heritage. Next, visit Independence Park, adorned with grand monuments that celebrate the nation’s sovereignty, and marvel at the Rukhnama Monument and the impressive Neutrality Arch. Continue with a scenic ride on the Ferris Wheel, offering stunning panoramic views of the city, and stop by the Magtymguly Monument, dedicated to the renowned Turkmen poet. A highlight of the day will be a visit to the ancient ruins of Nissa, a UNESCO World Heritage Site showcasing remarkable Parthian architecture. Conclude the day at the magnificent Turkmenbashi Mosque-Mausoleum, an extraordinary blend of spiritual significance and architectural splendor. After an enriching day of exploration, return to the hotel for an overnight stay. Overnight in Ashgabat. (Breakfast, Dinner)

After breakfast, continue exploring Ashgabat, a city where modern innovation meets deep-rooted traditions. Start the day with a visit to the renowned Ahalteke horse stables to learn about Turkmenistan’s prized horses, celebrated for their beauty and strength. Next, marvel at the stunning Ertogrul Ghazi Mosque, a striking example of Islamic architecture. Stop by the historic Lenin Monument and dive into the lively atmosphere of the Russian Bazaar, a vibrant hub of local life. Visit the poignant Earthquake Monument, a tribute to the resilience of the Turkmen people, and the Soviet War Memorial Complex, commemorating significant moments in the nation’s history. Wrap up your day with a tour of the Carpet Museum, home to exquisite examples of Turkmen craftsmanship, and end with a visit to the Wedding Palace viewpoint, where you can enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the city. In the evening, transfer to the airport for a short flight (approximately 50 minutes) to Dashoguz. Upon arrival, you’ll be met and taken to your hotel for an overnight stay. Overnight in Dashoguz. (Breakfast, Dinner)

Optional - Darvaza Gas Crater. For those seeking an extra thrill, an optional adventure to the Darvaza Gas Crater, also known as the "Door to Hell," is available. You can choose between a day trip or an overnight stay at a traditional yurt camp near the crater. The journey to the crater takes you on a 275 km (172 miles) drive, with an additional 300 km (188 miles) to Dashoguz. If you decide to stay overnight, you’ll spend the night in a yurt camp, offering a unique opportunity to experience the vast desert and its eerie, surreal landscape. At night, you’ll witness the crater’s fiery glow-an unforgettable sight under the starry desert sky. This excursion provides an incredible chance to immerse yourself in the otherworldly beauty and mystique of Turkmenistan’s desert environment.

In the morning, we’ll begin our journey to Kunya Urgench, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most significant historical locations in Turkmenistan. Here, we’ll explore the fascinating historical park, which features the towering Kutlug Timur Minaret, the graceful Mausoleum of Turabek Khanum, the Mausoleum of Tekesh, the Mausoleum of Il Arslan, and the Caravansaray Gateway, among other remarkable landmarks. Afterward, we’ll head to Dashoguz for a leisurely lunch and explore the city, including the History Museum of Dashoguz Region, the Central Mosque, and the bustling local bazaar. In the afternoon, we’ll cross the border into Uzbekistan and make our way to Khiva, a beautifully preserved Silk Road city brimming with history and charm. Upon arrival, we’ll check in to our hotel and enjoy an overnight stay. Overnight in Khiva. (Breakfast, Dinner)

Driving distance: 260 km / 163 ml.

Meet your guide in the hotel lobby for a fascinating sightseeing tour of Khiva, where we’ll delve into the treasures of Ichan Kala, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Our tour begins at the Kalta-Minor Minaret, an impressive yet unfinished structure that reaches 26 meters in height with a base diameter of 16 meters. It was originally envisioned as the tallest minaret in Central Asia. Next, we’ll visit Kunya-Ark, the first palace of Khiva’s khans, and the Pahlovan Mahmud Mausoleum, a stunning example of Islamic architecture. We’ll then explore the Islam Khodja Madrassah and Minaret, completed in 1908, followed by the unique Juma Mosque, famous for its flat roof supported by 218 intricately carved wooden columns, known for their exceptional acoustics. This tour will offer you a deep appreciation of Khiva’s rich cultural and architectural heritage. Overnight in Khiva. (Breakfast, Dinner)

The tour concludes with a transfer to the airport for your flight back home, bringing to a close your unforgettable journey through the captivating cities and landscapes of Central Asia. Safe travels, and we look forward to welcoming you on your next adventure! (Breakfast)

Accommodation Options

Here is a selection of example hotels used during the tour. Comparable accommodations can be provided based on hotel availability.

City	Comfort Package - Hotels 3*	Premium Package - Hotels 4*	Nights
Tashkent	Gabrielle International 3* / Milan 3*	City Palace 4* / Hampton by Hilton 4*	2
Samarkand	City Samarkand 3* / Malika Prime 3*	Dilimah 4* / Emir Han 4* / Alexandr 4*	1
Bukhara	Fatima 3* / Volida 3* / Kavsar 3*	Sahid Zarafshon 4*	2
Mary	Margush 4*	Margush 4*	1
Ashgabat	Ak Altyn 3*	Sport 4*	2
Dashoguz	Dashoguz 4*	Dashoguz 4*	1
Khiva	Malika Khiva 3* / Khorezm 3* / Kheivak 3* / Arkanchi 3*	Asia Khiva 4* / Bek Khiva 4*	2