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

Welcome to Uzbekistan! Upon arrival in Tashkent, you’ll be warmly greeted and transferred to your hotel. Take some time to settle in and relax as you prepare for the exciting journey ahead. Overnight in Tashkent. (Dinner)

Meet your guide in the hotel lobby to begin your sightseeing tour of Tashkent, Uzbekistan’s vibrant capital. Explore the historic Old Town and the Khast-Imam architectural complex, home to the revered Osman Quran. Continue to key landmarks such as Amir Timur Square, the Courage Monument, the Opera and Ballet Theater, and Independence Square, each offering a unique glimpse into the city’s rich history and culture. Conclude your tour with a visit to the lively Chorsu Bazaar, where you can experience the vibrant energy of local markets and admire the artistry of Uzbekistan’s talented craftsmen. Overnight in Tashkent. (Breakfast, Dinner)

After breakfast at the hotel, you'll transfer to the train station for your journey on the high-speed "Afrosiab" train from Tashkent to Samarkand, departing at 08:30 and arriving at 10:40. Upon arrival in Samarkand, we'll take you to your hotel to check in and prepare for an exciting day of exploration.

Your tour of Samarkand begins at the legendary Registan Square, renowned for its three magnificent madrassahs-Sherdor, Ulugbek, and Tillya Qory. You'll continue to the grand Bibi-Khanum Mosque, the historic Gur-Emir Mausoleum, and Ulugbek's observatory, a testament to the region's scientific heritage. The journey also includes a visit to the Shakhi-Zinda Necropolis, an extraordinary complex of mausoleums, and the bustling Siab Bazaar, where the vibrancy of local life and culture comes alive. Overnight in Samarkand. (Breakfast, Dinner)

After breakfast at the hotel, we’ll transfer you to the train station for your journey to Bukhara on the high-speed "Afrosiab" train, a trip lasting just an hour and a half. Upon arrival, you’ll be transferred to your hotel to check in and relax before beginning your exploration of this ancient city.

Your guided tour of Bukhara starts with the Lyabi-Khauz complex, home to the oldest pool in Central Asia, surrounded by remarkable medieval structures, including the Nadira Divan-begi madrasah and Khanaka, both known for their stunning mosaic facades. Next, visit the Kukeldash madrasah, the largest in Bukhara. Later, explore the magnificent Poi-Kalyan Complex, which features the iconic Kalyan Minaret, the Kalyan Friday Mosque, and the active Miri-Arab madrasah, offering a rich insight into the architectural and spiritual heritage of this Silk Road gem. Conclude your day with an overnight stay in Bukhara. (Breakfast, Dinner)

After breakfast, we’ll meet in the hotel lobby to continue our exploration of Bukhara’s fascinating history. We’ll begin by visiting the Samanids Mausoleum, one of the city’s oldest and most revered landmarks, known for its intricate brickwork and its role as the resting place of the Samanid dynasty. Next, we’ll head to the Ark Citadel, the historic residence of Bukhara’s emirs, where we’ll enjoy stunning views over the city and learn about its role as the political and cultural heart of the region for centuries. We’ll then visit the Chor-Minor, a distinctive structure with four minarets, each uniquely decorated. To conclude our day, we’ll explore the serene Sitorai-Mohi-Khosa Palace, the summer retreat of Bukhara’s emirs, surrounded by beautiful gardens and showcasing a fascinating mix of local and European architectural styles. After a day full of discovery, we’ll return to the hotel for an overnight stay in Bukhara. (Breakfast, Dinner)

Start your day with some free time to explore the captivating city of Bukhara at your own pace. Wander through its charming streets, revisit your favourite spots, or relax in one of its peaceful courtyards before we depart for Mary in Turkmenistan. Once we arrive in Mary, we’ll enjoy an introductory tour, which includes visits to the History Museum of the Mary Region, the beautiful Russian Orthodox Church, and the bustling local bazaar. We’ll also take time to appreciate the impressive Gurbanguly Haji Mosque, a modern architectural marvel. After the tour, we’ll transfer to your hotel to relax and settle in. Overnight in Mary. (Breakfast, Dinner)

Driving distance: 380 km / 238 ml.

After breakfast, we’ll head out to explore the Ancient City of Merv, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most significant cities along the ancient Silk Road. We’ll wander through the expansive historical park, visiting the impressive Sultan Sanjar Mausoleum, the monumental Large and Small Gyz Gala, Erk Gala, Gyaur Gala, the Keshk Fortresses, and the Muhammed ibn Zaid Mausoleum, among other remarkable landmarks that highlight the city’s rich cultural and historical heritage. After immersing ourselves in Merv's fascinating history, we’ll return to Mary for a short flight (approximately 40 minutes) to Ashgabat, Turkmenistan’s modern capital. Upon arrival, we’ll transfer to your hotel and you’ll have time to relax and settle in for the evening. Overnight in Ashgabat. (Breakfast, Dinner)

Driving distance: 65 km / 41 ml.

After breakfast, we’ll set out on a full-day city tour of Ashgabat, discovering the most iconic landmarks that define the city’s unique charm. Our exploration begins at the National Museum, where we’ll gain insight into Turkmenistan’s rich history and culture. We’ll then visit Independence Park, home to grand monuments symbolising the country’s sovereignty, before heading to the Rukhnama Monument and the impressive Neutrality Arch. Next, we’ll enjoy a panoramic ride on the Ferris Wheel, offering breathtaking views of the city, and visit the Magtymguly Monument, dedicated to Turkmenistan’s revered poet. A highlight of the day will be the visit to Nissa, an ancient UNESCO World Heritage Site that features fascinating remnants of Parthian architecture. Finally, we’ll visit the magnificent Turkmenbashi Mosque-Mausoleum, a stunning combination of spiritual significance and architectural beauty. After a day of discovery, we’ll transfer to the hotel for an overnight stay. Overnight in Ashgabat. (Breakfast, Dinner)

After breakfast, we’ll continue exploring Ashgabat, a city that beautifully blends modernity with tradition. Our day begins with a visit to the Ahalteke horse stables, where you’ll learn about Turkmenistan’s prized horses, followed by a stop at the stunning Ertogrul Ghazi Mosque. We’ll then see the historic Lenin Monument and experience the bustling atmosphere of the Russian Bazaar. Next, we’ll visit the moving Earthquake Monument and the Soviet War Memorial Complex, both commemorating significant moments in Turkmenistan’s history. The day wraps up with a tour of the Carpet Museum, where you can admire the intricate artistry of Turkmen carpets, followed by a visit to the Wedding Palace viewpoint, offering stunning panoramic views of the city. In the evening, we’ll transfer to the airport for a short flight (approximately 50 minutes) to Dashoguz. Upon arrival, we’ll meet you at the airport and transfer you to your hotel for an overnight stay. Overnight in Dashoguz. (Breakfast, Dinner)

Optional - Darvaza Gas Crater. For those seeking an additional adventure, there’s an option to visit the Darvaza Gas Crater, also known as the "Door to Hell." You can choose between a day trip or an overnight stay in a yurt camp near the crater. The driving distance to the crater is 275 km (172 miles), with an additional 300 km (188 miles) to Dashoguz. If you opt for the overnight trip, you’ll stay in a traditional yurt camp, allowing you to experience the desert’s unique atmosphere and witness the spectacular sight of the crater glowing under the night sky. This unforgettable experience offers a rare opportunity to immerse yourself in the vast, otherworldly landscape of Turkmenistan.

In the morning, we’ll set off for Kunya Urgench, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Turkmenistan’s most important historical locations. We’ll explore the fascinating historical park, which includes the towering Kutlug Timur Minaret, the elegant Mausoleum of Turabek Khanum, the Mausoleum of Tekesh, the Mausoleum of Il Arslan, and the Caravansaray Gateway, among other noteworthy sites. Afterward, we’ll head to Dashoguz for lunch and take time to visit the History Museum of Dashoguz Region, the Central Mosque, and the vibrant local bazaar. In the afternoon, we’ll cross the border into Uzbekistan and travel to Khiva, a beautifully preserved city on the Silk Road with a wealth of history and charm. Upon arrival, we’ll check into our hotel for an overnight stay. Overnight in Khiva. (Breakfast, Dinner)

Driving distance: 260 km / 163 ml.

Meet your guide in the hotel lobby for your Khiva sightseeing tour, where we’ll explore the wonders of Ichan Kala, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Our tour begins at the Kalta-Minor Minaret, an impressive yet unfinished structure that stands 26 meters tall and has a base diameter of 16 meters. It was originally intended to be 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 beautiful example of Islamic architecture. We’ll continue to the Islam Khodja Madrassah and Minaret, completed in 1908, before heading to the Juma Mosque, renowned for its flat roof supported by 218 intricately carved wooden columns, providing exceptional acoustics. These historical and architectural gems will offer you a deep insight into Khiva’s rich heritage. Overnight in Khiva. (Breakfast, Dinner)

The tour finishes with a transfer to the airport for your flight back home, marking the end of an 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