Explore Silk Road Cities and Mountain Landscapes Across Uzbekistan and Tajikistan

Tashkent

Arrive in Tashkent, where old meets new. Visit Khast Imam Square, home to the world’s oldest Koran and a centre of Islamic learning. Next door is the bustling Chorsu Bazaar, full of colour and energy. Take in the city’s unique mix of cultures and architectural styles as you wander the streets. The city was largely rebuilt after the devastating earthquake of 1966, which shaped much of its modern appearance. Don’t miss the renowned ballet theatre, a prominent cultural venue hosting impressive performances. The botanical garden is another highlight, offering a peaceful green space and a favorite spot for both locals and visitors. Tonight, relax and get ready for the journey ahead through Central Asia’s cities and landscapes.

Khiva

Travel to Khiva, a desert city surrounded by ancient mudbrick walls, an ancient city with a rich Silk Road legacy. Step into another world as you walk through its narrow lanes of minarets, mosques and traditional homes. The Itchan Kala, a UNESCO World Heritage Site old town, is like an open air museum. Dinner in a restored summer palace and views of the Kizilkum Desert and Amu Darya River. Khiva’s impressive architecture and monuments, including towering minarets, tell the story of caravan routes and dynasties. Magical in the evening when the city glows golden. Central Asia’s past comes alive.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Khiva

Bukhara

Cross the Kyzyl-Kum Desert to Bukhara, one of Central Asia’s most historic cities. This former Silk Road hub is famous for its grand mosques, trading domes and ancient madrassas. Visit centuries-old ancient sites like the Samanid Mausoleum, the final resting place of a significant historical figure, and the Ark Fortress, both of which showcase Bukhara's long history. Bukhara’s peaceful courtyards and friendly locals are a reminder of its past as a centre of Islamic scholarship and commerce. The old town is wonderfully preserved, and the city bazaar serves as a vibrant hub of local life, where you’ll feel like you’re living medieval life. As the sun sets, enjoy the warm hospitality and traditional charm that makes Bukhara the highlight of any trip to Uzbekistan.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Bukhara

Spend the day in Bukhara’s timeless beauty. Start at Lyabi Hauz, a peaceful square surrounded by madrassas and teahouses, and a favourite place for both visitors and locals. Visit the Poi-Kalyan complex and see the iconic minaret and mosques. Browse the domed bazaars for silk, ceramics and spices. In the evening, enjoy a cultural show at Nodir Divan Begui madrassah with local music and dance, and dine at a local restaurant to experience authentic regional cuisine. Bukhara is more than monuments, it’s the stories and soul of Central Asia. Take your time to soak up the atmosphere of a city that has been charming travellers for over 1000 years.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Samarkand

Travel to Samarkand, the legendary city of the Silk Road, where a rich tapestry of cultures and eras is woven into every street and monument. First stop is Registan Square where three stunning madrassas covered in tiles will take your breath away. Visit the Gur-Emir Mausoleum, one of the city's ancient sites and the resting place of Tamerlane the great conqueror. Browse local bazaars full of sweets, fabrics and souvenirs. Marvel at grand monuments like the Shah-i-Zinda complex and Bibi-Khanym Mosque, both ancient sites of immense historical importance, each telling the story of the city’s past. Many of these attractions are just a stone's throw from each other, making it easy to explore Samarkand's wonders. Samarkand is history, beauty and culture in every corner, one of Central Asia’s most unforgettable destinations. Relax tonight and enjoy the city’s lively atmosphere.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Samarkand

Samarkand

More of Samarkand’s wonders. Visit Bibi-Khanym Mosque, once one of the world’s largest mosques, built to impress. Walk through Shah-i-Zinda, a peaceful complex of beautifully tiled mausoleums that give a glimpse into the city’s spiritual history. Stop at the Afrosiab Museum to see artefacts from Samarkand’s ancient past, including displays on the architecture of a traditional house, which highlight the region’s cultural heritage. The exhibits explain the city’s development over the centuries. The afternoon is free to enjoy modern Samarkand’s cafes and local cuisine—take the opportunity to enjoy lunch at a local spot and experience authentic regional dishes. This extra day allows you to fully appreciate the city’s heritage, where every corner has a story and every building a legacy.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Tashkent

Return to Tashkent, stopping at Bakhmal village on the way. Here learn about cotton honey production and rural Uzbek traditions. Back in the capital, you can visit any sites missed earlier or enjoy free time to shop or walk in the city’s parks. As one of the larger cities in Central Asia, Tashkent offers conveniences such as currency exchange and widespread credit card acceptance, making it easy to access modern amenities. Tashkent combines past and present with grand avenues, Soviet buildings and vibrant neighbourhoods. For those interested in efficient travel, a high speed train connects Tashkent with other major destinations, providing a fast and comfortable way to explore the region. A relaxing way to end your time in Uzbekistan. This day also serves as a pause before entering Tajikistan, to reflect on the highlights of Khiva, Bukhara and Samarkand.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Tashkent

KHUDJAND

Cross the border into Tajikistan and arrive in Khudjand, one of the oldest cities in Central Asia, an ancient city with a rich past. A half day tour introduces you to landmarks like the Temur Malik Fortress and the Sheikh Musliddin madrassah. Visit the city’s central mosque and gain insight into Tajik spiritual traditions. Walk through the vibrant city bazaar, the local market where everyday life unfolds in colourful stalls. This city blends ancient heritage with street life. Surrounded by mountains and close to the Syr Darya River, Khudjand welcomes you to Tajikistan, setting the tone for the rest of your journey.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Istaravshan

Head to Istaravshan, nestled in the northern foothills of the Fann Mountains. This ancient town is full of architectural beauty and local culture. Explore ancient sites such as Muktepa, the old citadel, and visit the Khazrati Shokh madrassah, Bobotago and Khudoyor mausoleums, and the Chor-Gumbaz ensemble, which reveal the city's rich history. The buildings are a mix of Islamic and Central Asian styles. Wander through the narrow streets and see artisans at work. For a deeper understanding of the area's heritage, consider being accompanied by a local guide who can share insights into Istaravshan's past. Istaravshan feels timeless, with its peaceful atmosphere and mountain backdrop. This day is a quiet but fascinating look at Tajikistan’s heritage, a great stop on your journey.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Pendjikent

Head to Pendjikent, a city with deep historical roots linked to the Sogdians, one of Central Asia’s oldest civilisations. Explore the ruins of ancient Penjikent, a significant Sogdian city, at the archaeological site, and discover its well-preserved foundations and temples that date back to the 5th century. These ancient sites offer a glimpse into life before the Islamic period and highlight the region's cultural and historical importance. Visit the Rudaki Museum, named after the great Persian poet born here. See the Olim Dotkho Mosque and visit the local bazaar to see daily life. The city is history and culture wrapped in hospitality. Tonight stay in a cosy guesthouse and enjoy a peaceful evening in this charming town.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Pendjikent

SARITAG VILLAGE

Today’s drive takes you to the beautiful Iskanderkul Lake, located in the scenic Fan Mountains of Tajikistan, 7,000 feet above sea level and surrounded by mountains. Walk by the lake and enjoy the scenery, and take the opportunity to enjoy lunch with a view of the lake or mountains. A short trek to a nearby waterfall offers great views and fresh air. Continue to Saritag Village, a small community in the highlands. Enjoy a traditional dinner and overnight stay at a local guesthouse. The simple mountain life and stunning nature is a nice contrast to the cities, to fully enjoy Tajikistan’s wild beauty.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Dushanbe

Drive from Saritag to Dushanbe, passing rivers, valleys and mountains along the way. The journey itself is scenic, with great photo opportunities. Arrive in Dushanbe, the capital of Tajikistan and one of the major cities in the region, where old and new mix. As your final destination on this tour, Dushanbe offers a range of amenities, including wide avenues, friendly people and cafes. Visit Rudaki Park or simply relax after the long drive. Dushanbe is calm yet lively, the start of your final days on this journey through Central Asia’s culture and nature.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Dushanbe

Spend the day visiting Dushanbe’s cultural and historical sites. Start at Somoni Square, the city centre and visit the National Museum to learn more about Tajik history. Visit the botanical garden, a peaceful green space featuring old trees and diverse plant collections, and explore markets full of local produce and crafts. Later, visit the Gissar Fortress, just outside the city. For a cultural experience, consider stopping by the ballet theatre, a notable venue for performances in Dushanbe. In the evening, enjoy a special dinner with a traditional Tajik folk show—music, dancing and stories about the country’s heritage. This is the final full day of your time in Tajikistan.

Meals Included: Breakfast

DUSHANBE - DEPARTURE

The journey ends with a buffet breakfast at the hotel. After that, you will be transferred to the international airport for your flight home from Dushanbe, the final destination of your tour. Think back to the amazing experiences, from exploring ancient cities and ancient sites along the Silk Road to visiting the mountain villages of Tajikistan. This trip has taken you through history, culture, and nature—memories to last a lifetime.

Meals Included: Breakfast