Samarkand, one of the oldest inhabited cities in Central Asia, is a dazzling jewel in Uzbekistan's historic crown. Known for its pivotal role on the Silk Road, this UNESCO World Heritage site is replete with architectural masterpieces. The Registan Square, with its three majestic madrasas, epitomizes Islamic architecture's grandeur. The awe-inspiring Gur-e-Amir Mausoleum and the vast Shah-i-Zinda necropolis showcase exquisite craftsmanship and artistry. Samarkand's rich cultural tapestry is also evident in its bustling markets and diverse culinary flavours. This city is not just a place but a testament to the region's glorious past and vibrant present.
Samarkand's beating heart, Registan Square, stands as a testament to architectural magnificence. Surrounded by three madrasahs—Ulugbek, Sherdor, and Tilla-Kori—each building's intricate mosaics, azure domes, and towering minarets are breathtaking. As you tread the historical grounds, imagine scholars of yore debating sciences and philosophies, making it not just a visual but a temporal journey through the corridors of Central Asian history.
Known as the "Tomb of the Living King," Shah-i-Zinda is an awe-inspiring avenue of mausoleums. The necropolis, revered for its religious significance and architectural splendour, houses the final resting places of royals and nobles. As sunlight filters through the ornate carvings, the tales of legends such as Qusam ibn-Abbas, Prophet Muhammad's cousin, come alive, weaving a rich tapestry of faith, art, and legacy.
Delve into the origins of Samarkand at Afrasiyab, the city's ancient precursor. While the archaeological ruins narrate stories of a bygone metropolis, the adjacent museum showcases relics, frescoes, and artifacts from various epochs. The mural of the "Ambassadors' Painting" is particularly noteworthy, capturing a diplomatic scene that harks back to the days of the Sogdians, cementing Samarkand's place in the annals of global history.
Step into the world of ancient astronomy at the Ulugbek Observatory, built by the visionary ruler and scientist, Ulugbek. Once housing the world's largest sextant, the observatory remains an emblem of the astronomical advances of the Timurid era. Stand where Ulugbek himself once studied the heavens, and be transported to an age when Samarkand was a global epicentre of scientific inquiry.
The bustling Siyob Bazaar offers a sensory overload—vibrant colours, fragrant spices, and the harmonious cacophony of traders. Traverse its alleyways to sample local delights like dried fruits, fresh bread, and fragrant teas. Beyond the commerce, the bazaar becomes a window into daily Uzbek life, traditions, and the age-old legacy of trade in a city that was once a pinnacle stop on the Silk Road.
Samarkand's viticulture legacy dates back over two millennia, with Alexander the Great reportedly praising the region's grapes. Visit local wineries to sample varieties unique to the region, such as Gulyakandoz, Shirin, and Aleatiko. As the flavours dance on your palate, you're not just tasting wine but partaking in a cherished tradition, imbibing the very essence of the region.
Explore the ancient wonders and cultural treasures of Uzbekistan and Turkmenistan on a 14-day journey through the Silk Road's most iconic cities, uncovering the region's rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant traditions.
People & Culture, Art & Architecture, History & Archaeology
Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan
PRIVATE
Explore Central Asia’s gems on this 14-day tour, from Uzbekistan's historic Silk Road cities to Kazakhstan's natural beauty and modern architecture. Immerse in rich cultures, ancient history, and stunning landscapes, culminating in an unforgettable journey through Tashkent, Samarkand, Almaty, and Nur-Sultan.
People & Culture, Art & Architecture, History & Archaeology
Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan
PRIVATE
Discover the heart of Central Asia on this immersive 14-day tour that blends ancient history and modern space exploration. From the cultural treasures of Almaty and Samarkand to the excitement of a Baikonur rocket launch, experience the diverse wonders of Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan.
Heritage, Art & Architecture, History & Archaeology
Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan
PRIVATE
Embark on a 20-day odyssey through Central Asia, exploring ancient ruins, vibrant bazaars, and stunning natural landscapes from Turkmenistan to Kazakhstan. Experience the rich tapestry of history, culture, and nature that defines this enchanting region.
Heritage, History & Archaeology
Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan
PRIVATE
Discover the essence of Kyrgyzstan and Uzbekistan on this 16-day comprehensive tour. From Bishkek's vibrant city life to the ancient Silk Road cities of Samarkand, Bukhara, and Khiva, experience unparalleled cultural insights, stunning natural beauty, and rich historical heritage.
People & Culture, Art & Architecture, History & Archaeology
Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan
PRIVATE
Embark on an unforgettable 11-day journey through Kyrgyzstan and Uzbekistan, where ancient Silk Road cities, breathtaking landscapes, and rich cultural traditions await. Discover the history, beauty, and spirit of Central Asia on this comprehensive tour.
People & Culture, Art & Architecture, History & Archaeology
Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan
PRIVATE
Embark on a 14-day journey through Uzbekistan and Kyrgyzstan, exploring ancient Silk Road cities, breathtaking landscapes, and cultural treasures. Experience the architectural wonders of Samarkand and Khiva, the natural beauty of Issyk Kul Lake, and the serene wilderness of Ala Archa National Park.
Art & Architecture, History & Archaeology
Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan
PRIVATE
This 14-day tour offers an immersive exploration of Uzbekistan and Tajikistan, revealing the splendour of Silk Road cities, architectural wonders, and breathtaking natural landscapes. Experience the rich history, culture, and hospitality of Central Asia.
Art & Architecture, History & Archaeology
Tajikistan, Uzbekistan
PRIVATE
Embark on an extraordinary 13-day journey across Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan, exploring ancient cities, Silk Road relics, and natural wonders. From Almaty’s vibrant streets to Samarkand’s Registan and Bukhara’s historic core, discover the heart of Central Asia’s cultural and natural heritage.
People & Culture, Art & Architecture, History & Archaeology
Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan
PRIVATE
A 14-day trek through Tajikistan's Fann Mountains, blending challenging hikes with cultural encounters. Explore ancient petroglyphs, pristine lakes, and enjoy local hospitality before concluding in historic Tashkent.
Hiking/Trekking, People & Culture, History & Archaeology
Tajikistan, Uzbekistan
PRIVATE
Explore the ancient wonders and cultural treasures of Uzbekistan and Turkmenistan on a 14-day journey through the Silk Road's most iconic cities, uncovering the region's rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant traditions.
People & Culture, Art & Architecture, History & Archaeology
Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan
PRIVATE
Explore Central Asia’s gems on this 14-day tour, from Uzbekistan's historic Silk Road cities to Kazakhstan's natural beauty and modern architecture. Immerse in rich cultures, ancient history, and stunning landscapes, culminating in an unforgettable journey through Tashkent, Samarkand, Almaty, and Nur-Sultan.
People & Culture, Art & Architecture, History & Archaeology
Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan
PRIVATE
Discover the heart of Central Asia on this immersive 14-day tour that blends ancient history and modern space exploration. From the cultural treasures of Almaty and Samarkand to the excitement of a Baikonur rocket launch, experience the diverse wonders of Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan.
Heritage, Art & Architecture, History & Archaeology
Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan
PRIVATE
Embark on a 20-day odyssey through Central Asia, exploring ancient ruins, vibrant bazaars, and stunning natural landscapes from Turkmenistan to Kazakhstan. Experience the rich tapestry of history, culture, and nature that defines this enchanting region.
Heritage, History & Archaeology
Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan
PRIVATE
Discover the essence of Kyrgyzstan and Uzbekistan on this 16-day comprehensive tour. From Bishkek's vibrant city life to the ancient Silk Road cities of Samarkand, Bukhara, and Khiva, experience unparalleled cultural insights, stunning natural beauty, and rich historical heritage.
People & Culture, Art & Architecture, History & Archaeology
Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan
PRIVATE
Embark on an unforgettable 11-day journey through Kyrgyzstan and Uzbekistan, where ancient Silk Road cities, breathtaking landscapes, and rich cultural traditions await. Discover the history, beauty, and spirit of Central Asia on this comprehensive tour.
People & Culture, Art & Architecture, History & Archaeology
Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan
PRIVATE
Embark on a 14-day journey through Uzbekistan and Kyrgyzstan, exploring ancient Silk Road cities, breathtaking landscapes, and cultural treasures. Experience the architectural wonders of Samarkand and Khiva, the natural beauty of Issyk Kul Lake, and the serene wilderness of Ala Archa National Park.
Art & Architecture, History & Archaeology
Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan
PRIVATE
This 14-day tour offers an immersive exploration of Uzbekistan and Tajikistan, revealing the splendour of Silk Road cities, architectural wonders, and breathtaking natural landscapes. Experience the rich history, culture, and hospitality of Central Asia.
Art & Architecture, History & Archaeology
Tajikistan, Uzbekistan
PRIVATE
Embark on an extraordinary 13-day journey across Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan, exploring ancient cities, Silk Road relics, and natural wonders. From Almaty’s vibrant streets to Samarkand’s Registan and Bukhara’s historic core, discover the heart of Central Asia’s cultural and natural heritage.
People & Culture, Art & Architecture, History & Archaeology
Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan
PRIVATE
A 14-day trek through Tajikistan's Fann Mountains, blending challenging hikes with cultural encounters. Explore ancient petroglyphs, pristine lakes, and enjoy local hospitality before concluding in historic Tashkent.
Hiking/Trekking, People & Culture, History & Archaeology
Tajikistan, Uzbekistan
PRIVATE
Explore the ancient wonders and cultural treasures of Uzbekistan and Turkmenistan on a 14-day journey through the Silk Road's most iconic cities, uncovering the region's rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant traditions.
People & Culture, Art & Architecture, History & Archaeology
Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan
PRIVATE
Explore Central Asia’s gems on this 14-day tour, from Uzbekistan's historic Silk Road cities to Kazakhstan's natural beauty and modern architecture. Immerse in rich cultures, ancient history, and stunning landscapes, culminating in an unforgettable journey through Tashkent, Samarkand, Almaty, and Nur-Sultan.
People & Culture, Art & Architecture, History & Archaeology
Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan
PRIVATE
Discover the heart of Central Asia on this immersive 14-day tour that blends ancient history and modern space exploration. From the cultural treasures of Almaty and Samarkand to the excitement of a Baikonur rocket launch, experience the diverse wonders of Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan.
Heritage, Art & Architecture, History & Archaeology
Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan
PRIVATE
Embark on a 20-day odyssey through Central Asia, exploring ancient ruins, vibrant bazaars, and stunning natural landscapes from Turkmenistan to Kazakhstan. Experience the rich tapestry of history, culture, and nature that defines this enchanting region.
Heritage, History & Archaeology
Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan
PRIVATE
Discover the essence of Kyrgyzstan and Uzbekistan on this 16-day comprehensive tour. From Bishkek's vibrant city life to the ancient Silk Road cities of Samarkand, Bukhara, and Khiva, experience unparalleled cultural insights, stunning natural beauty, and rich historical heritage.
People & Culture, Art & Architecture, History & Archaeology
Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan
PRIVATE
Embark on an unforgettable 11-day journey through Kyrgyzstan and Uzbekistan, where ancient Silk Road cities, breathtaking landscapes, and rich cultural traditions await. Discover the history, beauty, and spirit of Central Asia on this comprehensive tour.
People & Culture, Art & Architecture, History & Archaeology
Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan
PRIVATE
Embark on a 14-day journey through Uzbekistan and Kyrgyzstan, exploring ancient Silk Road cities, breathtaking landscapes, and cultural treasures. Experience the architectural wonders of Samarkand and Khiva, the natural beauty of Issyk Kul Lake, and the serene wilderness of Ala Archa National Park.
Art & Architecture, History & Archaeology
Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan
PRIVATE
This 14-day tour offers an immersive exploration of Uzbekistan and Tajikistan, revealing the splendour of Silk Road cities, architectural wonders, and breathtaking natural landscapes. Experience the rich history, culture, and hospitality of Central Asia.
Art & Architecture, History & Archaeology
Tajikistan, Uzbekistan
PRIVATE
Embark on an extraordinary 13-day journey across Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan, exploring ancient cities, Silk Road relics, and natural wonders. From Almaty’s vibrant streets to Samarkand’s Registan and Bukhara’s historic core, discover the heart of Central Asia’s cultural and natural heritage.
People & Culture, Art & Architecture, History & Archaeology
Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan
PRIVATE
A 14-day trek through Tajikistan's Fann Mountains, blending challenging hikes with cultural encounters. Explore ancient petroglyphs, pristine lakes, and enjoy local hospitality before concluding in historic Tashkent.
Hiking/Trekking, People & Culture, History & Archaeology
Tajikistan, Uzbekistan
PRIVATE
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Discover sides of Asia you never knew existed, revealed by people who know every facet.
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June 01 - 1, June 01, 2025
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June 01 - 1, June 01, 2025
Here is a small selection of the kind words our clients have said us recently.
"The itinerary was as we expected... the Asian Geographical Expeditions did a fantastic job, going the extra mile to ensure we had the best holiday ever.”
"We were really impressed with the immaculate organisation ... The Asian Geographical Expeditions team kept in communication during the tour, ensuring that each of our members was comfortable."
"Every detail of our trip was superbly executed... (and) the exceptional attentiveness of the guides added a feeling of luxury and comfort that was much appreciated."
"Every aspect of the trip, from guides to accommodation and the well-planned itinerary ... was seamlessly orchestrated. We will always recommend Asian Geographical Expeditions for anyone looking to explore Central Asia in unparalleled depth and comfort."