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Uzbekistan: Samarkand, Bukhara & The Ancient Silk Road
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Length
9 Days
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Quality
This indicates the overall quality of the tour operator's products. A low rating does not mean it is not good - it just means that it does not include as much, or perhaps is of a more standard quality than the higher quality tours. For example, a 3 star quality rating means that it is a more standard/economical tour, while 5 stars is a very luxurious tour that often includes a lot of amenities. -
Starts in
Tashkent (Uzbekistan)
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Ends in
Tashkent (Uzbekistan)
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Available Tour Start Dates
OCT 10, 2026 to OCT 17, 2027
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Activity Level
Easy
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Style
Fully-Guided
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Guaranteed Date(s)
Yes means that there is at least one tour date that the vendor guarantees will occur. No means that there is not at least one tour date that the vendor guarantees will occur, which usually means that the vendor wants a certain amount of reservations on each tour in order for each one to occur. Of course, the terms and conditions of the vendor do allow for the vendor to cancel guaranteed tour dates for certain reasons (for example, a natural disaster).Yes
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Special Interest(s)
Small Group
Group trips average 12 travellers per departure, depending on the adventure. The maximum is usually no more than 16, but some can be smaller or bigger, depending on the trip. Check individual trips for details.
From
Pricing listed is per person, based on double occupancy, and is the least expensive price for at least one departure date of this tour. Price is for the tour only. Additional items, including but not limited to, airfare (unless noted otherwise), travel insurance, and more, are additional.
$2,899.00
Contact Us for a Special Price!
Overview
The Silk Road still knows how to make an entrance. On this 9-day adventure, start in the buzzing energy of Tashkent before the high-speed train delivers you to Samarkand's jaw-dropping Registan. Cook plov with a local family, lose yourself in Bukhara's ancient alleyways, then let the desert pull you to Khiva - a walled city barely touched by time. Thi is Central Asia at its most captivating.
Visited During Tour
Bukhara (Uzbekistan) | Khiva (Uzbekistan) | Samarkand (Uzbekistan) | Tashkent (Uzbekistan)
Dates, Offers & Prices
Tour Itinerary
More Details
Dates, Offers & Prices
The following are Uzbekistan: Samarkand, Bukhara & The Ancient Silk Road tour dates available from G Adventures. Select a bonus offer graphic to view its details, including its terms.
Tour Itinerary
G Adventures Tour Code AUUT-11377
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Day
1Tashkent
From the wide boulevards and buzzing cafes of Tashkent to the storybook skyline of Khiva, Uzbekistan unfolds like a living Silk Road manuscript - layered, intricate, and impossible to rush. Along the way, the mosaic-clad majesty of Samarkand and the timeless alleyways of Bukhara invite you to step beyond the present and into centuries of trade, scholarship, and cultural exchange. Begin your adventure with a transfer to your hotel, followed by a welcome dinner where you can immerse yourself in the flavors and warmth of Uzbek hospitality.
- Meals Included:
- Dinner
Exclusive Inclusions:
Arrival Transfer
You will be met at the airport and transferred to the hotel to start your adventure.
Tashkent Orientation Walk
Join your CEO for a orientation walk through Tashkent. Get to know the area around your hotel better explore some of this awesome city.
Welcome Moment - Meet Your CEO and Group
Your opportunity to meet your CEO and fellow travellers, and learn more about your tour. Opt to join the group for a local meal afterwards. Don't forget to see the notice in the lobby (or ask reception) for the official time and place to meet up with the group. After your welcome meeting, join an included welcome dinner with your group.
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Day
2Tashkent/Samarkand
Today, begin your journey to Samarkand. Embark on a high-speed Afrosiyob train ride to Samarkand, a journey that covers 344 km in just under 2 hours. Start at the Afrosiab Museum, home to remarkable archaeological finds from ancient Afrasiab-the original settlement of Samarkand-offering insight into the city's pre-Mongol grandeur. After time for lunch at leisure, continue to the breathtaking Shah-i-Zinda, a stunning avenue of mausoleums adorned with intricate tilework and vibrant blue mosaics, one of the most sacred and photogenic sites in the region. Later, join a hands-on experience: a home-hosted plov cooking class and dinner, where you'll learn to prepare Uzbekistan's national dish and share the meal with your hosts. A day of history, color, and culinary tradition comes to a delicious close.
- Meals Included:
- Breakfast
- Dinner
Exclusive Inclusions:
Train
Climb aboard, take a seat, and enjoy the ride.
Afrosiab Museum Visit
Visit the Afrosiab Museum, home to remarkable 7th-century wall paintings that reveal the political, cultural, and diplomatic life of the ancient Sogdian city of Afrasiab.
Plov Cooking Class and Dinner
Visit a local family and learn how to make Plov, a traditional dish found all throughout Central Asia that varies from country to country and household to household. In Uzbekistan, it's most often a combination of rice, carrots, onions and lamb cooked in a massive cast iron, wok-like pan. Enjoy the delicious results for dinner.
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Day
3Your OMG Day: Samarkand
Get ready for your OMG day in Samarkand! Start with a guided tour of the city's must-see treasures: the stunning Gur-e-Amir Mausoleum, final resting place of Timur, followed by the iconic Registan Square, and the grand Bibi-Khanym Mosque. Wander through the lively Siyob Bazaar before heading to Konigil Village for lunch and a workshop on traditional Samarkand silk paper-making.In the afternoon, you'll have the chance to customize your experience with a hands-on artisan activity at Traditions Square-choose between leather-making or embroidery-and then enjoy free time to relax or continue exploring this incredible city.
- Meals Included:
- Breakfast
- Lunch
Exclusive Inclusions:
Guided tour of Samarkand
Begin your guided city tour of Samarkand at the majestic Gur-e-Amir Mausoleum, the final resting place of the legendary conqueror Timur, known for its stunning blue-tiled dome and intricate mosaics. Then, continue to the iconic Registan Square, the historic heart of the city, where three grand madrasahs showcase the pinnacle of Timurid architecture and centuries of cultural heritage.
Bibi-Khanym Mosque & Siyob Bazaar
Visit the Bibi-Khanym Mosque, marveling at its soaring domes and intricate tilework, once one of the largest mosques in the Islamic world. Then, visit the Siyob Bazaar, where you can experience the sights, smells, and flavors of local life with fresh produce, spices, breads, and handmade crafts.
Lunch and Silk Paper Making Workshop at Konigil Village
Visit the Village of Konigil, on the banks of the ancient Siab Canal. Here you can learn about and witness some of the historic traditions of Uzbekistan. Pay a visit to the old Silk Paper Workshop and learn for yourself how to make paper in this ancient method before an included lunch.
Your OMG Day: Leather Making or Embroidery Workshop at Traditions Square
Immerse yourself in Samarkand's rich artisan heritage at Traditions Square with a hands-on workshop. Either experience offers a unique opportunity to connect with the city's living traditions and take home a one-of-a-kind souvenir of your visit. Option 1: Craft your own leather masterpiece, a material historically prized in Samarkand for its use in saddles, shoes, and decorative goods along the Silk Road. Option 2: Learn and practice the intricate art of traditional embroidery, where vibrant patterns tell stories of centuries-old craftsmanship.
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Day
4Samarkand/Bukhara
Today, travel from Samarkand to Bukhara, one of Uzbekistan's most captivating Silk Road cities. Along the way, visit the Al Bukhari Complex to see the remains from the 11th-century Rabat-i Malik Caravanserai, and a traditional pottery workshop in Gijduvan, where artisans continue centuries-old ceramic traditions. Enjoy lunch at the pottery workshop before continuing your journey. Arrive in Bukhara and check in to your hotel. Visit the beautiful Lyabi Khauz ensemble, a historic plaza framed by madrasahs and a serene pond before a free evening to explore Bukhara at your leisure.
- Meals Included:
- Breakfast
- Lunch
Exclusive Inclusions:
Visit Al Bukhari Complex
Visit the Imam al-Bukhari Memorial Complex, a serene pilgrimage site honoring renowned 9th-century scholar Muhammad al-Bukhari, where elegant domes and peaceful courtyards celebrate his lasting influence on Islamic scholarship.
Gijduvan Pottery Workshop & Lunch
Stop at a traditional pottery workshop in Gijduvan to watch artisans craft distinctive hand-painted ceramics using centuries-old techniques, followed by a relaxing lunch featuring local Uzbek flavors.
Private Vehicle
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
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Day
5Bukhara
Explore the heart of Bukhara on foot, beginning at the Samanid Mausoleum, one of the oldest and most revered monuments in Central Asia. Fun fact: it's considered one of the finest examples of early Islamic architecture in the region, built entirely of baked bricks without any wood or stone. Continue to Chashma Ayub, the legendary "Job's Well," believed to have sprung from the ground when the prophet struck it with his staff, then visit the elegant Bolo-Khauz Mosque, known for its beautifully painted wooden columns reflected in the tranquil pool before it.From there, step into history at the Ark Fortress, Bukhara's ancient citadel and seat of power for centuries, before concluding at the magnificent Po-i-Kalyan Complex, a breathtaking ensemble of mosque, minaret, and madrasa that defines the city's skyline.Enjoy free time in the afternoon to explore Bukhara at your own pace, soaking in the city's timeless charm and vibrant streets. In the evening, savor a traditional dinner accompanied by a lively folklore performance, rounding out a day of history, culture, and local flavor.
- Meals Included:
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
Exclusive Inclusions:
Bukhara Walking Tour: Ark Fortress & Po-i-Kalyan
Walk from the hotel to the Ark Fortress, an imposing citadel with centuries of history. Continue on foot to visit the Po-i-Kalyan Complex, featuring iconic minarets and mosques.
Guided city tour in Bukhara
Enjoy a guided city tour exploring Bukhara's architectural highlights, including the Ismail Samani Mausoleum, Chashma Ayub, and the Bolo-Khauz Mosque.
Free Time
Enjoy free time in the afternoon to explore Bukhara at your leisure.
Dinner & folklore music performance
Enjoy an enchanting evening in Bukhara with a traditional dinner accompanied by a folklore performance. Savor authentic Uzbek dishes while musicians play traditional instruments and dancers bring the region's vibrant history and culture to life.
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Day
6Bukhara/Khiva
Travel by train from Bukhara to Khiva, a UNESCO World Heritage site famed for its perfectly preserved medieval walls and historic architecture. Upon arrival, take an orientation walking tour inside Itchan-Qala, the walled old town filled with minarets, madrassahs, and charming streets. Spend the evening at leisure to explore Khiva on your own, soaking in the city's unique atmosphere and timeless charm.
- Meals Included:
- Breakfast
- Lunch
Exclusive Inclusions:
Train
Climb aboard, take a seat, and enjoy the ride.
Khiva Orientation Walk
Explore a bit of Khiva alongside your group on an orientation walk.
Free Time
Enjoy an evening to explore Khiva at your leisure.
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Day
7Khiva/Tashkent
Begin the day with a guided walking tour of Khiva, exploring the UNESCO-listed Itchan-Kala and its architectural treasures, including the wooden-columned Juma Mosque, the striking turquoise-tiled Kalta Minor, and the historic Kunya Ark. Enjoy some free time before transferring to Urgench International Airport for your flight back to Tashkent, where you can soak up more of the capital's vibrant atmosphere this evening.
- Meals Included:
- Breakfast
- Dinner
Exclusive Inclusions:
Khiva Ancient City Exploration
Khiva feels like a museum city, with well-preserved city walls and ancient monuments. Wander the city on a guided tour, learn about life here and its important place in history.
Ichan-Qala (Itchan Kala) Visit
Check out the sand-coloured brick structures populating the inner walls of the Ichan-Qala through the walled inner town of Khiva.
Private Vehicle
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Plane
Look! Up in the sky! It's a bird! It's a plane! It's... yup, it is a plane, actually.
Private Vehicle
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
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Day
8Tashkent
Discover Tashkent, a dynamic capital shaped by both Silk Road heritage and striking Soviet-era design. Begin by exploring the city's Soviet side at Amir Temur Square, the symbolic heart of modern Tashkent. From here, stroll along lively Tashkent Broadway to Independence Square, one of the country's most important civic spaces, reflecting Uzbekistan's post-independence identity. Then, descend into the beautifully decorated Tashkent Metro, renowned for its ornate stations, and ride to Chorsu Bazaar. From here, enjoy free time to explore the bustling bazaar at your own pace-soaking in the colors, aromas, and flavors of local life. You may choose to walk back to the hotel or connect with your CEO for assistance with optional activities tailored to your interests.
- Meals Included:
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
Exclusive Inclusions:
Guided tour of Tashkent
Embark on a half-day guided adventure through Tashkent's vibrant heart-explore the bustling Chorsu Bazaar, soak in the history at Amir Temur Square, and dive underground to discover the stunning art of the Tashkent Metro.
Free Time
In the afternoon, enjoy free time to explore Tashkent at your leisure.
Farewell Dinner in Tashkent
Say farewell to Uzbekistan and your fellow group members with a farewell dinner overlooking the city skyline.
1Optional Activities for Day 8
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Day
9Tashkent
Your journey comes to an end with an transfer from your hotel to Tashkent International Airport. Depart at your leisure, taking with you memories of turquoise domes, ancient Silk Road cities, and the warm hospitality of Uzbekistan.
- Meals Included:
- Breakfast
Exclusive Inclusions:
Departure Transfer
You will be met at your hotel and transferred to the airport at the end of your adventure.
More Details
G Adventures is informing us of the following additional details regarding their Uzbekistan: Samarkand, Bukhara & The Ancient Silk Road tour:
Group Size
Max 16, avg 12
What's Included
Your Welcome Moment: Welcome Moment - Meet Your CEO and Group, TashkentYour Local Living Moment: Plov Cooking Class and Dinner, SamarkandYour OMG Day: Your OMG Day: Leather Making or Embroidery Workshop at Traditions Square, Samarkand. Arrival transfer. Welcome Dinner. Internal trains. Visit Afrosiab Museum. Hands-on paper workshop. Guided tour of Registan Square. Visit Gur-e-Amir Mausoleum. Visit Shah-i-Zinda complex. Guided city tour of Bukhara. Included dinner with folklore music performance. Home-hosted plov cooking class and dinner. Visit Bibi-Khanym Mosque. VIsit Siyob Bazaar. Visit Ark Fortress (Citadel). Visit Po-i-Kalyan Complex. Visit Lyabi-Khauz ensemble. Guided walking tour of Khiva. Internal flights. Guided city tour of Tashkent. Visit to Chorsu Bazaar. Farewell dinner. All transfers in between destinations.
Highlights
Stand before Registan Square - one of the Silk Road's greatest stages, Cook plov with a local family and hand-craft traditional Uzbek paper, Sleep in a converted Jewish house deep in Bukhara's old city, Wander Khiva's ancient walled city among minarets and mosques, Sample honim and lose yourself in Tashkent's Chorsu Bazaar
Message from G Adventures About Travel Insurance
Travel Insurance: Travel insurance is compulsory in order to participate on any of our trips. When travelling on a group trip, you will not be permitted to join the group until evidence of travel insurance has been sighted by your CEO, who will take note of your insurance details. When selecting a travel insurance policy please bear in mind that all clients must have medical coverage and that we require a minimum coverage of USD 200,000 for repatriation and emergency rescue. We strongly recommend that the policy also covers personal liability, cancellation, curtailment and loss of luggage and personal effects. If you have credit card insurance we require proof of purchase of the trip (a receipt of credit card statement) with a credit card in your name. Contact your bank for details of their participating insurer, the level of coverage and emergency contact telephone number.
Optional Activities
G Adventures is offering the following optional activities at an additional cost, subject to availability:
Tashkent- Visit to Islamic Civilization Center (35USD per person)
Accommodation Summary
Hotels (8 nts)
Meals Included
8 breakfasts, 5 lunches, 5 dinners
What are the meals like on this trip?
While traveling with us you will experience the vast array of wonderful food available in the world. Generally, to give you the maximum flexibility in deciding where, what and with whom to eat, not all meals are included in the trip price. This also gives you more budgeting flexibility. As a rule our groups tend to eat together to enable you to taste a larger variety of dishes and enjoy each other's company. There is no obligation to do this though. Your CEO will be able to suggest favorite restaurants during your trip. Please check the 'meal inclusions' section below for details of meals included.
Group Leader
CEO (Chief Experience Officer) throughout.
What is the group leader like?
All G Adventures group trips are accompanied by one of our Chief Experience Officers (CEO). The aim of the CEO is to take the hassle out of your travels and to help you have the best trip possible. They will provide information on the places you are travelling through, offer suggestions for things to do and see, recommend great local eating venues and introduce you to our local friends. While not being guides in the traditional sense you can expect them to have a broad general knowledge of the countries visited on the trip, including historical, cultural, religious and social aspects. We also use local guides where we think more specific knowledge will add to the enjoyment of the places we are visiting- we think it's the best of both worlds.
International Flights
No, international flights are generally not included in the price of your tour. However, on some combo tours travelling between two different countries, international flights are included as part of the itinerary and price of the tour. Please speak to your GCO or booking agent for further details. In addition, check-in times and baggage allowances/restrictions vary by airline and can change at any time. For the most up-to-date information for your flight, please contact your airline. We recommend checking in online in advance to avoid potential delays at the airport.
Transportation
Private Vehicle, Plane, Train, Walking.
Minimum Age
Minimum age of 18 years for this trip.
How should I dress to respect local customs during the tour?
Central Asian dress is quite conservative. Plan to pack loose-fitting light clothing appropriate for hot weather and plan to cover knees, shoulders and chest. For women, a hair scarf is recommended, though they are easy to buy in country.
Checklist
Cold Weather:o Long-sleeved shirts or sweatero Scarfo Warm gloveso Warm hato Warm layerso Warm waterproof jacketConservative Dress:o Modest clothing that covers knees and shoulders (Long pants, long skirts, shirts that cover shoulders)o Shawl or scarf (for temple visits)Documents:o Flight info (required) (Printouts of e-tickets may be required at the border)o Insurance info (required) (With photocopies)o Passport (required) (With photocopies)o Vouchers and pre-departure information (required)o Visas or vaccination certificates (With photocopies)Essentials:o Toiletries (required) (Shampoo, bodywash, soap, etc.)o Binoculars (optional)o Camera (With extra memory cards and batteries)o Cash, credit and debit cardso Day pack (Used for daily excursions or short overnights)o Ear plugso First-aid kit (should contain lip balm with sunscreen, sunscreen, whistle, Aspirin, Ibuprofen, bandaids/plasters, tape, anti-histamines, antibacterial gel/wipes, antiseptic cream, Imodium or similar tablets for mild cases of diarrhea, rehydration powder, water purification tablets or drops, insect repellent, sewing kit, extra prescription drugs you may be taking)o Flashlight/torch (Headlamps are ideal)o Fleece top/sweatero Footwearo Hato Headphones (Noise-cancelling recommended)o Locks for bagso Long pants/jeanso Moneybelto Outlet adaptero Personal entertainment (Reading and writing materials, cards, music player, etc.)o Reusable water bottleo Shirts/t-shirtso Sleepwearo Small travel towelo Sunglasseso Swimwearo Watch and alarm clocko Waterproof backpack covero Windproof rain jacketHealth & Safety:o Face masks (Clients will be only be required to wear a face mask where it is mandated by local regulations.)o Hand sanitizero Pen (Please bring your own pen for filling out documents.)Train Travel (Optional):o Slip-on shoeso Small container with lido Travel cutlery o Travel or camp cupWarm Weather:o Sandals/flip-flopso Shorts/skirts (Longer shorts/skirts are recommended)o Sturdy water shoes/sandalso Sun hat/bandanao Swimwear
When can I do my laundry on this trip?
Laundry facilities are offered by some of our hotels for a charge. There will be times when you may want to or have to do your own laundry so we suggest you bring non-polluting/biodegradable soap.
Service Level
Upgraded: Quality accommodations and more inclusions than on other G Adventures tours, like meals, private transport, and activities.
Pricing and availability are subject to change and must be confirmed by one of our travel advisors, who can contact the vendor to do so. Intra-vacation air (also referred to as internal air) is usually based on economy class seating (do not assume otherwise, unless explicity noted otherwise) and may be 100% non-refundable at time of final payment. Air quotes (including intra-vacation airfare) may be subject to change until final payment has been received by the vendor. Flight confirmation may be based on availability. Air reservations may not be able to be confirmed until a passport copy is received by the vendor. The following charges are not included in the vacation price unless otherwise noted: airfare to and from the start of your vacation; airline baggage fees including checked and/or excess baggage fees; Federal inspection fees for the Federal U.S. Customs and Immigrations; International Air Transportation tax; agricultural tax; other per person taxes imposed by government entities; airport taxes and fees, including the September 11th Security fee, passenger facility charges, Federal domestic flight segment fees, and U.S. and international arrival and departure and other government-imposed fees added by the airline and applicable at time of booking; port taxes; passports; visas and vaccinations; tips to your Cruise Director, Local Host, driver, Local Guides, and/or ship's crew; gratuities on ferries, trains, and cruise ships; laundry; telephone; minibar; alcohol, beverages, and food outside of the contracted menu as presented at a hotel or restaurant or onboard your vessel (these extra items will be billed to you before leaving the hotel, ship, or restaurant); airport transfers on non-qualifying flights; optional excursions; additional activities and excursions purchased online; porterage at airports and train stations; Travel Protection; and all other items of a personal nature. Itinerary details are provided by the vendor. Vendors may reserve the right to change itineraries, even on existing reservations. There may be instances where the name of a tour contains a tour length in it, but where there is a version of the tour that is a different number of days in length. You can check the true length of a tour by referring to the length value listed in association with that tour. Destination images displayed on this web page, some which are supplied by the related vendor and some which are not, are intended to simply give a general representation of the region of the world being visited during the tour. Such images are not necessarily of the exact areas being visited during the tour. Hotel details (including, but not limited to: rating/class, descriptions, images, amenities and addresses) are provided by G Adventures. Hotel amenities may be communicated in shorthand by G Adventures (for example, if "Laundry" is listed that may only mean that the hotel has an optional fee-based service that would allow for your laundry to be done by their staff). We reserve the right to correct errors.