My 5 Days in Tajikistan: Trip Report

Hello, fellow travelers!

Planning my trip to Tajikistan was challenging due to the lack of easily accessible, reliable information. To make things easier for others, I’d love to share my detailed experience in this breathtaking country.

In October 2024, I spent 14 days exploring Uzbekistan and Tajikistan. My Tajikistan segment lasted five days, entering from Samarkand by land and exiting through Khujand to Tashkent. Here’s my detailed 5-day itinerary:

Day 1: Border Crossing & Haftkul (Seven Lakes)

• Morning:
  I crossed the border from Samarkand to Panjakent with ease (Mexican passport). The process was smooth and quick. My pre-booked driver met me at the border with a comfortable Toyota, and we headed to the Sugd Hotel to check in and stock up on snacks for the day.

• Afternoon:
  Around 11:00 AM, we left for Haftkul. The Seven Lakes were far more stunning than any photos can portray. The road winding through the Fann Mountains was a highlight of my trip. We took our time exploring each lake and picnicked near the last one.

• Evening:
  Returned to Panjakent and spent a quiet evening at Sugd Hotel. While Panjakent itself isn’t a major attraction, it’s a convenient base for exploring the lakes.

Day 2: Iskanderkul & Sarytag Village

• Morning:
  Departed for Iskanderkul around 9:30 AM, arriving by noon. The drive offered some of the most incredible mountain scenery I’ve ever seen. We stopped frequently for photos.

• At Iskanderkul:
  The lake was serene, and a short hike to the nearby waterfall was a rewarding experience.

• Afternoon & Evening:
  We drove to Sarytag, a quaint village nestled in the mountains. Though simple, the setting was magical. I stayed at Shaboz Homestay, which offered cozy accommodations and home-cooked meals.

Day 3: Morning at Iskanderkul & Istaravshan Stopover

• Morning:
  We revisited Iskanderkul to soak in the morning tranquility before heading to Istaravshan.

• Afternoon:
  Istaravshan was a bit underwhelming. While the market and city center were interesting, the fortress didn’t live up to expectations.

• Evening:
  Reached Khujand by 6:00 PM and checked into the Grand Hotel Khujand, which I highly recommend. The evening was spent exploring Khujand’s fortress and city center.

Day 4: Full Day in Khujand

Khujand turned out to be a delightful surprise. Highlights included:

• The bustling market.
• A cable car ride offering panoramic views of the city.
• Beautiful parks and local restaurants.
• A guided tour of Arbob Palace—a must-see for its history and architecture.

Day 5: Exit to Uzbekistan

• Morning:
  I hired a taxi to the Uzbekistan border. The crossing was straightforward but took 1.5 hours due to a technical system delay.

Key Tips for Travelers:

• Driver & Car Hire:
  For Days 1–3, I hired a driver and car for $450 USD, including fuel, accommodation, and meals. While pricey, the convenience of photo stops and flexibility was worth it.

• Haftkul vs. Iskanderkul:
  Both are stunning, but Haftkul felt more dynamic with its multiple lakes and varied scenery. Iskanderkul, while serene, is better for those seeking a relaxing experience.

• Costs:
  Outside private transport, Tajikistan is very affordable. Even in Khujand, meals with wine cost about $25–30 USD for two people at upscale restaurants.

Feel free to reach out with questions—I’d love to help others discover this hidden gem!