Hey fellow travelers! I just returned from an incredible solo trip to Uzbekistan, and I can’t wait to share my experiences with you all. I spent eight days exploring this beautiful country, and it was definitely one of the highlights of my travels. Here’s a detailed report of my journey, that I hope will help you plan your own adventure.
First things first—if you’re a U.S. citizen, make sure to apply for your visa well in advance. I submitted my application almost three weeks before my trip, and it took the full three weeks to get my visa. You can apply up to 90 days ahead, so don’t leave it until the last minute!
I booked my train tickets 59 days in advance, especially for the Bukhara to Tashkent route, which sells out fast. The trains are super comfortable and efficient, though they do have a tendency to leave 10-20 minutes later than scheduled. For other transport needs, I relied on Yandex, which was incredibly affordable and convenient. I flew into Tashkent from Bishkek and out to Batumi with Uzbekistan Airways, and I was quite pleased with the service, flights, and prices.
While the food in Uzbekistan is better than what I experienced in Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan, it’s not the primary reason to visit. In Samarkand, I enjoyed meals at Shokhrukh Nur, Boulevard, and Dostana. For coffee, head to the gelato kiosk near Registan Square. In Bukhara, Zaytoon offers delicious Lebanese food, while Chalet was decent but nothing to write home about. Magic Carpet has the best coffee, and I found Ayvon to be average with subpar service despite a 20% service fee.
Samarkand was my favorite city. The monuments are more spread out, allowing for genuine interactions with locals. I visited Registan Square at 8 AM one morning and had the place almost to myself—just one other family was there! The parks surrounding the square are perfect for relaxing and meeting local families. Shah-i-Zinda was serene during sunset and early morning visits. I also took a tips-based walking tour with Farrazah on GuruWalks, which was excellent. Don’t miss the 1+1 Oyoq Hammomi Markazi for a fantastic massage after all the sightseeing—just remember to book ahead!
Shopping at the local market was a treat; prices were fair, and the quality was impressive.
Bukhara is stunning but can be quite crowded due to the concentration of sites. I found that 6 PM was the best time to explore, as the light was beautiful, and the crowds thinned out. The Bolo Hauz mosque looks magical reflected in the water about 40 minutes after sunrise. I also enjoyed a tips-based guru walk here and found a local guide who was fantastic. Be sure to check out Art Feruz in the dome near the Ikat gallery—his artwork is breathtaking, and I’m so glad I bought a piece, despite the hassle of carrying it around.
I left Samarkand late one afternoon to cross into Tajikistan. The Yandex ride to the border was about $11, but be prepared for a long wait at passport control—only one person was working when I left Uzbekistan. On the Tajik side, I shared a taxi to Panjakent for 30,000 Uzbek SOM. I stayed at the SUGD Hotel, where the owner was incredibly hospitable, and the rooms were basic yet clean. He arranged a friendly driver for a trip to the stunning Seven Lakes area of the Fann Mountains, which was a highlight of my trip.
After exploring the breathtaking landscapes of the Fann Mountains, I returned to the border for my trip back to Uzbekistan. The border crossing was chaotic once again, with long lines and only a couple of staff members at passport control. I was grateful to have shared a ride back to Samarkand, which cost about 250,000 SOM when split with fellow travelers. Despite the hassle, the detour was absolutely worth it for the stunning scenery and the unique experience of visiting Tajikistan.
Uzbekistan is truly a treasure trove of culture, history, and stunning landscapes. From the majestic architecture of Samarkand to the vibrant bazaars of Bukhara, this country has so much to offer. The warmth and friendliness of the locals made my solo journey even more memorable, and I felt completely safe throughout my travels.
If you’re considering a trip to Uzbekistan, I highly recommend it! Whether you’re a solo traveler or exploring with friends, you’ll find something special at every turn. Be sure to take your time, engage with the locals, and immerse yourself in the rich culture. If you have any questions or need more tips, feel free to ask! Happy travels, everyone!