Embark on an unforgettable 10-day journey through the heart of Central Asia, where ancient civilizations and modern marvels collide. This Uzbekistan-Turkmenistan Tour invites you to explore the historic crossroads of cultures, traversing majestic cities, architectural wonders, and vibrant traditions.
Begin in Tashkent, Uzbekistan’s bustling capital, where history meets contemporary life. From there, venture to Khiva, a perfectly preserved medieval town encased by fortress walls, where every alleyway tells a story of the past. Next, cross into Turkmenistan, where ancient meets modern in fascinating contrast. Marvel at Kunya-Urgench, a city whose historical influence once stretched to India, and immerse yourself in Ashgabat, famed for its dazzling white marble buildings and futuristic flair.
Delve into Turkmenistan’s rich Silk Road heritage with a visit to Mary and the nearby ruins of Merv, a UNESCO World Heritage site that once thrived as a key trading hub. As you return to Uzbekistan, step back in time in Bukhara, a city of stunning mosques, caravanserais, and palaces. Finally, complete your adventure in Samarkand, where the grandeur of Registan Square and the intricate tilework of ancient mausoleums await.
Throughout the journey, savor the distinctive flavors of Central Asian cuisine, witness master artisans at work, and walk in the footsteps of ancient caravans. From the timeless deserts to the glimmering modernity of Ashgabat, this tour weaves together the best of Uzbekistan and Turkmenistan into an experience like no other.
Don’t miss this extraordinary opportunity to uncover the treasures of the Silk Road. Book now and create memories to last a lifetime!
Welcome to Tashkent! Upon arrival, you will be greeted by your driver and transferred to your hotel for check-in, available from noon. Begin your journey with a guided tour of Uzbekistan’s vibrant capital, the largest city in Central Asia. Explore the Old City, home to the Khast-Imam Complex, where the legendary Quran of Caliph Uthman is preserved. Admire landmarks like the Barak-Khan Madrasah, Tillya Sheykh Mosque, and the Abu Bakr Kaffal Shashi Mausoleum, alongside the Islamic Institute of Imam al-Bukhari. Stroll through the bustling Chorsu Bazaar, followed by a memorable metro ride to the city center. Visit the Applied Arts Museum, Navoi Theater, and conclude at Amir Timur Square. Overnight stay in Tashkent.
Duration of sightseeing: 4-5 hours
Catch an early flight to Urgench (1h 40min), followed by a scenic drive to Khiva (30 km, 35 min). Dive into history with a walking tour of Itchan-Kala, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Wander through architectural gems like the Mukhammad Aminkhan Madrasah, Mukhammad Rakhimkhan Madrasah, Kalta-Minor Minaret, Juma Mosque, Tash-Khovli Palace, and Pakhlavan Makhmud Mausoleum. End your day with the imposing Kunya-Ark Citadel and the soaring Islam-Khoja Minaret. Enjoy free time in this enchanting city before retiring to your hotel.
Duration of sightseeing: 5 hours
Cross the border into Turkmenistan and explore the ancient city of Kunya-Urgench, a UNESCO site renowned for its historic architecture. Highlights include the Mausoleum of Sultan Tekesh, Kutlug-Timur Minaret, and the Turabek-Khanum Mausoleum. Travel to Dashoguz for your flight to Ashgabat, the modern and eclectic capital of Turkmenistan. Overnight in Ashgabat.
Embark on a city tour of Ashgabat, a city celebrated for its Guinness World Record-holding white marble buildings. Visit the Old Nisa Archaeological Site (UNESCO), the stunning Spiritual Mosque, the National Museum of History, and monuments like the Neutrality Monument, Presidential Square, and Independence Park. Marvel at the Ertugrul Gazi Mosque and stop by the Akhalteke Horse Stables. Conclude with a visit to the Lenin Monument before your evening flight to Mary. Overnight in Mary.
Duration of sightseeing: 6 hours
After breakfast, drive to Merv (40 km, 30 min), an ancient Silk Road city. Explore its UNESCO-listed ruins, including the Sultan Sanjar Mausoleum, Large and Small Gyz Gala, Erk Gala, Gyaur Gala, and Keshk Fortress. Cross the Turkmenistan-Uzbekistan border (260 km, 4h 30min), where your guide will assist with customs. Travel to Bukhara (100 km, 1h 30min) for an overnight stay.
Duration of sightseeing: 4-5 hours
Discover the treasures of Old Bukhara on a guided walking tour. Visit the Lyabi-Khauz Complex, Magoki-Attori Mosque, Chor-Minor Madrasah, bustling trade domes, Kalyan Mosque, and the majestic Kalyan Minaret. Admire the Miri-Arab Madrasah, Ulugbek Madrasah, Abdulazizkhan Madrasah, Ark Fortress, Bolo-Khauz Mosque, and the Samani Mausoleum. Overnight in Bukhara.
Duration of sightseeing: 6-7 hours
Begin with visits to the Sitorai Mokhi-Khosa, the summer residence of Bukhara’s last emir, followed by the Bakhouddin Naqshbandi Mausoleum and Chor-Bakr Necropolis. In the afternoon, depart for Samarkand (280 km, 4h), with a stop at the 11th-century Rabat-i-Malik Caravanserai. Check into your hotel in Samarkand for the night.
Duration of sightseeing: 2-3 hours
Explore the iconic landmarks of Samarkand, starting with Registan Square, the ruins of Bibi-Khanum Mosque, and the bustling Siab Bazaar. Visit the Ulugbek Observatory, Shakhi-Zinda Necropolis, and the impressive Gur-Emir Mausoleum, resting place of Amir Timur. Overnight in Samarkand.
Duration of sightseeing: 6-7 hours
Continue sightseeing with visits to the Afrasiab Museum and Saint Daniel’s Tomb. Head to Konigil village to witness traditional mulberry paper-making techniques. After some free time, transfer to the train station for a high-speed journey on the Afrosiyob train to Tashkent (300 km). Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel for the night.
Duration of sightseeing: 3-4 hours
Check out by noon and enjoy free time for any last-minute explorations or shopping before transferring to Tashkent International Airport for your departure. This concludes your incredible 10-day journey across Uzbekistan and Turkmenistan.
| Number of Tourists | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economy* (per tourist) | $3700 | $2400 | $2150 | $1900 | $1700 |
| Comfort** (per tourist) | $3900 | $2550 | $2250 | $2050 | $1850 |
* — based on 3* hotel accommodation / ** — based on 4* hotel accommodation /
All transportation throughout the tour Sightseeing tour programme with local guides Entrance fees to the museums, mausoleums and other sights Accommodation (shared double/twin room) Economy class tickets for flights Tashkent-Urgench, Dashoguz-Ashgabat-Mary Ticket for train Samarkand-Tashkent Visa support for Uzbekistan tourist visa and Turkmenistan tourist visa
Any Private Expenses Tips are not included, but would be appreciated Travel insurance Consular fees for tourist visa and associated expenses Full board (lunches and dinners) Tour leader to accompany the travellers for the whole period of the tour International flight tickets before and after the tour
This tour was a fascinating journey through history and culture. The detailed exploration of Khiva’s preserved old town and the atmospheric ruins of Merv transported me back in time, while Ashgabat’s modern architecture was equally mesmerizing. The guides were exceptional, sharing captivating stories and ensuring we didn’t miss any hidden gems. Shahina Travel’s attention to detail stood out—everything was perfectly timed, from our flights to the high-speed train to Tashkent. I also loved the culinary highlights, especially at local bazaars where we tasted authentic Central Asian flavors. It was a well-rounded tour that balanced history, culture, and comfort. A must for any traveler!
This 10-day Uzbekistan-Turkmenistan tour exceeded all my expectations. From the intricate architecture of Samarkand’s Registan Square to the surreal white marble city of Ashgabat, every day brought something extraordinary. The blend of ancient ruins like Merv and modern marvels like the Monument of Neutrality showcased the region’s rich history and rapid development. Special thanks to Shahina Travel for organizing everything so smoothly; their knowledgeable guides and seamless transportation made the experience stress-free. The visits to local bazaars and the hands-on mulberry paper-making workshop added a unique cultural touch. I highly recommend this tour to anyone eager to explore Central Asia’s treasures.