Embark on an extraordinary three-day expedition to one of Uzbekistan’s most poignant landscapes—the Aral Sea. Once a vast and vital water body straddling the borders of Uzbekistan and Kazakhstan, the Aral Sea has receded dramatically over the past fifty years, leaving behind a haunting and surreal desertscape. This tour is designed for those who seek to explore both the beauty and the environmental significance of this changing world.
Starting from Tashkent, the journey takes you to Nukus, a city known for its rich cultural and historical backdrop. Here, you’ll have the opportunity to visit the Savitsky Karakalpakstan Art Museum, renowned for its impressive collection of Russian avant-garde art and local artifacts. A stroll through Nukus offers glimpses of local landmarks, including the statue of the revered poet Berdakh.
The adventure continues as you travel to Muynak, once a bustling port now marked by the «Cemetery of Ships,» where abandoned vessels rest in the desert sands. The journey across the Ustyurt Plateau brings you closer to the Aral Sea, where you will witness the stark transformation of the land and the eerie beauty of the desert. A stay in a traditional yurt camp allows you to experience the serenity of the desert night and the vastness of the landscape.
On the final day, explore historical sites such as Kurgancha Kala and Kungrad, a former Silk Road trading hub. Stops at Lake Sudochie and the Mizdakhan memorial complex provide additional insights into the region’s rich history and dramatic changes. This tour offers a unique chance to reflect on environmental challenges while immersing yourself in the historical and cultural tapestry of Uzbekistan.
Begin your journey from Tashkent with a morning flight to Nukus, a key destination in your exploration of the Aral Sea. On arrival, you will be greeted and transferred to your hotel, where you can check in and settle into your accommodations around noon. Spend the remainder of the day at your leisure, discovering the cultural treasures of Nukus.
One of the highlights of your visit is the Savitsky Karakalpakstan Art Museum, renowned for its extensive collection of Russian avant-garde art, which is the second largest of its kind globally. The museum also showcases traditional Karakalpak applied arts. As the museum is undergoing renovations, be aware that some exhibitions may be temporarily unavailable.
Following your museum visit, take a leisurely walk through the city center. Admire the statue of the celebrated Karakalpak poet Berdakh, explore the striking architecture of Nukus City Hall, and enjoy a performance or simply admire the façade of the Drama Theatre. Return to your hotel for an overnight stay.
Start your day with breakfast before departing Nukus for Muynak, a journey that takes you through the vast expanse of the Kyzylkum Desert, covering approximately 150 kilometers in about 1.5 to 2 hours. Upon arrival in Muynak, visit the renowned «Cemetery of Ships,» a poignant reminder of the Aral Sea’s dramatic decline. Here, rusting vessels lie scattered across the sand, a stark contrast to their former role as bustling port ships.
Continue your exploration with a visit to the Local History Museum, if open, to gain further insight into the area’s past. Afterward, enjoy a lunch at a local guesthouse before continuing your journey. Travel across the Ustyurt Plateau, an expansive and rugged landscape, until you reach the Aral Sea in the late afternoon.
Check into a yurt camp situated near the sea, where you will spend the night. The camp offers a unique opportunity to experience traditional yurt living amidst the desert environment. Enjoy a camp-style dinner and spend the evening relaxing around a fire, taking in the serene beauty of the desert night. Overnight in the yurt.
Wake early to capture the stunning sunrise over the desert landscape. After breakfast, embark on a visit to the ancient settlement of Kurgancha Kala, a site dating back to the 13th century. Explore the remains of this historical site before traveling through the Kungrad district, a significant Silk Road trading hub of the past.
Make a photo stop at Lake Sudochie, a picturesque and reflective body of water that adds a serene touch to the desert environment. Enjoy a picnic lunch amidst the scenic backdrop of the lake.
On your return journey to Nukus, stop at several historical sites including the Mizdakhan memorial complex and the Gyaur-Kala Fortress. These locations offer a glimpse into the region’s rich past and architectural heritage. Arrive back in Nukus, where you will be transferred to the local airport for your departure, concluding this immersive and unforgettable tour.
| Number of Tourists | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Price per tourist * | $850 | $480 | $360 | $450 | $350 |
All transportation throughout the tour Guide for Aral Sea trip Entrance fees to the museums, mausoleums and other sights 2 nights hotel & yurt accommodation (shared double/twin room) Meals as per itinerary
Tour leader to accompany travellers for the whole period of the tour Round-trip tickets for flight Tashkent-Nukus-Tashkent Any Private Expenses Tips are not included, but would be appreciated Travel insurance
