While many of Uzbekistan’s tours highlight its bustling cities and grand historical sites, the Nurata Mountains and Aydarkul Lake Tour offers a refreshing escape into the country’s serene natural beauty. This three-day adventure invites you to experience the peaceful rhythm of rural life, far from the urban sprawl. The journey begins in the charming village of Nurata, where you’ll uncover the region’s rich cultural heritage and traditional way of life. Your overnight stay at the Safari Yurt Camp in the expansive Kyzyl Kum Desert offers a unique glimpse into nomadic traditions, complete with camel rides and starlit campfire dinners.
The tour continues with a visit to the tranquil Aydarkul Lake, nestled in the heart of the desert. Here, you’ll have the opportunity to engage in leisurely activities and enjoy the stunning landscapes. Immerse yourself in the local customs as you visit remote villages in the Nurata Mountains, witnessing traditional farming practices and artisanal crafts. This tour is a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural immersion, and historical exploration, offering a memorable contrast to the dynamic pace of Uzbekistan’s cities.
Begin your adventure with a morning departure from Bukhara, setting out on a scenic drive towards the Kyzyl Kum Desert. The journey covers approximately 230 kilometers and takes around 4 hours, providing ample opportunity to enjoy the changing landscapes. Along the way, you’ll make a stop at Gijduvan, renowned for its traditional pottery workshops, where you can observe skilled artisans crafting intricate pottery pieces.
Continue your journey to Nurata, a historic town notable for its ancient architectural and cultural heritage. Here, you will visit a local mosque that houses a holy spring, known for its rejuvenating properties. After exploring the town, proceed to the Safari Yurt Camp, situated in the heart of the Kyzyl Kum Desert. Upon arrival, check into your yurt accommodation and settle in.
In the afternoon, take part in a camel ride, a quintessential desert experience, and enjoy some free time to explore the surroundings. As evening approaches, gather around the campfire for a traditional Kazakh dinner accompanied by the soulful melodies of a local akin (folk singer). Spend the night in the yurt, embracing the tranquility of the desert under a star-studded sky.
Note: While meals are included, it is advisable to bring additional snacks, as there are no shops available near the yurts.
Start your day with a visit to Aydarkul Lake, a serene body of water surrounded by the desert. Spend some time at the lake, either enjoying its tranquil ambiance or engaging in optional activities.
Optional Activity 1: Take a camel ride through the desert to Aydarkul Lake, covering a distance of approximately 8.5 kilometers. This three-hour ride offers an immersive desert experience. Once at the lake, you can relax and have lunch amidst the beautiful scenery. This camel ride is available at an additional cost of $30 per person.
Optional Activity 2: Opt for a shorter camel ride to the nearby village of Dungalak. Here, participate in the traditional process of baking bread known as “non” and take a brief walk through the village to observe local life. Return to the camp afterward. This experience costs $20 per person.
In the afternoon, depart from the yurt camp and head towards one of the picturesque villages in the Nurata Mountains, such as Ashraf, Sentyab, or Yangi Hayot. These villages are located in a pristine mountain environment, away from urban development. Enjoy a tour around the village, taking in the lush orchards, fresh mountain air, and the vibrant local culture. Spend the night in a guesthouse, where you’ll experience traditional village hospitality and cuisine.
On your final day, immerse yourself in the daily life of the Nurata Mountains villagers. Discover the traditional methods of farming and house-building that have been passed down through generations. Women in the village cook over open fires, weave textiles, and bake bread, while men engage in farming and shepherding. Experience these practices firsthand and take part in local activities such as bird-watching, hiking, or donkey rides.
Optional Activity 1: Embark on a guided hike through the surrounding mountain area, where you can view ancient petroglyphs along the route. This hike is approximately 6-7 kilometers and takes 2-3 hours, with a guide available at an additional cost of $30.
Optional Activity 2: Enjoy a ride on a donkey, offering a unique perspective of the village and its landscapes. This activity also costs $30 and provides a gentle, immersive way to explore the area.
After a leisurely morning, depart from the village and journey back to Samarkand, covering approximately 220 kilometers in about 4 hours. Upon arrival in Samarkand, the tour concludes, marking the end of a memorable exploration of Uzbekistan’s natural beauty and cultural richness.
| Number of Tourists | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Price per tourist * | $500 | $300 | $250 | $250 | $220 |
All transportation throughout the tour Accommodation in the yurt camp and guesthouse Full board
Any Private Expenses Tips are not included, but would be appreciated Travel insurance
