Embark on a captivating 12-day journey through the heart of Central Asia with our Uzbekistan-Kazakhstan 12-Day Tour. This tour offers a perfect mix of historical exploration and natural beauty, taking you from the ancient cities of Khiva, Bukhara, and Samarkand to the vibrant modern centers of Tashkent and Almaty. Wander through the centuries-old streets of Khiva, where the past whispers through the city’s well-preserved architecture, and visit Bukhara, a UNESCO World Heritage site full of breathtaking mosques and madrasas. In Samarkand, be awestruck by the grandeur of Registan Square and the tomb of the great conqueror, Tamerlane.
Your journey doesn’t stop there. Explore Tashkent’s cultural treasures, including the famous Khast-Imam Complex, and head to Kazakhstan for stunning outdoor adventures. Experience the tranquility of Issyk Lake, surrounded by the majestic Tian Shan mountains, and hike the awe-inspiring Charyn Canyon, often called the Grand Canyon’s twin.
This thoughtfully curated itinerary is ideal for those who want to delve deep into the history and culture of Central Asia while also embracing the natural wonders that make this region so unique. Let Shahina Travel guide you on an unforgettable adventure across Uzbekistan and Kazakhstan. Join us and create memories to last a lifetime!
Welcome to Tashkent, the vibrant capital of Uzbekistan. Upon arrival, our driver will greet you at the airport and take you to your hotel for check-in. After a relaxing break, your guide will meet you and you’ll embark on an exciting sightseeing tour of Tashkent, the largest city in Central Asia. Begin with a visit to the historic Khast-Imam Complex in the Old City, home to the famous Quran of Caliph Uthman, one of the oldest surviving Qurans in the world. At the complex, you’ll explore Barak-Khan Madrasah, the Tillya Sheykh Mosque, the Saint Abu Bakr Kaffal Shashi Mausoleum, and the Islamic Institute of Imam al-Bukhari. Afterward, stroll through the bustling Chorsu Bazaar for a taste of local life. Take a ride on the Tashkent Metro to reach the city center, where you’ll visit the Applied Arts Museum and walk past the Navoi Theater to Amir Timur Square. Enjoy the lively atmosphere of Tashkent before returning to your hotel for the night.
Duration of sightseeing: 5-6 hours
After breakfast, you will transfer to the airport for your flight to Urgench, located about 1.5 hours from Tashkent. Upon arrival, take a short drive to the historical city of Khiva, where you will check into your hotel. Later, embark on a guided walking tour of the UNESCO World Heritage site, Itchan Kala Fortress. Explore the iconic Mukhammad Amin Khan Madrasah, the striking Kalta Minor Minaret, and the peaceful Juma Mosque. Continue your tour by visiting Tosh-Khovli Palace, Pakhlavan Makhmud Mausoleum, and the Minaret of Islom-Khoja. Spend the rest of the afternoon at leisure.
Duration of sightseeing: 5 hours
This morning, you will depart Khiva and drive to Bukhara, which takes about 7-8 hours through the vast Kyzylkum Desert, once an important route on the Great Silk Road. Along the way, stop to admire the views of the Amudarya River and the surrounding desert landscape. After reaching Bukhara late in the afternoon, check into your hotel and enjoy the evening at leisure.
Note: Due to limited dining options along the route, we recommend bringing a packed lunch. Some sections of the road are under construction.
Today, explore Bukhara’s charming Old City with your guide. Visit the historic Lyabi Hauz Ensemble, the beautifully preserved Chor-Minor Madrasah, and the ancient Kalyan Minaret. Marvel at the grandeur of the Kalyan Mosque and the Miri-Arab Madrasah. Visit the Ark Fortress, the majestic Bolo-Khauz Mosque, and the tombs of Ismail Samani and Chashma-Ayub. These sites offer a deep insight into the cultural and architectural richness of Bukhara.
Duration of sightseeing: 6-7 hours
Continue your exploration of Bukhara by visiting the Sitorai Mokhi-Khosa, the summer residence of Bukhara’s last emir. Then, visit the Mausoleum of Bakhouddin Naqshbandi, an important spiritual site. Afterward, drive to Samarkand (approximately 4 hours), stopping along the way at the 11th-century Caravanserai Rabat Malik. Upon arrival in Samarkand, check into your hotel. Enjoy the evening at leisure.
Duration of sightseeing: 2-3 hours
After breakfast, meet your guide and begin your Samarkand city tour. Start with the breathtaking Registan Square, home to three magnificent madrasahs. Explore the remains of the Bibi Khanum Mosque and wander through the bustling Siab Bazaar. Visit the Ulugbek Observatory, a key scientific landmark, and the Shakhi-Zinda Necropolis, where you’ll see a stunning array of mausoleums. End your tour at the Gur Emir Mausoleum, the final resting place of the great Tamerlane. Return to the hotel for an overnight stay.
Duration of sightseeing: 6-7 hours
After checking out of your hotel, begin your day with visits to the Afrasiab Museum and the Tomb of Saint Daniel. Continue to the village of Konigil, where you’ll see the traditional process of mulberry paper production. Enjoy some free time with a car and driver at your disposal. In the late afternoon, transfer to the railway station for your return journey to Tashkent on the high-speed Afrosiyob train (2 hours 10 minutes). Upon arrival in Tashkent, transfer to your hotel for check-in and an overnight stay.
Duration of sightseeing: 3-4 hours
After breakfast, transfer to Tashkent International Airport for your flight to Almaty. Upon arrival in Almaty, you’ll be transferred to your hotel. The remainder of the day is free for you to explore the city or relax at your leisure.
Overnight in Almaty
Meet your guide in the hotel lobby and begin your city sightseeing tour. Visit Panfilov Park, home to the stunning Zenkov Cathedral, one of the tallest wooden structures in the world. Then, head to the Central State Museum (closed on Tuesdays) to explore Kazakhstan’s rich history. Take a stroll around Republic Square, and in the afternoon, drive to Chimbulak, a famous ski resort in the Tian Shan Mountains. Ride the cable car for panoramic views of the snow-capped peaks. End the day with a visit to the Sunkar Falcon Farm, where you can witness the impressive hunting skills of trained falcons.
Duration of sightseeing: 6-7 hours
Your guide will meet you at the hotel for a scenic drive to Charyn Canyon, located 220 km east of Almaty (approximately 3-4 hours). This stunning natural wonder is often called the «Grand Canyon of Kazakhstan.» As you explore the canyon, marvel at the vibrant colors of the cliffs and take in views of the dramatic Castle Valley and ash-tree groves. Enjoy a picnic in this awe-inspiring setting before hiking along the canyon’s paths, soaking in its incredible landscapes. Afterward, return to Almaty for the night.
Duration of sightseeing: 9-10 hours
Travel to Issyk Lake, where you will visit the Historical and Cultural Museum-Reserve “ISSYK,” home to fascinating exhibits from the Saka period, including golden artifacts and the famous Golden Man. Afterward, continue to Turgen Gorge to explore its beautiful waterfalls. Return to Almaty in the evening for your overnight stay.
Duration of sightseeing: 9-10 hours
After checking out of your hotel, enjoy some free time for last-minute shopping or sightseeing. You will be transferred to Almaty International Airport for your departure.
End of tour
Number of Tourists | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Economy* (per tourist) | $5000 | $2950 | $2500 | $2250 | $2000 |
Comfort** (per tourist) | $5600 | $3300 | $2850 | $2600 | $2350 |
* — based on 3* hotel accommodation / ** — based on 4* hotel accommodation /
All transportation throughout the tour Sightseeing tour program with English speaking guide Entrance fees to the museums, mausoleums and other sights Accommodation (shared double/twin room) Ticket for train Samarkand-Tashkent Economy class ticket for flights: Tashkent-Urgench, Tashkent-Almaty Meals as per itinerary
Any Private Expenses Tips are not included, but would be appreciated Travel insurance Consular fees for tourist visa Full board