Embark on an unforgettable journey through the heart of Central Asia with the 11-day Uzbekistan-Turkmenistan Tour, where history, culture, and adventure converge. Discover the vibrant blend of ancient and modern as you explore two countries that were once the crossroads of the legendary Silk Road.
Start in Tashkent, Uzbekistan’s bustling capital, where contemporary skyscrapers meet historical landmarks. Wander the medieval streets of Khiva, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and be transported back in time with its traditional architecture and rich heritage. Transition to Turkmenistan’s Karakum Desert, where the awe-inspiring Darvaza Gas Crater, also known as the “Door to Hell,” illuminates the night sky.
Dive deep into history at the ancient ruins of Kunya-Urgench and Merv, before marveling at the grandeur of Ashgabat, a city adorned with glistening white marble, holding the Guinness World Record for its architectural elegance. Back in Uzbekistan, explore the enchanting cities of Samarkand and Bukhara, famed for their breathtaking minarets, turquoise domes, and bustling bazaars.
With warm hospitality, delectable cuisine, and meticulously curated experiences, this tour offers more than just sightseeing—it’s a journey through time, culture, and landscapes. Whether you’re captivated by historical monuments, intrigued by desert adventures, or drawn to vibrant cities, this tour promises memories that will last a lifetime.
Book your spot today and let Central Asia’s magic leave an indelible mark on your heart!
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
After breakfast, transfer to the railway station to board the high-speed Afrosiyob train to Samarkand (300 km, 2 hours). Upon arrival, your guide will lead you on a city tour of Samarkand, starting at the iconic 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 sightseeing, enjoy free time with a car and driver at your disposal for personal exploration. Overnight at the hotel.
In the morning, depart Samarkand for Bukhara (280 km, 4 hours). En route, stop at the historic Rabat-i-Malik Caravanserai. Upon arrival in Bukhara, check into your hotel and begin exploring the UNESCO-listed Old Bukhara, which includes 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. Overnight in Bukhara.
Duration of sightseeing: 3-4 hours
Dive deeper into Bukhara’s rich history with visits to the Ark Fortress, Bolo-Khauz Mosque, and the Samani dynasty and Chashma-Ayub mausoleums.
Explore the Sitorai Mokhi-Khosa, the summer residence of Bukhara’s last emir, followed by the Bakhouddin Naqshbandi Mausoleum, a revered pilgrimage site. Enjoy free time in the afternoon.
Duration of sightseeing: 5-6 hours
Embark on a long but scenic drive through the Kyzyl Kum Desert to reach Khiva (480 km, 7-8 hours). Along the way, take in views of the vast desert and the Amu Darya River. Upon arrival, check into your hotel and rest. A packed lunch is recommended for this journey, as roadside dining options are limited. Overnight at the hotel.
Step into history with a visit to the 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
Travel to the Shavat-Dashoguz border (60 km, 1 hour). After customs formalities, meet your Turkmenistan guide and continue to the Darvaza Gas Crater in the Karakum Desert (270 km, 4 hours). Set up camp and enjoy a delicious fire-cooked dinner under the starry sky near the glowing “Door to Hell.” Overnight in tents.
After a camp-style breakfast, journey to Ashgabat (280 km, 4 hours). Check into your hotel and start exploring Turkmenistan’s white-marble capital. Visit Old Nisa, a UNESCO World Heritage site, the Spiritual Mosque, National Museum of History, Monument of Neutrality, Presidential Square, and Ertugrul Gazi Mosque. End the day at Akhalteke horse stables and the Lenin Monument. Overnight at the hotel.
Take a morning flight to Mary and drive to the ancient city of Merv (40 km). Explore its historical park, featuring the Sultan Sanjar Mausoleum, Gyz Gala, Erk Gala, Keshk Fortress, and more. Return to Mary to visit the History Museum of Merv Region before flying back to Ashgabat. Overnight at the hotel.
Check out by noon and enjoy free time until your transfer to Ashgabat International Airport. Conclude your 11-day Uzbekistan-Turkmenistan adventure with memories of extraordinary cultural heritage and breathtaking landscapes.
| Number of Tourists | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economy* (per tourist) | $4000 | $2500 | $2300 | $2000 | $1800 |
| Comfort** (per tourist) | $4200 | $2650 | $2400 | $2150 | $1950 |
* — 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 Ashgabat-Mary-Ashgabat Ticket for train Tashkent-Samarkand 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
The Uzbekistan-Turkmenistan tour was simply amazing! Shahina Travel did an exceptional job in making our journey smooth and memorable. From the ancient cities of Samarkand and Bukhara, rich in history, to the awe-inspiring Darvaza Gas Crater, every stop was worth it. The cultural immersion, especially in the traditional paper-making in Samarkand, was a highlight. Our guide was very accommodating and shared so much knowledge about the Silk Road’s impact on the region. The mix of natural beauty and historical sites left me wanting more! Ashgabat’s modern grandeur and Merv’s ancient ruins were truly special. I’m grateful to Shahina Travel for creating such an unforgettable itinerary. If you want a tour of Central Asia, this is it!
Our Uzbekistan-Turkmenistan tour was an unforgettable adventure! From the stunning Registan Square in Samarkand to the magnificent white marble buildings of Ashgabat, every destination was a visual treat. Khiva’s ancient architecture and the mysterious Darvaza Gas Crater left us in awe. A special mention to Shahina Travel for organizing everything flawlessly. The guide was knowledgeable, and the logistics were seamless, ensuring we never missed a moment of the rich history and culture of both countries. We also loved the high-speed train from Tashkent to Samarkand – a very comfortable and scenic journey. I highly recommend this tour to anyone interested in discovering Central Asia’s treasures. Thank you for an incredible experience!